yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
If you want GAPPS on an HDX the only safe option IMO is to install Safestrap v4 and a different rom (Nexus v4 or CM11). Google services don't play nice with FireOS. You can get them to work....for awhile...but conflicts inevitable arise leading to more troubleshooting, mitigation and risk. You already experienced a 'soft' brick and luckily recovered. Next one might not be recoverable.

For simplicity I skipped over more advanced options which apply to only a small number of devices. If you are running any version of FireOS above xx.3.2.6 you can not unlock the bootloader and must use Safestrap v4 to gain access to other (excellent) roms.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] KyleCreel123:
Alright, I followed all instructions and downgraded. 13.3.2.8 works fine, so then I updated (using software update) like this post says to get to 4.5.2, and guess what? The fire updated rebooted and now the device will not even turn on. Screen is black. I have ADB enabled if that helps any. Computer detects the device, I can hear a ding when I attach to computer but the device looks off. Any help? BTW I downgraded from 4.5.5. I was planning out using a ROM instead of installing Google apps with Fire OS
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
Did you disable wifi or engage airplane mode? If your device received an OTA (over the air) update either pushed or by your own hand it is permanently bricked with NO chance of recovery.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] KyleCreel123:
It was connected to wifi to upgrade to 4.5.2, it proceeded to download the update then restart. Now nothing. Maybe this method no longer works, and i'm the unlucky one to experience it. Guess i'm ****ed. Should have gotten a nexus 7. I did this same exact method before and it worked fine. I don't see how it screwed up though.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
You misunderstood the procedure. You must not make a network connection while on 3.2.8. The 4.5.2 image file obtained from here (also linked in the OP) is manually copied to the root of sdcard ("internal storage") which initiates the upgrade. Receiving an update from Amazon is a death sentence as your device contained a custom version of FireOS (3.2.8 rollback) that was never designed to receive OTAs. Sorry for your loss.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] KyleCreel123:
Damn that sucks
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] presumi:
Hi Lampylamp, can you let me know how to clear the data from the settings app? I'm getting the same issue, but can't figure out how to do this :)

[edit] I found out how to do this and managed to downgrade to 3.2.8, thanks for the suggestion!

---------- Post added at 07:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:29 PM ----------

Hi,

Can anyone help me?

I managed to downgrade to 3.2.8 successfully. I downloaded the 4.5.2 bin file from the link from OP and placed in the Internal Storage on the kindle. I also disabled wifi to prevent OTA updates.

I can't upgrade by going to System Updates with the 4.5.2 saved in Internal Storage. There is no option to upgrade available. Is there anything you can suggest to allo wme to upgrade to 4.5.2?

Thanks in advance :)

[edit] I keep answering my own questions, maybe I should be a bit more patient!

The update option showed up after waiting for 15 minutes, not sure why it didn't show up straight away, but got to 4.5.2 now :)
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] alberto1414:
stay at 3.2.8 with gapps or custom rom

Hi guys.

I got a hdx 7 (3rd gen) on 4.5.5

I have been reading and many people have problems on 4.5.2 with gapps, setupwizard, some bricks.

Why not simple stay at 3.2.8 with gapps, is it posible?

or from 3.2.8 install some rom, like nexus's rom?

if one of this is posible, please share a link to me.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
You can NOT use the latest ROMs like CM11 or Nexus v4 with Safestrap v3.7x on Fire OS 3.2.8. They're either Safestrap v4 compatible (Safestrap v4 requires rooted 4.5.2), or require an unlocked bootloader. For CM12 or SlimLP an unlocked bootloader is mandatory!

Note that the bootloader can be unlocked up to 3.2.3.2 only, and due to rollback protection by Amazon you can NOT downgrade below 3.2.8!

The most important thing during downgrade to 3.2.8 and the update to 4.5.2 then is keep WLAN off/flight mode active, because getting updated by Amazon via OTA will brick the HDX!

[MENTION=5488402]Davey126[/MENTION] gave a good overview here, so read all the info and ask before you brick your HDX! If you don't follow the procedure 100% correctly, you will brick your HDX! [MENTION=6915090]tropicallazerbeams[/MENTION] also linked to YouTube videos about Safestrap usage and installation of custom ROMs. Regarding the ROMs, read the installation requirements carefully!
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] alberto1414:
got it! I had already read that, thanks anyway for clarify.

Im going to do that.

Just one more question. everyone say no factory reset on stock amazon, and no wipe on safetrap.

What kind of reset or how to clean the device. can be done when being on 4.5.2 rooted, or 4.5.2 ---> safestrap ---> custom rom?
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
The stock recovery will mess up the system if it's rooted and Safestrap is installed. So if you have Safestrap installed, leave the stock recovery alone!

Rergarding wiping it's important to understand the requirements. Whenever it says factory reset, it's the standard wipe in Safestrap which erases Data, Cache and Dalvik only. All other partitions will be untoched.

While it is lethal to wipe System in Safestrap v3.7x, [MENTION=5749760]ggow[/MENTION] gave Safestrap v4 a build-in System-wipe-protection to avoid more bricked devices. This means you still should NOT go into advanced wipe menu if a factory reset is required.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] alberto1414:
thanks for your soon replies.

Im did 3.2.8 and upgrade to 4.5.2 on airplane mode.

now I have to copy the cve file and install es file explorer.

how do I install es file without internet? or is it safe now to connect to wifi. (i'm on 4.5.2 now)
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
You must root with Kingroot (requires a short WLAN connection!) and disable OTA by renaming the OTA.apk first!

Install Minimal ADB and Fastboot, you can install apps via adb then:

adb install app.apk (with app.apk being the file name of the app you want to install). Needs USB debugging to be enabled in Fire OS and the HDX to be connected by USB of course.

You must do this via a command line (i.e. DOS box in Windows), change dir to the adb directory (enter cd\adb), copy the apks you want to install into the adb directory, and then enter the command above for each app.

Kingroot should be installed this way, so the internet connection it requires will be as short as possible. If you get updated by Amazon you will have to do the whole procedure (down- and upgrade) again - all the risks included!
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] alberto1414:
thank you so much, I did ABD and now I have root acces, going to disable OTA. and that's it.

what about the setupwizard error with gapps? can I prevent it before happening?

______________________Edit!__________

things didnt work out ok. I got 4.5.2 rooted. no Gapps.

and now other apps stoped working. apps like netflix.

I want to go back to 4.5.5, is this ok:

1. unroot from SU.

2.Rename the DeviceSoftwareUpdate apk. to recieve OTA or should I download and copy the os to the internal storage?
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
File d/l order.

Hi, I am new so please excuse me for lack of terminology. When rooting Kindle Fire HDX 64 8.9in. Fire OS 4.5.5. Need I download all file listed before rollback? Also, and extremely important, which file is the rollback file 3.2.8 and 4.5.2?
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] :
Bricked through OTA update

Totally hard bricked my HDX 7 through not disabling wifi (yes it was a stupid mistake to make), is there any means to get this rectified through USB debugging etc? ADB was not enabled by the time the update came through which bricked the HDX. My PC registers the device but does not pair up, I get a failed notification.

Any pointers would be greatly appreciated as this stage, thanks.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
Unfortunately, there is no known recovery for this type of brick. The failure appears to be at a level that is unreachable via the limited tools and interfaces available on a HDX with a locked bootloader. If under warranty you may be able to arrange an exchange with Amazon.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] :
Thanks for the response

Ok well that sucks, I will do my best to get a replacement. I only wish I had started reading this thread from back to front as I didn't pick up on the fact that the update to 4.5.2 is supposed to happen via local files rather than ota.

Thanks for the info.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] dragoncurt:
Hi I can't seem to update it. I am on 4.5.5
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
Insufficient information to compose a meaningful response. Read through the thread; the answer you need (whatever that might be) has probably been posted multiple times.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] dragoncurt:
oh okay I will look. I mean as I have downloaded the file to my Kindle hdx 7" but when I tap update on the fire it says it is going to verify it and then it shows up as no update. Nothing. Wondering what I've done wrong.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
File need to be placed in 'internal storage' (host designation) or the root of sdcard (internal perspective). Some people claim performing 'factory reset' from the native recovery menu resolved the problem you describe This one of the few times a native factory reset is actually helpful. To access this menu turn your device off and then simultaneously press the power button + vol-up. Release vol-up when the screen illuminates followed by the power button. Note you will loose all personal data. After the device reinitializes try the rollback again.

Important: Keep airplane mode engaged at all times - especially after rolling back to 3.2.8. If your device connects to Amazon servers it will immediately accept an OTA update that will brick the device with absolutely no chance of recovery.

Warning: Kindles are not your typical android devices. They are exceptionally easy to brick and equally difficult to recover (in most cases recovery is not possible). If you are not familiar with the procedures and 'gotchas' associated with rollbacks STOP NOW and educate yourself by reading through the HDX forums.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] dragoncurt:
Hi. Thank you for the reply and it worked. Thanks for also the info. I had clicked forget the info of my wifi and then done it and still worked. Thanks.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] dragoncurt:
Hi I am now on 4.5.2. But I would now like to root it so I can disable the amazon updates and also install a custom rom . Could you tell me what app I should use because I don't think this one works for me. (http://goo.gl/JG2OqI)
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] EncryptedCurse:
Did you enable mock locations and press the button a few times?

Anyways, the alternative route is KingRoot.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
Out of the box, root before upgrade

Hi there, I receive a replacement Kindle Fire HDX 64 10.9 inch tablet. I have not allowed it to upgrade therefore if has the 14.3.2.1 OS. How do I root the device without being able to connect to the internet? Can ne one help me. I really want a rooted Kindle and have been reading so many posts that I am completely confused. I've never done root before and I don't want to get it wrong. I know that it must be backed up first but, I don't even know how to go about doing that. The Kindle I am guessing right now has the OS 4.5.5. From everything I've read, it is very complicated to root that version of Fire. If there is anyone who can guide me, or point me in the right direction, please, I would be eternally grateful. Thanks. Oh, BTW, the Kindle is 3rd generation.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
Root and disable OTA with HDX Toolkit.

Install TWRP via adb (see below, or Flashify), flash the 3.2.3.2 bootloader update via TWRP, unlock the bootloader (info here and here, probably requires these drivers if you use Windows, and you should install Minimal ADB and Fastboot), then use ROM of your choice, i.e. either Nexus v4, CM11, CM12 or SlimLP - note you can NOT use any of those with Safestrap v3.7x!

Also note that you should NOT update, once you are on a Fire OS version 3.2.8 or above you can NOT downgrade and unlock the bootloader anymore, due to rollback protection by Amazon. Attempting to downgrade below 3.2.8 will brick the HDX!

Any questions ask first, i.e. before you brick your HDX! ;)
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
Backup and pc link

Thank you for the quick response. I have never rooted any device. The procedure for rooting I assume is that I connect my kindle to my pc. Once I do that, then I begin the download and installation of the required elements. I.e.: boot loader. Is this correct? I am beginning to think that this is over my head and in saying that I am in serious jeopardy of bricking my device. I appreciate the assistance that you provided but, I do not understand the procedure enough to risk the possible outcome. I would be better served finding someone who know how to do this already. Again, thanks for trying.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
Thanks but I think that this over my head.

I tried to reply before but, I deleted all this code first and I don't see my reply so I will try it this way. I appreciate your respons but, I just don't understand all of these steps and from where I should do it. From a pc? Is the not a simpler way? A mod kit? I'm sorry about this but I've never done this before and am extremely concerned that I will end up with a bricked device. Again, thank you. I will keep searching or try to find someone that I know who has done this before
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
You must enable USB debugging in Fire OS' device options, the HDX Toolkit will open a DOS box with pretty clear points, you should use the ADB driver, Towelroot and OTA disable. In case you missed it: you must download all files for Apollo, which is the 8.9" HDX you have (Thor is the 7" HDX). Also install Minimal ADB and Fastboot, you need it for TWRP installation and unlocking the bootloader.

The TWRP installation can be done via adb, which is basically a DOS box where you change dir to your adb Directory (to keep the path short install to c:\adb, so you just enter cd\adb in the DOS box window). Then copy the TWRP Apollo image to the root of the sdcard, which is the directory you will see in Explorer after you opened the HDX in Explorer (which must have USB connection of course), i.e. don't open any other directory.

Then enter the commands:

adb shell

su

dd if=/sdcard/signed-apollo-twrp-2870.img of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/recovery

If you want to use e.g. Flashify just be sure to flash it to the recovery partition. ;)

You'll have a real recovery then, not the bad Amazon stock recovery.

To access TWRP with the HDX powered off you press and hold volume up, then press and hold the power button, release both when the grey Kindle Fire logo appears on screen.

Then download the 3.2.3.2 bootloader update for your Apollo, copy it to the root of the sdcard again, open TWRP and install it (should be kinda straight forward in TWRP, if you've questions ask first, as always when you're unsure).

The bootloader unlock procedure is a bit tricky, but you can't mess up anything, so if you don't get to the point how to use Python, GMPY2 & the Python script, just execute the adb commands to get your ID and serial. I'll create the unlock file for you then. But actual unlocking is a task you'll have to do yourself.

This must be done before you can use any custom ROM, also be sure to create a backup in TWRP and copy it to your PC before you flash any ROM!
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
Thanks, that makes sense to me now. Going to wait until tomorrow before I attempt this but, feel very confident that I will have a rooted kindle once I complete it. I appreciate the simple instructions.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
Can I install especially explorer from my pc

Hi again. The Kindle Fire DX that I am referring to as the device I want to root is a replacement kindle. Therefore it has not Benn turned on. It has not been connected to the internet or upgraded. How would I intstallnes explorer without internet connection? Connecting to the internet would sanctuary turned that kindle on and as you know, it would immediately update thereby taking away the ability to root. I am so sorry to continue asking what are probably very simple questions n answers. So, 1: I need to backup the current OS. Yes/no? Download all files mentioned in your instructions to my pc. Install ES explorer from the pc. ( Is that even possible?) Then follow all the steps in you detailed instructions. Is that correct? And, please tell me if I have become annoying or you think this is something that I shouldn't do due to my inexperience. Thanks
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] rpsmor:
Unable to rollback

Hii guys,

I pasted the .bin file into my internal storage and tried to update , but it shows an error saying the update is not valid. My current version is 4.5.5, and i want to downgrade to 3.2.8. i have tried it both by turning WiFi on and off. And also the file gets deleted from the internal storage after trying to update.

Help required

Thanx
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] ONYXis:
Try to wifi off, reboot, put the file, reboot, wait few minutes and try to update (downgrade).

And check that your time-date on device is correct.

And I hope that your device is 3rd gen , not Fire HDX Saturn 4gen.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Cl4ncy:
You can install via adb if you enabled USB debugging in Fire OS. Install minimal ADB and Fastboot (see above), then open a DOS box, change dir to your adb directory by entering e.g. cd\adb (if c:\adb is your adb directory), then enter adb install app.apk (with app.apk being the file name of the app you want to install, the app must be in the adb directory as well).

But you don't need to have to install like this, if you used HDX Toolkit to root and disable OTA you can connect to the internet. Still I would recommend to do the work mentioned above first, which doesn't require internet connection, it's all work to be done from PC with the HDX connected by USB.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] myotai:
No Apps after reboot??

Hi,

Did the process a while back and all worked well - then device had performance issues so I decided to do it all again. all good again up to the reboot, but now after rooting and registering the device is not showing any Apps on the home page at all..just a blank black screen that seems to have a very dim progress bar moving across the top????

Can still get into Safestrap - though the back up fails every time I try, and can still get into 'settings and use the search icon after swiping down to search for my apps....so can install them from cloud, but they're just not showing on the default kindle home screen?

All help appreciated!

M...
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
As [MENTION=5594063]ONYXis[/MENTION] noted you can only downgrade 3rd Gen devices with 2.2Ghz processors (all 7" models; 8.9" models produced before Sept '14). If the previous steps don't help try a factory reset which can be initiated from the native recovery menu.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] Csr Felon:
The two messages below ate not from me

Hi, I don't know what the protocol is for replies but, the 2 replies the proceed this one at not from me. The do not have my username in the post. Is there someone posing as me or is the other two replies coming to my email because we ate on the same thread? I don't understand this? I would appreciate an explanation as to why I am receiving another person's response by email and it is on the same thread as mine? This will make it very difficult to follow along with this post/reply. Thanks for your help.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
You are getting notified to updates in a public thread where you made a contribution. Any registered XDA user can comment. You can disable auto notifications in various ways depending on the device/method used to view forum content. In a web browser there are controls in the upper right corner. You can also find XDA forum tutorials online (do a search).
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] ivacor:
4.5.5 ok too.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
If you are asking if 4.5.5 can be rolled back the answer is 'yes' for 3rd gen devices. You can NOT roll back 8.9" models produced after Sept 2014 (4th gen). Spend time reading through instructions & cautions (especially OTA) in this thread to avoid bricking your device.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] grandamle91:
I tried this and after it checks it restarts and says installing then says Error!
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DBCAB:
This Worked Perfect on my 4.55 Kindle Hdx TY
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] epicbob57:
Did I do something wrong?

I followed the instructions as given, put the file in the internal storage folder, and downgraded to what ever it was... then since this post says "From 3.2.8 you can upgrade to 4.5.2." I looked in the settings and update and there was an available update, something like user_ then a bunch of numbers. I think it ended with 4.5.1. Anyway, I ran this update and now my device doesn't boot :( It said: "Installing system update" for a while and now the screen is off and I can't turn it on. WHAT DID I DO WRONG???

please help i hope my kindle isn't bricked
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] jeryll:
I'm really sorry, but your kindle is hardbricked. If you look on OP again you'll see this:

After Installing this update your need to disable OTA immediately!!!

OTA = over the air updates; receiving OTA update from Amazon after downgrade to 3.2.8 is for hdx tablet deadly.

Only allowed update from 3.2.8 to 4.5.2 is manually by user.
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] epicbob57:
That's what I thought.

I thought that After Installing this update your need to disable OTA immediately!!! meant after installing 4.2.5.:crying:

:(

Do you know of any way to fix a hard-bricked kindle? I won't get hopeful, but I'm willing to replace the motherboard or something of the sort.

I knew I should have researched this more... hopefully my case will be a warning to others.

At least now I have a fancy new paperweight;)
[Kindle Fire HDX 7" & 8.9" General] DB126:
Unfortunately, there is no known recovery from this situation (hence 'hard-bricked'). Really sorry for your loss.