yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I'm going to be doing a guide on installing LOS 19.1 GSI on the Scepter 8 when free time permits. It's a bit of a tedious process to say the least, so a step-by-step guide will help simplify the process.
[Android General] fuzzyTew:
Thanks so much for your extended effort here.

Did you ever continue the conversation with Hot Pepper to enforce their compliance with the GPL, as you state below you intended to?

Could you share recommendations and contact information for the rest of us to engage Hot Pepper ourselves?

I am interested regarding the Serrano phone I occasionally work on. I would like to look into porting a rom that requires a kernel patch.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I have tried earnestly to enforce the manufacturer's compliance with GNU GPL 2.0 regarding the release of the kernel source code. Although Hot Pepper Mobile is indeed located in the US, the OEM's software development team is located in mainland China. As such, much is lost in translation with English to Chinese and vice versa. The CEO of Hot Pepper, Shawn Sun, does regularly give me access to factory firmware images for the Scepter 8, which were previously unreleased to the public. I give Mr. Sun much thanks for that.

As it currently stands, my own Scepter 8 is broken and inoperable. Until i get another device, my development projects are at a stand-still.
[Android General] fuzzyTew:
I encourage you to buy another Scepter 8, and have donated $50 to help. I found one here at https://www.ebay.com/p/13048267400 for $25 .

My hot pepper phone, the Serrano, I found for $14 at walmart.

It would really be valuable to get this source code. Is there anything further you are willing to do, or can recommend?

I asked elsewhere regarding GPL compliance from Chinese companies and was shared this inspiring video:
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I am most grateful for your donation and I will certainly be ordering a new device this evening. Thank you for the info as well. Very resourceful. Moreover, I will re-ignite my efforts in obtaining the kernel source code for the Scepter 8 - both the Allwinner-A100 and Allwinner-A133 models.

@fuzzyTew, out of curiosity, do you have an interest in compiling from the kernel source code once we get it?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@fuzzyTew, just to update you, I have ordered a new Scepter 8 with the upgraded Allwinner-A133, 2GB RAM, and Android 12 Go Edition. I was also able to order the older model with the A100, 1GB RAM and Android 11 Go Edition. Thanks again for your generous gratuity and your kindness. While it's fresh on my mind, I will go ahead and contact Shawn Sun this evening with my request for kernel source code for both chipset variants of the Scepter 8. As soon as I receive news or any updates, I'll revise the OP with the info. I'm also going to get the most recent factory firmware images for the A133 model.
[Android General] fuzzyTew:
Sounds exciting!

Depending on my scant availability, I’m interested in trying to compile the kernels. I’m unfortunately mostly thinking about the Serrano phones from the same company, which are mediatek based, but maybe I will get a scepter 8 to see if we can share work more.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Do you have firmware for your Serrano, or are you in need of the factory firmware? I can get you a factory firmware package if you need.
[Android General] fuzzyTew:
I actually lost one of the partitions from my original backup. Firmware would be great.

Other firmware releases I have also seen a flashing tool and instructions for use included in the distribution (they were just the instructions given for normal deployment). I don't know whether that's normal.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
What is your exact model number? I will put in the request for a factory image for you later today.

Yes, I've seen a few factory firmware packages which include the corresponding flash tool as well as a brief flashing guide , mainly for MediaTek based devices which utilize SP Flash Tool.
[Android General] fuzzyTew:
I’m sorry it took so long for me to see your message. I’m working with the HPP-L55B.

How far have you gotten on requesting the GPL kernel sources?

It might be some time before I see your reply if you make it after I leave my projects today.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Greetings @fuzzyTew, I sent you a PM regarding my quest for source code. I'll request a factory firmware image for your HPP-L55B Serrano today as well.
[Android General] SamuEDL:
Excuse me, any news about the kernel source of scepter 8? @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
None as of yet @SamuEDL. I have put in the request and I now have another contact over at Hot Pepper Mobile, Jorge Chavez. He is the one of the software engineers for the company and handles all matters concerning firmware, OTA update roll outs, bug reports, source code, etc. He is presently traveling but will be back in the office later this week. I believe he will get me the source code for the Gen 1 & Gen 2 models. My dilemma thus far has been a language barrier with some of the Chinese employees. Mr. Chavez is fluent in English, so I should be close to getting the source code now.
[Android General] Dez.7:
my qlink scepter 8 tablet is corrupt and wont boot. which should i do 1st the bootloader or update the firmware?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Restore your firmware using my guide here https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-firmw...e-restoration-upgrading-guide.4412585//unread

Ensure that you select the correct firmware image based on your model and variant. My guide gives clear instructions on this.
[Android General] Dez.7:
ok so with my firmware ive go cf android 11 when i tried clicking on the link it said it was taken down.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok. Recheck the link in a little bit and I'll have it fixed.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@Dez.7 the Android 11 firmware links are fixed.
[Android General] Dez.7:
how do i get the image file to read as image it says rar right now
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
You extract the image from the RAR archive using any file extractor, such as WinZIP or WinRAR for Windows. You can do it on your Android device as well using the Google Files app or another similar file management app.
[Android General] Dez.7:
so going back to the firmware after i convert them i tried both they say they r not compatible with my device. why is that?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I've never heard of that happening. What is the S/N on the back of your tablet?
[Android General] Dez.7:
well my tablett is bricked and the sticker was removed so i was gna see if there was any way to tell with the hardware what firmware is best for my tablet. im trying both to see which works. inside the tablet i found a cf so i was assuming thats the 1 i should use.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Try one of the other firmware packages. Can't hurt to try as it won't allow you to flash a wrong build.
[Android General] Dez.7:
so 1 worked but all the words and numbers are in reverse
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
No clue. Never heard of that happening. Use the flash tool again, do a full format, and flash it again.
[Android General] SamuEDL:
@Viva La Android Nothing is known about the source code yet, right? 🤨
[Android General] Joy28:
So am I going to be able to root it or not? I've been following up until the patched_boot.img the command does not find this file and I do not now where I am supposed to save it I did not change name its downloaded automatically.. please help
[Android General] Joy28:
Wete you able to root?
[Android General] Joy28:
If so can you please help
[Android General] rupe01:
Hi......Mega tells me that these files are no longer there....? Is there an updated link? Or are they all gone now? Thanks.
[Android General] rupe01:
Lol.....it's no problem but thanks anyway. I am old and broke but i am just wanting to play around with this one, that's all. Nice offer, though, thanks.
[Android General] rupe01:
OK, thanks. Is this one a mod...or just a restore? Mine is still working, but just curious here.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@Scarle

@ScarletWizard please keep the thread on topic.
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
It is. I suppose your opinion on the Scepter 8 fits within the general info & discussion context. My bad @ScarletWizard .
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android I am stuck here please help!!! Download the Magisk patched boot image using the link below and save the file on your PC/laptop in the ADB/Fastboot directory.

I dont know where this directory is or how to create I did not change name of img
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok did you install the 15 second ADB installer yet?
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android Yes and I unlocked ready to root the pc recognizes tablet and I downloaded img without changing name thx
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok open your C drive. At the top of the directory is a folder called adb

Save the patched bout image inside the adb folder.
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android I did try it like that could it be the command? Please look @ attached is this correct??
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I'm having trouble viewing your screenshot for some reason. When you entered fastboot devices did your serial number appear in the command window?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok I see the problem. You're not running fastboot
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Let's move this back to the rooting thread. I know what your issue is
[Android General] Joy28:
Ok now what please?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Execute the command

fastboot devices

The command window will yield your tablet serial number if your device is being properly recognized. Once proper fastboot recognition has been verified, execute the commands in the instructions.
[Android General] Joy28:
@

@ScarletWizard Please advise
[Android General] Joy28:
Please see attached gives same error weather in the adb or cmd command box @Viva La Android @ScarletWizard
[Android General] Joy28:
@ScarletWizard @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
The error indicates that the patched boot image is not saved in your adb/fastboot directory.
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android. Ok but i did what you said i even sent you that screenshot
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android It is here please see pic this is where I thought you told me to put it..?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Yes you saved the patched_boot.img in the correct directory. Are you opening your command window from that path?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok @Joy28 here is what you need to do: download this file and place it in the same folder as your patched_boot.img file. Once you save this file, double click it. It will open a command window in the correct path. Once the command window is open, proceed with the commands like usual.

cmd-here.exe

drive.google.com
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android. I did what you said still an error message please see attached
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
You typed the command incorrectly. There is a period between patched _boot and img. The command is this:

fastboot flash boot patched_boot.img

Notice the period I referenced. You have to have that. Once that command executed, go on to:

fastboot reboot

Also we need to move this discussion back over to the appropriate thread, the bootloader unlocking & rooting guide.

https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-root-qlink-scepter-8-bootloader-unlocking-rooting-guide.4410341/
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android i spelled it correctly it did not work please see attached
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok you need to troubleshoot the error by the steps in this link https://xdaforums.com/t/fastboot-er...write-to-device-failed-unknown-error.4353105/

One common cause for that error is using an inadequate data sync cable. Also, change USB ports (USB 2.0 is preferred over USB 3.0/3.1).
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android. Thank you so much!
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Did you get it worked out?
[Android General] Joy28:
Yes I think it was the wire smh.. @Viva La Android how do I place something in /system/ x bin on this tablet thx
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
The easiest way perhaps is to use a root supported file management app that supports dynamic partitioning. You may then simply copy and paste to /system/xbin. Out of curiosity, what are you wanting to put in /system/xbin?

MiXplorer is an excellent root supported file management app with dynamic partitioning support. https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/hootan-parsa/mixplorer-hootanparsa/
[Android General] Joy28:
I am trying to install linux and build linux. I dont even know where xbin is ? Smh I'm a little over my head.. I want to PM you but your profile is restricted?? Thanks again @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I wish I had the free time to assist members on a one-on-one basis, but unfortunately I do not. It sounds like you are very zealous in your endeavors to become proficient in Android and the Linux kernel. I would recommend doing some reading on these topics. You can find tons of information, guides, tutorials and resources right here on XDA on these very topics. Use the 🔍feature in your XDA app to find guides and articles in this regard. And, somebody on XDA will almost always be willing to help you along. @ScarletWizard has been a huge help on my threads, abd might be willing to lead you in the right direction.
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android Where is xbin please I dont see it in scepter 8 i dont think it has the xbin... I need to put stuff in there what do I ?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Provide me a little more info as to exactly what you are wanting to do. I'll try to give you a resolution.
[Android General] Joy28:
I need to put linux in there along with other programs... I need rw permission to create xbin folder because that is where all the files including linux need to go @Viva La Android thank you for helping me with a resolution
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
When you reference putting "Linux" into /xbin, I'm assuming you are wanting the BusyBox utilities, which are developed to work with interfaces provided by the Linux kernel.

In the older days of Android (mainly the pre-Marshmallow 6.0 era) the default root directory was indeed /system/xbin/su. This is no longer the case with Magisk and similar methods, which employ a systemless strategy of rooting the Android OS. As you are likely aware, from rooting this device, root is now achieved from modifying and flashing the stock boot.img, which makes modifying /system completely unnecessary; hence, the phrase, "systemless" root. The precise mechanics involved with systemless root are rather complex and multi-tiered, and have evolved with the progression of major Android releases versions. This is a link to a very thorough and elaborate explanation of the systemless root components and actions. https://android.stackexchange.com/questions/213167/how-does-magisk-work

I recommend giving that a good read. Notwithstanding the default root directory employed by Magisk, the mods you are referring to in your inquiry are certainly feasible. You are merely going to be working with the systemless root environment versus the legacy system-wide /system/xbin/su environment. From your reply, I have a general understanding of what you're wanting to do. However, please elaborate more on your meaning of placing Linux in the root directory, as well as the other files you want to add. If I knew more about your end goal, I could perhaps give you some concise instructions.
[Android General] Joy28:
Thank you @Viva La Android I want to create an xbin directory to place a Linux container in so I can use Linux in my terminal and this will allow me to use python3
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
WARNING: This can cause a soft brick of your device, which will require firmware restoration. Modifying the logical /system partition without first extracting it from super.img can result in a boot loop.

You can certainly create /system/xbin. However, this gets tricky because, technically speaking, the Scepter 8 has no logical /system partition. Rather, it uses the dynamic partition scheme whereas /system, /product & /vendor are all part of one large partition called /super. There are some file management apps that support dynamic partitions and allow mods to be made with the logical partitions like /system. MiXplorer is one such app. Install it, go to app Settings,>More Settings and enable the root option. Open the directory menu in the upper left and select Root directory. The app will request root access. Grant it. Now you will simply select add a new folder and name it /xbin. Here is a link to the MiXplorer app https://xdaforums.com/t/app-2-2-mixplorer-v6-x-released-fully-featured-file-manager.1523691/
[Android General] Joy28:
Thank you @Viva La Android when I try to create new folder it says failed pic attached also I enabled root but the app is not requesting... I might of granted it initially since I been had mixplorer downloaded since the last time you recommended it also doesnt allow forward slash please see attached photo
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Unfortunately, that's typical of dynamic partitioning. The only feasible way you can add /system/xbin on this tablet is going to be a rather invasive procedure. You'll need to pull the /super partition from your device as a super.img file. This can be best done on a Windows PC or laptop using the ImgRepacker tool (available here on XDA). Then unpack super.img and extract /system_a, /system_b, /product_a, /product_b, /vendor_a & /vendor,_b. Then, depending on your active slot (_a or _b), unpack the corresponding system.img, mount it, and add /xbin to the /system directory. Be sure and set the appropriate permissions to /xbin and remount it as read/write. Now, repack your system image, repack all files back into super.img and flash it using FastbootD, and not standard Fastboot mode. Upon reboot, you'll have a /system/xbin directory.
[Android General] Joy28:
Thank you @Viva La Android when I try to create new folder it says failed pic attached also I enabled root but the app is not requesting...

@Viva La Android ooof! I will have to ponder on that smh thanks again
[Android General] Joy28:
What build # is the scepter 8 android 11 version please?
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Depends on the first two letters of your serial number. MD or CF?
[Android General] Joy28:
Do you mean this? In that case it's a MD if not please advise where to find this information... thank you @Viva La Android
[Android General] Joy28:
Ok thanks
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
There's a label on the rear of your tablet with the SN printed on it. The SN will begin either with MD or CF. Yes, yours is MD. I will be repairing all firmware links tonight.
[Android General] Joy28:
Ok its def MD 😅 so what is the build please @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
You need build v06. The link should be working
[Android General] Joy28:
What link? I need anything but a 4.0 supposedly @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Let's be sure we are on the same page. You have the Android 11 model and MD serial number variant and you need a factory firmware image, correct?
[Android General] Joy28:
No. I just wanted to know the build #.##. Etc @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I'm not sure what you're asking exactly. What build number? Your firmware build number? Elaborate a little on what you mean and I'll try to give you a concise answer. Thanks
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@Joy28 I recall previously that you successfully rooted your tablet. On the build number to which you have inquired, please give me a bit more info on your meaning. My apologies. I have been on the forums very little this past week, so I'm not up to speed on the details of your question.
[Android General] Joy28:
No worries at @ all

Pardon the delay @Viva La Android i was trying to get clarification on the information I am seeking "the tablet build update" is what I am inquiring about.. does that make sense?! Do you know the answer? Thanks
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
What update? Are you referring to an OTA update?
[Android General] Joy28:
I am not sure anymore 🤷‍♀️ @Viva La Android I appreciate you trying to figure this out with me.. please advise how I can access recycling bin if there is one for recently deleted downloads please..
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok by default, Android has no native Recycle Bin for deleted files like the Windows OS does. However, you may install a third-party file management app which integrates a Recycle Bin option. I would recommend MiXplorer file manager, available for free here on XDA on this thread. https://xdaforums.com/t/app-2-2-mixplorer-v6-x-released-fully-featured-file-manager.1523691/

Once installed, go to app Settings>More Settings, and check the box for Recycle/Trash Bin. Once enabled, anytime you delete files using MiXplorer, instead of being deleted, those files will go into a Recycle Bin directory within internal storage where you can access, restore or permanently delete them.
[Android General] Joy28:
Thank you
[Android General] Joy28:
@Viva La Android Can you please advise what is the best busybox to get? Thanks again
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Sure. Use a static BusyBox binary module for Magisk. You can flash it using the Magisk app. I'll get you a link for it.

Okay this is the Built-In BusyBox v1.0.4 module.

Built-In BusyBox v1.0.4 Module

To install, download the module zip file above and save it to device storage . Next, open your Magisk app. In the bottom toolbar to the far right, select Modules, then select Install From Storage Navigate to the download location of the module zip and select it. Magisk will install the script. Simply reboot your devuce once the installation finishes. Upon reboot BusyBox will be installed & enabled.
[Android General] Joy28:
How do I get super user rights with this busybox please @Viva La Android
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Once you install it as a Magisk module, by default it will have superuser permissions. If I may ask, what exactly are you needing BusyBox for? You may be suited for a system-wide BusyBox installation, depending on your purpose.
[Android General] bencinilife:
I'm getting error message with adb telling me I'm not allowed to flash balabbabl on a locked device. I've unlocked the bootloader and back off ect , however still says same things
[Android General] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@bencinilife , you don't flash anything with ADB. Fastboot mode, not ADB, is the mode you use to flash files to the device.

Provide me with a bit more info. Tell me exactly what you have done, step wise, from the beginning. It sounds as though you are referencing the rooting procedure, although your post was made to the general info thread. To make it easier for me to assist you, abc to keep topics on point, please use the rooting thread as the forum for your inquiries, located here: Scepter 8 Rooting Guide
[Android General] bencinilife:
Sorry failed to mention fastboot mode. I'll send you the screen shot.

@bencinilife , you don't flash anything with ADB. Fastboot mode, not ADB, is the mode you use to flash files to the device.

Provide me with a bit more info. Tell me exactly what you have done, step wise, from the beginning. It sounds as though you are referencing the rooting procedure, although your post was made to the general info thread. To make it easier for me to assist you, abc to keep topics on point, please use the rooting thread as the forum for your inquiries, located here: Scepter 8 Rooting Guide
[Android General] bencinilife:
OK now I am trying to do it all over again so I can share photos and all I'm getting now is what images show. Also attached fastboot screen shot. Ones in fastboot nothing happens or works. Says waiting for device