HTC One M8 runs on the v4.4.3 KitKat OS with custom Sense UI, but users who are interested in rooting can unlock their device using the Chain Fire's CF-Auto-Root application tool.
Rooting enables users to install custom ROMs or third party apps of their choice and also perform tweaks in the settings to improve the device's performance. Though users get more control over the smartphone, the company warranty will be void and will no longer be liable for future updates [warranty can be restored by flashing the device with stock-ROM].
Prerequisites (things to remember before rooting the device):
- HTC One M8 must be running on the official firmware.
- Rooting of devices sometimes lead to clearing of memory (if steps are not properly followed), so make sure to back up all data. [Install Clockwork Mod (CWM) Recovery/ TWRP in the smartphone to save the data].
- Users make sure you have installed USB drivers on the PC to connect your HTC One M8 or else the device won't be recognized by the computer.
- Make sure your device has more than 80 percent battery or else there is a chance of smartphone getting temporarily bricked if the process is interrupted in the mid-way.
[Disclaimer: This procedure is very technical and should be performed by a person with sound knowledge of rooting (or manual software installation) Android devices. If the step-by-step installation process is not followed properly, there are chances of the smartphone getting bricked or being permanently irreparable. International Business Times, India Edition cannot be held responsible for any damage or claims from readers if the procedure does not yield the required results or if the smartphone is bricked. Hence, users are advised to proceed with caution.]
Step-by-step procedure of firmware rooting on HTC One M8 via CF-Auto-Root tool:
Step 1: Download CF-Auto-Root application tool (here) in to your PC.
[Note: Before plugging the phone to the computer, be sure you have installed USB driver software, if not, click here to download firmware]
Step 2: Now, connect HTC One M8 to your PC.
Step 3: Now place the 'UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.02.zip' file in to the smartphone's SD card memory. [Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip file in SD card root, not in any other folder.]
Step 4: Now, turn-off of the phone, and disconnect from PC. Then, enter download mode, by press holding Volume (up) + 'Power' button.
Step 5: Once you enter in to the Recovery mode, select 'flash zip from SD card'
[Note: use 'Volume' keys to navigate and 'Power' button to select options, while operating under Recovery Mode]
Step 6: Then, press power button again and click 'choose zip from sdcard'
Step 7: Now, initiate the rooting process by tapping –'UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.02.zip file'.
[Note: use 'Volume' keys to navigate and 'Power' button to select options, while operating under Recovery Mode]
Step 8: Once the installation is completed, go back to main recovery settings and from there re-initiate booting by pressing- 'reboot system now'.
Now, your device (HTC One M8) will take a few minutes (for the first time only) to complete the booting process. Once done with the process, use SuperSU app/ Root checker to confirm the rooting process on the phone.
[Credits: Team Android]
