The first generation Motorola Moto G runs on the v4.4.4 KitKat OS, but users who are interested in rooting can unlock their device using the SuperBoot application.
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):
- Moto G (Gen 1.) 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 necessary. [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 Moto G or else the device won't be recognised 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 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 Motorola Moto G via SuperBoot tool:
Step 1: Download SuperBoot application tool (here) into your PC.
[Note: Before plugging the phone to the computer, be sure you have installed USB driver software, if not, click here to download the firmware]
Step 2: Before proceeding ahead, enable USB debugger in Moto G, by going to settings >> About phone >> Developer options, tap it five times to enable it and then a new Developer options will get unlocked and then click 'USB Debugging'
Step 3: Now, connect Moto G to your PC and extract r1-motog-superboot.zip to any location.
Step 4: Now, turn-off of the phone, and disconnect from PC. Then, enter Bootloader mode, by press holding Volume (down) + 'Power' button.
Step 5: Once you enter in to the Bootloader mode, connect the Moto G to PC (with Windows OS), then select 'superboot-windows.bat SD card' by double clicking on it.
Step 6: Then, command prompt will pop up on the screen and continue with installation process. Once finished, reboot the phone manually.
[Note: use 'Volume' keys to navigate and 'Power' button to select options, while operating under Recovery/Bootloader Mode]
Step 7: Now, your device (Moto G) 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]
