The HTC One has been bootloader unlockable since day one — meaning users can gain access to the guts of the device and install custom recoveries, kernels and ROMs — but there has always been one more step before true device freedom.
Even with an unlocked bootloader, most HTC devices come S-ON, referring to the installation of a security flag that prevents users from truly messing with their hardware. Achieving S-OFF, which has been hit-or-miss for a few generations of HTC devices now, refers to that security flag being removed, allowing users to install custom HBOOT versions, including downgrading, which isn’t possible when S-ON; SIM unlocking, which is usually a paid service; and, perhaps most importantly, SuperCID, which allows users to install any RUU from any manufacturer to a formerly carrier-locked device.
RUUs are important tools, as they let users fully recover from a software fault, returning to a completely pristine install of the original software. But HTC works with the carriers to ensure that, when S-ON, the CID string is locked to, say, Rogers or Bell. Only a compatible RUU will install. With SuperCID, you can install a European or Asian ROM, opening up some new features or just doing away with the bloatware that comes with a lot of Canadian installs.
More relevant to the situation, however, is the fact that there are currently no RUUs available for Canadian HTC One devices, so if a near-brick scenarios comes about, there’s no way to revert to the original software. It’s all very confusing (which is why I gave it up, for the most part).
The new tool, called RevOne, comes from experienced HTC hacking teams, Revolutionary and AlphaRevX, and is not for the inexperienced hacker. There is no graphical UI to use at the moment; the process involves ADB and knowledge of the terminal screen.
There are also other benefits to going S-OFF: the device will no longer warn you that you’re using unauthorized software, nor will the bootloader scream “TAMPERED” at the top like some accusatory officer.
If you’re interested, head to XDA-Developers and give it a try.
Source: XDA
Via: Android Police
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