How to Root Samsung Galaxy S4 I9500 (Exynos 5) on Android 4.2.2 XXUAMDE Jelly Bean [GUIDE] [VIDEO]

Following the release of Samsung Galaxy S4, the manufacturer has come out with an official software update, Android 4.2.2 XXUAMDE Jelly Bean, for the Exynos 5 ocat-core variant of the device with model number I9500. The firmware has been rolled out in several countries. It can be downloaded via OTA and through Samsung KIES server as well. Users from supported regions can also install the update using Odin flashing tool.

Those Galaxy S4 users, who have already upgraded their devices with Android 4.2.2 XXUAMDE Jelly Bean and are currently looking for a root method, may follow our step-by-step guide.

The tutorial below uses root file as well as the method released by XDA developer, cofface.

Recovery file features

Based on CWM 6.0.3.2

Root your phone   

Head over to the development page to learn more about the root.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to the device. Additionally, users are advised to verify that their devices meet following requirements. 

Pre-requisites

1) Install USB Driver for Samsung Galaxy S4 to transfer files between the Android device and the computer.

2) Enable USB Debugging Mode on the phone to connect it with the computer and use Android SDK with it. [Press Menu>> Settings>> Applications. From there navigate and click on Development option and ensure the USB Debugging Mode is turned on.]

3) As the tutorial might wipe out all data of the phone, create backup for the same. If the device is having any custom recoveries such as ClockworkMod/TWRP already installed then back up data using the recovery.

4) The Galaxy S4 should have above 80% battery charge.

5) The device should be factory unlocked and not locked to a particular carrier.

6) Rooting the phone will void manufacturer's warranty. However, users can reclaim the warranty back by unrooting it later.

7) The root file used in the tutorial works only on Samsung Galaxy S4 I9500. Applying this on any incorrect variant might brick the device. Therefore, verify the model number of the Galaxy S4 by navigating to Settings>> About phone.

Steps to root Samsung Galaxy S4 I9500 on Android 4.2.2 XXUAMDE Jelly Bean

Step-1: Download Samsung Galaxy S4 I9500 root package to the computer [File name: SamsungI9500_cwm_Recovery-by cofface_0503.zip]

Step-2: Extract the downloaded zip file using any extracting tool such as winrar/7zip/winzip

Step-3: Download Odin v3.07 and extract the zip

Step-4: Turn off the Galaxy S4. Then boot the device into Download Mode by pressing and holding Volume Down and Home buttons together and then press the Power button until the device turns on. Now press the Power button again to enter Download Mode

Step-5: Run Odin on the computer

Step-6: Plug in the USB cable to the Galaxy S4 to connect it with the computer while it is in the Download Mode. Wait for some time until Odin detects the device. When the phone is connected to the computer successfully, the ID: COM port will turn yellow with the COM port number. Also the successful connection will be indicated by an Added message under Odin.

If the Added message does not appear, then try the port located at the back of the computer. If that too does not work then re-install USB driver

Step-7: In Odin, click the PDA button and select the cofface_samsungI9500_recovery_en_0503.tar file

Step-8: Verify that Auto Reboot and F.Reset Time checkboxes are selected in Odin. Also ensure that the Re-Partition option is unchecked

Step-9: Double-check everything and finally click the Start button in Odin. The installation process should now begin and take a few minutes to complete

Step-10: When the installation process is completed, the phone will restart automatically. Once the home screen appears, disconnect the phone from the computer 

Step-11: Switch off the Galaxy S4 and boot the phone into recovery mode by pressing and holding Volume Up, Home and Power buttons together. Then select ROOT YOUR PHONE. Once the rooting process is completed, return to the recovery menu and select reboot system now to reboot the device

As the Samsung Galaxy S4 boots up successfully, it should be rooted successfully on Android 4.2.2 XXUAMDE Jelly Bean official firmware. Open the app list of the phone and check for an app called SuperSU. To ensure the aforementioned root method is installed and working properly, verify with the Root Checker app from Google Play Store.

                                                                                                                                           [Video credit: XDA]