Unlocking/De-branding/Rooting/Flashing

[kolipe]

Hi all, I am completely new to open source. I have no idea as to what the above terms mean. All I want is FroYo and all other updates without having to wait for the carrier (O2) to release. O2 are useless in releasing updates. And also I need to be able to use the phone with any sim.

Can someone help as to how to go about achieving this?

Apologies if this is dealt somewhere else. I would be happy read about it if you point me to the relevant thread.

Thanks.

HTC Desire with O2 still on 2.1

 

[LECTER]

Hi all, I am completely new to open source. I have no idea as to what the above terms mean. All I want is FroYo and all other updates without having to wait for the carrier (O2) to release. O2 are useless in releasing updates. And also I need to be able to use the phone with any sim.

Can someone help as to how to go about achieving this?

Apologies if this is dealt somewhere else. I would be happy read about it if you point me to the relevant thread.

Thanks.

HTC Desire with O2 still on 2.1

Might want to look here.

Desire - All Things Root - Android Forums

 

[L60N]

Buy an unlock code before you start messing, it will save you from a near heart attack further down the rabbit hole.

I got mine from this chap (no relation / not pimping his shop, but he supplied me a working code within 10mins) :

eBay My World - express-codes

 

[SUroot]

Unlocking-removing the SIM Lock to your carrier, often using a code.

Debranding-The process of removing all carrier added branding (Splash screens etc) This will not remove any sim lock

Rooting- The process of obtaining root access to the phone's operating system (Basically admin permissions) This will mos likely involve flashing a new Operating system (ROM) with the permissions already added. This will be a generic rom with no branding (or a custom rom if you choose) - This will debrand if you choose on non-branded rom, but your simlock will remain.

Flashing - The process of installing a ROM or update to the internal memory, which you would not usually have access to do.

I would expect with a generic, debranded rom, you should get the froyo update Over the Air.

 

[teppic74]

O2 will provide an unlock code for free if you're on contract.

You can either wait until September for the O2 branded update or debrand for froyo now.

 

[jay_kay]

If I can use other sim cards in my phone ok does that mean that mine is not simlocked?

Thinking of rooting mine and dont want to waste

 

[SUroot]

Yes, if you can switch sims from different carriers and make / receive calls (excluding emergency calls), its unlocked.

 

[kolipe]

I am hoping to root the desire and installing a custom rom to get the froyo update.

however, i am not sure how to pick a custom rom.

can u suggest me a few and where to get it? I want the rom with htc sense and reasonably stable. hope u can help.