Samsung Galaxy S8 Root: How To Install TWRP

If you own the Samsung Galaxy S8, but don’t like the company’s TouchWiz UI, there is an alternative available and you can install a custom recovery. While custom recovery is different from rooting, TWRP is the predecessor of actually installing a root on the device.

Read: New Samsung Galaxy S8 Model With Qualcomm Snapdragon 840 Chip Is Unlikely; Here’s Why

To install TWRP, you need an unlocked bootloader. Bootloaders on Samsung devices are more difficult to install, as Samsung has two versions of its flagships such as the Samsung Galaxy S8 — one powered by Exynos and one powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. On Exynos devices, users simply need to toggle for OEM unlock but on the Snapdragon variants, Samsung has made unrooting the device tougher. A TWRP port is now available for such devices.

Note: International Business Times cannot be held responsible if anything goes wrong. Users should proceed at their own risk.

A word of caution: This TWRP might not work for some U.S. models. Also it is advisable to perform a backup of your data before installing the TWRP. Also, once you are able to install it, you will not have access to Samsung’s proprietary apps such as Samsung Pay and Secure Folders.

Also, rooting might result in bricking your device or at the very least, void your warranty. Also, many S8s have been left stuck in bootloop in failed rooting attempts.

If you are willing to proceed further, here’s how to install TWRP on the Samsung Galaxy S8.

1. Disable Reactivation Lock by either removing your Samsung Account from the “Cloud and Accounts” list from the Settings app or disabling Reactivation Lock only.

2. Unlock your bootloader. Download, install, and run the CROM service tool from the very same XDA developer. This step basically certifies your leap from the S8 software to custom recovery.

3. You will need to download the necessary files — either the Samsung Smart Switch PC software or the Samsung drivers, the Odin flashing tool, and the TWRP image for installing TWRP on the Galaxy S8 or the Galaxy S8+.

4. Now, reboot the phone into download mode by pressing the volume up, Bixby, and power buttons for 15 seconds together. Then, press the volume up button again at the prompt.

5. Run Odin and place the matching TWRP file in the AP slot. Connect the Galaxy S8/S8+ to the PC, press and hold the volume down, Bixby, and power buttons and click on the start button in Odin.

6. Wait for the process to finish and, if successful, Odin will show a green bar and the phone will reboot into TWRP.

Read: Samsung Galaxy S8 Sales, Mobile Component Business Drive Sales In Q2 2017

This process will allow you to root your Samsung Galaxy S8. You can even leave the device with the custom recovery installed. In case you are looking for roots for the Galaxy S8, you can check out Chainfire’s Auto-root, which will allow you to enhance, modify and customize your device.