How to Root and Install Recovery on Sony Xperia Z3 (D6653/D6603/D6633)

Sony Xperia Z3 users can now enjoy the core hardware and software features, as root access is now available for the device.

Senior XDA member, monx, has shared the TWRP v2.8.0.1 file through which the Xperia Z3 can be rooted. The root method uses SuperSU file by Chainfire. The member has confirmed the root method works on Z3 variants such as D6653, D6603 and D6633 with unlocked bootloder.

Head over to the development thread to know more about the root release for Xperia Z3.

Those who wish to root their Xperia Z3 using TWRP v2.8.0.1 may follow the guide below.

Points to remember

• Install latest and working drivers for the Xperia Z3.
• Before following the guide, ensure that you have backed up all data of the device.
• The phone should have an unlocked boot loader. [Click here for help]
• If the phone goes off during the process due to lack of battery, it could damage the device. Therefore the phone should have above 80% of charge.
• The TWRP file and the root process work on Xperia Z3 models such as D6653, D6603 and D6633. Flashing these files on any other variant might brick the device. Therefore, verify the model number of Xperia Z3 by navigating to Setting>> About phone>> Model number.
• Unlocking the bootloader and installing root files will nullify the warranty of the smartphone.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to the device.

How to install TWRP recovery on Sony Xperia Z3

Step-1: Download recovery boot file

Download link: bootZ3monxtest01.img

Step-2: Download ADB and fastboot file

Download link: adb-and-fastboot-files.zip

Step-3: Extract adb-and-fastboot-files.zip using any extracting tool to a separate folder on the computer

Step-4: Copy the bootZ3monxtest10.img file to same folder where the adb and fastboot files are saved

Step-5: Press Shift and Right-Click on an empty space inside the folder and select Open command window here from the context menu. This will open a command prompt window

Step-6: Boot into fastboot mode. To do so first power off the phone. Press and hold Volume Up button. Connect the phone to the PC using a USB cable while holding the Volume Up button on the Xperia Z3

Note: Before plugging in the USB cable to Xperia Z3, ensure that the other end of the USB cable is already connected to the PC.

Step-7: Type in the following in the command prompt window

fastbot devices

Step-8: Enter the following command

fastboot flash boot bootZ3monxtest01.img

Step-9: Wait for some time until fastboot completes flashing the boot image which contains TWRP recovery

Step-10: Reboot the phone by typing the following command

fastboot reboot

The Xperia Z3 should reboot into recovery. When it boots up the TWRP recovery should be installed on the phone.

How to boot Xperia Z3 into recovery mode

• Switch off the Xperia Z3
• Turn the phone and when the phone's LED notification light turns pink, start pressing the Volume Up or Volume Down button for a couple of times to boot the phone into recovery mode

How to root Sony Xperia Z3 using TWRP recovery

Step-1: Download the SuperSU root file

Download link: UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.02.zip

Step-2: Move the downloaded root file to a safe location on your phone

Step-3: Boot Xperia Z3 into recover mode (Check the above mentioned steps)

Step-4: In recovery mode, perform a Nandroid backup. It is optional but important if something goes wrong you can restore the current status easily. Navigate to Settings>> select all checkboxes and do a swipe on the Swipe to confirm option

Step-5: Go to Install>> head over to the location where the SuperSu file is saved. Tap on the root file, and then do a swipe on Swipe to confirm flash option at the bottom of the screen

Step-6: Once the installation process is completed, reboot the phone. From the main recovery menu tap on Reboot>> tap on System

The Xperia Z3 should now be rooted successfully with the TWRP recovery installed.

[Source: Android Soul]