Sony Xperia Z2
The TA Partition contains the DRM keys for your device, needed to utilize the proprietary Bravia Engine and camera optimization. You must make a backup: If you lose these, you will not be able to use these features.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/development/stock-d6502-23-1-0-726-complete-guide-t3085893
My Sony Xperia Z2 was already rooted (but still has locked bootloader engaged). I wanted to update to Android 5.0.2, but it now requires a special update method to retain root privileges.
- Install XZDualRecovery.
- Find an FTF for your device on this XDA Thread.
- You can use different customizations as long as the Model ID is the same (ex. on D6503, unbranded UK on branded phone, Hong Kong on Taiwan phone). Though if you do this, it might be advantageous to backup and wipe the phone first so you have a fresh start.
- Modify the FTF to add root privileges, and prevent it from overwriting TA and PARTITION.
Note: All non-Android projects have moved to the BASLQC Wiki.
- Introduction - A quick intro to the rationale and ideals of this guide, and smartphone modding in general.
- General Setup - Learn how to install and run the tools you need to succeed.
- Device Guides - Customized, fully decked out guides for rooting each and every device we could find.
- General OS Customizations - General customizations that work on all devices of a specific OS.
- General Guidelines - The ideals that you should uphold while working with and editing this guide.
- Device Guide Templates - Templates and general guidelines for creating customized guides for a device.
- Linux - Run a full desktop OS on your little mobile device; research is being made to make it comfortable to use in the mobile space.
- Glossary - Contains all the crazy acronyms and word soup that you'll need to wade through when using this guide.
- Android Buying Guide for Modders - While modding can fix up an outdated device, it will make your life easier to buy the right device from the start.