How to Root Galaxy Ace 2 on Official Android 4.1.2 I8160XXMF2 Jelly Bean Firmware [TUTORIAL]

Samsung recently rolled out its latest Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean official firmware with build number I8160XXMF2 for the international variant of Galaxy Ace 2 (GT-I8160). The new firmware is now available for download via Over-The-Air (OTA) update as well as through Samsung KIES in select South Asian countries, while others can manually download and install the same using our step-by-step guide posted here.

Galaxy Ace 2 users who have already installed the latest official firmware, Android 4.1.2 I8160XXMF2, on their devices can now root the same using our tutorial below.

NOTE: Rooting a device will void its warranty. However, users can reclaim the device warranty by reinstalling the latest official firmware from Samsung. IBTimes UK will not be held liable for device damage during or after the rooting process. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

• Download and install the correct USB drivers for Galaxy Ace 2 on computer
• Android 4.1.2 I8160XXMF2 OTA firmware is compatible with Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 I8160 model only. Attempting to install the firmware on any other variant may brick or permanently damage the device. Verify your device model number.
• Backup important data and settings on your phone before proceeding with firmware installation
• Ensure that your phone is factory unlocked (not locked to any particular carrier)
• Make sure the phone's battery is at least 80% charged to prevent unexpected device shutdown during firmware installation
• Enable USB Debugging mode on the device by navigating to Settings > Developer Options (if device is running on Android 4.0 or later) or go to Settings >Applications> Development (if phone is running on Android 2.3 or earlier). Otherwise if the device is running on Android 4.2, then do the following:
• Go to Settings > About Phone
• Scroll down to the bottom and select Build Number
• Tap the Build Number seven times to unlock or reveal the hidden Developer Options under Settings. Then select the checkbox to enable USB Debugging mode under Settings > Developer Options.
• ODIN is designed to work in Windows OS only. Linux and Mac OS X users should use CrossOver Utility to run ODIN on their computer.

Steps to Root Galaxy Ace 2 I8160 Running on Android 4.1.2 XXMF2 Jelly Bean Firmware

Step 1: Download the Root package for Galaxy Ace 2 on computer.

Step 2: Connect the phone to computer via USB cable.

Step 3: Copy the root.zip file to the phone's external SD card.

Step 4: Wait until the file transfer process completes. Then switch off the phone and disconnect it from computer.

Step 5: Boot the device into stock recovery mode by pressing and holding Volume Up, Home, and Power buttons together. In recovery mode, use Volume keys to navigate between options and Home/ Power button to select the desired option.

Step 6: Choose apply update from external storage and then navigate to the root.zip file which you copied earlier to the SD card.

Step 7: Select the root.zip file and confirm installation.

Step 8: After the root installation process completes, return to main recovery menu and hit Reboot System Now.

Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 I8160 running on Android 4.1.2 I8160XXMF2 Jelly Bean firmware is now rooted successfully. Any app that requires root permission can now be installed. Confirm the root status of your device by downloading and installing Root Checker app from Google Play Store.

[Source: Honai of Android]