Samsung has just started rolling out its first official KitKat update for the international variant of Galaxy S4 (GT-I9500) via Android 4.4.2 build I9500XXUFNB3. The firmware is currently available for download as Over-The-Air (OTA) update as well as through Samsung KIES for Galaxy S4 users in Russia.

Root Galaxy S4 I9500 on Android 4.4.2 KitKat and Install CWM Recovery [GUIDE]

Nevertheless, those who have already installed the update via OTA or using our step-by-step guide (install manually) can go ahead and root the same using Philz Touch Recovery, which brings all the features of ClockworkMod (CWM) Advanced Edition.

Philz Touch Recovery is the creation of XDA recognised developer, Phil3759. Learn more about Philz Touch Recovery and its features on the XDA Developers source page.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to device during or after root installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

1. Install necessary USB Drivers for Galaxy S4 GT-I9500 on the computer.

2. USB Debugging Mode should be enabled on the phone by navigating to Settings >> Developer Options.

3. Back up your important data to avoid potential data loss during firmware installation.

4. Ensure the phone is factory unlocked (not locked to any specific carrier).

5. Verify Galaxy S4 has at least 80 percent battery charge.

6. The Android Philz Touch Recovery (CWM Advanced Edition) is compatible with Galaxy S4 GT-I9500 only. Do not attempt installing it on incorrect variants as it may brick the device. Verify the model number of the Galaxy S4 by navigating to Settings >> About Phone.

Downloads Required

Steps to Root Galaxy S4 I9500 Running on Android 4.4.2 KitKat Official Firmware

Step 1: Extract Odin 3.07 .zip file using WinRAR/7-Zip or WinZip.
Step 2: Turn off the Galaxy S4 and boot it into Download Mode by pressing and holding Volume Down, Home and Power buttons together until a construction Android robot icon with a warning triangle appears on screen. Now keep tapping Volume Up button to progress into Download Mode.
Step 3: Launch Odin on computer as an Administrator.
Step 4: Connect the Galaxy S4 to computer with USB cable while in Download Mode. Wait until Odin detects the device and then the ID: COM box will turn light blue with the COM port number. Furthermore, when the device is connected successfully, a message saying "Added!" appears on screen.
Step 5: In Odin, tap PDA button and select CWM recovery .tar.md5 file. Ensure the Re-Partition option is unchecked.
Step 6: After verifying step 5, click Start button in Odin. The installation process should begin.
Step 7: After the root installation completes, your phone will reboot and soon a PASS message with green background appears at the top left-most box in Odin. It is now safe to disconnect the USB cable and remove the phone from computer.

Step 8: Once again Power off the Galaxy S4 and boot it into CWM recovery by pressing and holding Volume Up, Home and Power buttons together.
Step 9: In CWM recovery, go to "Philz Settings" option and choose "Re-root system (SuperSU)". Then choose "Yes" to Apply SuperSU and confirm the action.
Step 10: Return to main recovery menu and tap "Reboot System Now".

Step 11: Install SuperSU from Google Play Store.
Step 12: Launch SuperSU app and update the binaries as normal.
Step 13: Reboot your phone

Galaxy S4 I9500 is now rooted successfully on Android 4.4.2 KitKat official firmware. Launch app drawer on the phone and check for SuperSU in the apps list to verify root installation.

Alternately, verify the root status of the phone by downloading Root Checker app from Google Play Store.

[Source: Honai of Android]

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