Root Galaxy S4 (LTE) on Android 4.4.2 I9505XXUFNBA Stock Firmware

Samsung recently rolled out its latest Android 4.4.2 KitKat update with build number I9505XXUFNBA, for the international (LTE) variant of Galaxy S4 (GT-I9505).

Those who have already installed the said official KitKat firmware on their Galaxy S4 (LTE) via Over-The-Air (OTA) update or through manual installation can root the same by following our step-by-step guide using CF-Auto-Root with Odin flash tool.

CF-Auto-Root tool is created by XDA recognised developer, Chainfire. Learn more about this tool and its features from 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 (LTE) GT-I9505 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 LTE has at least 80 percent battery charge.

6. The Android CF-Auto-Root is compatible with Galaxy S4 (LTE) GT-I9505 only. Do not attempt installing it on GT-I9500 or any incorrect variants as it may brick the device. Verify the model number of the Galaxy S4 by navigating to Settings >> About Phone.

Downloads Required

• CF-Auto-Root (CF-Auto-Root-jflte-jfltexx-gti9505.zip)
• Odin 3.09

Steps to Root Galaxy S4 (LTE) I9505 Running I9505XXUFNBA Android 4.4.2 Official Firmware

Step 1: Extract CF-Auto-Root and Odin 3.09 files using WinRAR, 7-Zip or WinZip.
Step 2: Power off the Galaxy S4 and boot it into Download Mode by pressing and holding Volume Down, Homeand Powerbuttons together until a construction Android robot icon with a warning triangle appears on screen. Then keep tapping Volume Up button to enter Download Mode.
Step 3: Launch Odin on the computer as Administrator.
Step 4: Connect the Galaxy S4 LTE to computer with USB cable in Download Mode. Wait until Odin recognises the device and 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 APbutton and select the CF-Auto-Root-jflte-jfltexx-gti9505.tar.md5file.
Step 6: Ensure Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time options are selected in Odin. But, the Re-Partition option must be unchecked.
Step 7: Verify the step 5 and step 6, before clicking Start button in Odin. When you hit Start, the root installation process will begin.
Step 8: After the root installation process completes, your phone will reboot and soon aPASS message with green background appears in the left-most box at the very top of Odin. It is now safe to disconnect the USB cable and remove the phone from computer.

Samsung Galaxy S4 (LTE) I9505 is now rooted on official Android 4.4.2 KitKat firmware. It is now possible to install any app that requires root permission.

Alternately, download and install Root Checker app from Google Play Store to confirm the root status of the device.

Troubleshooting: "Unfortunately, SuperSU has stopped" Error

Step 1: Download and install the latest SuperSU APK for your device.
Step 2: Launch SuperSU app and update the binary if prompted. Allow the app to disable KNOX.
Step 3: Reboot the phone.

[Source: Team Android]