To learn how to repair mobile phone software
Introduction to the world of software maintenance
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, we begin together our journey of learning software, both theoretically and practically. God willing, you will enjoy this course. Consider it your starting point and your first lesson in the world of software. We will quickly summarize what we have missed, so that you will leave this course feeling as if you have taken a software course at one of the most specialized centers. The course will be completely free, and all we ask of you, if you like the content, is that you share it with your friends and subscribe to the channel as a small token of appreciation and encouragement for us to continue providing more.
The fundamental difference between software and hardware
The concept of software: Understanding before memorization
First , to become a professional software technician, you must understand that software is a process of understanding, not memorization. You will encounter many problems, so don't think it's as simple as 1+1=2. Don't assume that if the device has a network connection, the problem is simply this or that. You might try one solution and it doesn't work; then you must look for a second and a third. You might use foreign websites that provide solutions, but you will need to translate them. The whole point is to become a good internet researcher and not to memorize solutions, because software is based on understanding, not memorization.
Definition of hardware
Hardware is anything tangible that we see and touch. For example, a desktop computer or laptop, including its cables, connectors, and screen, are all hardware components. They are physical, tangible components.
Definition of Software
Software, as a term, refers specifically to the programs or software used in operating systems. The operating system that powers a computer or mobile device is software. Every device, composed of physical hardware, requires programming or a set of programs to function. The integration of software and hardware ultimately results in a functional device.
The same principle applies to mobile phones: their components, such as the motherboard and integrated circuits (ICs), are all hardware. If you break the screen and replace it, that's hardware. Installing a screen protector on a mobile phone is a physical part, so it's hardware.
Operating systems and component integration
Software is the operating system on a device. We'll quickly learn about mobile operating systems, just like computer operating systems (Windows, macOS, and Linux). The concept of a computer is the same as that of a mobile phone, as both are electronic devices; the only differences are a few, which we'll explore together.
Hardware refers to physical components, while software refers to the software itself. An operating system is a general term encompassing both programs and drivers; it is an intangible component, unlike hardware. Software is the collection of programs or applications that run the computer, and the integration of both results in a usable device.
Software privacy and the importance of security
On a computer, you can install Windows 7, 8, or 10—any operating system will do. But with a mobile phone, it's completely different; each mobile model has its own specific software. We can't transfer mobile phone software to another mobile phone. This is a very important point, and the most important point of this whole process: we must protect ourselves by following the rules and principles we will learn and follow in this course. If we follow them, we will protect ourselves and work safely.
For example: If I have a flash file available on the official website of the mobile phone manufacturer, why would I risk downloading it from another website when I can download it from the official website? I must follow certain rules and instructions to protect myself from damaging the device in the wrong way, or giving the device the wrong flash file that causes complications or problems for the mobile phone.
The most important thing about software isn't memorization or following a single path, but rather understanding. It's also about safety. We must adhere to the correct principles and rules to avoid damaging the device. For example, when we receive a mobile phone we want to flash, checking the battery is a fundamental step. If the battery isn't fully charged while flashing, problems may arise. The phone might not accept the flashing process, and all because of what? Because I didn't follow the agreed-upon rules, which are to check the battery level and ensure it's above 50%. If I ignore something like this, the phone might work normally and flash normally, but often the software process will fail. Therefore, we say: protect yourself by following the rules and principles.
Why do we need to reprogram the phone? And are all malfunctions software-related?
The idea of performing a software update on a mobile phone will be explained by examining common software problems. What are some common software problems?
We agreed that when we receive a new mobile phone, it will be free of any problems. Its problems begin to appear and become apparent with use. The device starts to freeze and lag.
Common software problems
1. Pattern Problem: The pattern or password problem is one of the most common software problems.
2. Screen lock problem: This is a pattern, design, or code problem, where the user cannot unlock or access the mobile phone.
3. The fingerprint itself : The fingerprint may be correct, and I may be sure that I enter the correct code, but the mobile phone does not open. So here there is a software problem, which is the inability to access or log into the phone.
Other common problems
• Lag and slowness : In modern devices, lag and slowness are less common. In the past, if a customer complained that their device was slow or lagging, you would look at the device's version and the Android operating system it was running. If it was an older model, it would naturally lag because the software and technological advancements have led us to adopt newer versions. Companies are always trying to keep you on a certain path until the old ones become obsolete and you start buying the new ones, thus keeping the market busy and their sales going. They impose these conditions on you against your will, so if a device lags or is slow, it's usually due to the device's version itself.
But suppose the device is new and lags, or new and slow, or new and doesn't support Arabic. These are all software problems. The device needs an update.
• Locked to a specific network: The device comes from abroad and is locked to a specific network; it needs to be unlocked.
· It's off and doesn't work : Although I checked the hardware and there are no defects, the device is off and doesn't work.
• Giving many error messages: such as viruses, or stopping at the FBAR, or stopping at the manufacturer's own account (Xiaomi, Huawei, etc.).
These are all common software problems. In a case like this, I have to perform a software update on the mobile phone.
How do we distinguish between software and hardware defects?
Of course, when someone tells us the device's screen is broken, or that it was dropped and bumped, these are hardware problems. For example, if the device won't turn on, the power button itself might be stuck. I need to first assess and determine: is this a hardware or software issue?
I can determine the problem through the software. The phone is still new. Even if I wanted to check it to see if the problem is hardware or software before opening the phone and taking out the scalpel to dissect it, I could run a software test on the phone, and it would tell me: Is this phone's problem software-related and will it be fixed or not? If it's not fixed, then I would resort to a hardware test.
Important terms: Software change and upgrade
Software update means replacing old software with new software. It could be the same version, but the main idea is to remove the old software that caused problems and install new software.
Software Upgrade : This process involves updating the software to a newer version than the existing one. For example, if the existing version is 2.1, I might upgrade to 2.2, 2.3, or 3.0. There is a difference between versions; each newer version is called an upgrade.
Upgrading is an important and beneficial process because it makes many things easier. If I have a mobile phone and upgrade it (install a newer software update), this newer software resolves many problems, optimizes the device, and provides enhanced security. That's why companies constantly release upgrades for their phones.
Common software and hardware malfunctions
How do we determine if a device has a software or hardware problem? There are common software and hardware defects, which present two possibilities:
1. The device is stuck on the logo : The device is stuck on the Huawei, Infinix, Samsung, or Apple logo. In this case, the problem could be either hardware or software-related, as both possibilities exist.
2. The device enters and returns to recovery mode : As we will see in the practical lessons, this also has two possible outcomes.
3. The camera is not working : This has more than one possibility between hardware and software.
4. The device turns on and restarts : two possibilities.
5. Network or Bluetooth Issues : If the network is intermittent, weak, or disconnects, this is a hardware issue. However, if there is no network at all, or the IMEI or serial number is missing, these are software problems.
6. The phone is completely dead : When I receive a phone that's completely dead, the first thing I do is check the power supply. You can download a video demonstrating how to test a power supply and see if the problem is hardware or software-related, and whether the phone is still working or completely unresponsive.
IMEI (Phone Digital Fingerprint) Problem
We also have issues with serial numbers and IMEI. We will discuss all of this both theoretically and practically.
One of the most common software problems currently affecting many devices is that many people flash a mobile phone, and suddenly the IMEI is gone, the serial number is missing, the network is unavailable, and the device seems to function as if no SIM card was inserted. So, what exactly is the IMEI?
What is IMEI?
The IMEI , or serial number, usually begins with 35 or 86. If it's a single SIM card, you'll find one number; if it's a dual SIM card, you'll find two serial numbers. The IMEI is a set of numbers (formerly 14, now 16) assigned by the GSM Association.
IMEI stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity, a standard code for mobile phones, essentially a fingerprint. Every mobile phone has its own unique identifier, just like a human fingerprint. No two devices can have the same IMEI; otherwise , when you try to call the phone, the connection will fail because the network will be nonexistent.
The IMEI concept : When one phone calls another, the second phone recognizes the call via its IMEI. This is the basis of communication between phones. Having a duplicate IMEI in the same location or on the same network will prevent the connection from working, as the network will reject the call. Therefore, many people buy devices from abroad and use counterfeit IMEIs or serial numbers. These are stolen serial numbers. The correct IMEI belongs to the phone's manufacturer and is usually found on the back of the phone, on the box, or can be obtained through a few steps we will explain.
The idea behind defining IMEI: It is the standard code for mobile phones (International Mobile Equipment Identity), a set of numbers that identifies the manufacturer, the type of phone, the Android version on the phone, and the software on the phone.
Common IMEI Problems
· IMEI Invalid : or not registered on the network, or Null.
• Giving a fake, non-real IMEI . As we said, a real IMEI starts with 35 or 86.
• A problem with the NVRAM file or FS files . We will identify this in the box when we work with it. We will flash the mobile phone to repair the FS file related to the IMEI.
It's important to note that the "Not Registered on Network" error, even when there's a network connection, usually means the phone has lost its IMEI and connection file, which is the NVRAM or FS file. Save these files carefully. Write down this information and put it in your notes. This is a network file, and it's one of the essential files we'll be working with extensively in the box.
How can you tell if your phone is original or fake?
Go to the IMEI.info website. Type www.imei.info into Google, and you'll be prompted to enter your phone's serial number. Then, perform a search. After clicking "I'm not a robot," it will provide you with your phone's details, specifications, and everything else about it. If you have a paid subscription (not free), this website gives you complete control over your phone: you can format it from anywhere and create backups. There are many other things you can do with imei.info.
How can I check the IMEI or serial number?
There are a number of steps:
1. First method : Dial *#06# and try it now. See what happens or what result appears. Your mobile phone's IMEI number will be displayed immediately. If you have two SIM cards, you will see two numbers; if you have one SIM card, you will see one IMEI number.
2. The second method : From the mobile phone’s Settings, then “About Phone” or General, then the last thing at the bottom you will find the mobile phone’s specifications, there is something called IMEI, and you will find your IMEI there.
3. The third method : From the back of the battery, lift the battery; you will find the IMEI on the battery. Or you might find the IMEI on the box.
Networking Lock and Security Code
We often hear about a "locked, encrypted mobile phone, or one locked to a specific network." I call it unlocking, or decrypting the network. What is a network code? It's the network code.
Encryption is a code that prevents a mobile phone from using any other network. The idea is this: I was traveling abroad, and my SIM card was in Saudi Arabia, or any other network—let's say Vodafone in Egypt. I went to Samsung and bought a batch of phones to distribute to their customers, and I asked Samsung to lock these phones to the Vodafone network only. This is a type of network monopoly. If it works on any other network (if an Etisalat SIM card is inserted), it will only work on the Vodafone network. In this case, the phone is called a "code-locked" phone, and it can be unlocked.
In this case, what happens? It displays "SIM not valid" or "SIM card not accepted." What does the company gain? It restricts the phone's functionality to its own network. This is common in other countries, and some companies even give away free phones that only work on their network. The company benefits by ensuring users top up their accounts and connect exclusively to their network, which is profitable for some companies.
The difference between Network Code and Security Code
Network Code : This is the network code.
· Security Code : It is the code (like the pattern or symbol on the mobile phone that does not unlock the phone), i.e., the protection code, which is the Security Code.
Common software problems and malfunctions (quick review)
The mobile phone is not reading the memory : a software problem.
• Inability to change the screen lock type : You want to change the screen lock and it does not respond, a software problem.
The device is slow, freezes, and overheats : As soon as I upgraded it, I found the device was no longer the same. A problem or malfunction occurred due to the update I performed. Many people have indeed updated their phones, and the phones are still experiencing problems today (fingerprint sensor not working, problems with the device itself).
• Frequent error messages : On three-quarters of Chinese devices, the message "android.process.media" or "process failure" always appears. This is common on devices with weak processors, particularly Chinese devices.
• The phone network stops working and a block icon appears instead of a network signal : or the message "Not connected to network" or "Not identified on network" appears.
• Inability to connect to Wi-Fi and the appearance of the "Authentication error occurred" alert: This is also among the software problems.
Camera failure or camera application failure : This is one of the software problems.
All the problems we encountered were software problems, and we learned the difference between software and hardware.
A quick look at operating systems
We won't repeat this because I covered it in a previous video, and I'll put the link in the description. The operating systems we're currently using are Android 10, and development is ongoing. Those with Android 4, 3, or 5 are becoming obsolete. Current operating systems are always superior. Devices with software glitches aren't very numerous, but they do exist and are a constant presence.
A very important point that we will learn about, God willing, in the practical videos we will work on, is the most common problems we currently encounter, based on current realities. These are the most common problems faced by software technicians.
Tools and software required to start working with software
Basic software operating requirements
To work with software, the first thing is to say "In the name of God." Consider this your starting point or zero point, and write, record, and revise so that you will eventually graduate from the course, God willing.
1. A Supportive Computer : When working with software, I always prefer to work on a desktop (tower) or case, not a laptop. I always prefer the tower machine that's right in front of me. Original tower machines have proven their durability, and their capabilities are now much higher. Buy a machine with good specifications. It should have multiple USB ports. I can leave my laptop for emergencies, for iPhones, for high-end devices, or for other things, so that if the power goes out, it will still work without any issues.
A supported device means it has an operating system (software), it has Windows, it has some working applications, it has a downloader to download from, it has a browser, and so on.
2. Supported Apps and Software for Phones : If you're working on an iPhone, download iTunes and its updates. If you're working on a Samsung, download its software, Odin (a free program). There are paid interfaces for specific boxes, but we're focusing on the free options for now.
If you want to use Sony : download Xperia Companion.
If you want to use LG : Download LG PC Suite.
If you want to use BlackBerry : Download Desktop Manager.
These are the applications or programs that support phones.
Note : It's okay if you download all these programs. If you have a Nokia phone, it will work. If you have a Sony, it will work. If you have an iPhone, it will work. If you have a Samsung, it will work. If you have an LG, it will work. If you have any type of Chinese phone (Xiaomi, Huawei, or Oppo, for example), it will work. So, I have downloaded the applications or programs that support each phone.
3. Original Cable : This is a crucial software rule and one of its fundamentals. When I work on the computer and connect the update cable, I start flashing the phone. There are cables for charging only, and there are cables that, when connected to the computer, allow the phone to charge and transfer data. This is the cable used for the flashing process. Buy the original cable, try it, test it, make sure it's working properly, and set it aside. Buy another one (two, three) as a backup. Then start working.
Always make sure you have your basic tools or established practices while working to avoid confusion. For example, if I get a mobile phone and install software on it, I connect it to one cable, but it doesn't install. I try a different cable, and it still doesn't install. I go around in circles, and eventually, it turns out the cable is the problem. Why? Because I haven't tested this cable and I don't know if it's working or not. So, I need to be confident in my tools.
I received a mobile phone and plugged in my cable, but it wasn't recognized by the computer. I immediately knew that the charging socket had a problem or that the cable itself had a hardware problem, as long as the software tools I was working with were intact.
4. Flashing Tool : The flashing tool interface is exactly like the applications and programs that support the phone, but the only difference is that I will be working with the software of any mobile phone.
I have my computer or laptop, and I'll start by doing the following: I'll work with Samsung, downloading the executable interface I'll be using, which is the program I'll use to flash Samsung devices—let's say Odin. After I download Odin, what do I do next? I download the applications, programs, and drivers specific to Samsung devices. Anything related to Samsung, I'll download to my phone, install it, and then apply it normally, clicking Next, Next until Finish.
I have configured my computer to recognize any Samsung mobile phone. As soon as I connect the phone to the computer, the computer recognizes the phone. Why? Because the necessary drivers are installed.
This is the implementation interface: the program I will flash.
I will flash Samsung using Odin .
I will flash Sony devices by downloading Xperia Companion .
· As we said, applications and programs are the same thing , but here I call it the implementation interface of the company that I will be working on.
5. Ensure the battery is charged above 50%: The phone must be charged. When flashing any phone, I must make sure it is charged. If it is not, I place the phone (battery) on a desktop or power supply and charge it first. I turn on the device or the battery first, making sure the battery is charged above 50%, and then I begin flashing the device.
Important prohibitions and warnings during work
• Do not disconnect the device during flashing : One of the most important prohibitions is to never disconnect the device for any reason. This means that while flashing the device, and once the flashing process has begun, do not completely disconnect it if it accidentally disconnects. Do not leave it while it is off; leave it as is, still running the flashing program.
Secure the connections properly : While working, don't let go of your phone. Always connect the USB cable from the back. Avoid allowing the USB ports on the front of the device to move or shift. Always secure the phone to the USB port located on the back of the computer case, as these ports are directly connected to the motherboard and offer greater security.
The action you should take : Place the mobile phone in front of you on the desk or table so that it does not shake from you, so that the IC does not hit the internal memory.
• Clearing the internal memory : A very important point: When we flash any device, we must clear the internal memory so that no malfunction occurs.
• Do not turn off the mobile phone while it is on : Again, make sure not to turn off the mobile phone while it is working.
• Use up-to-date drivers : For example, if I'm working with Samsung devices, download the latest drivers. If I have a Sony device, download the latest Sony drivers. Always use the latest versions to avoid problems.
Conclusion and beginning of the practical journey
Android is Nokia's latest offering to the market. Every mobile phone has two names. (This point may need further explanation in a separate section on Nokia's history and operating systems.)
What do you think about stopping here?
I feel we've been here for over half an hour. We'll start the next part, which will be simple and quick. It's about Nokia devices, and we'll begin with Samsung. I'll also introduce you to the required tools and upload the drivers as they become available. I'll also upload the implementation interfaces for each company we'll be working with. I'll show you the practical aspects, and while we're working together on the theoretical side, we'll combine practical and theoretical work so that, God willing, everyone will benefit.