Google Camera for Mi A2/A2 Lite brings Pixel 3 camera features like Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and can also help you drastically increase the camera quality of your phone. In this tutorial, we will guide you on how to enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2/Mi A2 Lite without Root. The method is tested on Android Pie, but should also work on Android Oreo. We have also provided links to download Google Camera 7.2, 7.0, 6.2, and 6.1 Ports for Xiaomi Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite.
In the past two years, Google Camera (GCam) Port from Pixel devices has gained immense popularity. But it is not just known for the amazing and latest features, it also enhances the camera quality and allows you to take great pictures using AI software. It is, in several ways, better than the stock camera app that comes pre-installed on the phone.
But in order to install Google Camera Port, you must first enable Camera2 API on your Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite. Even though Xiaomi phones run stock Android, they still do not support Camera2 API officially. It’s easy to enable it when your phone is rooted, by editing the build.prop file manually, or by simply issuing some simple commands.
But if your Mi A2 is not rooted, you will need to follow a different method. So, just follow the instructions below to first enable Camera2 API without root and then install Google Camera Port on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite.
In brief:
You will first need to boot a Magisk Patched Boot Image to temporarily root the phone. When that is done, you can easily use a Terminal Emulator app to enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite.
And finally, when the API is enabled, you can reboot your phone to unroot and then install the Google Camera Port. By using this method, you will still be able to take OTA updates without any issues.
Page Contents
Download Patched Boot Image
Here, we have provided Magisk Patched Boot Images for Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite to temporarily root it. We have also provided stock boot images for the corresponding firmware, to help you unroot if you mistakenly flash the image.
Updated on 1 October 2019: Android Pie-based Patched Boot and Stock Boot Images of November 2019 security update for Xiaomi Mi A2/Mi A2 Lite are now available. These have been patched with the latest version of Magisk.
For Mi A2 (jasmine_sprout)
- V10.0.17.0.PDIMIXM (November 2019 Update)
- V10.0.16.0.PDIMIXM (October 2019 Update)
- V10.0.15.0.PDIMIXM (October 2019 Update)
- V10.0.14.0.PDIMIXM (September 2019 Update)
- V10.0.13.0.PDIMIXM (Huge thanks to Nebrassy for uploading and Kevin for sharing these with us!)
- V10.0.12.0.PDIMIXM
- V10.0.10.0.PDIMIXM
- V10.0.9.0.PDIMIXM
- V10.0.8.0.PDIMIXM (Thanks to XDA Senior Member ThaiDai)
- V10.0.7.0.PDIMIXM
- V10.0.4.0.PDIMIXM (Huge thanks to XDA Senior Member minnuss!)
- V10.0.2.0.PDIMIFJ
For Mi A2 Lite (daisy)
- V10.0.16.0.PDLMIXM (November 2019 Update)
- V10.0.15.0.PDLMIXM (October 2019 Update) – Thanks Nico van Draanen!
- V10.0.14.0.PDLMIXM (September 2019 Update)
- V10.0.13.0.PDLMIXM (Huge thanks to Roy Goldberg!)
- V10.0.12.0.PDLMIXM
- V10.0.10.0.PDLMIXM (Kudos to Roy Goldberg for sending us these!)
- V10.0.9.0.PDLMIXM
- V10.0.8.0.PDLMIXM
- Patched Boot Image: Link | Google Drive Mirror (Huge props to Roy Goldberg!)
- Stock Boot Image: Link
- V10.0.7.0.PDLMIXM
- V10.0.4.0.PDLMIXM
- V10.0.3.0.PDLMIXM
- V10.0.2.0.PDLMIFJ Patched Boot Image: Link
- V10.0.1.0.PDLMIFJ
Also read: How to Root Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite on Android Pie
How to Enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite
In order to temporarily boot the patched boot image, you will need to install Android SDK Platform-Tools on the PC and unlock the phone’s bootloader first. Once done, follow the steps below to enable Camera2 API without Root:
- Download Patched Boot Image for your Mi A2/A2 Lite.
- Copy the downloaded image file to the folder where the ADB/Fastboot binaries are present (e.g. C:/username/platform-tools).
- Hold the SHIFT key and right-click on an empty space inside the folder.
- Select the ‘Open PowerShell window here’ option.
- Power off your Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite completely.
- Now hold the Volume Down and Power buttons together to enter Fastboot Mode.
- Connect your phone to the PC using the USB cable.
- Enter the following command to temporarily boot the Magisk patched boot image on your Mi A2/Mi A2 Lite:
fastboot boot boot-image-filename.img
- Make sure to replace ‘boot-image-filename.img‘ with the actual filename. For example, if you’re on V10.0.13.0, the command should be:
fastboot boot patched_boot_V10.0.15.0_mi_a2_lite.img
- Just as the command is entered, your Mi A2/Mi A2 Lite should boot into the OS with temporary root.
- Right now, only the Magisk Manager stub is installed on your phone. In order for Magisk to work properly and to grant superuser permissions, you must first install full Magisk Manager.
- Simply go to the phone’s app drawer and launch Magisk Manager app (In case the app doesn’t show up, download the latest APK from here and install it on your phone).
- Select “Yes” when prompted to upgrade to full Magisk Magisk Manager and follow the on-screen instructions.
(For reference only) - Once Magisk Manager is fully installed, download and install Termux (Terminal Emulator) on your phone
- Once installed, launch Termux and enter the following command:
su
- Grant superuser permissions to Termux when prompted
- Finally, enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite by entering the following command:
setprop persist.camera.HAL3.enabled 1
setprop persist.vendor.camera.HAL3.enabled 1
setprop persist.camera.stats.test 5
setprop persist.vendor.camera.stats.test 5
- Once the commands have executed successfully, reboot your phone to uninstall Magisk and unroot completely.
For further confirmation, you can also check Camera2 API support using an app. And finally, follow the next section to install Google Camera Port on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite.
Download Google Camera Port for Xiaomi Mi A2/Mi A2 Lite
There’s no dedicated Google Camera Port, you can try different versions from here. However, after digging enough on XDA forums, I was able to find a few versions of the Google Camera ports for the Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite.
As of 13 November 2019, Google Camera 7.2 and 7.0 Ports for Xiaomi Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite are available for download. v7.2 ports are only compatible with Android 10, while v7.0 ports can be installed on both Android 9 Pie and Android 10. Thanks to Kwanthay for tipping us!
General advice: Not all GCam Ports are perfect, some features like NightSight and HDR+ might be buggy on some ports, while not on some others. I have tried and gathered the most stable ones as recommended by the users themselves on XDA forums. Start by trying the first port listed and move down to test other versions until you find the one that works best for you.
Google Camera 7.2.011 Ports:
Google Camera 7.0.009 Ports:
- GCam_v7.0.009-v4.4.apk (by Urnyx05)
- PMGC_7.0.009_Astrophoto_Version_V12.apk | Config file
- DMGC_7.0.009_ver.0.3-dogfood.apk (by the_dise)
Google Camera 6.2.030 Ports:
- Gcam_6.2.030_Advanced_V2.2.190716.1800-Final.apk (by Arnova8G2)
- GCam-6.2.030_Arnova8G2_Urnyx05-v2.4.apk (by Urnyx05)
- DMGC_6.2.030_ver.1.6-PE.apk (by the_dise)
Google Camera 6.1.021 Ports:
How to Install
- Download Google Camera Port for Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite
- Open a file manager app on the phone
- Navigate to the location where the APK file was downloaded
- Tap on the APK file to install Google Camera Port on Xiaomi Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite
- Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation
- Once Google Camera has been installed, go to the app drawer and launch it
Below are some Recommended Settings to help you smoothly run Google Camera on your Mi A2 (Go to Settings > Advanced):
- Base:
- Interface Style: Pixel 3
- Config: Auto
- Back Camera: Pixel 3 XL
- Front Camera: Nexus 6P
- Libs: Stock by Eszdman v3
So, this was how you can enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite and install Google Camera Port on it. If you have any questions, please leave them down in the comments.
Hello Dhananjay,
Thank you so much for this details step-by-step guide. I had bought the xiaomi a2 lite recently, I love everything out of it but not the camera. Now I have this camera installed and it is so much better. I am working in the field of software also but I focus in web development. Man, really appreciate your work! Hat off to you. I wish you all the best in your future! Cheer!
Hi Marcus. I am glad my tutorial was helpful. Thank you so much for the kind words! These sorts of comments keep me going. All the best to you too, my friend.
Does get the gcam to work.
But bootloader remains unlocked, what is the problem?
After executing the commands in the termux, what else do i need to do to make sure bootloader is locked.
Just reboot?
Hi CLS. The bootloader needs to be kept unlocked. Or else, the camera2 API changes would be undone, and you will not be able to use GCam.
The command in this tutorial will finally unroot your phone. They wouldn’t help you re-lock the bootloader.
If you don’t want to use GCam and want to re-lock the bootloader, then let me know. I will help you do it.
sir all is ok just how to patch the stock image i tried it couple of time but when phone restart bootloader show the error also oem has tobe kept unlocked in developer option?
Hi Mitul. I am sorry, but I didn’t understand the first part of your question fully. Could you please elaborate?
As for OEM Unlock, yes, it needs to be kept enabled.
Hey Dhananjay !
Thanks for such a detailed and up to date guide ! I was extremely surprised to see patches even for the latest month ! Kudos to you for being so active in the comments section and extensively helping everyone in the process.
I haven’t yet unlocked the bootloader and tried this, but I will, in the future !
Thanks for this post and all your hardwork 🙂
Hi Suraj. Thank you for all the kind words! I am so happy that you took the time just to appreciate my work. That means a lot.
And yes, do let me know when you try it. If you need any help, I am always here.
I need a patched boot image for 9.6.9.0. Can you help with that?
Hi Shashank. Yes, I will help for sure. Please let me know which device you’re using? Is it the Mi A2 or the Mi A2 Lite?
Hey, can you tell how much time it usually takes for the boot image being released after a new update? I just installed the november update and wanted to try this.
Thanks
Hi JadC. I have uploaded the new images. Please check now.
As for the time-frame, there’s no exact time. It all depends on how soon someone shares the full OTA package or a Fastboot image. Once I get my hands on that, I instantly extract the stock boot image, patch it via the latest version of Magisk, and add the download links to this post.
Hey, i got camera api enable but Netflix is not in the playstore, so i tried flashing stock boot and it didn’t work.
I used fastboot flash bot stock_boot.img.
And i also tried download the apk from the netlix page but a message about incompatibility appears with i try open it. however, I like Gcam, I thought it wouldn’t work, thank you.
Hi Felipe. Netflix wasn’t visible on the Play Store because of Google Play Protect certification.
After finishing with the method, did you reboot your phone?
Hi Dhananjay,
It is unbelievable how a sub 15k phone can be turned into a beast camera phone using GCam, and all thanks to you for making that possible! I have been enjoying the feature for over 5 months but recently I noticed that my camera is taking blurred out pictures on one side. I looked up and found that its a common hardware problem with Mi A2 devices. Fortunately, my phone is still under warranty and I need to relock my bootloader to claim the same. Honestly, I am a newbie. Could you please give me a detailed step-wise description on how I can relock my bootloader?
Thanks a lot again for the work you have done and the kind of extended support you have been providing.
Hi Shrey. Thanks for the kind words.
Before you proceed to relock, are you sure that your device is not rooted or doesn’t have any other sort of modifications?
Yes Dhananjay. The only procedure I have ever carried out on my phone is temporarily rooting it as directed in this article.
Yes. Except following the steps mentioned in this article to temporarily root the phone, I haven’t made any modifications.
Hi Dhananjay, I haven’t made any modifications. Could you please help? My warranty is about to expire soon.
Hi, again Shrey. Great! Now, first of all, let me know exactly which command did you use to unlock the bootloader in the first place? Was it “fastboot oem unlock” or “fastboot flashing unlock”?
I’m not very certain as I did it long time ago. But I strongly feel it was “fastboot OEM unlock”.
Hi again Shrey. Yes, then “fasboot oem lock” should allow you to re-lock your phone’s bootloader.
Is that all I need to do? Thanks a lot for the help. I was of the impression that I need to boot it with stock image again.
Yes, that’s all you’d need to do. As for the stock boot image, you already have it installed, don’t you?
Hi Dhananjay! I just went on and executed “fastboot oem lock” command. It worked and the bootloader locked. Just got my camera module replaced from the service centre! Thanks a lot for the help.
Now, when I was trying to follow the steps to enable camera2 api again, I couldn’t find magisk manager in the app drawer. I am stuck at step 12. Please guide on how can I install magisk manager?
For now, I am flashing the stock image again.
Hi Shrey! That’s great news.
Now, you have to unlock the bootloader again, and then proceed with the steps.
In case, after booting with the Patched Boot Image, Magisk Manager isn’t installed automatically. Then download the APK directly from here and install it manually.
I tried downloading the apk version 7.4.0 and installed it. When I opened the app, it said Magisk is not installed. I am not sure how to install it. Please help
Hi again, Shrey. Magisk will show as installed only when your phone is booted with the Patched Boot Image.
Hi Dhananjay! Thank you so much for all your support! I was able to successfully enable camera2api and i have GCam back on my phone. Kudos to you!
Hi again Shrey. I am glad you were able to enable it without any problems. Good luck and thanks for the kind words.
Hi, I followed your tutorial and Gcam is working nicely on my Mi A2, so that’s really cool…but now I’m having problems with Safety Net. Everything checks out except I get a CTS profile match fail. Magisk is no longer installed and I checked for root and it says the phone is not rooted. Could this be because of the unlocked bootloader? I had a Samsung galaxy watch connected to my phone and now it won’t let me install the galaxy wearable app. Is the any fix for this that doesn’t involve relocking the bootloader?
Hi Theresa. That’s odd. SafetyNet should pass since you do not have any modifications done to the phone. Have you tried flashing the stock boot image?
Also, when you mentioned “it won’t let me install the galaxy wearable app”, did you mean that the app is not visible in the Play Store? Or it doesn’t open/run after installing?
Hi Dhananjay, I did a SafetyNet test, and everything passed except for the CTS profile, which is weird, since, as you said, I haven’t made any modifications to the phone. No, I haven’t tried flashing the stock boot image yet. But If I do that, will the Camera2 api still work, or will all the settings be erased? The galaxy wearable app is in my app library, but it says it’s not compatible with my phone. Before locking the bootloader and enabling Camera2 it worked fine. I have been able to install the apk from another source, so if there’s no other way around the issue, I may just leave it, since I really like Gcam. From what I’ve read, the Galaxy wearable app on the play store won’t work if SafetyNet doesn’t pass. All my other apps work fine, but I don’t know if this will give me trouble with any apps that I might want to install in the future
Hi, again Theresa. Please try flashing the stock boot image and check again for SafetyNet. Let me know how it goes.
Patched Boot Image V10.0.16.0.PDIMIXM ( 5 October 2019 Update) ?
Hi. Do you mean the recently rolled out bug-fix update for the Mi A2 (jasmine_sprout)? Am I right?
my MI A2 version number is V10.0.16.0.PDIMIXM (October 5, 2019 update)
Want to know if I can use this boot image of yours? V10.0.15.0.PDIMIXM (October 2019 update)
No. Do not use that. I have been able to get my hands on the stock boot image of V10.0.16.0 for the Mi A2. However, I couldn’t find the time yet to patch it.
You can download the stock boot from here and patch it using the instructions (Method 2) in this post.
I’ll wait for you to make it available patched boot image V10.0.16.0 for the Mi A2
help me need pacth boot v10.0.16.0 for mi a2 lite
Hi Jimy. I have updated the post with the images, please refresh the page and check again.
yes thanks
Hi Dhananjay! I followed your instructions and now I am able to enjoy Gcam on my Mi A2. Thanks for this step by step procedure. You have really written it in a lucid and at the same time in a detailed manner with the required links for all the drivers and software making it a one stop solution for anybody who wants to enjoy Gcam without root. Appreciate your work here.
The only place I had an issue was when after booting into the the patch image I was not able to install the full Magisk Manager app on my phone. It always encountered an error (Error while downloading Magisk) when downloading/updating the full app after clicking Yes. I tried manually uninstalling and installing from the above mentioned link but I was getting the same error. I even tried different older versions but was not able to install.
Then I thought it’s better to start from Step 1 and repeat the same procedure again. I did it and voila! after the boot it was already showing the full app installed (don’t know how.) Finally! And yes everything is working as before all the banking apps etc. I am using the DMGC_6.2.030_ver.1.6-PE.apk as I tried the latest ver. 7 but didn’t find it stable. This version is working fine for me without any issues. Everything works. Photos obviously look more natural and detailed as compared to stock camera. The only downside is that I can’t take 20MP photos now won’t be able to utilize the full potential of the sensor because every Gcam supports upto 12MP pictures only.
Anyways! Thanks again
Hi Hussain. Thank you for such kind words! This means the world to me, to be competent enough to be able to write articles that could help others.
The issue could have been a faulty boot, it could happen, like in your case. I am glad you figured it out by yourself.
As for GCam v7, give a try to the latest one from here, and use the device-specific config file from here. It might give you a more stable camera experience.
Thanks again! As I check there were config files for Mi A2 lite and not the regular Mi A2. Could you please check?
Hi again, Hussain. Yes, I know, but it is worth trying. Start without the config and see if you get optimal results. If not, then try the config. If it doesn’t work, then you can always clear the app’s data from the Settings to remove the config.
Hi there! Just wanted to run by a couple of things before I attempt this!
When attempting this, it won’t restore my phone to factory defaults and remove all my data right?
Also, do I need to have developer mode/tools activated?
Thank you! Looking forward to your reply!
Hi Mirage. Sure, I have answered both your questions below.
1) No, it won’t do either. However, as always, I would still suggest keeping your important data always backed up.
2) No, there’s no need to enable any special modes/tools in the OS.
Now before you proceed, I have a question for you as well. Do you have your phone’s bootloader unlocked? Because if that’s the case, then the answers to both your questions will change.
If it’s already unlocked, then you can safely go ahead.
Hello bro, There are 4 commands that you have stated in the above Procedure. Do i have to enter all the 4 commands or just any one of them? pls reply. Thank u
Hi Shahi. You have to enter all 4 of them, one after the other in the given order.
After you enter the first command, it will just enter into the next line, where you’ll enter the second command, and further the same should be done for the third and fourth commands.
october patched and boot image?
Hi! It is available for the Mi A2 Lite for now. Courtesy of Nico van Draanen!
hi does banking and payment apps such as Google Pay still work after the process? Can anybody confirm?
Hi Hussain. Yes, they’ll work.
I did the whole process and the camera worked, the problem is that even after restarting the phone, the root check still point the cell as rooted
Sorry I ended up getting the root, now another doubt: Will the unlocked OEM cause problems in OTA updates or not?
Hi again, Alex. No, the unlocked bootloader does not affect OTA updates at all. Even if your phone was rooted, it is quite easy to install OTA updates while still retaining root after the update.
Hi Alex. Being rooted and simply having Magisk Manager installed are two different things. Once you rebooted your phone after the process, did you open Magisk Manager to check if Magisk (i.e. root) was installed?
Me doy cuenta que al bootear el img reinicia mi cel pero al parecer no hace lo que debe ya que al instalar magisk manager me dice que magisk no está instalado, y de ahi no paso no puedo conceder permisos a termux
Hi Victor, when you execute the “fastboot boot” command, what result do you see in the PowerShell window?
hago todos los pasos pero cuando se reinicia mi ce no esta la app de magisk asi que la descargo como apk y al instalar me dice que ya esta actualizada y que magisk no esta instalado. tengo que instalar magisk tmb o como?
Hello sir,
How do I perform a full backup of my device first before I perform this guide? Thanks in advance! 🙂
Hi Archie. We already have a guide here that explains it all. Although it needs updating, but the existing instructions will ensure that all your data is backed up.
And, you’re most welcome!
Hello sir, after step#18 I’ll just close the cmd/powershell, disconnect the USB from my phone then reboot my phone like usual? It will boot to the stock image with the data wiped clean? No need to manually uninstall Magisk and termux?
Thank you again 😉
Hi again Archie. Yes, just reboot and Magisk will be automatically uninstalled and your phone will be unrooted.
The data will not be wiped at all. The data is only wiped when you have to unlock the bootloader. If it’s already unlocked, then nothing will be wiped.
However, I still recommend taking a backup. Just to safeguard it.
When your phone boots back you can open Magisk Manager (if it’s still installed) and it will show that Magisk is not installed on your phone. This will confirm that Magisk has been removed completely. You can then safely uninstall Magisk Manager, as well as Termux.
bahut dhanyavaad, Dhananjay sir 🙂
You’re welcome, Archie! If you have any further questions, do let me know.
I receive this message on step 9: PS C:\adb> .\fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.14.0_mi_a2.img
Sending ‘boot.img’ (29929 KB) FAILED (Write to device failed (Too many links))
fastboot: error: Command failed
I’m using the correct patch, bootloader is unlocked, USB debugging enabled. Please help.
Hi John. The error you mentioned is commonly caused by using USB 3.0 ports. Reboot your PC, try using a different port and let me know how it goes.
hi, i am on v10.0.14.0, Mi A2, and i’m stuck on step 7, as when i modify the code and type itin it says: no such file or directory. What should i do?
Hi Claudio. Did you open the PowerShell window in the same folder where the patched boot image was downloaded?
Secondly, what was the exact name of the file that you downloaded?
Hola de nuevo! Aunque la activarán como hay que dejar el teléfono para que no le pase nada habiendo activado la camera api mediante el sistema unroot. Habría que desbloquear el gestor de arranque o podríamos actualizar directamente como estamos?
Hi. Once you have unlocked the bootloader, follow this method to enable camera2 API on your phone. At the end of the process, you will need to reboot your phone. Rebooting will unroot your phone and camera2 API will still be enabled. So, you can then go ahead and install the Google Camera Port.
Make sure to keep the bootloader unlocked. Locking it back will disable the Camera2 API again.
As for OTA updates, if you have followed this method, you can install OTA normally without any problems. The unlocked bootloader does not affect OTAs.
Yo me refiero a android 10. ¿Habría alguna consecuencia?
No, it won’t. When the Android 10 OTA arrives, you will be able to install it normally on your Mi A2 device.
Hola! Pero cuando llegue android 10 también podremos actualizar sin problema?
Hi Pepe. Of course you can. The method only temporarily roots your phone until the required commands are executed. Once done, a simple reboot will unroot your phone.
Also, an unlocked bootloader will not prevent you from installing the Android 10 OTA update (when it is released).
Successfully installed. I love “Try Night Sight”. It’s incredible. Thanks a lot.
Great! And you’re welcome Kwanthay. Enjoy GCam now. If you find a more recent/better version for your device, do let me know so that I can put up the link in the post for others.
Sure Mr. Dhananjay.
Below is the link of gcam for mi a2.
https://f.celsoazevedo.com/file/cfiles/gcm1/DMGC_7.0.009_ver.0.3-dogfood.apk
Thanks for that Kwanthay! I have updated the post with the link.
Sir, editing the build.prop can modify the system isn’t it? So even we unroot we can’t receive updates or even if we update it the device can end up in bootloop isn’t it?
Yes, that’s correct. However, when we use “setprop”, it doesn’t actually modify the build.prop in the /system partition, rather store the properties in the /data partition (Reference).
The method used here is fully compliant with OTA updates. If we would have actually modified the build.prop, the installation would fail. I have followed this same method on my sibling’s Mi A1 and there have never been a problem with OTA updates. I began by flashing the stock firmware to both the slots first, and then used the method to enable Camera2 API and subsequently install GCam.
In case of most users the cause of the OTA installation problem is that they have some modifications present in the inactive slot, where the OTA would be installed.
For instance, if someone installed Magisk on their phone, but then decide to unroot. In such cases, one should first disable and uninstall all the Magisk Modules completely, followed by a reboot. Then perform a complete uninstall via Magisk Manager. One should also take note of any other sort of modifications that have been applied.
For example, they downloaded the Kernel Adiutor or FK Kernel Manager app (both of which require root) and tweaked their kernel a bit. If the user misses to restore those modifications, then even if they had Magisk root completely removed, the OTA will fail.
My point is: Users often overlook the information provided within tutorials and sometimes even fail to understand the procedure in the first place, and head straight to the instructions. This is why, several of our readers have succeeded with these instructions and are still able to take OTA updates without any problems, while others have not.
I wouldn’t blame them. the A/B partition concept is not easy to understand when it comes to custom development.
I have been in the same boat like others, back when Froyo was the latest version available. Didn’t read the provided information and often overlooked how the procedure works. It has taught me a great amount of lessons. That’s why, I always try to provide information about the procedure, before writing the instructions in my posts.
Thank you for your support,sir.
You’re welcome, Gayanuka!
Shall I backup my build.prop via a root explorer and restore it later again with the root explorer?I want to enable AR mode on some games like Gcam stickers,CSR2,Porche mission E.The game needs camera2api,arcore and must change the device to a Pixel XL or else it won’t work.So will I do it?Sir,
Let us make it even easier. Your phone is rooted with Magisk, right?
If so, then follow the instructions above from step #15 to 18. This will enable Camera2 API.
Next, go to Magisk Manager > Downloads and install the ‘ARCore/Playground Patcher’ module by macrant01 and finally reboot your phone. This module will enable ARCore support, so that you can download the official ARCore app from the Play Store (Or you can manually get the APK from here as well). Next, it will also subsequently add support for AR Stickers (now known as “Playground”). Get the patched Playground APK from here.
Why I am suggesting this procedure? It will make OTA installation much more easier and quick. So, you wouldn’t have to restore build.prop or do any thing. When an OTA arrives, simply disable and uninstall the module, then follow the instructions here.
I tried it Sir it changed my finger print to Pixel 2 and I was able to install ARcore and Playgrounds officially via playstore but AR apps didn’t work,it shows the device is supported but it’s not working.The grids are not showing on AR apps.I saw something weird has happened when I go to the settings I saw my security patch has changed to September 5 2019 to August 1 2019 so I think it’s working up to August 1 2019.I found a module called daydreambypass on a website.The website is mentioned as the module works up to Oreo but it worked to Pie.All AR apps got worked and my device model has changed to Pixel XL but I faced an issue again.when I placed the AR model it won’t stay in one place it starting to fly away when I get close to it.I don’t know the reason.If you know anything sir you can help me, thanks!
Thank you sir, Before following this method I was using a magisk module to make camera2api working but I followed your steps and enabled camera2api with the help of termux.Still I didn’t got AR working anyway I got at least Gcam working.I’ll find a way myself to get AR working,thank you for your support sir.If you know anything about AR working on mi A2 help me by replying thank you so much sir.
Hi. Thanks for the input, I will investigate more about the ARCore/Playground patcher, in case it has any issues working on the latest Pie code. If you’re facing this issue, then I am sure it is something that others would be facing too.
Ping me back tomorrow, just for a reminder, and I will look into it.
Thank you sir
Hi again. Please try the modified Playground app from here after you have installed the ARCore/Playground Patcher module and rebooted your phone.
I downloaded the playgrounds app provided by you and I installed it with ARcore/Playground patcher and AR stickers worked on Gcam without crashing but this is not the issue.The AR model doesn’t stay in one place it just fly away and disappear.The issue is only with the ARcore app or the module is not supported to MI A2 rom.I tried different AR apps like Porche mission E,sketchfab etc..but it doesn’t work.I am not telling AR apps crashing.The apps launch fine but grids doesn’t show and the model doesn’t stay in one place and even the apps gets hard to detect the surface even I hold my MI A2 on a table or to the floor.What I think is the ARcore doesn’t support on this stock MI A2 rom,maybe flashing a custom rom like Havoc OS or Pixel Experience can get a success.I have seen Pixel experience rom gets used on many ARcore tutorials.They just edit the build.prop using a build prop editor and they add a file called calibration.xml on “/system/etc/” and they convert their phone into a Pixel XL.I found some magisk modules do the same process adding the calibration.xml and changing the device to Pixel XL and the magisk successfully changed my model to Pixel XL and added calibration.xml on the same path I mentioned before.I still used the stock rom so I still got the same issue like before.I don’t know the reason why this won’t work on Mi A2 even magisk modules enabled.Tell me whether if you have a Mi A2 did “ARcore/playgrounds patcher” work for you? tell me about yours.I don’t know these modules won’t work for me.I thought to flash twrp and install Pixel experience on Mi A2.I still didn’t tried it but my mind is forcing me to do it.If I want to restore my device I’ll flash stock rom and stock recovery.The Google ARcore is just like a pain in my Ass so I’ll try my best to get success.Thank you for your support sir.
Well, I don’t have my Mi A2 anymore. Just my sibling’s Mi A1 and the Mi A3 that I bought recently. The tricks that I mentioned above works just fine on the Mi A1 which is rooted with Magisk and is still on stock ROM. No issues like you have mentioned.
On the other hand, the Mi A3 completely supports ARCore, so I have no troubles there as well.
I think trying with a custom ROM would be a good idea. Or, restore the stock firmware completely and start afresh with my trick.
BTW before that, use Termux and execute this command: setprop persist.camera.eis.enabled 1
Then reboot your phone and try the same AR setup again as I mentioned. See if it helps.
I tried but didn’t work I ‘ll try installing custom rom thank you sir.
Sure. Let me know how it goes.
My version is 10.0.14.0 PDIMIXM. Could you pls send image file for that version?
Hi. I have updated the download links, please check again.
Thank you very much!
You’re welcome, Kwanthay!
Hola! Quisiera saber ahora que llega él nuevo android 10 que hay que hacer para no caer en un brink teniendo habilitado camera api con el método no root y bootloader desbloqueado.
Un saludo
Hi Pepe. It depends upon Xiaomi. If they decide tho make camera2 API enabled by default in Android 10, then it would save a lot of hassle.
I have enable camera 2 api by following your methods. thanks for that. now the problem is when i try to update my phone on august patch it cannot be updated and show a message called “installation problem”. that is a one issue.
Also when I try to update after showing September security patch update result was same. now I cannot install security updates.
Hi Kalana. That’s because the there were modifications found on the inactive slot. Did you root your phone (Permanently) using Magisk before August, or installed TWRP?
No. I just followed your instructions on how to imstall gcam using custom boot img. I only did as you have explained in the tutorial.
Hi Kalana, did you follow the same instructions before installing the September update?
Hi Dhanajay,
First of all- Thank you much for this guide!! After some initial hang ups, I managed to get it Gcam installed, and it is working great. It really is crazy how good this software is for taking photos.
I just have a quick question, as this the first time I have tweaked any part of the android system, I’m not entirely sure what I should expect in the future with the changes I made to the system. I followed you instructions all the way through and everything is good- phone is no longer rooted. But, my bootloader is still unlocked, and I was reading around and supposedly that’s enough to prevent OTA updates to the phone? Part of the reason I was psyched on this phone was because of the whole “Android One” thing, so I was still hoping to receive those updates, without having to jump through hoops. It’s not the end of the world, but it would be nice to continue to receive OTA updates.
So, yeah- just curious if the unlocked bootloader prevents future updates.
Thanks again, for this great guide, Dhananjay:D
–Les
Hi i want to sell my mi a2 and now i want to lock the bootloader.
Please explain how to lock bootloader …???
Hi Akhil. First, let me know if the phone is rooted or is running complete stock firmware?
Hey Dhananjay! Thanks for the detailed guide. I know it’s a bit of a noob question but do you think that this method of yours may cause bootloop? Cause this is my new device and I don’t really want to mess it up but then I also want GCAM. So I just wanted to know if going wrong at any step may cause a potential bootloop or has anyone reported about their phone going into a bootloop? Thank you in advance! 🙂
Hi Manish. It wouldn’t unless you try to boot a patched boot image of a different software version.
But I don’t want to leave to just that answer. If ever, you mistakenly face a bootloop issue while using this method, then you can easily recover your device by flashing the stock boot image. That’s the reason why I have provided download links to the official stock boot images as well.
If you still have any doubts or get stuck anywhere, feel free to reach out to me by commenting here. I will always be there to help.
Hi everyone who have had problems with termux su command.
I got it also, after couple hours of digging internet and trying eventually. I solved it.
If you tried it couple time so its meaning you have magisc and termux installed on your phone.
So then follow instructions of Dhanajay. Just boot patched image one more time through fastboot, then go to!! termux and you will got grand permission prompt. Then put su in termux you will see result. I used last August 5 patched core and mi a2. If there’s no grand permission, then try it again to fastboot it. Good luck everyone. And a lot of thanks to author
Hi Andre. Thanks for digging into it and providing a possible solution.
I entered “su” in termux. Got “Permission denied”.
Then I tapped magisk manager in app drawer, it says “Upgrade to full Magisk Manager to finish the setup. Download and Install?”. I can’t get to settings of magisk manager like you said in the other comments here.
I’m stuck. What do i do?
P.s. I don’t want my phone permanently rooted.
Yes, upgrade to full “Magisk Manager” only. You’ll be then asked about permissions on Termux, grant them and it’s done.
Udbhav, Paul is right. When you boot with the patched image, only the Magisk Manager stub is installed. Once you open Magisk Manager and install it, it will then work properly.
Thanks Paul for clearing out the air and also for taking the time to help others around the blog. Highly appreciated.
I will update the instructions shortly.
I have enable camera 2 api by following your methods. thanks for that. now the problem is when i try to update my phone on august patch it cannot be updated and show a message called “installation problem”. that is a one issue. also there is an another issue. after enabled the feature i could not open my banking app. message was shown ” your device seems to be rooted”. Please help me….
after boot with stock boot img that banking app issue was corrected. but still i cannot install OTA updates
It seems like the inactive slot has some sort of modification present. That’s why the update is failing to install.
Hello, I want to Enable Camera2 API on Xiaomi Mi A2 with the 10.0.13.0.Version of Patched Boot Image but I need help by Step 9.
I don’t know the name of the Command I should use.
Hi Ayni. You have to execute all the mentioned commands in the given order.
Hello
I have enabled the Gcam in June and I was able to get the July security patch but I’m not able to download the August one. What do I do? I have tried repeating the whole process to see if I could do anything. I rebooted the phone after the process, so Magisk is uninstalled and the Gcam is working fine. Any tips to get the updates again?
P.S. Magisk in uninstalled but still on my app drawer.
Bye
Hi MG. During the June update, did you make any modifications via Magisk Module or Magisk Hide? Also, go the app drawer, launch Magisk Manager, and then let me know if it shows that Magisk is installed or not?
Hello.
I’m not sure if I’ve done anything wrong but I’m not able to install the August security patch. My phone says it’s updated with the July security patch. Is there a fix?
I enabled Gcam in June, and I was able to download the July update. Why can’t I download the August one?
P.S. The Gcam is fine and Magisk is still on my app drawer but when I open it, it says that it is uninstalled.
Great tutorial btw
i’m waiting for V10.0.13.0 August boot image
Hi Sachin. The August patched boot for the Mi A2 is now up. I am still waiting to get my hands on the Mi A2 Lite boot image, once it is available.
Hi Dhananjay. I’ve followed all of your steps successfully but the camera 2 api is not enabled yet. Can you tell me the reason. Also, do I need to flash stock boot image to get Ota updates?
Hi Afzal. After following the complete procedure, rebooting your phone, did you try install a Google Camera port on it?
Also, this method simply boots the patched boot (does not flash it), which means, after rebooting, root will be gone. And thus, no need to restore stock image unless you accidentally used the “fastboot flash boot” command instead of “fastboot boot”.
i’m waiting for V10.0.13.0 August boot images 🙂
Hi,
It seems strange but my phone seems to be running 10.0.13.0 PDIMIXM.
Is there any ETA on when its modified boot image will be uploaded?
I cannot give super user permission for termux and also I cannot install magisk. when install magisk via magisk manager it was shown a message unsupported/unknown image format like that
Hi. Nice tutorial. Sorry for the question but for those who dont have temporary but definitive root and bootloader already unlocked, and after changing the prop lines, how to continue receiving ota updates? I need to unroot my device too?
Hi. Thanks for the appreciation.
If you choose that method, then you will first need to undo the build.prop changes, and disable ‘n’ completely uninstall any Magisk Modules.
The next step depends on how you have rooted your phone – (1) By flashing the zip via TWRP or (2) By flashing the patched boot image to the currently active slot?
In the case of the first, you will need to make a complete uninstall via Magisk and then restore the stock boot image, just to be sure. Once that is done, installing the OTA wouldn’t be a problem.
For second case, you can simply follow the instructions here, provided directly by topjohnwu himself.
Thanks Dhananjay! I opted to completely uninstall Magisk and then use ur method to enable camera2 and leave my device unroot. It worked well. But now about new ota updates… before installing them i’ll have to change the values by termux again to keep the system unchanged?
Hi again. The benefit of using this method is that your phone is not rooted and thus installing the OTA wouldn’t require any extra effort.
Although, once you have updated, you will need to re-do the procedure with the patched boot image of the new firmware version. Doesn’t take more than a few minutes once you get hold of the process.
hi. I did this method some time back, but the root remained after restarting. I didn’t solve it because I missed it. but now came the ota update and I can’t install it. in magisk manager I did exactly what other tutorials write. but I don’t know exactly how to undo the commands I put in Termux. thank you for all the advice
Hi Gorgo. Could you please go to the app drawer and see if Magisk Manager is still there? If it is, then open it and let me know if it shows that Magisk is installed or not.
you asked if I had magisk manager installed. yes, I have. but at the same time I tried to uninstall it. I clicked on “restore images” as other tutorials say when I want to install ota while leaving magisk and root on the device. so I did, but ota update still couldn’t be installed. I also read that if there are any changes to the system, for example in Termux, I need undo all the changes. and that’s exactly the problem, I don’t know how, and I don’t know if it’s possible at all. my friend told me that a hard reset should solve it, what do you think? thanks a lot for your help.
10.12 hyperlinks are exchanged. You may need to correct it
Hi Tushar. Thanks for notifying.
BTW, did you mean the mirror links for the Mi A2? If so, then those have been corrected.
Sorry for the short comment. Yes the hyperlinks for Mi A2 stock & patched images were interchanged. Its looks Ok now. I have folllowed your steps and happily using cam2api. Many Thanks.
Is there any way to get rid of the black warning screen & ‘Unlocked’ label which appears during boot.
Any luck with patched img for Pie August security update?
Hi again Tushar. First off, I am happy that the instructions proved useful to you.
As for the bootloader warning, you will need to cope with it. It just goes away in a few seconds, right? Not big of a problem I think. If you were ever about to sale your phone, you can simply relock the bootloader and the warning message will be gone.
I am keeping an eye out for the August boot images. As soon as I have my hands on them, I will be updating this post.
Thanks! After a little issue it worked.
First time I tried and I got stuck in the 13 step, the Termux app was not showing the option to allow super user after type su and press enter. Then, I installed the Magisk Manager and the Termux app worked properly. Thanks guys for the comments.
And Dhananjay, if you know a metod to remove that message of bootloader unlocked on the boot screen, please let us know. Thanks Again.
Hi Guize. Thanks for the confirmation. I will make sure to edit the steps and add what solution you offered, in case anyone else falls into the same situation.
As for the message, I am afraid that can only be removed once you relock the bootloader. But if you do that, you will lose the Camera2 API values that you adjusted, and thus no GCam.
I think the message won’t be a problem and simply goes away in a few seconds when you boot.
Exactly what happened to me.
Got stuck at Step 13 because Termux wasn’t asking for root permission auth. Just needed to install Magisk Manager by clicking on its app icon (which shows up in your app list / drawer after flashing the patched boot.img) and that was it.
Thanks for the tip.
hey Dhananjay thanks for the work,
somehow I just get to step 14. I type in the 4 commands into Termux and than nothing happens but also no error is showing so I Exit and reboot and when I check with the camera 2 api app just Level 3 is green the rest is still red, and when I install the Gcam app it obviously chrases, so it seems the 4 commands did not work. Do you know what could be the mistake I made?
Thanks
>Greetings
Hi Alex. Was Termux able to gain superuser permissions properly?
Actually, that’s what is supposed to happen. The commands won’t give out anything as resultant, just the next line. If that was so then the commands were successful. And Level 3 of the API is what you need. If it is marked with the green tick, it means that the API was enabled successfully.
Once you have enabled the API, reboot your phone. Then try a different version of the port:
1) Arnova’s Advanced v1.7 or v2.2: Download Link
2) Dise’s v1.6: Download Link
Sir, Patched boot 10.0.10.0 mi A2 it’s not working properly.
i’ve checked rootchecker and it’s said ” root acces is not properly installed on this devices”.
can you help me ? thank you
i’ve flashed with fastboot 2 times and still not working for me..
help mee , thank you
Hi. Once booted with the Patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager, open the app’s menu and tap on ‘Superuser’. Grant the access to Termux and try again. See if this helps.
There’s no option ‘ supersu’ for me ?
Hi again. Once boot with patched boot, launch Magisk Manager and tap on the menu icon (3 lines) on the top-right, you should see the ‘Superuser’ option there.
If not, then go to the Magisk Manager settings, and let me know what the Update Channel is set to.
Hallo sir,, i need patched_boot Juli v10.0.12.0
Thanks
Hi. As soon as I get hands on the full OTA or fastboot image, I will be posting the download links for V10.0.12.0 boot images.
Can you make a video on this please for mi a2
Hi Dhananjay, with this procedure, when I reboot the phone, everything comes back normal? Don’t I lose my configuration, photos, videos, documents and apps?
thank you
Hi. Yes, everything stays intact once you reboot. Although, note that when you unlock the bootloader, everything on the phone including the internal storage will be wiped completely.
If you already have unlocked the bootloader, nothing will be wiped. However, I would still recommend taking a full backup beforehand, just in case anything goes sideways.
Yo Bro, Can you Give Me A Stable version of gcam working on mi a2 lite ?
Hi. The latest ones that are compatible with the Mi A2 Lite have been linked towards the end of the post. Please have a look.
FYI, there’s no perfect GCam out there, you have to try a few before you can get one that works the best for you case.
sorry to inform you, but termux didn’t get the su permission.
i’m have used june 2019 v10.0.10.0 patched img properely without any error but there wasn’t any prompt for asking su permission on termux.
any solution?
Hi Jubaer. The instructions have been revised. Please follow them again and you will not face any issues regarding su permissions.
Hi Dhananjay,
I am entirely new to this process, so please bear with me.
I have successfully unlocked the phone’s bootloader and also installed Magisk v19.3 version. I also downloaded the patched boot image and stock boot image for V10.0.10.0. for Mi A2.
Now coming to the steps for enabling Camera2 API, I am not able to move beyond the command
Fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.10.0_mi_a2.img in Powershell window.
It gives me the following error.
downloading ‘boot.img’…
FAILED (command write failed (unknown error))
finished. total time : – 0.000s
I will be grateful for your suggestions and guidance to help me move forward.
Thanks in advance.
Karan
Hi Karan. Welcome to the community! You will need to unlock your phone’s bootloader first before you could follow this procedure. Have you done that?
astboot : The term ‘fastboot’ is not recognized as the name of a cmdlet, function, script file, or operable program.
Check the spelling of the name, or if a path was included, verify that the path is correct and try again.
At line:1 char:1
+ fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.10.0_mi_a2_lite.img
+ ~~~~~~~~
+ CategoryInfo : ObjectNotFound: (fastboot:String) [], CommandNotFoundException
+ FullyQualifiedErrorId : CommandNotFoundException
how can i solved this im stuck at this
Hi Yuri. Try using “.\fastboot boot” instead of just “fastboot boot” in the command.
Good morning, after following the tutorial will I continue to receive updates via OTA? For the constant updates were the reason for the school for Mi A2.
Ops… For the constant updates were the reason for the choosing for Mi A2.
Hi Gabriel. Yes, you will receive OTA updates normally. Through this method, we only temporarily root the device to execute the commands. Once the commands are successfully executed, you will need to reboot your phone to unroot.
Once that is done, and an OTA arrives, you can install it manually.
Hi, I did the June update on my Mi2. I wonder if Magisk v19.2 is for this update or do I have to wait for a next version of Magisk? Thank you!
It’s not working. I have a Mi A2 Lite with Android Pie on the May update and I’m struggling with versions 10.0.9.0 and 10.0.8.0 . It always says that the Magisk Manager is not installed and when I insert the code su on the Termux, it worked once. Then I would write the other lines of code from step 14 and rebooted. When the phone restarted, I went to the camera2 API Probe to find out it didn’t work. What do I do? I have tried a few times.
Hi MG. Did the commands execute properly without any problems? If yes, then download one of the GCam ports linked above, install it, and run it. See if Google Camera runs properly.
I’m not sure if the Termux commands worked. When I wrote setprop and the rest of the code, it said that there is no code called setprop and recommended me to use getprop, so I did. Then I wrote the code with getprop instead of setprop and it ”answered” me by repeating the number at the end of each line of code.
Now it’s saying ‘No su program on this device’. Why?
P.S: When I was booting up after I used the code in Powershell my phone showed me an error page that I had to control with the phone’s buttons. What am I doing wrong?
How did you solve this issue? setprop doesnt work for me
Hi Andrew, I have re-written the instructions. Please follow them. The issue was probably caused because full Magisk Manager wasn’t installed, and thus it couldn’t grant superuser permissions.
Nevermind, I got it!
Hay June patchboot proper work or not??
Hi Rahul. It does work.
hi sir i tried downloading patch12.0.12 for daisy but it didnt boot in its os rather it died. i can still open it though
Hi. Could you please let me know if you have the Mi A2 or the Mi A2 Lite?
Easiest way to enable camera2api could be installing build prop editor and then search for HAL3 and set the value from 0 to 1 for both the search results
This is an easy way compared to Termux
Hi Sandeep. Indeed, however, that will only work when the phone is rooted. The instructions here are for those who’d like to keep their phone unrooted.
BTW, thanks for sharing your input. It’d be helpful for the rooted users who visit this page.
Hello Sir,
In fact i followed your tutorial and succeeded in enabling camera2api and installed Gcam and clicking away pics like a Pro.
Thanx a million Bro for sharing this tutorials.
But the hardest part of your tutorial is the Termux part.That why i used build prop editor method..
Termux gives a hell a lot of errors ….its not impossible but definitely weird to follow.
Otherwise your tutorial is on spot.
Once again Thanks for sharing this piece of instructions for all android lovers..!
Hello sir, is July patch boot image out?
Hi. Yes, it is. Check out the Downloads section within the post.
How about update OTA?
Uninstall magisk? But i dont know which slot that when install magisk.
Hi Edo. If you used this method, then Magisk shouldn’t have been permanently installed. Can you see Magisk Manager in the phone’s app drawer?
To get root access in termux I had to open the magisk and it even asked to install the magisk apk. I did this and did not open the magisk and requested root access in termux and it worked, I rebooted and I was enabled Level_3. The magisk continued after rebooting the phone, but only continued because I installed apk magisk, I uninstalled the apk and magisk disappeared. I downloaded the root checker and it says that it does not have root. Is the device out of root or do I need to install stock_boot_10.0.10.0_mi_a2 by twrp to return to normal and receive Ota?
Hi Jean. That’s correct. I have updated the guide too because of this.
What happens is, when you boot your phone with Magisk-patched boot image, only the Magisk Manager stub is installed. You did it right.
Now if you go to Magisk Manager, you will see that it shows that Magisk is not installed. Simply uninstall Magisk Manager app since you don’t need it now. There’s no need to install the stock boot unless you flashed the patched boot and not temporarily booted it (like mentioned).
BTW, do you have TWRP installed?
Hi do I have to keep my boot loader unlocked for the rest of the time? I successfully done all and it worked but when I locked my bootloader then camera 2 api is not working anymore
Hi Nisar. Yes, you will need to keep it unlocked. Locking the bootloader will revert the changes. Despite, keeping the bootloader unlocked will not prevent you from taking OTA updates. You will still be able to install OTA updates normally.
After download June update its not installing my on mi a2 its show error message installation failed. How solve the problem, my phone bootloader is unlocked.
Hi Konak. Sorry for the delayed response. It’s quite hard for me to handle all the comments, but I still try to. Yours must have missed my attention.
Now, are you still facing the issue or is it resolved?
When I write “su” in “termux” program gives me a message “permission denied”
Hi Kareem. Once booted with Magisk, open Magisk Manager and go to its settings. In there, you will see the ‘Update Channel’. Let me know what’s selected in there?
Hi i am new user mi a2.
I try to following your guidr but when I use termux and type su, the message is permission denied.
Have a solution?
How to know the unlock bootloader and boot patched is success?
Hi Edo. I have revised the instructions and you will not face the permission denied error anymore.
To know if the process succeeded, simply try and install one of the recommended GCam ports. If it opens up, then for sure the process worked.
it shows magisk is not installed …wat to do now
Hi Rohan. Please go to Magisk Manager > Settings and let me the “Update Channel” that’s set there.
ALL DONE PERFECTLY!!! LOVE U BRO!
my device Mi A2 10.0.9.0
Hi. I am glad it worked! Enjoy GCam now.
hello i have done successfully with all working mod.. but i have questions will i get ota update ?? and can i use paytm phonePe Gpay etc with unlocked bootloader .. and one thing when i install termux and hit Su command nothing were happening then suddenly got popup to update magisk i click yes then it install magisk update then i again went to termux hit Su command then ask for permission to grant.. is there any issues ?? coz in ur post there is nothing like this ..
Hi Sameer. Kindly go to the Magisk Manager and uninstall Magisk completely from there. Once done, also restore the stock boot image (corresponding to the software version currently installed on the phone).
Once you have done this, let me know so that I can guide you further.
What he meant was that you cannot enter the Magisk settings. When he launches it, you beeing promt to install magisk from a unsecure source.
“No, thanks” doesnt let you enter settings.
Also not sure if temux needs installation first or is the app from playstore all you need..
Mi a2 pixel camera install how do….
Hi Peraveen. If you have already enabled Camera2 API via this method or any other, then you can simply download one of the provided GCam Port APKs and install it on your device.
I went to Termux, inserted the code su and it told me permission denied. Then, I went on Magisk Manager like you told another person on the comment section. The menu ‘Update Channel’ has the options: Stable, Beta and Personalized. Which should I pick and what do I do next?
Hi Dhananjay, thanks for this guide…
I’ve a problem; after having succesfully done all the steps and verified with Camera2 API Probe apk
the correct enabling of Camera2 API for my Mi A2 Lite, when I open the Gcam (I tried more then one version), after asking permissions at first installation, it crashes every time and never starts.
What could be the root cause?
Hi Enrico. There’s no stable Google Camera port for every device that supports all Android version. For eg. a GCam port might work on Android Oreo, but not on Pie, or vice-versa.
Let me know which port did you try and install on your device?
Hello, thanks for the tutorial. I rooted my Mi A2 using your guide! It all went down well. Next i wanted to unlock the Camera 2 API on my Mi A2 as well but however i do it i can’t get it to work. I searched for guides and you only have for the non-rooted version unfortunately.
What i actually did was to edit my build.prop and check that it was ok but it wasn’t. After that i installed a magisk module (C2API+GcamSlomo enabler v1500) and tried again, but once again i couldn’t get it to work. What can i do?
My phone is rooted, bootloader unlocked, TWRP inside.
Hi. If you have root, you can simply install Termux, execute the commands given above, and then reboot your phone. You should then have Camera2 API enabled on your phone.
hey buddy, awesome guide really appreciate it. noob question here: is it safe to do a factory reset and keep the gcam? mi a2 running V10.0.8.0.PDIMIXM bootloader still unlocked. i also noticed the oem unlock toggle dissapeared from dev opt?
Hi, I am using MI a2 with latest security update may 2019 and things went good until the bootloader unlock.
But thereafter while tried to boot using temporary boot, phone getting rebooted and while installed Termux, and creating super user by SU comment, it shows “no su program found”. Can you help me out on this?
Hi. Once you have booted the phone with the patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager > Settings and set the update channel to Beta. Then close and re-open Magisk, you should then have root access in Termux.
Note that this is only for the V10.0.8.0 image. From v10.0.9.0, ensure that the update channel is selected as “Stable” in Magisk Manager settings.
Hi,
I cannot download the latest patched_boot_10.0.9.0_mi_a2 .img. I tried the same even from XDA, but still failed. Can you please check whether the given link is working.
Hi,
I downloaded the above patch image from XDA. But when I enter su on Termux, it says denied. When I open the Magisk, it is asking whether to download and install the full Magisk manager to finish the setup. What should I do now? Please help
Hi. Are you sure that you booted the patched boot image via fastboot?
Hi
thanks for the tutorial
I followed all the steps and everything seems to work, never got an error but I have a question:
If I do a factory reset of the phone will the camera2 api turn unable again? or can I resest with confidence?
Hi Jaime. I am not sure that I have the confirmed answer to that. A factory reset should normally format the partitions and should not replace or change any system files. So, theoretically, the Camera2 API should still be enabled.
If I follow the given procedures l, then will I loose my data?
You will only lose data once when you unlock the bootloader. If you already have the phone’s bootloader unlocked, nothing will be erased.
Hey I enabled cam2api on my mia2 using your temporary root method….now Today I received a notification of may security update on my mia2.
So my question is … whether after updating to may security update the gcam will work or not???
Hi. After installing the OTA, you will need to repeat the procedure with the May Patched Boot Image.
Hi. After i’m unlocking the bootloader and installing Gcam, My phone become uncertified in a Playstore. I try relocked my bootloader to see if it can make my device certified back but unfortunately my Camera2 api become legacy after i’m relocked my bootloader. Do you know how to make my device certified and can use G cam at the same time ? Thanks in advance .
Hi Dhananjay,
Nice tutorial!!
I’ve a MI 6, and after android pie my camera 2 api level 3 was disable.
So I’m trying enable with the follows commands:
setprop persist.camera.HAL3.enabled 1
setprop persist.camera.eis.enable 1
setprop persist.camera.is_mode 4
setprop persist.camera.stats.test 5
setprop persist.vendor.camera.HAL3.enabled 1
setprop persist.vendor.camera.eis.enable 1
setprop persist.vendor.camera.is_mode 4
setprop persist.vendor.camera.stats.test 5
setprop persist.sys.qcom-brightness 4095
I’m using twrp to boot..
If u can give same tip 🙂
thanks
Hi Lucas, have you rooted your Mi 6 via Magisk as well? Or is it just TWRP that you have installed on the device?
Hi. Sorry for this noob question. Do my data will be wiped out if i’m using those steps to enable camera API ?
Hi Ammar. Your data will only be wiped when you unlock the bootloader. If you have already unlocked the bootloader, nothing on the device will be wiped.
Hello from Bangalore. thanks a ton for drafting such an easy way to enable camera 2 api and finding working google camera port.
I am on mi a2 V10.0.8.0.PDIMIXM .
followed your steps and I am able to use camera 2 api enabled google camera port.
Its doing little magic with night sight n portrait n hrd + surely though the resolution is compromised.
I was trying to lock the bootloader ( dont like the stupid warning boot message). I tried to skip ‘wiping phone data in fastboot while locking bootloader by pressing the volume down and then fastboot reboot.
It didn’t help..
Please let us know how to lock the bootloader with out wiping phone data and the working google cam port from phone .
Hi. The button trick is very messy and lately, users have reported that it doesn’t work. So, I don’t think there’s a way to re-lock the bootloader without wiping.
i have done all your step and install magisk in *temporary root boot*. But when i reboot after termux thing…I lost all of my data…i thought its only *temporary* how can i get back my stock data
That’s quite odd. There’s nothing with Termux or root that will format the data. The data is only erased once when you unlock the bootloader.
Hi, I have the same problem. The cellphone doensn’t load the patched imaged. It restarts to the normal image and it doesn’t allow super user. I have Magisk Manager up to date v7.1.2. When I open the app it says at first Magisk is not installed.
Hi. Once you have booted the phone with the patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager > Settings and set the update channel to Beta. Then close and re-open Magisk, you should then have root access in Termux.
Note that this is only for the V10.0.8.0 image. From v10.0.9.0, ensure that the update channel is selected as “Stable” in Magisk Manager settings.
Hi, thanks for this tutorial. I’m following all steps until Termux. Once i write su it takes a while to respond and when it does, it tells me “permission denied”.
I’m triyng to install the latest version (patched_boot_10.0.8.0_mi_a2_lite.img) and magisk is correctly present in app drawer. Thanks in advance
Hi. Once you have booted the phone with the patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager > Settings and set the update channel to Beta. Then close and re-open Magisk, you should then have root access in Termux.
Note that this is only for the V10.0.8.0 image. From v10.0.9.0, ensure that the update channel is selected as “Stable” in Magisk Manager settings.
Hello friend the tutorial worked flawlessly straight!
A big question: can I re-lock the bootloader without lose the GCam funcionality?
Specifically, some apps (aka Niantic’s games) are not working after detecting the unlocked bootloader =/
Hi. Thanks for the kind words.
I think you will not lose the functionality after re-locking the bootloader.
Hello,
Very good tutorial but will I still receive OTA updates after the process?
I unlocked the bootloader and after that tried to enable API with twrp 3.3.0-0 several times but nothing happened..
I tried this method too, but I didn’t enable API again. It says: Booting – FAILED (remote ‘dtb not found’). What am I doing wrong?
BTW I am using mi a2 lite.
Hi. Please make sure that you download and use the latest version of Android SDK platform-tools.
thanks for the tutorial, totallz worked for me, i just have one more question. can i relock the bootloader after i did all this process and installed the gcam? will it still work?
thanks again man
Hi. Yes, you can. But keeping the bootloader unlocked is more convenient. So if any further monthly software update overwrites the Camera2 API commands, you can easily re-apply the procedure.
Hi, I tried following the steps as mentioned until i get to termux. Once i write su it takes a while to respond and when it does, it tells me permission denied. What could be the problem and how can i solve it? I really need this camera2 api enabled. Thanks and good work on the article.
Forgot to mention, i am using the Mi A2 with the April Update V10.0.8.0.PDLMIXM
Hi. Can you please go to the app drawer and see if the Magisk Manager app is present there?
If not, then after booting your phone with the patched boot image (Step #8), download the latest Magisk Manager APK and install it on your phone.
Hey! Stuck in the same step as the guy above. But once I type su in the termux app, it says “No su program found on this device. Termux does not supply tools for rooting.” I even installed the latest Magisk Manager but didn’t help… (mi a2, April 2015 update)
Hi Binod. Once you have booted your phone with the patched boot image, please go to Magisk Manager > Settings and let me know what is selected as the “Update Channel”?
I’m having the same problem. Magisk Manager is present in the app drawer but I get permission denied when I execute “su” from Termux. Mi A2 with April patch.
Hi. Once you have booted the phone with the patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager > Settings and set the update channel to Beta. Then close and re-open Magisk, you should then have root access in Termux.
Note that this is only for the V10.0.8.0 image. From v10.0.9.0, ensure that the update channel is selected as “Stable” in Magisk Manager settings.
I have same problem, the magisk manager still on there. But when I type su on termux, grant superuser permission is not prompted, and then it tells me permission denied
Hi Beni. Please open Magisk Manager and confirm that it shows that Magisk is installed (V19.0).
same problem.
unsupported/unknown image format
installation failed
when installing Magisk, downloaded the latest .apk and version v19
Hi Ryan. Did you tap on the ‘Install’ button in Magisk Manager?
Hi Dhananjay,
I figured it out. I installed Magisk in advance before the starting these steps 😀 what worked for me is, after step 10 I installed Magisk before Termux. It’s all working now.
One thing I noticed, after reboot is Magisk did not uninstall automatically. Not a problem really as all of my Apps are working except Netflix. Is it because I’m still rooted? How can I un-root it?
Thanks, mate. This tutorial really helped me a lot.
Thanks for the confirmation and also for the kind words.
When you mentioned that you “installed Magisk”, did you mean that you installed the Magisk Manager app or used the “Install” button to install Magisk itself?
I mean the Magisk Manager app. I should install it first, then Magisk itself before installing Termux.
can’t seem to get Netflix and Fox+ app working. So, I re-lock my A2. Problem was it re-formatted again and Camera2API was disabled upon boot-up. I there’s a way to re-lock it without reformatting?
Hi. Thanks for clarifying. When you boot the patched boot image, Magisk is already installed, and your phone is rooted temporarily, until the next reboot.
So, if you go to Magisk Manager and use the ‘Install’ button, you would just be rooting your phone permanently.
Do one thing, download the stock boot image of the software version that you have installed on your phone, and flash it using fastboot.
The command you need to use is: fastboot flash boot stock-boot-filename.img
Once you have restored, check if you can use Netflix again.
Now, for your bootloader re-locking question. As far as I have seen, when you issue the command to re-lock the bootloader and select the confirmation message on the device, instantly press and hold the Volume Down button. This will force the phone to reboot back into the bootloader and prevent the data wipe.
Although I have seen this trick work initially, users recently reported that it is quite dodgy now. So, I couldn’t confirm anything.
I have version 10.0.9.0.PDIMIXM
Can you the patched boot image for this version
Hi. It’s up for download now.
please when will patched boot image for 10.0.8 mi a2 lite be available
Hi. It’s now available and patched using the recently released stable Magisk 19.1.
It seems mine gets stuck on booting every time I issue the command on my PC. I’m using the A2 Lite. Is there any chance it’s because of my build? Seems to have been updated to 0.8.0. Any chance we’re getting the respective updated patched build? Thanks in advance
Hi Ethan. It’s now available, please take a look at the Downloads section again.
Hi !
In case I dont like the pixel gcamera and I want the undo all the changes I made, how can I flash the stock ROM and lock the bootloader.
Maybe if you are kind enought, you can make a tutorial or a post here in comments, how can we revert all the changes we had made, like flashing the stock ROM and locking back the bootloader.
I would kindly appreciate.
Thanks !
Hi. When you use this method, you only temporarily root the device. Which means, after executing the command when you reboot your phone, root is automatically gone and your device is still running the stock boot image.
So, even after performing this procedure, your device is completely stock, but just with an unlocked bootloader. To lock it back, reboot your phone into the Fastboot Mode, connect it to the PC, and run the “fastboot oem lock” command in the PowerShell/CMD window on the PC.
That’s it. Your phone’s bootloader will then be locked again.
After restarting my phone I still have Magisk app on it.Does that means that my phone is still rooted or? And can I delete Magisk and Termux now and just leave it be or do I have to flash stock image on it.
Btw thanks for everything !!! 🙂
This is the only version that doesn’t crash for me MGC_6.1.021_MI8_V2e.apk
but I have some kind of scripts/commands on screen (just above the “take photo” button)
Yes, you can safely delete both of them. If you only booted the patched boot image and didn’t flash it, then your phone will be unrooted automatically upon reboot.
You’re welcome! And as for the GCam version, you can give a try to some different ones from here and see which works the best for you.
I asked it, because after I did what you said in your tutorial I lost my Google Play Certificate, and I wondered if I flash the stock imagine and lock the bootloader back maybe I can get my certification back.
Okay. In that case, simply flash the stock boot image via Fastboot and re-lock the bootloader, and verify if the device gets certified again.
After completion of all procedures will termux continue to have root priviledges after reboot?
Hi Abir. I have re-uploaded the new patched boot images for both the devices. Please download it again and try with that.
Hey bro, I followed every step as mentioned above. But didn’t make nay progress whatsoever. I don’t know what is wrong. When I enter the command fastboot boot patched boot.img , it boots into the os and then I wait for about 10 minutes, but I don’t see magisk module anywhere. Then I go in termux and wait for it to start, after about 5 seconds when I write su, it outright says denied. And that too persistently! I tried it for about half an hour. My Mi A2 has a jdi screen so I cannot install twrp recovery, neither does my phone lets me install PBRP. And trust me, I tried. For 48hours, 72 hours. I was hell bent on rooting but couldn’t get anywhere. Can you please help me here man? This is my last resort. And if you can help in any way in installing custom recovery and all on my device, then that would be deeply appreciated brother. And not forgetting the existing issue, termux says denied! Where to now after this?
Hi Shashank. Please retry with the new patched boot images that I have uploaded and let me know what progress you have.
I am facing same problem, termux command sure getting denied. I used the patched boot uploaded here. What should I do now?
Hi. Once you have booted the phone with the patched boot image, go to Magisk Manager > Settings and set the update channel to Beta. Then close and re-open Magisk, you should then have root access in Termux.
Note that this is only for the V10.0.8.0 image or below. From v10.0.9.0, ensure that the update channel is selected as “Stable” in Magisk Manager settings.
Hi Dhananjay, I will be trying this method. I have knowledge about bootloaders in pc, but not in a phone. This is the first time I am going to try such a process. I am going to do the following after temporary root:
Install termux and do the usual, install link2sd and es file explorer and grant them su before rebooting (unrooting).
My questions are:
1. Is it safe to relock the bootloader after the procedure? Is “fastboot oem lock” the correct command for that?
(I read a post where a guy bricked his phone by relocking the bootloader and disabling “oem unlocking” options in developer options. The same settings are there in MI A2 jasmine sprout)
2. And, since I am not flashing anything permanently (except installing 3 system apps), nor changing the stock bootloader or leaving my bootloader unlocked, will my warranty be still present?
Hi Abir.
Don’t do that! The apps you mentioned require root permission every time they launch and mount the /system partition. So, when the person (That you are telling me about) did this and rebooted his phone, the security feature (dm-verity) detected the modified partition and thus the phone was bricked. It’s easy to get away with this and restore the stock system.img to revive the device back.
However, with a locked bootloader, there’s no way to recover it. Make sure that you keep the ‘OEM Unlocking’ toggle enabled at all times if you’re even going to try this for your satisfaction.
The warranty stays intact only if the system has not been modified at all (Not even a single app) and the bootloader is locked.
Hope this answers your queries. If you have any questions, feel free to ask them to me by commenting here.
Hi, I couldn’t wait so I have already gone ahead and done that. As I understand, build.prop is also a part of system partition (I may be wrong here). So since I am modifying that for gcam, I have left my bootloader unloacked and oem unlocking is anyway showing allowed and grayed since the bootloader is already unlocked. The results are:
a. As a daily driver, no issues at all.
b. On rebooting, the “unlocked bootloader” warning message flashes for 5 seconds annoyingly.
c. System is not upgrading to May security patch, it downloads the 100mb file and then shows error
My quesiton is:
If I am flashing the corresponding stock rom, will it erase the user apps? (Do I have to again start from scratch? :'( )
Oh and PS: The apps who I gave root access, no longer have root access on rebooting, nor are they system apps (not installed in system partition). That’s it, they function as normal user apps.
Hi. That’s correct, editing build prop is basically modifying the system partition. Did you edit the file manually or did you use the commands above?
This method basically roots your device temporarily by booting the patched boot image and the root is completely removed when you reboot the phone, hence none of the root apps will operate.
Do you want to root your phone or just want to enable the API?
Hi, I followed your instructions, but I also modified the file using ES file explorer to whitelist gcam in the vendor.camera.aux.packagelist, so that in future if gcam supportes dual rear cameras, I don’t need to go through this process again.
I also hoped to use fake gps go app as a system app (running from system partition without root) for pokemon go (using temporarily elevated link2sd app), but this failed for me. The app was not at all present on reboot.
Somehow things must have gone wrong somewhere due to which I am unable to update to May security and I am looking forward to flash everything to stock following this:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/ota-v9-6-5-0-odimife-t3823445 for V10.0.8.0.PDIMIXM. I am hesitating a bit because the boot.img (bootloader) filesize does not match the one you provided.
As an alternate this is my question:
What if I try to change the active partition from a to b or b to a, whatever was the one before the V10.0.8.0.PDIMIXM OTA and then try to go for OTA, which should overwrite the partition which I so recklessly modified?
(user data has a single partition and most probably it won’t get erased just like in OTA updates)
Oh I forgot. No I don’t want to root my phone since Pokemon Go won’t run then 😛 And also there is a risk of getting banned from Uber, Ola, etc. This is my lifeline device, not for experimenting 😛 😀 (I don’t want to go through the hassle of hiding root and its uncertainties)
I just like to extract the most from what I have without harming the device (I won’t do stuff like overclocking) and so wanted to use GCam. The pictures from GCam are much nearer to real than stock cam, although the front camera pics are “too good to be true” 😛 after hdr processing. Your tutorial was highly helpful.
Plz ignore my question. I went for the partition change. The device got stuck at bootloop. After waiting 10 mins, I gave up, opened fastboot, changed the active partition again to the working one and booted normally. (At one point fastboot wasn’t coming up, which gave me a mini a heart attack. I won’t be doing any experiment now, **** may update, and I won’t disturb you again 😛 😀 )
Great tuto, thanks from Colombia!!
There’s only one thing that disturbs me. The only camera lens that is allowed for the rear camera of the A2 is the 12MP? I can’t see a configuration that allows me to use the 20MP rear camera of my A2.
Thank you
Hi Jhonattan, thank you so much for the kind words.
Each GCam build has its own limitations, the only way to get past is to use a different port. I do keep a tab on recent supported GCam versions, but I am afraid I can’t try them all. In case you find a better GCam port from here, do let us know since it will help other readers as well.
Well,I did everything as written and after flashing patched_boot_10.0.7.0_mi_a2_lite.img my phone was stuck at booting…Never booted up so I had to turn him off.
I’v tried to repeat this whole process twice with same results (stuck at boot) so I decided to quit.
🙁
Hi. By any chance, are you using the V10.0.7.0 patched boot on your Mi A2 Lite running V10.0.8.0? In that case, your phone will bootloop. I have recently added the Patched Boot for V10.0.8.0, please download and use that.
Yup,realized later that was the exact problem.I’m going to try again with newest version.
I HAVE ROOTED MY PHONE AS YOU MENTIONED BEFORE PROCEEDING THIS PROCESS. AS I RUN CMD COMMAND FASTBOOT BOOT PATCHED_BOOT_V10.0.8.0_MI_A2.IMG AFTER CONNECTING MY PHONE IN FASTBOOT, THE FOLLOWING ERROR IS SHOWING
FASTBOOT.EXE- SYSTEMERROR
THE PROGRAM CAN NOT START BECAUSE API-MS-WIN-CRT-LOCALE-II-I-0 IS MISSING FROM YOUR COMPUTER. TRY REINSTALLING THE PROGRAM TO FIX THIS PROBLEM
Hi Deepak. That’s quite an unusual errror. When I tried searching for it, It seems like a virus on the PC.
I also did some research about that and found that DLL registry is missing on my pc. Will install that registry and repeat the process and let you know what will happen.
now i have overcome the above mentioned issue and successfully boot the patched boot file. and install termux in my but here come the another issue when i command su it say permission denied. what should i do….?
do i need to install twrp recovery prior to this procedure?
Hi Deepak. No, there’s not need for TWRP. Once you have booted with the patched boot image, go to the app drawer and check if Magisk Manager is visible to you. Note that after rebooting, Magisk Manager could take about a minute to appear in the app drawer, in some cases.
One more thing, you used the patched V10.0.8.0 boot image for Mi A2 and NOT Mi A2 Lite, right?
This Patched Boot V10.0.8.0.PDLMIXM for Mi A2 works in my version V10.0.8.0.PDiMIXM?
Hi Jonas. It was typo on my part. I have corrected the name now. It was actually PDIMIXM and not PDLMIXM. You can use it.
After enabling camera 2 api, I decided to delete Magisk Magisk and now my cell phone turns on the message “no command” I decided to load again the boot image that you left in the description and in effect starts the device but when restarting it appears again “no command” message, now how can I solve it?
*sorry my english is not well :c
Hi. Magisk will automatically be removed completely when you reboot your phone. There was no need to uninstall it from the app, in case you did that.
Tell me which device are you using, the Mi A2 or the Mi A2 Lite? Also, which software build is installed on it (Like V10.0.7.0, V10.0.8.0, V10.0.6.0, etc)?
i can not start with the patched boot image, I don’t know what i have do to fix it
C:\platform-tools>fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.8.0_mi_a2.img
Sending ‘boot.img’ (29901 KB) OKAY [ 0.643s]
Booting FAILED (remote: ‘Flashing is not allowed in Lock State’)
fastboot: error: Command failed
Hi Gustavo. You must first unlock the phone’s bootloader in order to use this method. It was an error on my part to not mention it.
hello sir, can i seek for help. why does my power shell says fastboot not recognized? big thanks
Hi goody. You must first download and install Android platform-tools on the PC. The platform-tools include fastboot, adb, etc. You can follow our tutorial here.
Hi! Thanks for the guide. If I re-lock the bootloader, will it reformat the device and reset the Camera2 API? If it does, is there a way to prevent the reformat from happening? Thanks.
Hi Ken. Although there’s a button trick to prevent the format when unlocking or re-locking the bootloader, recently users have reported that it doesn’t work anymore.\
Also know that if you re-lock the bootloader, the camera2 API will be reverted to legacy again.
Hello, today I have already updated my MI A2 to April Security Patch ,
so will the patched Boot Image of V10.0.7.0.PDLMIXM, work with my Build No. Version V10.0.8.0 PDIMIXM,
for enabling Camera 2 API.
Please Response.
Thanks.
Hi Prasenjit. Nope, always make sure to use the patched boot of the version installed on your phone. I have just updated the post with V10.0.8.0 patched boot image, kindly use that.
Hi Dhananjay, I have a Mi A2 Lite. I installed the sdk platform, made the connection with the pc, typted adb devices and it said that one device was connected. Then I went to the instructions:
5. Power off your Xiaomi Mi A2/A2 Lite completely : done
6. Now hold the Volume Down and Power buttons together to enter Fastboot Mode
Boot into Fastboot Mode : done ( I’m seeing the logo as in the picture in the instructions)
7. Connect your phone to the PC using the USB cable: I’m plugging in back the cable, but it doesn’t make a connection. When I type adb devices, I’m not getting a device attached.
any ideas? I’m working on a windows 10 PC
kind regards, Tom
I got a little further, I did a adb reboot bootloader and then it connected. I then did the fastboot boot patched……img and it said:
PS C:\adb> fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.7.0_mi_a2_lite.img
downloading ‘boot.img’…
OKAY [ 0.736s]
booting…
OKAY [ 0.605s]
finished. total time: 1.346s
after that it restarted , but i lost everything, he installed completly from zero ( don’t know if this is normal or not?) I installed termux , and when i enter su it says: no such program found on this device. Termix does not supply tools for rooting….. what next? 🙂 kind regards, Tom
Hi Tom. Reboot your phone once. Then reboot it back into Fastboot and follow the procedure from start. Right after you enter the ‘fastboot boot’ command, your phone will boot temporarily with root. Go to the app drawer and check if Magisk Manager is present there or not (It might take a minute or two for it to appear in the app drawer).
Hi,
I rebooted my phone, rebooted back in fastboot and followed the procedure from start.
PS C:\adb> fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.7.0_mi_a2_lite.img
downloading ‘boot.img’…
OKAY [ 0.771s]
booting…
OKAY [ 0.609s]
finished. total time: 1.385s
PS C:\adb>
my phone rebooted and when I check it doesn’t have magisk manager . Not even after 10min-20min.
I don’t know what I’m doing wrong 🙁
Hello, I wonder if by using this method will it void my device’s warranty? I thank you in advance!
Hi Luis. When you unlock the bootloader and root your phone, your phone’s warranty is gone. But the best part about using an Android One device like Mi A2/A2 Lite is that you can always restore stock and re-lock the bootloader, in case of any warranty issues.
Hi
A big thanks to mr. Dhananjay
Yesterday i did it with this process, google camera working fine
I also find some other gcam port which is specific for MI A2
Slow motion feature also working in it
https://f.celsoazevedo.com/file/gcamera/MGC_ver.6.1.021_Dise_v5.1.apk
And today i got April security patch update 10.0.8.0,
All commands, links working fine
I did it without root, and with the help of your step by step guidelines
Thanks
Thanks
Thanks
Thanks
Hi again Ankit! Thanks for the kind words. I have updated the post with the version you shared, thanks for doing that, it will be helpful for several other readers.
Hi Ankit,
Can you please let me know if you used the 10.0.7.0 patched boot IMG for your april update.
Am a bit worried if it will cause any issues. Or is there a patched boot IMG for April update?
Thanks in advance
Hi Jeevan. Patched boot for the April update (V10.0.8.0) is now available for download, for the Mi A2 (jasmine_sprout).
what is the role of stock boot image file here?
since we are using only patched boot img file..
does it need to flash into stock boot img after all process?
Hi Ankit. I just provided them if the user accidentally flashes the patched boot image instead of booting it. Users often look for stock boot image in case of fully unrooting to take OTA updates etc.
There’s no one particular reason for me to share them, just thought it would be useful.
Oh, and no. You do not need to flash the stock boot image at all after following the instructions above.
Hi. I followed the process but i dont think the commands you’ve given for termex worked. I have superuser access and entered all 5, but it still shows legacy camera.
Hi Unmekh. I am pretty sure that the commands work, please give it a try again. Once you have successfully executed them, reboot your phone and then try installing a GCam port.
Same with me. Do you have any workarounds here? After typing the command and press enter what do we expect to see? Are there new codes that will show? Or we’ll just continue to tye the next command.
Cause what I did is type a command then press enter. Type another and press enter. Once I am done typing all five commands I exited the app. Is there something I missed here? Thanks in advance
I solved the aforementioned problem by unlocking bootloader but when I start termux it doesn’t allow me to access super user
Hi. Are you certain that you launch Termux and enter the ‘su’ command when the phone is booted with the patched boot image?
The fastboot command is for temporarily booting the phone with root. After that, when you do a reboot, root will be gone.
hello, I followed your guide but when I type the command fastboot the process stops with this message: “FAILED (remote: unlock device to use this command). How can I solve? thanks
Most probably the bootloader is locked? Check the topic on Xiaomi, “Mi Devices Bootloader Unlocking Tutorial & Unlocking Tool”.
Correct. However, you wouldn’t need the Xiaomi Unlock Tool to do it. Since it’s an Android One device, unlocking the bootloader could easily be done using the ‘fastboot oem unlock’ command and is reversible as well.
Thanks, v1adimir for taking out the time and helping out other readers here.
Hyyy My Bro,,
I Was Succesfully Installed MGC_6.1.021_BSG_Arnova-based_v.1.3c_fix_TlnNeun.apk and Work On My MI A2..
But I Want Ask About 20 MP Rear Camera..
Why In My Device Only Work 12 MP??
In EXIF Data Only Show 4000 X 3000 Resolution..
Hi. That’s because of the Google Cam port you are using. Please give a try to one of the other GCams linked above.
I did the procedure to start with a patched boot image, and the phone does not start with the temporary root, I tried to install the magisk but it did not work, thanks again
Hi ,
Should i unlock the bootloader before following the above steps
Hi Anubhav. Yes, you will need to unlock the bootloader first. You can do that without losing data, but you’ll need to follow a specific set of instructions for that.
If data isn’t a concern, then you can unlock the bootloader and simply follow the process.
Can I lock the bootloader after that and keep camera2api enabled or it will be disabled?
It should still be enabled, however, I wouldn’t recommend re-locking until everything is completely stock.
I tried the above steps after unlocking my bootloader , but wheneven i try to send this command “fastboot boot patched_boot_10.0.7.0_mi_a2.img” the console just says: sending “boot.img” it doesn’t do anything
Hi Anubhav. As soon as you enter the command, does the phone boots into the OS with the patched boot image?
In case it doesn’t and the command prompt doesn’t move ahead, then I believe it’s a connection issue between the device and the PC. It could be the USB drivers, the cable, or the USB port on your PC itself.
Hi
Am I going to lose my data if I try to root my Mi A2 and install Gcam according to your instructions ?
Hi. You won’t lose your data if you use this method to root the phone and enable Camera2 API. However, you might lose it when unlocking the bootloader (Which is a requirement for this process).
You can unlock the bootloader without losing data if you want to know how then let me know.
Hello again,
What you mean that I can lose data during bootload ?
Could you give me instructions ?
I just want to enable Camera2 API and to install Gcam later, without loosing any data or OTA updates fro my device.
Thanks in advance!
Also another question,
Am I going to receive OTA updates after your procedure ?
Thanks
Hi. You will still be able to take OTA updates, so don’t worry about that. As for unlocking the bootloader without wiping data, please refer to the steps in this XDA thread.
Make sure that you read the thread first and follow it exactly as it tells you to or you will end up losing the data while unlocking the bootloader.
The guide didn’t work. Earlier there was no confirmation message asking to confirm the bootloader unlock on the handset. Since there is a confirmation message displayed on the phone now, pressing the volume down key while this unlocking process doesn’t help since we need the volume button to select the menu in device to confirm bootloader unlock. So I ended up wiping complete data on this process. Fortunately I took a complete backup. Prepare for the worse scenarios during these processes so u don’t end up worrying if something goes wrong.
Hi Jeevan. I am glad you took a backup beforehand.
In the more recent Pie builds, Xiaomi seems to have updated the bootloader for all its Android One devices.
The trick to prevent wiping is to avoid your phone from booting into the OS. So, when you press the Power button to select the confirmation message, simply keep pressing the Volume button simultaneously. That you reboot the phone back into the Fastboot Mode.
Good night, my version and V10.0.7.0.PDIMIXM, I can not get past the powershell command, would it be because of the different version? I tried it with Patched Boot Image V10.0.7.0.PDLMIXM
thanks for the tutorial
Yes. You need to make sure that you use the patched boot image of the version installed on your device.
Hi, thank you for this guide, it’s the best one I’ve found so long!
But I have a problem, when I go to the step 9 (typing “fastboot boot patched_boot_V10.0.7.0_mi_a2_lite.img”)
The computer says:
Downloading ‘boot.img’ OKAY [ 1.018s]
booting FAILED (remote: ‘unlock device to use this command’)
What can I do?
Hi. That means you have not yet unlocked the phone’s bootloader. In order to perform this method, you must unlock the bootloader first.
Hi, can you help me? I followed all the steps of your tutorial and everything went perfectly fine except for one thing. After I’ve enabled the camera2 api on my mi a2 the frontal camera only works with 5 megapixels instead of 20. When I disable the camera2 api it backs to 20mp, but with camera2 api it’s maximum resolution is 5mp. Can you help me?
Hi Gabriel. Please try a different version of GCam as linked above.
Hi Dhananjay, the Gcam works like a charm. Thank you so much. I’ve got a few doubts. Can I uninstall the Magisk Manager now? Will I get the updates as usual even after I have unlocked the bootloader?
Yes, you can safely remove it after you have performed the procedure.
After typing the command in Termux and press enter what do we expect to see? Are there new codes that will show? Or we’ll just continue to tye the next command.
Cause what I did is type a command then press enter. Type another and press enter. Once I am done typing all five commands I exited the app. Is there something I missed here? Thanks in advance
Hi. If the command(s) executed properly, you wouldn’t see anything, just the next line to enter another command. This means that it worked.
Hi Dhananjay,
I have unlocked the bootloader. however superuser permission not pop up on my mobile.
su not found message displayed on screen
Hi Sagar. Which software version are you running? Also, you have to execute SU command when you have successfully booted the phone with the patched boot image.
can you post the patched boot image 10.0.7.0 jasmin for mi a2
Hi Sugam. The patched boot image for V10.0.7.0 (March update) is now available.
Thanks
Hi, I tried the method yesterday, but in camera2 probe apk shows green mark in legacy not in level 3 or any other. and one thing, you provided 4 different commands here, are they all for mi a2 lite? if not, then which are?
and how can I be sure that the commands are executed properly. I am not getting it. I will wair for your ans. And thanks for this post.
Hi. The commands are the same for both Mi A2/A2 Lite. Please make sure that you use the patched boot corresponding to the software version installed on your phone. Once you have booted the patched boot image, open Termux and follow the steps. Also, make sure that you execute the ‘su’ command first to grant root permissions to Termux.
Once you have granted the root permissions, you can execute the four commands to enable Camera2 API on your A2 Lite.
In Termux app, I have entered su command but it reply that permission denied.
What to do next ???
Hi. That means that the patched boot image has not booted up properly. Here are two things that I want you to try, in the given order:
1) Once you have booted your phone with the patched boot image, download Magisk Manager APK, install it, and run it. See if it shows wheather Magisk is installed or not?
2) If the above doesn’t work, make sure that you have proper USB drivers installed. At several occasions, it has led to be an error on the USB drivers part.
Let me know how it goes. Oh, and don’t forget that you use the patched boot image for your own device – Mi A2 or the Mi A2 Lite.
I tried to lock the bootloader again, but it always resets from the factory. I keep pressing volume down, after I keep pressing a message appears can’t load android system your data may be corrupt, there I have to restore the phone. Mine is my normal a2
Hi. Sorry for the late response. Were you able to recover your device or do you still need help with it?
The MGC_6.1.021_BSG_Arnova-based_v.1.3c_fix_TlnNeun.apk can’t be open, it always force closed, but
MGC_6.1.021_MI8_V2e.apk can be open but it can’t take picture from front camera.
A2 Lite
Hi Cebe. Please visit this page and try the suggested versions (In Red color). Finding the perfect Gcam port could be hard at first.
Seems like booting with the image you provided doesn’t change anything. I got permission denied for su. I have a V10.0.4.0.PDLMIXM build, and used the according image. Realy can’t solve that issue.
Hi,
Thanks for this job !
Can i leave Always the patched boot img (without patch original img) for my A2 lite rest in Root state ?
Thanks in advance and sorry for my bad english language.
Nicolas.
Hi Nicholas! I am sorry, but I am not fully able to understand your question. Once the API is enabled, you can freely delete the patched boot image.
Hi Dhananjay,
I had already commented on the post, but it is not here now. Anyways how do I delete the patched boot image? Thanks for your help.
Hi. When you reboot your device after performing the commands in Termux, root is automatically removed.
I installed the MGC_6.1.021_MI8_V2e.apk port, but the front camera does not store the photos.
Hi Leyaliton! Did you try the other one linked above?
When i pressed enter on the step 9 i got an error: (too many links)
in device screen appears the follow message: press any key to shutdown
HELP!
Mi A2 Lite v10.0.3.0 works in my Mi A2? (v10.0.3.0.PDIMIX)
Hi Franklin. The Mi A2 Lite images will not work on the regular A2. Do you have V10.0.3.0 installed on your regular Mi A2?
after i successfully completed the process in termux i take a reboot and installed the ported gcam . after the installation it force closes after i grant the permission it wants.
-update
i installed another ported gcam heres the link : https://f.celsoazevedo.com/file/gcamera/MGC_6.1.021_MI8_V2e.apk
and it works well. but the slow mo makes camera forced stopped.
Hi again Rae! Thanks for sharing his. I have updated the post with the link you provided, along with the previous one.
GCam ports are not all same. Some might have bugs in certain features. So, you need to keep testing which one works the best for your setup.
ok. i’ll update again if some other ported gcam works. ill send it right away here. 😊
Please share a thread on how to lock bootloader again,cz I’m unable to do software update
Hi Ankit. You don’t need a locked bootloader to update. You can simply uninstall Magisk from within Magisk Manager and then flash the stock boot image corresponding to your software version. Once you have done this, you will be able to install the OTA update normally.
i redownloaded patched image for 10.0.4,
booted.
redownloaded termux.
still su denied.
please email me if you have the patched 10.0.4 again! thanks for the works btw! 😀
Hi Rae. When you boot with the patched boot image, do you see the Magisk Manager app installed and visible in the app drawer?
And thanks for the appreciation. Keeps me going.
i do checked for the magisk app and i wondered why there’s no magisk installed.
i’ll be checking your response tomorrow. Thanks again. 😀
Hi again Rae. Boot with the correct patched boot image according to the firmware version installed (V10.0.3.0 patched boot if V10.0.3.0 is installed, and so on).
Once booted, download and install Magisk Manager 7.0.0 on the phone. Then launch it and see if it shows that Magisk is installed.
Remember, do this all when booted with the patched boot image.
ok ill test it later in v10.0.4.0
Sorry sir, are this tutorial work on locked bootloader or not?
Hi Aditya. No, it would not work on a device with a locked bootloader.
boot yang di tambal versi v1.0.0.8.0 mi a2sudah tersedia pak?
Hi. Patched boot and stock boot for v10.0.8.0 are now available for download.
redownloaded the patched image for 2 lite still denied.
Can’t download the g cam. Can you provide another link
Hi Sugam. The download link is working just fine. I have personally tried it both via my PC and my Pixel.
Need video for this method.
Hi. I am sorry, but we do not do videos for now. You will have to go with the instructions until we create a YouTube channel.
when typing SU command termux displays “permission denied”
Hi. Are you sure that you’re typing the command when booted into the OS with Patched Boot Image?
Went through everything booted with patched boot image…I have the same issue, denied su!
Hi Joseph. I have patched the latest boot images for both Mi A2/A2 Lite with Magisk 18.1. Please re-download the patched boot image and try again.
it is because you need to install magisc manager apk frist
(sorry for bad english)
The steps are clear but you should mention (somewhere at the beginning of the article), that if you follow the procedure you will end up WIPING EVERYTHING. Not cool.
Hi Nick. Thanks for the suggestion. Did you have an unlocked bootloader before starting off with the instructions? Or did you unlock it just before performing this?
Why I am asking this, is because the method should not wipe anything.
Flashing is not allowed in Lock State
I’m new to this so I do not know what to do. Can anybody help me?
Hi. It is required that you unlock the phone’s bootloader first. If you need a guide, you can find it here.
yeah thats right and after that my a2’s warranty will be void. am i right?
Yes. But the beauty of using Google/Android One devices is that you can easily re-lock the bootloader back.
1.For my mi A2 Lite (android Pie),which one install V10.0.3.0.PDLMIXM or V10.0.2.0.PDLMIFJ?
2.Do you need to unlock the oem bootloader in developer mode?
Thanks in advance
Hi Alehandro.
1) You need to use the patched boot image for the firmware version installed on your Mi A2 Lite. So, if you have V10.0.3.0, you will need to use the patched V10.0.3.0 boot image.
2) Yes, you need to enable OEM unlock in Developer Options and also unlock the bootloader after that. You can find the guide for unlocking the bootloader on Mi A2 Lite here.
Hello
thank you for the tutorial but I have the message “permission denied” when I enter the command “su” in Termux.
What should I do?
Hi Jerome. Please re-download the patched boot image and try again. I have patched the boot images with Magisk v18.1 just now. Please try with the newly uploaded patched boot and let me know if it works.
I just tested with the V10.0.4.0.PDLMIXM patched Boot Image for Mi A2 Lite (daisy) and I have the same “permission denied” message when I enter the command “su” in Termux.
Hi Ed. Once you have booted with the Patched Boot Image, do you see Magisk Manager in the app drawer? If you don’t, then please download it from here, install it on your phone and launch it. See if it shows that Magisk is installed or not?