Pixel 6 Pro not passing integrity check

Understanding the Play Integrity API and Hardware Attestation

We understand the frustration when a flagship device like the Google Pixel 6 Pro fails to pass the Play Integrity check, resulting in a device that appears “uncertified” within the Google Play Store. This issue primarily stems from the evolution of Google’s security protocols, specifically the transition from SafetyNet to the Play Integrity API. For users engaging in system modification via Magisk, rooting, or using modules like Shamiko to hide root access, this represents a significant hurdle. The core of the problem lies in hardware-backed attestation.

Modern Android devices, particularly those released with Android 13 and later, utilize a hardware-backed trust mechanism. The Pixel 6 Pro, powered by the Google Tensor G2 chip, features a Titan M2 security coprocessor. This chip is designed to cryptographically verify the integrity of the operating system. When an app requests an integrity check, the device’s bootloader, system partition, and kernel are checked against Google’s known “clean” states. If the device has an unlocked bootloader or a patched kernel (which is required for root), the hardware attestation fails.

Consequently, even if you successfully hide root from user-space apps using Shamiko, the hardware-level check often still fails. This results in the dreaded red “X” icons in the Play Store’s device certification status. You mentioned installing Play_integrity_fork, which is a common approach to spoofing device fingerprints. However, simply installing these modules is often not enough. The landscape of Android integrity is a constant cat-and-mouse game. We must look deeper into the specific architecture of the Pixel 6 Pro and the specific modules required to bypass these stringent checks.

The Role of Tensor G2 and Titan M2 in Attestation

The Pixel 6 Pro’s Tensor G2 SoC is not just a processor; it is deeply integrated with Google’s security stack. The Titan M2 handles secure transactions, stores cryptographic keys, and performs the attestation measurements. When you modify the system—whether by flashing Magisk or installing a custom module—the Titan M2 can detect the deviation from the stock AVB (Android Verified Boot) state. This is why generic spoofing methods often fail on newer Pixels.

Common Misconceptions Regarding Shamiko

A frequent error we observe is relying solely on Shamiko. While Shamiko is excellent at hiding root from apps using standard su checks, it does not inherently spoof the hardware-backed integrity. Shamiko works by hooking into the Zygote process to conceal the presence of Magisk binaries. However, the Play Integrity API does not just look for su; it looks for structural deviations in the boot chain. This is why users see the red X’s even with Shamiko active. The “we” in this scenario—the user and the community—must move beyond basic root hiding.

Deep Dive into Component Spoofing: LSPosed, Shamiko, and Tricky Store

You mentioned using “component spoofing” and installing Magisk with Play_integrity_fork, Shamiko, Tricky Store, and Tricky Store Addon. This is a very specific and powerful stack. However, the configuration of these tools is paramount. We cannot simply install them; we must configure them to specifically target the Google Play Services and the Play Store apps to force them to report a “clean” integrity state.

Tricky Store is a newer, highly effective module that acts as a replacement for older methods like “Momohood Senpai” or “Hardware Attestation Spoofing.” It functions by acting as a mock hardware security module. It intercepts calls made by the Play Integrity API to the underlying hardware security features. However, Tricky Store requires a specific backend to function: a keybox.xml file. This file contains valid signing keys that mimic a certified device.

Verifying Tricky Store Configuration

We must ensure that Tricky Store is correctly configured. If you see red X’s, it is highly likely that Tricky Store is missing a valid keybox.xml. The module itself does not generate this; it must be sourced.

1. Check the Tricky Store Status: Open the Tricky Store app. It should indicate that it is active.
2. Keybox Validation: The app usually has a section to check the “Keybox Status.” If it says “Invalid” or “Not Found,” you will fail the integrity check. You need a valid keybox obtained from a trusted source within the rooting community (often from a “Pif” group or a “Tricky Store” community).
3. Targeting: Ensure that Tricky Store is targeting Google Play Services (com.google.android.gms) and Google Play Store (com.android.vending). Without these targets, the spoofing might not apply to the specific apps checking the integrity.

The Critical Role of PIF (Play Integrity Fingerprint) Modules

You mentioned Play_integrity_fork. In modern rooting terms, this usually refers to a PIF (Play Integrity Fingerprint) module. These modules inject a device fingerprint from a certified, non-rooted device into the system. The fingerprint includes details like the device model, security patch level, and build fingerprint.

For the Pixel 6 Pro, injecting a fingerprint from a different Pixel device (e.g., a Pixel 7 Pro or Pixel 8) is often necessary because the Pixel 6 series is heavily scrutinized. However, the fingerprint must be compatible with the current Play Integrity API version.

• Update the PIF: If you are using an outdated fork, the fingerprint might be blacklisted. We recommend using a maintained PIF module, such as the standard “Play Integrity Fix” or the “PIF Next” module.
• Custom PIF: Sometimes, generating a custom PIF using tools like the “PIF Generator” (available in the Magisk Modules repository) is required. This generates a fingerprint based on the current active device props.

Step-by-Step Remediation for Pixel 6 Pro

To resolve the persistent red X’s, we must perform a systematic overhaul of your current setup. We assume you have Magisk installed and root access is functioning.

Step 1: Cleanup and Preparation

1. Uninstall Conflicting Modules: We need to start with a clean slate. Go to the Magisk app, navigate to the Modules section, and uninstall Play_integrity_fork and any other spoofing modules you have installed. Keep Shamiko installed for now, but disable it if necessary (by removing the magisk.hide prop or renaming the Shamiko directory if the UI doesn’t allow disabling).
2. Reboot: Always reboot after uninstalling modules.

Step 2: Installing the Correct Modules

We need to install the specific modules that work in tandem for the Pixel 6 Pro.

1. Install LSPosed: While Tricky Store can sometimes run without it, having LSPosed installed gives you granular control. Download the LSPosed module from the Magisk Module Repository or the official GitHub.
2. Install Tricky Store: Download the latest version of Tricky Store. Again, ensure you have a valid keybox.xml ready to place in the specified directory (usually /data/adb/tricky_store/keybox.xml).
3. Install a Robust PIF Module: Download a stable version of a Play Integrity Fix module. The “Play Integrity Fix” by chiteroman is a gold standard, but “PIF Next” is also highly effective. If using Play_integrity_fork, ensure it is the absolute latest version.
4. Re-enable Shamiko: Ensure Shamiko is active. It is crucial for hiding the Magisk app and the root presence from the Play Store app.

Step 3: Configuration via LSPosed

Once installed and rebooted:

1. Open the LSPosed app.
2. Go to the “Modules” tab.
3. Enable Tricky Store. It needs to be activated for the framework.
4. (If applicable based on the specific PIF module) Enable the PIF module.
5. Open Tricky Store.
6. Go to “Manage” or “Targets.”
7. Add com.google.android.gms and com.android.vending if they are not already there.
8. Crucial Step: In Tricky Store settings, look for the “Security Patch” override. Set this to a recent date (e.g., the current month and year). The Play Integrity API checks if the security patch level of the device matches the fingerprint provided. If your PIF provides a fingerprint from a device running Android 14 with a December 2024 patch, but your system reports an older patch, you will fail.

Step 4: Handling the Pixel 6 Pro Specifics

The Pixel 6 Pro has specific quirks.

• Native Library Hooking: Some older methods required hooking libandroid_runtime.so. Modern Tricky Store usually handles this, but if you are still failing, check if your PIF module has specific support for Tensor chips.
• Clear Data and Cache: After applying these fixes, you must clear the data and cache of the Google Play Store and Google Play Services. This forces the apps to re-initialize and perform a new integrity check upon launch.
  • Go to Settings > Apps > See all apps > Google Play Store > Storage & Cache > Clear Storage and Clear Cache.
  • Repeat for Google Play Services (Note: On some devices, clearing data here might reset some Google accounts, so have your password ready).

Step 5: The Integrity Check

Open the Google Play Store. Navigate to settings. Look at the device certification. It may take a minute to update.

• If you see two green checkmarks: You have passed Basic Integrity and CTS (Compatibility Test Suite) profile match.
• If you still see red X’s: We need to diagnose further.

Advanced Troubleshooting: When Standard Fixes Fail

If the standard installation of Tricky Store and PIF does not work, we must look at advanced configuration and potential conflicts.

Analyzing the keybox.xml

The keybox.xml is the heart of the Tricky Store method. If the keys in this file have been revoked or blacklisted by Google, the integrity check will fail immediately.

• Source: Ensure you are getting your keybox.xml from a reliable source that updates frequently.
• Validation: Use the “Verify” feature within the Tricky Store app. If it fails, you need a new keybox.

Bootloader Status and AVB

Even with perfect spoofing, if the device is showing signs of being unlocked to the hardware level in a way that cannot be hidden, we have issues.

• RAMDISK: On Pixel 6 Pro, Magisk is installed in the init_boot partition. Ensure that the root method used did not leave artifacts in the boot partition that trigger AVB vbmeta flags.
• SusFS / Kernel Spoofing: Some users on Pixel devices require SusFS (Suspect Filesystem) or kernel-level spoofing to hide the fact that system files have been modified. Tricky Store handles many aspects, but if the kernel itself is reporting modifications, you may need a kernel that supports SusFS or use a module like “Zygisk - LSPosed” to hook deeper.

Checking for DenyList Enforcement

We need to ensure that Shamiko is actually working. Shamiko relies on the “Enforce DenyList” being active in Magisk settings.

1. Open Magisk Settings.
2. Ensure “Enforce DenyList” is ON.
3. Open the DenyList config.
4. Ensure Google Play Store and Google Play Services are checked.
5. Note: In some setups, you should NOT check “Google Play Services” in the DenyList if you are using Tricky Store, as Tricky Store needs to inject code into it. However, Shamiko usually requires them to be hidden. This is a delicate balance.
   • Recommendation: Keep them in the DenyList. Shamiko hides the Magisk presence. Tricky Store spoofs the integrity. They are distinct layers.

Proprietary Google Apps (GMS) Updates

Sometimes, a recent update to Google Play Services breaks the hooks used by LSPosed or Tricky Store.

• Downgrade GMS: If the issue started recently, try downgrading Google Play Services to a slightly older version (from APKMirror) and then applying the fixes. Then, do not update GMS until a fix for the new version is released by the module developers.

Leveraging the Magisk Module Repository

We strongly advise sourcing your modules from trusted repositories to avoid malware or outdated code. The Magisk Module Repository hosted at https://magiskmodule.gitlab.io/magisk-modules-repo/ is an excellent resource. When looking for the specific components needed for this fix:

1. Search for “Tricky Store”: This is the primary tool for hardware attestation spoofing.
2. Search for “LSPosed”: Essential for module management and hooking.
3. Search for “Play Integrity Fix” or “PIF”: Look for modules with recent update dates and high user ratings.
4. Search for “Shamiko”: Ensure you have the latest version compatible with your Magisk version.

Always read the “Readme” or description provided in the repository. Developers often post specific instructions for devices like the Pixel 6 Pro or for specific Android versions (e.g., Android 14 QPR3).

Conclusion: Achieving Passable Integrity on Pixel 6 Pro

Resolving the “Pixel 6 Pro not passing integrity check” issue requires a multi-layered approach. It is not enough to simply install one module. We must combine Tricky Store (with a valid keybox), a compatible PIF module, and Shamiko (for root hiding) in a precise configuration. The Pixel 6 Pro’s Tensor G2 architecture makes it distinct, but it is not impervious to these spoofing techniques.

By carefully managing the device fingerprint, ensuring the hardware security layer is spoofed via Tricky Store, and maintaining the hidden status of root through Shamiko, we can restore access to banking apps and Google Pay. The process is technical and requires attention to detail, specifically regarding the validity of the keybox.xml and the compatibility of the PIF fingerprint with the current Play Integrity API version. We recommend following the steps outlined above, rebooting between changes, and clearing app data to force the integrity re-evaluation. This comprehensive strategy is the current standard for bypassing device integrity certification on modified high-end Android devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does my Pixel 6 Pro fail integrity even with Shamiko?

Shamiko hides the presence of root (Magisk) from apps, but it does not spoof the hardware-backed attestation check performed by the Play Integrity API. The Pixel 6 Pro’s Titan M2 chip checks the boot chain. If the bootloader is unlocked or the kernel is patched, the hardware check fails. You need a tool like Tricky Store to spoof this hardware-level check.

What is a keybox.xml and why do I need it?

The keybox.xml contains cryptographic signing keys that mimic the keys found on a certified, factory-locked device. Tricky Store uses this file to sign the responses to the integrity requests, tricking Google into thinking your modified device is a stock, secure device. Without a valid, unrevoked keybox, Tricky Store cannot function.

Can I use Magisk Delta or Kitsune Mask instead?

While alternative Magisk builds like Kitsune Mask have built-in denylist and hiding capabilities, the core issue remains the hardware attestation. Using Tricky Store and PIF modules is generally required regardless of the Magisk variant, though Kitsune Mask may handle the hiding of the Magisk app itself more effectively.

Is “Component Spoofing” different from using Tricky Store?

“Component spoofing” is a general term for injecting fake data into system components. Tricky Store is a specific, modern implementation of component spoofing that targets the hardware security module interfaces. It is currently the most effective method for this purpose.

How often do I need to update my PIF fingerprint?

You should update your PIF fingerprint whenever you see integrity checks start to fail again. Google constantly updates the Play Integrity API and blacklists old fingerprints. Following community channels (such as on GitHub or XDA) for news on when a new fingerprint is required is best practice.