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Rooting with Magisk on my Moto Edge 2021 (berlna)
Comprehensive Guide to Rooting the Moto Edge 2021 (berlna) with Magisk
Rooting the Moto Edge 2021, codenamed berlna, offers unparalleled control over your device, allowing you to transcend the limitations imposed by the manufacturer. By installing a custom ROM like Evolution X and rooting with Magisk, you unlock a new ecosystem of customization, performance tweaks, and system-level modifications. However, the process requires precision, especially when handling critical files like the boot.img. We understand the dilemma presented in community forums: whether to use a generic boot.img from a custom recovery flash or follow the strict Lenovo RSA method that triggers a factory reset.
In this comprehensive guide,我们将 walk you through the definitive method to root your Moto Edge 2021 without unnecessary data loss, assuming you have already installed a custom ROM. We will explore the intricacies of the berlna hardware, the importance of the correct bootloader matching, and the step-by-step procedure to patch the kernel using Magisk. Our methodology prioritizes data integrity and system stability, ensuring that your transition to a rooted environment is seamless.
Understanding the Moto Edge 2021 (berlna) Hardware and Software Architecture
To successfully root the berlna, one must first understand the device’s architecture. The Moto Edge 2021 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G chipset, which utilizes an A/B partitioning scheme. This is a critical detail often overlooked in generic rooting guides. In an A/B partition system, the device maintains two sets of system partitions (slot A and slot B) to facilitate seamless over-the-air (OTA) updates. When flashing a custom ROM or rooting, you must ensure compatibility with this dynamic partition structure.
The boot.img file is the cornerstone of the boot process. It contains the Linux kernel and the initial ramdisk (initramfs). When you flash a custom recovery like TWRP or OrangeFox, you are essentially replacing the recovery partition. However, flashing a custom recovery does not automatically provide you with the correct boot.img for your specific ROM version. The boot.img is part of the firmware package, not the recovery image.
The user inquiry mentioned using Lenovo RSA (Rescue and Smart Assistant). This tool is designed to flash official firmware, often requiring an unlockable bootloader and resulting in a factory reset. While it ensures you have the absolute correct stock boot.img, it is not strictly necessary if you have already flashed a custom ROM. Instead, we can extract the boot.img directly from the custom ROM’s firmware zip file or the stock firmware corresponding to your specific build number.
The Role of Magisk in Modern Android Rooting
Magisk has evolved into the de facto standard for rooting Android devices due to its systemless interface. Unlike older rooting methods (like SuperSU) that directly modified system partitions, Magisk mounts a virtual partition overlay. This allows you to pass SafetyNet checks (though more difficult on newer Android versions) and use banking apps while rooted. For the Moto Edge 2021, Magisk is the only viable option for maintaining system integrity while gaining root privileges.
Magisk works by patching the boot.img. You take the original boot.img from your current ROM, patch it using the Magisk app, and then flash the resulting patched image via a custom recovery or fastboot. This process modifies the kernel to load Magisk modules at boot without altering the system partition permanently.
Resolving the Boot.img Dilemma: Custom ROM vs. Lenovo RSA
The core question posed by the user is whether they can use the boot.img downloaded when flashing the custom recovery or if they must resort to the Lenovo RSA method. The answer lies in the specificity of the firmware version.
- The Custom Recovery Boot.img: When you flash TWRP, you are flashing an image to the recovery partition. The file used for this is twrp.img, not boot.img. If you are asking if you can use a random boot.img found online alongside TWRP, the answer is no. Using a mismatched boot.img (e.g., one from a different Android version or security patch level) will almost certainly result in a bootloop.
- The Lenovo RSA Method: This method downloads the official stock firmware for your device. While it guarantees a matching boot.img, it requires a factory reset because it flashes the entire stock OS. If you have already set up Evolution X, this method will wipe your data, which is undesirable.
- The Optimal Solution: The best approach is to extract the boot.img from the exact same firmware package that your current custom ROM is based on. Most custom ROMs, including Evolution X for berlna, are built upon a specific base firmware (e.g., a specific Motorola factory image). You must identify the base firmware version of your Evolution X build.
If you do not have the original firmware zip, you can download the specific stock firmware for your device model and region using tools like LMSA (Lenovo Moto Smart Assistant) or via the XDA Developers forums. Once downloaded, extract the zip file. Inside, you will find several image files. Locate boot.img. This is the file you must patch with Magisk.
Prerequisites for Rooting the Moto Edge 2021 (berlna)
Before proceeding, ensure you have the following requirements met. We strictly advise following these steps to avoid bricking your device.
- Unlocked Bootloader: Unlocking the bootloader is the first step. Motorola provides an official method to get the unlock key via their website. Note that unlocking the bootloader wipes your device.
- Custom Recovery: You must have a custom recovery installed. For berlna, look for the latest TWRP or OrangeFox build specifically compiled for your device.
- Magisk App: Download the latest stable release of the Magisk APK and rename it to
Magisk.zipif you plan to flash it via recovery (though patching the boot.img is preferred for berlna). - Platform Tools: Download the latest Android Platform Tools (ADB and Fastboot) on your PC.
- The Correct boot.img: Obtain the stock boot.img that matches the Android version of your custom ROM.
Identifying the Correct Firmware Version
To find the correct firmware for your Moto Edge 2021 (berlna):
- Navigate to Settings > About Phone.
- Look at the Build Number (e.g.,
RPA31.Q2-59-35-15). - Search for this build number on XDA forums or firmware download sites.
- Download the full OTA zip or factory image containing the boot.img.
Step-by-Step Guide: Patching boot.img with Magisk
We will now detail the process of patching the boot.img using the Magisk app. This method is safer than flashing generic root packages and ensures compatibility with the berlna kernel.
Preparing the boot.img
- Extract the downloaded firmware zip.
- Locate the boot.img file.
- Transfer this file to your Moto Edge 2021’s internal storage or SD card.
Patching with Magisk
- Install the Magisk APK on your device.
- Open the Magisk app.
- Tap on the Install button next to the Magisk header.
- Select “Select and Patch a File”.
- Navigate to the boot.img you transferred and select it.
- Magisk will begin the patching process. Once finished, it will save the patched image as
magisk_patched.imgin your Download folder. - Transfer this
magisk_patched.imgback to your PC’s Platform Tools folder.
Flashing the Patched boot.img via Fastboot
Since you already have a custom recovery and a custom ROM, we will flash the patched kernel via Fastboot. This is the standard method for A/B partition devices like the Moto Edge 2021.
Boot into Fastboot Mode:
- Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
- Open a command prompt or terminal in your Platform Tools folder.
- Type
adb reboot bootloader. - Alternatively, power off the device, then hold Power + Volume Down.
Verify Connection:
- Type
fastboot devices. You should see your device serial number.
- Type
Flash the Patched Image:
- On A/B devices, you typically flash to the current active slot. To be safe, we flash to both slots or identify the active slot first.
- To check the current slot:
fastboot getvar current-slot. Let’s assume it is a. - Flash the patched image:
fastboot flash boot_a magisk_patched.img fastboot flash boot_b magisk_patched.img - Note: If your device uses a vendor_boot partition (common in newer Android versions), you might need to patch and flash that instead of or in addition to boot. However, for berlna, the standard boot.img patching usually suffices.
Reboot:
- Type
fastboot reboot. - The device may take slightly longer to boot the first time as Magisk sets up.
- Type
Verifying Root Access
Once the device boots:
- Open the Magisk app.
- Check the Installed version. It should show the version number next to “Magisk”.
- Use the “Magisk” button to verify that the installation method is “Systemless”.
- You can now install modules from the Magisk Module Repository.
Troubleshooting Common Issues on berlna
Rooting the Moto Edge 2021 can encounter specific hurdles. Here are solutions to common problems.
Bootloop after Flashing
If the device gets stuck in a bootloop:
- Reboot to Fastboot.
- Reflash your custom ROM’s boot.img (the original, unpatched one) to restore boot capability:
fastboot flash boot_a boot.img - Re-evaluate the boot.img you patched. Ensure it matches the exact base firmware of your Evolution X build.
SafetyNet and Banking Apps
Even with Magisk, some apps detect the rooted environment.
- Enable MagiskHide (or Zygisk in newer versions) in the Magisk settings.
- Configure the deny list to hide root from specific banking apps.
- You may need additional modules like Universal SafetyNet Fix, available in the Magisk Modules repository.
Custom Recovery Disappears
After flashing a patched boot.img, the custom recovery might be overwritten by the stock recovery or disappear. This is because the recovery partition is separate from the boot partition, but some ROMs include scripts that restore stock recovery on boot.
- Fix: Re-flash the custom recovery (TWRP/OrangeFox) via fastboot immediately after flashing the patched boot image and before the first boot:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
Advanced: Using Magisk Modules for Enhanced Functionality
Once rooted, the Magisk Module Repository becomes your toolbox. For the Moto Edge 2021, we recommend modules that enhance the Snapdragon 778G performance and battery life.
- LKT Magisk Module: Optimizes kernel parameters for better battery standby.
- Viper4Android: For superior audio processing (requires SELinux permissive or specific permission handling).
- FPS Uncapper: Allows games to run at higher frame rates (ensure display refresh rate compatibility).
- Systemless Hosts Module: Essential if you plan to use AdAway without breaking system integrity.
Always read the module description carefully before installing. Incompatible modules can cause system instability.
Maintenance and Updates
Rooting changes how you update your device. You cannot accept standard OTA updates once rooted without losing root or causing a bootloop.
Updating the Custom ROM:
- Download the new ROM zip.
- Boot to recovery.
- Wipe Dalvik/Cache.
- Flash the new ROM zip.
- Do not reboot yet.
- Flash Magisk (if the ROM includes a new boot image, you may need to patch the new boot.img again and flash it, or flash the Magisk zip if using the recovery method).
- Reboot.
Updating Magisk:
- Open the Magisk app.
- Tap Install > Install to Inactive Slot (After OTA) if you are updating your system, or just Install to update Magisk itself.
Conclusion
Rooting the Moto Edge 2021 (berlna) with Magisk is a rewarding process that unlocks the full potential of the device. To answer the original query directly: Do not use the boot.img from the custom recovery flash. That is the recovery image, not the boot image. Do not use Lenovo RSA if you wish to avoid a factory reset and data loss. Instead, download the stock firmware that matches your current Evolution X base version, extract the boot.img, patch it with Magisk, and flash it. This method ensures a stable, rooted system without compromising your setup.
By following this guide, you ensure that your device remains stable, secure, and fully customizable. Always remember to back up your data before making any modifications and proceed with caution. Welcome to the world of unlimited Android customization.