5

3

What will I gain if I root my moto droid? I'm new to the smart phone world as is but so many apps require root access I'm curious about it. I like the phone stock but it seems there are many things that I can do if I root though I don't really know what they are so I guess that is my question.

flag
Have you learned what the downsides or dangers are especially if one is not experienced in such things? – Cathleen Feb 13 at 21:51

4 Answers

5

Here are some of the benefits of rooting an Android device.

  • Installing applications to the SD Card instead of internal memory. Not only does it allow more applications to be installed on the phone, but it also frees up available memory to RAM, which greatly enhances multitasking.
  • Ability to install and run custom ROMs. Community developers usually include cutting-edge technologies into their builds that enhance the handsets' functionality. These ROMs tend to be highly optimized which translated to a more responsive phone. These ROMs are usually better supported by developers and enjoy higher frequency of updates.
  • Elevated privileges (root) allows apps access to parts of the system otherwise restricted. E.g. screenshot, WiFi/USB tethering, full file system browsing and backup, firewall, etc.
  • Ability to overclock the CPU to give the phone performance boost.
  • Ability to run useful Linux utilities for extending RAM such as Swap and Compcache.

Unfortunately you will have to wait a while until a method of rooting the Droid is discovered.

link|flag
4

As far as I know, it's not yet possible to root a Droid.

Assuming it becomes possible at some point, the one biggest advantage in my opinion is the ability to store apps on the sd card and run them from there, rather than being limited to internal memory.

Another nice feature is being able to easily take screenshots.

link|flag
Thanks I didn't it was available yet which is ok because I'm not sure if want to root it yet. – token Nov 17 at 6:39
3

Wifi tethering alone is enough reason for me to want to root my Droid (when it becomes available). That way I can use both my Droid and iPod Touch online anywhere. :)

link|flag
Have you rooted yet ? I have not, but I think I will soon... – token Dec 20 at 9:15
Not yet, but I think I will soon too – Bryan Denny Dec 21 at 19:16
2

This is just an advisement of some folks who are actively tinkering with some kernel exploits to attempt to root the Droid.

To be honest, I went through the discussion forum and it's over my head but perhaps it is one to watch.

[link text]http://wiki.droid-devs.com/index.php?title=Main_Page[1]

[link text]http://alldroid.org/viewtopic.php?f=210&t=431[2]

link|flag

Your Answer

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.