- There are several methods to root Android, from apps to Magisk, but they carry risks such as loss of warranty and security problems.
- Alternatives like Shizuku and Canta allow you to remove bloatware without needing root access, and regulations to facilitate this are already being discussed in Europe.
- VMOS offers a virtualized environment with root access, ideal for testing apps without compromising the main device.
If you're thinking about rooting your phone or simply want to regain control over the software you're using, here we'll tell you about traditional methods, tools that prevent rooting, and a virtualization solution that makes everything more secure. All of this is presented with a focus on the European context, where authorities are already taking steps to encourage manufacturers to give users more freedom.
Traditional methods for rooting Android
The classic way to obtain administrator permissions goes through apps like KingRoot or Kingo Android RootThese apps, which work with a single click, are only compatible with older models (Android 2.0 to 6.0). They are simple, but pose serious security problems, as there is no control over what they do with the device. A more reliable alternative is Magisk, an open-source tool which allows rooting even on Android 16 and also helps to Hide root access on Android so that apps like Google Wallet continue to function. To install it, you first need to unlock the bootloader and install a custom recovery like TWRPAnother method is to flash ZIP files from recovery mode, although this requires finding the exact solution for each model. On older Samsung phones, Odin could be used with patched firmware, but newer models are more resistant and lose features like Samsung Health or Knox.
Non-root alternatives: remove bloatware with Shizuku and Canta
Not everyone needs root access to have a clean phone. Bloatware—those pre-installed apps from manufacturers and carriers—can be safely removed thanks to... Shizuku and Sing Debloatertwo free apps that take advantage of Android's wireless debugging. Shizuku acts as a bridge to execute system commands, while Canta displays all apps categorized by risk level. The process is reversible: you can remove preinstalled apps With a single tap, you can easily install them if you change your mind. The best part is that it doesn't affect the system partition, so your phone's warranty remains unaffected. This trend is gaining momentum in Europe. Authorities are already discussing regulations that would require manufacturers to allow the complete uninstallation of the pre-installed software, returning control over the device to the user.
Virtualization with VMOS: Root without risks
If you want to try apps that require root access without putting your phone at risk, VMOS is the perfect solutionThis is a virtualizer that creates a complete Android system (based on Android 5.1.1) inside your phone. You can install any app, even those that require root access, and everything remains isolated from the main system. To enable root access in VMOS, simply go to settings, enable developer options by tapping the build number several times, and select the root option. However, you'll need a phone with at least 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, and the virtualization process can cause the device to heat up and drain the battery significantly. VMOS is no longer available on Google Play, but it can be downloaded from its official website.
Ultimately, the decision to root or not rests with each user, but nowadays there are options for all tastes and risk levels. From traditional methods with Magisk to alternatives like Shizuku and Canta for cleaning your phone without complications, to virtualization with VMOS for the more adventurous. The important thing is to be well-informed and, above all, to remember that control of the device should be in the hands of the user, not the manufacturer.
