s7_upgrade_to_r_guide: Further improvements

   * [Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)](#frequently-asked-questions-faqs)

## Introduction:

The upgrade process of S7 Series (herolte/hero2lte) to Android 11 can present challenges for users who have previously configured an SD card as internal storage (Adoptable storage). When an external SD card is adopted, it becomes encrypted with a unique hardware key specific to your device, rendering it inaccessible on other devices of the same model. According to the [Android documentation](https://source.android.com/docs/core/storage), keys associated with adopted devices are based on the adopted partition GUID. Consequently, the contents of the adopted storage device are tightly linked to the Android device that adopted it, preventing the extraction of encryption keys and the mounting of the storage device elsewhere.

Devices using an external SD card as internal storage (adoptable storage) can present some challenges during an Android upgrade. So, this guide exists to help those using an SD card as internal storage, and wish to upgrade to Android 11 on Samsung S7 devices (specifically the herolte or hero2lte).

Due to numerous issues and the lack of support accompanying Adoptable storage, many OEMs have already dropped support for this feature. Therefore, starting from /e/OS Android 11, we have removed Adoptable Storage support for all S7 Series Devices.

The contents of an external SD card used as internal storage are encrypted with an unique encryption key generated by hardware specific to your device, even other devices of the same make and model can't access the SD card's content.

For more technical information, you can visit the following links:

The unique encryption key can't be extracted and ported to another device because the [key is based on the adopted partition's GUID](https://source.android.com/docs/core/storage).

Starting from /e/OS Android 11, we will stop supporting Adoptable storage on all Samsung S7 Devices due to lack of support for Adoptable storage from OEMs and issues mentioned above.

Further reading:

- [SDCardFS Deprecation](https://source.android.com/devices/storage/sdcardfs-deprecate?hl=en)

- [AOSP Adoptable Storage Documentation](https://source.android.com/docs/core/storage/adoptable)

This introduction aims to provide users with a deeper understanding of the complexities associated with SD card internal storage and its implications during the upgrade process. Understanding these intricacies is crucial for successful upgrade management and data preservation.

1. Prepare for the Upgrade:

`IMPORTANT STEP`

## 1. Preparing for the Upgrade:

Before proceeding with the upgrade, users should complete the following preparatory steps:

- **Backup Data:** Perform a comprehensive backup of all data, including files, apps, and settings stored on the device and the SD card.

- **Charge Device:** Ensure the device is sufficiently charged or connected to a power source to prevent interruptions during the upgrade process.

- Create a full backup of all data stored on the device and the SD card. Create two backups - one local (like on an USB drive) and one offsite (like Murena cloud) to ensure you never lose your files, apps, and settings.

- Charge your device above 50% to prevent mishaps and interruptions during the upgrade.

2. Upgrade Procedure:

## 2. Upgrade Procedure:

Follow these detailed steps to navigate the upgrade process effectively:

1. **Backup Data:**

   - Utilize appropriate backup methods, such as cloud storage or PC backup, to safeguard all data.

2. **Format SD Card as Portable Storage (Removal of Adoptable Storage)**

   - Go to Settings -> Storage -> Select SDCard -> Click on 3 Dotts at Top and Select Format as Portable Storage

   - This will effectively format your SDCard as Portable Storage (External Storage) and will remove Adoptable storage completely

3. **Perform the Upgrade:**

PS: Don't forget to `Backup your device data` (see step 1).

1. Format the SD Card as Portable Storage:

`WARNING: This step will turn OFF the option to use SD card as Adoptable Storage and DELETE all data stored on the SD card.`

   - Navigate to Settings -> Storage -> SDCard -> Tap on 3 Dots at top and Select `Format as Portable Storage`.

3. Perform the Upgrade:

   - Initiate the upgrade process as per the OTA Updater instructions, ensuring a stable internet connection and adequate storage space.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Address user inquiries and concerns through comprehensive FAQs:

1. **What about Apps Installed on SD Card?:** 

    - Some apps have retained App data and worked fine even after Removal of Adoptable Storage.

    - In-case there is loss of app data then such apps may require to be setup'd again.

1. **Will apps installed on SD Card lose their app data?:** 

    - It's best to assume that apps installed on the SD card will lose their app data and need to be setup again using the backup you created.

    - During our tests, some apps didn't lose their data after removal SD card as Adoptable Storage, but please don't assume that an app won't lose it's data. Please backup your data before performing this upgrade.

2. **Is there possibility to use Adoptable Storage after upgrading to Android 11:** 

    - No. Adoptable storage supported is removed starting from Android 11.

2. **Is there possibility to use SD card as Adoptable Storage after upgrading to Android 11:** 

    - No, Adoptable storage options will not be supported starting with Android 11.