How to Root the Samsung Galaxy Xcover (S5690) running Android 2.3

The Xcover is a device that was released back in 2011 and apart from being sturdy with resistance to dirt and water, came with Android 2.3 on board.  Samsung, as usual, hasn’t been too keen on releasing updates for this now low-end device and seems to ignore the fact that users want more from their devices as days go by.  But the developer community hasn’t been idle and as a first step, this device can be rooted to at least install root-requiring apps that enable customizing your device a bit more than what it is at stock.  The guide below will show you how to do just that – root the Galaxy Xcover.

I.  Before You Begin

1.  Make sure your device is charged to 75% or more to prevent unwanted shutdowns.

2.  Back up all the data you feel important before you start.

II.  Necessary Downloads

III.  Rooting the Galaxy Xcover

1.  Connect your device to your PC in USB Mass Storage Mode and copy the universal_gb_root_v26b.zip to your SD card.

2.  Disconnect your device and shut it down.

3.  Press and hold the Volume Up + Home + Power buttons and let them go once your device boots into recovery mode.

4.  Use the Volume Up and Down keys to highlight to apply update from sdcard and press the home button to select it.

5.  Locate and select universal_gb_root_v26b.zip to flash the file.

6.  Once you see the install from sdcard complete message, highlight and select reboot system now.

Your Galaxy Xcover should be rooted once it reboots!

IV.  Unrooting the Galaxy Xcover

If you want to unroot your Xcover, our guide on the same should help you.

If this procedure helped you please thank/donate to the original developers here.

If you need help with this procedure, please ask in the comments below or in the forum.

This is part of our Android How To’s. We have how to’s on rooting, loading ROMs, and tons of other tips and tricks for your specific device or for Android devices in general! For all of our Android How To’s, head here.