LinuxCommandLibrary

abroot

Switch between A/B root partitions

TLDR

Add packages to the local image (Note: After executing this command, you need to apply these changes.)

$ sudo abroot pkg add [package]
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Remove packages from the local image (Note: After executing this command, you need to apply these changes.)
$ sudo abroot pkg remove [package]
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List packages in the local image
$ sudo abroot pkg list
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Apply changes in the local image (Note: You need to reboot your system for these changes to be applied)
$ sudo abroot pkg apply
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Rollback your system to previous state
$ sudo abroot rollback
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Edit/View kernel parameters
$ sudo abroot kargs [edit|show]
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Display status
$ sudo abroot status
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Display help
$ abroot [[-h|--help]]
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SYNOPSIS

abroot [options] <device> | <action>

PARAMETERS

-s, --slot
    Specify A/B slot (a or b)

-r, --root
    Install root (e.g., Magisk) to current slot

-b, --boot <image>
    Flash patched boot image

--set-active <slot>
    Set active boot slot

DESCRIPTION

The abroot command is not a standard utility in mainstream Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, or Debian. It appears in niche contexts, particularly Android development and rooting communities. Abroot refers to tools or scripts handling A/B partition rooting on Android devices, which use A/B seamless updates (dynamic partitions). These are often custom scripts or binaries from GitHub repositories (e.g., for Magisk integration or custom ROM flashing). On Linux hosts, it might be invoked via adb or fastboot wrappers to manage boot images, slots, and root access across A/B slots. Usage requires Android SDK tools and is risky, potentially bricking devices. Not documented in man pages; consult specific project repos for details.

Primarily used by developers to switch root between slots without full wipes.

CAVEATS

Not available in standard package managers (apt/yum); compile from source or use pre-built binaries from untrusted repos. High risk of device bricking. Requires root/adb/fastboot privileges. Android-specific, not general Linux.

INSTALLATION

Clone from GitHub (e.g., git clone https://github.com/example/abroot), build with make, or download binaries. Ensure USB debugging and OEM unlock on device.

SAFETY NOTE

Backup data first. Test on emulator if possible. Incompatible with locked bootloaders.

HISTORY

Emerged around 2017-2018 with Android 8.0+ A/B updates (Project Treble). Developed in rooting communities like XDA-Developers for handling dual boot slots without data loss. Evolved with Magisk v20+ for systemless root.

SEE ALSO

fastboot(8), adb(1), magiskboot(1), avbtool(1)

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