How To Modify build.prop on Android: With/Without Root

Prerequisites

– ADB installed on your computer.

– Rooted Android Device (if you’re using the root method).

– USB Debugging enabled on your Android device.

– A plain text editor like Notepad++ for Windows or Geany for Linux.

– TWRP Recovery installed, depending on the method you choose.

Modify build.prop Using ADB and Root

Let’s dive into one of the most reliable ways to edit build.prop using ADB. You’re probably thinking, “Do I really need root?” Well, for this method, yes. But don’t worry, it’s more straightforward than you might think.

Enable USB Debugging

Before anything, make sure your device can communicate with your computer via ADB.

1. Go to Settings > About Phone.

2. Tap Build Number seven times to unlock Developer Options.

3. Go back to Settings, open Developer Options, and toggle USB Debugging.

Install ADB and Check Device Connection

Install ADB on your computer if you haven’t already. You can grab the ADB setup from here.

After installation, open a terminal or command prompt and navigate to the ADB directory:

cd C:\path\to\adb

Connect your device to your computer and check if it’s recognized:

adb devices

If your device appears in the list, you’re good to go.

Remount System as Read-Write

For any changes to stick, the system partition needs to be writable.

adb root
adb remount

Pull the build.prop File

Next, pull the build.prop file to your computer so you can edit it in a safer environment.

adb pull /system/build.prop

Edit build.prop

Open the pulled file with Notepad++ or another plain text editor. Make your desired changes. It could be adjusting the DPI, changing device identifiers, or improving performance settings.

Push the File Back and Fix Permissions

After saving your changes, push the edited file back to the device:

adb push build.prop /system/build.prop
adb shell chmod 644 /system/build.prop

Reboot the Device

Finally, reboot your device to apply the new settings.

adb reboot

Modify build.prop Without Root

Not everyone wants to root their device — and that’s okay. You can still modify some aspects of build.prop without root, but with a few caveats. Let’s get into it.

Enable USB Debugging

The same process applies as above. Ensure USB Debugging is enabled in Developer Options.

Use ADB and Shizuku

Download Shizuku, which enables advanced ADB tasks without root. Then, download Package Manager from F-Droid.

1. Open Shizuku and pair it with wireless debugging.

2. Open Package Manager and search for the apps you want to remove or modify.

3. Click Uninstall or adjust the system settings as needed.

While you won’t be able to modify every property of build.prop without root, this method still offers some flexibility.

Modifying build.prop Using a Root File Manager

Editing build.prop directly on your phone is also possible if you’re rooted. Let’s say you don’t want to mess around with ADB or a computer. A file manager can do the trick.

Install a Root File Manager

To begin, download a trusted root-enabled file manager like Root Explorer or Solid Explorer.

Navigate to the build.prop File

Once installed, open the file manager and head to:

/system/build.prop

Edit build.prop

Tap on the file and open it with the built-in editor. Be sure you know what changes you’re making — editing the wrong line can lead to issues.

Save and Set Permissions

After making changes, save the file and set the permissions to:

rw-r--r--

Finally, reboot the device to activate the changes.

Modifying build.prop Using TWRP

TWRP makes the process even easier. If you’re comfortable using custom recoveries, this method is a breeze.

Boot into TWRP Recovery

To get into TWRP:

1. Power off your device.

2. Hold Power + Volume Up simultaneously until the TWRP screen appears.

Mount the System Partition

In TWRP, head to Mount and select the System partition. This step ensures that the system files can be modified.

Edit build.prop

Use TWRP’s file manager to navigate to:

/system/build.prop

Open it with TWRP’s built-in text editor, make your changes, save, and reboot.

Editing build.prop might seem intimidating at first, but with the right method, it’s entirely manageable. Whether you’re looking for a non-root solution or

a more advanced route with ADB and root, this guide covers it all. Now, what changes will you make to your device? Ready to tweak your Android and make it truly yours?