Android rooting and sideloading custom OS were once popular practices among tech enthusiasts, especially during the early days of smartphones like Xperia phones. Rooting grants users administrative access to their devices, enabling them to remove bloatware, install custom ROMs, and unlock advanced features. Sideloading custom operating systems allowed users to personalize their device experience, enhance performance, and extend hardware longevity.However, at that time, the risks were relatively low since sensitive applications like Google Pay or Samsung Pay were either non-existent or in their infancy. Today, with the rise of mobile payment systems and stricter security protocols, rooting poses significant risks. Rooted devices are more vulnerable to malware, and many financial apps refuse to run on them, citing safety concerns.While rooting still appeals to a niche audience for its freedom and customization, the balance between utility and security has shifted, making it less mainstream in the era of modern, secure Android devices.
