Your mileage may vary? (YMMV?)

I just switched out of Verizon to T-Mobile, using an unlocked former AT&T phone. So first, I wantthe world of Android is the world of felxibility - I want to be able to do what I want with my phone, even if it is nothing.

I used to build all my computers, partially because I could do it cheaper than Dell, etc, but also because I wanted control over the components - I wanted the machine that I wanted, not someone else's made-for-everyone box.

So it is partially just a geek-move - I want to do it so I can say I did it. I want to do it because I can. I wouldn't say it has anything to do with the rigidity of my manliness, though.. :)

As for Bricking...bahh....I suspect the risk of bricking is not so great if I do my research and can follow directions...

I think, by and large, rooting is an easy procedure, because some people have developed very easy-to-use tools to accomplish it. You'll have to look up the precise software for your HTC, but I think it'll be pretty easy for you to find.

Rooting is the process by which you achieve "root" (administrative) privileges on your phone, which could allow you to remove the default factory software, install a different OS, use applications that require more hardware controls, etc., etc.

Decide what you want to do with a rooted phone before you do it, though. Make sure you back everything up before you do it, and I think rooted phones lose their warranty, but you'll have to check up on that.

Krellin,

I am much impressed, my friend. In some ways, you and I are kindred spirits. Best of luck to you on this - please keep us posted on your continuing adventures.

Al...why are you impressed? In what way are we kindred spirits? I'm curious...as I do find it difficult at times to track my detractors in the forums -- are you one whom, on a regular basis, would call me vile things, and thus you find you are somewhat surprised that we are "kindred" in this area of technology?

pangloss - Yes, I'm aware of the "high level" details of what rooting does (admin rights) and that my dear piece of technological wizardry must be backed up (doing so, again, as we "speak').

What I'm really looking for is:

1. WHY should I do it? I'm seeking anecdotes about the wondrous fun others have experienced.
2. Recommendations on custom ROMS and other "root-necessary" apps that I may want to use.
3. General impressions from your experience. I.e. I did it and LOVE IT!! versus I did it and...meh...not much difference. Generally speaking, I use my phone frequently. Perhaps what I really need is just a new/better launcher...but I love the idea of rooting.

1. Freedom.
2. Cyanogen Mod, Nova/Apex Launcher, icon packs, AdBlock, BusyBox, Reaver, some sort of battery-saving app, F-droid.
3. I also enjoy freedom, so it wasn't a hassle for me. It might be for you, depending on your own preferences.

1. Freedom and control. Also, I'm not sure if this is still the case, but at one point, you couldn't truly back the phone up unless it was rooted.

2. Xposed framework. This will let you make a lot of the modifications you would get in a ROM without installing a ROM. There are also ways to control the LED, vibration patterns, etc that require root. You could also try Tasker.

3. I've always had a rooted Android. I enjoy being able to make it look and behave exactly the way I want it to.