OK so I decided to write a tutorial with some hints on how to make a Sense 3.6 theme. This may also work on Sense 3.5 but I don’t have it to test it. This is done on Windows 7 64bit, but it should work similarly on earlier versions of Windows.
What you will need
M10 Tools
APK Multi Tool
Photo Editing Software – I use Photoshop AND Fireworks but Gimp will also work
Notepad++
Latest java and adb
Patience
Creativity
Please follow the instructions for proper installation of all of these tools on their respective page.
Download my basis theme
Copy the file into the place-apk-here-for-modding folder
Open the script
Option 25 – Set Current Project
Choose the basis theme
Option 9 – Decompile
Go to the Projects folder
Go to the com.htc.skin.rachelm920_basis folder
Go to the res folder
Drawable-hdpi and drawable-land-hdpi have the images. Values has the .xmls
Make any image edits you like. Also make and .xml edits you like.
I typically take the images in this folder and separate them based on the type, making several folders for different things like “pressed”, “focused” , “normal” “black” etc. Then whatever I changed black to I also change any references to 000000 to the color I changed it to. I do the same for the other colors. Make sure you keep the black lines on the .9 images. I usually use the “magic wand” to select the black borders and then do an invert selection so I select the rest of the picture. Make sure you move all the images back when done, and delete the folders.
Choose AndroidManifest.xml and open it with notepad++
Under where it says package=”com.htc.skin.rachelm920_basis” change the rachelm920_basis to what you would like your theme to be titled
Open M10 tools – M10Editor.exe
Click Load file
Browse to Projects\com.htc.skin.rachelm920_basis\assets\rachelm920_basis\drawable
Make sure the file type is m10 file
Choose shared.m10
Click on the m10 files tab
Check the Decode images box
Click Decompile/Show
In the editor tab select textures then texture
You should see a picture on the right
Right click on the picture and choose show in explorer
Make any image edits you like. I do the same process here as I did in the other folders.
In M10 tools click on the start tab
Click Save File
Close the M10 tools
Browse to projects\com.htc.skin.rachelm920_basis\assets
Rename rachelm920_basis to your skin name
In the Image folder, put a wallpaper you would like your skin to have as wallpaper.jpg replacing the one already there
This folder also contains the theme previews which are impossible to achieve unless you have root and a screen print program AFTER you install the theme on your phone.
Go back to APK Tool
Choose 11 - Compile
Is this a system apk? No
Would you like to copy over any additional files that you didn’t modify from the original apk in order to ensure least # of errors? YES
Go to the keep folder
Delete resources.arsc, the rachelm920_basis folder, wallpaper.jpg, and all of the images in drawable-hdpi and drawable-land-hdpi folders
Go back to APK Tool and press any button
Choose 12 - Sign apk
Go to the place-apk-here-for-modding folder. There should be a file called signedcom.htc.skin.rachelm920_basis.apk. Rename it to your theme's name. You can remove the word "signed" also.
Copy to the SD Card on your phone, browse using a file explorer and install.
If you have problems recompiling make sure that all of your .9 images have the black borders. Check the log file, it usually tells you what you did wrong.
Some good websites –
http://www.colourlovers.com where I get my color schemes from
http://www.color-hex.com a good hex site and also gives you color schemes based off of one color.
PS - The basis theme does not look good, it is just a basis to use to create your own.
Open for me
question, does this make a theme or a skin?
Skin sorry I worded it wrong
Sent from my customized Amaze from tapatalk
Guess I'll be giving this a shot other than my typical theming methods, thanks.
Wow I had been looking for something like this for a while. thanks
M10 tools
Can't get M10 tools to install, any direction you can give me?
Calabrese1984 said:
Can't get M10 tools to install, any direction you can give me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need a net.4 framework installed.
Red.
M10 tools
I do have net.4 framework installed.
Calabrese1984 said:
I do have net.4 framework installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then what do you mean it won't install? You have to extract the zip file and run the .exe file inside it.
Sent from my PG86100 using Tapatalk 2
Thank you, I got it!
Thanks for good guidence
Lost
2.Copy the file into the place-apk-here-for-modding folder
3.Open the script
Where can i find the folder? how about the script? Sorry, noob...
cordz said:
2.Copy the file into the place-apk-here-for-modding folder
3.Open the script
Where can i find the folder? how about the script? Sorry, noob...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both the script is at the root of apkmanager. The the folder referred to is the /place-apk-here-for-modding/ folder, also in the root of apkmanager.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
why am i getting this(see attachment)
and also in step16 there is no assets file ?!?
How
Help.Bro how do i rename a sense theme and isntall it twice?
the basis theme's download link is gone
please give me a substitution or a solution
New link is up... still had it on my laptop Happy theming!
HELP
please I need your help
I didnt understand step 2
where is this "place apk here for modding after"?
stevenson97 said:
please I need your help
I didnt understand step 2
where is this "place apk here for modding after"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the apk tool it should have made several folders
Sent from my gorgeous Galaxy S3
Related
I looked around and found a whole lot of nothing.
halp
Re
To create a theme your going to want to edit the visual ui of the phone. A good place to start is the systemui.apk and the main theme of the phone, in cm7's case, the cyanbread and system themes witch you can also find in system/app. Bassically with the systemui.apk and theme you are editing of your choice will be the finished product if your just starting, making a theme from scratch is a bit more complicated. As for boot animations that I believed is located in data/local and fonts should be in a folder for them selves I cannot think of the topr off of the top of my head but it is easy to identify I'm sure.
the way I edit and make themes is use the above apk's and just go crazy with transparencys and colors in gimp. Be in mind your going to need a Linux based os to edit the apks and place and take them from your zip rom your theming. I also think ther might be a apks editor for windows but idk what it is called.
Re
To create a theme your going to want to edit the visual ui of the phone. A good place to start is the systemui.apk and the main theme of the phone, in cm7's case, the cyanbread and system themes witch you can also find in system/app. Bassically with the systemui.apk and theme you are editing of your choice will be the finished product if your just starting, making a theme from scratch is a bit more complicated. As for boot animations that I believed is located in data/local and fonts should be in a folder for them selves I cannot think of the the closer off of the top of my head but it is easy to identify I'm sure.
the way I edit and make themes is use the above apk's and just go crazy with transparencys and colors in gimp. Be in mind your going to need a Linux based is to edit the apks and place and take them from your zip Tom your theming. I also think there might be a apks editor for windows but idk what it is called.
ya you are going to need to have the android sdk setup for the ADB and then you will use something like apk manager for pulling, extracting, decompiling, image edits, or xml edits which you can find here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=695701
you will need the SDK setup first
which can be found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=834748
and here
http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
then you need to know simple ADB commands like:
"adb pull /system/app/Mms.apk" and push command which is "adb push Mms.apk /system/app/"
more commands here:
http://developer.android.com/guide/developing/tools/adb.html
and
http://androidforums.com/evo-4g-all-things-root/187820-how-adb-commands.html
it is also a GOOD idea to learn to use Eclipse for the compiling of the .9.png files which cannot be just simply edited and saved like a normal .png file can.
NOTE: the best way to edit the .9.png files are going to be with the Draw9Patch tool that is included in the SDK and draw the black lines (guides) this is located in the tools folder and then you use Eclipse to compile .. get rid of the black lines pretty much.
info about the .9.png can be found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=487001
info for eclipse, like how to set it up and download it is here:
http://developer.android.com/sdk/eclipse-adt.html#installing
does say to use the classic version of Eclipse.
once you have all of that figured out then you are pretty good. But there are other stuff to learn to like the programs themselves and stuff .. you will have to look on Google a lot .. I know that there isnt anything much there about any of this stuff .. I kid you not .. it took me a good 2 days to figure out how to use the apk manager and eclipse and how to alter the .9.png files. That was from getting bits and pieces off the web and a lot of trial and error .. the support around here sucks so dont expect much.
there is also a video that shows you how to setup the sdk along with the eclipse that is here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIL1UouA4dE
just use the previous links above to get the stuff like the sdk is at version 10 now and then the Eclipse Classic.
If this is too much for you to do and figure out then you are out of luck.
Yeah, I've used ADB and Eclipse before. I'm quite ****e at Eclipse, but I guess I could mozy around a bit and see if I could get the hang of it enough to do themes. I'm really eager to do that stuff.
Anyway, is there anything I'll have to look out for in regards to turning my phone into a lovely paperweight?
wauterboi said:
Yeah, I've used ADB and Eclipse before. I'm quite ****e at Eclipse, but I guess I could mozy around a bit and see if I could get the hang of it enough to do themes. I'm really eager to do that stuff.
Anyway, is there anything I'll have to look out for in regards to turning my phone into a lovely paperweight?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eh nothing that I have come across or know about.
so if you know ADB and a little with eclipse . what exactly are you trying to figure out?
Right now I'm trying to figure out how to open the APK. I used WinRAR to open the file and now when I try to open it in Eclipse, it just opens WinRAR. >_>
wauterboi said:
Right now I'm trying to figure out how to open the APK. I used WinRAR to open the file and now when I try to open it in Eclipse, it just opens WinRAR. >_>
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the easiest and the best method is to use that apk manager that I linked in there and use that to extract the apk after you pull it from the phone using ADB
I usually use the adb pull /data/app and adb pull system/app to get all the apk files out at the same time.
after they are out you will put the ones you want to alter (up to 10 at a time) into the place apk here for modding folder and then open apk manager terminal ..
1) type 22 to select the apk that you want to mod.
2) then you will type 1 to extract it.
3) then you can go to the projects folder to see the extracted apk contents.
- usually the images that you want to alter will be in the res/drawable or the
res/drawable-hdpi or res/rawable-hdpi longfinger
- also some of the apps that do not use the .9.png files you will have to find
the image in two folders ... one for portrait mode and landscape mode.
alter the images you want and put them in the original folder.
4) then you will optimize the images which is option number 2.
5) then you will sign the apk which is number 3.
- if it is a system app select the correct option
6) then you will see an unsignedsomething.apk in the place apk here for modding.
7) to sign the apk you will hit number 4.
8) and then number 5 to zipalign the apk.
when you go back to your place apk here for maodding folder you will see that the unsignedsomething.apk is now signedsomething.apk
then you will push that to your phone using the adb/push something.apk /sdcard
then simply install the apk from the phone ... may have to uninstall the original app first.
winrar will not open the apk .. 7zip will . but i rarely use this as I cannot see the thumbnails for the images and cannot optimize the apk with it or anything else for that matter.
Here is a link to the wiki for the T-Mobile Theme Engine.
http://code.google.com/p/tmobile-themes/w/list
My laptop was stolen recently so I won't be able to help anyone out until I can get a new one. Thanks for stopping by though.
This is no longer a tutorial, just a simple user friendly Lock Ring Kit.
Please download the updated kit at the bottom of this post.
I will also take requests here for anyone who doesn't want to mess with it.
Since people are still rocking 2.3.3 ROMs, please specify if your ROM is 2.3.3 or 2.3.4 when making a request. There are subtle differences.
Also you have a few rosies to choose from, let me know which one you want. If you don't request something specific, I'll just make the default rosie. Rosie choices attached at the bottom of this post. If you would like a rosie I don't have here, let me know and I'll see what I can do to add it to the kit. Also, I've played around a little with themes enough to feel comfortable to help out wherever I can. So if you have a request that is not related to my kit, I still may be able to help you out.
All 2.3.3 requests I've done are posted on Post# 3 and Post# 4
2.3.4 version requests are posted on Post# 125 and Post# 126
Thumbnail gallery of all the Lock Rings I've made HERE
Links to my Lock Ring folders on Box.net
2.3.3 Lock Rings
2.3.4 Lock Rings
2.3.4 Lock Rings - Transparent Rosie
2.3.4 Lock Rings - Red Outline Rosie
First of all, this is intented for Deodexed ROMs on the EVO 3D. Other qHD devices may work as well but I cannot guarantee. For devices such as the EVO 4G (WVGA), use one of the tutorials below . While these mods have been working flawless on several ROMs, there is the occasional error. Just to be safe MAKE A NANDROID to go back to if something goes wrong. If you don't read up and just flash something, lock ring mods or any other, and something should screw up, you can't be mad at anyone but yourself if you've got nothing to go back to.
With this method, your ring will only show up on the default skin or the HTC supplied skins, Burgundy and BlueSky. Every custom skin has its own lock ring which overwrites the default. If you have a custom skin installed and would like a custom lock ring, go to my second post for a mini tutorial on editing custom skins.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I originally learned how to make these from this thread: [Tutorial] Sense 3.0 Custom Lock Ring Kit so big thanks to jmaher1023 for that.
Another thread to check out is [TUTORIAL] User-Friendly Custom Lock-Rings for Sense 3.0 (EVO 4G) by gamendorf. *Thanks gamendorf for the help with the batch file.
Also, you should stop by this thread [DEV-TOOLS] [MODE10] Mode10Tools now released ! and give thanks to Flemmard and Diamondback2010, the devs of the m10 tools that make all this possible.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As Posted by Diamondback2010 in the m10 tools thread:
System-Requirements
You need a working .NET 4 Framework installation to run the M10Editor.
m10decoder and m10encoder should run in console-version without anything special.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instructions
1. Unzip the attached Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.3.zip or Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.4.zip to your C drive (C:\Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.3) or (C:\Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.4)
2. Pick your image and resize it to 271x270. For the image to show up correctly you have to rotate it 180 degrees and mirror it. Your image must be saved as a .png
3. Save your edited image as LockRing.png and move it to the root of your Lock Ring Kit
4. Run the batch file for the Rosie you want (look in "Rosie Screenshots" folder to decide)
5. A flashble zip file will be created at the root of your Lock Ring Kit. Rename it, sign it if you want, move it to your SD Card and flash in recovery
E3D_Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.3.zip
Dropbox Mirror
E3D_Lock_Ring_Kit_2.3.4.zip
Dropbox Mirror
Recent Changes:
Added in Red Outline to the rosie choices
*Not that anyone actually reads the entire first post, but just for your information, making Lock Rings for GSM and Sense 3.5 is not possible yet. As of right now m10 tools is unable to decompile these m10 files. Until we get a m10 tools update for these we have no way to edit.
The above comment was really nothing more than a speculation. I went ahead and asked the devs of the m10 tools if they could confirm what I thought and this was his answer...
Diamondback2010 said:
Well yea, I have to leave you here without hope
This fusion apk uses the new type 14 images. There is no way atm to decode them
You just have to wait as well as the sense 3.5 crowd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big Thanks to Donators:
-NascarKid
-nuggyunlimited
-Foxworth
This is a quick tutorial for anyone who wants to edit just the lock ring of a custom skin. Honestly it's more to get you playing with M10Editor.exe.
Again, pick your image, resize it to 271x270, rotate 180 degrees, and mirror.
Inside the M10_Tools folder there is M10Editor.exe.
1. Open M10Editor.exe.
2. Click the Load File button and choose the skin.apk you want to edit.
3. Go to the m10 files tab and highlight the only m10 file shown (usually shared.m10)
4. Check the Decode Images check box.
6. Click the Decompile/Show button.
7. Once clicked, you'll be moved to the Editor tab.
8. Expand by clicking the arrow next to shared.m10.
9. Continue to expand until you expand Textures.
10. Scroll through Textures until you see the default (or sometimes modified) lock ring image.
11. Right click the image and choose Show in Explorer.
12. The image will already be highlighted when the explorer opens, copy the name of the highlighted file.
13. Change the name of your image to the one you just copied and drag or copy your image inside to replace it.
14. Close the explorer and go back to the Start tab in M10Editor.exe.
15. Click the Save File button. If you want to change the name of the apk when prompted, go ahead.
16. Sign the apk and install through a file explorer.
Sometimes you have to reboot for the lock ring to show.
Personally when I edit a skin, I also edit my ROMs fusion.apk and Idlescreen_Base.apk in order to remove traces of the default ring. Some ROM creators mod these apks for their ROM. If you know for sure that your ROM does not have a modded fusion.apk and Idlescreen_Base.apk you can simply use my lock ring kit to make your lock ring. If your ROM does have a modded fusion.apk and Idlescreen_Base.apk you should pull those files from the ROM and use M10Editor.exe to edit those files directly. The only m10 files you need to edit are the Default shared.m10 in fusion.apk and Lock_ring_motion.m10 in Idlescreen_Base.apk.
Requests
For 2.3.3 ROMs. If your on 2.3.4 and see something you like, post or PM me to get it converted. Or read the tutorial and attempt it yourself.
For 2.3.3 ROMs. If your on 2.3.4 and see something you like, post or PM me to get it converted. Or read the tutorial and attempt it yourself.
same here...
aannd another
And Ill join if thats ok with you guys!
And one more since Im on a role!
Does decompiling m10 files multiple times decrease the quality of the images in them?
triscuit1983 said:
Here's a quick tutorial of how to make lock rings for those who want to learn.
First of all, this is intented for Deodexed ROMs only. Also, with this method, your ring will only show up on the default skin. If you have a custom skin installed and would like a custom lock ring, go to my second post for a mini tutorial on editing custom skins.
I originally learned how to make these from this thread: [Tutorial] Sense 3.0 Custom Lock Ring Kit so big thanks to jmaher1023 for that.
If you want to, watch the video tutorial to get an idea of what to do.
DO NOT download the Lock Ring Kit attached in that thread, because the files included are not for qHD.
I've included a modified Lock Ring Kit for E3D here: E3D_Lock_Ring_Kit.zip
The E3D Lock Ring Kit and tutorial are about the same as jmaher1023's tutorial, but I changed the process and folder organization a little to hopefully simplify things.
Also, you should stop by this thread [DEV-TOOLS] [MODE10] Mode10Tools now released ! and give thanks to Flemmard and Diamondback2010, the devs of the m10 tools that make all this possible.
If you don't already have one, download an archiver like 7zip or WinRAR. I use 7zip.
To keep things simple, unzip the attached E3D_Lock_Ring_Kit.zip to your C drive (C:\Lock_Ring_Kit)
Inside the Lock_Ring_Kit you will see 3 folders (Copy Contents to Working, M10_Tools, Working), a zip file (Base_Lock_Ring.zip), and a doc file (Names & Commands.doc).
Now pick your image and resize it to 271x270. For the image to show up correctly you have to rotate it 180 degrees and mirror it. Save the edited image to a place of your choosing.
Now your ready to start creating the lock ring.
This is my method, step by step:
1. Open your Lock_Ring_Kit folder and (obviously) copy the contents of the Copy Contents to Working folder to the Working folder.
2. Open your Working folder and copy your edited image to the following folders - BlueSky1,Burgundy1,Default1, and Lock_ring_motion1.
3. Open the Names & Commands.doc and rename your copied images to the PNG Names. After renaming the images, move them into the inner folder and replace the existing image (eg. move the BlueSky png into BlueSky1\shared).
4. Open command prompt and change directory to C:\Lock_Ring_Kit\M10_Tools.
5. Go back to the Names & Commands.doc and copy and paste each of the m10 Commands into comand prompt and hit enter. This will compile new m10 files with your image inside.
6. Now you have to copy the newly compiled m10 files to their correct location within the Base_Lock_Ring.zip. The newly compiled m10 files are
in folders BlueSky(shared.m10), Burgundy(shared.m10), Default(shared.m10), and Lock_ring_motion(Lock_ring_motion.m10).
7. Copy the Base_Lock_Ring.zip to the Desktop or anywhere else you'd like.
7. Use 7zip (or WinRAR) to open Base_Lock_Ring.zip (eg. Right click>7-Zip>Open Archive)
8. Navigate to \system\app\fusion.apk\assests\BlueSky\drawable and drag your newly compiled shared.m10 file inside to replace the existing shared.m10. Do the same for Burgundy and Default. Use the back or folder up button to update the apk. A prompt will come up asking if you want to continue.
9. For Idlescreen_Base.apk, navigate to \assests\scenes\base and drag your newly compiled Lock_ring_motion.m10 inside to replace the existing Lock_ring_motion.m10. Back out to update the apk, and close the archiver.
That should be about it. You can rename the Base_Lock_Ring.zip to whatever you like. I'd say go ahead and sign the zip, but thats up to you. Put the zip on your SD Card, go into recovery and flash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When doing step 3, if using Vista or Windows 7, make sure to omit the .png extension when renaming your edited image from the word document. You will end up with a .png.png and nothing will have changed.
Rydah805 said:
Does decompiling m10 files multiple times decrease the quality of the images in them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I've seen so far. But with the files I've provided in the E3D Lock Ring Kit, your only compiling. I've included the decompiled files for you to add your image and compile. Unless your talking about m10 files in general and not specifically the files I've included?
ducky1131 said:
When doing step 3, if using Vista or Windows 7, make sure to omit the .png extension when renaming your edited image from the word document. You will end up with a .png.png and nothing will have changed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In that case, you can simply delete the .png part in your Names & Commands.doc. I show all file extensions on my computer and I copy and overwrite the whole name, extension and all. If you want to show file extensions to be able to see .png on your image name, go to Folder Options in your explorer, go to the View tab, scroll down and uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types".
Here is a black Chevy logo I made for a friend using your lock ring kit, thought I'd share
Black Chevy Logo Lock Ring
Is there a way to edit the rest of the lock screen? Like the bar at the bottom where the lock ring sits on? I see what looks like the png for it in the images in the default, bluesky, and burgandy folders. I tried editing them and compiled them back to shared.m10 and ten flashing the zip but it didn't work. I was able to edit the background of the clock on the home screen this way and it worked but again I was unable to get the same result for the stuff at the bottom (the bar and soft buttons). Is there another place where these are edited or am I doing something wrong?
mikeaveli007 said:
Is there a way to edit the rest of the lock screen? Like the bar at the bottom where the lock ring sits on? I see what looks like the png for it in the images in the default, bluesky, and burgandy folders. I tried editing them and compiled them back to shared.m10 and ten flashing the zip but it didn't work. I was able to edit the background of the clock on the home screen this way and it worked but again I was unable to get the same result for the stuff at the bottom (the bar and soft buttons). Is there another place where these are edited or am I doing something wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm thinking that is probably within Rosie.apk but I don't really know. This m10 file stuff is new to me and I'm slowly learning. m10 files are reminiscent of cab files on windows mobile to me. I'm hope someone who has been doing full themes can comment on this.
triscuit1983 said:
I'm thinking that is probably within Rosie.apk but I don't really know. This m10 file stuff is new to me and I'm slowly learning. m10 files are reminiscent of cab files on windows mobile to me. I'm hope someone who has been doing full themes can comment on this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahhh thanks, i'm poking around in there and that looks more like what I was looking for. Hmm so I wonder what all those png files in the m10 files in fusion are for.... Thanks for pointing me in the right direction though hopefully thats all I need.
Can one of you guys make an Indianapolis Colts lockring? Everything I make comes out looking like ass.
ducky1131 said:
Can one of you guys make an Indianapolis Colts lockring? Everything I make comes out looking like ass.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will this work?
Colts_Lock_Ring-signed.zip
thanks.....
Thanks a bunch for the tutorial! I made one for the guys...its a singe upper female anatomy part so I wont post it here...but it is pretty fully to drag it out into the screen If anyone is interested pm with your email. Not sure if im permited to host it here somehow so I wont. Working on other ones so I will update when I make some cool ones.
triscuit1983 said:
Not that I've seen so far. But with the files I've provided in the E3D Lock Ring Kit, your only compiling. I've included the decompiled files for you to add your image and compile. Unless your talking about m10 files in general and not specifically the files I've included?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I'm speaking in general...?
Hi. I just wanted to write a guide on modifying apks. You probably have seen my rom in the ported section.
(I'll make the guide look better when I get home)
Well lets get started.
1.
First. An introduction to what an apk is. An apk is (believe it or not) a zip of files.
2.
So how do you go about editing a zip? I suggest using 7z on your computer or root explorer on your phone.
Second: there are a lot of apks you can edit but for this guide I'll be using the systemui.apk that you find in any rom in the system/app folder.
3.
Ok. So assuming you start with the system ui apk your going to need to extract the apk with 7z on your computer. (or root explorer on your phone. Es file should work also)
4.
Now you should have a new folder where you chose to extract your apk. Open that folder. Your going to see a bunch of files. What your probably going to be interested in is the res folder. Go into that folder and find the drawable hdpi folder. Open it.
Your going to see a lot of icons. Here is where you can change things like wifi icons. You can add 4g icons and so much more. Even edit what your contacts look like.
5.
This is an important step. Make sure your using the system ui apk from the rom your currently on or make sure its compatible with yoir rom.
Ok so now we get to the things like icon changes. Download a theme you've been dying for but couldn't get because it was either for another rom or phone. And the only thing you wanted was a few things from the theme.
Now extract that zip. Then extract the systemui.apk again from the zip you want your icons to look like. MAKE SURE YOU RENAME THE THE SYSTEM UI TO SOMETHING DIFFERENT SO YOU DON'T MIX THEM UP.
6.
So now that you got the system ui apk with whatever you want to use all you need to do is go into the drawable hdpi of the one with the icons you want in it. Copy them and bring them to your roms stock system ui and replace them.
7.
Thats about it. Now zip your roms stock system ui back up and change the ending to .apk. Then put it in system/apps and replace it. Reboot. And boom. Your modded apk is ready.
Hit thanks if I helped.
for step three rename the. apk to .zip its easier
This can only be used for replacing regular images in the APK. There are many images that are .9 images which require decompiling.
There are MANY guides across xda that go into detail and show you the proper way to modify APK's..... There is much more then images.
This one is even in this forum: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1388459
Hi there! Just wanna share..
Just a basic background on how to theme your ROMS. - ofcourse, give thanks to the developer of your ROMs! .
I made this thread for those users who have personal wishes for their Phones. Ofcourse, ROM developers cannot please all of its users. so just make your own and be happy!.
I just made it easy for easy understanding and for the newbies.
Tried so many times and tested
I've already tried editing the systemUI.apk of different ROMs.
Here's what I did :
FIRST : Download 7zip to open the archived apk. - that's free.
Extracting first the Zip File..
(make sure you copy the original before extracting it for back up)
1. Download the ROM.zip and extract it to your PC.
2. Go to \system\app\SystemUI.apk\res\drawable-ldpi\
3. View the PNG files you wanted to change and make sure to remember its' file name.
4. After editing/changing the file/image you wanted, you can save it anywhere from your PC, let's say on your Desktop.
- Make sure that the file name still remains as is..
*After you're done editing, updating the PNG files you wish to change, follow this steps to update the zip file :
NOTE : You can apply transparency by editing the PNG file to photoshop by reducing the opacity of the image
1. Go to the original ZIP file of ROM.Zip from your PC
2. Right Click the folder and select 7 ZIP -->> open archive
3. Close all of windows/Browers (or minimize)
4. Go to \system\app\SystemUI.apk\res\drawable-ldpi\ and it will open a new window of 7zip showing the files inside the zip.
5. Now, given your edited PNG files or downloaded png files (assuming that files are located in your desktop). - Click and simply DRAG the file(s) from your desktop to \system\app\SystemUI.apk\res\drawable-ldpi\ .
6. It will ask you to confirm the action for it will replace the existing PNG file that you're trying to change.
7. Make sure that the file name of the one you edited/downloaded are THE SAME. -
8. After dragging and replacing the files you wanted, then you're good to go!
9. Close the 7zip window and that's it!.
You can now install the .zip by copying the UPDATED zip file to your SD Card.
(Note: Make sure to copy the updated one, not the backed up one)
Install the zip file from the original thread's instructions and reboot twice.
After that, you have now a customized systemUI.apk.
For those who do not want to reinstall the whole package.. follow these steps:
1. I assumed that you have the zip file of your ROM.
2. Extract it and go to \system\app\
3. Separate the SystemUi.apk - put it on your desktop. create a back up,
Right Click SystemUi.apk and select 7 ZIP -->> extract here - just to view the files you wanted to change.
Just go the folder and search for the PNG files.
4. Right Click SystemUi.apk and select 7 ZIP -->> open archive.
5. Go to \res\drawable-ldpi\
6. Click and simply DRAG the PNG file(s) from your desktop to \res\drawable-ldpi\
7. It will ask you to confirm the action for it will replace the existing PNG file that you're trying to change.
8. Make sure that the file name of the one you edited/downloaded are THE SAME. -
9. After dragging and replacing the files you wanted, then you're good to go!
APPLYING :
1. Download and install rootexplorer.apk
2. Download the png files you wanted to update.
3. Copy and paste the NEW SystemUi.apk that you have updated/Edited to your SD card.
4. Open root explorer in your galaxy y then go and tap MOUNT R/W.
5. Go to \SDCard and go to new SystemUI.apk that you have updated.
6. Long press the file and select copy
7. Press back and go to \system\app - tap MOUNT R/W at the top.
8. Paste the new SystemUI.apk from there.
(Note : You will encounter a lot of force closes for the exixsting systemui is currently being used by your phone. - just ignore it a lot and scroll down to look for the new SystemUI.apk.
9. Once you get there, long press on it and select permissions:
from the pop up, make the checked one like this :
•___•____ •
•___ .____.
•___ .____.
where Dots are the checked one - Bigger dots
After encountering a lot of force closes, then reboot the phone and that's it!
(Force Closes are normal, DON't PANIC - logically, you are currently using your systemUI.apk so just ignore it
NOTE : You can also apply the same steps in editing system files apps, just edit the .png files and locate it using 7zip(when you already opened it). Have a little LOGIC on how to edit system app background - same process. just different apk files and directory
HIT THANKS IF I HELPED YOU - IT COSTS NOTHING ;]
nice guide
you can also add this:
Install via ADB:
adb root
adb remount
adb push [file location in PC] /system/app/systemui.apk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no need to set permissions via ADB
also its better to use apk multitool since it can compile/decompile the apk's, if you extract the apk using 7zip or archive softwares you can't read the XML's and you can't compile them properly which results to force close issues when pushing into system
deathnotice01 said:
nice guide
you can also add this:
no need to set permissions via ADB
also its better to use apk multitool since it can compile/decompile the apk's, if you extract the apk using 7zip or archive softwares you can't read the XML's and you can't compile them properly which results to force close issues when pushing into system
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! not that sure how to use that that's why I made it my on way
more easy steps and understandable for newbies.
EDIT :
Yes you it will require to extract the apk files but just to view the image you wanted to change.. the original apk file will be opened thru 7zip and just replace the selected png. It is not recompiling the apk file at all
Tried and tested by the way
try and test it out yourself:
a very powerful apk reverse engineering tool:
APK MULTITOOL
deathnotice01 said:
try and test it out yourself:
a very powerful apk reverse engineering tool:
APK MULTITOOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will try it soon! thanks for the info this is a basic guide for newbies
Just let me know if you need further assistance
how about a gif image?
like the emoticon of repencis on his status bar..
I.M.G said:
how about a gif image?
like the emoticon of repencis on his status bar..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suggest to look for systemUI.apk of repencis and check for the GIF files.. it it is existing, then you can replace that one, following the process ;D
how to change default wallpaper?
ajbm6 said:
how to change default wallpaper?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What specific ROM are u using?
Sent from my GT-S5360 using xda premium
ajbm6 said:
how to change default wallpaper?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
gallery > choose picture > set as > homescreen wallpaper
ajbm6 said:
how to change default wallpaper?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm... if you want a default wallpaper, create a folder named "Wallpaper" inside "SYSTEM" folder and create another folder inside it named "default_wallpaper" then put the jpg file you wanted..
(you can use rootexplorer)
make sure that the file name of the default wallpaper is "default_wallpaper.jpg"
how??
It worked perfectly :highfive: cheers !!! can we change the place of name of network carrier in the notification bar similarly???
Abhibhat said:
It worked perfectly :highfive: cheers !!! can we change the place of name of network carrier in the notification bar similarly???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never tried it before.. haha.. why do you want to change it?
HIT THANKS IF I HELPED YOU. - it costs you nothing!
Sent from my GT-S5360 using xda premium
emompong said:
Never tried it before.. haha.. why do you want to change it?
HIT THANKS IF I HELPED YOU. - it costs you nothing!
Sent from my GT-S5360 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont want to change it i want to change its place in the status bar!!!:laugh:
Abhibhat said:
I dont want to change it i want to change its place in the status bar!!!:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh.. my bad lol, hmm not actually getting what you're saying, give me a screen shot pls.
Abhibhat said:
It worked perfectly :highfive: cheers !!! can we change the place of name of network carrier in the notification bar similarly???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try this app if you wanna change network carrier hxxp://db*tt/ZRdrSUg7
note : change " * " with " . " and change " hxxp " with " http "
dnt forget to press thank button hehe
emompong said:
oh.. my bad lol, hmm not actually getting what you're saying, give me a screen shot pls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
its like we gb users have the carrier name under the wifi and other buttons in status bar but i want it like that in cyanogenmod at the bottom!!!
Abhibhat said:
its like we gb users have the carrier name under the wifi and other buttons in status bar but i want it like that in cyanogenmod at the bottom!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmm ,, modified carrier name is possible but at the bottom? im not sure about it. of you want to edit you carrier name, tell me,ill share.
background
you know we have backgrounds that are set on the "settings" menu. How to change the background on that. This background also shows on some apps aswell. for example Creeds 2.1 has that purple background.
Thanks:good::good:
Hi welcome to my guide on the Basics of making and editing Skins for sense 4
Skins are incredibly easy to make and can be really good fun, they are also a good way for you to give back to the xda community without really breaking a sweat
What are Skins and how can i make them ?
Skins are HTC's equivalent to themes for The HTC sense U.I (Up to sense 5) and can change many things that you see in your phone, there are two main ways to create and edit the skins. The first and easiest way is using a popular program named VTS by the virtuous team which pretty much does all the tricky and confusing stuff for you, Which is good:good: or you can make it yourself and do all the work yourself, which is what my mini guide is all about :laugh: If you want to save yourself some time then download the VTS program and use this Guide http://www.virtuous-ten-studio.com/index.php/other-stuff/94-how-to-create-your-own-sense-skin
Requirements:
A phone or Device that actually runs Sense 4 *Duh
A computer or laptop that's newer then Windows 95
7zip or WinRar (google them if you dont have them already)
A programe called Notepad++
A brain & a bit of patience
Your HTC framework (com.htc.resources.apk)
And a base skin
1. Download the skin you want to use as a base for creating or editing (this will save a lot of time.) examples of base skins are ones we already have such as Matte/serene/aluminum which can be found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2038155
Your'e also going to want to get the htc framework .apk which is now known as "com.htc.resources.apk" from your phone found in the root of your device under system/framework/ ..... Make sure both of these apk files are in a folder on your computer where your going to remember
2. Now your going to want download this http://www.4shared.com/zip/Z8rB_hIS/file.html and extract it then put the FOLDER "APKTOOL" into a new folder called android and move it to the root of your'e C directory (or equivalent) Your'e also going to want to move both "Base skin.apk" and "com.htc.resources.apk" Inside the Apktool folder (just so its easier for you later)
After you've done this you're gonna want to install the framework and decompile the "base skin.apk" Use this guide to help you Decompile http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1989533
3. Okay so once you've successfully completed the above steps you can now finally edit the images of the theme as you please (the extracted should be in a folder in "C:\android\apktool"
In the folder named Assets you'll find 4 images in this folder you can: change the preview image that you would see in personalize before you select the theme, and the wallpaper that will be automatically set when you choose your skin in personalize
In the folder named res you'll see a load of different folders, but the only folders we care about for now is the folder called "drawable-hdpi" where you can edit .pngs as you like with a program like: Photoshop or Gimp. (Don't edit .9.png's though until your'e experienced)
As an example we can change the lock ring (see the screenshot below) (if you want inspiration for lockrings then check this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=22011398
In the res folder there is another folder called Values Edit Strings.xml with a program called notepad++. You'll see a line of text in the xml that says <string name="skin_name">Matte (or what ever the base skin was called)</string> you can edit "Matte" text to whatever you want the name of your theme to be e.g. " <string name="skin_name">Beats Skin by Joe</string>" then make sure you save.
4. So now you need to recompile the folder into an .apk refer back to this guide (the bit says finishing/recompiling finished project) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1989533
5 Now to finish it off you need to sign the .apk and align it, so use this https://code.google.com/p/apk-signer/
6. Now copy the Signed and aligned .apk to your device, and install it. :fingers-crossed:
*I don't take credit for any of the tools used in this guide, all i did was brought it all into one in this thread for you
However if you want to hit the thanks button then don't be shy about it
*I'll sort out the font and size of the text soon, add more screen shots, and make a video on how to do it so its slightly easier to see and understand
....
If you follow the simple steps above you'll get something like the Skin attached
Nice one! Added to Index.