i'm new to android..yes it's been awhile since I upgraded, I'm still using my winmo. I'm planning to get the aria, but had a few questions.
I noticed a few folks are complaining about no side loading apps, but this won't be an issue if you root the phone right?
About rooting, it's equivalent to unlocking the phone? What happens if you root it? Do you have to flash it with a rom or does it still operate the same way? Does it downgrade to something else other than the eclair?
Do you need to have the 'gold card' on the SD card while rooting the Aria?
I'm totally new to this, so unsure of all of the 'rooting' activities. I'm used to the flashing and HardSPL stuff.
Thanks!
You don't need to root the phone to sideload applications. You can actually get around it easily with the developer's tools (developer.android.com, download the sdk, it'll have a directory called 'tools' inside and a program in there called 'adb')
There's a guide on how to do it in the development forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=706887
As for rooting, it's basically the same thing as jailbreaking an iphone. It gives you admin privileges to your phone, so you have the option of flashing a custom rom, or removing att's crapware.
judicious said:
i'm new to android..yes it's been awhile since I upgraded, I'm still using my winmo. I'm planning to get the aria, but had a few questions.
I noticed a few folks are complaining about no side loading apps, but this won't be an issue if you root the phone right?
About rooting, it's equivalent to unlocking the phone? What happens if you root it? Do you have to flash it with a rom or does it still operate the same way? Does it downgrade to something else other than the eclair?
Do you need to have the 'gold card' on the SD card while rooting the Aria?
I'm totally new to this, so unsure of all of the 'rooting' activities. I'm used to the flashing and HardSPL stuff.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completed the rooting process without a gold card, also sideloading apps is stupid easy with the guide that's posted in response
modest_mandroid said:
You don't need to root the phone to sideload applications. You can actually get around it easily with the developer's tools (developer.android.com, download the sdk, it'll have a directory called 'tools' inside and a program in there called 'adb')
There's a guide on how to do it in the development forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=706887
As for rooting, it's basically the same thing as jailbreaking an iphone. It gives you admin privileges to your phone, so you have the option of flashing a custom rom, or removing att's crapware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do I need to set up adb? I've been browsing through few forums, and some phones require it, but not sure if Aria does. Is adb requirement dependent on an app, rom, or the actual phone itself?
What exactly is a gold card for? I heard that some Rom flashes need it and also needed for rooting the Aria. Do I just leave the gold card inside the phone while rooting?
panda703 said:
I completed the rooting process without a gold card, also sideloading apps is stupid easy with the guide that's posted in response
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you follow the same steps in the guide? I wonder if it will brick the phone without the gold card.
judicious said:
Did you follow the same steps in the guide? I wonder if it will brick the phone without the gold card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes I followed the guide step by step and this is my first android phone as well so it was all new to me and the guide made things easy. the only frustrating part was getting the phone to recoverymode with adb.
panda703 said:
yes I followed the guide step by step and this is my first android phone as well so it was all new to me and the guide made things easy. the only frustrating part was getting the phone to recoverymode with adb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear a lot about 'recovery' mode..what exactly is it? is it like hard reset? when you rooted your phone, did you have to install the rom again? or you used it as-is how you bought the phone?
recovery mode is just like your hard spl but you have a recovery image on the phone that allows you to flash roms and other zip files. android is alot diff than that of windows and the way that you go about flashing roms and themes. Overall you will like android tons more because winmo is outdated and slow.
This will be my first android phone, so obviously it will be my first with sense ui. Can you use user-defined images as background images? And what would make for a good resolution for such images so they look normal when panning left/right.
mcaxrb71 said:
This will be my first android phone, so obviously it will be my first with sense ui. Can you use user-defined images as background images? And what would make for a good resolution for such images so they look normal when panning left/right.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would probably use a 640 x 480 wallpaper. If you are creating your own wallpapers, and want a crisp looking image, it wouldnt hurt to use 300dpi. There is also an Android App you can get from Zedge.net, they have some really nice wallpapers.
mcaxrb71 said:
This will be my first android phone, so obviously it will be my first with sense ui. Can you use user-defined images as background images? And what would make for a good resolution for such images so they look normal when panning left/right.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you want to make it span across all 7 screens, it'd have to be 2240x480.
jbizz said:
I would probably use a 640 x 480 wallpaper. If you are creating your own wallpapers, and want a crisp looking image, it wouldnt hurt to use 300dpi. There is also an Android App you can get from Zedge.net, they have some really nice wallpapers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
modest_mandroid said:
if you want to make it span across all 7 screens, it'd have to be 2240x480.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you both. I'm sure I'll have a fun time messing with it next week when I pick up my phone. I was debating on saving some extra cash for an iPhone 4 or the new Samsung galaxy/whatever, but I'm really not impressed with the user interface of either of them. They both kind of have that "endless pages of icons" thing going on, which is pleasantly absent from the Sense UI from what I've seen from other HTC phones.
What is a gold card?
I've seeing lots of mentions of gold cards, but haven't seen any explanation of what they are.
Can someone enlighten (and others) or send me a link to learn about it?
Thanks in advance.
I think its how you format the sd card is why it dosen't work, not the fact of it being a gold one. Can someone confirm? Does the sd card have to be formated in fat32 or something?
Related
[STICKY] [FAQ] Official Atrix "Ask A Dev" & FAQ Thread (Last Update: 05/31/2011)
Official Atrix "Ask A Dev" & FAQ Thread
So, there's a ton of misinformation and confusion going around about the Atrix. I'm gonna go through this section best I can and pick out questions that I think should be in here. If you have one you'd like added or have a question to ask, post here and I'll answer and update the first post with the results. I will do my best to provide links, explain as best I can, and keep things UP TO DATE (which is the most important thing). I hope that users will see this thread and use it to their advantage. There's a lot of info out there, and I know it can be confusing, so I want to give everyone a place they can come ask questions or read information they know will be up to date. Feel free to ask anything you wish to know and I'll do my best to answer
PLEASE try to keep the thread clean. Post questions, keep discussion at a minimum (if there's a relevant discussion thread, I will link it here), and be polite.
Without further ado, let's get started with the basics.Frequently Asked Question - Updated 05/31/2011
Q: "What is"/"How do I" root?
A: If you don't know what root is, chances are you don't need it. This is the basic of the basics of Android modification. Go ahead and do a little research first if you don't know what it is. You can root almost all Atrix devices using the method in this thread, just identify what device you have an follow the appropriate tutorial: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1016060
If your device isn't supported by GladRoot, you can follow this guide by jug6ernaut: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1046626
Q: What is a ROM/P-ROM?
A: This is one of the more tricky questions when it comes to the Atrix. Designgears set the standard by calling Adeo a ROM. This is loosely based in truth. When we refer to an Atrix ROM, what we are doing is basic Android customization. It could be themes, a few added features (reboot/recovery in power menu, sideloading, adding a tethering APN for certain carriers, etc), or just an automated install for a deodexed system. They are not true ROMs, but we'll take what we can get.
As of GladiAtrix3 beta, I changed the name of these mods to Pseudo-ROM, or P-ROM for short (yes, pronounced 'prom').
Q: What is an SBF? How do I flash it?
A: An SBF file is the Motorola base firmware. There are only a few SBF files available, and instructions (Thanks to seven2099) to use them can be found here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13604217&postcount=2. The guide was written with the Bell Atrix in mind, but this process will work with any version provided you have the correct SBF for your device. This guide by kennethpenn contains links to a few of the SBFs for AT&T devices: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=991072
It should also be noted that these files are NOT community provided. They are leaked from Motorola, are are technically for internal Motorola use only. Do NOT ask where we get them, how we get them, or if we can make you a custom one. We cannot.
Q: What does "deodex" mean?
A: This guide has a pretty good explanation of what the difference between odexed and deodexed is: http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/what-is-odex-and-deodex-in-android-complete-guide/
Q: What is sideloading?
A: Sideloading lets you install any applications, regardless of carrier or market restrictions. This is also sometimes called "Unknown sources." It can be enabled several different ways. Both the GladiAtrix (for 4.1.26, 4.1.52,, 4.1.57, and 4.1.83) and GingerBlur ROMs contain it. You can also enable it using the GladiAtrix Enabler.
Q: <app> in the market doesn't work! Help!
A: There are several applications still that have not been updated to support the Atrix. It uses a lot of new hardware, and does things a little differently. Before jumping on and making a thread saying Motorola sucks for your app not working, contact the developer first and ask them to update.
User Submitted Questions - Updated 04/27/2011
Q: Is there a way to install an apk without finding it and tapping on it? Maybe through terminal emulator and if so what would the command lines be? (submitted by drock212)
A: Yes! You can install applications through ADB on your PC with the command 'adb install <app>.apk' where <app> is the filename of the app you want to install. You can also use a file manager, or as [email protected] mentioned, the Android Market website. Finally, there is a command line that you can use to install: pm install <app>.apk
Q: I have a Bell Atrix (unlocked to work with Rogers). Are there any precautions I need to keep in mind when flashing ROMs, installing the new 1.5.7 update and rooting it all using the At&t files in the Dev forum? (submitted by TareX)
A: Absolutely. As far as I know, you cannot flash any of the AT&T firmwares on a Bell Atrix. This will cause a brick and you will be unable to recover since there isn't a Bell firmware SBF available right now. If anyone has been brave enough to try and flash a Bell Atrix with AT&T firmware and has SUCCEEDED, please let me know.
Q: The atrix has 1GB of ram. Is all of that memory used on the phone or is it like what was rumored and some of it is reserved for the webtop? (submitted by RacecarBMW)
A: The webtop shares memory with the phone side. There is about 800mb free for use by both, with roughly 200mb reserved for system processes.
Q: Are more ROMs in the works? (submitted by danboard)
A: I've been working hard at getting GladiAtrix 2 to a point where I feel comfortable releasing it in CWM format. Unfortunately, I can't speak for other developers. The tools available for the Atrix are relatively limited, and we don't have a very strong base of talented people like other Motorola phones do. I'm pretty proud of what we've managed to accomplish even with such a small userbase.
Q: Can I use my phone on a carrier other than AT&T or Bell? (submitted via PM by [email protected])
A: You can, but you need to make sure that the carrier you want to use the phone on supports the same frequencies as AT&T/Bell. There are a few different ways you can get the phone unlocked. The easiest, and honestly best, way to do it is to call the carrier and ask them for an unlock code. If you're persistent and polite enough, make your case as to why you need the phone unlocked, there's a good chance they'll accommodate. Getting mad and upset rarely works. You can also get an unlock code through several different online sites. This thread talks about sites with unlock codes, and gives you a good idea which to trust. General consensus seems to be that cellunlock.net worked for most users and has a 20$ rebate coupon code: android50
Q: Can I use the Webtop without a dock? (submitted via PM by [email protected])
A: You sure can. It requires modifications to the system files, so if you don't fee comfortable making permanent changes to your phone's OS, you shouldn't be doing this. This thread has a very detailed explanation on how to get it working on your phone, but make sure you match up the proper firmware version or can potentially brick your phone.[/B]
Q: Is there a way to install a full version of linux on the Webtop? (submitted via PM by [email protected])
A: There is a project running to unlock the Webtop OS and allow you full access to install anything you wish. You can read about the progress here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1000316
Q: I don't use the webtop. Is there any way to remove it completely to regain the space on the phone? (submitted by Girgizzlemuf)
A: Unfortunately, you cannot. The Webtop is directly integrated into the Android OS, so removing it would render your phone inoperable. I'm unsure if an unlocked bootloader will allow it to be removed either, as the entire build of Android running on the Atrix was built around the Webtop.
Q: Do I need to unlock before rooting, or are the two completely independent from eachother? (submitted by dropshipinc)
A: Unlocking and rooting are not tied together. You can root without unlock, and you an unlock without root. Unlocking is, in most cases, referring to the ability to use the phone on any carrier. This is called SIM unlocking. Rooting gives you root access to your device. On the Atrix, you cannot unlock your phone by having root. Some devices this is the case, but the Atrix is not one of them.
Q: Will installing a rom prevent OTA updates? If so, can they be easily removed so that we can install OTA updates? (submitted by ratkid2271)
A: Installing any of the currently available ROMs will prevent the phone from applying an OTA update. You should still be able to download them, but the installation will fail. As for uninstalling, you should be making a nandroid backup of your phone with CWM before installing any of them. A simple restore of that backup will prep you for an OTA update.
Special Thanks
Thanks to: drock212, TareX, RacecarBMW, danboard, [email protected], Girgizzlemuf, ratkid2271, and dropshipinc for their submissions.
Is there a way to install an apk without finding it and tapping on it? Maybe through terminal emulator and if so what would the command lines be?
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
It is possible through site of Android Market. Just log-in and you can search and install any app on your phone
That's the problem market doesn't work. I have the apk on an sd card but phone I need to install apk on does not have a file explorer.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
So propably you need to enable sideloading and apply root then instal this .pak or just use the adb tool (search for "instal apk adb")
drock212,
The Atrix has a default file manager in the app menu called "Files". Once opened, just navigate to "SD card" and click the .apk.
-Opish
Yeah lol the issue isn't with my Atrix its for another phone that im trying to port stuff from my Atrix to it but the other phone is all messed up and the market wont connect and it has no file explorer lol
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
I have a Bell Atrix (unlocked to work with Rogers). Are there any precautions I need to keep in mind when flashing ROMs, installing the new 1.5.7 update and rooting it all using the At&t files in the Dev forum?
I bought it off ebay so if I brick it, it's over.
The atrix has 1GB of ram. Is all of that memory used on the phone or is it like what was rumored and some of it is reserved for the webtop?
drock212 said:
That's the problem market doesn't work. I have the apk on an sd card but phone I need to install apk on does not have a file explorer.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there is a file explorer on the phone, it's called "Files"
Please take the discussion to a new thread. I understand you're trying to help, but send a PM. This is Q&A only. Thanks. Updating first post with answers to the questions shortly.
Are more ROMs in the work? Correct me if I m wrong (as I don't know all that much about what the bootloader limits) but since we now have a CWM of sorts, we're able to pretty much change most parts of the android OS excluding the kernel and radio.
In this post:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=12710040&postcount=6
Kenneth stated that the Milestone had more tools and devs than the atrix to get custom roms like miui to work; the dev part I can understand but which tools exactly was he referring to? A few of the things I could think of were the script mods that were available in the open recovery for the milestone but I believe the Atrix already have these features (just not in the CWM).
So I m just wondering is the Atrix at a point where devs are able to mod it as much as the milestone? or is there still quite a ways to go?
Updated first post! Check it for your answers.
So I understand the awesomeness that is the webtop. However, I have no use for it other than to say 'HAY i got a netbook in my phone wanna see??'
Having said that... is there a way to *remove* the webtop entirely, or is this something we are going to have to wait for in the form of a custom rom / unlocked bootloader?
Girgizzlemuf said:
So I understand the awesomeness that is the webtop. However, I have no use for it other than to say 'HAY i got a netbook in my phone wanna see??'
Having said that... is there a way to *remove* the webtop entirely, or is this something we are going to have to wait for in the form of a custom rom / unlocked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, you cannot. The Webtop is directly integrated into the Android OS, so removing it would render your phone inoperable. I'm unsure if an unlocked bootloader will allow it to be removed either, as the entire build of Android running on the Atrix was built around the Webtop.
I've accidentally partitioned my internal SD storage rendering my phone useless. Had to flash and tried all three AT&T SBF files to no avail. Bottom inch of my touch screen is horrendously off.
Anyway to get this back to the OEM settings? Flashing is no help and I'm getting daemon errors in ADB when I try manually formatting and partitioning it. Any way I could commission you to write a script? Talking to a couple others with this problem too. You'd be a hero!
Nice OP Ririal Thanks for being oh so helpful and contributing to the Atrix! Keep up the good work! I wish I can play with your ROMs Hoping that the Bell's SBF will be leaked one of these days (yes I know...wistful thinking...)
bongd said:
I've accidentally partitioned my internal SD storage rendering my phone useless. Had to flash and tried all three AT&T SBF files to no avail. Bottom inch of my touch screen is horrendously off.
Anyway to get this back to the OEM settings? Flashing is no help and I'm getting daemon errors in ADB when I try manually formatting and partitioning it. Any way I could commission you to write a script? Talking to a couple others with this problem too. You'd be a hero!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, I'm not sure what you all changed, but this is something that should not have been messed with. Especially with a locked bootloader, you should NOT be repartitioning your device. I would assume that flashing the SBF would fix this, but again, as I'm not sure what you all did I don't really know for sure.
Ririal said:
Unfortunately, I'm not sure what you all changed, but this is something that should not have been messed with. Especially with a locked bootloader, you should NOT be repartitioning your device. I would assume that flashing the SBF would fix this, but again, as I'm not sure what you all did I don't really know for sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I know it was erroneous but it was late at night and my contacts were all gunky. I clicked on the wrong thing and the way I was holding my device I had already gotten too far into the menu by clicking too fast
Internal SD was partitioned. Flashing didn't help. Was hoping you may know but that's okay... I'll keep trying.
bongd said:
Thanks. I know it was erroneous but it was late at night and my contacts were all gunky. I clicked on the wrong thing and the way I was holding my device I had already gotten too far into the menu by clicking too fast
Internal SD was partitioned. Flashing didn't help. Was hoping you may know but that's okay... I'll keep trying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I wish I could be of more help If you do find out a way to fix it, be sure to let me know or post here, I'll add it up to the FAQ just in case anyone else makes the same mistake. Hope you get it sorted out!
Hi, everyone. I'm new, and i just realize "rooting" will speed up my phone.
I'm totally newbie, i need a tutorial which have more details and attached file for me to help me out.
my phone is I9000M.
And the other question is: what is the definition of ROM, FLASH, ROOT?
mwhin said:
Hi, everyone. I'm new, and i just realize "rooting" will speed up my phone.
I'm totally newbie, i need a tutorial which have more details and attached file for me to help me out.
my phone is I9000M.
And the other question is: what is the definition of ROM, FLASH, ROOT?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting
Rooting is the method in which the user gains 'root access'. Root access is a linux term and is used to define the abilities of the super user account, akin to the 'administrator' account in Windows. This account can modify and change anything on the OS it resides. So when your phone is 'rooted' it is not broken, you are merely in complete control of your phones OS, cool huh?
But what does this mean? Most people don't even realise they aren't in complete control. Well there are a few benefits to having a rooted phone, but there are two big ones. Custom ROMs, and apps.
Firstly, apps. Because you are now in complete control, you can grant apps super user access that require them to work. Such as taking a screen shot of your phone, taking a comprehensive backup of your important data, using the flash as torch light or enjoying an ad-free Android!
Custom ROMs
Firstly what is a Custom ROM? Well a ROM, is actually a colloquial shortened version of 'ROM Image' which in turn is short for 'Read Only Memory Image', and dates back to the cartridge gaming days. Remember slotting that thing into your sega mega drive? or your N64? Anyway, back on track, it's basically an entire OS in a file called an image. So a 'ROM' is a file with an OS in it. Now a 'Custom ROM' is a ROM that has been customised, simple enough, yes? Nearly every device comes with a 'custom' ROM on it, bar two phones so far, the Nexus One and the Nexus S. They are the 'pure' androids so to speak.
So for every phone, there is a ROM preinstalled, this is the ROM the manufacturer has usually developed for that specific handset, or a range of handsets. These preinstalled ROMs usually include a lot of junk called 'bloatware', essentially just apps and links that can't be deleted that you may or may not want. You don't get a choice! The beauty of custom ROMs is you can delete and add anything you like to them!
FLASH
Flashing is the method you use to put a Custom ROM on a phone. Flashable packages are zip files that can be installed by Flashing using a tool like ClockWorkMod.
Let me point you in this direction for your i9000 - http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=748
Goodluck!
Is there any site or source on the web that provides downloads of old versions of Android Market apps? This would be for apps that are now updated or no longer available on the Market? I am looking for a site similar to "OldVersion.com" which has some old/classic PC software (but this would be something for android apps instead)?
Thanks if anyone knows of a source or sites.
CustomShortcut gone?
The app that I am looking for in the above post was a free one called CustomShortcut APK. I now have it on one of my two phones (the other phone had it but was lost and replaced). I have tried looking for a developer page for this app but no luck as everything seems to point back to android market as the source link for download.
Does anyone know of a way or source for me to get this APK back on my other phone? Is there a way to copy it from one phone to the other? I am assuming that it was removed from the market because it may not be compatible with ICS but I am not running ICS. The application was made by appli.club.
Are you rooted? If so use root explorer to look for the .apk in the /system/app folder and copy or email it to the other phone and install it.
85gallon said:
Are you rooted? If so use root explorer to look for the .apk in the /system/app folder and copy or email it to the other phone and install it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No sadly I am not rooted. Is that how this could be done? I have an HTC phone (Sensation) and I like my "sense" gui. Don't want to wipe it out by rooting (that is what would happen, right?) If access to the apk is possible with rooting, then I guess my question would be, does anyone else here have CustomCut on their rooted phone? (Or possibly know of any website that would have those apk's available for download). I would be willing to pay if someone would take the time to send me a replacement copy.
just google for any app you want like this:
"title" "versionnumber" "apk" "download"
for example:
android market 2.9 apk download
mojosingle said:
No sadly I am not rooted. Is that how this could be done? I have an HTC phone (Sensation) and I like my "sense" gui. Don't want to wipe it out by rooting (that is what would happen, right?) If access to the apk is possible with rooting, then I guess my question would be, does anyone else here have CustomCut on their rooted phone? (Or possibly know of any website that would have those apk's available for download). I would be willing to pay if someone would take the time to send me a replacement copy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting will not wipe out your phone or change it other than giving you super user privileges. That way you will have access to get to the system apps folder.
I notice apktop keeps old versions around. But part of the reason I like Titanium backup is because I have a fail safe if a new update to an app is bad, as I can just restore from the last backup the older version.
85gallon said:
Rooting will not wipe out your phone or change it other than giving you super user privileges. That way you will have access to get to the system apps folder.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I am not really too concerned about it wiping out my phone, but I thought I had read many posts here talking about once you root your phone the native skin from the manufacturer is eliminated (for HTC that would be the "Sense" user interface). Can you please confirm? Is this not true? HTC Sense will remain exactly the same after rooting my phone?
The other thing that has made me cautious is that my phone runs perfectly now and I see so many threads on the xda boards here and over at various android forums that start off with "My ____ app is not working right since I rooted...." Just a little daunting for a newbie like myself.
spunker88 said:
I notice apktop keeps old versions around. But part of the reason I like Titanium backup is because I have a fail safe if a new update to an app is bad, as I can just restore from the last backup the older version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much for the site suggestion. I have been trying to search for the CustomShortcut APK over there but no luck ...so far (the site search is not that easy to use). I have even tried to seach the site externally using google but, unfortunately, still no luck.
Wait for someone else to confirm on the htc, but nothing changed on my droidx. I just had superuser privs. All of the "this app quit working" is when people flash custom roms. You don't do that when you just root. But you have to be rooted in order to do things like that. Lol.
Rooting gives you the power to do that if you want to.
When I rooted my droidx, I did it just so I could have the power to do other things if I wanted. I am still on factory rom. But I am able to get to parts of the phone that are off limits if I wasnt rooted. I made it where I could tether, later I got rid of bloatware, etc.
85gallon said:
Wait for someone else to confirm on the htc, but nothing changed on my droidx. I just had superuser privs. All of the "this app quit working" is when people flash custom roms. You don't do that when you just root. But you have to be rooted in order to do things like that. Lol.
Rooting gives you the power to do that if you want to.
When I rooted my droidx, I did it just so I could have the power to do other things if I wanted. I am still on factory rom. But I am able to get to parts of the phone that are off limits if I wasnt rooted. I made it where I could tether, later I got rid of bloatware, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks once again for the reply. Now that you mention it, I remember reading the terminology "flashed" rom and thought they were similar or the same thing as rooting. One other question, once a phone is in a rooted state, if I was to go in and copy the APK for my replacement phone and put it on there could I then "unroot" lol ...sorry if this is not a word... so that my phone was no longer open? I had read somewhere (perhaps I heard it on a TWIT or Android podcast) that when your phone is in root state that anyone (ie: potentially bad software) has easier access to your phone's vunerable areas.
mojosingle said:
Thanks once again for the reply. Now that you mention it, I remember reading the terminology "flashed" rom and thought they were similar or the same thing as rooting. One other question, once a phone is in a rooted state, if I was to go in and copy the APK for my replacement phone and put it on there could I then "unroot" lol ...sorry if this is not a word... so that my phone was no longer open? I had read somewhere (perhaps I heard it on a TWIT or Android podcast) that when your phone is in root state that anyone (ie: potentially bad software) has easier access to your phone's vunerable areas.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you can unroot. As for easy access after you are rooted to vulnerable areas, they can only get access if you let them. If an app wants super user privileges, you will get a pop up from su(the super user apk) telling you that some app is wanting privileges. You can grant or deny access. The only things on my phone that have ever given me a pop up are things that i downloaded and know need su access. Wifi tether, root explorer, adfree, etc.
I have found a site that keeps older version of an android app. It's called Android Drawer.
Hope it helps
There are at least 5 different bootloader/root methods and topics on the first page of "Optimus L9 P760, P765, P768, P769 General"...it's a "maze" of methods.
I have some experience with rooting...I rooted my old G2x and played with several different ROMs, but I am definitely still a noob at this game. This maze of methods makes me want to run away from my son's P769, but I can't because he is out of memory space and insisting that I do something about it. I have read several threads only to learn (a couple of pages into it) that it doesn't apply to ver. 20h or that the programs to be used are deemed "suspicious".
All I want to do is give the kid more space through the use of a larger sd card (class 10). I understand that I need to root and then either keep the stock ROM and use an app like Link2sd (which is all the kid really needs because he will not take advantage of a custom ROM) or I can run a custom ROM that takes proper advantage of the sd card in the first place.
Sorry, but I need to quit reading threads that lead to nowhere or confusion and just ask: Will anybody help me make a decision as to what method to go with? I'm not concerned about it being super-simple, I just want to be sure that it works for the kid's phone (ver. 20h) and that it's safe (in terms of malware). A little clarification on the bootloader/root thing would help too: I have to unlock the bootloader first, then root? or is it the other way around? or are they done at the same time?
OK there's two ways to look at root, it is either done at the same time as flashing a new ROM(because the ROM's come with root access) or you can root it with the Chinese program on stock ROM. If you want a custom ROM it's doable but a total pain, I still haven't done it to mine because it requires a data plan and I don't have one. Its kinda like this, downgrade the os with a kmz meant for a p760, have weird mirrored issues with bootloader and os and touches, flash radio fix , wait 30 min to an hour with data and WiFi connected, pray you received an unlock token and reboot to unlocking screen. That's the process in a nutshell, here's an actual tutorial: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2584997
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire HD running CM10.1 Tablet UI using xda-developers app
stunts513 said:
OK there's two ways to look at root, it is either done at the same time as flashing a new ROM(because the ROM's come with root access) or you can root it with the Chinese program on stock ROM. If you want a custom ROM it's doable but a total pain, I still haven't done it to mine because it requires a data plan and I don't have one. Its kinda like this, downgrade the os with a kmz meant for a p760, have weird mirrored issues with bootloader and os and touches, flash radio fix , wait 30 min to an hour with data and WiFi connected, pray you received an unlock token and reboot to unlocking screen. That's the process in a nutshell, here's an actual tutorial: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2584997
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire HD running CM10.1 Tablet UI using xda-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK...forget the custom ROM...he's just a kid that wants more stupid games and videos on his phone...all he needs is more space. So what you're saying is to use the "Chinese program" to root it. OK...I will find the "Chinese program", but I'll ask first: does it work on ALL versions (particularly v. 20h).
Thanks for taking your time...it's appreciated.
It should work on that version, it did on mine and I have the same version, here's a link to it: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2553547
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire HD running CM10.1 Tablet UI using xda-developers app
stunts513 said:
It should work on that version, it did on mine and I have the same version, here's a link to it: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2553547
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire HD running CM10.1 Tablet UI using xda-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
K...but isn't that the VRoot prog with all the suspicion surrounding it? Some of the threads I have read about this prog are actually closed by the moderators "until further notice" or until it's fully investigated...do we have an "all clear" on this?
CaptNasty said:
K...but isn't that the VRoot prog with all the suspicion surrounding it? Some of the threads I have read about this prog are actually closed by the moderators "until further notice" or until it's fully investigated...do we have an "all clear" on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no issue with that program. People don't read directions 99% of the time, can't get it to work so they report it as being faulty. I used the same app to root my P769V20H. Only difference now is there is actually an English version, so I've heard.
You may have to enable init.d support on the stock ROM before using something like Link2SD. I currently am not having any storage issues, 32 GB sdcard, so I cannot say if Link2SD will work or not. I did notice that there was NOT an init.d folder in my system image, which is required of Link2SD in order to work correctly. You may want to look in to this thread for enabling init.d support.
I'd also advise downloading and installing the bootstrap recovery for L9 devices with a locked bootloader. It's called L9_Recovery_Installer.1.5.0.apk. Search the L9 forums for a download link. After installing, boot in to CWM and perform a backup. This will give you something to restore to just in case something goes wonky in the future.
I ended up installing and using Cydia Impactor for root, installing the bootstrap recovery that was suggested, installing and using Universal Init.d, MiniTool Partition, and Link2SD. Seems to work fine, although I'm still having a hard time grasping why the extra space provided by the new Ext2 partition on the SDcard isn't displayed in System Settings/Storage/Internal Storage.
Thanks to all
CaptNasty said:
Seems to work fine, although I'm still having a hard time grasping why the extra space provided by the new Ext2 partition on the SDcard isn't displayed in System Settings/Storage/Internal Storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's because most stock ROMs aren't configured to search for extended partitions. You can view all partition infos with Link2SD.
I have the HTC Desire 816 (Virgin Mobile version).
I was wondering if there was a way to get a "stock" bare version of android for it. When you get this phone it comes preloaded with a lot of junk!!! It comes with some kidsafe software a whole bunch of Virgin mobile junk and all this amazon/twiter/facebook junk.
I've rooted the phone and tried uninstalling it, but it just breaks the phone.
I've tried CM for this phone and it works great but it may not be a daily driver.
I'm curious if anybody knew of ways to effectively remove this software without affecting the operating system and/or there was a minimized version of android for this phone.
steppinthrax said:
I have the HTC Desire 816 (Virgin Mobile version).
I was wondering if there was a way to get a "stock" bare version of android for it. When you get this phone it comes preloaded with a lot of junk!!! It comes with some kidsafe software a whole bunch of Virgin mobile junk and all this amazon/twiter/facebook junk.
I've rooted the phone and tried uninstalling it, but it just breaks the phone.
I've tried CM for this phone and it works great but it may not be a daily driver.
I'm curious if anybody knew of ways to effectively remove this software without affecting the operating system and/or there was a minimized version of android for this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to say, I believe the only way to use this phone as stock would be CM. As you obviously know, it isn't 100% functional or even close.
I believe you posted this in the wrong forum also.
Tommydorns said:
Sorry to say, I believe the only way to use this phone as stock would be CM. As you obviously know, it isn't 100% functional or even close.
I believe you posted this in the wrong forum also.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems like there has to be a way. I remember I was rooting my wife's LG volt. In her volt the rooting process was very complex but involved downloading a LG firmware installer then downloading a LG ROM from somewhere and I flashed it to a basic (bare bones) version of android. Everything worked and it was rooted.
I guess my understanding is false, but could you get a "baseline" android OS with no drivers nothing, install it and extract the drivers from a full version. Place these drivers in your custom ROM and install it on the phone?
In M8 section there is an app called Rom Cleaner maybe its compatible with desire 816. Or use Titanium backup to remove bloatware.
The insert coin rom allows you to remove a lot of apps prior to flashing. After flashing I had 2 gig's of space free.
Sent from my 710C using XDA Free mobile app
I had the same problem because I love stock. I tried almost all the rooted apps (titanium, root uninstaller, rom toolbox) but couldn't seem to delete the system apps. But I found a way to do so.
There's a recovery application called "Aroma file manager" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646108
Flash this in recovery and delete all the system apks you want to. Make sure to mount system first before flashing
Cheers.
Parth_14 said:
I had the same problem because I love stock. I tried almost all the rooted apps (titanium, root uninstaller, rom toolbox) but couldn't seem to delete the system apps. But I found a way to do so.
There's a recovery application called "Aroma file manager" - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646108
Flash this in recovery and delete all the system apks you want to. Make sure to mount system first before flashing
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You couldn't delete the system applications because of the HTC's daft decision to add write protection to the /system partition which (in our case) can only be bypassed by paying 25$ for a Sunshine S-OFF exploit. Aroma file manager is also an option but managing the system from the system itself is way more comfy
Tommydorns said:
Sorry to say, I believe the only way to use this phone as stock would be CM. As you obviously know, it isn't 100% functional or even close.
I believe you posted this in the wrong forum also.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you please expand on this? I am intensively considering CM12 as my main ROM and I'd love to hear what kind of problems have you experienced with it.
CrashBandicootX said:
You couldn't delete the system applications because of the HTC's daft decision to add write protection to the /system partition which (in our case) can only be bypassed by paying 25$ for a Sunshine S-OFF exploit. Aroma file manager is also an option but managing the system from the system itself is way more comfy
Could you please expand on this? I am intensively considering CM12 as my main ROM and I'd love to hear what kind of problems have you experienced with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I apologize, I couldn't honestly tell you because it has been a long time ago since I tried CM12. It was different things with each release. I would check the thread thoroughly and ask to see what bugs are present in the latest release. I remember little things like the battery not reading correctly or data not working. I'm the type of person that needs something that is 100% functional. Esp. for my job. That's the closest you're going to get for a stock Android (aosp) rom though. I don't even use the HTC Desire 816 anymore. I ended up giving it to my daughter and I ended up getting the One M9. Good Luck.
Tommydorns said:
I apologize, I couldn't honestly tell you because it has been a long time ago since I tried CM12. It was different things with each release. I would check the thread thoroughly and ask to see what bugs are present in the latest release. I remember little things like the battery not reading correctly or data not working. I'm the type of person that needs something that is 100% functional. Esp. for my job. That's the closest you're going to get for a stock Android (aosp) rom though. I don't even use the HTC Desire 816 anymore. I ended up giving it to my daughter and I ended up getting the One M9. Good Luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm the type of person that needs something that is 100% functional.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand, me too - last time I used CM12 everything seemed to work pretty well but I reverted back because of the lack of slow-motion feature (Really a minor thing but I love it).
It's free after all so I'll just wait around until (and if) things get ironed out. Sense isn't half bad at all, I just prefer stock Android.