For those new to the world of rooting or just not sure what to do next, please add to this thread what you think are "must haves" or "must do" after rooting the nook tablet. I am sure there are awesome apps and tricks etc out there and nobody knows everything so please post what you feel is something one shouldbdo or get or install after rooting.
I think the Button Savior app is a nice one to have. It lets you set up transparent "buttons" on the side of your screen enabling you to go back, or to your chose home screen, without hitting the "n" home button. Having this app enables you to use said "n" home button to take you only back to the original, stock Nook home screen.
Just my two cents....
npw1138 said:
I think the Button Savior app is a nice one to have. It lets you set up transparent "buttons" on the side of your screen enabling you to go back, or to your chose home screen, without hitting the "n" home button. Having this app enables you to use said "n" home button to take you only back to the original, stock Nook home screen.
Just my two cents....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I agree that is a good one. Another is AnyCut. Anycut let's you place shortcuts to virtually anywhere including settings menus that are normally hidden or hard to find otherwise.
Titanium Backup and AdAway are a couple of my favorite root applications.
AdFree, TitaniumBackup, Root Explorer, ButtonSavior, Terminal Emulator.... Those a just a couple that I would consider necessities.
Great idea for a thread. This was my first time rooting. I agree with all of the above and there are a couple I want to check out as I hadn't heard of them. Other than that I would say MyBookDroid as it lets you not only keep track of what books you own, but have read, want to read, want to buy, or are in the middle of reading etc. I have gotten OverDrive for the first time for reading library books and am enjoying that. I would like to locate an 'office suite' for some of my take a long projects. Other wise I think that is all I'm aware of so far but will be watching this thread for more suggestions.
Use bettercut instead of any cut it will give you access to more options and shortcuts that even anycut cant get you
ianc125 said:
Use bettercut instead of any cut it will give you access to more options and shortcuts that even anycut cant get you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 for bettercut! There are things in there I've never seen so if you recommend using it for anything specific, let me know.
Screen Filter. Great app, I love it. It will allow you to lower the screen brightness below the default-allowable levels.
Most have been mentioned.
Right after you Root:
Definitely: Root Explorer and ES File Explorer. I use one or the other just about every day. Button Savior is a must.
Screenshot (app from kastor soft). Helps greatly when seeking help with OS/app issues to include a screencap if possible.
Use Anycut (or Bettercut) to make yourself a bunch of oft-needed shortcuts, like 'Home' (for the stock launcher), Appmenu, Debug Mode, Accessibility, etc. Put the shortcuts in a folder in GoLauncher for less clutter and convenient access.
If you think that you later may do some more in depth mucking around, Get SQLite Editor.
Cloud yourself up: Get Dropbox, Sugarsync, Box.net. and 4Shared. Together it's something like 20GB of cloud storage you can share directly with your NT. Very convenient to send yourself .apk, document, and media files via the cloud vs. USB.
Once you're feeling fairly confident:
1. Replace your stock keyboard with an alternative like Swiftkey Tablet X, hacker keyboard or whatever else is compatible. Read this thread, follow all the tutorial steps. This is a very forgiving hack, and you likely can't boot-loop your device even if something goes 'wrong'. Still, know what you're doing.
2. If you're using GoLauncher and having problems with widgets not loading after a reboot, follow the instructions in this thread to fix it. As above, read up and know what you're doing first.
3. Unless a more current Root method includes these: replace some system apps with stock Gingerbread versions. IE: email, keyboard, gallery 3D. Read through and understand the methods/files needed in this thread first.
Once you *really* know WTF you're doing:
Edit your build.prop file to spoof another device to add extra things to the Market. Build.prop can be safely changed in place (many other system files can't and can boot-loop your NT if you mess with them).
I've taken to keeping several build.prop files on hand- the stock, one to emulate a Nexus S, and one to emulate a Droid 3. I rename/switch them out and reset the Market, depending on what I'm trying to install directly from the Market. (For example, many Gameloft games show up when spoofing the Nexus S.)
Read up and know what you're doing before attempting. It's not a hard 'hack' but understand that applied incorrectly this could boot-loop your NT. When editing your build.prop file, ever point, every space, every character counts, so tripple-check your mods before committing and rebooting your NT. Backup and keep .bak copies of your working 'spoofs' and switch them if/when needed.
zaptoons said:
Screenshot (app from kastor soft). Helps greatly when seeking help with OS/app issues to include a screencap if possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unnecessary; you can take screenshots by hitting N + Volume Down.
Edit: Sorry if that sounded dickish, it's kind of late and I was distracted by The League.
As I use my NT mainly for entertainment while at work, the FIRST thing I researched how to edit my build.prop to spoof a Nexus S. Opened up a whole WORLD of compatible games!
Also, I got Mx Player, as an alternative to the stock video player. Mx is compatible with all of your major video codecs, and for the most part they play flawlessly. Occasionally, I find a vid that doesn't work with it, but that is largely due to the way the video was compressed.
Next thing I'm researching---Vuze ;-)
Sent from my rooted Nook Tablet using Tapatalk 8)
I recommend Opera Mobile for internet. It has great copy and paste function.
Swype keyboard is a must for me.
Taptu is an awesome way to consume information on your favorite topics.
Smart Rotate allows you to choose which apps rotate and which ones don't.
Quick Pic for a super fast gallery replacement that doesn't mess up wallpaper settings. (select the floppy icon to set the wallpaper)
any.do for an awesome to do app that is a joy to use.
Tapatalk of course.
Also, long press on the home button in button savior to access six previous apps.
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
SG Pillar said:
Unnecessary; you can take screenshots by hitting N + Volume Down.
Edit: Sorry if that sounded dickish, it's kind of late and I was distracted by The League.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely forgot about that! Not dickish at all, thanks.
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
deralaand said:
Also, long press on the home button in button savior to access six previous apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome! Never knew this! Very informative thread.
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
deralaand said:
...
Also, long press on the home button in button savior to access six previous apps.
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, great eye! I will be using this quite a bit.
Sent from my rooted BNTV250 using Tapatalk
The ones I couldn't do without are:
1) Go Launcher EX
2) Homecatcher - now the nook button takes me to my GoLauncher home screen and bypasses the stock nook screen altogether. It also eliminated my need for button savior. Not bashing the app, just didn't need it anymore since I wasn't using it for anything except getting back to my GL home screen anyway. I use the right to left swipe or even one press of the nook button in most every program to go back if I need to.
3) MX Video Player - like people are saying, plays anything and does it better than stock video player
4) ComicRack - suggested by people here on the boards, and again, better than the stock program for reading comics (more file types supported, better resolution, better functionality)
If you have access to a rooted phone and the app 'root explorer', you can capture many apps that would be 'incompatible' on the market.
This is how I originally got the Facebook and Twitter app working.
If you attempt this, you must be very careful using root explorer. It could allow you destroy your device.
Here are the steps I used.
1. Make sure the app you want, is loaded on the rooted Android device. (other than Nook)
2. Use root explorer on that Android device.
3. Navigate to data/app and search for the apk of the app that you want.
4. Long press on that apk and choose send.
5. I have dropbox installed, so I send apps to that so I can easily retrieve them whenever I want. You should be able to use gmail to mail them to your self on the Nook.
6. On the Nook, download the apk using whatever method you chose.
7. Install the file. Make sure to choose 'Package Installer'.
8 Enjoy!
Groove Ip
Im trying to get mine to make free VOIP calls. I have tried several different programs. With Groove Ip from Google Ive gotten it where I can hear the call over my nt but cannot seem to get the app to recognize the mic.
Any ideas how I can do this?
npw1138 said:
I think the Button Savior app is a nice one to have. It lets you set up transparent "buttons" on the side of your screen enabling you to go back, or to your chose home screen, without hitting the "n" home button. Having this app enables you to use said "n" home button to take you only back to the original, stock Nook home screen.
Just my two cents....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does the "recent apps" button (the four squares icon) work for anyone? If so, how did you configure to get it going? For me it does nothing.
Note, I have granted BS superuser permissions, so it's not that.
Edit: now I find "Also, long press on the home button in button savior to access six previous apps." Excellent; solves the problem, but what is the 4-squares icon if not that?
Related
My wife recently got a Vibrant, and she hates the bottom 4 required buttons on her home screens (Phone/Contacts/Messaging/Apps). She does not text, and wants to get rid of the messaging button. Is rooting the phone and installing a custom theme the only way to do this?
Also, what is the "lag fix" supposed to fix? She hasn't complained much about anything, and I haven't messed with her phone enough to see any serious problems with it.
EDIT: Also, what does having a "hardware locked" phone mean, what does it prevent you from doing, and how can I figure out if my wife has a hardware locked phone?
Rattor said:
My wife recently got a Vibrant, and she hates the bottom 4 required buttons on her home screens (Phone/Contacts/Messaging/Apps). She does not text, and wants to get rid of the messaging button. Is rooting the phone and installing a custom theme the only way to do this?
Also, what is the "lag fix" supposed to fix? She hasn't complained much about anything, and I haven't messed with her phone enough to see any serious problems with it.
EDIT: Also, what does having a "hardware locked" phone mean, what does it prevent you from doing, and how can I figure out if my wife has a hardware locked phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First off, I think if this is your wifes phone and you and she are unfamilar to modding its best to do as little as possible to get what you need. That said, if she hasn't complained about lag, don't worry about it. If you are interested, then lag is created because samsung uses a proprietary file system rfs which is a little slow. Lag fixes try to remedy this by either adding an ext2/3 partition, or totally replacing the file system with ext4. This last is for advanced users and I would not recommend.
Hardare locked refers to some devices that are unable to get to recovery or download mode by using the volume buttons and power button. There are threads to explain how to do it. Use them to see if your wifes is one.
As for the big ticket of your thread customizing your home screen, there are numerous launchers on the market. I like launcher pro, and adw launcher. Im pretty sure you dont even need to root to use them, there are free versions in the market. Good luck.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
wildklymr said:
First off, I think if this is your wifes phone and you and she are unfamilar to modding its best to do as little as possible to get what you need. That said, if she hasn't complained about lag, don't worry about it. If you are interested, then lag is created because samsung uses a proprietary file system rfs which is a little slow. Lag fixes try to remedy this by either adding an ext2/3 partition, or totally replacing the file system with ext4. This last is for advanced users and I would not recommend.
Hardare locked refers to some devices that are unable to get to recovery or download mode by using the volume buttons and power button. There are threads to explain how to do it. Use them to see if your wifes is one.
As for the big ticket of your thread customizing your home screen there are numerous launchers on the market. I like launcher pro, and adw launcher. Im pretty sure you dont even need to root to use them, there are free versions in the market. Good luck.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your quick reply.
I am not new to modding. I have pretty seriously modded my Evo 4G (custom kernels, deodexed ROM, customized themes, etc...). It's just I am unfamiliar with the Vibrant and its root process, and I don't want to do anything to it until I know the ins and outs of messing around with it.
If I can mod her home screen without rooting, then that's probably as far as I'll go. However, I've told her to look over the themes here to see if she finds one she likes, and I'm fairly certain I need to root to install a custom theme if she decides there's one she likes.
Rattor said:
Thanks for your quick reply.
I am not new to modding. I have pretty seriously modded my Evo 4G (custom kernels, deodexed ROM, customized themes, etc...). It's just I am unfamiliar with the Vibrant and its root process, and I don't want to do anything to it until I know the ins and outs of messing around with it.
If I can mod her home screen without rooting, then that's probably as far as I'll go. However, I've told her to look over the themes here to see if she finds one she likes, and I'm fairly certain I need to root to install a custom theme if she decides there's one she likes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok then, most theming i've seen on the vibrant is for the status bar, and not the bottom. Most roms end up supplementing touchwiz launcher with something like launcher2 or adw launcher. You might want to take a look at eugene373's frankentwiz. Hes modified touchwiz so you can edit the bottom dock and app drawer. Or if you dont want to go that far he posted the default launcher in the dev section that you Adb push to system/app its literally the default launcher from the g1 days. Its what I use.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Just use LauncerPro or ADW.
I got it for my girls Mytouch Slide. She doesn't need root. I doubt your wife needs the lagfix... the phone is fine just how it is for normal use.
HG! said:
Just use LauncerPro or ADW.
I got it for my girls Mytouch Slide. She doesn't need root. I doubt your wife needs the lagfix... the phone is fine just how it is for normal use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Considering the most she uses it for is to play Sims and other games (stealing my phone when she wants to play Angry Birds), and for surfing the web, I think she'll be fine without root, just using a new launcher. She just really didn't like the fact that 1/4th of her bottom dock was taken up with a useless icon.
Rattor said:
Considering the most she uses it for is to play Sims and other games (stealing my phone when she wants to play Angry Birds), and for surfing the web, I think she'll be fine without root, just using a new launcher. She just really didn't like the fact that 1/4th of her bottom dock was taken up with a useless icon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need a new launcher to replace the sms icon at the bottom of the dock. Open the app drawer-> menu-> view type-> customizable grid-> menu-> edit ...
Then you can drag any other icon on the dock to replace the sms icon. Press the back button to confirm, then you can switch back to alphabetical grid.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
::egg on face:: I also learn something new every day.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Also, if you look around this forum you can find the Angry Birds apk and install it on your wifes vibrant.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
renster721 said:
You don't need a new launcher to replace the sms icon at the bottom of the dock. Open the app drawer-> menu-> view type-> customizable grid-> menu-> edit ...
Then you can drag any other icon on the dock to replace the sms icon. Press the back button to confirm, then you can switch back to alphabetical grid.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that tip. Although I think I will be getting her ADW Launcher anyways since it's much more customizable, and not as overloaded as TouchWiz. Plus I found a theme for ADW I think my wife will love.
Just as a follow on, is it normal for you to have to hit the soft buttons (menu, home, back, search) multiple times to get them to actually register? I've noticed that if they are not lit up, I have to hit them once or twice to get them to light up, and then again to do the action I was trying to do.
Rattor said:
Thanks for that tip. Although I think I will be getting her ADW Launcher anyways since it's much more customizable, and not as overloaded as TouchWiz. Plus I found a theme for ADW I think my wife will love.
Just as a follow on, is it normal for you to have to hit the soft buttons (menu, home, back, search) multiple times to get them to actually register? I've noticed that if they are not lit up, I have to hit them once or twice to get them to light up, and then again to do the action I was trying to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I first got my vibrant I did, but I think it's because the touch sensors are very specific. As in, you have to hit the home button dead on for it to register. Once I got used to the button locations its not been a problem.
Btw, if you touch anywhere on the screen the buttons will light up ... Helpful when its really dark.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
all you have to do is....
1.go into app drawer
2.press menu and select view type
3.then select customizable grid
4. then go into your app drawer again and select edit
5.then select and hold an app and drag it in dock where the msg app is
6.and that's it
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
renster721 said:
When I first got my vibrant I did, but I think it's because the touch sensors are very specific. As in, you have to hit the home button dead on for it to register. Once I got used to the button locations its not been a problem.
Btw, if you touch anywhere on the screen the buttons will light up ... Helpful when its really dark.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
completely agree with this. You've kinda be dead on or cover the majority of the button. Adw is a great choice. It's an awesome and absurdly customizable home alternative. Plus it's free
Thanks for everyone's help. I ended up going with ADW and the iDroid theme (my wife adores the little android droid mascot). Very easy to setup and looks very nice.
Since the only keys are the N and the volume on the Tablet....is there any way to access the options in the apps that are ran to change the settings? I am getting a Tablet next week (cannot fraking wait!) and just realized this. Has this been a problem for anyone else?
It's no problem, there are soft keys at the bottom of the screen which come up contextually so you can go back or access the menus.
Alternatively you can use button saviour and have the buttons all the time. You'll be happy with the tablet
flamingsamurai said:
It's no problem, there are soft keys at the bottom of the screen which come up contextually so you can go back or access the menus.
Alternatively you can use button saviour and have the buttons all the time. You'll be happy with the tablet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I second this
Sent from my Nook Tablet using Tapatalk
flamingsamurai said:
It's no problem, there are soft keys at the bottom of the screen which come up contextually so you can go back or access the menus.
Alternatively you can use button saviour and have the buttons all the time. You'll be happy with the tablet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found that Button Savior is not necessary. The Back and Menu buttons come up in the status bar when they're available.
I use Homecatcher to access Go Launcher EX and installed Nook Color App Manager to install frequently used apps on the stock Home screen.
I've been VERY HAPPY with my Nook Tablet.
reverenddak said:
I found that Button Savior is not necessary. The Back and Menu buttons come up in the status bar when they're available.
I use Homecatcher to access Go Launcher EX and installed Nook Color App Manager to install frequently used apps on the stock Home screen.
I've been VERY HAPPY with my Nook Tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Button saviour is good for when your using full screen apps and want to access the menu. Like watching a video on MX player or reading in certain apps. Otherwise you wouldn't be able to.
I use Homecatcher to access Go Launcher EX and installed Nook Color App Manager to install frequently used apps on the stock Home screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can App Manger be installed on a non-rooted device? I would like to use that app but I haven't been able to find the apk for download. Everyplace wants me to get it from the android marketplace. If it only works on rooted devices, I'll quit looking for a standalone apk to download since I'm really nervous about voiding my warranty on my new toy by rooting.
Rick
Rick-S said:
Can App Manger be installed on a non-rooted device? I would like to use that app but I haven't been able to find the apk for download. Everyplace wants me to get it from the android marketplace. If it only works on rooted devices, I'll quit looking for a standalone apk to download since I'm really nervous about voiding my warranty on my new toy by rooting.
Rick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root isn't needed, and someone linked to their copy of the apk in this post.
Thank you very much. I've been looking for that for a couple days.
I just rooted my nook tablet and removed a bunch of bloat. I had to do a lot of it manually because I am on a mac. The root method works great, but it is not quite as full featured as the windows version.
I am curious, is there a way to get rid of the little menu that pops up when I push the "n" button? The one that says "home, library, shop, search, apps, web, settings". It's driving me crazy. Most of those apps aren't installed anymore.
My ideal is for this to be as close to a honeycomb tablet as possible.
Thank you,
Lance
LanceUlmer said:
I just rooted my nook tablet and removed a bunch of bloat. I had to do a lot of it manually because I am on a mac. The root method works great, but it is not quite as full featured as the windows version.
I am curious, is there a way to get rid of the little menu that pops up when I push the "n" button? The one that says "home, library, shop, search, apps, web, settings". It's driving me crazy. Most of those apps aren't installed anymore.
My ideal is for this to be as close to a honeycomb tablet as possible.
Thank you,
Lance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Our closest way is to use HomeCatcher to use it to go to our default launcher. I don't believe we've found a way to remove that menu all together.
I was afraid of that. I can live with it though. Thank you!
EDIT: If this is helpful at all, the honeycomb launcher actually captures the "n" button and treats it like a back button. No other apps do this so far.
LanceUlmer said:
I was afraid of that. I can live with it though. Thank you!
EDIT: If this is helpful at all, the honeycomb launcher actually captures the "n" button and treats it like a back button. No other apps do this so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not just Honeycomb Launcher ... I use ADW EX and I have that too. I see it in a lot of apps (not quite all, but more than don't). Also, it's been said before, but swiping right to left on the notification bar will function as Back.
LanceUlmer said:
I was afraid of that. I can live with it though. Thank you!
EDIT: If this is helpful at all, the honeycomb launcher actually captures the "n" button and treats it like a back button. No other apps do this so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't aware of that, thanks for the info!
it's in the framework, no way (right now) to remove.
Alright, this is only halfway done, but until I hear back from the One X devs and remove the menu software button, this will at least give you the menu softkey. I'm not going to bother making a flashable zip until I'm finished with everything, so, for now, follow these instructions.
Requirements:
1. SuperUser permissions (root)
2. Root Explorer (or a similar app with root permissions and the ability to edit any file as text)
Directions:
1. Navigate to /system/user/keylayout
2. Find the synaptics-rmi-touchscreen.kl AMD long-press on it. Select "Open in text editor."
3. Change the line for key 249 (APP_SWITCH) to MENU.
4. Use the on-screen menu key for the last time to select Save and Apply Changes.
5. Reboot.
Disclaimer: This means you will lose the ability to access the recent apps menu. I never really use it much, but I know some people do. So if you really need that, hold off until I update with a flashable zip (or the proper files to push if we don't have a recovery out already).
As soon as I figure out how to remove the on screen button, I'll give a real update and freshen up the OP. This will be my first public mod, so try to cut me a little slack, and keep in mind I'm not really a dev, I'm just trying to help out and expand my knowledge a little. Who knows, maybe I'll keep picking up on things and put out a theme, and maybe even a rom of my own eventually!
Thanks to the following who have helped me or whose tools I have used!
OMJ - For the base 1.13.651.1 deodexed rom. (I was using the kitchen wrong, because I am n00b)
sk806 - For pointing me to the right apktool and baksmali versions, as well as guiding me through the process when I effed up.
TeamWin for the awesome recovery (and, of course, toastcfh, who is a BOSS!)
The devs of Root Explorer, because that app does EVERYTHING! You can edit keyboard layouts on the fly and reboot to apply!
And whoever is going to help me write my first updater-script so this can be flashable when it's done!
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
RegnierD said:
Alright, this is only halfway done, but until I hear back from the One X devs and remove the menu software button, this will at least give you the menu softkey. I'm not going to bother making a flashable zip until I'm finished with everything, so, for now, follow these instructions.
Requirements:
1. SuperUser permissions (root)
2. Root Explorer (or a similar app with root permissions and the ability to edit any file as text)
Directions:
1. Navigate to /system/user/keylayout
2. Find the synaptics-rmi-touchscreen.kl AMD long-press on it. Select "Open in text editor."
3. Change the line for key 249 (APP_VIEW) to MENU.
4. Use the on-screen menu key for the last time to select Save and Apply Changes.
5. Reboot.
As soon as I figure out how to remove the on screen button, I'll update this.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!! How do we get to recent apps now though?
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
alainater said:
Thanks!! How do we get to recent apps now though?
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Until I figure out the environment to properly decompile the jars and apks, there is no way to do that. Probably should have mentioned that. Haha. Until I can crack open the android.policy.jar, you'll have to use the app icon from the drawer/homescreen.
If you want to revert, delete the modded one and remove .bak from the original that RE backed up for you.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
RegnierD said:
Until I figure out the environment to properly decompile the jars and apks, there is no way to do that. Probably should have mentioned that. Haha. Until I can crack open the android.policy.jar, you'll have to use the app icon from the drawer/homescreen.
If you want to revert, delete the modded one and remove .bak from the original that RE backed up for you.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha ok sounds good
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Hope this helps you in your journey
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1511730
regaw_leinad said:
Hope this helps you in your journey
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1511730
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'VE BEEN LOOKING ALL OVER FOR THAT! As soon as I hear back from a dev regarding the softkey and long pressing, I'll get a zip up here! This is my first public mod, so bear with me.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
RegnierD said:
Alright, this is only halfway done, but until I hear back from the One X devs and remove the menu software button, this will at least give you the menu softkey. I'm not going to bother making a flashable zip until I'm finished with everything, so, for now, follow these instructions.
Requirements:
1. SuperUser permissions (root)
2. Root Explorer (or a similar app with root permissions and the ability to edit any file as text)
Directions:
1. Navigate to /system/user/keylayout
2. Find the synaptics-rmi-touchscreen.kl AMD long-press on it. Select "Open in text editor."
3. Change the line for key 249 (APP_VIEW) to MENU.
4. Use the on-screen menu key for the last time to select Save and Apply Changes.
5. Reboot.
As soon as I figure out how to remove the on screen button, I'll give a real update and freshen up the OP.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mine doesnt say APP_VIEW (says APP_SWITCH)
edit: still worked
jcwxguy said:
mine doesnt say APP_VIEW
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mine did
I'll be checking back in on this progress. The lack of a menu button, and the resulting 15% of screen wasted on a soft menu button, is by far the biggest problem with this phone. It really is pathetic to play a full screen game and have that silly soft menu button at the bottom.
I would prefer the multitask button to be a menu, and long-press home become multitask like on previous phones.
jcwxguy said:
mine doesnt say APP_VIEW (says APP_SWITCH)
edit: still worked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I fixed the OP.
jirafabo said:
I'll be checking back in on this progress. The lack of a menu button, and the resulting 15% of screen wasted on a soft menu button, is by far the biggest problem with this phone. It really is pathetic to play a full screen game and have that silly soft menu button at the bottom.
I would prefer the multitask button to be a menu, and long-press home become multitask like on previous phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once I've got it all together, I'll post several versions of the mod. I know, personally, I'm going to have mone set as such:
Back (Leave long press empty)
Home (Menu)
Multitasking (Search)
On a somewhat off topic note, I'm happy to be getting more and more into Android. It's exciting. I've made it a personal goal to try and be really active in this community. I've learned a lot through reading, so it's time to apply some of it and pay things forward a little.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
RegnierD said:
I'm going to have mone set as such:
Back (Leave long press empty)
Home (Menu)
Multitasking (Search)
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like that idea
I've done some Android dev, so I may be able to put some effort into this. Personally, I'd like to see the keys like:
Back: short = Back, long = kill current app (like Cyanogen)
Home: short = Home, long = recent apps
Multitasking: short = Menu, long = voice search (like long press search on EVO 4G)
RegnierD said:
Thank you, I fixed the OP.
Once I've got it all together, I'll post several versions of the mod. I know, personally, I'm going to have mone set as such:
Back (Leave long press empty)
Home (Menu)
Multitasking (Search)
On a somewhat off topic note, I'm happy to be getting more and more into Android. It's exciting. I've made it a personal goal to try and be really active in this community. I've learned a lot through reading, so it's time to apply some of it and pay things forward a little.
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want that same setup. This thread is added to my favorites.
Sent from my EVO LTE using Tapatalk 2
I'm not sure how easy the long press of back to kill will be to implement. It probably depends on whether or not Sense 4/ICS supports killing the foreground app natively. If not, it might have to be added, at which point, I'll go bug IHTFP69 and ask how he implemented it into his Zeus builds.
I'm under the impression that the software keys are just a flag in SystemUI, but not entirely sure if I remember having read that correctly.
I'm out with the guys tossing a few back in celebration, but when I get home, it's time to boot up my Mint partition!
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
wvufan said:
I've done some Android dev, so I may be able to put some effort into this. Personally, I'd like to see the keys like:
Back: short = Back, long = kill current app (like Cyanogen)
Home: short = Home, long = recent apps
Multitasking: short = Menu, long = voice search (like long press search on EVO 4G)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thoughts exactly. I think this setup flows best with the history of EVO button bindings.
I could live without the long-press kill, though (when I enabled it I found myself nuking apps on accident (especially Netflix) more often than intentionally. Additionally, I haven't had a single hangup on the LTE so far).
The holy grail, of course, would be an app/settings option allowing for full configurability of the buttons from within the OS. Perhaps CyanogenMod will feature it. (EDIT: It does)
To be honest, I don't think long press back to kill would be that helpful. I'll still make it, just for the few who really want it, but really, just hit home and then bring up multitasking. If you want the free RAM so badly, you'll be better off in an interface where you can kill multiple apps by swiping them away. Leaving three or four in the background is not going to affect your battery anyway (unless it's the official Facebook app, lol).
Edit: ^Oh wow, I hadn't even though of extending the customizations that far. Maybe I collectively we could figure out a way to include multiple functions into the LeeDroid Sense 4 tweak apps when they start coming out!
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
RegnierD said:
If you want the free RAM so badly, you'll be better off in an interface where you can kill multiple apps by swiping them away.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now we just need an interface where you can kill multiple apps by swiping them away. (I'm referencing the fact that the app switcher on the eVOLTe only really shows you one app at a time).
RegnierD said:
Alright, this is only halfway done, but until I hear back from the One X devs and remove the menu software button, this will at least give you the menu softkey. I'm not going to bother making a flashable zip until I'm finished with everything, so, for now, follow these instructions.
Requirements:
1. SuperUser permissions (root)
2. Root Explorer (or a similar app with root permissions and the ability to edit any file as text)
Directions:
1. Navigate to /system/user/keylayout
2. Find the synaptics-rmi-touchscreen.kl AMD long-press on it. Select "Open in text editor."
3. Change the line for key 249 (APP_SWITCH) to MENU.
4. Use the on-screen menu key for the last time to select Save and Apply Changes.
5. Reboot.
Disclaimer: This means you will lose the ability to access the recent apps menu. I never really use it much, but I know some people do. So if you really need that, hold off until I update with a flashable zip (or the proper files to push if we don't have a recovery out already).
As soon as I figure out how to remove the on screen button, I'll give a real update and freshen up the OP. This will be my first public mod, so try to cut me a little slack, and keep in mind I'm not really a dev, I'm just trying to help out and expand my knowledge a little. Who knows, maybe I'll keep picking up on things and put out a theme, and maybe even a rom of my own eventually!
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are u still working on the longpress home for recent? If so hit me up
Sent from my MZ609 using Tapatalk 2
jirafabo said:
I'll be checking back in on this progress. The lack of a menu button, and the resulting 15% of screen wasted on a soft menu button, is by far the biggest problem with this phone. It really is pathetic to play a full screen game and have that silly soft menu button at the bottom.
I would prefer the multitask button to be a menu, and long-press home become multitask like on previous phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This ^^^^^↑^^^^^↑↑↑↑↑^^^^^^
Couldn't agree more. And much thanks o OP.
sent from 2yr old Evo on ICS
wvufan said:
I've done some Android dev, so I may be able to put some effort into this. Personally, I'd like to see the keys like:
Back: short = Back, long = kill current app (like Cyanogen)
Home: short = Home, long = recent apps
Multitasking: short = Menu, long = voice search (like long press search on EVO 4G)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oops. Actually THIS ^^^^^^↑^^^^^^↑^^^^^^
sent from 2yr old Evo on ICS
So recently I had to send in my laptop for repair and do not have a replace ment for college that starts back up in a few days. I figured this would be the ultamite test for the note 2 to use it as my personal computer for a week. Does anyone have any ideas to make it more desktop friendly? Ex pop up browsers. ( I already have the hardware to put it on a monitor and add a mouse and keyboard)
Nebula rom, every app is floatable, and dockable. Some have trouble installing it, but it would work nicely as a alternative desktop.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
Trebe94 said:
So recently I had to send in my laptop for repair and do not have a replace ment for college that starts back up in a few days. I figured this would be the ultamite test for the note 2 to use it as my personal computer for a week. Does anyone have any ideas to make it more desktop friendly? Ex pop up browsers. ( I already have the hardware to put it on a monitor and add a mouse and keyboard)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest, the whole pop-up think isnt as useful as one might think..the screen just isnt big enough for individual windows to be usable, at least to the extent of replacing both a desktop UI AND your phones UI.
A better alternative is to use a few tools that will allow you to switch between apps easily. This way you retain all the usability of whatever application youre using, while being able to flip through apps quickly.
I would recommend using "Swipe Home Button" (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.matthewma.swipehomebuttonfree)
I disable all the functions except for the simple "Swipe up" to get to the "Recent apps". This way anytime i want to switch, i just swipe up, and tap on the app i wanted. Its MUCH faster than pressing and holding the home button.
Also, SwipePad (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=mobi.conduction.swipepad.android)
This allows you to have a grid accessible anywhere, by swiping from any place of your choosing and getting to any app you want. Not just apps that are open.
Check out this guy Coldfustion on YouTube. He's got great videos explaining in detail how to use your Note 2 as a pc.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkgmqOrpKyc&feature=youtube_gdata_player
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nh2NSLgaII&feature=youtube_gdata_player