So frustrating.. - Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

So after a lot of convincing from some friends who said that Android was so good and so much more customizable than my iPhone 5, I jumped ship and got a Samsung Galaxy S4 (Aus) edition. After being very frustrated at how locked down the Aus Telstra version was, I eventually decided to go down the path of rooting. I settled on PA 3.99 RC2 and it worked fine for a while. After deciding to upgrade to Kit Kat, I tried a few different versions - firstly the PA 4.0 beta and then went on to others after running into problem after problem. Some of the issues included not being able to find my mobile provider - pretty important if you want to use the phone as a phone. Other issues have included things like not being able to access the ext SD card, not being able to access Google Play, and now after updating to a new ROM [ROM][KOT49H]AOSP 4.4.2 from source (Release Candidate 2), there is no auto restore of Google apps anymore. Now I'm faced with having to manually install 150 odd apps. There's also silly things that pis me off like no reboot button option and no battery percentage?! Since moving over to Android, all I've had is issue after issue and I'm ready to go back to IOS, where yes it's locked down but things like restoring to a good working backup were never an issue. Any help would be appreciated

mrtockley said:
So after a lot of convincing from some friends who said that Android was so good and so much more customizable than my iPhone 5, I jumped ship and got a Samsung Galaxy S4 (Aus) edition. After being very frustrated at how locked down the Aus Telstra version was, I eventually decided to go down the path of rooting. I settled on PA 3.99 RC2 and it worked fine for a while. After deciding to upgrade to Kit Kat, I tried a few different versions - firstly the PA 4.0 beta and then went on to others after running into problem after problem. Some of the issues included not being able to find my mobile provider - pretty important if you want to use the phone as a phone. Other issues have included things like not being able to access the ext SD card, not being able to access Google Play, and now after updating to a new ROM [ROM][KOT49H]AOSP 4.4.2 from source (Release Candidate 2), there is no auto restore of Google apps anymore. Now I'm faced with having to manually install 150 odd apps. There's also silly things that pis me off like no reboot button option and no battery percentage?! Since moving over to Android, all I've had is issue after issue and I'm ready to go back to IOS, where yes it's locked down but things like restoring to a good working backup were never an issue. Any help would be appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lesson 1) don't buy phones from carriers. They're bound to lock u down. (Singapore doesn't. )
Lesson 2) make a nandroid backup. (U didn't make a nandroid backup, and now you're whining about loads of problems.)
Lesson 3) use stable releases. Some releases may be nightly release and are not stable. Find a stable release and flash it.
Lesson 4) can't access play store? Flash GApps. Flash GApps before whining about not being able to go to play store.
Lesson 5) no reboot option? No battery percentage?! Damn, reflash or flash another rom. Did u read the Original Post for known bugs before flashing?
gotta go. No batt. (Illusion bug sucks.)
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.

Irwenzhao said:
Lesson 1) don't buy phones from carriers. They're bound to lock u down. (Singapore doesn't. )
Lesson 2) make a nandroid backup. (U didn't make a nandroid backup, and now you're whining about loads of problems.)
Lesson 3) use stable releases. Some releases may be nightly release and are not stable. Find a stable release and flash it.
Lesson 4) can't access play store? Flash GApps. Flash GApps before whining about not being able to go to play store.
Lesson 5) no reboot option? No battery percentage?! Damn, reflash or flash another rom. Did u read the Original Post for known bugs before flashing?
gotta go. No batt. (Illusion bug sucks.)
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well thanks (sort of) for the reply, but I've done a few of those things and still running into dramas. I made a Nandroid back up before upgrading to Kit Kat, but I didn't think it would help me when upgrading to a new ROM / OS.
I had to go on a plan so I had to buy the phone from a carrier.
The release I'm running is supposed to be stable - it's RC2. I read up on it, but not having a reboot option as part of the software isn't what I'd call a bug - it's just retarded leaving it out. Same goes with battery percentage.
It's not as easy as simply flashing another ROM - as I said, every ROM I've tried (other than Paranoid Android running Jelly Bean) has had major problems, such as not being able to read my external SD card.
And now - after reading until my eyes are sore, I can't seem to find any option to auto restore all of my Google Store Apps (not Gapps) without manually doing each one. For all of this supposed customization, there are so many limitations to this OS..

mrtockley said:
Well thanks (sort of) for the reply, but I've done a few of those things and still running into dramas. I made a Nandroid back up before upgrading to Kit Kat, but I didn't think it would help me when upgrading to a new ROM / OS.
I had to go on a plan so I had to buy the phone from a carrier.
The release I'm running is supposed to be stable - it's RC2. I read up on it, but not having a reboot option as part of the software isn't what I'd call a bug - it's just retarded leaving it out. Same goes with battery percentage.
It's not as easy as simply flashing another ROM - as I said, every ROM I've tried (other than Paranoid Android running Jelly Bean) has had major problems, such as not being able to read my external SD card.
And now - after reading until my eyes are sore, I can't seem to find any option to auto restore all of my Google Store Apps (not Gapps) without manually doing each one. For all of this supposed customization, there are so many limitations to this OS..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If u don't like kitkat (bugs, etc.) Use nandroid backup to restore to original version. (Easy as ABC, my friend.) I'm on a plan, and I didn't buy it from my carrier. (Too much bloatware, worth it though) Release Candidate isn't stable. Download stable version and flash. (Who would leave reboot option out? Should be a bug or ur settings got messed up.) Check settings for battery percentage. I have no problems with sd-card... (BTW, I don't recommended kitkat roms now. Use jellybean or below.) IOS has more limitations. Limitations that largely differentiate Android from IOS.(I could make a list...)
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.

Hmm. Not sure that the limitations are as big as you might think..
If RC2 isn't stable, how else can I run Kit Kat? I've had this phone for 6 months and Samsung never released a single update which is the whole reason I rooted my phone. Everyone's answer seems to be that I'd the features aren't there, it's either put up with it or go back to an old OS. Where's the freedom and customisation in that?
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

mrtockley said:
Hmm. Not sure that the limitations are as big as you might think..
If RC2 isn't stable, how else can I run Kit Kat? I've had this phone for 6 months and Samsung never released a single update which is the whole reason I rooted my phone. Everyone's answer seems to be that I'd the features aren't there, it's either put up with it or go back to an old OS. Where's the freedom and customisation in that?
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try coding a ROM. it's harder than IOS in many ways. It has boatload of features that it has to optimize. It has widgets that developers have to make sure that they work properly. IOS is just something with tons of icons, and apps are easy to develop, mainly because most (if not all) iPhones are running on the same os (IOS 7) and it has only 1 physical button, the home button. Different Android versions run on different devices, and developers have to optimize one version for multiple devices. I'm amazed 4.4 kitkat roms are out for multiple devices so quickly. Devs here are working their heads out to develop a stable ROM, and here u are, whining about bugs. Time, my friend. Time is what our dear developers need.
P.S. if u compare Android 2 with IOS 7, Android 2 already wins in terms of customization. There are the widgets, launchers, root and stuff.
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky.
I do respond to questions (most) via PM.
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.
---------- Post added at 02:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:58 PM ----------
mrtockley said:
Hmm. Not sure that the limitations are as big as you might think..
If RC2 isn't stable, how else can I run Kit Kat? I've had this phone for 6 months and Samsung never released a single update which is the whole reason I rooted my phone. Everyone's answer seems to be that I'd the features aren't there, it's either put up with it or go back to an old OS. Where's the freedom and customisation in that?
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IOS vs Android
When u need to check the weather:
IOS: unlock phone, pull notification bar.
Android: unlock phone, look at home screen.
When u need extra space in your phone:
IOS: doesn't even have a sd-card slot.
Android: (at least most has sd-card slot.)
zero battery, powerbank out of power.
IOS: disassemble phone, replace battery, assemble phone.
Android: remove back cover, replace phone battery.
Support:
IOS: I'm so locked down I don't need support.
Android: XDA.
Sharing of content:
IOS: cloud, email.
Android: cloud, email, nfc (some phones), sd-card. (Damn, Samsung gave me extra 40+gb for dropbox.)
Size:
IOS: too long, my thumb is way too short.
Android: sizes are everywhere.
I could go on forever, but I'm too lazy
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky.
I do respond to questions (most) via PM.
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.

Also titanium backup is great for restoring apps.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk

Irwenzhao said:
Try coding a ROM. it's harder than IOS in many ways. It has boatload of features that it has to optimize. It has widgets that developers have to make sure that they work properly. IOS is just something with tons of icons, and apps are easy to develop, mainly because most (if not all) iPhones are running on the same os (IOS 7) and it has only 1 physical button, the home button. Different Android versions run on different devices, and developers have to optimize one version for multiple devices. I'm amazed 4.4 kitkat roms are out for multiple devices so quickly. Devs here are working their heads out to develop a stable ROM, and here u are, whining about bugs. Time, my friend. Time is what our dear developers need.
P.S. if u compare Android 2 with IOS 7, Android 2 already wins in terms of customization. There are the widgets, launchers, root and stuff.
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky.
I do respond to questions (most) via PM.
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.
---------- Post added at 02:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:58 PM ----------
IOS vs Android
When u need to check the weather:
IOS: unlock phone, pull notification bar.
Android: unlock phone, look at home screen.
When u need extra space in your phone:
IOS: doesn't even have a sd-card slot.
Android: (at least most has sd-card slot.)
zero battery, powerbank out of power.
IOS: disassemble phone, replace battery, assemble phone.
Android: remove back cover, replace phone battery.
Support:
IOS: I'm so locked down I don't need support.
Android: XDA.
Sharing of content:
IOS: cloud, email.
Android: cloud, email, nfc (some phones), sd-card. (Damn, Samsung gave me extra 40+gb for dropbox.)
Size:
IOS: too long, my thumb is way too short.
Android: sizes are everywhere.
I could go on forever, but I'm too lazy
Smack that thanks button If I helped!
Always make a nandroid backup before trying anything risky.
I do respond to questions (most) via PM.
Sent from my fabulous N7105 powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. Quote my post for replies ASAP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah of course there is a lot of differences between Android and IOS, and yes IOS is locked down. But, the fundamental difference is that IOS just works - period. I switched over to Android cos I was led to believe that there was freedom to do anything and everything, but it's just not the case. I thought I could just install a plain Google version of the OS onto my phone, no bull**** bloatware or stupid useless battery draining features, but you can't just do that. I want to run the latest OS on my phone that has new X,Y and Z features but I can't. I can only run "X version" of Kit Kat or Jelly Bean, and for some reason they are never stable and there's always things that don't work on each version, like the ability to read the SD card, or use the camera or wifi etc. Google's OS is open source so why is it so hard to get the latest version on your phone without all the crap? I'll tell you why - because Android phones have hundreds (if not thousands) of different hardware configurations, and even more stupidly, companies like Samsung, run multiple different hardware configurations (even for the same model of phone ie; SG4) worldwide for different markets. When you try and port Kit Kat for an SG4, there are so many different variables to consider to make it work across the board on the same platform, it becomes very difficult to make a stable release that works with all SG4's. With Apple, the hardware configurations are exactly the same, so it just works. I jailbroke my old iPhone and then when I didn't want to run it, I restored it and ALL of my apps and contacts just restore with no fuss or stress.
What I keep getting told is that basically, the only stable release custom ROM I should be running is an old OS (which I was running in the first place with Smasungs TW) or put up with bugs and random reboots etc. Not so cutting edge anymore I'm finding out..

mrtockley said:
Yeah of course there is a lot of differences between Android and IOS, and yes IOS is locked down. But, the fundamental difference is that IOS just works - period. I switched over to Android cos I was led to believe that there was freedom to do anything and everything, but it's just not the case. I thought I could just install a plain Google version of the OS onto my phone, no bull**** bloatware or stupid useless battery draining features, but you can't just do that. I want to run the latest OS on my phone that has new X,Y and Z features but I can't. I can only run "X version" of Kit Kat or Jelly Bean, and for some reason they are never stable and there's always things that don't work on each version, like the ability to read the SD card, or use the camera or wifi etc. Google's OS is open source so why is it so hard to get the latest version on your phone without all the crap? I'll tell you why - because Android phones have hundreds (if not thousands) of different hardware configurations, and even more stupidly, companies like Samsung, run multiple different hardware configurations (even for the same model of phone ie; SG4) worldwide for different markets. When you try and port Kit Kat for an SG4, there are so many different variables to consider to make it work across the board on the same platform, it becomes very difficult to make a stable release that works with all SG4's. With Apple, the hardware configurations are exactly the same, so it just works. I jailbroke my old iPhone and then when I didn't want to run it, I restored it and ALL of my apps and contacts just restore with no fuss or stress.
What I keep getting told is that basically, the only stable release custom ROM I should be running is an old OS (which I was running in the first place with Smasungs TW) or put up with bugs and random reboots etc. Not so cutting edge anymore I'm finding out..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said, there are loads of extra features that needs to be perfected, and that takes a long time. I can bet with u, if IOS ever becomes open-source, all custom ROMs will have bugs. Some features can't be run due to hardware and software limitations. For example, u can't use OIS on Note 2, which doesn't have that camera sensor. Same goes for IOS, u can't use touch ID on iPhone 4, can u? U mentioned sd-card, which IOS doesn't have. It also requires complicated code from OS and kernel. With apple, it have only one hardware configuration, which disables a slower/budget phones for people who wants a apple product but don't have the money for a iPhone 5s. Having different hardware configuration enables flexibility, cheaper phones and more customers. Jailbreaking isn't the same. In Android, u can access and EDIT system files. What can u do with jailbreaking? Almost nothing. If you're impatient, go IOS and stay simple, inflexible, and basically, a everyday phone user who's happy with not being able to customize your phone and is happy with the stock OS.
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.

Irwenzhao said:
As I said, there are loads of extra features that needs to be perfected, and that takes a long time. I can bet with u, if IOS ever becomes open-source, all custom ROMs will have bugs. Some features can't be run due to hardware and software limitations. For example, u can't use OIS on Note 2, which doesn't have that camera sensor. Same goes for IOS, u can't use touch ID on iPhone 4, can u? U mentioned sd-card, which IOS doesn't have. It also requires complicated code from OS and kernel. With apple, it have only one hardware configuration, which disables a slower/budget phones for people who wants a apple product but don't have the money for a iPhone 5s. Having different hardware configuration enables flexibility, cheaper phones and more customers. Jailbreaking isn't the same. In Android, u can access and EDIT system files. What can u do with jailbreaking? Almost nothing. If you're impatient, go IOS and stay simple, inflexible, and basically, a everyday phone user who's happy with not being able to customize your phone and is happy with the stock OS.
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think we're getting a little off track, comparing old phone's limitations etc. Of course you can't run every OS on older phones due to hardware / sensor limitations etc. So can I run just a plain vanilla version, like the Google Play edition version of Kit Kat on my SG 4 ?

mrtockley said:
I think we're getting a little off track, comparing old phone's limitations etc. Of course you can't run every OS on older phones due to hardware / sensor limitations etc. So can I run just a plain vanilla version, like the Google Play edition version of Kit Kat on my SG 4 ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. (Bugs are a part of everyday life for custom ROM users, so if u can't live with it, go to IOS and enjoy perfection.)
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.

Irwenzhao said:
Yep. (Bugs are a part of everyday life for custom ROM users, so if u can't live with it, go to IOS and enjoy perfection.)
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I can't run plain Kit Kat then?
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mrtockley said:
So I can't run plain Kit Kat then?
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless u have a Nexus 5 (or any device that Google released 4.4 to), no u can't have stock 4.4 (there's a video on Android Authority's YouTube channel explaining why Google updates take so long. Can't provide links cause I'm on data now )
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.

Irwenzhao said:
Unless u have a Nexus 5 (or any device that Google released 4.4 to), no u can't have stock 4.4 (there's a video on Android Authority's YouTube channel explaining why Google updates take so long. Can't provide links cause I'm on data now )
Smack that thanks button if I helped!
Note 2 LTE powered by Illusion ROM and Plasma Kernel.
Sent from dat small country called Singapore.
P.S. replies with quotes will be replied to faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bugger. Oh well..
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk

Related

In Need Of Advice For Starting Over

First, an explanation of my situation:
I bought a Galaxy Note at the beginning of the summer. All-in-all, I was pretty happy with it. It was a much improved experience over my Atrix, which was in poor condition by the time I switched over.
I wasn't able to root at first as I only had access to a Mac, and there were innumerable issues in doing so - Odin was PC only, WINE ports of it failed to recognize the phone, the Mac equivalent of Odin (I am spacing on its name right now) didn't work with the Note, etc.
When ICS was officially released, I tried to update to it via Kies. Kies on Mac is a ****storm. It's incredibly buggy, toolbars and menus don't display correctly, it has trouble recognizing the device, etc. I was unable to get it to make a backup, but I eventually managed to load the ROM onto it...
... and that's when the real problems started.
My battery life has turned to crap. Everything runs incredibly slow. Everything's super buggy. Apps force-close all the time. My MicroSD card ended up getting corrupted - half of my music disappeared, of what was left only 1/3rd actually worked. I just reformatted my MicroSD, backing everything important up, etc.
I've been dealing with this for around a month now, as whenever I come to the forum I have no idea where to even start to fix this. I'm up for wiping everything and starting over, and I do have access to a Windows XP machine now so that may be easier... but I don't even know where to go from there.
---------------------------------------------------​
That's why I'm here - I need advice. I need advice as to how to clean up the current mess my phone has turned into and start over. I need advice as to what ROM to try and how to go about loading it. I need advice as to whether to root and how to do so. I need advice as to whether to install a CWM, which one to use and how to go about doing so.
Here is what I am looking for, ordered from most important to least:
Battery life is important to me. I loved how long the battery lasted before my attempted upgrade to ICS... now it lasts maybe 1/3 of the time.
I want something that will work - I want stability. No more constant force-quits of every freaking app.
A smooth, fast UI would be preferable.
Feature packed. I like the thought of cutting edge features of newer (or custom) versions of Android being incorporated - but this is far less important to me than battery life and stability.
My preferred method of installation would be using my Mac - but as I said, Windows XP is a very easy option for me as well. I could also install a newer version of Windows if need be, but would prefer not to go through that...
Thanks in advance for any help, advice and recommendations! ^_^
Get Odin and root your phone...
Download and flash TWRP... http://teamw.in/project/twrp
download a ROM of your choice
boot into the recovery ..wipe--->>cache/dalvik cache/ wipe ROM/factory reset..>then go to the install and flash your ROM...
These are very rudimentary instructions I hope they helped a bit...good luck
Do you have an idea for what ROM you like or want? Couple of great ROMs..for stockish check out flappjaxxx's for jellybean check out manelscout4life..stable and fast
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda app-developers app
Techno is onto the correct answer, unless of course you are truly wanting the stock version back.
Kies and OTA updates are often flawed, and give the end user exactly the type of problems you are stating.
However, if you want a return to stock, the information can be found in the "note super everything thread" located as a sticky at the top of the general note section.
But I do agree with techno, that a root and flash of a quality custom rom is the way to go......g
Thanks a lot, both of you!
As to what ROM I want, honestly that's one of the reasons I have been procrastinating so much -- I have no idea whatsoever. There's such an overwhelming number of options out there, of basic flavors (ICS, JB, GB, CM7, etc.) and tens of derivatives of each one made by different people. I have no idea where to even start making such a decision.
I can tell you this much. On my Atrix, I started with the stock Motoblur-Froyo, flashed GingerBlur, disliked it's bugginess but dealt with it for almost a year, then flashed the CM7-based Neutrino. I wasn't very happy with how skimpy the ROM was but stuck with it until I got my Note. I was pretty satiated with the stock ROM, but decided to upgrade to ICS due to the promise of a better UI, increased functionality and especially a faster camera. While my experience with ICS was terrible, I could see myself enjoying a functional, non-buggy version...
Basically, I have no idea what ROM or even what base OS version I am looking for. That said, I do know the criteria that matter to me, as stated prior:
Battery Life
Stability
Smooth UI
Cutting-Edge Feature Packed
I can't really think of any features I am specifically looking for, other than under-the-radar tethering and top-notch camera speed & functionality .
As I have no attachment to any specific OS version, suppose that would mean that if battery life, stability and smoothness issues are equal amongst ROM variants, I would be looking for a Jellybean ROM - as it would be most packed with new features... right?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1664980
That is the best stockish ICS experience you can get and keeps all the functionality of your phone including the spen. He also offers a jellybean ROM but honestly to find the best JB rom for you just read through the threads read and REREAD THE OP of those ROMs..jellybean is fun and cool but not 101% stable yet..people still getting random reboots and some are losing there APN settings..so maybe just flashing ics and playing with those ROMs is best for you for now..FYI the above rom is smooth as silk and great battery life
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda app-developers app
Again , I agree with Techno, and the rom he posted is the one I'm using to type this.
Flappjaxxx is a fine developer, and he has packed this UCLF6 build with full functionality , and much more.
He is , and will continue to be my top pick for quality builds and performance ...g
This is all really wonderful advice - thanks again!
I guess I have a few last questions:
What is the best way to root at this point? If I recall, there are multiple ways to root via Odin... is there a specific one you would recommend for my current situation (read: current buggy ICS firmware)? A link would be very much appreciated, as the roadmap thread is a bit... overwhelming with all of the options.
Are there any MODs you recommend I install after I have my new flappjaxxx ROM in place? Will tethering work off the bat? Will all of the Gapps (Gmail, Navigation, etc.) be there for me to use? Will I need to install anything else, or is there any recommendations that you have?
Thanks again a ton - you've both been enormously helpful!
Also, I just noticed that the recovery you linked me to (http://teamw.in/project/twrp) has no option for the Galaxy Note...
EDIT: It turns out you linked me to the wrong page - to TWPR 1. Here's the link to TWRP 2.2, for anyone else who comes across this thread: http://teamw.in/project/twrp2
Just my 2 cents. After you get straightened out, you may want to take a look here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=29376779
Another stable rom with great battery life, and a super Dev a well. I have been running it since testing and find it to be the perfect rom and team for me.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using Tapatalk 2
Okay ....
Please verify your carrier ....model ...and current software version ....then we can point you to the correct bits and pieces of the super thread.
I just want to make sure we are all on the same page ....g
Edit :
I'm away for a few hours ...
But I'm sure a few other helpful folks will chime in with the links ...g
phnord said:
Thanks a lot, both of you!
As to what ROM I want, honestly that's one of the reasons I have been procrastinating so much -- I have no idea whatsoever. There's such an overwhelming number of options out there, of basic flavors (ICS, JB, GB, CM7, etc.) and tens of derivatives of each one made by different people. I have no idea where to even start making such a decision.
I can tell you this much. On my Atrix, I started with the stock Motoblur-Froyo, flashed GingerBlur, disliked it's bugginess but dealt with it for almost a year, then flashed the CM7-based Neutrino. I wasn't very happy with how skimpy the ROM was but stuck with it until I got my Note. I was pretty satiated with the stock ROM, but decided to upgrade to ICS due to the promise of a better UI, increased functionality and especially a faster camera. While my experience with ICS was terrible, I could see myself enjoying a functional, non-buggy version...
Basically, I have no idea what ROM or even what base OS version I am looking for. That said, I do know the criteria that matter to me, as stated prior:
Battery Life
Stability
Smooth UI
Cutting-Edge Feature Packed
I can't really think of any features I am specifically looking for, other than under-the-radar tethering and top-notch camera speed & functionality .
As I have no attachment to any specific OS version, suppose that would mean that if battery life, stability and smoothness issues are equal amongst ROM variants, I would be looking for a Jellybean ROM - as it would be most packed with new features... right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using black star v flawless in my eyes..
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium

Kinda of afraid to try some ROMS

I have been running Bean's ROM since build 1. Everything works the way it should. Love it.
I am curious about the other ROMs in the open android forum, but they all seem to screw up GPS (i need this), camera is flaky, etc.
Is there a AOSP based ROM that has no issues and if you want to go back to TW you just re flash the TW rom. Meaning no flashing extra files to fix stuff that AOSP changes.
My last Sammy phone was a nexus and you just flashed compatible roms and all was good
You're out of luck. You have to flash a downgrade file. It's like 200kb so it's not hard at all... GPS is solid on all aosp roms I've tried. And camera doesn't have any noticeable difference. If you're scared, don't try it. If you have some form of balls then man up and flash it buddy don't take that as being mean. Just joking around
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Why do you have to flash a downgrade file? What does it do
Sent from my unlocked Note 2
No offense taken. :beer:
Sent from my unlocked Note 2
It removes the multi user directory structures that were introduced in 4.2. The files on user storage won't be mapped right for 4.1 otherwise.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
I'm kind of the with you, man. Not really afraid I'm just not wanting to have to redo all I've done to what I have and don't really know that aosp is for me anyway. Really getting an itch to try something other than Beans though, I've just become so complacent, feels like home now. First phone I've rooted and ROMd (g2x was nothing but a nightmare to mod for the most part, so I never did) so I'm not the most knowledgeable on android per say, but I've run Linux for almost ten years so it's not too unfamiliar.
Just be prepared to deal with problems, they're half the fun when messing with anything new, and after fixing it you've gained more knowledge, always satisfying.
Current:
VZW GNll running B10, 6,200MAh Hyperion with a Dremel'd box of otters & iPad 2
Graveyard: Droid - Droid 3 - T-Mo G2X - iPhone 4S
You said it better. Not afraid just dont want to deal with odin abd that **** again.
Sent from my unlocked Note 2
earled said:
You said it better. Not afraid just dont want to deal with odin abd that **** again.
Sent from my unlocked Note 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You wouldn't have to mess with ODIN again just by trying out a new ROM.
Run a nandroid.. And backup your data in your local sdcard.. GPS is not an issue for most and the fix is to install a stock ROM then go back to AOSP anyways so you should be fine.. Camera does have an issue but only if you use touch to zoom and flash at the same time ( third party cameras have no issue what so ever)
Try AOSP and don't be scard .. That is unless you are scared you won't ever go back to TW
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
I bounce back and forth between TW and AOSP alot and it really is not that big of a deal. You flash the small zip file after flashing or restoring a TW rom and all is the way it was. I have also had pretty good luck with GPS and I've found some nice 3rd party camera apps if my pics aren't top my liking.
I say go for it. With the apps and tools available these days for backing up and restoring, there should be no fear of playing around. Going back is a 5 minute restore away if aosp is not for you.
BTW, since kejar31 is in the house....try out carbon. Pure sweetness!!!!
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I run liquidsmooth 2.1 stable, and I like it. Runs fairly stable with a few minor bugs.
1. Sometimes device freezes requiring battery removal when in range of some Wi-Fi networks. I work around this by using tasker to turn off Wi-Fi when I'm not home
2. The only GPS bug I have found is GPS toggle will cause GPS service to look for location indefinitely. This seems to be caused by the need to click I agree every time, which is hidden when using toggle. The work around for now is to disable Wi-Fi location services, but this causes Google now to complain
3. Bluetooth headset support is still non existent and Google don't seem to care lol
4. Still cannot send DTMF tones once dialer execution is completed. Can set long strings of pause/wait commands ie. "," or ";" however once strings are complete Android system prevents any further DTMF from being sent. Most likely some retarded developer at Google decided this would be a great feature so you don't accidentally hit keys with your face.... but in reality all this does is prevent you from checking your voicemail. Considering the age and the number of posts on the bug report, it seems Google don't care about this problem either lol
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app

[Q] Hunting Kit Kat ROM for replace JB ROM

hello guys.. okay I will make this quick to the point...
before we begin, I'm a poweruser with hundreds of apps installed and for honest I'm using all of them.. included the Xposed Modules.
After time to time I recognized this JB based ROM ARTMOD (which is still based on Official Moto ROM) kinda not reliable anymore, boot time is insanely more than 5 minutes even I removed some useless from startup entry.
Rarely to soft reboot and I have to execute Greenify very often to free up some RAM when I wanna use my app or the RAZR getting slow.
One problem I found with my RAZR is the SystemUI process kinda eat up my RAM like crazy (the highest is about 290MB), because of this I wanna look some alternative custom ROM in priority to Kit Kat ROM. As I know Kit Kat ROM is light on RAM consumption so I can load bunch of apps I need in RAZR's 1 GB RAM.
Also since ICS, RAZR is getting short freezed after installing/updating apps from APK files or from Google Play Store, and still occured until now in my ARTMOD ROM. Anyhow what caused..?
recently for the last week I've been crazy hunting Kit Kat custom ROM for my RAZR MAXX, and my choosen one is Liquid Smooth, most of Xposed Modules I used already integrated in Liquid Smooth.
I've been tested this Liquid Smooth for about 5 days with regular basis in BMM slot 2, but I haven't test it for heavy usage with all of my apps installed. So I'm still worried if I restore all of the apps and data with Nandroid Manager the ROM won't hold. Because I've been tested with MIUI (ICS based) last year and end up with launcher crashed and endless loop, still didn't know what will happen with Liquid Smooth.
Fpr the last resort about my problem maybe I will planning to buy a new phone, because is all about hardware resource which is RAZR getting it's limit, my target is the Xperia Z2 which is just announced in MWC but in my country still about 2-3 months for it's availability.
So for the time being, I just wanna my RAZR is getting hold up before Xperia Z2 arrived. Any advice guys..? Feel free to ask anything...
Thanks before and sorry if my English is bad.
You tried mokee rom?
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
kartik.kayz said:
You tried mokee rom?
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already but I haven't tested in regular basis, in personal I prefer Liquid Smooth for now...
Any hot features for daliy basis..? I haven't look around inside and only tested it 1 time less than 10 minutes.
And Mokee ROM slot in BMM already erased cause there's something I dislike inside it (and horribly I totally forget it)
Try a combo of Slimkat + JBX kernel. The rom itself goes pretty light on memory and cpu load and the custom kernel has some pretty neat features if you need some extra power (eg. overclocking, tuning memory management etc.).
tridentcore said:
Already but I haven't tested in regular basis, in personal I prefer Liquid Smooth for now...
Any hot features for daliy basis..? I haven't look around inside and only tested it 1 time less than 10 minutes.
And Mokee ROM slot in BMM already erased cause there's something I dislike inside it (and horribly I totally forget it)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't used it that much too. It has bugs too.
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
dubisz said:
Try a combo of Slimkat + JBX kernel. The rom itself goes pretty light on memory and cpu load and the custom kernel has some pretty neat features if you need some extra power (eg. overclocking, tuning memory management etc.).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any hot features for daily basis...? I kinda interest for bunch of built-in features in Liquid Smooth taken from Xposed Modules.
For flashing custom kernel, I kinda very new here and honestly never done it. Is it easy as flashing zip file..?
before I try SlimKat, is there any major bugs for daily basis..?
kartik.kayz said:
I didn't used it that much too. It has bugs too.
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't give me that.. hahaha... I'm looking for ROM for daily basis...
not for testing or something because my RAZR is my only phone for work and everything...
tridentcore said:
Any hot features for daily basis...? I kinda interest for bunch of built-in features in Liquid Smooth taken from Xposed Modules.
For flashing custom kernel, I kinda very new here and honestly never done it. Is it easy as flashing zip file..?
I will try for Slimkat and post my comment here as soon as possible...
Don't give me that.. hahaha... I'm looking for ROM for daily basis...
not for testing or something because my RAZR is my only phone for work and everything...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know there is no fully stable kk rom for our razr. I guess razr is kk wafers.
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
tridentcore said:
Any hot features for daily basis...? I kinda interest for bunch of built-in features in Liquid Smooth taken from Xposed Modules.
For flashing custom kernel, I kinda very new here and honestly never done it. Is it easy as flashing zip file..?
I will try for Slimkat and post my comment here as soon as possible...
Don't give me that.. hahaha... I'm looking for ROM for daily basis...
not for testing or something because my RAZR is my only phone for work and everything...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there's quite a lot of bundled tweaks and options which you can fiddle with. But first of all - it's really stable and smooth.Oh, and flashing a custom kexec kernel (and all kit kat roms use it) is as easy as flashing a rom or gapps - just a zip file in BMM.
dubisz said:
Well there's quite a lot of bundled tweaks and options which you can fiddle with. But first of all - it's really stable and smooth.Oh, and flashing a custom kexec kernel (and all kit kat roms use it) is as easy as flashing a rom or gapps - just a zip file in BMM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already tried Slimkat but the built-in features is not much as Liquid Smooth.. And I didn't know if if I'm wrong... Liquid Smooth is better than SlimKat in responsive regular UI navigation... Haven't tested it for long enought, maybe I try again later...
A decent build is more than enought for daily basis, as I know every build published we need re-flash the ROM or if lucky there's ROM updater built-in trought OTA..
Well if you prefer LiquidSmooth, you can try JBX kernel with it.
dubisz said:
Well if you prefer LiquidSmooth, you can try JBX kernel with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already tried and hey... kinda better in my opinion... still going around with Liquid Smooth as the candidate for my RAZR...
Even I already know the HDMI will never work (damn you Motorola) after flashed Kit Kat but I prefer the significant performance improvement after this.. So guys, is there any advice before I begin to replace my JB..?
---------
This is may the future steps I will take if 100% going to Liquid Smooth (tell me if I missing something)
- I flash and factory reset (do I need factory reset or just dirty flash..?) with GApps (any modular version is okay I guess)
- If I take factory reset then install Nandroid Manager Pro to restore Android ID for license and other needs (like LINE Messenger restoration)
- Restore ALL of my application from nandroid backup file, for the details I have 290 apps and once again I'm using all of them until now, and this step make me worried most because kinda afraid after restoration or reboot the ROM won't hold all of my apps. Still I don't know what will happens after hundreds of apps restored. I will take my chance.
- Next step is double-check all of my apps if they working fine in Kit Kat ROM, still dunno what will happen here, hundreds of apps and not all of them Kit Kat ready.
- If all of the apps working fine then I will going for the first day of daily basis with Kit Kat ROM. Hopefully everything will hold until my new phone available.
------------
About the hundreds of apps in my RAZR, if you guys wanna ask what I'm doing with all of them... well I'm a professional user but not a professional developer.. just a user hahaha.. I will download an application which is has a great or killer function or alternative app which is better than the official app. For example, Cloudii which is all-in-one cloud storage management but still I install the DropBox, Drive and OneDrive independently for 2nd chance in case Cloudii got some problem. Fast for Facebook for quick viewing but Facebook official app for Code Generator when I login in my notebook. Well, that's some of it...
That's why I always do a total backup for my apps so I can restore it with the data included and continue using it without re-login or register again. For example, LINE Messenger, after we migrate to another device the chat history will be deleted in old device but NOT migrated to new device and for me truly dislike it. I never delete any message history even my SMS messages is about 19,800 records saved since I'm using Galaxy Gio as my first Android phone 3 years ago.
Even now I worried when I got Xperia Z2 how can I restore all of my apps if root (safe root) not available. Time will talk I guess hahahaa..
Well, one problem you might have with your apps is that you're migrating between Android versions. Theoretically they're all compatible but results may vary For example I restore apps only in roms of the same Android version - prior to installing KitKat I had some apps backed up from 4.2.2 which I was on before, but preferred to do a clean install. They usually run smoother and better this way.
I do this as well. Keep backups for each ROM.
Sent from my XT912 using xda app-developers app
dubisz said:
Well, one problem you might have with your apps is that you're migrating between Android versions. Theoretically they're all compatible but results may vary For example I restore apps only in roms of the same Android version - prior to installing KitKat I had some apps backed up from 4.2.2 which I was on before, but preferred to do a clean install. They usually run smoother and better this way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I will do that way but maybe gonna use some filter to some apps, for LINE Messenger which is I need the chat history and the other apps...
For standalone apps or cloud based apps like Dropbox or Facebook I take clean restore, maybe safe this way for some time..
Still wondering around inside Liquid Smooth today... still...... 80% hahahaha...
zero66 said:
I do this as well. Keep backups for each ROM.
Sent from my XT912 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I always backup each day after install/update apps for safety with my records and data inside each apps..
Okey... this may the answer for all of this big woops.. hahaha..
at 7.00 PM (my local time), already brave enought to flash Liquid Smooth in my RAZR MAXX, Factory Reset and data wipe...
And then do the restoration with Nandroid Manager, okey this is the deal breaker... after 5 hours of restoration I've encountered 10 loops with some apps while in restoration process.. force restart each loops and so on... After 11 loops.. I'm done... stop the restoration and back to the Jelly Bean ARTMOD.. only in 10 minutes done with BMM restoration, continue work with ARTMOD..
FYI, from 290 apps only 40 has been restored in that 5 hours... okay that is insane..!!!
Kit Kat Upgrade Plan Aborted... hahaha..
I guess, I have to hold down until Xperia Z2 arrive in my country...
Thanks guys for the advice and others.. sorry to dissapoint.. not upgrading to Kit Kat..
And sorry if my English is bad.. Thanks again..
--------------------
Maybe some of you will think why I didn't wait for it even take a long time or something else..
Well, as you know from my posts before this, I'm a professional user and yes shop many apps included the paid apps. My workplace as tutor in campus need a smartphone which is can handle anything without bug. In my opinion, I loved to use a custom ROM and really loved the customization, especially Recent UI in Liquid Smooth just like in the Windows Phone (I'm not talking that crap fruitphone).
5 hours in migration progress already make me worried what I must to do next if some of apps will not running nicely in Kit Kat. So I cancel all of the plans and back to ARTMOD, restored from BMM.
But despite loved the custom ROM, I really want the realibility in everyday usage basis. Because I'm not a person which is always monitoring the development progress in XDA forum. Yes I loved customization but until now Xposed Framework already make me satisified in every corners even deep customization may not available.
So for now, I will stick with the ARTMOD which is based in Official Moto JB (bloatwareless Moto JB). Performance is so-so but acceptable and realibility will hold up.

SGS III Performance issues

Hello,
After a year or so after buying a SGS III, I started experiencing slowdowns. Six months later I installed Android 4.3 as it was available with OTA. I run official ROM, nothing fancy. Now, I experience serious performance slowdowns during new screens loading, switching applications, any action in fact can be slow; when I listen to music (standard player) sometimes I get 10 cuts in a song.
I have like 60 apps installed. My average RAM load is 750 MB / 831 MB.
I have never reset to Factory defaults. I just tried deleting all my text msgs to improve loading, it dit not change anything.
I imagine the current services load is too heavy for a pretty old phone. Is this the reason for huge performance slowdowns (sometimes 5 secs delays)?
I also fear the development of the Samsung layer is pretty bad. When you take into account, the poor dev capabilities Samsung demonstrated with Kies, or with PC interface (I struggle uploading files to the device, it gets deconnected all the time). I think Samsung is good at electronics, but bad at software; this would be a personal "feeling". I aslo experienced huge performance drops with SGS1.
What do you think of the reasons for performance issues with SGSIII ?
You are on unmodified stock, that is the reason.
boomboomer said:
You are on unmodified stock, that is the reason.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No troll please, it s too easy
one more thing
There is one more think I wanted to add: I wonder if Samsung does not use "programmed obsolescence" (don't know if it is the correct term)...
No, I wasn't trolling. Unmodified stock has over sixty processes and services running all the time while most users only need four or five.
Over time and use the system will slow even further as firmware updates and third party apps interfere.
The phone hardware is well up to running 4.3, just not sixty things at once.
Your first step is to backup your personal data then factory reset and format the internal storage. This will improve things immediately but until you switch to a custom firmware, even one with a stock base, you will not solve the problem.
Even on stock firmware you can disable 80% of the junk Samsung installed.
Very honest opinion.. Just flash your phone with Cyanogen or another custom ROM.. This should be the best bet for you!
You should get KitKat 4.4.4 as of now.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using XDA Free mobile app
boomboomer said:
No, I wasn't trolling. Unmodified stock has over sixty processes and services running all the time while most users only need four or five.
Over time and use the system will slow even further as firmware updates and third party apps interfere.
The phone hardware is well up to running 4.3, just not sixty things at once.
Your first step is to backup your personal data then factory reset and format the internal storage. This will improve things immediately but until you switch to a custom firmware, even one with a stock base, you will not solve the problem.
Even on stock firmware you can disable 80% of the junk Samsung installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your explanations, they are helpful.
I experienced huge performance drops one year or so after installing Darky ROM on my SGS1; I had to switch back to stock ROM. That's why I'm not eager to try the "custom ROM experience" again; it takes too much time.
I still have two questions to you, you seem to know well this Android subject:
1. Does the factory reset changes the ROM installed, or just wipes the user data?
2. How do I disable some stock services? Is there a good app? (I could not find anything useful by forum search)
AOSP Custom rom is for the enthusiast only, as they all come with drawbacks like shorter battery life or hardware issues. Custom rom based on stock is suitable for daily use, as they are just debloated.
Factory reset only wipes user data.
App manager, click on the service or app then disable button. Caution that some are essential to things you might need, search and read here on xda for guides on what is pure bloat.
Bro! I'm using the same phone. Had loads of problems with Samsung's TouchWiz. Your phone is absolutely fine. Use Cyanogen CM11 it is way better. I have been using Cyanogen for almost 6-7 months and honestly I have had problems but XDA is always full of solutions.
Go to "get.cm" and use the automatic installer to install cyanogen into your phone without you having to do anything such as rooting and flashing.. Cyanogen Installer does it automatically for you. If you are not satisfied you can always manually install cm
" https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&ei=AiF_VOnCFNO3uQSw1YEY&url=http://m.ibtimes.co.in/how-install-cyanogenmod-android-4-4-4-kitkat-cm11-m9-custom-rom-samsung-galaxy-s3-i9300-tutorial-606129&ved=0CBoQFjAA&usg=AFQjCNHiKLLDngZKWM8lvfSa15QTXRRzdA&sig2=VZslZMxWssAwAyjfm0F8WQ"
Which is of course free of cost!! You just need 4 things
1. Samsung GS3 i9300
2. USB
3. A PC
4. INTERNET
Check out my Setup
https://plus.google.com/102584932386482931948/posts/VuXyAnPJMtM
Sent from my GT-I9300 using XDA Free mobile app
Thanks for the hints. I found this thread witch can be helpful: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s2/themes-apps/applications-safe-to-remove-t1069924
I think I will use Titanium Back Up App to remove unused services. Crap, I'll have to root the phone! I ll wait till I get a new phone, I'm looking for a good LTE-A no QHD (just FullHD) candidate.
Returning to the thread point, does all brands have this kind of performance problems or are there some more stock optimized phones? I'm hesitating getting away from Samsung, even if the OLED screen are really great (excepted the color saturated ones like the Alpha's). I was told HTC was more optimizing its layer, but I don't know if it is really true...
ROOTING your phone will unlock endless possibilities!
Regarding HTC, their flagship devices are very good.. Always first with updates right after google launches for their nexus devices very good sound and faster than other same priced smart phones.
Even Nexus devices are really a great deal giving you stock android with great performance and .01% lag.
Samsung is a more feature based smart phone with over used RAM and disabling the system apps causes the system to crash every now and then. I too love Samsung devices but prefer to use the stock android or even a custom ROM instead of TouchWiz.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using XDA Free mobile app
boomboomer said:
AOSP Custom rom is for the enthusiast only, as they all come with drawbacks like shorter battery life or hardware issues. Custom rom based on stock is suitable for daily use, as they are just debloated.
Factory reset only wipes user data.
App manager, click on the service or app then disable button. Caution that some are essential to things you might need, search and read here on xda for guides on what is pure bloat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eventually, I rooted my phone, as it has no more warranty anyway. I've unistalled some forced system apps, frozen some RAM resilient apps/services. Now I have an average of 200 MB free RAM and the screens loading in TouchWiz are fast as at the beginning
So, thanks to your help, I can answer my own question about performance loss: too many resilient services for a 1GB RAM phone; it's about time I get a new phone
I hesitated to root the phone because I will give it to my girlfriend and she is the type of user clicking on every OK button when she gets a dialog. How she said she will not take the phone because I tinkered with it! Ah women ...

[Q] Best custom rom for S-On?

I am new to this, after switching from an iPhone.
And so far it has been sooo confusing.
I have learned that you cannot get ViperOne on AT&T without S-off because they haven't updated to 4.4.4
But the guide doesn't mention that? Luckily I asked on their IRC before I tried.
I am wondering if there are any good custom roms for 4.4.2 with S-On.
After learning about ViperOne and having no warning that it won't work on AT&T, I am skeptical if their are any that will work.
I am new to this. and I'm very surprised the official guide on Venomroms.com doesn't warn you that it doesn't work on AT&T without S-off.
Coming from using and iPhone for the last 3-4 years this seems ridiculous. So any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also is it HTC that makes it so hard to root , unlock, and customize? Or is it Android? I'm having a hard time understanding why everyone recommends android. I had no idea you had to pay money to load custom roms.
Edit - So I just read that you can't flash custom firmware without being S-Off. Guess that answers the question. This phone sucks. No wonder why iPhone 6 was still out of stock.
nigerlet said:
I am new to this, after switching from an iPhone.
And so far it has been sooo confusing.
I have learned that you cannot get ViperOne on AT&T without S-off because they haven't updated to 4.4.4
But the guide doesn't mention that? Luckily I asked on their IRC before I tried.
I am wondering if there are any good custom roms for 4.4.2 with S-On.
After learning about ViperOne and having no warning that it won't work on AT&T, I am skeptical if their are any that will work.
I am new to this. and I'm very surprised the official guide on Venomroms.com doesn't warn you that it doesn't work on AT&T without S-off.
Coming from using and iPhone for the last 3-4 years this seems ridiculous. So any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also is it HTC that makes it so hard to root , unlock, and customize? Or is it Android? I'm having a hard time understanding why everyone recommends android. I had no idea you had to pay money to load custom roms.
Edit - So I just read that you can't flash custom firmware without being S-Off. Guess that answers the question. This phone sucks. No wonder why iPhone 6 was still out of stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what custom roms were you running on your iPhone?
edit: Must not feed troll...
1. A whole new world of apps
Android offers a wide range of apps for every situation, but when you want something that offers a somewhat ”more advanced” function you usually require root level permissions. Having root permission simply means to be an ”administrator” of your device, so you have control over deeper interactions with the system. This allows us to uninstall bloatware (pre-loaded apps), control firewalls, management systems and even enable gesture controls through multi-touch modifications. There are also apps that work fine without root, but whose full potential is only realized with root, such as antivirus apps, with their locking systems/remote access or CleanMaster, which lets you remove bloatware if you are rooted.
2. Customize like never before
Android devices are famous for their ability to change launcher, icon packs, live wallpapers, ringtones, keyboard sounds and much more. However, this customization is usually limited to superficial aesthetic changes. With root permissions you can modify the system files to your liking, including system sounds as well as the boot animation, which is what you see when you start your device up. The level of customization that is possible is near-limitless, but you can only start to see how deep the rabbit hole goes once you’ve taken the first step.
3. Performance beyond all limits
There are already many apps that can free up your RAM or speed up your phone, and However, with ”normal” methods it is not possible to overcome the limitations imposed by the hardware itself, but only to work within those predefined limits. Once again, root permission comes to the rescue, allowing you to modify the actual speed of the CPU via overclocking. To do this it is necessary to flash a custom kernel – the link connecting your hardware to software – that allows it, but the process is very simple, even more so using the app Kernel Manager.
4. No more problems with the battery
Smartphones continue to evolve, but the Achilles heel of the battery has not yet been resolved. Although the best phones can guarantee 24 hours of use (and beyond, thanks to power-saving features), many of us fail to get to the end of the evening. Solution? Buy yourself the LG G3, the new king of the battery! Or, if you’re not going to shell out that kind of money, or because you are simply loyal to your current smartphone, you can root and solve the problem yourself. With root you can access a number of functions that will allow you to choose how much power goes to the CPU, so setting a lower limit, called undervolting, can make significant savings in terms of power consumption. Again, you’ll need a different kernel to the one your phone came with.
5. Automate everything
Many of you already know the application Tasker, which allows us to automate virtually every aspect of our smartphones. For those not in the know, on the basis of an event (such as the insertion of the headphones, our specific location, a particular time of day etc) we can match an action to it (launch apps, send text messages, play a song) – all managed by this application. It also works without root permissions, but with them we will be able to access the complete list of possible interactions, such as activation of the internet, GPS, screen control, CPU speed, and much more.
6. Flash custom ROMs
This is the number one reason why the majority of Android users decide to get root permissions. In addition to radically (or subtly) customizing a smartphone, the major custom ROMs we like the most tend to outdo the stock ROM in terms of functionality, performance and fluidity; an example is OmniROM, who are working on a ROM for fully integrated voice commands, allowing you to control every function of your smartphone via voice commands. Another important feature is the ability to upgrade our old and manufacturer-abandoned smartphone with the latest versions of Android. Here’s our list of the most important custom ROM and root terms explained.
7. Block advertizing
While advertizing is, for many developers, their only source of income and the only thing that allows them to create otherwise free apps, it can also be a nuisance that you want to eliminate from your smartphone experience. If an app contains invasive advertising that not only consumes a large amount of data but that can also potentially trigger subscriptions without our consent, as we’ve seen repeatedly with WhatsApp, it’s a problem that can be dealt with if you have root. Apps like AdBlock Plus give you control over the advertizing contained in apps and browsers. The use of this application and of other similar ones is possible only for those with root level permissions.
8. Perform full backups
Every Android device has the ability to make a backup of applications and certain data, within the settings menu or through the use of management software like Samsung’s Kies. Even if you decide to use these options together with various cloud services, nothing can ultimately compete with the features offered by root permission backups. For example, it is only with root that you can use the legendary app Titanium Backup, with which you can make copies of the entire system image of your device and move it to your SD card or computer. You also have the the ability to automate the process at regular intervals.
9. Access features from other phones
One of the best features (or worst, from the point of view of programmers) of Android devices is the incredible variety of phones and tablets that use it, not to mention the individual manufacturer changes to the Android system. This allows us to always have a different device than everyone else, but it also means not always being able to enjoy the unique features reserved for a group of top of the range smartphones. As you’re probably starting to realize, root permissions also allow us to do this. In forums like XDA Developers there is a wealth of flashable zips available for all sorts of features, scripts and functions. In addition, we can enable limited functions from specific manufacturers, such as installing LG’s Knock On feature on non-LG devices, or using features such as tethering to share and connect phones via USB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
10. Become the master of your universe
This is actually one of the most convincing reasons to root your phone. You bought it, so it’s yours and you don’t want to be told what you can or cannot do with your own property. Android, by its very nature, is a free system born from the idea of creating an ecosystem of independent software and hardware that is open to everyone Getting root permission, in addition to the benefits listed above and many more that I could mention, will make you the ”real” owner of your smartphone, giving you complete control, albeit with some risks, of customizing basically anything you want to, exactly how you want it. And this is perhaps the best part of rooting your Android.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
rquinn19 said:
And what custom roms were you running on your iPhone?
edit: Must not feed troll...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't need one. A jailbreak was enough. iOS is flawless. I made a mistake buying this ****. But hey the speakers are nice.
scoot0073 said:
1. A whole new world of apps
Android offers a wide range of apps for every situation, but when you want something that offers a somewhat ”more advanced” function you usually require root level permissions. Having root permission simply means to be an ”administrator” of your device, so you have control over deeper interactions with the system. This allows us to uninstall bloatware (pre-loaded apps), control firewalls, management systems and even enable gesture controls through multi-touch modifications. There are also apps that work fine without root, but whose full potential is only realized with root, such as antivirus apps, with their locking systems/remote access or CleanMaster, which lets you remove bloatware if you are rooted.
2. Customize like never before
Android devices are famous for their ability to change launcher, icon packs, live wallpapers, ringtones, keyboard sounds and much more. However, this customization is usually limited to superficial aesthetic changes. With root permissions you can modify the system files to your liking, including system sounds as well as the boot animation, which is what you see when you start your device up. The level of customization that is possible is near-limitless, but you can only start to see how deep the rabbit hole goes once you’ve taken the first step.
3. Performance beyond all limits
There are already many apps that can free up your RAM or speed up your phone, and However, with ”normal” methods it is not possible to overcome the limitations imposed by the hardware itself, but only to work within those predefined limits. Once again, root permission comes to the rescue, allowing you to modify the actual speed of the CPU via overclocking. To do this it is necessary to flash a custom kernel – the link connecting your hardware to software – that allows it, but the process is very simple, even more so using the app Kernel Manager.
4. No more problems with the battery
Smartphones continue to evolve, but the Achilles heel of the battery has not yet been resolved. Although the best phones can guarantee 24 hours of use (and beyond, thanks to power-saving features), many of us fail to get to the end of the evening. Solution? Buy yourself the LG G3, the new king of the battery! Or, if you’re not going to shell out that kind of money, or because you are simply loyal to your current smartphone, you can root and solve the problem yourself. With root you can access a number of functions that will allow you to choose how much power goes to the CPU, so setting a lower limit, called undervolting, can make significant savings in terms of power consumption. Again, you’ll need a different kernel to the one your phone came with.
5. Automate everything
Many of you already know the application Tasker, which allows us to automate virtually every aspect of our smartphones. For those not in the know, on the basis of an event (such as the insertion of the headphones, our specific location, a particular time of day etc) we can match an action to it (launch apps, send text messages, play a song) – all managed by this application. It also works without root permissions, but with them we will be able to access the complete list of possible interactions, such as activation of the internet, GPS, screen control, CPU speed, and much more.
6. Flash custom ROMs
This is the number one reason why the majority of Android users decide to get root permissions. In addition to radically (or subtly) customizing a smartphone, the major custom ROMs we like the most tend to outdo the stock ROM in terms of functionality, performance and fluidity; an example is OmniROM, who are working on a ROM for fully integrated voice commands, allowing you to control every function of your smartphone via voice commands. Another important feature is the ability to upgrade our old and manufacturer-abandoned smartphone with the latest versions of Android. Here’s our list of the most important custom ROM and root terms explained.
7. Block advertizing
While advertizing is, for many developers, their only source of income and the only thing that allows them to create otherwise free apps, it can also be a nuisance that you want to eliminate from your smartphone experience. If an app contains invasive advertising that not only consumes a large amount of data but that can also potentially trigger subscriptions without our consent, as we’ve seen repeatedly with WhatsApp, it’s a problem that can be dealt with if you have root. Apps like AdBlock Plus give you control over the advertizing contained in apps and browsers. The use of this application and of other similar ones is possible only for those with root level permissions.
8. Perform full backups
Every Android device has the ability to make a backup of applications and certain data, within the settings menu or through the use of management software like Samsung’s Kies. Even if you decide to use these options together with various cloud services, nothing can ultimately compete with the features offered by root permission backups. For example, it is only with root that you can use the legendary app Titanium Backup, with which you can make copies of the entire system image of your device and move it to your SD card or computer. You also have the the ability to automate the process at regular intervals.
9. Access features from other phones
One of the best features (or worst, from the point of view of programmers) of Android devices is the incredible variety of phones and tablets that use it, not to mention the individual manufacturer changes to the Android system. This allows us to always have a different device than everyone else, but it also means not always being able to enjoy the unique features reserved for a group of top of the range smartphones. As you’re probably starting to realize, root permissions also allow us to do this. In forums like XDA Developers there is a wealth of flashable zips available for all sorts of features, scripts and functions. In addition, we can enable limited functions from specific manufacturers, such as installing LG’s Knock On feature on non-LG devices, or using features such as tethering to share and connect phones via USB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
10. Become the master of your universe
This is actually one of the most convincing reasons to root your phone. You bought it, so it’s yours and you don’t want to be told what you can or cannot do with your own property. Android, by its very nature, is a free system born from the idea of creating an ecosystem of independent software and hardware that is open to everyone Getting root permission, in addition to the benefits listed above and many more that I could mention, will make you the ”real” owner of your smartphone, giving you complete control, albeit with some risks, of customizing basically anything you want to, exactly how you want it. And this is perhaps the best part of rooting your Android.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the android advertisement. Doesn't help with anything though. This OS is garbage. HTC also seemed to make it worse. But my phone is made out of aluminum which is pretty cool.
Stop complaining about the phone and just pay for sunshine s-off.
The issue is not your phone, but lack of research before buying.
---------- Post added at 09:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:49 AM ----------
If you want a 4.4.2 ROM, there are still some good ones. But you haven't stated why you even need or want a custom ROM at all, so its impossible to recommend anything until you do so.
You created a thread to ask for help ,but at same time you wanna bash something that you know nothing about. People on here are more than welcome to help you but by being negative is not going to help.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
redpoint73 said:
Stop complaining about the phone and just pay for sunshine s-off.
The issue is not your phone, but lack of research before buying.
---------- Post added at 09:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:49 AM ----------
If you want a 4.4.2 ROM, there are still some good ones. But you haven't stated why you even need or want a custom ROM at all, so its impossible to recommend anything until you do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok pretty much the only reason is the crazy ass battery drain. This phone is less than a month old and 100% can't last a day with light use. Seriously the battery % drops by the minute when I'm simply browsing the web. That's the only reason. Everything else seems like a bonus. But why should I have to spend $25 to have a decent battery?
Edit : I did read online that AT&T has a battery drain issue and that's why they are holding back updates. I did re-calibrate the battery didn't work. Factory resetting the phone also didn't work. After that I went to AT&T and the dude told me it's typical for HTC devices to drain that fast and tried to sell me a galaxy. I don't mean to be offensive, I'm just very disappointed and now I'm stuck with this phone for over a year.
nigerlet said:
Ok pretty much the only reason is the crazy ass battery drain. This phone is less than a month old and 100% can't last a day with light use. Seriously the battery % drops by the minutes when I'm simply browsing the web. That's the only reason. Everything else seems like a bonus. But why should I have to spend $25 to have a decent battery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Battery life is a complicated issue on any device, no matter what OS.
A few basic battery saving tips:
1) Turn off "auto" brightness and turn down the screen to the lowest brightness you find palatable (50% works for me).
2) Turn off GPS when not in use
3) Turn off sync for services you don't use
You should also check the signal strength (dBm) under Settings>About>Network>Signal Strength, and post what you see there.
Its also possible that AT&T bloat is killing the battery (some folks have had the issue) but it may not be a silver bullet.
It might just be a matter of using an app like Watchdog Task Manager to see what is eating the battery, and freezing or removing that app (if its not a critical one).
Alternately, I found that GoldenEye was a nice cleaned up "stockish" ROM back in olden times when I was on 4.4.2. I found it to run well on AT&T, and is "international" based so therefore devoid of any AT&T meddling:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2705640
redpoint73 said:
Battery life is a complicated issue on any device, no matter what OS.
Its possible that AT&T bloat is killing the battery (some folks have had the issue) but it may not be a silver bullet.
It might just be a matter of using an app like Watchdog Task Manager to see what is eating the battery, and freezing or removing that app (if its not a critical one).
Alternately, I found that GoldenEye was a nice cleaned up "stockish" ROM back in olden times when I was on 4.4.2. I found it to run well on AT&T, and is "international" based so therefore devoid of any AT&T meddling:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2705640
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I'll just pay the $25. I want the best if I'm getting a custom rom. And like I said in the edit post above I am stuck with this phone for over a year. Thanks for the help, sorry for being salty.
nigerlet said:
I guess I'll just pay the $25. I want the best if I'm getting a custom rom. And like I said in the edit post above I am stuck with this phone for over a year. Thanks for the help, sorry for being salty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've reconfigured my previous post to include some basic power saving tips. It occurred to me that if Android is new to you, battery life may be something rather simple, like screen brightness.
Check it out, and see if it helps.
I had typed up a message but you guys ninja'd me coming back to decency and handling things, so forget I was ever here.
As to the battery thing, I recommend flashing an AOSP ROM with nano or pico gapps. I've always gotten much better battery life using AOSP over Sense.
I never experienced the battery drain issue as a lot of others did.but then again 2 days after purchasing my At&T M8 I went to Sunshine and played the 25 to s-off. But coming from a iPhone/IOS after many years of use to another different manufacturer and OS I could totally understand your frustrations. I have never owned a IOS device always had and stayed with Android but I'd be in the exactly same boat as you if I did switch. Just be patient and read and ask questions , and welcome to the forum's
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
nigerlet said:
I am new to this, after switching from an iPhone.
And so far it has been sooo confusing.
I have learned that you cannot get ViperOne on AT&T without S-off because they haven't updated to 4.4.4
But the guide doesn't mention that? Luckily I asked on their IRC before I tried.
I am wondering if there are any good custom roms for 4.4.2 with S-On.
After learning about ViperOne and having no warning that it won't work on AT&T, I am skeptical if their are any that will work.
I am new to this. and I'm very surprised the official guide on Venomroms.com doesn't warn you that it doesn't work on AT&T without S-off.
Coming from using and iPhone for the last 3-4 years this seems ridiculous. So any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also is it HTC that makes it so hard to root , unlock, and customize? Or is it Android? I'm having a hard time understanding why everyone recommends android. I had no idea you had to pay money to load custom roms.
Edit - So I just read that you can't flash custom firmware without being S-Off. Guess that answers the question. This phone sucks. No wonder why iPhone 6 was still out of stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uhm, you dont have to be 4.4.4 to run the Viper rom nor do you have to be S-OFF. Just go to their site and download 2.5.0 which is the build that will run on AT&T's current 4.4.2. Once AT&T pushes the 4.4.4 update flash the 4.4.4 RUU then go back and flash Viper 3.2.1.
Dude, my M8 can go 2 days EASY. Simply the best phone that has been released yet.
I'm curious as well... I was running cm12 on my m7 but recently had to get a m8.. now im running into all sorts of issues. all i want is a stable sense/ lollipop rom. I want to stay s-on... htcdev's team frowns on s-off. HELP?!?
bford152 said:
I'm curious as well... I was running cm12 on my m7 but recently had to get a m8.. now im running into all sorts of issues. all i want is a stable sense/ lollipop rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ROMs are plenty stable. If you have issues, its likely due to firmware that is not compatible with the ROM.
bford152 said:
I want to stay s-on... htcdev's team frowns on s-off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What does that even mean? If you want full flexibility to mod the phone as you like, s-off the phone.
What I'm trying to ask, without s-off'ing the device, what custom roms based on lollipop on ATT software ver 4.4.2?
I think you want the Dev edition lollipop RUU. You will need to change CID and can be s-on. You will loose AT&T visual voicemail functionality (but might be able to add that back in with a mod) and no at&t specific apps will come with RUU, but the Dev edition is same code base as at&t version and will work on at&t device.
tommy_riley said:
I think you want the Dev edition lollipop RUU. You will need to change CID and can be s-on. You will loose AT&T visual voicemail functionality (but might be able to add that back in with a mod) and no at&t specific apps will come with RUU, but the Dev edition is same code base as at&t version and will work on at&t device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't you have to be s-off to change cid?

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