I recently got a Kindle HDX and I despise the way the store is laid out.
I want to install Google play but of course amazon took away that freedom so everything is purchased through their market... I've never owned an android before and don't know any technical guides, but all the easier ways/ways I understand are for earlier versions, and with forced updates Im at the newest version which apparently cant be rooted. If someone could explain how to:
1) Downgrade / regrade my kindle
2) Root the kindle
&
3) Get the google play store in terms I could understand, it would help alot.
ToastedSyrup said:
I recently got a Kindle HDX and I despise the way the store is laid out.
I want to install Google play but of course amazon took away that freedom so everything is purchased through their market... I've never owned an android before and don't know any technical guides, but all the easier ways/ways I understand are for earlier versions, and with forced updates Im at the newest version which apparently cant be rooted. If someone could explain how to:
1) Downgrade / regrade my kindle
2) Root the kindle
&
3) Get the google play store in terms I could understand, it would help alot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You really need some Android experience to pull off the required steps without bricking your device. My recommendation to wait for a solution to come to the level of firmware your device is running. If FireOS (Amazon Store) is too unpalatable suggest returning your device and pick-up a Nexus 7 instead.
I also recommend avoiding 'hacks' that allow installing Google Play/Services on FireOS. Problems abound. You can obtain the current version of many free android applications from other marketplaces such as 1Mobile. It is an imperfect solution but better than the alternatives IMO - especially for inexperienced users.
I'm thinking about getting a HDX 7 with the current firmware. Just wanted to ask whether or not it is currently possibly (or work in progress) to install a custom ROM ? If not, I won't buy it.
OdlG26 said:
I'm thinking about getting a HDX 7 with the current firmware. Just wanted to ask whether or not it is currently possibly (or work in progress) to install a custom ROM ? If not, I won't buy it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but the process is tedious and carries some risk. If successful you have the option of Nexus v4 or cm11. In your shoes I would look at something else.
Related
Is there a way? I just want to get Google Play Store working so I can use the full version of comicrack, which I have bought.
nexthoudini said:
Is there a way? I just want to get Google Play Store working so I can use the full version of comicrack, which I have bought.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't - at least on FireOS v4. Your device should auto-update to FireOS v5 over the next few weeks (according to Amazon). Possible a root option will become available on that version - or someone will device a way to get the Play Store working w/o root. Not going to happen with v4; you'll have to wait.
Root access can only be obtained on 4.5.2 or below (this is likely not the case here).
However, you should still be able to install Google apps without it: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/themes-apps/how-to-install-gapps-root-t2954372
nexthoudini said:
Is there a way? I just want to get Google Play Store working so I can use the full version of comicrack, which I have bought.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Davey126 said:
You can't - at least on FireOS v4. Your device should auto-update to FireOS v5 over the next few weeks (according to Amazon). Possible a root option will become available on that version - or someone will device a way to get the Play Store working w/o root. Not going to happen with v4; you'll have to wait.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EncryptedCurse said:
Root access can only be obtained on 4.5.2 or below (this is likely not the case here).
However, you should still be able to install Google apps without it: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/themes-apps/how-to-install-gapps-root-t2954372
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Be prepared for a battle as Amazon and Google frameworks don't play nice together on FireOS v4 (KitKat based). That said - it is possible as the link suggests. Some apps run great while others, including the Play Store and license entitlements, can be temperamental. If you do get it working/stable be sure to block automatic Google Services updates so your hard work doesn't get undone as new versions roll in.
You might want to wait until after you device is upgraded to FireOS v5 (Lollipop based) as experience on other devices suggests Google Play services is more compatible with that version. Other options include sideloading favoriate apps and/or installing an alternate app marketplace such as 1Mobile.
KingRoot
I was able to root Saturn (HDX 8.9 2014 running 4.5.2) using KingRoot 4.0+.
Go here for instructions: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/general/to-root-4th-gen-amazon-device-t3104853
ignoramous said:
I was able to root Saturn (HDX 8.9 2014 running 4.5.2) using KingRoot 4.0+.
Go here for instructions: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/general/to-root-4th-gen-amazon-device-t3104853
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was recently learned 4.5.5.1 can also be rooted using the same method. A big win for 4th gen owners as 4.5.3-4.5.5 can not be rooted and there is no rollback option. 4th gen devices will also receive FireOS v5 which has been rooted on other Amazon tabs.
Davey126 said:
It was recently learned 4.5.5.1 can also be rooted using the same method. A big win for 4th gen owners as 4.5.3-4.5.5 can not be rooted and there is no rollback option. 4th gen devices will also receive FireOS v5 which has been rooted on other Amazon tabs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw the other thread... Any one you know working to make a working true-recovery and/or CM build w/ pseudo-recovery for the 4th Gen?
How does one go about exploring creating a CM build for a device? Instructions? /just curious, not that I'd actually try it...
Well first I believe the bootloader would need to be unlocked or a SafeStrap workaround found. Neither of these events has happened to my knowledge, so custom ROMs remain out of reach on the 4th gen.
rockon999 said:
Well first I believe the bootloader would need to be unlocked or a SafeStrap workaround found. Neither of these events has happened to my knowledge, so custom ROMs remain out of reach on the 4th gen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edit: I felt uncomfortable with this post immediately after submitting. Looking back it appears loading Safestrap v4 on a 4th gen device is a bad idea. Leaving the original text for reference as email notifications probably went out.
@rockon999 is correct for known working solutions. However, a recent development has lead to a root solution for 4th gen devices running FireOS 4.5.5.1. A few daring users then installed Safestrap v4 (risky!) and a custom rom (either CM11 or Nexus v4) and reported all is working well.
Please understand that if you go this route neither Safestrap v4 or any of the custom roms have been validated against a 4.5.5.1 by the developer. You might see success - or brick your device.
My guidance (FWIW): Wait a few more weeks to see if further testing confirms Safestrap v4 is safe to use with FireOS 4.5.5.1. Now, someone is bound to chime in and state that it worked for them. Great!! But don't confuse a single data point with the developer's nod-of-approval.
hi, after reading a few threads on the kindle forum, unsure whether or not ; given the restriction & safegurads amazon had hardcoded into 4.5.5.2 fire os if it's possible to modify the device or even put gapps on it?
the kindle was a gift that has largely gathered dust in a drawer due to the amazon centric nature of it and my lack of interest in using amazon services. is there any way to free it up and either install something like cyanogenmod or gapps on it?
thanks!
robyneire said:
hi, after reading a few threads on the kindle forum, unsure whether or not ; given the restriction & safegurads amazon had hardcoded into 5.5.2 fire os if it's possible to modify the device or even put gapps on it?
the kindle was a gift that has largely gathered dust in a drawer due to the amazon centric nature of it and my lack of interest in using amazon services. is there any way to free it up and either install something like cyanogenmod or gapps on it?
thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Having trouble identifying your device. Don't recognize FireOS 5.5.2. Typo? Also, please pass along your device model (eg: HD, HDX) and approximate screen size. From there can answer your question and/or direct you to the appropriate forum.
Davey126 said:
Having trouble identifying your device. Don't recognize FireOS 5.5.2. Typo? Also, please pass along your device model (eg: HD, HDX) and approximate screen size. From there can answer your question and/or direct you to the appropriate forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi, according to the device page of the kindle it's "kindle fire HDX (3rd Generation)" firmeware / fire OS version "4.5.5.2". with LTE.
thanks.
robyneire said:
hi, according to the device page of the kindle it's "kindle fire HDX (3rd Generation)" firmeware / fire OS version "4.5.5.2". with LTE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks; missing '4' prefix threw me. Given LTE likely a 8.9 (larger) screen model also known as Apollo.
Path to a custom ROM:
- downgrade FireOS from 4.5.5.2 to 3.2.8.0 (easy)
- root with TowelRoot (easy)
- unlock bootloader (challenging for some)
- install custom recovery (fairly easy)
- flash custom ROM (fairly easy)
Custom ROMs based on KitKat, Lollipop and Marshmallow are available. While all are stable and largely feature complete none support LTE (well); some have issues with Bluetooth. That said, if a WiFi based tablet with full access to the Google Play Store and a gorgeous screen sounds appealing then transforming your HDX will likely be worth the effort. Note some technical expertise and a Windows PC (Macs and Linux also work) is required to unlock the bootloader.
Installing Google Play Services/Store on FireOS v4 is a dicey proposition that seldom works out well. Unfortunately, 3rd gen devices can not be upgraded to FireOS v5 which plays nice (nicer) with Google Framework/Services.
Hi guys,
So I finally got tired of the amazon appstore and wanted to install the google play store on my hdx. there are a number of tutorials online which show how, the google framworks, accounts manager, play services, play store and gmail apks can be installed but they are outdated and thus the android running on them then, was not the current 4.4 Kitkat the HDX'S (2013) are running now. After downloading and installing numerous versions of the apks listed above I managed to sign in to the play store but I got the RH-01 error. Adding to this google play services can run in the back ground but any attempt to open it results in it not responding. My question is what versions of the above apks correspond with Andriod kitkat as I'm thinking that since I roughly tried to match versions of those apks for sideloading they may neeed to be all within the same version frameowrk to work together, and upon installing them they can update together?
I'm also pretty sure this can still be done and no rooting is required for this method, I just don't know which apks would work together for my HDX. It may be that I am not installing a cpu matching apk (arm, x86) or the dpi or ughhh so many things. You guys are geniuses and this is probably a really small problem compared to all the bug solving on custom roms. But this tablet it still pretty powerful compared to the stuff amazon is pumping out now and can still hold its own, I don't want to give up on it yet. Your help would be really appreciated.
If it helps, my kindle technical stuff:
Kindle fire 8.9 HDX 2013 model
Current os: Fire OS 4.5.5.2 (Fake arse kitkat last official update from amazon was 16th Sep 2016 s should be the last itertion of kitkat I believe)
Timisomorin said:
Hi guys,
So I finally got tired of the amazon appstore and wanted to install the google play store on my hdx. there are a number of tutorials online which show how, the google framworks, accounts manager, play services, play store and gmail apks can be installed but they are outdated and thus the android running on them then, was not the current 4.4 Kitkat the HDX'S (2013) are running now. After downloading and installing numerous versions of the apks listed above I managed to sign in to the play store but I got the RH-01 error. Adding to this google play services can run in the back ground but any attempt to open it results in it not responding. My question is what versions of the above apks correspond with Andriod kitkat as I'm thinking that since I roughly tried to match versions of those apks for sideloading they may neeed to be all within the same version frameowrk to work together, and upon installing them they can update together?
I'm also pretty sure this can still be done and no rooting is required for this method, I just don't know which apks would work together for my HDX. It may be that I am not installing a cpu matching apk (arm, x86) or the dpi or ughhh so many things. You guys are geniuses and this is probably a really small problem compared to all the bug solving on custom roms. But this tablet it still pretty powerful compared to the stuff amazon is pumping out now and can still hold its own, I don't want to give up on it yet. Your help would be really appreciated.
If it helps, my kindle technical stuff:
Kindle fire 8.9 HDX 2013 model
Current os: Fire OS 4.5.5.2 (Fake arse kitkat last official update from amazon was 16th Sep 2016 s should be the last itertion of kitkat I believe)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Play Services/Store does not play nice with FireOS v4. One can get it to work (kinda) with considerable effort but the honeymoon is typically short lived as frequent Google updates wreak havoc. Blocking updates is both difficult and often counterproductive due to app dependencies on the latest framework/services builds.
A better approach is to root the device and install a custom ROM that natively supports Google Play Services/Store/apps. Unlocking the bootloader opens the door to the full suite of ROMs including KitKat, Lollipop (CM 12.1) and Marshmallow (Nexus, CM13, ACIP) based builds.
Rooting/unlocking use to be scary/dangerous task best left to the geek club. While the process is not fully automated risk and effort have both declined. At present FireOS 4.5.5.2 is not directly rootable with Kingroot but it is only a matter of time before that changes. Likely just a few weeks as rival KingOroot (note the 'O') now offers this capability. If you are itching to get going it's relatively easy to roll back to 3.2.8 and root/unlock from there.
I'm not new to the scene, I've had my fair share with androids. Just new to hdx7, so what do I do?. This is the Amazon Kindle Fire C9R6QM HDX 7. I'm gonna use the KFHDX ToolKit v0.95 from what I've read is to disable OTA updates and run google play store. Should I completely flash to some stock android OS? Or can I keep it on the fire OS and it'll be stable? I don't want to go and brick this thing. It's running fire OS 4.5.5 which I read about and I guess is not useful? I saw a link to downgrade to 13.3.2.8, is that all I need? Just some quick help, thanks
Just to be clear all I want to do is install google playstore and disable OTA updates. What are the minimum steps I need to do this?
alright so I downgraded to 3.2.8 then -----> 3.5.2 is that ok? Or should I go back to 3.2.8?
I don't mind changing roms as long as I can make a backup and get to factory os
BatmanDC said:
I don't mind changing roms as long as I can make a backup and get to factory os
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is rather easy to unlock the bootloader which allows any HDX custom ROM to be installed. Is the device still on FireOS 3.2.8? If so I assume you have taken steps to maintain network isolation as the device WILL brick if an OTA update is received/processed. Post back current status; will go from there.
Davey126 said:
It is rather easy to unlock the bootloader which allows any HDX custom ROM to be installed. Is the device still on FireOS 3.2.8? If so I assume you have taken steps to maintain network isolation as the device WILL brick if an OTA update is received/processed. Post back current status; will go from there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
scratch that I now got a hdx 7 which has fire os 3.2.1, which I think is pretty good? Should I just follow the main guys steps to root it, disable auto updates and install google play store?
BatmanDC said:
scratch that I now got a hdx 7 which has fire os 3.2.1, which I think is pretty good? Should I just follow the main guys steps to root it, disable auto updates and install google play store?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Play Services/Store does not play nice with FireOS v3 or v4. Strongly recommend unlocking the bootloader and replacing FireOS with the ROM of your choosing (from those available for HDX devices).
Davey126 said:
Google Play Services/Store does not play nice with FireOS v3 or v4. Strongly recommend unlocking the bootloader and replacing FireOS with the ROM of your choosing (from those available for HDX devices).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
which rom do you recommend which is stable and vanilla looking? I'm used to nexus 5, 7 os. Also would I be able to save my current 3.2.1 OS and make a backup? So I would be able to return to stock if I wanted to?
BatmanDC said:
which rom do you recommend which is stable and vanilla looking? I'm used to nexus 5, 7 os. Also would I be able to save my current 3.2.1 OS and make a backup? So I would be able to return to stock if I wanted to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are two Nexus builds that are faithful representations of what you likely experienced on Google's Nexus devices. The KitKat varient (Fire Nexus ROM) is feature complete with full Bluetooth and LTE support. As with all custom ROMs for this device auxiliary radio support on Android 5+ becomes more challenging due to kernel compatibility issues. That said, all core ROMs are rock solid/stable and really unleash the full potential of this aging device which still competes well against contemporary counterparts.
hi , can you help please to root kindle fire hdv 7" 3rd generation , i tried many method , too old and unworking
thanks
recteurrr said:
hi , can you help please to root kindle fire hdv 7" 3rd generation , i tried many method , too old and unworking
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KingRoot is the best option assuming device is running FireOS v4 (post back if on v3; there's an easier method). Multiple attempts may be required along with a factory reset. KingRoot is unsophisticated beast that often reports failure when a root exploit is known to exist. If you opt to reset do not register device with Amazon during initilization as it can reduce the odds of a successful root.
If you aiming to install the Play Store be aware it will not work (well) as Google Play Services/Frwmework and FireOS v4 do not cooperate. You will need to unlock the bootloader and install a custom ROM first. Details here.
Be prepared for some long reads/nights and frustrating misfires. This is an aging device with limited support. Ask targeted questions as needed (might not get an immediate response). Don't expect hand holding or a scripted tutorial. If new to rooting and/or tethered operations you should probably consider another device.
What is the best custom rom for the Kindle Fire HDX 7 in your opinion? I am going to root mine which I know how to do already and I am just wondering what is the smoothest running for the HDX 7.
Davey126 said:
KingRoot is the best option assuming device is running FireOS v4 (post back if on v3; there's an easier method). Multiple attempts may be required along with a factory reset. KingRoot is unsophisticated beast that often reports failure when a root exploit is known to exist. If you opt to reset do not register device with Amazon during initilization as it can reduce the odds of a successful root.
If you aiming to install the Play Store be aware it will not work (well) as Google Play Services/Frwmework and FireOS v4 do not cooperate. You will need to unlock the bootloader and install a custom ROM first. Details here.
Be prepared for some long reads/nights and frustrating misfires. This is an aging device with limited support. Ask targeted questions as needed (might not get an immediate response). Don't expect hand holding or a scripted tutorial. If new to rooting and/or tethered operations you should probably consider another device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heatherb90 said:
What is the best custom rom for the Kindle Fire HDX 7 in your opinion? I am going to root mine which I know how to do already and I am just wondering what is the smoothest running for the HDX 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe your device is currently running a KitKat build of Fire Nexus. Doesn't get much smoother than that. However, if you desire a more contemporary UI any of the Nougat builds should work fine. I'm partial to LineageOS but don't interpret that as a ding against the others. Note: you will need to unlock the bootloader to use any of the Nougat based ROMs; root is not sufficient. Also note Fire Nexus is already rooted.
I am referring to my other Kindle Fire HDX 7 that has never been rooted. I have two they are my kids' kindles. The one that you helped me fix is running Thor. The other that I am considering rooting is running the latest update to the Kindle Fire OS for the HDX 7 which is 4.5.5.1. My son wants Google play on it but I was able to add a bunch of his favorite apps from Google Play onto it using Dropbox and transfering the APKs from his phone to his kindle with Astro and all the apps we transferred worked except Mario Run which requires Google Play Services. If I can keep him happy with it the way it is I am not going to root it but if I decide to I was just curious which was the most preferred.
I appreciate all your help!! You help all us noobs on this site for nothing and use your free time to answer our questions even when some of them are especially annoying or redundant and I am sure not just me but all of us on the forum really appreciates what you do!! YOU ROCK!! :good:
Davey126 said:
I believe your device is currently running a KitKat build of Fire Nexus. Doesn't get much smoother than that. However, if you desire a more contemporary UI any of the Nougat builds should work fine. I'm partial to LineageOS but don't interpret that as a ding against the others. Note: you will need to unlock the bootloader to use any of the Nougat based ROMs; root is not sufficient. Also note Fire Nexus is already rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heatherb90 said:
I appreciate all your help!! You help all us noobs on this site for nothing and use your free time to answer our questions even when some of them are especially annoying or redundant and I am sure not just me but all of us on the forum really appreciates what you do!! YOU ROCK!! :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the kind works. I am a big fan of "if it ain't broke don't fix it". Queue collective gasp from die-hard tinkerers. If you son can get by with his device the way it is leave it alone. You'll both be happier for it.
Heatherb90 said:
What is the best custom rom for the Kindle Fire HDX 7 in your opinion? I am going to root mine which I know how to do already and I am just wondering what is the smoothest running for the HDX 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
how do you do to root your kindle
recteurrr said:
how do you do to root your kindle
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/general/thor-4-5-5-2-easy-to-root-unlock-t3571240