I just inherited a 3rd Gen Kindle Fire HDX 7" that is running latest firmware (4.5.5). I am a newb to Kindle but not Android devices
I want to run some apk not available in Amazon Apps (Guitar apps) . Is there a way to root this newest firmway to get google play store as well as Amazon's store. If not, can I side load APKS if I have them. I was surprised to see when I connected to my computer, I couldn't access directories - Is therer a way to access the system directories to sideload apks or do I need to email them/dropbox them etc?
Just not sure what I can do withthe 4.5.5 firmware as it seems like the latest updates are hard to modify.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Michael
guitar1969 said:
I just inherited a 3rd Gen Kindle Fire HDX 7" that is running latest firmware (4.5.5). I am a newb to Kindle but not Android devices
I want to run some apk not available in Amazon Apps (Guitar apps) . Is there a way to root this newest firmway to get google play store as well as Amazon's store. If not, can I side load APKS if I have them. I was surprised to see when I connected to my computer, I couldn't access directories - Is therer a way to access the system directories to sideload apks or do I need to email them/dropbox them etc?
Just not sure what I can do withthe 4.5.5 firmware as it seems like the latest updates are hard to modify.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Michael
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can obtain root and run different roms but the process is tedious and carries some risk. Basic steps: rollback to 3.2.8 -> upgrade to 4.5.2 -> root; block OTA -> install Safestrap v4 -> flash Nexus v4 or CM11. Each step takes time to research and instructions must be followed carefully to avoid an unrecoverable brick (especially during rollback). Kindles in general and HDX models in particular are easy to kill and nearly impossible to recover once they go belly up.
FireOS does allow for the installation of alternative market places (eg: 1mobile) and sideloading apps. Most apps work reasonably well although there can be problems as Amazon heavily customized AOSP Andriod as you can tell from the FireOS UI. Installing Google Play services/store is a significant challenge that tends to break easily and be full of compromises. Given the choice most HDX users will go for another rom vs fighting with a FrankenKindle comprised of Amazon/FireOS and Google components.
Best way to begin is start reading through the forums. There are no step-by-step guides although some individual posts contain a wealth of information. As you become more familiar with the procedures ask targeted questions. You'll generally get a prompt response if you have done your homework first. Good luck.
Davey126 said:
You can obtain root and run different roms but the process is tedious and carries some risk. Basic steps: rollback to 3.2.8 -> upgrade to 4.5.2 -> root; block OTA -> install Safestrap v4 -> flash Nexus v4 or CM11. Each step takes time to research and instructions must be followed carefully to avoid an unrecoverable brick (especially during rollback). Kindles in general and HDX models in particular are easy to kill and nearly impossible to recover once they go belly up.
FireOS does allow for the installation of alternative market places (eg: 1mobile) and sideloading apps. Most apps work reasonably well although there can be problems as Amazon heavily customized AOSP Andriod as you can tell from the FireOS UI. Installing Google Play services/store is a significant challenge that tends to break easily and be full of compromises. Given the choice most HDX users will go for another rom vs fighting with a FrankenKindle comprised of Amazon/FireOS and Google components.
Best way to begin is start reading through the forums. There are no step-by-step guides although some individual posts contain a wealth of information. As you become more familiar with the procedures ask targeted questions. You'll generally get a prompt response if you have done your homework first. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I am able to sideload apps from my Android phone, but have issues with some of my apps that I have license keys for only on Google Play and my Google account.
I am actually not interested in running custom ROMs, just acquiring Root on 4.5.5. From all that I have read, Root is not possible on 4.5.5 as of yet.
guitar1969 said:
Thanks, I am able to sideload apps from my Android phone, but have issues with some of my apps that I have license keys for only on Google Play and my Google account.
I am actually not interested in running custom ROMs, just acquiring Root on 4.5.5. From all that I have read, Root is not possible on 4.5.5 as of yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct. But you can obtain root on 4.5.2 and there is a bumpy path from 4.5.5 -> 4.5.2. I am not advocating that choice (quite the opposite) but stating for clarity. From a feature/functionality/stability perspective there is very little difference between subversions in the 4.5.x series through 4.5.5.
How do i downgrade my kindle fire to get root access or do i need to use fireroot?
thanks
50pounds said:
How do i downgrade my kindle fire to get root access or do i need to use fireroot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This marks the second reference to 'fireroot' in less than a week. For the benefit of the poster any anyone else who may may stumble across this: fireroot does not work on HDX models and will likely brick the device.
To obtain root you must rollback to 3.2.8, upgrade to 4.5.2 and then use Kingroot or another proven method. The rollback is risky; those who choose this path should fully understand the procedure and follow directions carefully to avoid trashing their device. Note 4th gen 8.9" models (Saturn) can not be rolled back; there is no root option at present.
3.2.8 rollback discussion thread here. Spend some time reading before taking action. There are no scripts, videos or step-by-step noob guides. Post questions if unsure.
Cheers dave sorted it now ?
Related
Hey guys, I've been looking for one ROM that has both the Amazon infrastructure with the ability to have the Google play store without having to reflash. Are there any known ROMs that have basically the stock OS with play store integration?
This is mainly a few step question, if none exist, is there any reason why and what technical limitations are there?
If there is one, what do you recommend?
If one is not yet out, but is in development are there any you'd recommend me to follow?
If there are no good answers to either of the two questions above, are there any close secondary options?
Any other information about this would be helpful too. I'm still learning how ROMs work once the Kindle is rooted.
Additional Info: I have a HDX 7"
Due to a locked bootloader, signed kernel, and the rest there are no "ROM" per se for HDX series. Just mods for the factory ROM.
To create a dual-use setup is actually quite easy:
1) Root
2) Install SuperSU
3) Install Safestrap
4) Backup stock ROM in Safestrap
5) "Restore" the backup you just did into a "ROM slot"
6) Run HDX Utility on it, which will setup everything for you, including Xposed and HDXposed and all the rest
kschang said:
Due to a locked bootloader, signed kernel, and the rest there are no "ROM" per se for HDX series. Just mods for the factory ROM.
To create a dual-use setup is actually quite easy:
1) Root
2) Install SuperSU
3) Install Safestrap
4) Backup stock ROM in Safestrap
5) "Restore" the backup you just did into a "ROM slot"
6) Run HDX Utility on it, which will setup everything for you, including Xposed and HDXposed and all the rest
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, sool, I actually already had it rooted once with safestrap and SuperSu, but I had to remove and unroot and factory reset due to some issues. I can always re-root it. I had another question, is it possible to only root the device, keep everything stock, and then just install the play store and the framework needed to support it?
But that's exactly what I described: a dual-use setup. You get both Gapps AND Amazon, together. You can even choose to run either the substitute launcher (Launcher 3 by default) or Amazon's Carousel launcher. (or both). (Xposed framework is needed to installed HDXposed, which "patches" Amazon Fire OS to make it cooperate with Gapps)
There's only one catch... You can't access the Kindle books directly from regular launcher. You have to go through the Carousel launcher.
kschang said:
But that's exactly what I described: a dual-use setup. You get both Gapps AND Amazon, together. You can even choose to run either the substitute launcher (Launcher 3 by default) or Amazon's Carousel launcher. (or both). (Xposed framework is needed to installed HDXposed, which "patches" Amazon Fire OS to make it cooperate with Gapps)
There's only one catch... You can't access the Kindle books directly from regular launcher. You have to go through the Carousel launcher.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah ok thanks. I will be looking into it. I am still figuring out the HDX and what exactly rooting does. I know it gives you increased permissions over the device but I'm not sure what effects it has on the rest. I will be reading more into it. Are there any good comprehensive guides on rooting kindles and info on it? I know how to root, but not sure the details of what is going on behind the scenes. Googling has only been marginally helpful.
Rooting lets you install Safestrap, so if you screw up the setup you won't affect the "original" boot (i.e. stock ROM), but instead, operate on "ROM Slots", which are CLONES of the original ROM, modified whichever way you like.
I am reading the site the last couple of hours, and I can't find a step by step for Root. I can't Enable ADB because it is not there! So I guess the method for HD is not working? Please help me and sorry if it was asked, but I can't find it,
You can't root 4.5.3, you have to roll back to 3.2.8 (and root it, plus you can install Safestrap on that build and use the Nexus 1.0.1 ROM which is Jelly Bean but that's as far as you go) and then upgrade to 4.5.2 which is still rootable with the CVE exploit.
But with 4.5.3 you're stuck, and with 4.5.4 around the corner there's a chance that update could totally block all rooting period so, be aware of this - stay away from 4.5.4 (when it becomes available) if there's even a potential update or as long as you can, and within reason roll back to 3.2.8 then bump it to 4.5.2, root that build then disable the OTA capability and go from there.
To get ADB, go into Settings, Device, Serial Number - Tap Serial Number 7 times which gives you the Developer Options (just like tapping the build number in normal Android does). Once you have them (go back a menu) you can then enable ADB from there.
But again, the recommendation is to get off 4.5.3 (at least it's my recommendation if you want any possible root at all) as soon as possible.
The instructions are here, I just got an HDX on Wednesday and I've learned quite a bit in the past 48 hours or so (no that doesn't mean I've been lurking/reading/posting for the past 48 hours, of course). It's not that tough, but it does require actual reading with comprehension and not just skimming topics or barely reading the posts in threads.
atti_mac said:
I am reading the site the last couple of hours, and I can't find a step by step for Root. I can't Enable ADB because it is not there! So I guess the method for HD is not working? Please help me and sorry if it was asked, but I can't find it,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In addition to the comments from br0adband be aware adding gapps (Google Play Services, Store, etc) to Fire OS can be problematic as you can not completely purge the device of Amazon equivalents. It works but not without some annoyances. At present there is a broader issue with the current release of Google Play Services (v7.3)that is impacting a wide swath of devices including many rooted Kindles. Google will likely issue a fix but they do not seem in any hurry to do so.
A rooted HDX running Fire OS 4.x isn't like other Android devices. Root helps you get around some Amazon annoyances and add addition capabilities but it's nothing like pure Android. Even simple things like changing wallpaper can be a hassle.
If you want to move forward w/root see this post for further instructions.
Davey126 said:
In addition to the comments from br0adband be aware adding gapps (Google Play Services, Store, etc) to Fire OS can be problematic as you can not completely purge the device of Amazon equivalents. It works but not without some annoyances. At present there is a broader issue with the current release of Google Play Services (v7.3)that is impacting a wide swath of devices including many rooted Kindles. Google will likely issue a fix but they do not seem in any hurry to do so.
A rooted HDX running Fire OS 4.x isn't like other Android devices. Root helps you get around some Amazon annoyances and add addition capabilities but it's nothing like pure Android. Even simple things like changing wallpaper can be a hassle.
If you want to move forward w/root see this post for further instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It said : "Put roolback file into the Internal storage folder of your Kindle." !
I downloaded a "mod-update-kindle-thor-13.3.2.8_user_713328020" folder and i have no idea where I have to copy it. I just did it to a main folder put it between the "Kindle" and "Movies" but it doesn't do anything when I want to do an update. Without wifi, didn't even start.
UPDATE, just realized i had to copy a "bin" file not a folder version. So now is downgrading. How to root 3.2.8? should i update to 4.5.2 first and root or root the 3.2.8?
update
I was able to downgrade , and upgrade to 4.5.2, rooted, and I was able to follow the other guides to disable OTA updates.
But when I try to install the Google play apps, it said at step 1 "aquire the GApps.."http://forum.xda-developers.com/kindle-fire-hdx/general/tut-disable-ota-4-5-2-install-gapps-t3043550
So when I followed the link , it takes me here :http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/gapps-google-apps-minimal-edition-t2943330
And Step 2 Boot into recovery to able to install Zip file....
I can't boot in recovery, the step by step guide said power on, and when i will see the "kindle fire" hold the power till turns blue and let it go. Mine newer turns blue just orange and if I let the power go nothing happen.
Will you guys help? I am so close!
Do not do the recovery instructions. Grab the file from the link and follow the instructions from this forum. If you are rooted, be very careful with stock recovery.
The spoiler is instead of installing the zip, unzip it and copy many of the files to their respective folders. Skip priv/app/ setupwizard.apk and priv/app/prebuiltgmscore.apk. install the gms core as a normal app and you are good to go... almost. Look around the HDX general threads for a fix to prevent google play services updating themselves.
Good luck
Sent from my KFTHWI using Tapatalk
a chinese root toolkit named Kingroot seems able to support Fire OS 4.5.3 now. Several guys tested it and succeeded.
but it contians a su manager named KingUser from the same company. if anybody can install SuperSU instead, you can have a try.
some one dont understand chinese? PM me, i can help.
BTW. Personally, I never recommend Chinese APPs from chinese companies. They use the APPs/Softwares to play a role as thief to steal your information, contacts, maybe more. And they always ask for more permissions.
For economic benefits, they can do anything.
FotixChiang said:
a chinese root toolkit named Kingroot seems able to support Fire OS 4.5.3 now. Several guys tested it and succeeded.
but it contians a su manager named KingUser from the same company. if anybody can install SuperSU instead, you can have a try.
some one dont understand chinese? PM me, i can help.
BTW. Personally, I never recommend Chinese APPs from chinese companies. They use the APPs/Softwares to play a role as thief to steal your information, contacts, maybe more. And they always ask for more permissions.
For economic benefits, they can do anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI recieved OTA 4.5.4 and it breaks root. Kingroot 4.1 no longer works.
koda1789 said:
FYI recieved OTA 4.5.4 and it breaks root. Kingroot 4.1 no longer works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Must be a lucky day that I've just rooted 4.5.3 with Kingroot and disabled OTA today :fingers-crossed:
koda1789 said:
FYI recieved OTA 4.5.4 and it breaks root. Kingroot 4.1 no longer works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unbelievable. Had an HDX 7" with 13.3.1.0, rooted, was ready to unlock bootloader and install CM12. Received a surprise visit, and when I got back to my desk I was on 4.5.4...
Bad day...
Well, it could be worse, you could have gotten bricked during the update.
Davey126 said:
In addition to the comments from br0adband be aware adding gapps (Google Play Services, Store, etc) to Fire OS can be problematic as you can not completely purge the device of Amazon equivalents. It works but not without some annoyances. At present there is a broader issue with the current release of Google Play Services (v7.3)that is impacting a wide swath of devices including many rooted Kindles. Google will likely issue a fix but they do not seem in any hurry to do so.
A rooted HDX running Fire OS 4.x isn't like other Android devices. Root helps you get around some Amazon annoyances and add addition capabilities but it's nothing like pure Android. Even simple things like changing wallpaper can be a hassle.
If you want to move forward w/root see this post for further instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Watch this video to fix that issue with Google Play Services...
[Fix] - Play store and COC not Working on Kindle …: https://youtu.be/7RxuP9X3Mgo
Ali Ejea Mc said:
Watch this video to fix that issue with Google Play Services...
[Fix] - Play store and COC not Working on Kindle …: https://youtu.be/7RxuP9X3Mgo
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
Another option now exists for locked devices that involves replacing FireOS with Nexus which natively supports the Play store. See: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3137840
I now have a second Thor, and it's on 3.0.5. What kind of things can I do to this?
fdigl said:
I now have a second Thor, and it's on 3.0.5. What kind of things can I do to this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some suggestions:
-root and block OTA with HDX toolkit (link)
-install TWRP
-update bootloader to 3.2.3 (link)
-ROMS: Nexus 2.0.5 or CM11
-optional: unlock bootloader (thread)
-ROMS: as above plus CM12
Unlocking the bootloader is the most involved but opens additional options and (more importantly) offers a more robust recovery capability should things go wrong.
Most important thing you can do now is 1) stay off WiFi until OTA is effectively blocked; and 2) read, read and read some more. You've likely seen numerous 'brick' posts. Most were the result of rushed actions and/or incomplete research. Do your homework and ask questions along the way. Good luck.
Davey126 said:
Some suggestions:
-root and block OTA with HDX toolkit (link)
-install TWRP
-update bootloader to 3.2.3 (link)
-ROMS: Nexus 2.0.5 or CM11
-optional: unlock bootloader (thread)
-ROMS: as above plus CM12
Unlocking the bootloader is the most involved but opens additional options and (more importantly) offers a more robust recovery capability should things go wrong.
Most important thing you can do now is 1) stay off WiFi until OTA is effectively blocked; and 2) read, read and read some more. You've likely seen numerous 'brick' posts. Most were the result of rushed actions and/or incomplete research. Do your homework and ask questions along the way. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! In Xposed Installer, the framework section is just blank white. No buttons or dropdowns, just white. Everything else in the app appears normal. I can't install the framework for HDXposed.
fdigl said:
Thanks! In Xposed Installer, the framework section is just blank white. No buttons or dropdowns, just white. Everything else in the app appears normal. I can't install the framework for HDXposed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HDXposed is not on the list. There is no need for this module as it has long been depreciated and of questionable value given more current alternatives. Strongly suggest not installing stuff or traveling your own path. Also recommend uninstalling Xposed framework and any other 'system' level hacks/utilities until your devices is otherwise upgraded and stable. Just asking for trouble ...
While I have the pulpit don't mess with build.prop or any system file other than OTAcerts (even that can be avoided). If you are following a guide that indicates one/both should be modified you're in the wrong place. Post a question; someone will help you get back on track.
Davey126 said:
HDXposed is not on the list. There is no need for this module as it has long been depreciated and of questionable value given more current alternatives. Strongly suggest not installing stuff or traveling your own path. Also recommend uninstalling Xposed framework and any other 'system' level hacks/utilities until your devices is otherwise upgraded and stable. Just asking for trouble ...
While I have the pulpit don't mess with build.prop or any system file other than OTAcerts (even that can be avoided). If you are following a guide that indicates one/both should be modified you're in the wrong place. Post a question; someone will help you get back on track.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, thanks for the info!
Anyways, I have Android Market working but Play Store just crashes while opening. I have the same version of Play Store running on the older Thor, but not this one. It just stops working, but behind the dialogue I can see another one under it, likely the Play Store agreement, but it closes when I close the stopped working dialogue. This makes Play Store unusable.
fdigl said:
Oh, thanks for the info!
Anyways, I have Android Market working but Play Store just crashes while opening. I have the same version of Play Store running on the older Thor, but not this one. It just stops working, but behind the dialogue I can see another one under it, likely the Play Store agreement, but it closes when I close the stopped working dialogue. This makes Play Store unusable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Play Store works great on the three roms previously mentioned while various issues keep cropping up using it with Fire OS. I suggest you flash TWRP, the 3.2.3 bootloader update and Nexus 2.05. Each is relatively low risk (given your favorable starting point; many would love to have that device!) if you follow directions. In the end I think you will be much happier with the overall experience. Perhaps someone else can help if you want to continue with Fire OS 3.x and sideload gapps.
Davey126 said:
Play Store works great on the three roms previously mentioned while various issues keep cropping up using it with Fire OS. I suggest you flash TWRP, the 3.2.3 bootloader update and Nexus 2.05. Each is relatively low risk (given your favorable starting point; many would love to have that device!) if you follow directions. In the end I think you will be much happier with the overall experience. Perhaps someone else can help if you want to continue with Fire OS 3.x and sideload gapps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have Safestrap 3.72 on there, does that count as TWRP? Despite this, I'd prefer to keep Fire OS on here.
To get gapps working on fire is, look at the version of google play services. Some people have no problems. I am running 7.0.99 I think.
fdigl said:
I have Safestrap 3.72 on there, does that count as TWRP? Despite this, I'd prefer to keep Fire OS on here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. TWRP in Safestrap does not operate in 'native' mode. If you prefer Fire OS then your options are limited:
- create another slot in Safestrap and install Nexus 1.0.5 (note different version number) which offers full Play Store support. Make sure you preserve your existing copy of Fire OS in the base slot; bad things happen if it gets trashed. You can then toggle between Fire OS and Nexus although the two roms can not share applications (they operate independently)
- continue wrestling Play Store (and other Google components) on Fire OS 3.x.
- permit your device to upgrade to the version 4.x of Fire OS which is a modest improvement over 3.x. You will be faced with the same headaches getting Google Components to play nice with Fire OS but you will likely receive better community support. Please note this is a one way trip. Once you go beyond 3.2.6 you can not make the modifications required to run most non-Amazon roms like CM11/12.
Davey126 said:
Nope. TWRP in Safestrap does not operate in 'native' mode. If you prefer Fire OS then your options are limited:
- create another slot in Safestrap and install Nexus 1.0.5 (note different version number) which offers full Play Store support. Make sure you preserve your existing copy of Fire OS in the base slot; bad things happen if it gets trashed. You can then toggle between Fire OS and Nexus although the two roms can not share applications (they operate independently)
- continue wrestling Play Store (and other Google components) on Fire OS 3.x.
- permit your device to upgrade to the version 4.x of Fire OS which is a modest improvement over 3.x. You will be faced with the same headaches getting Google Components to play nice with Fire OS but you will likely receive better community support. Please note this is a one way trip. Once you go beyond 3.2.6 you can not make the modifications required to run most non-Amazon roms like CM11/12.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems that I got Play Store 4.6.17 to work, but I'm unable to download anything (will spam ANRs). In HDXposed, did the content provider fix have to do with any of this? I have it on the older Thor, but not on the new one. If it does, what would be the alternative way of applying that fix?
EDIT: Any version of Play Store is working, just unable to download/install from the store.
lekofraggle said:
To get gapps working on fire is, look at the version of google play services. Some people have no problems. I am running 7.0.99 I think.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know how to get GApps working, it's just Play Store that's acting up.
fdigl said:
I know how to get GApps working, it's just Play Store that's acting up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I meant play store. That is the problem most people are having. Take a look at the two threads in the general section.
Sent from my KFTHWI using Tapatalk
fdigl said:
Thanks! In Xposed Installer, the framework section is just blank white. No buttons or dropdowns, just white. Everything else in the app appears normal. I can't install the framework for HDXposed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What version of Xposed Installer are you using?
Davey126 said:
HDXposed is not on the list. There is no need for this module as it has long been depreciated and of questionable value given more current alternatives. Strongly suggest not installing stuff or traveling your own path. Also recommend uninstalling Xposed framework and any other 'system' level hacks/utilities until your devices is otherwise upgraded and stable. Just asking for trouble ...
While I have the pulpit don't mess with build.prop or any system file other than OTAcerts (even that can be avoided). If you are following a guide that indicates one/both should be modified you're in the wrong place. Post a question; someone will help you get back on track.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EncryptedCurse said:
What version of Xposed Installer are you using?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the latest, and v32 - the one that worked on my Thor on 3.2.5. The tablet in question is on 3.0.5, but installed TWRP and the 3.2.3 boot loader zip was flashed.
My main device is a lovely 5thGen Fire (the $49 one), but I just got a used 2014 HD7 (model identifies as 4th Generation) as a secondary. It showed up on my doorstep already updated to 5.1.2. (I think when the previous owner did a wipe, 5.1.2 got dumped on it)
I'm not interested currently in rooting, removing ads, and can put up with the bloat if needed. ALL I really need essentially is a working Google Play store on this HD7-4th-Gen. If that's possible without rooting or backloading previous OS versions I mean.
Under earlier versions of the OS I know there were ways to put Play on without rooting. My question is if there are easy tested scripts or methods to get Play on and working that definitely work under 5.1.2, or do I have to finagle some earlier version of the OS onto the device and root just to get Play now?
Thanks.
(just in case it's relevant, I already have the Developer options turned on, ADB allowed, and ES File Explorer installed from the Amazon Store, figuring the most likely approach to getting Play on might involve one or more of those)
snark.shark said:
My main device is a lovely 5thGen Fire (the $49 one), but I just got a used 2014 HD7 (model identifies as 4th Generation) as a secondary. It showed up on my doorstep already updated to 5.1.2. (I think when the previous owner did a wipe, 5.1.2 got dumped on it)
I'm not interested currently in rooting, removing ads, and can put up with the bloat if needed. ALL I really need essentially is a working Google Play store on this HD7-4th-Gen. If that's possible without rooting or backloading previous OS versions I mean.
Under earlier versions of the OS I know there were ways to put Play on without rooting. My question is if there are easy tested scripts or methods to get Play on and working that definitely work under 5.1.2, or do I have to finagle some earlier version of the OS onto the device and root just to get Play now?
Thanks.
(just in case it's relevant, I already have the Developer options turned on, ADB allowed, and ES File Explorer installed from the Amazon Store, figuring the most likely approach to getting Play on might involve one or more of those)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your best bet is to go to the Gen 5 XDA forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire
The devices are literally identical if you want rootless GAPPS. So look for what's offered there.
The 4th gen is actually very lucky because it's possible to sideload FireOS 4, get TWRP, and be off to the races (no downgrade bricking if going to 4.5.3). For 5th gen, if you upgraded from 5.0.1, your options shrink considerably.
bibikalka said:
Your best bet is to go to the Gen 5 XDA forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire
The devices are literally identical if you want rootless GAPPS. So look for what's offered there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They've pointed me right back here to this forum when I asked there.
I can't be the only person with a 4th Gen HD7 where it's been updated to 5.1.2 who JUST wants Google Play. That 5.1.2 update was pushed out to the 4th Gen devices in February, according to the System Updates screen on the device, so that's why a month later I'm thinking it's probable SOMEONE else out there has tried this. I just hope they see this thread.
Worst case I will go through the OS backdate and rooting stuff, but that actually seems like a heck of a lot more work (and risk) if a simpler approach to just get Play works. The key for me is just finding out if it really DOES work and which tools it works with. Is it as simple as tracking down an running an APK file for Play, or has there always been more involved (changing other background files or permissions)? And again, if someone has already done this work for 5.1.2 and HD74th Gen, where it's been documented.
I guess I'll give this a few days to sit here and see what pops up, and resort to the root approach if nobody comes along with info by then.
snark.shark said:
They've pointed me right back here to this forum when I asked there.
I can't be the only person with a 4th Gen HD7 where it's been updated to 5.1.2 who JUST wants Google Play. That 5.1.2 update was pushed out to the 4th Gen devices in February, according to the System Updates screen on the device, so that's why a month later I'm thinking it's probable SOMEONE else out there has tried this. I just hope they see this thread.
Worst case I will go through the OS backdate and rooting stuff, but that actually seems like a heck of a lot more work (and risk) if a simpler approach to just get Play works. The key for me is just finding out if it really DOES work and which tools it works with. Is it as simple as tracking down an running an APK file for Play, or has there always been more involved (changing other background files or permissions)? And again, if someone has already done this work for 5.1.2 and HD74th Gen, where it's been documented.
I guess I'll give this a few days to sit here and see what pops up, and resort to the root approach if nobody comes along with info by then.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most of the people here are strictly volunteers, and usually work on things that are of personal interest or of broad general value. With Fire HDs 4th gen we are lucky that easy root was available since May 2015. So all the guides go through root because it's the most general and convenient way to customize the stock OS.
5th gen Fires had a bit of lag to get root, so people developed ways to get GAPPS installed under FireOS 5 without root. Also, the user base there is a lot bigger, so more people were looking into this. You'll have to do a big of research to find scripts that install only GAPPS, and do not try any of the Gen 5 specific tricks. Right now FireOS 5.1.2 has identical versions for both 4th and 5th gen, so any general FireOS 5 tricks would work on both generations.
So instead of being very surprised that nobody met your exact need, just do your research on the 5th gen forum, and when you find a script that works (as is or perhaps customized by you), do come back and post it here for future reference !
Good luck
snark.shark said:
I can't be the only person with a 4th Gen HD7 where it's been updated to 5.1.2 who JUST wants Google Play.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, here is your solution.
Option 1, try the classic :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/installing-google-framework-playstore-t3216122
Just run the script in Amazon-Fire-5th-Gen-Install-Play-Store.zip , if it comes to worst, a factory reset will get you right back.
Option 2
Go here, follow the instructions to get adb talking to your Fire (drivers & all), make sure adb works:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-playstore-busybox-optimize-flash-t3281804
Download the AutoRootScriptv4.14NODEBLOAT.zip file, unpack. In a DOS window, navigate to this unpacked WindowsAutoRootFire. DO NOT RUN THE BAT FILE !!!
Instead, type the commands :
Code:
adb install com.google.android.gms-6.6.03_(1681564-036)-6603036-minAPI9.apk
adb install GoogleLoginService.apk
adb install GoogleServicesFramework.apk
adb shell pm grant com.google.android.gms android.permission.INTERACT_ACROSS_USERS
adb install com.android.vending-5.9.12-80391200-minAPI9.apk
Launch Google Play Store.
thx
Does someone have an easier to follow guide for rooting and installing the Play store on a 4th gen Fire HD 7?
I've looked through a couple of the stickied guides and they're full of a lot of hard work and information but they're (IMO, and no offense) a little bit all unorganized/hard to follow/confusing, and seems a lot of it is outdated info now, since there are newer versions of Fire OS. They also assume you know the basics, which I don't. I've done similar things to other devices in the past but there were easy to follow guides.
If not, what are the basic steps I would need to specifically follow, if I want to update to the newest that still allows root?
Also what would updated in the future involve the same steps? I plan to give the FHD to my father. But I guess it would be OK if it stayed on the same OS version from here on out. Or, after installing Play, does it not require root anymore, to run Play, thus OTA updates would still work (which breaks root I think)?
This FHD has 4.5.5. I've enabled ADB on the FHD
I can't see the FHD's system folder (to disable OTA) through Windows Explorer. Does Android Studio have to be installed to do that? Android Studio requires the bloated Java to be installed, which I'd rather not do if possible.
Thanks
I just posted this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-hd/general/root-os-5-1-2-kingroot-tools-play-store-t3371824. If it's too hard, please give me some feedback.
DoLooper said:
I just posted this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-hd/general/root-os-5-1-2-kingroot-tools-play-store-t3371824. If it's too hard, please give me some feedback.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sounds like this package is everything you need to make it a android feel.