Related
Hey guys,
Justa few quick questions ...
Is there an application or something that will log all the apps I have downloaded via my account and list them for me, so when I do a backup I knwo what I had before?
Is there an app to list the above AND download the latest versions without me having to manually do anything (Shashimi for Android).
I have loads of text on my Tytn is there an easy way to back these up in a rar file or something. I don't want to import them to the desire just store them.
I sue S2U2, I like the Android lock screen BUT I like being able to view my texts/emails without unlocking the device, what options do I have?
Lastly, is there an app to automatically backup your text on a weekly basis and email it to your gmail as an archive? I want it to also ignore the previous week's text.
Am I asking too much L.o.L.?
O and O said:
Hey guys,
Justa few quick questions ...
Is there an application or something that will log all the apps I have downloaded via my account and list them for me, so when I do a backup I knwo what I had before?
Is there an app to list the above AND download the latest versions without me having to manually do anything (Shashimi for Android).
I have loads of text on my Tytn is there an easy way to back these up in a rar file or something. I don't want to import them to the desire just store them.
I sue S2U2, I like the Android lock screen BUT I like being able to view my texts/emails without unlocking the device, what options do I have?
Lastly, is there an app to automatically backup your text on a weekly basis and email it to your gmail as an archive? I want it to also ignore the previous week's text.
Am I asking too much L.o.L.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have an Android phone yet ...and won't do until 7/8/9-April... but playing with my wife's Hero this is what I know...
You seem to have to create a level of Google account in orpder to purchase from Android Market and logging into your Google Account and going to Android Market will bring up a list of your previously downloaded apps.
I haven't found a stand alone app for this but purchasing your apps through AppBrain.com and using their AppBrain app seems to do what your asking. AppBrain doesn't seem to list all apps though - definitely missing UK specific apps such as Beebplayer.
I've had WinMo phones for the past 8 years and never heard of a facility to do this - if there is one I'd be chuffed to hear about it myself.
Dunno - someone else will have to answer this one I'm afraid
I believe that most backup apps will do a scheduled backup - Sprite Backup definitely does but to the SD Card only (no automailer), but WRT ignoring previously backed up messages I've not heard of this feature in any backup app.
I hope this helps to some extent.
Is there an application or something that will log all the apps I have downloaded via my account and list them for me, so when I do a backup I know what I had before?
aTrackDog / AppBrain
Is there an app to list the above AND download the latest versions without me having to manually do anything (Shashimi for Android).
AppBrain allows you to create lists on their site, so when you change phones or wipe it, you can tell it to reinstall the whole list. I did that when I moved from G1 to Desire -- worked like a charm.
I have loads of text on my Tytn is there an easy way to back these up in a rar file or something. I don't want to import them to the desire just store them.
You should ask that in TyTN forum
I sue S2U2, I like the Android lock screen BUT I like being able to view my texts/emails without unlocking the device, what options do I have?
Flyscreen
Lastly, is there an app to automatically backup your text on a weekly basis and email it to your gmail as an archive? I want it to also ignore the previous week's text.
SMS backup
P.S. sorry, I was lazy and did not include links -- google is your friend
O and O said:
Hey guys,
Justa few quick questions ...
I have loads of text on my Tytn is there an easy way to back these up in a rar file or something. I don't want to import them to the desire just store them.
Am I asking too much L.o.L.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can store all your text messages online with Microsoft My Phone or else store them on your PC.
See also this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4713257&postcount=2
FabianNL said:
You can store all your text messages online with Microsoft My Phone or else store them on your PC.
See also this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4713257&postcount=2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANKS ALL!
Will have a look at this FabianNL as if I can export to individual files then I will be happy. To be honest it isn't a big deal .
Been playing with my Desire for a while, I can see the appeal of Android it's quick, big buttons, keyboard isn't back considering I'm coming from Tytn (as well as a Touch HD but that was BAD).
My next step is ... what programs should I "replace"? I'm refering to applications like mail, text/messages, etc the build in ones.
I am though over the moon with the device the text input ROCKS! I do have a list of applications I need suggestions on though ... I'm used to the following on Windows Phone so I need an Android variation ...
G-Alarm - A Comprehensive alarm application
G-Profile - easily change my profiles from night, work, home, etc, this would be great as a widget
Task Facade - A general task manager that will show all my running applications and let me close/switch
Wake On Text/Email/etc - As it says ... and stay awake until message has been read!
Lock Without using Power button - easy ...
That's about it for now
I use Klaxon for my alarms.
SMS Popup will turn on the screen when you get text messages (not sure if there is similar for emails) and can give reminders untill it's read.
As far as profiles, then would HTC's Scenes not do the trick? Failing this Locale can automagically turn on and off services and silent/loud the ringer based on various criteria like time and location.
You can easily switch to recent apps by pressing and holding the home key
And there are loads of Task Managers on the market for killing running apps
What does sense have for managing profiles?
Hi,
I would like replace my TyTn II to HTC Desire but Im not shure if I will be happy with Desire(Android)...
Main things which wory me are:
1.)Synchronization with PC with USB cable. I DON'T want and will not sync with google account. All I need is same automatic sync line with activesync. I need sync Contacts, Calendar, Emails(Configure which folders), Task's, Notes. Sync will be done with MS Outlook 2007/2010.
2.)Is possible set more than one email account? I need 3x pop3/smtp email accounts.
3.)Is possible disable threaded SMS/MMS? I realy hate this function.
4.)Is there any app which allow connet to windows remote desktop(RDP and not any 3rd party VNC or other)?
5.)Is there some app/pack which can work with word, excel, power point files?
6.)Does included browser support certificates? I know that opera mobile on WinMo do not support it, so I can't manage cPanel server, make payments(bank)...
I think that this is enought for start
Thanks for any help and answers.
Best regards, _Dejan_
I am currently using a Topaz windows mobile based phone, and thinking about switching to a Desire.
However, I use my phone extensively for business, and need to know if there are some things that Android will allow.
First off, I need to be able to access my home network with the wireless. Currently I use Resco explorer, browse to my server share, and copy the files I will need to the SD card. Is this possible on Android? Is it just as easy? I often have to do this first thing in the morning, when I don't have a lot of time. This is an absolute deal breaker for me, so I am really looking for some help before I commit to a new phone.
Non show stoppers but nice to have;
Cookie's Home Tab type display , which allows me to show my next 3 calendar appointments, and 3 tasks on the home screen. Will Sense allow this on the Desire? I like the Sense interface and widgets, so would prefer to keep Sense, but am prepared to apply additional software to allow me to do what I need to. (Paid or otherwise).
The ability to map hardware keys to specific functions (eg I currently have long press on the back key to switch off my wifi. Handy for in the car, when I forget to switch it off).
Ability to edit open office, and ms office documents.
That's it I guess. Any and all feedback very much appreciated.
1) yes you can browse files on your home network using the desire, you need 3rd party software tho also there are apps that will let you controll your pc and or device remotlely from your device and or pc
2) there are loads of calendar widgets on the marketplace im sure one will take your fancy
3) the wifi will switch itself off after x amout of time idle
4) the desire comes with quick office out of the box but there are tons of office apps so yeah
Just a small warning if you think to sync your mobile with the PC (callendar, notes, mails, contacts) via bluetooth - it's not possible in android.
Well, not entirely true, as there is "Missing Sync" in the market, but costs for about $40 - a bit too much.
So, try to love your usb cable
Or sync through the google things and sync your home stuff with the google things. For me it's annoying as I hate the google things, but it does sort of work.
dysje said:
Or sync through the google things and sync your home stuff with the google things. For me it's annoying as I hate the google things, but it does sort of work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you buy a google thing-centric phone if you hate google things?
On it's way
Thanks guys, you've convinced me.
Ordered from O2 for the princely sum of £285 + VAT, which I thought was a mistake, but it seems not. Be rude not to at that price.
Bit of luck it will arrive tomorrow, as I'm not working, so can play all day
JohnSteveDoe said:
Why would you buy a google thing-centric phone if you hate google things?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to give one example - I would not want to share with google my company contacts.
Also I preffer to keep business calendar outside of google (with all the respect)
Regards
R
Sent from my ZX Spectrum using Froyo_zx81
remmyhi said:
Just to give one example - I would not want to share with google my company contacts.
Also I preffer to keep business calendar outside of google (with all the respect)
Regards
R
Sent from my ZX Spectrum using Froyo_zx81
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
brummiesteven said:
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol ..........
brummiesteven said:
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would they bother with your phone when they've got street view cars to access open WiFi networks?
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
Most people here swear by Astro file manager and their add ons.
Check out the Sense agenda widget for upcoming appointments and tasks.
Widgets are the way to go, Sense widgets for WiFi, mobile connectivity, airplane mode etc etc etc......
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
Thanks JabbaFat32.
Will check both of those out.
The desktop counterpart integrates with explorer and allows you to right click on any file ex docs and pictures and send it to your windows phone! I am not sure how secure the cloud storage is at the moment but this is some nice innovation for a free app.
Read more here: http://wpcentral.com/send-wp7-hits-back-desktop-app
You can compose texts, emails and notes on the desktop and send it to the phone as well. The application utilizes windows 7 jumplists and works almost instantaneously.
I'm impressed.
Cloud is the future. Resistance is futile.
Well, well, well...I guess if Microsoft wasn't going to step in and make SkyDrive play nice on WP7 (access through browser doesn't count if you cannot sync), then someone had to. I like where Send To WP7 is going. It is quite impressive indeed.
It's just a shame that Microsoft, who probably has more data centres than 98% of all corporations in the world, and is in the best position to promote cloud services ( like Windows Live ) is still lagging behind.
I'm the author of Send to WP7, if you have any other suggestions for ways you can send stuff to your phone, do let me know. I'm open to pretty much anything that's technically possibly without costing me an arm and a leg in infrastructure.
The main complaint in the current implementation is that it uploads to a public hosting site. Live Mesh and SkyDrive don't have suitable APIs for doing this, as I would very much like to tie everything into Windows Live. In order to be useful, the files need to be accessible via an HTTP URL, without requiring a cookie or authentication (HTTP auth may be acceptable, but it needs to be opened in the browser to have access to docs and PDFs.
Also do note that this is a preview quality build, I just figured some people may already want to start using it.
If only you could make a "Send From WP7" app...
The ability to send to other Windows Phones would be nice.
kapanak said:
If only you could make a "Send From WP7" app...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No APIs to let me do this, unfortunately.
karelj said:
The ability to send to other Windows Phones would be nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not so sure this is practical, you may as well just email a link, right? if you're talking about from the browser, using the bookmarklet for alternate phones is supported in all desktop browsers.
davux, i'm not sure if it's possible as you don't have socket support, but a possible way to get skydrive access to work is to pass windows phone through fiddler and work out what it does when it syncs a onenote note to skydrive. i'm pretty sure this would be socket base meaning you'd be stuck, but if it isn't, you may just have the information required to directly upload to skydrive, with proper credentials and all.
it's just an idea, but this is what i'd try as a developer (yes i am one, but no where near experienced enough at this stage).
The Gate Keeper said:
davux, i'm not sure if it's possible as you don't have socket support, but a possible way to get skydrive access to work is to pass windows phone through fiddler and work out what it does when it syncs a onenote note to skydrive. i'm pretty sure this would be socket base meaning you'd be stuck, but if it isn't, you may just have the information required to directly upload to skydrive, with proper credentials and all.
it's just an idea, but this is what i'd try as a developer (yes i am one, but no where near experienced enough at this stage).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can actually access SkyDrive via WebDAV already, which is an HTTP protocol. I suspect OneNote sync does something similar, but I haven't checked it out. The primary issue with this approach is that it won't be all that useful. Images and text would transfer well like this, but if you wanted to send a PDF, or Office doc, there would be no way to open it. The only way to open these types of docs is through the browser. I figured a really important use-case is documents, so I decided to take another approach.
BTW - the current build of the desktop app now supports uploading to localhostr.com, serving up files via a local HTTP server, and using your Dropbox account.
davux said:
I can actually access SkyDrive via WebDAV already, which is an HTTP protocol. I suspect OneNote sync does something similar, but I haven't checked it out. The primary issue with this approach is that it won't be all that useful. Images and text would transfer well like this, but if you wanted to send a PDF, or Office doc, there would be no way to open it. The only way to open these types of docs is through the browser. I figured a really important use-case is documents, so I decided to take another approach.
BTW - the current build of the desktop app now supports uploading to localhostr.com, serving up files via a local HTTP server, and using your Dropbox account.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for directly conversing with us Dave. I agree getting documents to the phone is the ideal usage of this application. Keep up the good work!
sayonical said:
The desktop counterpart integrates with explorer and allows you to right click on any file ex docs and pictures and send it to your windows phone! I am not sure how secure the cloud storage is at the moment but this is some nice innovation for a free app.
Read more here: http://wpcentral.com/send-wp7-hits-back-desktop-app
You can compose texts, emails and notes on the desktop and send it to the phone as well. The application utilizes windows 7 jumplists and works almost instantaneously.
I'm impressed.
Cloud is the future. Resistance is futile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just set it up. The push notifications are instant!!!
davux said:
I'm the author of Send to WP7, if you have any other suggestions for ways you can send stuff to your phone, do let me know. I'm open to pretty much anything that's technically possibly without costing me an arm and a leg in infrastructure.
The main complaint in the current implementation is that it uploads to a public hosting site. Live Mesh and SkyDrive don't have suitable APIs for doing this, as I would very much like to tie everything into Windows Live. In order to be useful, the files need to be accessible via an HTTP URL, without requiring a cookie or authentication (HTTP auth may be acceptable, but it needs to be opened in the browser to have access to docs and PDFs.
Also do note that this is a preview quality build, I just figured some people may already want to start using it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting stuff indeed. I for one, appreciate the work you are doing.
Wait a minute, you can use the Desktop app and upload to phone using your own local network? That is significantly easier to trust than a free cloud service.
kapanak said:
Wait a minute, you can use the Desktop app and upload to phone using your own local network? That is significantly easier to trust than a free cloud service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Unfortunately I can't make it an SSL connection, I'm not willing to pay for a cert. I will see if a test-signed certificate will work, but that is not actually as secure.
davux said:
Yes. Unfortunately I can't make it an SSL connection, I'm not willing to pay for a cert. I will see if a test-signed certificate will work, but that is not actually as secure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been trying out the desktop app with the local Wi-Fi method, and this seems to me the best way to get stuff to the phone. It's very quick too.
The dropbox integration isworking, and quite well. I'm wondering is there a way in future to upload to a private dropbox share?
Even though it's only an early preview, the dekstop app is great. I like the integration with Windows 7; I have it pinned to my taskbar. Might be useful to have a "Start with Windows" option in there. I'm sure you're aware of some of the bugs like the lack of proper icons in the jumplist Tasks and the filenaming issue that causes PDFs to be unreadable from WP7. To be expected with a preview.
From a UI point of view, I think the "Set Transfer Destination" option should not be in the jumplist and should be in the main config window instead. It's not a menu item you would need ever access to again after you've set your dropbox settings.
The WP7 app itself is also coming along great. I'm wondering if you will split the file list into categories, eg Notes, Links, Images, Files etc. Or failing that, have just "New" and "All" categories? Perhaps, for things like notes, you can Archive them into an Archive category... just an idea. Oh, and when a file is sent via the desktop app at the moment, for example a photo, instead of displaying just as "File", perhaps it could display as "File - {name}"?
Great stuff, getting great use out of this app so far, and its usefulness will explode when copy and paste arrives to WP7 devices. Thanks!
A big thanks to Dave for this excellent tool, it is also nice to see a thread wherevpeoplevare pushing the boundaries of what can be done with wp7 rather than just slanting it off.
wheresmybeaver said:
The dropbox integration isworking, and quite well. I'm wondering is there a way in future to upload to a private dropbox share?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not likely, as I've been saying, the phone needs to be able to access a share via the web browser. As far as I know, Dropbox private folders won't do this. That's why I've included an option to mutate the name a bit, so someone can't just guess filenames in your public folder.
The WP7 app itself is also coming along great. I'm wondering if you will split the file list into categories, eg Notes, Links, Images, Files etc. Or failing that, have just "New" and "All" categories? Perhaps, for things like notes, you can Archive them into an Archive category... just an idea. Oh, and when a file is sent via the desktop app at the moment, for example a photo, instead of displaying just as "File", perhaps it could display as "File - {name}"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note that the phone app has absolutely no support for the desktop app at this time, I will bring support for it in an update. Views are likely, I haven't decided what to do yet. I wouldn't expect that update for a couple of weeks though.
adesonic said:
A big thanks to Dave for this excellent tool, it is also nice to see a thread wherevpeoplevare pushing the boundaries of what can be done with wp7 rather than just slanting it off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
Send to WP7 Desktop
Dave, thanks for this app. It works well so far & I'm sure I'll get a lot of use out of this. One problem though I'm not getting notifications & when I open the app on the phone I get a push notification error. 'Failed to open channel'. Great work mate. Keep it up. Will send a donation when I get a chance.
davux said:
I'm the author of Send to WP7, if you have any other suggestions for ways you can send stuff to your phone, do let me know. I'm open to pretty much anything that's technically possibly without costing me an arm and a leg in infrastructure.
The main complaint in the current implementation is that it uploads to a public hosting site. Live Mesh and SkyDrive don't have suitable APIs for doing this, as I would very much like to tie everything into Windows Live. In order to be useful, the files need to be accessible via an HTTP URL, without requiring a cookie or authentication (HTTP auth may be acceptable, but it needs to be opened in the browser to have access to docs and PDFs.
Also do note that this is a preview quality build, I just figured some people may already want to start using it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can not download it in Germany
weepatc said:
Dave, thanks for this app. It works well so far & I'm sure I'll get a lot of use out of this. One problem though I'm not getting notifications & when I open the app on the phone I get a push notification error. 'Failed to open channel'. Great work mate. Keep it up. Will send a donation when I get a chance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually have this same problem on my device. I opened the same-named notification channel on a dev build, then I uninstalled that build while it had the channel open - now neither the marketplace build nor new dev builds will open the channel.
I don't know how you got into this situation, but my point is that I don't really know what I can do to help--I'm under the assumption that all I can do to fix my device is to do a master reset (so I'm waiting for the NoDo update). I'm hoping that this bug is fixed in the next update, but I don't know if it's even officially reported.
ceesheim said:
I can not download it in Germany
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've selected all possible countries, which I think includes Germany. I don't think there is anything else I can do for you--maybe I could post a link to the XAP and you could sideload it? My only issue with this is that I'll then have to maintain a secondary distribution channel, and will need to build some kind of updater.
you should be able to post a zune link and it should allow him to access it that way. no need to sideload.
The Zune:// link has always been on my product page.
http://www.daveamenta.com/products/chrome-to-wp7/
There have been posts about this here and there, but most of them are just asking for advice on how to do it. I plan to follow through and document the solutions I find.
Why, you ask? I don't like Google having so much data on me. I used to not care but in today's environment with SOPA and new NSA data centers and whatnot, well... maybe I'm paranoid but I don't necessarily want anyone to so easily have such a complete profile of all my searches, contacts, location history, etc. Anyway, if you think it's dumb, ok, got it, move along please.
So if I don't like Google then why use Android? Well, a couple of reasons. First of all, Google is not Android. Android is maintained by the Android Open Source Project, which in turn is made up of members of the Open Handset Alliance. Yes, Google is the lead member of the Open Handset Alliance, and yes most of the developers working on the Android Open Source Project are Google employees. But I've been following Android for long enough now to know that Google and Android are for all practical purposes separate entities.
The second reason is because Android is simply the best mobile operating system on the planet right now, and it is free open-source software. I use Ubuntu on my laptop, and I'm not interested in switching to Windows or Mac, so that pretty much rules out iPhone or Windows Phone right there.
But isn't Android really Google's OS? Yes and No. As I mentioned, Google does pretty much run the AOSP, along with device manufacturers. But AOSP is very "provider agnostic." Much of what you see on your phone is not from AOSP. The Galaxy Nexus is a GOOGLE device, not an AOSP device. Gmail, Maps, Market, Location Tracking, etc are all GOOGLE ADDITIONS and are NOT a part of AOSP! When you build AOSP from source (or Cyanogenmod), you end up with an agnostic, neutral device that has practically no mention of anything Google whatsoever.
But what about what you DONT have in AOSP? No Market??? No Gmail??? How can you possibly use Android without these things? Well that is exactly what I intend to find out.
Please feel free to contribute to the discussion with ideas and questions. Hopefully this thread can eventually be helpful for someone else who comes along and wants to do something similar.
More posts to follow as I progress....
EDIT: I should add, I also will try to avoid other "free" services like Yahoo! and Hotmail-- basically anyone who wants to run bots through your mail to sell you ads or sell your data to others who want to sell you ads, etc. I will be trying to use open-source or for-pay services where possible (if it's "free" then YOU'RE the product!).
I commend your ambition, but this is nothing new. There are already non-Google Android handsets an tablets on the market. The Kindle Fire, for example, is non-Google.
You can do the same with a GNex. Just don't add a Google account or use a ROM without the gapps. Install the Amazon App Store, change your default search, and away you go.
please...stay safe
Personally the only Google apps I use are Gmail and the Play store, with an occasional use of maps and goggles.
Having a market is really just for convenience, you could install with APKs like on Windows you have to install from EXEs or MSIs. And if you're that against google you could just use the Amazon marketplace for stuff, though I've heard they take longer to receive updates.
In all honesty I don't know what to suggest except flashing 100% and not signing into Google services in any way or form. What you are asking is not possible unless you use apks from non market source and using Hotmail or something.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus expect possible typos.
If somebody figure out how to use Calendar, without creating google account for at least one time, or tell me the alternative calendar (not just widget) that will not sync with google, it would be nice. For example Smasung TW Launcher has it's own calendar, that you can choose, without google, but pure ICS does not have.
I have tryed many alternative, such as Jorte, Pocket Informant, etc, but they are far away from stock ...
I use:
1mobile.net
4shared.com (You also get 15gb cloud space free)
appbrain.com (get app from 4shared)
I absolutely love Google and all of their services. You're crazy! Good luck with it though.
Somebody needs to come out with a tinfoil hat edition ROM.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
sashavegas said:
If somebody figure out how to use Calendar, without creating google account for at least one time, or tell me the alternative calendar (not just widget) that will not sync with google, it would be nice. For example Smasung TW Launcher has it's own calendar, that you can choose, without google, but pure ICS does not have.
I have tryed many alternative, such as Jorte, Pocket Informant, etc, but they are far away from stock ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THIS is the point of the thread. Replacing Android Market with Amazon App Stores is completely simple and obvious. Getting contacts and calendar syncing, things like that are not so obvious. Mainly because I am not only going to avoid Google, but other services like Yahoo! or Hotmail, etc (anything that's "free" so they can monetize your data).
Stay off the grid bro
Sent from my francoPhone
ChongoDroid said:
Stay off the grid bro
Sent from my francoPhone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly! Lol.
Once you're connected to the internet, you're pretty much open to everyone... You can go offline if you don't want any of these... It's not only google... There's ways you can go anonymous like using proxy.... Using search engine that don't track search data... Google has an option for you to opt-in or opt out... Just like the previous responses, you can use amazon but don't think amazon doesn't track you also... How would they know what to recommend you... Google don't force users to stick only to them... And that's why I like google for this reason only...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g with Beats Audio
matt2053 said:
THIS is the point of the thread. Replacing Android Market with Amazon App Stores is completely simple and obvious. Getting contacts and calendar syncing, things like that are not so obvious. Mainly because I am not only going to avoid Google, but other services like Yahoo! or Hotmail, etc (anything that's "free" so they can monetize your data).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There should be some third party app that will do these things, well you use linux, you should know that there's a lot of alternatives... Try if the software you use in ubuntu are available for android
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g with Beats Audio
Try this one, if you use thunderbird. Seems decent...
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.callicia.birdiesync
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g with Beats Audio
AndroidNeophyte said:
Once you're connected to the internet, you're pretty much open to everyone... You can go offline if you don't want any of these... It's not only google... There's ways you can go anonymous like using proxy.... Using search engine that don't track search data... Google has an option for you to opt-in or opt out... Just like the previous responses, you can use amazon but don't think amazon doesn't track you also... How would they know what to recommend you... Google don't force users to stick only to them... And that's why I like google for this reason only...
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g with Beats Audio
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The point isn't really to be 100% anonymous. That would require a dumbphone with prepaid sim or VPN/Proxy setups etc, and that's not what I'm look at. The point is to make an experiment and see how "non-Google" AOSP really is and how useful it is as a mobile OS on its own, without Google proprietary add-ons. Many people say you "have to have a Gmail account to use Android," or "you have to sync your contacts through Gmail" etc and I want to show people how they can do it without Google if they so choose.
AndroidNeophyte said:
Try this one, if you use thunderbird. Seems decent...
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.callicia.birdiesync
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4g with Beats Audio
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I saw that one and I plan to try it out. I do use Thunderbird, thanks!
AOSP + open source Exchange alternative for syncing Calendar/Email/Contacts hosted on your own server (ie Zimbra)
Sideload all apps
Voila!
matt2053 said:
THIS is the point of the thread. Replacing Android Market with Amazon App Stores is completely simple and obvious. Getting contacts and calendar syncing, things like that are not so obvious. Mainly because I am not only going to avoid Google, but other services like Yahoo! or Hotmail, etc (anything that's "free" so they can monetize your data).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
XDA monetizes your data. Every website does; that's how they pay for hosting and bandwidth.
Use a different calendar app and sync your contacts to Outlook, or just back them up somewhere.
Alright, but you should really start off removing the antenna from your smartphone. Then compile AOSP, don't flash GApps, sideload all APK files.
There, now you're off the grid. Enjoy boredom and next to no convenient functionality.
Hi!
I just installed the KITKANG rom (cf. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2549776) and a the first glance, it is pretty nice. But then I noticed a few things I really dislike such as
- The Web Browser does not reformat text (to make it fitting on the screen) if you zoom in manually by gesture. The browser I had on my previous image (caynogenmod 7) did this. And I don't want to miss that feature anymore.
- The contacts application seems to work by syncing contacts tothe Google cloud, only. My old contacts app had the choice to store contacts locally on the phone without Google sync.
I have no idea how to get this missing features back, again. Any comments / pointers?
I.
- Install another browser that has this feature
- The newer 'people' app may not have the option to store locally, but why do you want this? The whole point of an Android phone is to sync with your Google account.
It is dangerous to only store your contacts on the phone, because if you ever lose the phone, you lose all your contacts.
If you sync your contacts to your Google account and you lose your phone, your contacts are still safe :good:
eddiehk6 said:
- Install another browser that has this feature
- The newer 'people' app may not have the option to store locally, but why do you want this? The whole point of an Android phone is to sync with your Google account.
It is dangerous to only store your contacts on the phone, because if you ever lose the phone, you lose all your contacts.
If you sync your contacts to your Google account and you lose your phone, your contacts are still safe :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@ browser issue: I meanwhile learned that the issue cause by a change of the the rendering engine in Android to WebView. So, almost all browsers are affected by this. (For details, google "Text Reflow Removed From WebViews In KitKat, Probably Not Coming Back"). Opera is an exception, because it comes alone with its own machinery. However, I tried Opera and is is slow on my HTC Desire. As many, many other people complaining, I cannot understand why the Android development folks dropped such a fundamental feature. The Android Browser of Kitkat tends to be unusable now! And I consider a smartphone without a proper browser as unusable as well. Which at the end might prevent me from buying another Android smartphone...
@ contacts: I totally disagree. Well, yes, from Googles perspective, your statement might be true. But for the user, Android is at first just an operating system to run your smartphone. Think about why Google wants your data...! - I want to *own* my data, so I don't want to use cloud services. Strange that you think syncing of data is equivalent to syncing to Google! Of course I sync all my data. To my own PC. If I'd loose my phone, I won't loose my data, just re-install it to my new phone from my PC.
It is nice that Google offers syncing. But enforcing to sync *is* evil...
inmado said:
@ browser issue: I meanwhile learned that the issue cause by a change of the the rendering engine in Android to WebView. So, almost all browsers are affected by this. (For details, google "Text Reflow Removed From WebViews In KitKat, Probably Not Coming Back"). Opera is an exception, because it comes alone with its own machinery. However, I tried Opera and is is slow on my HTC Desire. As many, many other people complaining, I cannot understand why the Android development folks dropped such a fundamental feature. The Android Browser of Kitkat tends to be unusable now! And I consider a smartphone without a proper browser as unusable as well. Which at the end might prevent me from buying another Android smartphone...
@ contacts: I totally disagree. Well, yes, from Googles perspective, your statement might be true. But for the user, Android is at first just an operating system to run your smartphone. Think about why Google wants your data...! - I want to *own* my data, so I don't want to use cloud services. Strange that you think syncing of data is equivalent to syncing to Google! Of course I sync all my data. To my own PC. If I'd loose my phone, I won't loose my data, just re-install it to my new phone from my PC.
It is nice that Google offers syncing. But enforcing to sync *is* evil...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can see this descending quickly into a rather philosophical debate, but on the basis of your reasoning I wonder whether an Android smartphone is suitable for your needs in the first place. I didn't know your stance on personal data from your first post.
I agree with the text reflow browser, a really useful feature. Opera has it like you found out, though the Desire is just an old phone now which struggles to run it. Plenty of newer Android devices will run it just fine. The depth of the Play Store is such that you'll almost certainly find an alternative suitable for your requirements, so perhaps test and consider that for future smartphone purchases.
As for syncing with cloud services, it comes down to user trust and needs I guess. You're right you don't have to use Google, but an Android smartphone really does work best if you use their services.
No, I don't think that syncing of all my data is equivalent to syncing to Google, I use other other accounts too and don't sync everything. In my opinion I think it's possible to find a reasonable middle ground between paranoid tin hat and being ignorant about all personal data. For me, I disable all location tracking stuff and usage stats for any apps (not just Google ones), as I don't need them and feel uncomfortable sending this data. But I do sync other google services like Gmail / contacts because I find they work and are convenient for me. You believe it's evil, I believe it's useful and convenient, just a difference of opinion.
For your workaround, if you don't want to sync contacts, you could disable contact sync within the settings. Would be equivalent to local storage. Or install a different contacts app to manage and store contacts locally.
To avoid this philosophical debate, I'll try give a short answer.
I am using Android for about 5 years now. Without using Google cloud services. And have been a happy Android user. Sounds quite funny to me if someone wonders if Android would be the right thing for me.
Using cloud services is not really a matter of trust. I.e. I am not afraid that Google looks into single items and makes use out of it. But if you have heard about "big data", you can imagine what the result can be when all the data of some many people gets available for ... things you cannot even imagine..
I tried to add a contact with Google sync switched off. It just don't work. The app hangs...
inmado said:
To avoid this philosophical debate, I'll try give a short answer.
I am using Android for about 5 years now. Without using Google cloud services. And have been a happy Android user. Sounds quite funny to me if someone wonders if Android would be the right thing for me.
Using cloud services is not really a matter of trust. I.e. I am not afraid that Google looks into single items and makes use out of it. But if you have heard about "big data", you can imagine what the result can be when all the data of some many people gets available for ... things you cannot even imagine..
I tried to add a contact with Google sync switched off. It just don't work. The app hangs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're revealing more about your preferences and Android experience to date with each post...it's not just me wondering whether Android is right for you, in your second post you said so yourself
Anyway each to their own.
Have you tried installing a completely separate contacts/dialer application? You could sideload or use a different app store to find one. A few I know of:
- Contacts+
- Ex dialer
- RocketDial
- Go contacts ex
I'm certain at least one of them will be able to create phone contacts only.