Non-market apps permissions - G2 and Desire Z Themes and Apps

Hey guys,
I'm new to the Android scene having come from WinMo. I've downloaded a few apps not from the market (ie: from links/sigs at xda-devs) and the permissions that come up are quite scary looking - I have to allow things like:
- Personal info
- Services that cost $$
- My location
- Accounts
- etc
Basically my digital life stored on the phone - and this is for something as simple as a notes widget. Is this a normal warning for non-market apps? Or is it actually what I'm giving that app access to? These permissions are in orange btw and have an exclamation mark next to them.
Any help would be appreciated!

Hi,
I have installed a couple of "non-market" apps on my Dezire Z and yes, I also get a similar warning.
Fire and brimstone may fall upon you - would you like to continue and install this app!!??.
Des. . .

skulk3r said:
Or is it actually what I'm giving that app access to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's exactly that, the specific permissions that application is asking for.
There's a breakdown of what they all mean at: http://www.brighthub.com/mobile/google-android/articles/91280.aspx
Hope this helps!

Related

AppFinder on Windows Phone 7

Check out my free app in the Marketplace: AppFinder
AppFinder is the fastest way to find apps by name bar none.
Start typing the name of an app or publisher, and the search results are shown instantly.
tap one of the results to go to the marketplace page for the app.
Check it out and let me know what you think
Been using it last couple days, its a big help! Thanks!!!
I'll check it out thanks!
Thank you - it's very fast like the marketplace search should be. Good for quick looking apps if you know the name.
Are there any improvements coming? Like the Top Downloads or anything else?
appfinder feedback
thanks for the feedback - I'm on it
Great app, thanks!
BTW I can't find HTC Hub...
I think you need an HTC device for that sorry buddy
zukŠ° said:
I think you need an HTC device for that sorry buddy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah but some guys were able to find it...
AppFinder
Ok, v1.1 has been submitted to the app marketplace and is ready for testing - should show up in the marketplace as an update within a few days
ebadger said:
Ok, v1.1 has been submitted to the app marketplace and is ready for testing - should show up in the marketplace as an update within a few days
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does this fix the crash where it closed and wouldn't reopen for me (even after soft reset)?
I had to uninstall, reinstall to get it working again.
I don't think so.
Although I think I know the cause. I will have to roll the fix into another update.
I think there is a small window where the downloaded data file can be corrupted if the writing to flash is interrupted. It will be simple to fix. For now, if you hit it, uninstall reinstall is the only option.
nice find. but did you know while in maketplace you can use the search button to find apps as well?
jimecm said:
nice find. but did you know while in maketplace you can use the search button to find apps as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course I do
AppFinder is all about making apps discoverable in the fastest way possible.
I think if you're not in the top 20 apps in the marketplace under any one of the categories, then as a developer you're invisible. AppFinder seeks to make it easier to find apps via search, and with the update, via browsing as well.
Update is in the hopper, still waiting for testing to complete...
jimecm said:
nice find. but did you know while in maketplace you can use the search button to find apps as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the annoying thing is that it searches music and video as well. i can't just search for apps alone
locales
Ok, so I just figured out I've only been indexing the en-US locale
I've updated the data to include
{ "en-US", "en-GB", "en-IE", "en-CA", "en-IN", "en-AU", "en-HK", "en-SG", "de-DE", "fr-FR", "fr-BE", "de-AT", "de-CH", "it-IT", "en-NZ", "es-ES", "es-MX" };
this change is effective immediately as it is a data update. Still waiting for the update to make it through the approval process. It seems that the holiday has slowed things down a bit
The update finally arrived
Nice new features and still very fast. But unfortunately, in my case, it wont load after the second app start (even at first start if I switch the section). I always have to deinstall/reinstall again once the app was started.
Maybe you can take a look? Feels like a caching problem or something like that. I'm using a Samsung Omnia 7 in germany - if that helps
Feature wishlist:
1. add a settings screen to edit:
a.) the number of list entries on one page (10, 20, 50) to keep the app fast enough
b.) the section on loading (and maybe you also can set this to no section just for fast look-up app search - I used the app for this before the update)
2. Maybe you can use the OS-typical "left-to-right-scrolling-loading-dots" instead of the big ones?
3. New logo if there is enough time
PrivateJoker said:
The update finally arrived
Nice new features and still very fast. But unfortunately, in my case, it wont load after the second app start (even at first start if I switch the section). I always have to deinstall/reinstall again once the app was started.
Maybe you can take a look? Feels like a caching problem or something like that. I'm using a Samsung Omnia 7 in germany - if that helps
Feature wishlist:
1. add a settings screen to edit:
a.) the number of list entries on one page (10, 20, 50) to keep the app fast enough
b.) the section on loading (and maybe you also can set this to no section just for fast look-up app search - I used the app for this before the update)
2. Maybe you can use the OS-typical "left-to-right-scrolling-loading-dots" instead of the big ones?
3. New logo if there is enough time
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Private Joker,
Thanks for the feedback.
First - there was a bug that only impacted the German locale! I was trying to save bandwidth by truncating unnecessary leading zeros in the price and this caused an exception when the locale was set to German. I've updated the data to include the leading zeros and this fixes the problem for Germans. You will have to uninstall and reinstall though to get it to work. I am very sorry for the inconvenience, and I really appreciate you taking the time to give me your feedback even though the app was not working for you at all. I hope you will try again given that the data has been fixed.
Regarding your feedback -
I think you are right on the mark for #2 and #3
I don't understand 2b.
regarding 1a.
perf should not be impacted by the number of items that are shown -
Appfinder actually transfers the marketplace data to the device and indexes it locally. I do this because the network is really, really slow. Aside from having artists and albums mixed up with apps in the marketplace search results, I also was tired of waiting for results to load. Scrolling through the apps means waiting.
The delay at the beginning is caused by reading the marketplace data from flash and indexing it in RAM. Occasionally the loading dots will appear after launching (like the first time that you use it) because AppFinder has transfered a new data file and needs to parse it again. Instead of delaying every 10 or so apps in the list, there is one delay at the beginning (which is relatively small). Right now parsing the file takes about 4 seconds.
Perf could be greatly improve if I had access to memory mapped file APIs. Further compressing the data would help as well - The really slowest part is really reading from the flash. I can improve perf when a network update occurs by reading from the flash in the background before blocking - this would drop the update delay from ~4 seconds to ~1 second.
I could also not query as you're typing -- Waiting until the enter button has been pressed would reduce CPU load and any chunkiness - pressing search would just render the apps instantly.
Anyway, really appreciate your positive attitude and willingness to give feedback in light of what must be a frustrating experience. Please give it another try.
Thanks,
Eric

noobs android rom security question

hi, sorry if this isn't the right place, but wasn't sure where to post.
if i were - for example - a malicious android rom maker - i could add routines, backdoors etc etc into the rom i push out for evil intent. for example i see so many apps in the market wanting fine location (gps) permissions, and reading of phone data contacts when it shouldn't need it. the worst part is, i wouldn't know as any backdoors would be ingrained into the system.
so how do i know that roms out don't do this at all?
bump for an aswer?
MarkusPO said:
hi, sorry if this isn't the right place, but wasn't sure where to post.
if i were - for example - a malicious android rom maker - i could add routines, backdoors etc etc into the rom i push out for evil intent. for example i see so many apps in the market wanting fine location (gps) permissions, and reading of phone data contacts when it shouldn't need it. the worst part is, i wouldn't know as any backdoors would be ingrained into the system.
so how do i know that roms out don't do this at all?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A tl;dr version : You don't know, and can't tell easily.
The full version: If you go for a ROM from a trusted and reliable person, you should be OK. It's fairly hard to check everything, but it is possible. You just need to be careful...
Droidwall is potentially of use if you want to block internet access, though obviously it would only be of use if you could whitelist the apps you WANT to ALLOW, as a malicious app wouldn't necessarily get blacklisted by you.
This isn't fool-proof though, as someone could (in theory) put something in a system app. But there is the issue of the fact that someone with skills to do that wouldn't be doing such a thing, as they have better things to do with their time, and they wouldn't dream of doing it.
For ultimate safety, compile yourself from AOSP sources
So basically, you can't tell, but just stay away from ROMs from new users with no history, or people who may have "shady pasts", and it should be OK.

Ignore/hide app update

I have an app (calorie counter) that keeps showing a notification there is an update. I don't want to update it because the new permissions seem intrusive (allowing hardware controls - take picture and video).
Does anyone know how I can disable getting a notification about the update?
Cheers,
Open Google play, go to settings and uncheck " notifications" option.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
That will turn off notifications for all apps though, which I'd rather not do.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Gucci.Nexus said:
That will turn off notifications for all apps though, which I'd rather not do.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could use titanium backup to disassociate the app with the Google Play store. I've personally never done it myself, but I think this is the solution you're looking for
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium
Gucci.Nexus said:
That will turn off notifications for all apps though, which I'd rather not do.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also specify it on a per app basis. Just open the app in Google play and uncheck the checkbox.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Petrovski80 said:
You can also specify it on a per app basis. Just open the app in Google play and uncheck the checkbox.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you can't
The only check box is for Automatic Updates, not update notifications.
Go to settings, apps, select the app, uncheck notifications.
Solution by using ZipSigner 2
I just came across a solution (android.stackexchange.com/a/25527)
If you've got root access and have the original apk of the version you want to keep at hand (via Titanium backup or copied out of your \data\app folder), you can use ZipSigner 2 to give that apk a different key (auto-testkey).
When you install the apk with its new key, the Play Store will not recognize the installed app and will therefore not try to search or push any updates. :good:
ZipSigner 2 is available for free in the Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=kellinwood.zipsigner2
If you have root, you can simply use ti backup to detach an app from the market.
It was assumed op doesn't have root though.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Petrovski80 said:
If you have root, you can simply use ti backup to detach an app from the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was my understanding that detaching an app in Titanium does not work anymore since an update from Google Play has more checks on the server side.
http://www.titaniumtrack.com/changelog/titanium-backup/4-8-4-1
Djezpur said:
I just came across a solution (android.stackexchange.com/a/25527)
If you've got root access and have the original apk of the version you want to keep at hand (via Titanium backup or copied out of your \data\app folder), you can use ZipSigner 2 to give that apk a different key (auto-testkey).
When you install the apk with its new key, the Play Store will not recognize the installed app and will therefore not try to search or push any updates. :good:
ZipSigner 2 is available for free in the Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=kellinwood.zipsigner2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for this. What a quick and easy solution. Now I can keep the old Foursquare without getting it automatically updated to that new version.
Please note: ZipSigner 2 does not require root!
The solution probably still works. Thanks for the hint!
Now I did test it.
1. Use App Backup and Restore to save the apk
2. Use Zipsigner to give the apk a different autokey
3. Uninstall original app
4. Install the apk modified by Zipsigner, you may need some file manager like TotalCommander for this
It is all possible without root and works well
Gucci.Nexus said:
I have an app (calorie counter) that keeps showing a notification there is an update. I don't want to update it because the new permissions seem intrusive (allowing hardware controls - take picture and video).
Does anyone know how I can disable getting a notification about the update?
Cheers,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know this is an old thread. And I understand that Ti Backup used to work for detaching an app from Play Store. But I also understand that this works no longer. For those who are interested, I have created an app that does a pretty good job of this. It is called Hide Updates In Play Store. There is a video showing the app at work. It does require a rooted device. Thanks
Let me summarize:
- it costs money
- it needs root
- it needs an additional app
- the solution may not persist if you uninstall the controlling app
All these disadvantages can be avoided by reading just one posting higher ...
tag68 said:
Let me summarize:
- it costs money
- it needs root
- it needs an additional app
- the solution may not persist if you uninstall the controlling app
All these disadvantages can be avoided by reading just one posting higher ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are, of course, correct in the disadvantages. But the above method has its own limitations:
1) I wonder how/if it will work with system apps unless you have root. For instance, I actually wanted to get rid of updates to Google Search since later versions hose-up Utter.
2) It is something of a pain to "undo" since you will loose any settings or data (unless you are VERY CAREFUL) related to the app when you uninstall the "fake-signed" app and re-install the "real" app. Of course, this would also happen during the install of the "fake-signed" app in the first place. In some cases, this may be trivial but in others, it may not. And App Backup/Restore - which I use - fine app - only processes the .apk file.
3) It requires a minimum 2 apps be installed.
4) It isn't terribly easy to do. Developers would likely be able/willing to handle this - or even know what signing is or what to do. But how about others? The first one would be hardest for sure.
Like my solution, it also seems not likely to work with paid apps or apps having in-app purchases. I am not 100% sure, but would guess that the re-signing will mess up most Play Store license checking. Indeed, App Backup/Restore handles these differently and with far less functionality.
Still, for someone who is willing to do it and for those lacking root, the solution suggested above seems like it will work and those who are rooted can certainly save that $1 which can be used to make a one-time purchase of maybe 1/2 cup of coffee at the nearest Starbucks
Cheers!
David, if you would have mentioned the possibility of resigning in the description of your app, maybe even give the manual how to do without your app, I'd much more be willing to believe and support you.
Without that hint it has a little smell of betraying for me, not showing people who do not know better or do not have root that there are cost-free alternatives. But probably I have just to admit that you seem to be good at selling. I usually don't like people who are good at selling.
tag68 said:
David, if you would have mentioned the possibility of resigning in the description of your app, maybe even give the manual how to do without your app, I'd much more be willing to believe and support you.
Without that hint it has a little smell of betraying for me, not showing people who do not know better or do not have root that there are cost-free alternatives. But probably I have just to admit that you seem to be good at selling. I usually don't like people who are good at selling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, I developed and posted my app on Play Store before I even saw this forum thread with its reference to resigning apps. So I was not aware at the time.
Second, I still have not even tried to confirm that the re-signing approach will work (although I can see that it might). I will take the word of the person who posted this technique that it does indeed work. But I now have a solution that I like and use. So I have no real need to find and test other solutions.
Third, there are often many possible solutions to a given problem. In fact, my original approach to this particular problem was done via Tasker and shell scripts. It worked but was not particularly user friendly. I tried to remedy that in my app. It seems you are saying that a person (me) choosing to implement one possible solution must also run down, verify, and advertise all other approaches. If so, I think that is a bit ridiculous and would appreciate a list of examples of app authors who are doing this who you do "believe and support." I do not think it is very common.
Fourth, I found this thread via a google search. I think it is fair to believe others will as well if they are seeking alternative approaches. So they too can learn about the resigning approach and decide for themselves how to proceed. I never claimed (here on in my app) that mine is the only approach. I never say it is the "best" approach. I do not denigrate proponents of other approaches. I only implemented one approach that seemed reasonable to me. I posted here so others who suffer from this weakness in Play Store can, if they wish, can check it out for themselves. Play Store gives buyers 2 hours or so to test the solution and decide if it works for them. If not, they are free to return the app and cancel the sale and charge.
Fifth, if you check my list of apps on Play Store, you will see that they are all very small apps and all are either free or very low cost. All of these apps were the result of my trying to resolve situations that I found personally irritating. I then thought that maybe others would find them useful as well. If you look at the number of installs for all of my apps combined, I think you will find that I am NOT at all good at "selling". Indeed, if the net proceeds from all of my paid apps combined exceeded much more than $300 total it would be a miracle. With programming, testing, and support time this likely works out to be maybe $0.10 per hour. I figure the market for this app will be no larger than my previous apps and at $1 per sale, it will be a while before I can use the proceeds to buy even a six pack of beer (especially after Google takes their cut). So I can hardly be considered a successful salesman. If only that were true! I do sell some of my apps. But truth be told I really do this, not for the money, but so I can show some revenue to the tax authorities so they permit me to write off some computer-related expenses.
I am sorry you feel "betrayed" by me somehow. And I am sorry that you have somehow decided that you don't like me for the rather limited reasons you have managed to list here. I really do not think I have given you or anyone else cause to reach such conclusions. It really makes me kind of sad. But you are entitled to your opinions and I will leave it at that as I walk away in wonder.
You admit that you googled where you could post ads for your app, did not even have a look what was last written in the thread and then sent your ad? In my opinion that IS Spam, nothing else ...
So thank you for the offer, and for staying away from this thread in future. For everyone who needs a good working solution free of cost and less use of resources but with a bit more manual handling of apk-files, have a look at posting #13 of this thread.
Djezpur said:
I just came across a solution (android.stackexchange.com/a/25527)
If you've got root access and have the original apk of the version you want to keep at hand (via Titanium backup or copied out of your \data\app folder), you can use ZipSigner 2 to give that apk a different key (auto-testkey).
When you install the apk with its new key, the Play Store will not recognize the installed app and will therefore not try to search or push any updates. :good:
ZipSigner 2 is available for free in the Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=kellinwood.zipsigner2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank-you! That worked like charm!!

Why root?

What exactly does root do for a firestick? I root all my phones so I know what it is but just got a firestick and wondering what root will do
Well, there are many reasons to root the Fire Tv. The main reason would be to install the google play store but there are plenty of other reasons, for example
. expanding internal storage to a external drive
. installing root apps
. changing the launcher
James_Ward01 said:
Well, there are many reasons to root the Fire Tv. The main reason would be to install the google play store but there are plenty of other reasons, for example
. expanding internal storage to a external drive
. installing root apps
. changing the launcher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Is there a way to manually upgrade to 5.2.1.0? Mine is older and don't want to get 5.2.2 as it isn't rootable
You might want to take a look at this thread:http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/development/prerooted-stock-images-t2882337
- to get NTFS support using Paragon (no 4GB filesize limit)
- to get smb support using Samba (and Paragon to disable SELinux at boot)
- to use screen sharing kvm apps like webkey (control your Fire TV from a PC)
- to use DNS redirects to be able to use apps like Pandora from outside the US (using adaway)
- to get the google Play store installedo
- to block ads using adaway
- to get access to apps using the xposed framework (f.e. to use Bubble UPNP as a media server to its fullest extent)
- to stop Amazon from auto updating your Fire TV and take features away with every new firmware release
- to install an adb toggle thats more convenient to use that Amazons "hidden in the developer settings" one
- to use an unmentioned shady app to strip away DRM from paid applications that won't run, even though the play store infrastructure is in place.
- to be able to do your own bash automation scripts using Terminal Shortcut Pro
- to set and fixate screen orientation to always stay in landscape mode
- to be able to use SD Maid to manage storage efficiently
- to replace the launcher
- to change keybindings for third party controllers - system wide
- to effectively use retroarch that still stores important config files in the /data/ directory instead of on /sdcard/
...
.. basically for a whole bunch of things productblogs don't like to talk about, because they need to keep the myth up, that you really only need to watch a youtube video on ESFileExplorer (don't you EVER use this app and call yourself an XDA user - http://www.xda-developers.com/es-file-explorer-a-short-story-of-a-fallen-king/ ) and a Kodi Install Wizzard (because its the EAZIEST - although entirely unsupported way to enjoy content piracy - unsupported even by pirates - because just as with adb fire - its mostly people (dare I say youtubers) keen on striping out the whole learning part, and replacing it with dependency an a guy that does nothing but repackage the work of others and get ad-dollars for your attention - attained by shouting EAZIEST a couple of times...).
(edit: I'm adding a little art installation called "Why product bloggers s*ck - to this thread at this point, mostly as an elated comic relief, but also to make a point.
http://i.imgur.com/gxma9a7.png )
Its funny to see most new business models (product bloggers, youtubers, wizard creators (its EAZIEST, with 500 roms!), obscure plugin blogs, FireTV resellers, ...) all go after one thing and one thing only -
the average consumer that doesnt know his roots from his product options before a product purchase, that thinks every technical "hack" is just there so he/she can get piracy - and who , if things turn out not as easy as it was sold to them - if a question about the benefits of rooting doesnt successfully turn into a personal "request on how I should update, because I am on - that firmware and..." within five posts of a new thread, just goes with the paid subscription model of whatever pops up in bannerads first, instead. (Plex).
So here is the deal. Talking about, why ownership of a box sold to you by Amazon - where Amazon tries to pull away features in firmware releases after the fact is important, is something I gladly do - because its talked about far less than it should be...
Helping you find out "how to best update from x to y without loosing root" in the same thread, because - who cares about the title, "I have a new problem and I wan't it to be solved" - much less entertaining of a thing in general.
Again - this is the difference between a question regarding knowledge - and mere support solicitation.
Moderators tried to prevent the second one in here with the sticky that states, that your personal questions dont go into the general forum.
But no one cares to actually go by it - because, the pinned topic actually failed to mention, that its support solicitation for basic "setup and maintenance" stuff that you shouldn't bother people with in here, because we had enough of it.
Speaking of having enough of something... The notion that "you don't need root" comes from a "as long as I can haz piracy I don't care" point of view that is provided as an actionable stance by product bloggers and youtubers that also have a vested interest that you don't leave Amazons upgrade path (regardless of where it leads), because they are in the business of acting as conduits for pr messages from the company.
The last paragraph was an explanation for why the "you don't need root" myth is still so prevelant in the Fire TV community .
Another explanation would be, that people don't care to look it up, or learn things, as long as their base needs are met. You can pick one.
harlekinwashere said:
- to get NTFS support using Paragon (no 4GB filesize limit)
- to get smb support using Samba (and Paragon to disable SELinux at boot)
- to use screen sharing kvm apps like webkey (control your Fire TV from a PC)
- to use DNS redirects to be able to use apps like Pandora from outside the US (using adaway)
- to get the google Play store installedo
- to block ads using adaway
- to get access to apps using the xposed framework (f.e. to use Bubble UPNP as a media server to its fullest extent)
- to stop Amazon from auto updating your Fire TV and take features away with every new firmware release
- to install an adb toggle thats more convenient to use that Amazons "hidden in the developer settings" one
- to use an unmentioned shady app to strip away DRM from paid applications that won't run, even though the play store infrastructure is in place.
- to be able to do your own bash automation scripts using Terminal Shortcut Pro
- to set and fixate screen orientation to always stay in landscape mode
- to be able to use SD Maid to manage storage efficiently
- to replace the launcher
- to change keybindings for third party controllers - system wide
- to effectively use retroarch that still stores important config files in the /data/ directory instead of on /sdcard/
...
.. basically for a whole bunch of things productblogs don't like to talk about, because they need to keep the myth up, that you really only need to watch a youtube video on ESFileExplorer (don't you EVER use this app and call yourself an XDA user - http://www.xda-developers.com/es-file-explorer-a-short-story-of-a-fallen-king/ ) and a Kodi Install Wizzard (because its the EAZIEST - although entirely unsupported way to enjoy content piracy - unsupported even by pirates - because just as with adb fire - its mostly people (dare I say youtubers) keen on striping out the whole learning part, and replacing it with dependency an a guy that does nothing but repackage the work of others and get ad-dollars for your attention - attained by shouting EAZIEST a couple of times...).
Its funny to see most new business models (product bloggers, youtubers, wizard creators (its EAZIEST, with 500 roms!), obscure plugin blogs, FireTV resellers, ...) all go after one thing and one thing only -
the average consumer that doesnt know his roots from his product options before a product purchase, that thinks every technical "hack" is just there so he/she can get piracy - and who , if things turn out not as easy as it was sold to them - if a question about the benefits of rooting doesnt successfully turn into a personal "request on how I should update, because I am on - that firmware and..." within five posts of a new thread, just goes with the paid subscription model of whatever pops up in bannerads first, instead. (Plex).
So here is the deal. Talking about, why ownership of a box sold to you by Amazon - where Amazon tries to pull away features in firmware releases after the fact is important, is something I gladly do - because its talked about far less than it should be...
Helping you find out "how to best update from x to y without loosing root" in the same thread, because - who cares about the title, "I have a new problem and I wan't it to be solved" - much less entertaining of a thing in general.
Again - this is the difference between a question regarding knowledge - and mere support solicitation.
Moderators tried to prevent the second one in here with the sticky that states, that your personal questions dont go into the general forum.
But no one cares to actually go by it - because, the pinned topic actually failed to mention, that its support solicitation for basic "setup and maintenance" stuff that you shouldn't bother people with in here, because we had enough of it.
Speaking of having enough of something... The notion that "you don't need root" comes from a "as long as I can haz piracy I don't care" point of view that is provided as an actionable stance by product bloggers and youtubers that also have a vested interest that you don't leave Amazons upgrade path (regardless of where it leads), because they are in the business of acting as conduits for pr messages from the company.
The last paragraph was an explanation for why the "you don't need root" myth is still so prevelant in the Fire TV community .
Another explanation would be, that people don't care to look it up, or learn things, as long as their base needs are met. You can pick one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for all the information. I'm new to a firestick my grandpa had a bunch of them with the kodi app installed just now about to plug it in and see what it's about. Not even sure if it is rooted but about to find out
Well just found out my firestick is on current update so can't root it
James_Ward01 said:
Well, there are many reasons to root the Fire Tv. The main reason would be to install the google play store but there are plenty of other reasons, for example
. expanding internal storage to a external drive
. installing root apps
. changing the launcher
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Click to collapse
Is there an actual way to install a fully (Or all Hell), even a partially working PlayStote? On a FireTV / Stick 2? Having a FireTV2, and I can tell you that Rooting it WILL NOT net you either a partially working, much less a working PlayStore, with a working Play Services behind it.
You don't need google play services (unless you do).
Most Apps that depend on them only do so for single sign on or cloud features and work without play services regardless. With some apps you can patch the google play services dependency out of them (which is what apparently blackberry users have done for years).
For mostly Google Apps you'll need it, though.
The other issue is, that the play store on the Fire TV will convert to its Android TV state and layout - which only offers you a fraction of the Playstore Apps in store, available for direct install - because google seemingly only allows vetted apps in at this point.
Now - there are newer Play Store versions out there, than the one that presumably most of us have installed, when the old tutorials made their rounds, that are supposed to work - so you could update and see if something has changed - at the risk of bricking functionality and having to start over.
What IS possible though is, to update apps you already have installed on your Fire TV through the google play store - regardless of if the apps show up in the Android TV store or not. Once installed, Google Play Store will offer you updates.
That - and the ability to use Googles Play Store liceses (paid apps) on most apps with your Fire TV, should be sufficient for most people.
You just use app2fire and apkpure (dont blame me if the site turns around and starts distributing rootkits.. ) for the rest.
For Games - and because the FIre TV has so little storage available - I normally install them on my phone first, then copy over the /android/obb/ folders using smb (Samba on the Phone, Total Commander with the LAN plugin on the FIre TV) - then install the apk, and it works as well.
Its easy enough to do those things that I'm not willing to experiment with configurations that would allow "even better" play store integration.
Its good enough as is. Imho.
James_Ward01 said:
Well, there are many reasons to root the Fire Tv. The main reason would be to install the google play store but there are plenty of other reasons, for example
. expanding internal storage to a external drive
. installing root apps
. changing the launcher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there any directions out there for changing the launcher. It seems not possible the newer roms. Im on pre-root 5.2.1.1_R1 and not sure how to do it.
Flash xposed and necessary apks. Guide is on here somewhere. Install Rbox's xposed fire tv mods module. Enable in xposed and reboot. Sideload or download from Playstore (if installed) alt launcher. I like tvlauncher it's super clean and has Amazon home page in app format. Plus use can easily customize or create icons for clean look.
Do I need root for openvpn? (I am asking because I've ordered a Stick on Friday and it'll be here tomorrow)
harlekinwashere said:
- to get NTFS support using Paragon (no 4GB filesize limit)
- to get smb support using Samba (and Paragon to disable SELinux at boot)
- to use screen sharing kvm apps like webkey (control your Fire TV from a PC)
- to use DNS redirects to be able to use apps like Pandora from outside the US (using adaway)
- to get the google Play store installedo
- to block ads using adaway
- to get access to apps using the xposed framework (f.e. to use Bubble UPNP as a media server to its fullest extent)
- to stop Amazon from auto updating your Fire TV and take features away with every new firmware release
- to install an adb toggle thats more convenient to use that Amazons "hidden in the developer settings" one
- to use an unmentioned shady app to strip away DRM from paid applications that won't run, even though the play store infrastructure is in place.
- to be able to do your own bash automation scripts using Terminal Shortcut Pro
- to set and fixate screen orientation to always stay in landscape mode
- to be able to use SD Maid to manage storage efficiently
- to replace the launcher
- to change keybindings for third party controllers - system wide
- to effectively use retroarch that still stores important config files in the /data/ directory instead of on /sdcard/
...
.. basically for a whole bunch of things productblogs don't like to talk about, because they need to keep the myth up, that you really only need to watch a youtube video on ESFileExplorer (don't you EVER use this app and call yourself an XDA user - http://www.xda-developers.com/es-file-explorer-a-short-story-of-a-fallen-king/ ) and a Kodi Install Wizzard (because its the EAZIEST - although entirely unsupported way to enjoy content piracy - unsupported even by pirates - because just as with adb fire - its mostly people (dare I say youtubers) keen on striping out the whole learning part, and replacing it with dependency an a guy that does nothing but repackage the work of others and get ad-dollars for your attention - attained by shouting EAZIEST a couple of times...).
(edit: I'm adding a little art installation called "Why product bloggers s*ck - to this thread at this point, mostly as an elated comic relief, but also to make a point.
http://i.imgur.com/gxma9a7.png )
Its funny to see most new business models (product bloggers, youtubers, wizard creators (its EAZIEST, with 500 roms!), obscure plugin blogs, FireTV resellers, ...) all go after one thing and one thing only -
the average consumer that doesnt know his roots from his product options before a product purchase, that thinks every technical "hack" is just there so he/she can get piracy - and who , if things turn out not as easy as it was sold to them - if a question about the benefits of rooting doesnt successfully turn into a personal "request on how I should update, because I am on - that firmware and..." within five posts of a new thread, just goes with the paid subscription model of whatever pops up in bannerads first, instead. (Plex).
So here is the deal. Talking about, why ownership of a box sold to you by Amazon - where Amazon tries to pull away features in firmware releases after the fact is important, is something I gladly do - because its talked about far less than it should be...
Helping you find out "how to best update from x to y without loosing root" in the same thread, because - who cares about the title, "I have a new problem and I wan't it to be solved" - much less entertaining of a thing in general.
Again - this is the difference between a question regarding knowledge - and mere support solicitation.
Moderators tried to prevent the second one in here with the sticky that states, that your personal questions dont go into the general forum.
But no one cares to actually go by it - because, the pinned topic actually failed to mention, that its support solicitation for basic "setup and maintenance" stuff that you shouldn't bother people with in here, because we had enough of it.
Speaking of having enough of something... The notion that "you don't need root" comes from a "as long as I can haz piracy I don't care" point of view that is provided as an actionable stance by product bloggers and youtubers that also have a vested interest that you don't leave Amazons upgrade path (regardless of where it leads), because they are in the business of acting as conduits for pr messages from the company.
The last paragraph was an explanation for why the "you don't need root" myth is still so prevelant in the Fire TV community .
Another explanation would be, that people don't care to look it up, or learn things, as long as their base needs are met. You can pick one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow.. I managed to order another firetv device, wait on it being delivered from the states, root, brick and unbrick my device by the time i even begun to understand what this rant was about?
Peoples base needs I would say vary from person to person. One might be interested in learning about their system and tweaking, another may want root simply to debloat their device whereas another may not have a clue what root is.
I still don't understand this post when all someone asked who was clearly a novice, why root? Obviously they didn't know what the benefits were but suddenly became engulfed in this rewriting of the bible.

Question Multiple users on Fold 3? (aka work profile)

hey everyone,
I am struggling to find the option for adding another user.
I found this and this article on samsung web however netiher works for me.
The goal would be a completely secondary user for my work (work profile) which is password protected.
do you guysknow how to enable it?
Thanks!
As your account is linked to a Samsung account.
Best gues is go to settings and tap on you name and see there
I believe multiple users requires a rooted phone if your carrier does not enable it for you. I have not done this on the Fold 3 since I want the camera to continue to work and rooting it will kill the camera - thanks Samsung!
This is how you change BuildProp to enable multi user if you have root: How to Add Multi User Support to any Android Device with a Build.Prop Mod
Once you have it enabled, here is how you add users:
How to add another user
pulyka said:
hey everyone,
I am struggling to find the option for adding another user.
I found this and this article on samsung web however netiher works for me.
The goal would be a completely secondary user for my work (work profile) which is password protected.
do you guysknow how to enable it?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure about a completely different user, but does the Secure Folder work for you? Separate apps, contact lists, can't paste outside of it, separate files, etc. all password/fingerprint protected.
ButterflyFlutterflyMyOhMy said:
Not sure about a completely different user, but does the Secret Folder work for you? Separate apps, contact lists, can't paste outside of it, separate files, etc. all password/fingerprint protected.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks - I am trying that one out rn, however would prefer the completely separate profile - if possible
Flame Red said:
I believe multiple users requires a rooted phone if your carrier does not enable it for you. I have not done this on the Fold 3 since I want the camera to continue to work and rooting it will kill the camera - thanks Samsung!
This is how you change BuildProp to enable multi user if you have root: How to Add Multi User Support to any Android Device with a Build.Prop Mod
Once you have it enabled, here is how you add users:
How to add another user
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks very much! I'll take a look.
pulyka said:
thanks - I am trying that one out rn, however would prefer the completely separate profile - if possible
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I meant Secure Folder, and fixed it, but I'm glad you knew what I meant!
I used secure folder for my work purpose as well, all the company login, apps are completely separate via secure folders and the company admin won't be able to see my non-work information in this manner.
Have you looked at - Island App or the Play Store link?
Sounds like it does what you are looking for.
RRiVEN said:
Have you looked at - Island App or the Play Store link?
Sounds like it does what you are looking for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks like it's the same as Secure Folder, but will work with non-Samsung phones.
Correct, it is a non-Knox solution.

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