Hi Everyone,
A friend of mine was telling about the FTV and I thought I'd look into it. I currently have an ATV2 with XBMC installed. For the most part it works pretty good. Icefilms is hit and miss, but I don't use it very often. ATV2 is kinda getting slow and after reading about the FTV I want one. I was wondering if someone can sort me out.
First,
If I buy a unit from Amazon can it still be rooted? I heard there was a software update in June and wondering if it's been locked up like Apple does with their stuff?
Second,
I use a Harmony One remote and heard Flirc works with the Harmony Remote. Can anyone confirm this?
Third,
That same friend who told me bought the FTV said he watched a youtube video on the FTV with XBMC installed on it and said it ran really slow. Now the video was from April, so I'm hoping XBMC has made some big improvements so it works well with FTV.
Thanks,
Chevy
Yes
If you get a FireTV you will need to use URL blocking in your router to block the amazon URLs for updates before connecting the FireTV to your network. Then you will be able to use GeoHot's Towelroot to root it and disable the Amazon updater. You will want to look into SPMC (a modified version of XBMC with special patches for Android devices, etc.)
It general it is much better than ATV2......FLIRC works with Harmony remotes although I haven't got around to setting mine up yet.
All the necessary info is here on the forum. Just read through some of the the threads.
Since I don't wanna make a whole topic,here is something that makes Fire TV chug a little.
Try this expirimental WebGL thingy in Chrome for Android on Fire TV.
http://www.chromeexperiments.com/detail/eye-texture-raytracer/
It even makes my mouse controls lag a bit,but otherwise does a nice job considering how extreme the test is.
Edit:More things to look at on a Fire TV using Chrome or Opera browser.
http://www.threejs.org/
Thanks all. I'm going to get one. One question though, I was looking on eBay and found a bunch that were already rooted and had xbmc or spmc already installed. In the description they were saying "get them while you can as the new version is unrootable". Anyone think it's OK to buy from eBay or just go with Amazon?
Thanks,
Chevy
chevy2410 said:
Thanks all. I'm going to get one. One question though, I was looking on eBay and found a bunch that were already rooted and had xbmc or spmc already installed. In the description they were saying "get them while you can as the new version is unrootable". Anyone think it's OK to buy from eBay or just go with Amazon?
Thanks,
Chevy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it cheaper/more expensive? Definitely get it from amazon. That way it is fully warrantied under your name if you have any problems they will help you. I got mine from Best Buy and it had the firmware 51.1.1.0_user_511069920.. It downloaded the next update automatically which is 51.1.1.0_user_511070220 (the last rootable firmware). I even clicked "check for updates" and it never pushed the un-rootable version.
I think they sent out a limited roll out of the unrootable firmware since the according to amazon this is the same version I have.
sorry cant post the link since im a new user search google for "amazon fire tv firmware" should be the first link
I would recommend to block the updates either on the router by blocking the amazon domains or using adb and disabling the apk which updates the ftv
chevy2410 said:
Thanks all. I'm going to get one. One question though, I was looking on eBay and found a bunch that were already rooted and had xbmc or spmc already installed. In the description they were saying "get them while you can as the new version is unrootable". Anyone think it's OK to buy from eBay or just go with Amazon?
Thanks,
Chevy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was in the same boat as you couple of weeks ago, had a ATV2 got a FTV for someone else and realized how much faster and better it was so I sold my ATV for $250, and bought a FTV for myself. On top of that I bought 2 more to install xbmc and sell
Anyways, the FTV runs wicked fast with XBMC, not sure what you saw but there is a pretty good video here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G23u1TtluE
I'd say just buy one from amazon, too bad they were just on sale for $84 a few days ago and staples even had them down as low as $65 after some coupon.
The rooting is simple and fast and to disable the updates is just 1 command you type in. I wouldn't pay more for a unit that's already rooted unless I didn't know wtf I was doing.
I would recommend to block the updates either on the router by blocking the amazon domains or using adb and disabling the apk which updates the ftv
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know what the URL is for blocking the updates?
The rooting is simple and fast and to disable the updates is just 1 command you type in. I wouldn't pay more for a unit that's already rooted unless I didn't know wtf I was doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty handy at rooting and so forth. I've rooted my wife and myself android phones over the last few years so this should be pretty straight forward. I think I'll just get it through Amazon, just in case I need warranty or something.
Thanks,
Chevy
chevy2410 said:
Do you know what the URL is for blocking the updates?
I'm pretty handy at rooting and so forth. I've rooted my wife and myself android phones over the last few years so this should be pretty straight forward. I think I'll just get it through Amazon, just in case I need warranty or something.
Thanks,
Chevy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are instructions here, http://www.aftvnews.com/ for taking a new box and installing without getting updates and then blocking updates.
Thanks to everyone for all the info. I bought one from Amazon and should have it on Tuesday.
Chevy
Related
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet. But again, this would be mainly used for XBMC.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
DHeffernan said:
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll work fine for that stuff, especially when you root it. It's definitely the best $/performance XBMC box possible.
lolwatpear said:
It'll work fine for that stuff, especially when you root it. It's definitely the best $/performance XBMC box possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What benefit does rooting give the device?
To my understaning it doesn't need to be rooted to run XBMC? But if so, what benefits does rooting give it?
DHeffernan said:
What benefit does rooting give the device?
To my understaning it doesn't need to be rooted to run XBMC? But if so, what benefits does rooting give it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting will allow you to boot straight to XBMC and use it as a launcher:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2790392
I think there might be a way without root, but I didn't bother with that method. Otherwise, you can launch XBMC using an existing app's icon on the default launcher to easily get to it:
http://wiki.xbmc.org/index.php?titl...C_from_an_Existing_App_on_the_FTV_Home_Screen
The problem with not doing one of these things is that in order to launch XBMC, you would need to go to the settings menu, then to the installed applications section and finally launch it. It's way too may steps to do this constantly.
lolwatpear said:
Rooting will allow you to boot straight to XBMC and use it a launcher:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2790392
I think there might be a way without root, but I didn't bother with that method. Otherwise, you can launch XBMC using an existing app's icon on the default launcher to easily get to it:
http://wiki.xbmc.org/index.php?titl...C_from_an_Existing_App_on_the_FTV_Home_Screen
The problem with not doing one of these things is that in order to launch XBMC, you would need to go to the settings menu, then to the installed applications section and finally launch it. It's way too may steps to do this constantly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh I see what you mean now, basically the second part is how my ATV2 is. I have to go to the XBMC icon to launch it.
Yah the rooting would be benefical on the FireTV then as I am trying to make this as user friendly as possible so launching straight into XBMC would probably be their preferred choice anyways.
..
DHeffernan said:
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in Canada and have Netflix, Pandora, etc all working great with VPN. Also, I sold both my Apple TV 2s and replaced them with Fire TVs. I am not looking back. The Apple TVs were dated and showed their age. The Fire TVs with XBMC are incredibly fast. The only thing Fire TVs are missing is AirPlay, but you can download AirPlay receiver apps on the Fire TV that will allow you to beam content easily. Here's an idea: Sell your Apple TV to your friend for $150-$175 (perfectly reasonable price for 2nd Gen), then use that money to upgrade yourself to an Amazon Fire TV for $99 while pocketing the difference.
DHeffernan said:
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet. But again, this would be mainly used for XBMC.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no comparison the hardware in the FireTV is far superior to the ATV2 not to mention you can run tons of android apps on it. The menu and fan art load times are much faster, it feels like a polished product instead of something that could reboot at any minute. XBMC has been much more stable on the FireTV. I sold my ATV2 on ebay for $230 and didn't look back. I suggest you do the same before the bottom falls out of the market for them.
Well I ordered up a FireTV last evening off ebay $130 shipped, cheapest I could find for us Canadians. You guys have a better source?
But I think you guys might have me convinced on selling my ATV2 and switching over to the FireTV, I don't use anything else on the AppleTV besides XBMC and sometimes the Radio app from Apple..
My ATV2 is still running 5.3 so its jailbroken but untethered. I know some version require the tethered jailbreak, so I think mine would bump up in value even more?
DHeffernan said:
Well I ordered up a FireTV last evening off ebay $130 shipped, cheapest I could find for us Canadians. You guys have a better source?
But I think you guys might have me convinced on selling my ATV2 and switching over to the FireTV, I don't use anything else on the AppleTV besides XBMC and sometimes the Radio app from Apple..
My ATV2 is still running 5.3 so its jailbroken but untethered. I know some version require the tethered jailbreak, so I think mine would bump up in value even more?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct you will usually get more money for an untethered jail break. It took a little work to get the FireTV setup the way I wanted it but I am very happy I made the switch. With the money I made from selling the AppleTV I am thinking about getting a second one.
XBMC on FireTV is simply amazing.
I don't have any experience with those streaming add-ons though. My XBMC plays local media only (on smb).
Newcron said:
XBMC on FireTV is simply amazing.
I don't have any experience with those streaming add-ons though. My XBMC plays local media only (on smb).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. I love XBMC on Fire TV. Works great. I've tried streaming add-ons with no issues, although I admittedly haven't watch an entire movie via a streaming add-on. But all-in-all, I'm very happy with the purchase and would buy another if I could justify it with the wife.
No brainer!
XBMC on FIRE TV dominates. ATV2 is a weak dinosaur in comparison.
Hope that helps.
As someone that ran a full house, multiple front end, centralized backend database, XBMC setup on mini-PCs for years before switching to Rokus and a FireTV, I'd call XBMC on FireTV a huge win. Ultimately, you are not going to beat the power and flexibility of a mini-PC running something like OpenElec (an embedded XBMC install), but FireTV gets you access to all the great Android apps and at a price you'd never be able to match with a mini-PC with similar performance. Plus, XBMC on FireTV is easier - it just works.
would love a work up on on best feature add-ons for XBMC , the amount of options and add-ons is overwhelming .
mcsephoenix said:
You are correct you will usually get more money for an untethered jail break. It took a little work to get the FireTV setup the way I wanted it but I am very happy I made the switch. With the money I made from selling the AppleTV I am thinking about getting a second one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
great call on the upgrade. hola android app also works with the stock netflix app to access US netflix from canada with no charge.
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
DHeffernan said:
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. Amazon.com. $99. Ones on Ebay are probably rooted.
jmerrilljr2 said:
Sure. Amazon.com. $99. Ones on Ebay are probably rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In Canada.. FireTV is not officialy sold here. So I can't order it off amazon.
DHeffernan said:
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If $130 is all-in price, then it isn't bad, cheapest would be around $120. If you think it in a different way, if FTV was to be launched in Canada, its price would be something like $110 CAD & with tax would come around $125 CAD (don't know your exact location so tax can differ).
If you don't wanna cross border, I would say ebay is your best bet as local Kijiji would most probably be costlier.
Hi, I want to first thank every body working on this to give us the best experience possible with our aftv boxes.
I know root is currently unavailable for newer aftv versions. So, I was wondering if there is someone currently working on getting that sorted out and if is making any good progress. I wish he/she/they are progressing.
If so, which version is the one is currently being worked on?
PS. Admins, move this to the appropriate forum if needed.
I am also interested by this whole thing, as I got my AFTV from Amazon Germany this week and think that many others will get it from the same batch (unrootable latest version) mine is turned off as I have no way to block the update addresses... It's horror to have a new toy and not be able to play with it...
Of course, I would be willing to test everything you throw at me to get root working
Was thinking of picking up a second Fire TV (my first one is rooted with Xposed and XBMC launcher). I see from your post that new versions from Amazon can't be rooted yet. Anybody know if the ones in Staples are on versions that can't be rooted?
ks-man said:
Was thinking of picking up a second Fire TV (my first one is rooted with Xposed and XBMC launcher). I see from your post that new versions from Amazon can't be rooted yet. Anybody know if the ones in Staples are on versions that can't be rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got mine at staples about two weeks ago. It was the last they one they had at the time, but I was able to root it, no worries.
Yup, I picked one up on Wednesday and was able to root it without issue. They still had a bunch there. Thanks.
hi all,
currently live in uk and thinking of getting an aftv to replace my ageing shuttle htpc
the main use will be for xbmc but ive been reading through some posts and just want to confirm i can install this easily as rooting seems to be getting blocked.?
also, what are your thoughts about purchasing an aftv over another android box
thanks
ratski said:
hi all,
currently live in uk and thinking of getting an aftv to replace my ageing shuttle htpc
the main use will be for xbmc but ive been reading through some posts and just want to confirm i can install this easily as rooting seems to be getting blocked.?
also, what are your thoughts about purchasing an aftv over another android box
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no regrets whatsoever about purchasing my aftv, and my main use for it is xbmc/kodi as well. It plays everything I throw at it just fine. There are some limitations when playing certain rips, but the technicality of all that is beyond me and again I have yet to have any media that wouldn't play just fine.
I don't think anything is different in the UK as far as sideloading apps. Sideloading should be easily accomplished with one the community utilities here on XDA, or just by using ADB. I remember reading something a while ago about XBMC/Kodi not installing on aftv's outside the US, but I believe that has since been resolved....found it - http://www.aftvnews.com/xbmc-kodi-incompatible-with-fire-tv-software-version-51-1-40_user_514005520/.
My next htpc/android type box will most likely be a Chromebox mainly for the options to upgrade memory as well as dualboot options that are out there. I personally have no real desire for android apps on my tv, other than root specific apps. Right now aftv's are going on sale all the time, and the only reason I haven't gotten another is I picked up two Fire Sticks over the holiday and am holding out for a Chromebox build.
I am in the UK as well. XBMC works fine on it. However the UK Fire TV cannot be rooted. This means you cannot access media through the USB port. So it depends on where you store your files, the Fire TV is fine with network storage, but (without root) useless with an external drive.
It's a shame Amazon is clamping down on the fire tv's hackability. Otherwise it's a nice little box, very fast, bluetooth remote, wired network, optical audio out.
thanks for the replies.
my main use is xbmc, which definately looks like it can be sideloaded in uk without a problem so thats good news.
shame about usb media as have a few movies on my ext hard drive but i suppose nas storage is the way to go now days so maybe excuse to upgrade#
ill pick up an aftv in next few days then and look to find the latest guide for xbmc install, cheers
ratski said:
thanks for the replies.
my main use is xbmc, which definately looks like it can be sideloaded in uk without a problem so thats good news.
shame about usb media as have a few movies on my ext hard drive but i suppose nas storage is the way to go now days so maybe excuse to upgrade#
ill pick up an aftv in next few days then and look to find the latest guide for xbmc install, cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
buy it from the US. you get rootable ones here. still
have one
picked up a stick for my old man and side loaded xmbc on it he enjoys it may pick up the game controller for some android and emulator games. none of these functions need root. as for usb storage it was never really meant for that anyways it was built as a hd video player to compete with roku and chromecast it just happens to do more. i many picked it up for wwe app as well due to his smart blueray player being to old for that app.
Some people will disagree but it would have to be rootable for me to buy another one. People complain about low memory issues but I've never experience that because I can store thumbnails on external. That's really my main reason for the hdd since I play my movies & tv from a nas device.
Maybe someone who owns one can say why not but if your going to get one without root--why not save some money & buy a fire tv stick?
navigates said:
buy it from the US. you get rootable ones here. still
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not if you buy it from Amazon you wont. I just bought a second one and it shipped with the latest version of firmware.
You can probably find one at a big box store tho.
Frankly for me, the AFTV was my best purchase in a long time.
Before I got the box, i was running a massive Athlon 955 PC, watercooled, in a huge Antec case. It was still noisy, bulky (and my toddler loved poking it every chance she could get). I was running it just for XBMC, and didn't really have a good setup for accessing other content. The machine was falling apart, and while shopping for a new media PC, i ran across this box, and that it could support XBMC, along with native apps for amazon, netflix, and hulu...
Where i am getting.. a $75 (85 if you include the Nyko game pad) frankly handles XBMC better than the PC, and i don't have to do ridiculous crap to try to get Hulu and Netflix to integrate. It has played all my media perfectly, and the addition of some basic gaming is a real bonus. Keep in mind, most of the benefits are available without rooting.. you can still sideload apps, , you just cant change your launcher, etc.... If you are interested, give it a shot.
So purchased today :good:
Before I plug in and setup should I try and follow a guide to root by blocking updates or am I already screwed as from the uk (got it from a retail currys store)
It's a shame it looks like I won't be able to stream via usb but my main use is xbmc so to be honest I think I may just plug in and figure out how to side load as I'm not as clued up as some in here
MadFlava said:
Not if you buy it from Amazon you wont. I just bought a second one and it shipped with the latest version of firmware.
You can probably find one at a big box store tho.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it depends from where are you picking up your stock from Amazon. I'm in LA and till date I have yet to see a non rootable version come through. I just did a friends who's firetv arrived on Thursday and it was purchased on prime on Tuesday. Infact it was the sweet first version which is an easy way up. I've also seen flavors where you have to put the rom in the sdcard instead of cache and or another flavor where the version is not the first where you have to downgrade to go up. The latest version needed a chmod 777 to be added as the file copy to folder was denied.
Essentially you still get rootable ones from amazon. I suggest if you have friends in LA and or the west coast, I suggest get it shipped there and then have them ship it out to you. Just trying to help.
navigates said:
Well it depends from where are you picking up your stock from Amazon. I'm in LA and till date I have yet to see a non rootable version come through. I just did a friends who's firetv arrived on Thursday and it was purchased on prime on Tuesday. Infact it was the sweet first version which is an easy way up. I've also seen flavors where you have to put the rom in the sdcard instead of cache and or another flavor where the version is not the first where you have to downgrade to go up. The latest version needed a chmod 777 to be added as the file copy to folder was denied.
Essentially you still get rootable ones from amazon. I suggest if you have friends in LA and or the west coast, I suggest get it shipped there and then have them ship it out to you. Just trying to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad there are still a few in the system. I think at this point Id be buying them from a big box store. I have one rooted and one that cant be rooted. Thankfully the non rootable is just the kid's unit so its not THAT big a deal.
MadFlava said:
Not if you buy it from Amazon you wont. I just bought a second one and it shipped with the latest version of firmware.
You can probably find one at a big box store tho.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MadFlava said:
Glad there are still a few in the system. I think at this point Id be buying them from a big box store. I have one rooted and one that cant be rooted. Thankfully the non rootable is just the kid's unit so its not THAT big a deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure which bigbox still carry's the firetv. In LA I couldn't find them at staples or bestbuy. bestbuy used to carry it when it was launched. but I agree the big box stores would most likely have the old stock. I too have one non rooted one for my parents. but I'm gonna switch them out too for the rooted one.
navigates said:
Not sure which bigbox still carry's the firetv. In LA I couldn't find them at staples or bestbuy. bestbuy used to carry it when it was launched. but I agree the big box stores would most likely have the old stock. I too have one non rooted one for my parents. but I'm gonna switch them out too for the rooted one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive seen them at Best Buy and Staples but thats on the east coast.....
The BB in Culver city has loads of AFTV and the fire sticks. In NYC at the minute and 5th Ave and Astoria have AFTV but no sticks.
I picked up another one at Staples as a gift for my dad. It was rootable so Im keeping it and giving him the non rootable one. He doesnt need root and I think would prefer the simplicity of the Amazon launcher.
What are the chances of getting an Android TV ROM put on the FireTV? Is the partial bootloader unlock that's out there enough to do this?
I'm curious what would happen if the Android TV Launcher was sideloaded on the FireTV? I doubt it would be that easy, but I know it's been possible to get Google Play Store working and linked to your account and the ability to show all apps.
Maybe someone with a little more knowledge can expand on this and what else would have to be packaged together for the TV Launcher to work properly.
Dhickory said:
I'm curious what would happen if the Android TV Launcher was sideloaded on the FireTV? I doubt it would be that easy, but I know it's been possible to get Google Play Store working and linked to your account and the ability to show all apps.
Maybe someone with a little more knowledge can expand on this and what else would have to be packaged together for the TV Launcher to work properly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess is it won't work because it requires lollipop stuff. I am currently working on a lollipop build. I have some time off work so maybe I'll be able to make some progress on it.
Android TV Launcher available (4.4 +):
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.leanbacklauncher
Someone to test ?
Antechris said:
Android TV Launcher available (4.4 +):
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.leanbacklauncher
Someone to test ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well the stock Amazon OS is 4.2.2... so...
rbox said:
Well the stock Amazon OS is 4.2.2... so...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very stupide, I was sure it was 4.4. Sorry
rbox said:
Well the stock Amazon OS is 4.2.2... so...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give it a few weeks, I'm sure the AFTV will be updated to Kitkat at least.
RAFAMP said:
Give it a few weeks, I'm sure the AFTV will be updated to Kitkat at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I highly doubt that. The kernel that Amazon is using does not have a kitkat branch. Plus they really have no reason to do that.
CM12...
Awesome!! Looking forward to trying it out!
rbox said:
CM12...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice... Glad I got all my FTV's with partial unlocked bootloader, latest CWM & BootMenu ready to go....
rbox said:
CM12...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
will you still be making the prerooted stock roms?
rbox said:
CM12...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is awesome!
I'd love to know how successful we expect this to be? Not trying to push or anything, of course, but I'm very curious if we have audio and video acceleration working yet? Having seen this I think I'll pick up another Fire TV, but not sure where best to buy, to have best chance of rooting it? Staples or Amazon?
I've currently got an Amazon Fire TV with your kernel boot menu installed, and would be happy to play about with some CM12 builds if it is helpful to have another users perspective. If the network does not work I have an Android compatible USB ethernet adaptor, and also wifi adaptor.
Thanks!!
hearnia_2K said:
This is awesome!
I'd love to know how successful we expect this to be? Not trying to push or anything, of course, but I'm very curious if we have audio and video acceleration working yet? Having seen this I think I'll pick up another Fire TV, but not sure where best to buy, to have best chance of rooting it? Staples or Amazon?
I've currently got an Amazon Fire TV with your kernel boot menu installed, and would be happy to play about with some CM12 builds if it is helpful to have another users perspective. If the network does not work I have an Android compatible USB ethernet adaptor, and also wifi adaptor.
Thanks!!
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Amazon has been the best place to get rootable FTV's. Staples & BB are still sending a high number of rootable FTV's as long as folks follow AFTVNews.com guides on how to Root them without updating them.
---------- Post added at 08:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:42 PM ----------
pbanj said:
will you still be making the prerooted stock roms?
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He will probably still be making them. It just happens that the latest FW update isn't much of an update Features wise. So no rush for an update. Plus Amazon is getting trickier with the FW too. So patience is a virtue..
Y314K said:
He will probably still be making them. It just happens that the latest FW update isn't much of an update Features wise. So no rush for an update. Plus Amazon is getting trickier with the FW too. So patience is a virtue..
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oh im patient i just wanted to know if he was stopping the prerooted ones or not. i wasnt asking for an eta or anything. i just know some devs stop one project when they move onto another
As for CM12, it is very far from something flashable. All I have right now is the boot animation and the "updating packages" dialog. Currently my main problem is that none of the required services are starting, so I have to start them manually. Even doing that, I think I'm not starting everything that is required because as it starts loading up things, it dies because storage isn't set up properly, and bypassing that it kinda just hangs starting some android services. I'll have to enable some debug in init tomorrow to see what's going on with that.
As for prerooted, I'll still be making those. To be honest, CM12 is just a fun experiment for me. I probably won't be using it much because I watch a lot of Amazon Prime, and Android TV currently doesn't support it. I didn't really hear anyone saying anything earth shattering is contained in the newest update, and I really need to spend some extra time on it to figure out what's wrong with SuperSU, so that's why I haven't released a new one yet.
rbox said:
As for CM12, it is very far from something flashable. All I have right now is the boot animation and the "updating packages" dialog. Currently my main problem is that none of the required services are starting, so I have to start them manually. Even doing that, I think I'm not starting everything that is required because as it starts loading up things, it dies because storage isn't set up properly, and bypassing that it kinda just hangs starting some android services. I'll have to enable some debug in init tomorrow to see what's going on with that.
As for prerooted, I'll still be making those. To be honest, CM12 is just a fun experiment for me. I probably won't be using it much because I watch a lot of Amazon Prime, and Android TV currently doesn't support it. I didn't really hear anyone saying anything earth shattering is contained in the newest update, and I really need to spend some extra time on it to figure out what's wrong with SuperSU, so that's why I haven't released a new one yet.
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That's awesome. If you can pull off CyanogenMod, it'll be epic! I know it's super early in the process, but forgive me, you got me all giddy and I couldn't hold back.
Y314K said:
Amazon has been the best place to get rootable FTV's. Staples & BB are still sending a high number of rootable FTV's as long as folks follow AFTVNews.com guides on how to Root them without updating them.
Thanks for the info - I did not realize it was still so likely to be rootable, so was unsure on buying a second.
Happy to say, I picked one up just now from Staples for $71.18 after tax in Duluth, GA. Rootable. Got that price by using a 15% off coupon, which was on their own website: http://www.staples.com/coupons
Great price, and rootable device!
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hearnia_2K said:
Y314K said:
Amazon has been the best place to get rootable FTV's. Staples & BB are still sending a high number of rootable FTV's as long as folks follow AFTVNews.com guides on how to Root them without updating them.
Thanks for the info - I did not realize it was still so likely to be rootable, so was unsure on buying a second.
Happy to say, I picked one up just now from Staples for $71.18 after tax in Duluth, GA. Rootable. Got that price by using a 15% off coupon, which was on their own website: http://www.staples.com/coupons
Great price, and rootable device!
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Nice.. I've gotten all my Rooted FTV's thru Staples site since Staples can really make things an awesome deal with their coupons...
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So I've gotten A LOT farther than I expected. I thought the kernel would have been a much bigger issue than it turned out to be. Anyway, right now I can get to the stock launcher and it looks like SystemUI is doing a crazy crash loop, so eventually the thing just dies. I'm going to try to get the Android TV launcher worker though. Then deal with SystemUI.
EDIT: Well I got the Android TV launcher starting... not sure what's supposed to happen with it though...
I had pretty much given up hope that i'd find anymore rooted units about a month ago until today when I walked into a store and bought 3. Is there still a supply of these rootable fire tv's?
danknasty said:
I had pretty much given up hope that i'd find anymore rooted units about a month ago until today when I walked into a store and bought 3. Is there still a supply of these rootable fire tv's?
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you could get them on ebay. the key is to ask what is the serial. Its hard but a few give the serial and with that you can find out if its rootable. Did you find a few or are you still looking for it. If you did buy three. would you sell any one of them for the community?
Picked up one at staples from 7/14 so I can root it. Tech guy was nice enough to find one for me after bringing out a few from 3/15 so they're still out there. just have to sort through there inventory.
killerb777 said:
Picked up one at staples from 7/14 so I can root it. Tech guy was nice enough to find one for me after bringing out a few from 3/15 so they're still out there. just have to sort through there inventory.
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After making this post I have received 3 more rooted units in the mail today from staples. I am beginning to wonder if they stopped making these...
I've actually picked up 7 in the last 3 weeks all at staples....they still keep getting them in.
Most of them are 51.1.0.1 even...I think it'll still be a while you can easily pick these up. I have literally put forth no more than 5% effort in finding these
arunningpir8 said:
I've actually picked up 7 in the last 3 weeks all at staples....they still keep getting them in.
Most of them are 51.1.0.1 even...I think it'll still be a while you can easily pick these up. I have literally put forth no more than 5% effort in finding these
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I actually ordered like four a week ago and they were all unrootable so I basically gave up hope at that point but now seems like they are back.
danknasty said:
I actually ordered like four a week ago and they were all unrootable so I basically gave up hope at that point but now seems like they are back.
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There's your problem...you need to actually pick yourself up and walk into a store to get them
Seriously, what "normal" people think of going to a staples to buy something like a fire tv? That's why there are so many rootable units on the shelves there
arunningpir8 said:
There's your problem...you need to actually pick yourself up and walk into a store to get them
Seriously, what "normal" people think of going to a staples to buy something like a fire tv? That's why there are so many rootable units on the shelves there
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Actually I've honestly had better luck ordering from staples than going into one. The one time I did the manager actually told me without me asking these were not the rootable ones. Lol mabye it's just where I live.
Must be lol, although I've picked them up all over "congested" areas in Indiana ( I drive a lot for work ).
:shrug: who knows with these things i guess
I have a rooted unot and considering to update to the newest firware. Any benefits to keep it rooted? All I do is xbmc and amazon prime videos.
esxps said:
I have a rooted unot and considering to update to the newest firware. Any benefits to keep it rooted? All I do is xbmc and amazon prime videos.
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I like the ability of having a custom rom that is around the corner. The absolute imperative for me is SNES EMU and the Sega Masger System EMU that are charged on google play. and the Quicksupport teamviewer that only works on root for desktop sharing. I can always debug/tweak and help my friends/parents fix their firetv's. Rooted for me is very important.
Sucks living in Australia..
I wanna get another rootable Fire TV for my dad but I can only order online so my chances are slim.
I need a friend living in the States.
DN38416 said:
Sucks living in Australia..
I wanna get another rootable Fire TV for my dad but I can only order online so my chances are slim.
I need a friend living in the States.
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If you pay for shipping. I can help you. I'm in Los Angeles. Send me a PM. There is a seller on ebay that may have rooted ones brand new but I suggest you message the person directly. I've purchased one for myself and once it arrives I can confirm what version it is. If you need I can stop by at bestbuy to see if they have rootable ones but chances are slim. just trying to help out.
*** REMOVED LINK BY ME AS THE UNIT THEY SELL IS NOT ROOT ABLE ***
Reply from NPS/Ebay seller.
Hi,
Thank you for your interest in this item. The batch number is 305.
Sincerely,
Barbara
The NPS Store eBay Sales Dept.
here is all the amazon fire tv ROOTED.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amazon-Fire-Tv-Digital-HD-Media-Streamer-CAN-BE-ROOTED-INSTALL-XBMC-SEALED-NEW-/141554629836?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20f5503ccc
_u2pop_ said:
here is all the amazon fire tv ROOTED.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amazon-Fire-Tv-Digital-HD-Media-Streamer-CAN-BE-ROOTED-INSTALL-XBMC-SEALED-NEW-/141554629836?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20f5503ccc
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It's a tad expensive, but I suggest buying them from the seller auction_discount. I've bought two of them, and he did a great job rooting them. He sets up XBMC, Stick Mount, Busybox, and other essential apps.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/121570606665
shutterslaps said:
It's a tad expensive, but I suggest buying them from the seller auction_discount. I've bought two of them, and he did a great job rooting them. He sets up XBMC, Stick Mount, Busybox, and other essential apps.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/121570606665
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Id rather pay slightly more to get a rootable sealed one vs someone else doing it for me. I just got one from the person in the link above.
The earlier link that I had purchased was a bad one as it seems someone had updated the firmware and repackaged it. The box came opened with plastic.
navigates said:
Id rather pay slightly more to get a rootable sealed one vs someone else doing it for me. I just got one from the person in the link above.
The earlier link that I had purchased was a bad one as it seems someone had updated the firmware and repackaged it. The box came opened with plastic.
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ah, I agree. I'd rather have one that was rootable as well. I made the mistake of ordering one off of amazon, and it the software was way too new. I returned it and set out for another AFTV. I don't why I didn't pick up a rootable one instead of one that was already rooted.
Yesterday I went into the Navy Exchange on the base I work at, and saw they finally put out AFTV's. I whipped out my phone and checked all of the serial numbers on the ones on the shelf. BOOM! ALL of them were rootable. I picked up three of them right away. I'll probably go back and buy more soon. They all come with 51.1.0.1_user_510055620.
esxps said:
I have a rooted unot and considering to update to the newest firware. Any benefits to keep it rooted? All I do is xbmc and amazon prime videos.
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I'm in the same boat right now. It seems like the new updates are providing much of the same experience that rooted boxes originally had. Besides sixaxis and rbox's xposed module, I really don't utilize any of the advantages of a rooted unit over a stock one..
I'd just hate to kill a rooted box. It'd be like shooting a black rhino.
spyder3 said:
I'm in the same boat right now. It seems like the new updates are providing much of the same experience that rooted boxes originally had. Besides sixaxis and rbox's xposed module, I really don't utilize any of the advantages of a rooted unit over a stock one..
I'd just hate to kill a rooted box. It'd be like shooting a black rhino.
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I thought rbox released the latest firmware pre-rooted?
spyder3 said:
I'm in the same boat right now. It seems like the new updates are providing much of the same experience that rooted boxes originally had. Besides sixaxis and rbox's xposed module, I really don't utilize any of the advantages of a rooted unit over a stock one..
I'd just hate to kill a rooted box. It'd be like shooting a black rhino.
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There are fundamental benefits to rooting and rBox has the latest one rooted. Its really simple to keep up with the rooted versions specially when you have the boot menu with recovery installed. For starters the latest version still does not allow ntfs mounts on usb. Then again remote quick support needs root for screen sharing remote as that is imperative if you build boxes for family and friends and if they need any software help.
I always land up helping my parents remotely. I have two sessions connected through teamviewer. one to the firetv and one on the pc and I'm golden. All tweaks updates and fixes work perfectly. except rom/firmware updates.