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[UPDATED] Android Market Apps I bought for my Hero: Are they "paid for" on my Desire?
Updated April 18, 2010
Now I get it. See Post #6 below. Google's dragging their ass on "fingerprint" approval. They need to be SHAMED virally across the web for sheer incompetence -- or intentional malice toward purchasers of a phone that competes with their Nexus One. "Do No Evil" my ass.
========== My Original Posting =========
I bought maybe 6-7 apps for my hero -- 2 different keyboards, "Executive Assistant", some kind of alarm clock... When on my Hero, even after factory reset and resetting up my phone, when I went to MARKET and "My Downloads", those paid for apps showed up as available to install again on my Hero.
I have been using my Desire -- but thus far only for Wifi as I set it up and get acquainted with the phone. Perhaps stupidly (!) I am still using the Hero as my "phone" til I have all my apps and widgets and layouts replicated on my Desire.
Though I do not have my carrier's SIM card installed in my Desire, 90% of the device works fine, especially all wifi usages, Market downloads, email, web, etc... I did set up my Gmail account as well.
It's one's Gmail account which is your linkage to PAID FOR apps, via Google Checkout. So, I am surprised that when I select "My downloads" i don't see any indication of paid for apps.
Is this tied to a SIM card? (if so seems ridiculous)
RELATED: I can't even find BETTER KEYBOARD app in the Market now, nor "SMART KEYBOARD" ... Does the market auto-filter out apps that do not run on Android 2.1 ?
thank you
the paid apps are tied with your google account.
(no longer relevant)
From what I read, some paid and free apps should appear as soon as google finishes some signature thing related to that! so it's a matter of time.
By the way, do you see paid apps in general? For me, I always had to use Market Enabaler on the Hero to open Market to paid apps.
A temporary solution, you can use your Hero to extract the paid applications (apk files) using Root Explorer, copy them to the Desire SD card and install them using any file manager. The only limitation here is that you have to keep checking for updates on the Hero.
Re: Android Market > Apps I bought for my Hero: Are they "paid for" on my Desire?
as far as I know, and experts correct me if wrong, the ability to get access are directly connected to the sim from which you connect.
which is why market enabler used to spoof the apn's from which paid apps were available.
with no sim card you should only be able to get free apps or nothing at all.
I live in Sweden, no paid apps.
was at friends last night who has an old UK sim card, popped that in and I got access to some paid apps. but still with the limitations as previously discussed in this forum. (waiting for Google to get it straightened out)
so, yes & no, the apps are tied to your sim, cuz it tells the phone which apn/ network your phone is connecting from...
Sent from my HTC Desire using the XDA mobile application powered by Tapatalk
I just read a few other threads, with links to the official Android Market forums. First off, I have to ask some basic vocabulary:
What are "protected apps" ?
I have no idea what this means.
Second: salahag, thanks for your reply. I didn't respond initially because I didn't understand it at all. Paid apps showed up in my Hero from day 1 and that was for me October 2009. I was baffled because I had no context for even thinking "is everything that's available showing here?" because by default my brain had no reason to pose that question. I just assumed the Market worked one way, and I was seeing everything the way everyone else sees it.
I'm suddenly quite baffled by this emerging mystery now that I can't find a bunch of apps for my DESIRE. But now the mystery of "where are my paid apps that I bought on my Hero?" is solved, replaced by "why are hundreds of apps that were available on my Hero not available on my Desire?"
XDA-devs to the rescue, via another thread here about "Missing apps in the Market" linking to this posting in Android Market forums:
by nprussell - 4/8/10 (LINK to this posting at Android Market forums)
Hi all,
I'm an Android developer from the XDA forum & VillainROM.co.uk. I've primarily worked on the Hero, but I received my Desire yesterday.
I can confirm that I too am missing several apps from the market. I also have an answer to your question.
First things first, it's protected apps that are missing from the market. There are generally two reasons why apps will be missing from the market.
(1) When a new ROM/Phone is released, the manufacturer, in this case HTC, sends the build to Google, which includes a 'Fingerprint' (a unique line of text which governs its market access) in the build.prop file. Generally, it states the name of the phone and Android version in the fingerprint. With Root & system write access, this fingerprint can easily be changed... but we don't have that luxury right now.
Once Google approve the build, the fingerprint will be added to their allowed database to view protected apps on the market.
(2) The other cause for apps missing from the market in builds (such as twidroid, layar, barcode scanner etc) is that these apps require permissions to use the camera/auto focus. They are NOT protected apps. If the XML permission files are missing from system/etc/permissions, then Google Market will simply block these apps from showing.
So again... to answer your question... we'll see the protected apps as soon as either:
a) HTC chase up Google
b) Google get around to activating the fingerprint
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Un-frikkin-believable.
It's like the equivalence of a dumb low-IQ bureaucrat holding up a long line for Drivers' License renewals at the "Department of Motor Vehicles". No reason at all for the stupid delay other than some asshole letting some work order sit on his desktop til he feels like getting to it.
No wonder the author (gogol) of that other related thread recommends consumer activism or we just stand in line each time and just wait to get ****'d in the ass by beaurocratic process that sounds WAY more like Microsoft than "the smartest guys in the room" at Google -- who pride themselves on only hiring Ivy-league grads and equivalents, like from Stanford. They ought to be ridiculed out of town with this.
gogol writes: I really cannot believe Google screws this great Android platform like this. Think about the next firmware update, from Google or HTC ... We will AGAIN get this issue ... Then wait again very long. I am really mad and hate this.
If one of you guys is capable of writing a good professional article or blog regarding this issue, we could spread the voice all over the internet / twitter / facebook / blogs / news so Google could "end" or "fix" this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm game to SHAME GOOGLE into getting their f-ing act together or be ridiculed for incompetence -- everywhere we can post that message on the web. And they have the nerve to criticize APPLE for their ridiculous App Store totalitarianism?
.
xrrkrrkx said:
I live in Sweden, no paid apps. Was at friends last night who has an old UK sim card, popped that in and I got access to some paid apps. but still with the limitations as previously discussed in this forum. (waiting for Google to get it straightened out)
so, yes & no, the apps are tied to your sim, cuz it tells the phone which apn/ network your phone is connecting from...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you clarify this further. Thank you for information related to SIM card needing to be in use in order to access paid apps -- god only knows why -- it's retarded to me.
But is it correct that I have read other places that there are LOCALIZATION ISSUES? where some apps are only available to certain regions? (Like YouTube does) -- Or can you shoot that one down as rumor. I don't get this. Open source OS. Google's entire revenue model based on ads. More phones = more ad impressions = more money to Google. What possible motivation is there to block access to apps in a marketplace that I am willing to pay for -- where Google gets % of all sales, as well as transactional revenue thru Google Checkout? -- Something doesn't make sense. And usually when that's the case, SOMEONE IS BEING PROTECTED in some corporate deal.
What's the story. Is this another CARRIER-TAINTED example of holding customers hostage? If so, I can't wait til the day we can blow up that Carrier-driven model that strangles the free marketplace. They should make it or break it based on direct delivery of services at competitive pricing. I am so tired of Boardroom Protectionist Policies agreed to by major competitors, to ensure a baseline profit well above anything deserved if there was open competition. ... But I could be off on my little side rant and it has nothing to do with this issue, in which case, .... ooops. sorry
salahag said:
From what I read, some paid and free apps should appear as soon as google finishes some signature thing related to that! so it's a matter of time.
By the way, do you see paid apps in general? For me, I always had to use Market Enabaler on the Hero to open Market to paid apps.
A temporary solution, you can use your Hero to extract the paid applications (apk files) using Root Explorer, copy them to the Desire SD card and install them using any file manager. The only limitation here is that you have to keep checking for updates on the Hero.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many thanks - I never even thought to do this. Rooted my Hero, copied the apks (they're in /data/app-private) to the Desire and installed. I now have National Rail and Locale Lockscreen back again
Ta.
you can use your Hero to extract the paid applications (apk files) using Root Explorer, copy them to the Desire SD card and install them using any file manager.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I meant to ask: Is Root Explorer an app from the Market (I'll check of course), and does it only work on rooted Heroes? Mine is unrooted. But I have used Astro app many times for moving stuff from my computer to Hero, and now my Desire. So, it would just be a matter of my knowing which folder/directory to look in on my Hero to access the .apk files.
(EDIT: I see now from daern above: they're in /data/app-private ... well Astro Explorer shows me root folder and data folder but both say "directory is empty", so I am guessing unless I root my Hero i can't access this stuff... right?)
So, thanks from ME also!
Easy. Install "InstantRook.apk" on the Hero (Google for it, download directly to the device and run from Astro).
Once installed, it will announce "your device is rooted". Now fire up Root Explorer and note that you can see the /data folder. Copy the private apk files to /sdcard and away you go.
It really is as easy as that. It may stuff your Hero (it didn't affect mine in the slightest) but as I'm assuming that you're replacing it anyway, the worst it would require would be a hard-boot anyway.
Took < 5 mins
Here is an app I made to quickly and easily change marketplace settings. Similar apps exist already, but this one has a few features I've not seen in the other ones. This project was more of a way for me to learn about homebrew dev, but it resulted in a useful program so nothing wrong with that
Source
This app is open source. It is hosted on Google Code. If anyone would like to help contribute, PM me and we'll discuss getting you added.
What you can do
Change OEM marketplace - You can choose from any of the 8 OEM stores, or view a combined market with all 8 at the same time.
Change MO marketplace - I'm working on getting as many as possible included. The app will ask kindly to submit if yours is a new one.
Change the maximum file size cap over 3g - Download larger apps and podcasts over 3G without needing a wifi connection
Lock the settings - Prevents your settings from reverting back in a day or two when the marketplace updates itself
Who can run this?
You need a root unlock. So either a full unlock or WP7 Root Tools with this app marked as Trusted.
Changelog
Beta 2.0.3 - 6/7/12 - Going off of the error reports I received from yesterday's release, I added better error handling to hopefully alleviate those problems.
Beta 2.0.2 - 6/6/12 - Added a better error handler. Users are now prompted with the option to submit bug reports, so I may better track down issues.
Beta 2.0.1 - 6/4/12 - Fixed a bug that would cause the app to crash if no MO store was configured on the device. The app also informs you if it's not set to Trusted in WP7 Root Tools.
Beta 2 - 5/31/12 - After spending too much time working on a rewrite, the next beta is ready. I've changed a ton of things under the hood, but the big new feature is viewing all OEM markets at the same time. I've also released the source as of this version, though I am not speaking for it's quality. Some parts are more polished than others.
Beta 1.4 - 5/2/12 - Added a few new mobile operators. Added country flags to MO selection screen. Fixed more crashed.
Beta 1.3 - 5/1/12 - Added a slew of new mobile operators, along with an option to remove it (for contract-free phones, direct from OEM, etc)
Beta 1.2 - 4/29/12 - Fixed crashing bug. Added Telekom MO (thanks contable). Added OEM logos.
Beta 1.1 - 4/28/12 - Removed device spoofing (it can break DRM, thanks for the heads up GoodDayToDie). Added Sprint MO.
Beta 1 - 4/28/12 - Initial release
Thanks to
Heathcliff74 for the wonderful WP7 Root Tools SDK
GoodDayToDie for his homebrew efforts, which I use for file IO
balcsida for providing new icons
It doesn't launch on my Titan...so it will probably need a higher level of unlock than a Dev unlock.
You'll need "root" unlock, meaning either full-unlock or WP7 Root Tools and the app marked as "Trusted".
@ken52787: Very cool! I was actually working on something very much like this. Would you mind sharing your source code? If I can merge what I was working on into what you've already got, that would be great.
One very big concern, though: changing the OEM name in DeviceTargetingInfo (which is what I assume you're doing to make apps like Nokia Drive work) is extremely dangerous. Although I'm not sure exactly what the trigger is (suggestions have been things like leaving it changed for more than 24 hours, or changing it more than 5 times), changing that value can permanently break the Marketplace DRM on your phone. All your Marketplace apps will stop launching, and you won't be able to install more. The only solution we know of is a hard-reset or a restore point; returning the registry value to the original OEM name does not help.
GoodDayToDie said:
You'll need "root" unlock, meaning either full-unlock or WP7 Root Tools and the app marked as "Trusted".
@ken52787: Very cool! I was actually working on something very much like this. Would you mind sharing your source code? If I can merge what I was working on into what you've already got, that would be great.
One very big concern, though: changing the OEM name in DeviceTargetingInfo (which is what I assume you're doing to make apps like Nokia Drive work) is extremely dangerous. Although I'm not sure exactly what the trigger is (suggestions have been things like leaving it changed for more than 24 hours, or changing it more than 5 times), changing that value can permanently break the Marketplace DRM on your phone. All your Marketplace apps will stop launching, and you won't be able to install more. The only solution we know of is a hard-reset or a restore point; returning the registry value to the original OEM name does not help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yikes! I was not aware of this. I took that out and reupped the xap.
And yes, I'll share the source soon, I just want to clean it up a bit first since it's rather sloppy at the moment
ken52787 said:
Here is an app I made to quickly and easily change marketplace settings. Similar apps exist already, but this one has a few features I've not seen in the other ones. This project was more of a way for me to learn about homebrew dev, but it resulted in a useful program so nothing wrong with that
The initial beta is a little rough around the edges, but should be stable. Please report any oddities you notice and provide feedback and suggestions.
What you can do
Change OEM marketplace - Included are Acer, Dell, Fujitsu, HTC, LG, Nokia, Samsung, and ZTE (although only HTC, LG, Nokia, and Samsung have accessible marketplaces)
Change MO marketplace - Included are AT&T, Orange, Sprint, and Verizon (I had a hard time finding other marketplaces. If you are on a carrier other than these, please send me your settings so I can include them, the program will automate this for you with your permission)
Change the maximum file size cap over 3g - Download larger apps and podcasts over 3G without needing a wifi connection
Lock the settings - Prevents your settings from reverting back in a day or two when the marketplace updates itself
Who can run this?
You need a root unlock. So either a full unlock or WP7 Root Tools with this app marked as Trusted.
Changelog
Beta 1.1 - 4/28/12 - Removed device spoofing (it can break DRM, thanks for the heads up GoodDayToDie). Added Sprint MO.
Beta 1 - 4/28/12 - Initial release
Thanks to
Heathcliff74 for the wonderful WP7 Root Tools SDK
GoodDayToDie for his homebrew efforts, which I use for file IO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not working with my mozart?
life25ak said:
not working with my mozart?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What kind of unlock do you have?
curious... why are XAPs being posted in this sub-forum when their is a WP7 Software Development sub-forum?
nice looking app, though. curious as to how you 'locked' the Market.
would love to add that into my version of this app, Market Select.
The Software Development sub-forum always seemsed more focused on general app development rather than tweaks to the OS. Last time I was reading that forum, it seemed like it was mostly stuff using the official APIs, too. Maybe I should start reading it again, though...
You can lock in changes to Marketplace configurations by setting read-only on the XML files.
@OP: Thanks for the quick fix, and you're welcome for the tip! The 1.1 version works well on my phone. Two (related) suggestions, though:
1: The messageboxes the pop up at first run block the UI from loading. If the UI doesn't load within a few seconds (10 or so) the OS will kill the app. You may want to cause them to pop up on a delay or something...
2: There's no option to send your MO (or OEM) files after the initial messagebox prompt. I'd like to send you the T-Mobile US files (not that the TMoUS apps are super-exciting) but the app was killed on me before I could click it! I can go pull them off the filesystem manually, of course...
Thx for this app.
I have sent you the settings for Telekom Germany (T-Mobile DE), would be nice if you could add them...
GoodDayToDie said:
@OP: Thanks for the quick fix, and you're welcome for the tip! The 1.1 version works well on my phone. Two (related) suggestions, though:
1: The messageboxes the pop up at first run block the UI from loading. If the UI doesn't load within a few seconds (10 or so) the OS will kill the app. You may want to cause them to pop up on a delay or something...
2: There's no option to send your MO (or OEM) files after the initial messagebox prompt. I'd like to send you the T-Mobile US files (not that the TMoUS apps are super-exciting) but the app was killed on me before I could click it! I can go pull them off the filesystem manually, of course...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See what I mean about sloppy coding and wanting to clean it up before releasing the source
App works good on my hd7. Although during first run it made a backup. Then asked me if I wanted to sent my carrier setting since you don't have them. I was going to then the app crashed and never gave me the option again. App runs fine other than the first run when it crashed.
Sent from my HD7 T9292 using XDA Windows Phone 7 App
I posted a quick update. This one fixes the crashing bug.
Thx for the quick update...
Sent from my OMNIA7 using XDA Windows Phone 7 App
Very Cool..!!! Thank you! Htc Arrive
v1.1 and v 1.2 are crash
it mean i install this app then set trust on root...it open but quickly get out
so;
whats the problem !?
Doesn't load on my Dev Unlocked TITAN.
Says something about an error occurred while reading current store config
VegaNovus said:
Doesn't load on my Dev Unlocked TITAN.
Says something about an error occurred while reading current store config
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need a full unlock or root access with WP7 Root Tools. Dev unlock is not enough (the phone doesn't like me messing about in the file system)
Also, I just posted an update. No changes other than adding a bunch of new MOs. Thanks to everyone who submitted them! I have some ideas for beta 2, if only I could find some time to work on it I also plan on releasing the source when I get that version out.
Using 1.3 with Samsung Focus... Set the Trust to ON through RootTools as well.
I Get the "an error occured while reading your current store config".
If i click on OK application shows the main screen briefly and then exists. Otherwise shows the following error:::
CreateFile failed for \My Documents\Zune\PimentoCache\Keepers\LKKG_MOStoreConfig.xml! GetLastError: 2
Thanks.
You're sure it's two Ks ("LKKG_MOStoreConfig.xml")? That's a typo, then. It would explain why you're getting an error of File Not Found as well.
Hi, there!
App allows to log in with discrete gesture to apps and web-sites that accept traditional text passwords.
I need volunteers to try it out, so that I could get data (gestures that people choose) for research - to anayse method potential problems and conceptual soundness.
If you would like to try this app and same time ok to install study version that requires Internet access permission (to send to me data about app usage) - please check it out.
Traffic used is minimal (app sends 1-2 Kb of data for every gesture, depending on its complexity, but guess you will know better from your traffic monitoring apps).
Instructions / how-to are here:
jo.jaborandi.org.ru
(sorry for not-active links, forum forbids posting links for new members)
apk is on Downlod page
Couple of known problems described on Known Problems page. However, app was tried on only few devices yet, so it's not impossible you'll encounter new problem - would be great if you report it.
There's Contcat form on site.
Just play with method in "Practice", or try it with accounts (not your mobile baking of course , or create test account on my site, if you don't want to use it with your personal ones.
When you fed up with the app, please visit Post-participation form page on site and fill form (12 questions + optional your own feedback). To access this form you will need to enter "Feedback code" (it is displayed in app's main menu).
App itself has help page, but it is not up to date. Site is - please read help there.
Please check at least beginning of text on homepage to figure out what is difference from any arbitrary gesture you like (to avoid confusion when starting to use it)
!!!Please don't use this app for tasks of critical security!!!
If you have any questions - let me know - I'll be checking this thread too of course
p.s. Of course app sends only data about use of itself, nothing else, sends it encrypted with my public key, I'm not a hacker etc. But I'm sure if you volunturely test android apps you know better than me that regardless of trustworthiness of app, you should have no sensitive data on your sdcard when you install app with Internet access.
p.p.s. I tried to optimize info-site for mobile, it should look ok in stock browser and in Dolphin, but I couldn't make it look good in Opera Mobile yet. Sorry for inconvenience.
Thanks and have a good evening everyone!
Edit : I mean system/app folder for the title.
I manage to strip down my Android to bare minimum, and so far I'm VERY happy with the result.
My device is Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (GT-N8000) but I suppose it is applicable to other Samsung or even any other Android devices (probably custom ROM too) , since I did cross research to wide varieties of stripped devices (including S series, Sony and such).
So far the debloating guides I've encounter don't go this far. I'm left with 68 files within system/app folder.
Google doc spreadsheet :
http://bit.ly/1c647yf
By jermitano
https://spreadsheets.google.com/spr...1gdDJRekl4QmkyNmIzUmRvX2h3UDVkQXc&output=html
As I remember, his spreadsheet was one of my resource to find the useless apps. I will attempt to compare both spreadsheets, and maybe add some more infos to mine.
Scribd link (also attached as PDF) :
http://bit.ly/1gmRGAy
I shared the google doc to public with editing permitted.
So if you're planning to debloat on your device or have complete infos on each apk, you can add it up there so might help anyone attempting to debloat their devices.
note :
Keep in mind, I use my tablet for laptop replacement, which means I don't use it for phone, sms and such (altho they're still working properly) and I disabled contact sync too, so I'm left with contact list stored within my SIM/phone.
I don't use GPS on my tablet too, so I removed GPS location through network (but it still working as well)
I have hardware keyboard at my disposal so in that table I removed SamsungIME.apk since I can use my hardware keyboard for initial setup and such.
Original thread here ;
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2653655
Enjoy, and cheers. Hope this helps.
Google doc spreadsheet updated
http://bit.ly/1c647yf
Been couple of days, on heavy load (watching videos, playing 3D games, youtube and such) my Note 10.1 last about 15+ hours with this minimal settings. Of course I also turned on battery saving mode and turning off haptic feedback. I don't need all those.
Might last a week + if I put it on standby, since the battery consumption seems very flat and the only app listed within "battery" are only LCD screen. Phone, sms, GPS, etc, working great. Booting up is a snap, as well as starting apps and such. No crashes or force closes. AT ALL.
Some settings won't open when I tap them, but no crashes too. Simply, this is the android device of my dream.
Still need help and more infos on the safely removed apks. Or if you have other device than samsung, and want to do this to yours, I could use a bit of cross reference on what's the bare minimum of APKs.
Edit : Now I want to test out www.addictivetips.com/mobile/how-to-install-any-app-as-system-app-on-android and see if I did hard reset on it.
http://www.addictivetips.com/mobile/how-to-install-any-app-as-system-app-on-android
Work marvelously. Need to set the permissions on the app.
For commercial apps, it will install to .asec in app-private. Use ES Explorer to convert it to ,apk. Uninstall, then install as usual. Find the apk at data/app.
Need to have the /lib files within the /system/lib in order all these to work.
Also, remember to set the permissions to both the apk and the lib files.
Thanks to IrfanCore http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=50543779&postcount=28
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
Click to expand...
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.