Develop Bugs

Recommended Apps/Themes [Updated 4.13.12]

This is a list of recommended apps to make your Android experience an awesome one.​
I don't really post any games because... well, games are your liking and you get those depending on what you like xD
I'll be adding apps over time so keep on coming back and checking!
I feel like the Ace has a lot of apps and themes to choose from. Here is a list of the apps I believe are epicly awesome.
What's a phone without space and some right app management? For that, I recommend s2e. It moves all the Dalvik Cache to the SD card. When I first installed it, it freed up 92MB of internal memory that I didn't knew what getting used up.
S2E: https://market.android.com/details?...ult#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsInJ1LmtyaWt1bi5zMmUiXQ..
A pretty good ram manager for any phone would be Ram Manager. It keeps your phone running smoothly and worry free.
Ram Manager:https://market.android.com/details?...WFydHByb2plY3RzLlJBTU9wdGltaXphdGlvbkZyZWUiXQ..
For backups and more app management, I highly recommend Titanium Backup. One of the best apps out there hands down. You can batch move all your apps to SD, back up all your apps and system data or just apps if you like. Its so epic, it even backs up all the data on a game. Since I like to switch things a lot on my phone, I use a lot of back ups and Titanium always has me covered.
Titanium Backup https://market.android.com/details?...DEsImNvbS5rZXJhbWlkYXMuVGl0YW5pdW1CYWNrdXAiXQ..
Now for themes; I highly recommend the ICS theme from AChep. This theme completely spices up your phone to the newest and fancy ICS. It changes up everything. Its the BEST ICS theme you'll find out there.
ICS Theme: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1313722
For some really awesome ICS live wallpapers, here are some epic ones;
ICS Phase Beam Live Wallpaper: https://market.android.com/details?...pZC5saXZld2FsbHBhcGVyLmljc2NsYXNzaWMubGl0ZSJd
And Ice Cream Sandwich Live WP: https://market.android.com/details?...kLmxpdmV3YWxscGFwZXIuaWNzd2FsbHBhcGVyLnBybyJd
The second one is a paid app but its really worth the money.
Anyway if you want more kickass themes, check out this post! They rock
More Themes!:http://forum.cyanogenmod.com/topic/17567-list-cm7-theme-chooser-themes/
Afterwards, I present to you the awesome Roboto Font. They new font looks really cool and a different font gives a whole new feel to your phone. To install it, you must first install Font Changer, extract the font and put it in the Font Changer folder in the SD.
Roboto Font: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1309621
Font Changer: https://market.android.com/details?...sImNvbS5tYXJ0aW5vMms2LmZvbnRjaGFuZ2VybGl0ZSJd
Next up is an awesome add-on. It gives your status bar a whole new makeover with the ICS style. This add-on also hooks up your phone with the ICS transitions. In my case they're really fast and work wonderfully. Another epic piece of work from CM7.2's dev.
[ANIMATION][STATUS BAR] ICS for CM7.2 by J.A.F. :http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1360899
To mess with your system files or just check out whats inside your SD, I recommend Root explorer or ES file explorer. Whichever one fits your taste.
Here's another ICS look changer! Themes your lock screen to the ICS style! Just flash it and everything will be fine.
ICS Lockscreen:http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=18603870&postcount=1
Root Explorer: https://market.android.com/details?...sImNvbS5zcGVlZHNvZnR3YXJlLnJvb3RleHBsb3JlciJd
ES File explorer: https://market.android.com/details?...wxLDEwOSwiY29tLmVzdHJvbmdzLmFuZHJvaWQucG9wIl0.
Now if you want to get rid of all of those ads (Or mostly) I present to you AdFree. This app blocks out most ads from getting to your device.
AdFree: https://market.android.com/details?...DEsImNvbS5iaWd0aW5jYW4uYW5kcm9pZC5hZGZyZWUiXQ..
Now, what's an ace with a whole bunch of customization but still with the same old bootanimation? Here's where this thread comes in handy; its one of the largest repositories of bootanimations. Pick one that suits your taste and enjoy!
Bootanimations: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1348731
If you like cloud storage; DropBox is what I recommend. The simple UI makes everything really easy to use. If you don't feel like going through the hassle of connecting your phone via USB just to pass a simple file, you can always DropBox it through your PC and download it to your phone. (Lazy, I know )
DropBox: https://market.android.com/details?...251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5kcm9wYm94LmFuZHJvaWQiXQ..
Here's the best notepad ever. The only issue I have with it is that you can't set it as a sticky note widget. But besides that, it does EVERYTHING you can possibly think of.
Evernote:https://market.android.com/details?...esult#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5ldmVybm90ZSJd
The stock gallery app is kind of slow and sluggish sometimes so here's a little something to speed up your picture viewing experience.
Quick Pic: https://market.android.com/details?...51bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5hbGVuc3cuUGljRm9sZGVyIl0.
Need some help in math class? Here's a scientific calculator to make things a little easier!
RealCalc: https://market.android.com/details?...sMSwxLDEsInVrLmNvLm5pY2tmaW5lcy5SZWFsQ2FsYyJd
Now for web browsing... There's a whole bunch of browsers out there and I can honestly say I've tried them all except one I didn't download because I had the mini version already. Turns out that one that I didn't try was actually the best one. I'm talking about Opera. Opera is smooth, slick and speedy as hell. Its got decent features to use. If you want a max customizable browser, go for Dolphin HD.
Opera Browser: https://market.android.com/details?...251bGwsMSwxLDEwMiwiY29tLm9wZXJhLmJyb3dzZXIiXQ..
Dolphin HD: https://market.android.com/details?...wsMSwxLDEsIm1vYmkubWdlZWsuVHVubnlCcm93c2VyIl0.
A new browser has been discovered. Its fast and the UI looks really good. Its called Nineski Browser.
Ninoski Browser:https://market.android.com/details?...251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5uaW5lc2t5LmJyb3dzZXIiXQ..
For music, I really like Power AMP. The UI is very cool and it has a couple of themes you can use to switch it up a bit. The equalizer is pretty good too and it has some customization that could change up the way you listen to music on your phone. It offers a 15 day trial and then you have to buy the app. Its another one thats really worth the money.
Power Amp: https://market.android.com/details?...GwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5tYXhtcHouYXVkaW9wbGF5ZXIiXQ..
If you like to keep an eye on what your usage is, whether its data, calls or sms; Traffic counter is the one for you. It counts every single MB of data that enters or exits your phone and is pretty accurate.
Traffic Counter: https://market.android.com/details?...wsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5jYXJsLnRyYWZmaWNjb3VudGVyIl0.
Here's another counter. This one details everything you can possibly know about your battery!
Battery Monitor Widget:https://market.android.com/details?...eloper#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEwMiwiY2NjNzEuYm13Il0.
Now this next one will make your life A LOT easier. This next app can make a widget of almost ANYTHING you can think of in your phone. Its called Widgetsoid and it works wonders.
Widgetsoid: https://market.android.com/details?...rch_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5qaW0yIl0.
There are a lot of people having the "Insufficient storage available" problem when downloading apps through market, Here's a fix:
MarketFix:https://market.android.com/details?...sMSwxLDEsIm5ldC5mZWxpcGVhcm9uLm1hcmtldGZpeCJd
Here is another beastly app that EVERY ROOT/CUSTOM ROM USER MUST HAVE.Which ever one fits you. Point is, you need to have it.
ROM Toolbox:https://market.android.com/details?id=com.jrummy.liberty.toolbox&feature=search_result
I never thought I'd put this app in here because of all the flaws but they finally fixed it. Facebook 1.8.0. The update is completely in sync with the web version and everything just simply works wonderfully.
Facebook:https://market.android.com/details?...1bGwsMSwxLDIwNSwiY29tLmZhY2Vib29rLmthdGFuYSJd
And well, if Facebook doesn't work for you, here's a complete (and better in my opinion) replacement!
Friendcaster:https://market.android.com/details?...wxLDEsInVrLmNvLnNlbmFiLmJsdWVOb3RpZnlGcmVlIl0.
This next app speeds up the reading and writing speed of your SD card for less waiting time. If you're like me that waits an eternity for the SD to get scanned at boot, wait no more and install this!
SD-Booster:https://market.android.com/details?id=de.mehrmann.sdbooster&feature=search_result
If you want a complete iPhone look, check out this thread!: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=21384446#post21384446
Since our phone doesn't have an LED notification, here's a complete replacement! (Must have a kernel that supports it!)
BLN:https://market.android.com/details?...wsMSwxLDEsIm5lbGRhci5ibG4uY29udHJvbC5mcmVlIl0.
This next app fakes a call to get you out of those weird and awkward situations!
FCM:https://market.android.com/details?...DEsImNvbS5hZ2lsZXN0b3JtLmZha2VjYWxsLmZyZWUiXQ..
Want to know how fast data is transferring on your phone? This widget is for you!
Network Speed:https://market.android.com/details?...result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsIm5ldHNwZWVkLnB0Il0.
If your phone gets lost or stolen, you can lock it or track it simply by texting it!
Lost Phone:https://market.android.com/details?...DEsImNvbS5nYWRnZXRwcm9qZWN0cy5sb3N0cGhvbmUiXQ..
Here's a little something to make your phone look bigger! Really works and looks cool. Some apps won't adjust to the size though.
LCD Density:https://market.android.com/details?...wsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5iaXJkYXBpLmFuZHJvaWQuZHBpIl0.
I personally like having a loud phone. But since our Ace's speaker is a little too low, I fix that up with Volume+. Works wonders. There's a free and paid version. The paid lets you set your volume higher. Here's the link:
Volume+:https://play.google.com/store/apps/...GwsMSwxLDEwMiwiY29tLlRFU1QuYW5kcm9pZC5sdmgiXQ..
This next one is a file manager. But I mostly use it to make back up apks of apps. Its Astro. If my friend wants an app I have, I just back it up and bluetooth it to him. Simple =D
Astro:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.metago.astro&feature=search_result
This next one is one I found out about recently since I didn't like the dialer of a rom I was using. Afterwards, it became my replacement dialer for every rom I use xD. Here's exDialer. Has some pretty cool themes too.
exDialer:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.modoohut.dialer&feature=search_result
Since I'm a musician, a tuner is really important. This one always has my back. I'm talking about gStrings
gStrings:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.cohortor.gstrings&feature=search_result
The only calculator you'll ever need in ALL of Android.
Handycalc:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.mmin.handycalc&feature=search_result
System Tuner Pro might be a paid app, but there's no other task manager like it. Highly recommend it.
System Tuner Pro:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ccc71.pmw.pro&feature=search_result
The next one is a complete replacement for the FaceBook chat. I honestly like it better than the normal chat on the desktop website too xD. Here's Go chat!
Go Chat!:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spartancoders.gtok&feature=search_result
Wanna know how your governor handles your CPU? Want to keep more control over your battery consumption? CPU Spy can give you all that detailed information!
CPU Spy:https://play.google.com/store/apps/...251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5idmFsb3Nlay5jcHVzcHkiXQ..
Use MSN but can't find a good app for it? MSN: Mercury has your back!
MSN: Mercury:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=im.mercury.android&feature=search_result
Since some roms don't have USB Tether and there are too many apps out there for it, I'd have to say PdaNet is hands down the best out there.
PDA Net:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pn.helper&feature=search_result
Looking for a Twitter client? Look no more! This fuild, fast and really smooth app will have your back at all times!
Twicca:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.r246.twicca&feature=search_result
Have problems with sound recording? Here's Tape-A-Talk! Recording high quality audio.
Tape-A-Talk:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=name.markus.droesser.tapeatalk&feature=search_result
Feel like reading sometimes but don't know what to read? Definitely have to check out Wattpad! You'll never see books the same way.
Wattpad:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=wp.wattpad&feature=search_result
Well, this about sums up the epic apps on my phone for now. If you have any other recommendations, please post it in the comments and tell us why you like it!

Thanks! Finally got Roboto as my font...
And the apps recommendation are pretty useful to maintain the phone too!
Roboto just rocks!
Sent from my Galaxy Ace running J.A.F CM 7.2 Odexed using XDA App

MrChaosDesire said:
Thanks! Finally got Roboto as my font...
And the apps recommendation are pretty useful to maintain the phone too!
Roboto just rocks!
Sent from my Galaxy Ace running J.A.F CM 7.2 Odexed using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. There are a whole bunch of really good apps out there that people can't find. Glad I helped!
But I just realized you're using the Odexed rom version. Can you tell me what the difference is?

No idea what's the difference, it just feels the same to me, but then again I don't rely on Quadrant/Antutu so no idea on the performance
Sent from my Galaxy Ace running J.A.F CM 7.2 Odexed using XDA App

You should include sony's ICS too, since there are some difference to both themes, I'm just using AChep's one cos it feels better than it.
Sent from my Galaxy Ace running J.A.F CM 7.2 Odexed using XDA App

The odexed one has much more free space in data/app.
Anyway the roboto font can be flashed as a zip file to save the hassle.

Hey, I know it's not the place for it, but, since you seem to know a lot, I have to ask... Do you know an ICS theme for CM7.2 but in green instead of blue ?? I'm not a big fan of blue

consegregate said:
The odexed one has much more free space in data/app.
Anyway the roboto font can be flashed as a zip file to save the hassle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh? No wonder I could store more themes on my phone then when testing out Deoxed.
Sent from my Galaxy Ace running J.A.F CM 7.2 Odexed using XDA App

Thank you very much for your outstanding effort man!
I didnt know that phase beam live wallpaper was already released, now I got it and it goes like a charm on my ICS ace
Just to improve your ICS experience, I highly recommend 360 launcher, Ive been always a fan of GO launcher but Ive found this one and Im definitely in love with it. It has a ICS theme and it works perfectly alongside with those ICS transitions.
There you go :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1358736&highlight=360

alexnm said:
Hey, I know it's not the place for it, but, since you seem to know a lot, I have to ask... Do you know an ICS theme for CM7.2 but in green instead of blue ?? I'm not a big fan of blue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm.. green? Not really sure. Haven't seen one yet. Theres also transparent and another version though, you dont have to get blue. Ill PM you if I find a green one though

alcachofita said:
Thank you very much for your outstanding effort man!
I didnt know that phase beam live wallpaper was already released, now I got it and it goes like a charm on my ICS ace
Just to add a better ICS experience, I highly recommend 360 launcher, Ive been alwasy a fan of GO launcher but Ive found this one and Im difenetely in love with it. It has a ICS theme and it works perfectly alongside with those ICS transitions.
There you go :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1358736&highlight=360
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. Ill check it out!

Can you make me please flashable version ICS ROBOTO. THANKS
Sent from my GT-S5830

if got the ont installed like an normal .apk and i love it i am on stock rom
Sent from my GT-S5830 using xda premium

Greats apps i ever seen. Thanks a lot
Enviado desde mi GT-S5830 usando Tapatalk

joryS5830 said:
Can you make me please flashable version ICS ROBOTO. THANKS
Sent from my GT-S5830
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you want to flash a font? You just install it through font changer and that's it. I've no idea about flashing fonts, just installing through apps.

If when instal font changer say me don't have right version busybody and then go very slow.
Sent from my GT-S5830

Good work bro.
Sent from my GT-S5830 using xda premium

joryS5830 said:
If when instal font changer say me don't have right version busybody and then go very slow.
Sent from my GT-S5830
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm.. I have no idea how that could happen. what rom are you using?

Apk which you give advice font changer me don't possible work.
Sent from my GT-S5830

Use. CM7.2 WITH. Kernel ketut without oc.
Sent from my GT-S5830

...

...

Misc Notes
Finishing tid-bits then uploading, will need feedback please be patient
The pictures are images from my phone I took a while back; this is clearly not verizon :x

Another ROM, nice.
☞ Sent from here ☜

Been a while
I havent Use MIUI since my epic days!! nice to see it back.... is there any plans in upgrading this to 4.3??

Mr_Jay_jay said:
I havent Use MIUI since my epic days!! nice to see it back.... is there any plans in upgrading this to 4.3??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe 4.3 and 4.4 get MiCode releases at the same time.
I'll just do 4.4 when it's available

Nice! Been waiting for this!
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium

Anyone have the apk for I can install gapps? Thanks
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app

xda23 said:
Anyone have the apk for I can install gapps? Thanks
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look in the 'Market App' and use the G-apps installer present, it is also on the MIUI forums

Not being able to turn off the nav bar is a deal breaker for me. Liked the rom, but no need for the nav bar on the S4.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk

Lochman79 said:
Not being able to turn off the nav bar is a deal breaker for me. Liked the rom, but no need for the nav bar on the S4.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is just an early alpha, a test to see if the frameworks will run correctly.
The nav-keys are there in-case HW keys are not functional so feedback can still be given and they can be disabled by removing:
qemu.hw.mainkeys=0
in build.prop, this text entry turns the on-screen softkeys on and removing it will disable them
Edit: the next version-up will be far more 'complete' this was just built today on a CM10.1 base that was just built today :x

No more updates?

Google Account
Cannot find a way to add Google Account. Only offers Exchange, MI Cloud, Mail??????
I was able to setup Google in Browser with my GMail account, but......
And when I try to start playstore after installing the apk,, it starts then goes back to the icon. I think because it needs the Google account info first.
I do have all the other recommendations in FAQ working, including root, etc.
FIXED: http://en.miui.com/thread-3998-1-1.html
Go to this page. Create an account to allow download of the Google apps installer. Make sure you enable all of the settings including ok to adding Google framework. After doing all of this you will see a slew of Google downloads including the playstore app. My mistake was locating an apk file and installing standalone. That will not work. I uninstalled that APK and used the link I show. Then it works

Docmjldds said:
Cannot find a way to add Google Account. Only offers Exchange, MI Cloud, Mail??????
I was able to setup Google in Browser with my GMail account, but......
And when I try to start playstore after installing the apk,, it starts then goes back to the icon. I think because it needs the Google account info first.
I do have all the other recommendations in FAQ working, including root, etc.
FIXED: http://en.miui.com/thread-3998-1-1.html
Go to this page. Create an account to allow download of the Google apps installer. Make sure you enable all of the settings including ok to adding Google framework. After doing all of this you will see a slew of Google downloads including the playstore app. My mistake was locating an apk file and installing standalone. That will not work. I uninstalled that APK and used the link I show. Then it works
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to the miui market look for gapps and theres a app I think its the second one then install it open inside is the different gapps download flash in recovery restart there
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Truballa4real7 said:
Go to the miui market look for gapps and theres a app I think its the second one then install it open inside is the different gapps download flash in recovery restart there
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am an old time MIUI user back in my Nexus One days when I left IPhone for my first Android. Coolest MIUI stuff is the ultimate amount of themes out there. It does take a lot of extra effort in customizing the way you like a setup, but I find MIUI so refreshing compared to the typical stuff available. I actually find this really responsive including consistent 32Mps download speeds speedtest.net in my home here in Las Vegas. To bad more developers here aren't into working with MIUI. Even though it's still using 4.2.x, everything I need works, including Samsung WatchOn that was posted here on another ROM as a standalone recovery installation with a Kit Kat 4.4.x ROM.
Have you tried the full latest MIUI download for the I9505. Been trying to download that for the last three days. REALLY slow site
Miss the days when there were those English packs that pretty much weeded a lot of the Chinese stuff out, but I can live with that too :good:
Edit: Just saw your join date here same as me...Jan 2010 and you also had the Nexus One. Probably ran into some time or another back in those olden days if I did a search here......
PPS...not much traffic so I am taking a little libery in thread drift too

Docmjldds said:
I am an old time MIUI user back in my Nexus One days when I left IPhone for my first Android. Coolest MIUI stuff is the ultimate amount of themes out there. It does take a lot of extra effort in customizing the way you like a setup, but I find MIUI so refreshing compared to the typical stuff available. I actually find this really responsive including consistent 32Mps download speeds speedtest.net in my home here in Las Vegas. To bad more developers here aren't into working with MIUI. Even though it's still using 4.2.x, everything I need works, including Samsung WatchOn that was posted here on another ROM as a standalone recovery installation with a Kit Kat 4.4.x ROM.
Have you tried the full latest MIUI download for the I9505. Been trying to download that for the last three days. REALLY slow site
Miss the days when there were those English packs that pretty much weeded a lot of the Chinese stuff out, but I can live with that too :good:
Edit: Just saw your join date here same as me...Jan 2010 and you also had the Nexus One. Probably ran into some time or another back in those olden days if I did a search here......
PPS...not much traffic so I am taking a little libery in thread drift too
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol yeah been here a while and i have had android since the Tmo G1 had many other android phones since always liked miui as well had it on my n1 and loved it and I know what you mean about the English packs.. Lol
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

OK, a new update is coming tomorrow.
Now that I understand this phone a bit more I can do a more stable version with the next revision.
I'm going to also include the software camera that comes with Xiaomi phones as well, I'll need feedback on it so I'm going to put it in another flashable zip independent of the download link for MIUI.
Also 4.2.2 is cool and all that but I've been prepping a 4.4 base for MIUI v6 as well and working on a solution for OTA update as well.

Tquetski said:
OK, a new update is coming tomorrow.
Now that I understand this phone a bit more I can do a more stable version with the next revision.
I'm going to also include the software camera that comes with Xiaomi phones as well, I'll need feedback on it so I'm going to put it in another flashable zip independent of the download link for MIUI.
Also 4.2.2 is cool and all that but I've been prepping a 4.4 base for MIUI v6 as well and working on a solution for OTA update as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am totally sold on going back to MIUI. I forgot how much custom stuff was possible. So include me. More than happy to test stuff too before posting if you want help. Spent three days trying to download from the MIUI world site the slighter later, but bloated version which I assume would have been compatible. I9505. But failed at installing in recovery. I have one app that refuses to work correctly with 4.3 or 4.4 updates, but works perfectly under 4.2, but I can live with updates to newer. I basically have to delete cache files everytime before starting the app. Annoying, but do-able.
PS...what local folder are themes that are downloaded stored in. I couldn't get a .mtz file to install when I manually went on the MIUI world site. Using the THEME app on the phone works. Just have to get past the Chinese texts to figure out how to individually apply separate items such as lock screens etc.
EDIT: The prior MIUI theme installers allowed to pick and choose what aspects of a theme you wanted to install. Could not see how to do this currently, unless I'm missing something.
Keep up the good work...thanks!!!

i really cant wait. i hate the nav bar. other than that everything works great even lte

fennix said:
i really cant wait. i hate the nav bar. other than that everything works great even lte
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edit build.prop to kill the Nav bar. It's posted in the thread.

Isnt there any Miui based on KitKat?
Sent from my GT-I9505G using Tapatalk 4

Well, now that CM is dead. Where do I go for updated ROMs with the features I liked?

I have been trying some of the other roms here for the Nexus 5x. resurrection, pixel rom, pure nexus. I have figured out that there are only four things I REALLY need in a ROM. all the rest is fluff. Im sure everyone has their own list.
1. Ability to run rooted firewall so my device isnt open to the world and whatever app devs think they want to know about me.
2. Dark theme for longer battery life and easy eye strain.
3. Some version of Privacy Guard so that some random calculator app isnt sending my list of contacts to some app developer in China.
4. A blocklist that is integrated into the dialer and messenger like CM so i can just touch a number or text and say block.
SO I am using the last CM13 nightly before they went to 14.1. I tried the last CM14.1 and trying to get dark mode to work even with Substratum and several different skins gave me really random results, like it looked good but couldnt see keyboard input in Messaging, or one of the roms didnt even have a messaging app so I tried an old AOSP one floating around on Play and it was terrible (and no block option). I would love to update my phone to Nougat but really feel like I'm stuck back here for a bit. If any of you know some Nougat roms i could try for my 5X that address the features above, please let me know.
Thanks!

I reccomend you AICP. It's preety similar to CyanogenMod but with more customizations.

How is OmniROM these days?

AICP
Akopps said:
How is OmniROM these days?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
they are working on it but its based on AOSP and as such there doesnt seem to be privacy guard. plus the default dialer doesnt work so you have to uninstall it and use the Google dialer which i really dont want to do for privacy reasons.
@fedesandor
thanks for the AICP recommend. it looks like Nexus 5x development has stalled but ill keep an eye on that rom. their download site doesnt come up for me so ill keep checking. it looks like ill have to wait for a Lineage release or a CM derivative Nougat rom.
thanks for your suggestions.

dcarrco said:
2. Dark theme for longer battery life and easy eye strain.
3. Some version of Privacy Guard so that some random calculator app isnt sending my list of contacts to some app developer in China.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2. Nexus 5X has IPS LCD, so there shouldn't be any impact on battery life. Only OLED displays can absolutely shut down the pixels, which in fact reduces energy consumption.
3. Isn't that native in Marshmallow and up? I mean app permissions.

I use Resurrection Remix, has all the CM features plus some others really useful
About the privacy guard thing, since MM it is built in native on the system right?
dcarrco said:
they are working on it but its based on AOSP and as such there doesnt seem to be privacy guard. plus the default dialer doesnt work so you have to uninstall it and use the Google dialer which i really dont want to do for privacy reasons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the "OT" but what are the concerns about using google dialer? I use to install it always and remove aosp dialer because it is updated in google play with good features

Pure Nexus is the way to go with this device.

Didn't try CM14 or AICP /Resurrection, which base on it, but the old PrivacyGuard was definitely more comfortable&useful than Nougat-AppSettings. But be honest: all those switches gave you a feeling to manage anything and made no smarmy app safe.
DarkTheme doesn't give longer battery-life, as said before.
AOSP-dialer allows to define blocked numbers.
I recommend AOSP: PureNexus or Slim, without GApps and with clean 3rd party apps.

rp158 said:
...clean 3rd party apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
e.g. Amazon App Store?

@neth15, I use this one

@Javi22 i have tried resurrection remix and had some trouble with the dark theme, but maybe i have been deluded about saving battery with dark themes anyway. but i have gotten used to having a more subtle phone screen so that bright stuff hurts my eyes.
@neth15 regardless of the technology, more light = more power doesnt it? isnt that just math? ill do some searches on the different type of display tech. maybe i am thinking old math.
@rp158 the permissions that are cooked into nougat dont seem as comprehensive, plus those are the ones that google stuck in there. i think they call it the fox guarding the henhouse. i appreciated privacy guard because it was added by CM (maybe a derivative of earlier google stuff) and seemed to pop up more often then the inbuilt permissions. the reason i even want a non-stock rom is so i dont have every google app telling google what sms i get, what numbers i dial, and where i go. i know it may be a futile gesture at this point, but i still feel a little stubborn about it.
and the blocklist thing is ridiculous. i tried AICP and i could manually enter a number to block but couldnt figure out how to block from the call log or add the BLOCKED contact i have stuck some 75 numbers under. it could be user error, but the old CM integrated blocklist was sweet. i have had a serious stalker for six weeks now and i have to block three or four numbers a day.
i wanted to try the latest PureNexus last night but even after following directions to the letter multiple times (wipe,flash,reboot) i couldnt get past the "android is starting" screen so i guess i have something to try today.

dcarrco said:
@neth15 regardless of the technology, more light = more power doesnt it? isnt that just math? ill do some searches on the different type of display tech. maybe i am thinking old math.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK no. Displays combine red, green and blue subpixels to create other colors. So if the screen is supposed to be black, subpixels still shine, but at different rates and ratios. Maybe not that hard, but I guess the difference is minimal to none. Correct me if I'm wrong.
BTW I'm using PureNexus + Substratum + ModernUI, pretty sick
Right now I reinstalled to the latest version with no problems. Just flash newest factory image, newest TWRP, PureNexus, GApps and SuperSU in this order. Works just fine.
EDIT: And yes, I'm using OpenGapps.

I'm using DirtyUnicorns 7.1.1, great rom

@neth15 i just got purenexus to install by using the dynamic gapps instead of opengapps. which opengapps did you use? i tried to use open_gapps-arm64-7.1-pico-20161215.zip and that didnt seem to work. what are you using for a themeable SMS app? i tried to use AOSP messaging and it doesnt theme, and the xda themeable one from the Substraum Domination thread crashes repeatedly. https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/themes/theme-domination-theme-layers-t3265238. anyway ill keep working on it.

@dcarrco I use nano, on their site they say it contains basics to make GP work + some things, that are not available in GP (face recognition in Smart Lock I guess, but I'm not sure, thinking just by looking at install log).
I use SMS in Facebook Messenger, so sorry, idk What about Google's Messenger?

ZLevente said:
I'm using DirtyUnicorns 7.1.1, great rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah? i used dirty unicorns for a while back when i had a galaxy s3... a long time ago
ill check it out. getting stuck on themed messenger and good blacklist now...

i just tried CM14.1 and the blacklist there is almost useless. i guess ill have to wait until the features i liked are returned to a later version and stick with CM/lineage
or spend some time finding a good quality Call/SMS blocklist/blacklist manager that works well and integrates to my ROM well. i dont really understand why there isnt more energy going into these features. yeah sure, circle menus and cool animations are interesting, but having to deny 10 calls a day from marketers seems like a much larger waste of time. i hear daily from co-workers how may marketing calls the get, what a drag it is, how much time and energy slowly accrues dealing with that. iphone people cant even figure out a way to silence that stuff. at least in android we had something. now with nougat the pay apps like extreme call blocker dont integrate to SMS and the best fatures (like hanging up on the person instead of sending them to VM) dont even work. arggh. well. frustrating.

ok. i looked at Google Dialer and Google Messenger. they both allow the kind of thing i want, to select a message or call and add that number to BlockList. the only piece still missing, for some reason, is the ability to block UNKNOWN and PRIVATE callers. CM used to do that. any idea if its coming back?

CM aint dead, it is rebranded
[ROM][Official] CyanogenMod/LineageOS 14.1 for Nexus 5X (bullhead)

@Android-Desire I have been reading all that but so far not much happening. I'm keeping my eye on it and have posted over there that I'd like them to keep the blacklist stuff. we shall all see.

Subtratum stability?

I'd like to get some black subtratum theme for my A1 but one thing worries me if its gonna decrease stability of my phone even by slightest bit, like performance, or if its likely to cause any problems (visual or technical) after android updates, or i will have uptade the theme every time something changes visually in OS. One thing to note is that all i need is some black layout for my oreo (menus, default apps like calendar, keyboard, dialer, lock screen, etc), im not interested in customising any third-party apps, not even google apps. Also to note, im using Nova Launcher and wondering if there are no comptability issues with it.

costage said:
I'd like to get some black subtratum theme for my A1 but one thing worries me if its gonna decrease stability of my phone even by slightest bit, like performance, or if its likely to cause any problems (visual or technical) after android updates, or i will have uptade the theme every time something changes visually in OS. One thing to note is that all i need is some black layout for my oreo (menus, default apps like calendar, keyboard, dialer, lock screen, etc), im not interested in customising any third-party apps, not even google apps. Also to note, im using Nova Launcher and wondering if there are no comptability issues with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use substratum with swiftblack theme it is stable . If you uninstall first all overlays s in substratum manager and then update the theme and then reapply them after each update you dont have many bugs. Sometimes there are some bugs but they fix them . I dont think there is a decrease in phones performance. There is no issue with nova launcher.The thing you should do first is disable the autoupdate of apps in playstore. Update the apps when a new version of the theme is out. I use substratum with my mia1 with april update and with my s7(oreo). With my mia1 i use the nexus or pixel guide in swiftblack theme.

costage said:
I'd like to get some black subtratum theme for my A1 but one thing worries me if its gonna decrease stability of my phone even by slightest bit, like performance, or if its likely to cause any problems (visual or technical) after android updates, or i will have uptade the theme every time something changes visually in OS. One thing to note is that all i need is some black layout for my oreo (menus, default apps like calendar, keyboard, dialer, lock screen, etc), im not interested in customising any third-party apps, not even google apps. Also to note, im using Nova Launcher and wondering if there are no comptability issues with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is stock Android. Substratum works without issues.
Sent from my Xiaomi Mi A1 using XDA Labs

I use Pitch Black. It's perfect. The only problem you might get is if you have apps set too auto update. As some overlys have vto be set to app version. So YouTube etc can cause hiccups. But the Developer normally updates them as soon as new updates are out. Don't worry too much its easy to fix.

I've updated to the latest June patch with 8.1 Oreo. I've rooted with magisk and substratum works without any issues. No lags or performance problems. Battery also doesn't drain.
I'm attaching a screenshot . Using Pi Dark Theme

Guys im not going to root my phone, all i want is black themed system, not apps other than stock tools from android. Can i install it without applying it to other apps like YouTube, Facebook and all that? And does it cause any glitches after updates as a clean replacement for standard white theme from oreo? I will pass if its gonna bring any extra trouble for me, i simply dont want to deal with it anymore in the future, it just annoys me but a black theme instead white would be great.

costage said:
Guys im not going to root my phone, all i want is black themed system, not apps other than stock tools from android. Can i install it without applying it to other apps like YouTube, Facebook and all that? And does it cause any glitches after updates as a clean replacement for standard white theme from oreo? I will pass if its gonna bring any extra trouble for me, i simply dont want to deal with it anymore in the future, it just annoys me but a black theme instead white would be great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not getting the gist of what we are explaining. We cannot post the black theme overlay you want because warez is not allowed in the forums. For one, you will need Substratum + you need to buy the Andromeda add-on if you're not going to root. Andromeda will use ADB commands from your PC to enable theme support on your Mi A1. Also, when you access themes through substratum, you can select which apps to enable the overlays on. You can skip the other apps and just theme the Settings app, framework and SystemUI. You will need to update the themes through Substratum whenever an update arrives for the theme you are using. If you are thinking this through too much, I would suggest stay away from theming.
Sent from my Xiaomi Mi A1 using XDA Labs

joeyhuab said:
... when you access themes through substratum, you can select which apps to enable the overlays on. You can skip the other apps and just theme the Settings app, framework and SystemUI. You will need to update the themes through Substratum whenever an update arrives for the theme you are using. If you are thinking this through too much, I would suggest stay away from theming.
Sent from my Xiaomi Mi A1 using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, i think i will pass then. That sounds distracting enough for me. Even if its just a periodic update to the theme it will eventually piss me off on occasion when something suddenly breaks, and id rather have the least amount of distractions at the cost of worse design.

costage said:
Thanks, i think i will pass then. That sounds distracting enough for me. Even if its just a periodic update to the theme it will eventually piss me off on occasion when something suddenly breaks, and id rather have the least amount of distractions at the cost of worse design.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most themes only breaks on third party apps. Settings app, SystemUI and Android Framework updates are usually minimal and doesn't lead to crashing. Updating the overlay through Substratum then rebooting fixes the issues easily.

Ohh allright then

joeyhuab said:
This is stock Android. Substratum works without issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can u help me with the process of installing substratum themes

The_Runner said:
I've updated to the latest June patch with 8.1 Oreo. I've rooted with magisk and substratum works without any issues. No lags or performance problems. Battery also doesn't drain.
I'm attaching a screenshot . Using Pi Dark Theme
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi , how do you root your phone ? I only unlocked bootloader

ahmed dzico said:
Hi , how do you root your phone ? I only unlocked bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mainly followed the guide.
After updating to the June patch ( i had already unlocked my bootloader before May Patch)
1. Booted to latest twrp and made a back-up of boot .Renamed it to boot.img .
2. Then i installed magisk and patched the boot image.
3. Then from fastboot i booted with the Patched image . And installed magisk via 'Direct Install' method.
The phone rebooted. And it was rooted.
PS. In case u want the patched boot img for June, I'm leaving a link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OvO4dx_pOudfVM2veWvVotVL6_iOxwtG/view?usp=drivesdk

Question OnePlus Launcher

Maybe I didn't search hard enough, but anyone know if it's possible to install the OnePlus launcher on the Pixel 6 Pro? I successfully installed, but it refused to load, even one install that was reported to work on any Android phone. I'm using ProtonAOSP with gapps.
I bought a Pixel 6 Pro out of love for its superior night camera which is fabulous for catching northern lights here in Alaska, but I absolutely love the OxygenOS launcher on my OnePlus 8 Pro. It's a weird request, I know.

All I have to say is,"why?"
Coming from One+ and Samsung..... All users flash roms to come to a Pixel UI and you want a OP launcher on a Pixel? I'm stumped
I'd recommend Nova7 as it's a better fit for phones than OP launcher.
If it's a tinkering matter I totally understand,but, OP on Pixel?

You can also try lawnchair launcher 12. I was missing a few things after moving from 1+ 8 pro to P6 but lawnchair did the trick for me. Basically a pixel launcher with some more customization.

psychotropic said:
Maybe I didn't search hard enough, but anyone know if it's possible to install the OnePlus launcher on the Pixel 6 Pro? I successfully installed, but it refused to load, even one install that was reported to work on any Android phone. I'm using ProtonAOSP with gapps.
I bought a Pixel 6 Pro out of love for its superior night camera which is fabulous for catching northern lights here in Alaska, but I absolutely love the OxygenOS launcher on my OnePlus 8 Pro. It's a weird request, I know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which features exactly are you looking for?
There are several available launchers on a Pixel, I can't think of any feature set that OP has that is not available, since you can customize about anything, including icons and how animations/gestures work.

As others have said. What's the point?
Anyway, installing the APK will not be sufficient as the OnePlus launcher also relies on a number of native libraries.
You will need figure out exactly which libraries and make them available in /system/lib(64) via a Magisk module.
Too much hassle for what ...

Specifically, I really like this one touch close all apps button. It's a good visual decluttering for me versus memory issue. If I feel overwhelmed by everything I have open, tap the one button and it all feels clean again.

avid_droid said:
All I have to say is,"why?"
Coming from One+ and Samsung..... All users flash roms to come to a Pixel UI and you want a OP launcher on a Pixel? I'm stumped
I'd recommend Nova7 as it's a better fit for phones than OP launcher.
If it's a tinkering matter I totally understand,but, OP on Pixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know! I'm weird!

arvylas said:
You can also try lawnchair launcher 12. I was missing a few things after moving from 1+ 8 pro to P6 but lawnchair did the trick for me. Basically a pixel launcher with some more customization.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll give it a look.

Closing the apps in that way is not recommended and actually worsens battery use. Doesn't do anything for memory use either really as the phone has plenty and manages it well enough. This is why it has been gotten rid of in later versions of Android.

psychotropic said:
I'll give it a look.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And if you're rooted with lawn chair just use quick switch in magisk and you'll have all you need.

400ixl said:
Closing the apps in that way is not recommended and actually worsens battery use. Doesn't do anything for memory use either really as the phone has plenty and manages it well enough. This is why it has been gotten rid of in later versions of Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eh, I charge it enough. It really is more of a psychological visual decluttering for me. I know, it's really best to let Android manage your open apps.

If you scroll all the way to the left you get a clear all

psychotropic said:
Maybe I didn't search hard enough, but anyone know if it's possible to install the OnePlus launcher on the Pixel 6 Pro? I successfully installed, but it refused to load, even one install that was reported to work on any Android phone. I'm using ProtonAOSP with gapps.
I bought a Pixel 6 Pro out of love for its superior night camera which is fabulous for catching northern lights here in Alaska, but I absolutely love the OxygenOS launcher on my OnePlus 8 Pro. It's a weird request, I know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[APP] [PORT] [MODDED] [10+] ONEPLUS launcher 4.6.5 [NEW UPDATE]
A modified version of ONEPLUS launcher version 4.6.5, ported for use on any rooted ( and / or ) TWRP compatable Android 10/11 device. Unlike other OnePlus launcher ports, this includes: A fully functional dark mode that respects the system wide...
forum.xda-developers.com
I remember using this on my pixel 2xl. Hasn't been updated in a minute though but it will do the job

One thing i like most about One plus launcher is to hide apps with fingerprint.
Left swipe to reveal but with fingerprint.
Is there any launcher which has this feature?

Check out Ruthless Launcher
Google Play Link
It has a clear all button on the left most page of the app switcher.
Also has app locker function with fingerprint unlock.
Dev is really responsive on Telegram and the app receives frequent updates.
It's customisable - app icons support, grid options etc, loads of features including At-A-Glance and Google Feed etc. Been using it for a few years now.