Related
***REQUIRES ROOT***
This thread will serve as a discussion for modifying the LCD Density of the Samsung Glaxy Nexus. Stock density is 320 dpi, and the preferred modded density is 240 dpi. Please feel free to discuss lcd density, and notify me of anything you want added to the list.
Why modify the lcd density of your phone? Simple answer: more screen real estate.
1. How to modify you lcd density
Note: You can always go back to 320 dpi at any time by following these same steps and putting 320 back in for 240!
240 dpi is the recommended modded dpi for the Galaxy Nexus. You can however set it to whatever you want. Just know that many dpi's will cause the on screen buttons to disappear, and even possibly cause the launcher to crash. In both cases you can use the adb method to restore to 240 or 320.
241 dpi is also a good number to try. It fixes the problems some apps have when running at 240 dpi. Credit goes to g33k3r. However it will cause market incompatibilities. Read #6 to fix this.
246 will fix the contact widget, and quick contact, but it will use the old style contact info which shows a large contact image above their info, not small and to the side. Credit goes to maddler.
250 dpi OR 260 dpi OR 280 dpi are also good values if you would like a smaller than stock value, but 240 is too small for you.
Method 1 (Using an app):
Download LCD Density Modder (Free) / LCD Density Modder Pro from market. Set density to 240 or 241, apply, then reboot. There are multiple different apps that can change your dpi, but this app is guaranteed to work on the Galaxy Nexus.
Method 2 (Modify a file):
Using Root File Explorer or a similar program, modify /system/build.prop file (must mount /system as r/w).
Replace:
ro.sf.lcd_density=320
With:
ro.sf.lcd_density=240
Save and reboot.
Method 3 (Using adb):
adb pull /system/build.prop C:/build.prop
In build.prop, replace:
ro.sf.lcd_density=320
With:
ro.sf.lcd_density=240
adb remount
adb push C:/build.prop /system/build.prop
Reboot phone.
2. Apps where UI is different on 240 dpi (for better or worse, ui elements have been rearranged, but none are broken)
Launcher: Home screen icons are still 4x4 and squished into the center of the screen. App drawer and Widget drawer do not fill. There is a mod that fixes this in this thread: FIX HERE
Market: Now has 2 columns instead of one when listing apps.
Gmail: Quick access icons have been romved from the bottom and placed on the top. Only first two icons are visible, other are collapsed into the drop down menu.
People: Contact info now has a two column layout: a small icon of contact on left (static) with all of the contact info as a scrolling pane on the right (no visible divider). Favorite contact icons are much smaller.
3. Apps where UI is broken, but still useable
Sports Tracker: Some interface items dont stretch to fill the screen.
ADW /ADW Ex Launcher: There is a blue line and a menu icon above the homescreen at all times.
Speedtest.net: App shows up centered on screen, not filling whole screen.
Kindle: It still works but the text is now centered in the middle and there is a large amount of paddling around it.
4. Apps where UI is completely broken
Music: App displays incorrectly at 240 dpi. Run at 241 to fix this
5. Android UI glitches
Sometimes when selecting text the menu bar on the top of the screen will have a weird blue streak across it.
Stock ICS keyboard the popup when you press a key seems like it gets clipped off a little on the bottom.
Clicking the picture of a contact either from the people app, or from a 1x1 contact widget you no longer get the quick access popup, instead it is now the person's contact picture blown up to full screen and half cut off on the right side.
6. Market apps incompatable with device (according to market)
None that I know of. Since 240 dpi is a standard dpi for most android phones, I don't envision very many apps being incompabile. If you find an app that the market say is incompatible, you can try setting your density back to 320 temporarily in order to download it.
For those with market issues on a non-standard dpi (241, 250, 260, 280 etc.), try this:
1. Boot your phone into 320 or 240 dpi mode (depending on which kind of compatibility you want).
2. Find the Market app under manage apps. Click uninstall updates, clear data, clear cache.
3. Find Market Updater under manage apps and click Disable.
4. Open Market and accept terms of service.
5. Change dpi back to 241 and reboot.
Alternatively, LCD Density Modder Pro has the ability to download and install a modded market apk to fix market compatibility issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
7. Apps that crash (with possible workarounds)
Youtube: Will crash on start. Open from landscape mode! Youtube will not crash if openened in landscape mode. You can also open youtube links from the browser and other apps just fine.
8. Before and After Photos (320 dpi on left, 240 dpi on right):
***CLICK ANY SCREENSHOT TO VIEW FULL SIZE!***
Settings:
People:
Contact Info (note that the bottom bar has merged into the top bar):
Android Market:
***RESERVED***
can you provide a screenshot?
like a before/after pic.
I think this is crazy.
The stock DPI is amazing.
Get an SGSII if you want an old-school resolution or have bad eyes.
My stock DPI is absolutely beautiful...
ericshmerick said:
I think this is crazy.
The stock DPI is amazing.
Get an SGSII if you want an old-school resolution or have bad eyes.
My stock DPI is absolutely beautiful...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are completely missing the point. On Android when you change the DPI, you are essentially telling android the size at which to "scale" all objects on the screen. Notice how the Galaxy Nexus has a 720p screen yet you can only fit 4x4 icons on the desktop like the Galaxy S2? Well that is because the 320 dpi is telling android to scale those things bigger. Setting it to 240 dpi will make everything smaller and give you more screen "real estate". The resolution is still 720p.
You mention having bad eyes, but when you lower the dpi you actually need GOOD eyes because everything is smaller and harder to read if you have bad eyes.
paOol said:
can you provide a screenshot?
like a before/after pic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am going to post some screenshots later today.
YouTube crashes on launch for me when set to 240 DPI. I have not performed a wipe, though I have tried wiping the settings and cache for the app.
LadFromWales85 said:
YouTube crashes on launch for me when set to 240 DPI. I have not performed a wipe, though I have tried wiping the settings and cache for the app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah yes, thanks for reminding me. YT crashes for me as well, however if you have the widget you can click one of the videos and it will open that video. You can search for videos from there, but you cant access the home page for some reason.
EDIT: It turns out if you open youtube in landscape mode it will work!
Well thx for the Tip with the density. But however...When I start DPI Changer I get an error "Unable to read configuration file"
Any ideas?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using My Thumb...
Kizura said:
Well thx for the Tip with the density. But however...When I start DPI Changer I get an error "Unable to read configuration file"
Any ideas?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using My Thumb...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you rooted? This requires root.
for sure iam rooted...it was the first thing i have done... and i have ARHD Custom rom installed.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Kizura said:
for sure iam rooted...it was the first thing i have done... and i have ARHD Custom rom installed.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have Root File Explorer? You can use the second method i listed to change the build.prop file. You can also use adb to pull the file locally, edit it, and push it back to the phone.
Oh ok then I will do it manually
I will report back soon ...I hope xD
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
Edit: Ok this is more awesome as it was on my DHD !!!
Really thank you for that great Tip and the Help
Kizura said:
Oh ok then I will do it manually
I will report back soon ...I hope xD
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
Edit: Ok this is more awesome as it was on my DHD !!!
Really thank you for that great Tip and the Help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. Make sure to check out my modified home screen launcher to get the full effect:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1390935
Also, if you find any apps that don't display properly or something else is wrong with them (when running in 240 dpi), please post back in this thread to help inform others.
Mhh I use adb launcher... but on top of the screen is now a blue horizontal line with the three dots for options on the right side....
Will your mod take care of this? I hope you know what I mean...
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
Kizura said:
Mhh I use adb launcher... but on top of the screen is now a blue horizontal line with the three dots for options on the right side....
Will your mod take care of this? I hope you know what I mean...
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have ADW Ex launcher and i see that as well. It is the default titlebar and menu system for apps in ICS. Did you experience this when in 320 dpi as well or only in 240? I haven't tested it in 320.
And no, my mod only affects the stock launcher so it will not fix your problem.
No with 320 dpi that line doesn't appear its there since I have 240 Dpi...
Tested your Launcher replacement...
Great Work
But as you said it will not fix this "line affect" in adw
Maybe in a future update in adw launcher it will be fixed.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
I added photos to the main post now. Click on any photo to view the original size image!
Awesome, really cool. Trying it out today to see if I like it.
Another noticed bug - if you have a contact on your home screen (single icon version), which normally pops up the quick box for the contact, this now just seems to pop up their display picture and nothing else.
I see what you mean about the contact. It also happens when in the people app and you click their picture. I added it to the first post. thanks.
I thought changing the DPI would enable the ICS for tablets UI?
I posted this before when all the SGS3 variants were under one forum. Now that they're locked, I just wanted to post this here as I know a lot of people liked the app. I use it everyday.
One thing I definitely miss on SGS3 coming from SGS1 and SGS2 was the ability to change the brightness setting from from the top of the notification bar. You were able to slide your finger left to right and be able to change the screen brightness.
Display brightness can do something similar and thought I'd share as I am sure a few of you might also miss the old feature. You can set a screen brightness slider anywhere on the screen and change its transparency. It works a treat to be able to change brightness quickly and efficiently. I set mine to be on the left side of the screen horizontally, and set transparency to 0 so it cannot be seen. Then when I need to change brightness quickly, I just slide the bar up or down. There are quite a few options and different sizes you can choose. Also, you can set it so that there is a one second delay. This helps to avoid touching the bar by accident and changing brightness on you.
Here is the link on Google Play if you want to check it out
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=rubberbigpepper.DisplayBrightness
Says url not found
Thanks and sorry about that. Link fixed
Sent from my SGH-I747M using xda app-developers app
Great app. Thanks!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
blue265 said:
I posted this before when all the SGS3 variants were under one forum. Now that they're locked, I just wanted to post this here as I know a lot of people liked the app. I use it everyday.
One thing I definitely miss on SGS3 coming from SGS1 and SGS2 was the ability to change the brightness setting from from the top of the notification bar. You were able to slide your finger left to right and be able to change the screen brightness.
Display brightness can do something similar and thought I'd share as I am sure a few of you might also miss the old feature. You can set a screen brightness slider anywhere on the screen and change its transparency. It works a treat to be able to change brightness quickly and efficiently. I set mine to be on the left side of the screen horizontally, and set transparency to 0 so it cannot be seen. Then when I need to change brightness quickly, I just slide the bar up or down. There are quite a few options and different sizes you can choose. Also, you can set it so that there is a one second delay. This helps to avoid touching the bar by accident and changing brightness on you.
Here is the link on Google Play if you want to check it out
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=rubberbigpepper.DisplayBrightness
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyone getting error when trying to install?
Specifically "Error processing purchase..."
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
Have it installed and really like it.
One problem I'm having is that I set it to Enable the Indicator on my screen, and it periodically turns off. A bit frustrating. But other than that, it's great.
cwburns32 said:
Anyone getting error when trying to install?
Specifically "Error processing purchase..."
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I get the error trying to install apps every time I flash cm10 and then go back to stock. If that's the case youd notice it trying to install other apps on the market. Either case it's a market problem or the rom you're on. I normally fix by clearing market data as well as google framework data too. Then reboot and I can install apps again. It doesn't sound like an app problem though
Also the indicator shutting off I have not seen before. That could be a result of task manager app or something shutting it off somehow
blue265 said:
...Also the indicator shutting off I have not seen before. That could be a result of task manager app or something shutting it off somehow
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought about that. If so, it is the system manager, because I do not run task managers.
I do have System Tuner...have nothing set in it's killer. I did set this app as excluded (which my understanding is that excludes apps from availability to kill). I think maybe it did help, but did not cure the issue.
Ultimatum rom lets you change brightness from the top. However the min brightness doesn't go low enough on this phone. Too bright in dark rooms
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
I use another app called screen filter for the darkness issue. Check it out! You can then make the screen MUCH darker depending on preference. I agree, the screen does not go low enough on this phone especially at night when in a dark environment.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.haxor&feature=nav_result#?t=W10
blue265 said:
I use another app called screen filter for the darkness issue. Check it out! You can then make the screen MUCH darker depending on preference. I agree, the screen does not go low enough on this phone especially at night when in a dark environment.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.haxor&feature=nav_result#?t=W10
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I swear by this app. Greatest thing ever for texting at night or even (Yes I know, shame on me) in the movie theater.
I posted a similar guide for my Galaxy SII, so I figured I would share the love here. Hopefully this helps out a few folks who want to better utilize the amazing screen on the GSIII. I am manually copying this from my post in the now closed combined GSIII forums. Please feel free to comment and make suggestions and please "thank" if you appreciate the post!
General Info for Beginners:
The Galaxy SIII comes with a gorgeous 4.8 inch, 1280 x 720 (albeit pentile) screen. As great as the screen looks, I couldn't help but feel that there is a lot of "wasted space" at the existing resolution. The best example of this fact is the app drawers default 4 x 5 layout. In my opinion, things look much better when the the icons are a bit smaller and more tightly grouped. For those that feel the same way, there is a simple build.prop edit you can do to "trick" you phone to thinking it is set to a higher resolution
How-To Change the Density Setting:
To accomplish this, all you have to do is change the build.prop setting for "ro.sf.lcd_density". There are multiple programs out there that makes this much easier but I have found the best results with "ROM Toolbox". Feel free to buy the full version to support the dev but if all you are looking to do is change the density setting, the lite version will do just fine.
1. download and install "ROM Toolbox" from the Google Play Store
2. go to the "Performance" tab
3. click "build.prop tweaks"
4. change the "LCD Density" slider to whatever DPI you like
5. reboot
As mentioned, there are multiple programs out there but based on my personal experiences, DO NOT USE "LCD DENSITY MODDER" from the play store. This app is known to cause soft-bricks/bootloops. However, I have been told that LCD Density Modder CAN still help with the Play Store app issue, but you will have to buy the pro version for that feature. Thanks uber_mike! (more on that later)
What Setting to Choose:
This is matter of personal opinion so try out different setups and see what you like best. Remember, the lower you set the number, the smaller your icons/text will appear but will also give you more screen real estate. I suggest starting from about 280 or so and working your way down and find something you like.
You may also notice that text and icons appear less sharp when messing with these settings. Keep in mind that because you are not truly changing your screen resolution, the translation will not be perfect. Personally, given the natural sharpness of AMOLED screens, I think most people while not be bothered by this or even notice.
"Phone Mode" vs "Tablet Mode"
As some posters have reported, going to 240 dpi or below will result in Android thinking your device is a tablet. I have been running 240 for a few days now and I'm loving it. In my opinion, may apps look a lot better in Tablet mode but if there are certain phone only apps you MUST have, please keep this in mind.
Potential Issues and Workarounds:
You will inevitably run into some compatibility issues so here are few final thoughts
Which ROM to use?
TouchWiz-based Roms: All roms based on stock Samsung TW for the GSIII were written with only the native resolution in mind. This means that certain apps and aspects of the OS will not scale well with a higher resolution::
- TouchWiz UX Launcher: If you are dead-set on using the default TW launcher, this mod may not be for you. The proportions will look way off and because you cannot edit things like margin or grid layout, it is not fixable. Aftermarket launchers like Apex handle the conversion much better (more on that later)
- The Phone Dialer: The dialer looks like small box that fills up only a portion of the screen. To resolve, you can use an aftermarket dialer app like "exDialer" from the Play Store
- TW E-mail App: The TW e-mail app (not gmail) also doesn't scale well. You can flash the AOSP version of e-mail as a workaround
- Stock Camera App: You will notice some of the border coloring and margins doesn't scale very well but the functionality is still perfect
- Notification Bar: I have noticed the little lines in the pull-down become off-center after you adjust the dpi. Again, a minor annoyance which doesn't effect functionality
- Twitter:*You may have profile pictures show up in 2 different sizes (Thanks Msilvame!)
Some additional feedback from other posters(thanks mhtruth!) but note that I personally do not have all of these issues
*status bar quick toggles DON'T scroll (stuck with just the 1st 5)
*status bar "remove all (X)" missing (swiping still works)
* in call speaker boost doesn't work...(only stops you from hearing not the person on the other end)
* some apps go into tablet mode (ex. HBO GO)
AOSP ROMs: CM9 and AOKP handle the conversion a bit better. You won't run into the dialer or e-mail issue like with TW ROMs but there are still some bugs.
- Certain pictures of contacts may appear too zoomed in, i.e. messaging notification pictures or the favorites tab
- Other aspects of the OS may become hard to read when scaled down so much, i.e. lock screen add-on buttons, notification pull down buttons
- I recently had a chance to mess with some JB ROMs and found that the lockscreen slider/phone answer slider does not scale well and is oriented towards the right of the screen. Boo
The Play Store Doesn't Show All Apps? - This is the biggest pain in the a$$ when you mess with the lcd density settings. There is a bug in the play store that prevents you from seeing certain apps when you change the lcd settings away from default.
I have seen a few "hacked" versions of the vending.apk out there that makes the play store think you are always set to a stock dpi but for some reason, this only works for a little while. LCD Density Modder Pro has a feature where it can install a "fixed" Play Store app that can help with this issue also, but there is also a workaround.
Here are the steps to get the market working again:
1. Change LCD Density back to stock (320)
2. Reboot to take effect
3. Clear the data for the Google Play Store AND Google Services Framework
4. Open the Play Store app and you should see everything again
5. Change LCD density back to whatever you like.
6. Reboot
I know this is a bit cumbersome but it's the best solution for now. I haven't quite nailed down what triggers the market to "break" but hopefully you won't have to do this fix too often. In opinion, this small annoyance is worth it.
Also, one thing I noticed when using Rom Toolbox is that after you set your dpi to a lower setting using the "build.prop tweaks" menu, if you go back and try to set it to the stock 320, it will max out at 280 or so. Not sure why this is the case but to do this manually, go to "build.prop editor" instead and change the "ro.sf.lcd_density" to 320.
I have been told that setting your dpi to 240 will also help with Play Store issues, since 240 is a stock resolution on other devices (GSII comes to mind). Feel free to try this out, but the size of icons and fonts may be a bit too small for some tastes (thanks DutchDogg54 and chakra!)
Everything Looks Too "Stretched Out"? - Having an aftermarket launcher will help with this tremendously, as the TW launcher does not scale well at all. I personally use Apex Launcher and there are some settings you can change to make the proportions look better
1. Homescreen Settings: Change the Vertical and Horizontal margins to medium or large
2. Dock Settings: Same as above.
You may also want to mess with different homescreen grid configurations now that you have extra room. I have bumped up mine to 5 x 5 and it looks great.
Bumping up the font size can also help even things out. At 240 dpi, I put mine to "normal", but at stock I used "tiny" (thanks falconator!)
List of all the ICS compatible launchers that will work for this mod:
- Apex Launcher (my fave)
- Nova Launcher
- Go Launcher
- Atom Launcher (new!)
- Holo Launcher (new!)
And that's it. I hope this will help you out so that you won't have to go through all the trial and error I did. I promise you, after you do this, it will be impossible for you to go back to the stock resolution (everything looks HUGE)
Update: I have added some of my and mhtruth's screenshots for those who are interested. I also added a screenshot of HBO GO in tablet mode
My setup:
- 240 dpi (Tablet Mode)
- AOKP M6 R3, Black Exodus Theme
- Apex Launcher
- Homescreen: 6 x 5 grid, Horizontal Margin: Medium, Vertical Margin: Large
- Dock: Horizontal Margin: Large, Vertical Margin: Medium
- Font Size: "Normal"
Feel free to show off your own homescreen screenshots! I will update OP and add yours too!
I was just complaining about this to myself this morning. Thank you for sharing this. I'm definitely going to try messing with this.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I find that ROM toolbox is kind of buggy on the GS3.
There use to be an app o the market that did this and it stuck on boot. I hate messing with build prop myself. Someone should whip up a new app.
-me being lazy lol
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Update:
Since 8/10 I have been running the AMAZING Paranoid Android ROM and I am in love with this. For anyone who liked the LCD Density Mod posted above, you should definitely check out this ROM. I got to experience it just a bit with my GSII and continue to be impressed with my GSIII.
I suggest you try "Phablet" Mode at first. The advantage to this ROM is that it allows you to individually adjust the density of each app separately as well as prevents market incompatibility issues. This is a MUST for people who like things at a setting other than 240.
Hope this helps!
Stuck in boot
after 3 hours of getting it rooted, i got the density app, i may of gotten the lcd density modder , i didnt know there was 2 kinds. but i put it to 200, rebooted and now i try to turn on and it goes to samsung logo but then just turns off again, what do i do?
Well, if it didnt back up your build.prop then the easiest thing would be to flash a rom.
Or if you have a nandroid restore just the system part.
Otherwise plug up to your computer and oull your build.prop, set it back to default and push it back to system.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I'm running AOKP milestone 1 on my SGSIII, when I change my density I get screen flashes. Is this the incompatibility your talking about? I've tried different DPIs with the same result. I've used the density changer built into ROM control, as well as ROM toolbox, both with the same results. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
Let me make a few notes:
First, stock ics touchwiz ROMs do not like anything lower than 240. This means any ROM that is touchwiz based off stock ics will result in boot loops.. trust me been there -.-
Secondly, don't waste your money on the LCD density mod app to fix the market. I've already fixed the market. Just flash my zip found [MOD][APP][UPDATE 3.10.10] 320DPI GoogleServicesFramework and google play and you should be golden. Don't have a custom recovery, then extract the files from the zip and use a root file browser to copy them to the system/app directory.
Oh and 240 isn't tablet mode. I'm currently at 210 and it's not tablet mode.. I don't remember what it was.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
So..... Any recommendations on the screen flashing after changing the density?
elterible said:
I posted a similar guide for my Galaxy SII, so I figured I would share the love here. Hopefully this helps out a few folks who want to better utilize the amazing screen on the GSIII. I am manually copying this from my post in the now closed combined GSIII forums. Please feel free to comment and make suggestions and please "thank" if you appreciate the post!
General Info for Beginners:
The Galaxy SIII comes with a gorgeous 4.8 inch, 1280 x 720 (albeit pentile) screen. As great as the screen looks, I couldn't help but feel that there is a lot of "wasted space" at the existing resolution. The best example of this fact is the app drawers default 4 x 5 layout. In my opinion, things look much better when the the icons are a bit smaller and more tightly grouped. For those that feel the same way, there is a simple build.prop edit you can do to "trick" you phone to thinking it is set to a higher resolution
How-To Change the Density Setting:
To accomplish this, all you have to do is change the build.prop setting for "ro.sf.lcd_density". There are multiple programs out there that makes this much easier but I have found the best results with "ROM Toolbox". Feel free to buy the full version to support the dev but if all you are looking to do is change the density setting, the lite version will do just fine.
1. download and install "ROM Toolbox" from the Google Play Store
2. go to the "Performance" tab
3. click "build.prop tweaks"
4. change the "LCD Density" slider to whatever DPI you like
5. reboot
As mentioned, there are multiple programs out there but based on my personal experiences, DO NOT USE "LCD DENSITY MODDER" from the play store. This app is known to cause soft-bricks/bootloops. However, I have been told that LCD Density Modder CAN still help with the Play Store app issue, but you will have to buy the pro version for that feature. Thanks uber_mike! (more on that later)
What Setting to Choose:
This is matter of personal opinion so try out different setups and see what you like best. Remember, the lower you set the number, the smaller your icons/text will appear but will also give you more screen real estate. I suggest starting from about 280 or so and working your way down and find something you like.
You may also notice that text and icons appear less sharp when messing with these settings. Keep in mind that because you are not truly changing your screen resolution, the translation will not be perfect. Personally, given the natural sharpness of AMOLED screens, I think most people while not be bothered by this or even notice.
"Phone Mode" vs "Tablet Mode"
As some posters have reported, going to 240 dpi or below will result in Android thinking your device is a tablet. I have been running 240 for a few days now and I'm loving it. In my opinion, may apps look a lot better in Tablet mode but if there are certain phone only apps you MUST have, please keep this in mind.
Potential Issues and Workarounds:
You will inevitably run into some compatibility issues so here are few final thoughts
Which ROM to use?
TouchWiz-based Roms: All roms based on stock Samsung TW for the GSIII were written with only the native resolution in mind. This means that certain apps and aspects of the OS will not scale well with a higher resolution::
- TouchWiz UX Launcher: If you are dead-set on using the default TW launcher, this mod may not be for you. The proportions will look way off and because you cannot edit things like margin or grid layout, it is not fixable. Aftermarket launchers like Apex handle the conversion much better (more on that later)
- The Phone Dialer: The dialer looks like small box that fills up only a portion of the screen. To resolve, you can use an aftermarket dialer app like "exDialer" from the Play Store
- TW E-mail App: The TW e-mail app (not gmail) also doesn't scale well. You can flash the AOSP version of e-mail as a workaround
- Stock Camera App: You will notice some of the border coloring and margins doesn't scale very well but the functionality is still perfect
- Notification Bar: I have noticed the little lines in the pull-down become off-center after you adjust the dpi. Again, a minor annoyance which doesn't effect functionality
- Twitter:*You may have profile pictures show up in 2 different sizes (Thanks Msilvame!)
Some additional feedback from other posters(thanks mhtruth!) but note that I personally do not have all of these issues
*status bar quick toggles DON'T scroll (stuck with just the 1st 5)
*status bar "remove all (X)" missing (swiping still works)
* in call speaker boost doesn't work...(only stops you from hearing not the person on the other end)
* some apps go into tablet mode (ex. HBO GO)
AOSP ROMs: CM9 and AOKP handle the conversion a bit better. You won't run into the dialer or e-mail issue like with TW ROMs but there are still some bugs.
- Certain pictures of contacts may appear too zoomed in, i.e. messaging notification pictures or the favorites tab
- Other aspects of the OS may become hard to read when scaled down so much, i.e. lock screen add-on buttons, notification pull down buttons
- I recently had a chance to mess with some JB ROMs and found that the lockscreen slider/phone answer slider does not scale well and is oriented towards the right of the screen. Boo
The Play Store Doesn't Show All Apps? - This is the biggest pain in the a$$ when you mess with the lcd density settings. There is a bug in the play store that prevents you from seeing certain apps when you change the lcd settings away from default.
I have seen a few "hacked" versions of the vending.apk out there that makes the play store think you are always set to a stock dpi but for some reason, this only works for a little while. LCD Density Modder Pro has a feature where it can install a "fixed" Play Store app that can help with this issue also, but there is also a workaround.
Here are the steps to get the market working again:
1. Change LCD Density back to stock (320)
2. Reboot to take effect
3. Clear the data for the Google Play Store AND Google Services Framework
4. Open the Play Store app and you should see everything again
5. Change LCD density back to whatever you like.
6. Reboot
I know this is a bit cumbersome but it's the best solution for now. I haven't quite nailed down what triggers the market to "break" but hopefully you won't have to do this fix too often. In opinion, this small annoyance is worth it.
Also, one thing I noticed when using Rom Toolbox is that after you set your dpi to a lower setting using the "build.prop tweaks" menu, if you go back and try to set it to the stock 320, it will max out at 280 or so. Not sure why this is the case but to do this manually, go to "build.prop editor" instead and change the "ro.sf.lcd_density" to 320.
I have been told that setting your dpi to 240 will also help with Play Store issues, since 240 is a stock resolution on other devices (GSII comes to mind). Feel free to try this out, but the size of icons and fonts may be a bit too small for some tastes (thanks DutchDogg54 and chakra!)
Everything Looks Too "Stretched Out"? - Having an aftermarket launcher will help with this tremendously, as the TW launcher does not scale well at all. I personally use Apex Launcher and there are some settings you can change to make the proportions look better
1. Homescreen Settings: Change the Vertical and Horizontal margins to medium or large
2. Dock Settings: Same as above.
You may also want to mess with different homescreen grid configurations now that you have extra room. I have bumped up mine to 5 x 5 and it looks great.
Bumping up the font size can also help even things out. At 240 dpi, I put mine to "normal", but at stock I used "tiny" (thanks falconator!)
List of all the ICS compatible launchers that will work for this mod:
- Apex Launcher (my fave)
- Nova Launcher
- Go Launcher
- Atom Launcher (new!)
- Holo Launcher (new!)
And that's it. I hope this will help you out so that you won't have to go through all the trial and error I did. I promise you, after you do this, it will be impossible for you to go back to the stock resolution (everything looks HUGE)
Update: I have added some of my and mhtruth's screenshots for those who are interested. I also added a screenshot of HBO GO in tablet mode
My setup:
- 240 dpi (Tablet Mode)
- AOKP M6 R3, Black Exodus Theme
- Apex Launcher
- Homescreen: 6 x 5 grid, Horizontal Margin: Medium, Vertical Margin: Large
- Dock: Horizontal Margin: Large, Vertical Margin: Medium
- Font Size: "Normal"
Feel free to show off your own homescreen screenshots! I will update OP and add yours too!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im running a stock rom on a Chinese phone (W9208) and i dont have LCD density...apps dont work either...is there hope for me?
rndm said:
Im running a stock rom on a Chinese phone (W9208) and i dont have LCD density...apps dont work either...is there hope for me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not too familiar with that model. pardon me if this is a stupid question but i'm assuming you mean "stock android"?
if so, then you're fine. download an app that will let you change the LCD density manually in the buildprop (i.e. Rom Toolbox). find the line "ro.sf.lcd_density" and change to whatever you like.
The tricky part here is to find the right number. I wrote this guide a while back for my Galaxy S3, which ran 320 dpi natively at it's 720p resolution. To achieve tablet mode (and retain compatibility with the Google Playstore), I changed it to 240. My current device (nexus 5) runs 1080p which has a stock dpi of 480. To achieve tablet mode, i changed to 320. Does this make sense? Again, it's tricky b/c i'm not sure what resolution your phone is
Well, i hope this helps, good luck!
elterible said:
I'm not too familiar with that model. pardon me if this is a stupid question but i'm assuming you mean "stock android"?
if so, then you're fine. download an app that will let you change the LCD density manually in the buildprop (i.e. Rom Toolbox). find the line "ro.sf.lcd_density" and change to whatever you like.
The tricky part here is to find the right number. I wrote this guide a while back for my Galaxy S3, which ran 320 dpi natively at it's 720p resolution. To achieve tablet mode (and retain compatibility with the Google Playstore), I changed it to 240. My current device (nexus 5) runs 1080p which has a stock dpi of 480. To achieve tablet mode, i changed to 320. Does this make sense? Again, it's tricky b/c i'm not sure what resolution your phone is
Well, i hope this helps, good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish it was stock android:crying:
Star's (Chinese manufacturer) manipulation of android to copy Samsung's touchwiz.
my device is 720p and has a 6.4 inch screen...hence me wanting to change the dpi...not sure what the dpi currently is but the drop-down status bar toggles labels are squashed.
I rooted and installed loads of dpi apps and none worked. Then I looked for "ro.sf.lcd_density" and realised I don't have one in my build prop. Know any fixes?
rndm said:
I wish it was stock android:crying:
Star's (Chinese manufacturer) manipulation of android to copy Samsung's touchwiz.
my device is 720p and has a 6.4 inch screen...hence me wanting to change the dpi...not sure what the dpi currently is but the drop-down status bar toggles labels are squashed.
I rooted and installed loads of dpi apps and none worked. Then I looked for "ro.sf.lcd_density" and realised I don't have one in my build prop. Know any fixes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you should be able to manually add in the line yourself.
but a word of warning, given that i have no experience with "Star" and no idea what version of android is on there, I would proceed with caution if you do that
since you have it rooted, is there any way you can flash a completely stock custom version of android on there? is there any development support for it here on XDA?
rndm said:
I wish it was stock android:crying:
Star's (Chinese manufacturer) manipulation of android to copy Samsung's touchwiz.
my device is 720p and has a 6.4 inch screen...hence me wanting to change the dpi...not sure what the dpi currently is but the drop-down status bar toggles labels are squashed.
I rooted and installed loads of dpi apps and none worked. Then I looked for "ro.sf.lcd_density" and realised I don't have one in my build prop. Know any fixes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use "Build.prop Editor" app and add that entry yourself. That's least painful way.
Perseus71 said:
You can use "Build.prop Editor" app and add that entry yourself. That's least painful way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great didn't know I could do that, however i might leave it now...
I installed texdroider and I couldn't type any numbers in the dpi change box (probably because it directly edits the lcd density registry, which i didn't have)
Then after that I installed LCD density modder app which put my phone into a bootloop after setting 300dpi
So I assume even after adding the entry I wont have much room to play with anyway?
---------- Post added at 10:37 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:35 AM ----------
elterible said:
you should be able to manually add in the line yourself.
but a word of warning, given that i have no experience with "Star" and no idea what version of android is on there, I would proceed with caution if you do that
since you have it rooted, is there any way you can flash a completely stock custom version of android on there? is there any development support for it here on XDA?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried searching Mediatek LCD desnsity change but to no avail. Thanks anyway.
rockyhas said:
after 3 hours of getting it rooted, i got the density app, i may of gotten the lcd density modder , i didnt know there was 2 kinds. but i put it to 200, rebooted and now i try to turn on and it goes to samsung logo but then just turns off again, what do i do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As mentioned, there are multiple programs out there but based on my personal experiences, DO NOT USE "LCD DENSITY MODDER" from the play store. This app is known to cause soft-bricks/bootloops. However, I have been told that LCD Density Modder CAN still help with the Play Store app issue, but you will have to buy the pro version for that feature. Thanks uber_mike! (more on that later)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're screwed. Do a reset.
I did the LCD changes through playstore i ddint see this thread and now my phone logo comes but black screen after hard rest nothing working help HTc Sensation xl
So i am running into a very strange issue that i haven't been able to find much information on. I am running the latest OOS (3.1.2) rooted, i had changed the DPI a few days ago using build prop editor and everything seemed to be working just fine, except my camera, it suddenly would freeze when a picture is taken, crash, and not produce a picture, and sometimes the picture would be just green.
Here is what iv'e tried:
removed the line from build prop editor and rebooted to get to stock DPI
changed the DPI to stock with the toolkit, then back to a different DPI, then back to stock.
removed the camera app cache
factory reset the phone
Strangely enough the camera in HDR mode appears to work just fine, but it doesn't appear to work in any other mode (including video).
Using the camera with flash always turned on in pretty much any mode seems to also work.
Atlantisman said:
So i am running into a very strange issue that i haven't been able to find much information on. I am running the latest OOS (3.1.2) rooted, i had changed the DPI a few days ago using build prop editor and everything seemed to be working just fine, except my camera, it suddenly would freeze when a picture is taken, crash, and not produce a picture, and sometimes the picture would be just green.
Here is what iv'e tried:
removed the line from build prop editor and rebooted to get to stock DPI
changed the DPI to stock with the toolkit, then back to a different DPI, then back to stock.
removed the camera app cache
factory reset the phone
Strangely enough the camera in HDR mode appears to work just fine, but it doesn't appear to work in any other mode (including video).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I posted about this issue a few days ago http://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-3/help/weird-camera-bug-t3404660
mr.shme said:
I posted about this issue a few days ago http://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-3/help/weird-camera-bug-t3404660
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, didn't notice that.
I flashed back to bone stock OOS 3.1.2 and everything seems to be working now... I will attempted to change the DPI again via the toolkit.
I changed DPI with Le DPI Changer (non build.prop method) and everything is working fine. You might want to check it out.
That's why I always say that global DPI change is not a good idea, period.
Much better and additionally more flexible is using the Xposed module "App Settings" where you can run every app at an individual DPI setting and tweak some more things (e. g. having an app run with its tablet UI).
I had the same issue on OOS 3.1.3 rooted and DPI changed.
I enabled RAW mode and it fixed the issue.
crumble6 said:
I changed DPI with Le DPI Changer (non build.prop method) and everything is working fine. You might want to check it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What DPI value did you set it to? No issues with camera, icons, widgets, etc?
jiznon said:
What DPI value did you set it to? No issues with camera, icons, widgets, etc?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
400. No issues at all except that when I use "large text" captions in snapchat they display fine on my screen but the text is much smaller and out of position on my friends' phones. Literally not a single other problem with any app I've tried though. I've heard 380 works good too. Tempted to try it but tbh I'm happy at 400 for now.
crumble6 said:
I changed DPI with Le DPI Changer (non build.prop method) and everything is working fine. You might want to check it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
crumble6 said:
400. No issues at all except that when I use "large text" captions in snapchat they display fine on my screen but the text is much smaller and out of position on my friends' phones. Literally not a single other problem with any app I've tried though. I've heard 380 works good too. Tempted to try it but tbh I'm happy at 400 for now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick reply. So far my experience has been frustrating.
1) Changed DPI to 400 via build.prop edit. Resulted in camera issues. Could not reset DPI or change to any other value. Had to reflash OOS 3.1.3 to fix.
2) Did some research. Heard a OP3 toolkit here on xda could change DPI without issue (I believe it just uses the adb method) . Used it to change to 400. Camera is fine, but I experience wonky sizing issues with widgets, icons on notification banners, twitter photo previews, and a few other little text size issues. Tried using the toolkit to return to default DPI but it simply doesn't change anything.
3) Per your account of this app, I tried it but it us unable to make any change. Looks like I may have to reflash AGAIN, and attempt the Le DPI Changer again.
Bah.
jiznon said:
Thanks for the quick reply. So far my experience has been frustrating.
1) Changed DPI to 400 via build.prop edit. Resulted in camera issues. Could not reset DPI or change to any other value. Had to reflash OOS 3.1.3 to fix.
2) Did some research. Heard a OP3 toolkit here on xda could change DPI without issue (I believe it just uses the adb method) . Used it to change to 400. Camera is fine, but I experience wonky sizong issues with widgets, icons on notification banners, and a few other little text size issues. Tried using the toolkit to return to default DPI but it simply doesn't change anything.
3) Per your account of this app, I tried it but it us unable to make any change. Looks like I may have to reflash AGAIN, and attempt the Le DPI Changer again.
Bah.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I should have mentioned. I am using Nova launcher and have changed the grid size of the desktop to 11 x 7. Things will probably behave weird if you are using the oneplus launcher.
crumble6 said:
Sorry, I should have mentioned. I am using Nova launcher and have changed the grid size of the desktop to 11 x 7. Things will probably behave weird if you are using the oneplus launcher.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries. I am also using Nova Launcher with custom grid size. Only issues on my desktop is wonky icon size with Chronus widget.
jiznon said:
No worries. I am also using Nova Launcher with custom grid size. Only issues on my desktop is wonky icon size with Chronus widget.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I find enabling widget overlap in Nova and then playing around with resizing widgets I can usually get them looking right in the end.
I had already posted this here but it seemed like Nobody besides me had this problem.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-3/help/camera-issues-root-t3409764
I'm glad this issue is getting attention!
running 340 dpi, works fine for me. did it with le dpi changer
Running 290 all good using le dpi changer ?
Sent from my ONEPLUS3
I'm starting to wonder there is a magic DPI number that doesn't break the camera!! Time to test!
I found this solution on the oneplus 3 reddit. Camera works perfectly and there are no weird icons!
https://www.reddit.com/r/oneplus/comments/4satgq/changing_op3_dpi_using_buildprop_without_breaking/
Basically use qemu.sf.lcd_density=xxx instead of ro.sf.lcd_density=xxx in your build.prop!
I'm using 420 and all is awesome now!!
Huge thanks to this guy for posting the solution!!
ro.sf.lcd_density=400 in build.prop works just fine on my device running stock OOS 3.2.1.
Only manual mode is slightly misaligned inside the camera app.
Trying qemu.sf.lcd_density=400 gives me the same result btw.
I never had issues with green photos in HQ or other weird behaviour.
Running dpi 400 via manual build.prop edit since day one
and only had to repeat this after each ota.
Besides the general low quality of this piece of software, here are some specific pains:
1. SafetyNet test fails (no root) - WTF? Can't use any of my work applications because of that.
2. Status bar notification icons don't appear (except for Gmail, for some reason)
3. About device shows there's an update available but I can't update because I'm not the "owner" of the device (there is only 1 user configured, no multiple users) - screenshot attached.
Please share your experience and whether or not you're seeing the same issues (or more).
Thanks!
Another botched update from oneplus scams
Well, it's a good thing I decided that the OP9P would be my last OP smartphone. I'm gona stick with Pixel phone from now on. Finally release A12 and no phone or data works. Really OP???
- Phone stuck in 60hz like 99% of the time.
- Keyboard doesn't have this convenient padding anymore. (On botttom to make typing easier.)
- [Launcher] Can't search apps with a single up swipe anymore, will have to find some hacky solution again. Usually I put a KISS launcher shortcut on other phones. But why ruin it when they had it ....
- [Launcher] Folders open on the middle of screen. Makes no sensse.
- [Launcher] The whole launcher experience is just way worse.
- Battery Management is a mess, now there are other options per app. The previous settings were reset.
- Rooting with Canary Magsik can soft brick. Managed to fix it but it took me a while and I consider myself a veteran.
Honestly, tons of great features are missing. I wish they would just give us a lean AOSP instead like the ASUS Android and call it a day. This feels like a botched, budget Android on a cheap Chinese phone.
App drawers can only display 4 icons per row. Anyone knows how to change it to 5 per row or more?
it is no longer possible to film and in 21:9... or I am blind.
Like a say h8Aramex Phone stuck in 60hz like 99% of the time.
anhtin said:
App drawers can only display 4 icons per row. Anyone knows how to change it to 5 per row or more?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it's possible. settings --> home screen and lock screen
purpleman2k said:
Status bar notification icons don't appear (except for Gmail, for some reason)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not actually a bug, that's feature. Go to notification settings for particular app and you can set to show notification icon on status bar. Disabled by default for all apss (I think it should be enabled by default), except Gmail, Dialer and a few others.
Bug I found:
- font size issues. I want to set small fonts and dpi. But some apps, like default camera app, power menu, google feeds when swipe etc has still default large font, experience is terrible
- custom dpi set in developer settings will be reverted after reboot. If you set smaller dpi in phone settings, it will be applied a few seconds after boot, phone starts with default dpi
- AOD does not work, even if enabled, screen will turn off when inactive
I installed via built in ota from Oxygen 11 Global, I got update to ColorOS 12
Just got my first 1+ yesterday and was really impressed with the OOS 11 experience.
All day long. All the magic has gone after the update.
In addition to what was already said, the AOD is flickering terribly.
Perhaps it is caused by the pwm of low frequency.
Lol, I paid 1000 euros for this phone because the software was supposed to be good...
Oh yeah, the CLOCK. What is WRONG with that CLOCK!? LMAO.
I mean look at this ABOMINATION.
WHO DRAWS A CLOCK LIKE THAT? SATAN?!?!??!
Like wtf lol.
I have a new problem. I listen to music while walking with my wireless headphones. The phone is in my pocket. Unknown reason causes the phone to crash.
I feel it's going to be complicated.... At least I have 5G working.
Why would they remove the seconds on the clock feature. This update is horrible all around
anhtin said:
App drawers can only display 4 icons per row. Anyone knows how to change it to 5 per row or more?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get Nova launcher and don't look back?
I'm not even going to upgrade A12, I deleted the 4gig update I got from Oxygen Updater. Oneplus just shoot them self in the foot and will not recover from this. I'll be suprise if they sell 1k Oneplus 10 phone next month.
h8Aramex said:
Oh yeah, the CLOCK. What is WRONG with that CLOCK!? LMAO.
I mean look at this ABOMINATION.
WHO DRAWS A CLOCK LIKE THAT? SATAN?!?!??!
Like wtf lol.
View attachment 5476711
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is your phone in 24-hour format? Mine looks normal in 12-hour format but like yours in 24-hour format. I don't use the stock clock app so I hadn't noticed.
ddizzy81 said:
Why would they remove the seconds on the clock feature. This update is horrible all around
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They didn't. This is only when setting an alarm in the clock app.
Camera goes bananas when zoomed beyond 10x.. See attached
Any custom DPI set in developer options is completely lost after reboot.
Reported by me multiple times and was also seen in previous phones/Android versions.
Hi all, i can't open the icon option in the Launcher and and in the settings too it simply crash and nothing. Anyone as an idea? I just wipe launcher data but nothing.
h8Aramex said:
- Phone stuck in 60hz like 99% of the time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you select "High" refresh rate in settings? Mine is at 120hz the vast majority of the time.
I have issues with screen brightness not adjusting to low-light conditions. When setting my phone on my dash mount I have to manually adjust the screen brightness down or go blind, even in dark mode. Worked fine with Oxygen OS 11. Fairly disappointed with the overall quality of this update, and I usually love getting the shiny new OS version update.