Related
Say I download an *.apk file from some site or I get one from a friend, could it potentially harm my phone, cost me money etc.? Basically what I'm wondering is, when I install an app it generally says what the app has/wants access to, is this "warning" coded by the programmer to tell the user what it's accessing or is it determined automatically by built in functions? I don't want to install and app that has access to stuff that I'm not aware of.
Regards,
B
Edit: On a second note. Say I do download some harmful application, would uninstalling it solve the problem or could there be remaining harmful files still at work? The whole Android OS is sorta worrying me...bad experiences with Windows is making me cautious.
if you can think of it
there can always be a chance of happening
yes, a malicious hacker could do something like that
yes, a pissed programmer might including something like that into their apps to stop people from sharing their apps without buying it
yes, the apk might be legit but might have been corrupted some how
yes, you might be able to uninstall if lucky
but worse case scenario if i were a malicious hacker i wouldn't code a way to uninstall the app, instead i'll probably code a way to lock the user out of all access forcing you to Flash the phone from scratch
You didn't really answer my one major question, or maybe you did but I didn't understand. Are the services that the app is able to access programmed or are they determined by a function?
Well when installing I've resorted to checking a few things:
1) Make sure the app that I've downloaded is the same size as the one in the market (for equivalent versions...obviously)
2) Compare the system permissions when installing with those found at www.androlib.com
This way seems pretty safe to me. If the size is the same and the permissions are the same...you can be quite (not 100%) certain that they are legit/the same.
Ok heres the deal. Apps have 2 types of access.
1. Standard permissions
So if u don't do adb-install (where u dont see an app's permissions), then market / copy to sdcard and install from there u'll see the permission screen. An app cannot do something w/o permissions. If an uninstaller is askin for email permissions u know somethings wrong.
2. Root
Most dangerous. An app will ask u for 0 standard android api permissions. But when u run it, u will be asked for a superuser allow/deny request. From their its up to you. An app could do anything behind the scenes from tht point.
So read reviews/ user comments before trying root apps. Standard apps, just look over the permissions thts all.
FYI : The permissions are read by android, they're not user defined. Any permissions will always show up when installing it using the native package manager.
To be honest I wouldn't advise downloading an .apk from a non-trusted source. If its on the market, you're near certainly ok, and if its from a trusted developer (say from these boards, or some other similar dev portal) then again, you are likely to be ok. In the second case, you are unlikely to be getting a finished app if you get a straight apk from boards, because when they are finished or at least solid, they go to the app store anyway, so harm in that case is more likely to be of the force close variety rather than bricked variety.
Outside of that, I can't see why you would get an apk from a friend rather than downloading it yourself, simply because that way it makes certain you get a clean, non-corrupted version. If apps don't show up in the market for you, its mostly because your device can't run them, in which case, again, force close.
Uninstalling it is possibly too late. All smartphones suffer this issue though.
As mentioned, if you get the files from market though, you are likely to be safe..
Also, not all melicious programs are obvious..
Daneshm90 said:
Ok heres the deal. Apps have 2 types of access.
1. Standard permissions
So if u don't do adb-install (where u dont see an app's permissions), then market / copy to sdcard and install from there u'll see the permission screen. An app cannot do something w/o permissions. If an uninstaller is askin for email permissions u know somethings wrong.
2. Root
Most dangerous. An app will ask u for 0 standard android api permissions. But when u run it, u will be asked for a superuser allow/deny request. From their its up to you. An app could do anything behind the scenes from tht point.
So read reviews/ user comments before trying root apps. Standard apps, just look over the permissions thts all.
FYI : The permissions are read by android, they're not user defined. Any permissions will always show up when installing it using the native package manager.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you.
Btw, just because security on App store says an app can do stuff like make phone calls etc, doesn't mean it's malicious.
A few people were misled by an article that stated that apps with such extreme permissions were malicious, but it's untrue. It isn't always the case, but if an app uses functionality you don't believe it should, it's possible it is dodgy
andrewluecke said:
Btw, just because security on App store says an app can do stuff like make phone calls etc, doesn't mean it's malicious.
A few people were misled by an article that stated that apps with such extreme permissions were malicious, but it's untrue. It isn't always the case, but if an app uses functionality you don't believe it should, it's possible it is dodgy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aye, I know. Thanks for the advice. I've actually been comparing any app I download off the internet to the actual ones on the market (size and permissions).
Hi everyone im a noob member to the site but have read some interesting threads before membership but as usual joining when i have a problem that needs some of your help
I have had a .apk file download to my htc desire running 2.2.2. I was browsing pics of the fake kind when it started downloading. i did see some letters and numbers before the file ext. It is not an official .apk that im sure off. I have searched for it on my phone but cannot find it to delete .
can anyone help please
After hooking up htc to my pc by usb lead, I have managed to locate the file by searching. It was in the download folder, I deleted it via the pc and then did a factory reset on htc.
Would this get rid of it safely
Not only am I a newbie, but I am also a timid newbie. I am reluctant to mess around with the stock software, and OS that came with my gTab. Most of the great apps, and advice on this site requires you to either flash the tablet, or root the device, etc. I am WAY too chicken to try this. I would love to be able to get to the usual Market as I can on my phone. I would also like to use Swype. Is there any way to "open" up the tablet to these without "major" surgery? I think a list of apps that can be manually installed would be helpful to inexperienced "chickens" like me. Or any add ons, that might improve our new baby would be most appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Search is a wonderful thing, everyone should try it...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=858136
Warning, if you stick stock you may end up returning it
Flashing a room is not difficult if you read/search/research.
copc said:
Search is a wonderful thing, everyone should try it...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=858136
Warning, if you stick stock you may end up returning it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
Flashing a room is not difficult if you read/search/research.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is like buying a brand new car, and then replacing the engine. Fine for some, but really not necessary.
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
wasserkapf said:
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
That is like buying a brand new car, and then replacing the engine. Fine for some, but really not necessary.
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny I had to pull nothing out of my gtab? LOL
Why would I pull the Tegra out just to flash a rom?
PS there is a reason that thread was on page 3 as there are fewer that are not flashing roms.
Plus the original point was that the "SEARCH" was a wonderful thing.
wasserkapf said:
Reggie777: I am going to apply the newest update to my stock g-tablet. This usually wipes out all user changes, including installed apps. I will actually follow my own post about doing the changes. I can't remember everything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did the 1.0.1-3053 update, and it appears all previous changes remained. I did have to re-root it with the z4root app. Those complaining of problems after this update seem to be running a customized ROM. You won't have these problems unless you flash a customized ROM.
wasserkapf said:
Don't be ridiculous, it is fine with a few tweaks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This whole argument is ridiculous. Not a single rom has done a single thing to the underlying "Stock" structure. They are all based from the original "Stock" stuff. The only thing they do is either add or subtract from the original base software.
There is no magic here. If you buy a new car and put shiny new wheels on it you have done the same thing. The car still has the stock engine, and basic structure. If you bought a house that was painted pink and didn't like how it looked you might paint it. Same house, just a new look.
So, your stock with tweaks is essentially the same as my stock with tweaks. I just choose to install the majority of the tweaks at one time with a simple rom update. You do yours one by one..
I don't care what anyone does with there tablet as long as you don't use it to start World War III. But the my mods are better than your mods argument is kind of silly.
Do whatever makes you happy. All I can say is that pretty much no matter what you do it can be put back to original in about 5 minutes. Boot loops, hangs, funky looking screens.. All part of the learning process. Some people seem to be more prone to it. Most of the issues I see people have come from them getting in a big hurry, not thoroughly reading the instructions given with almost every mod, and then flashing away. Slow down, read, and understand what you are doing and it will all typically go just fine.
Sprdtyf350 said:
This whole argument is ridiculous. Not a single rom has done a single thing to the underlying "Stock" structure. They are all based from the original "Stock" stuff. The only thing they do is either add or subtract from the original base software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true.
Some of the mods are based on the zpad image, a completely different image than the g-tablet. My only objection is people saying flashing custom ROMS is a must. That is nonsense, and I will say so every time I see someone post that.
The more updates that ViewSonic put out, it seems the fewer "tweaks" that will be needed.
Can we keep the trolling to World of Warcraft?
There are minor to major changes that can be done ROM wise. What is important IMHO is to give choices to someone that is just starting.
I have the impression the op would like TnTLite version vs Vega or Cyanogen or even ZPad.
I did start like you... almost happy with stock. But the more basic things I needed I noticed the original TnT wasn't good enough. I have changed to TnTLite myself and couldn't be happier.
Just check that thread. Its one stop and change.
Good luck
Bingo! Choice is king, if you don't like the choice you choose go back to stock. But atleast show all your choices, we are not all wanting the same build, hence we are not talking IPADS.
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I gather that rooting the gTab is not such a big deal after all? I had started with the impression that rooting and flashing the rom were similar, and equally "dangerous". I DID find the thread that copc referred me to after my starting this thread. We all have to start somewhere as newbies. Thanks too to Wasserkapf for his help.
Rooting will still allow you to get all VS updates. Same with doing the Market install.
Flashing a ROM can be scary, especially if you have lots of stuff on your tablet. I found that investing in Titanium Backup (requires root) was a great idea. I do a full backup every time I flash my ROM and restore apps and data afterwards; I have never lost data nor settings.
If you decide to flash TnT Lite or VEGAn (which is coming along nicely and really brings the tablet to life IMO), there are not only many posts but many friendly folks who are here to help you out.
I am very happy with my G Tablet and this community has been immeasurably helpful in making it so useful.
-=Sent from my ViewSonic G Tablet (VEGAn) using Tapatalk=-
Reggie777 said:
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I gather that rooting the gTab is not such a big deal after all? I had started with the impression that rooting and flashing the rom were similar, and equally "dangerous". I DID find the thread that copc referred me to after my starting this thread. We all have to start somewhere as newbies. Thanks too to Wasserkapf for his help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly we all start as newbies, and it's places like this that are great help.
Good News, everyone. I used z4root, and was able to root my gTab. I also was able to install Launcher Pro, so that now when I turn it on, I get the option of going to the old familiar Android layout as on my Droid. Thanks for the encouragement from you'all. The sky did not fall. Yeah!
I do have some questions, though.
1. If I accidentally load in the TapnTap home screen, I cannot get back to the launcher pro. I cannot find it on the tablet to run it. I can find the apk and it offers to install it again. So, can anyone tell me where it is hidden?
2. I downloaded the vendors apk in an attempt to get the old android market place as on my phone. But it will not install. I am sure I am doing something wrong.
3. There are some icons to the right, the web, messages, and the phone. Is there a way to remove the ones that do not work? Only the web works. I understand that the phone would not, and even the messages. But how can I remove them?
Again, thanks for the moral support and encouragement. I still find the structure of the tablet confusing. Internal SD, external SD, root, etc. Anyone out there with the technical know how could make quite a few dollars by writing a book explaining the wonders, procedures, and pitfalls of our new tablet.
Reggie777 said:
Good News, everyone. I used z4root, and was able to root my gTab. I also was able to install Launcher Pro, so that now when I turn it on, I get the option of going to the old familiar Android layout as on my Droid. Thanks for the encouragement from you'all. The sky did not fall. Yeah!
I do have some questions, though.
1. If I accidentally load in the TapnTap home screen, I cannot get back to the launcher pro. I cannot find it on the tablet to run it. I can find the apk and it offers to install it again. So, can anyone tell me where it is hidden?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On my tablet, just hitting the Home icon in the upper-right corner will do that. It is the second one from the top, on the bezel of the screen.
2. I downloaded the vendors apk in an attempt to get the old android market place as on my phone. But it will not install. I am sure I am doing something wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is the second thing on my list of tweaks. You need to download and install several files. Please follow the instructions:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=827209
3. There are some icons to the right, the web, messages, and the phone. Is there a way to remove the ones that do not work? Only the web works. I understand that the phone would not, and even the messages. But how can I remove them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to drop a different icon, from the main screen 'Desktop' on top of it, essentially replacing it. To get different icons on the main screen, open the app drawer, and tap and hold an icon. To remove it from the main screen, tap and hold, and move it to the trash can on the right.
I got as far as downloading the zip file, unzipping it. But I am not sure what "mount as R/W" means. I am also not up on the structure of the storage of the Gtablet, and my computer sees .android_secure, Android, Backgrounds, backups, DCIM, download, and Lost.Dir. As a result, I am not sure where to copy the new files to. I moved the unzipped file to the download folder on the tablet. But I am not sure where to go from here. Being a newbie bites.
Reggie777 said:
I got as far as downloading the zip file, unzipping it. But I am not sure what "mount as R/W" means. I am also not up on the structure of the storage of the Gtablet, and my computer sees .android_secure, Android, Backgrounds, backups, DCIM, download, and Lost.Dir. As a result, I am not sure where to copy the new files to. I moved the unzipped file to the download folder on the tablet. But I am not sure where to go from here. Being a newbie bites.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought that the instructions were as clear as anyone could make them.
3. Using AndRootFile or any other file manager that supports root access, mount as R/W, and copy the contents of G Tablet\permissions to System\etc\permissions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That means to use a file manager that supports root browsing. The stock one doesn't, so you will need to install one. The link in the original post will get you the AndRootFile app, that should work. I purchased RootExplorer from the Android Market, so that is what I use. It has a "Mount R/W" button at the top, and I assume AndRootFile has something similar.
Oh, and root is to Unix/Linux/Android that Administrator is to Windows. You need root permissions to make system changes.
Once you have mounted it in R/W mode, copy the files to the folders that it says to. When done, don't forget to re-mount it in R/O mode before exiting.
My bad. I had used z4root to do the rooting. I'll try it with the one you suggested. Thanks.
Actually z4root should work for rooting the tablet. But it isn't a file browser with root access. That is where the other apps come into play.
OK. Here is my adventure so far. I got AndRootFile, and installed it. It is now working. But when I try to copy a file to another location, it does not want to copy the file. features.xml is an example of one that it shows the check box for copying, but when I get to the destination, there is nothing to paste. Frustrating. I also tried Rootexplorer, and have the same result. Now it looks as if the other new file in the new permissions folder copies, since it says it exists and do I want to overwrite. I said yes. But the second file, features does not show up even after I try to paste it. The good news is that I am figuring out the structure of the Beast, and so can move around much easier with AndRootFile, and RootExplorer. Thanks for your ongoing patience, and support.
It doesn't sound as if you are first mounting the file system in R/W (Read/Write) mode. And when finished, make sure you mount it back into R/O (Read/Only) mode before exiting.
[How to] Deal with Bloat Safely & Properly {Freeze Method/ROOT} | BIGGER LIST(S)! 3/1
UPDATE: 3/1/11 @ 23:49
BIGGER COMPREHENSIVE LIST
+
A "RECOMMENDED" LIST!
I'm holding off on a "Not Recommended" List for a bit until I get your guys thoughts on what should stay, be added, or be taken off of the recommended list!
PLEASE COMMENT WITH YOUR THOUGHTS!
(And thanks to kgeissler for a bunch of new frozen goods!)
__________________________________________________________________
You are here because...
You bought your Atrix and hate your cluttered app drawer, as well as the feeling that your phone has to fight with one hand behind it's back...hell, maybe blindfolded, too.
You want...
To get rid of as much of the bloat on your phone as possible. You want to de-Motoblur it. You want to de-AT&T it. You want to give it back its other hand, and maybe a small knife (not to mention doing away with the blindfold).
You don't want...
To modify your phone in a manner that would be harmful. You don't want a brick/paper weight/somehow broken device.
If this is you, keep reading.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
First Offs:
> This thread is meant to help, not hurt. That being said, if, after reading this thread and performing some of the procedures detailed within, you do end up damaging your phone, neither I nor any of the others who contributed can be held responsible in any way. By reading this and performing any of the said procedures, you take full responsibility for what might happen to your phone.
> Upon writing this, the Atrix has only been officially released for less than 5 days. Devs are still working to free the bootloader, and thus most users are still only able to perform rudimentary modifications to the phone. Please realize that this thread may become obsolete as developers become more familiar with the device and are able to write all sorts of one-clicks/recovery flashables to remove bloat! This brings us to...
> I will be doing my absolute best to update this as frequently as possible in the case that new methods and/or new dangers arise regarding file modification on our devices. If this thread ever becomes obsolete, it will be noted as such in both the thread title as well as being the first thing in the original post (this).
With all that said, let us continue:
One of the most valuable pieces of information regarding modifying the Atrix's files comes from TeamBlackHat's P3Droid, known on XDA as jimmydafish:
jimmydafish said:
Hello my name is P3Droid,
We (TBH) have a lot of experience in Motorola phones and hacking. This experience dates back to the Razr days.
Here is a word of caution. Do no delete apps from the System partition, I would suggest you only rename them to .bak. When Motorola pushes updates each of the files undergoes a hash check, if the file has been manipulated or is missing the entire update will fail.
Until a system only sbf or similar is released, unless you make a back up with bootstrap and recovery, you will eliminate your ability to take updates moving forward.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In summary: DO NOT DELETE APPS FROM THE SYSTEM PARTITION. This will result in the inability to receive official Motorola updates.
The thread from which the above quote was taken can be found here, and I would highly recommend that every single Atrix owner wishing to do any sort of file manipulation read it before doing anything else. It's only 4 pages, and well worth one's time.
So, how do we go about removing any bloat?
1) Any apps that are NOT in the system partition are safe to modify. Many have reported being able to remove apps by means of the standard Android applications manager. Details on this method can be found in this thread started by Fixter, who says:
Fixter said:
They can be removed by the Manage Applications settings. Very simple indeed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PLEASE NOTE: This method does NOT require root priviliges, and would be a very good place to start for more inexperienced users due to the relative ease and safety it affords. At the same time, it does not allow for access to some of the more deeply embedded apps/files you may wish to modify. This brings us to...
The Freezing Method
First suggested (to my knowledge) by acPIZZA:
acPIZZA said:
I suggest everyone that is rooted use TITANIUM BACKUP to deal with their bloatware issues. The pro version, which you will need, is only a few bucks and is worth it. TB allows you to 'freeze' bloatware apps, which to my knowledge just blocks it fro the system, but does not delete it. The apps you choose to freeze are also removed from the app tray - so no more clutter. This way when an update rolls around, you can run down the list and simply touch 'thaw' to bring those apps back to recognition. This seems like a much more efficient and easy way to go back and forth, rather than renaming the .apk's.
I apologize if someone already mentioned TB in this thread - I just skimmed quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In summary:
Use Titanium Backup's "Freeze" feature to deactivate or disable files. This method allows for the safe and long term deactivation of files in order to free up RAM/CPU resources, while allowing users to easily reactivate, or "Thaw"/"Defrost" the files if the need arises (official Motorola updates, requiring a certain functionality given by a file, etc). Note: This does not free up any storage on one's phone. It merely stops a phone process so that it does not consume RAM and/or processing power.
Prerequisites:
>Root privileges (procedure can be found here; thanks goes to designgears)
>Titanium Backup (application; can be found in/downloaded from the Android Market)
Note: The "Freeze" feature of TiBU is only available in the paid version of the app. TiBU Pro only costs $3.99, and is very useful beyond just what is discussed within this thread. (Trust me, I was hesitant to spend any money in the Android Market, but this has saved me countless hours of time and much of my sanity. It is well worth it.)
Procedure: (It's actually pretty simple)
1. Open Titanium Backup
2a. If previously unopened, click "Allow" on the Superuser dialog box- this grants TiBU the required root privileges
2b. If, for whatever reason, you do not grant TiBU superuser permission, don't panic- press the menu button and tap "Reload Application"; this should give you a second shot to give the necessary permission
2c. Alternatively, you can kill TiBU in a task manager and reopen it, also giving you that second chance
3. Navigate to the Backup/Restore section by clicking the corresponding little grey bubble at the top. This brings you to a list of all sorts of system/application elements.
4. From here, it's a simple matter of tapping (not long-clicking) on an element to bring up a dialog box. This box will contain options to, among other things, backup, uninstall, and freeze.
At this point regarding Atrix development,
YOU ARE TO TOUCH NOTHING BUT "FREEZE"...EVER. (I guess "Back up" is also fine, but that is not relevant).
Note: To Defrost/Thaw an element, simply repeat steps 1-4, instead selecting the Defrost/Thaw option.
ALSO, I personally have found that any changes made by freezing will only take effect after a reboot. Ultimately, even if this isn't the case, I suggest a reboot anyways (just for good measure). I don't believe there's a need to do this after every single time you Freeze an element, just once after you've Frozen all you'd like.
This of course brings us to...
Elements that are safe to Freeze:
Note:
This list is likely to change as more elements are found to be safe to touch. At the same time, if an element is ever found to cause problems after being Frozen, the list will be updated as soon as possible. Here we go...
The first post containing "Safe-to-Freeze" apps can be found here (Thank you, snlu178). I did not quote this post so as to avoid confusion, though I will be incorporating the list of elements in the linked post into my list. Once again, I owe a big thanks to snlu178 for the risk he took, as well taking the time to list the apps he found safe to Freeze.
The List: (Alphabetized, I believe)
*Disclaimer: Some of these elements correspond to docking/widget functionality. If something appears to be linked to a certain functionality that you need/want, DO NOT TAMPER WITH IT.
COMPREHENSIVE LIST
AdService 1.0
Alarm & Timer 2.2.1
AtCommandService 1.1
AT&T Code Scanner
AT&T Family Map
AT&T Navigator
Blockbuster 0.6
Blur.res 2.2.1
BrowserMessage 2.0.0
Cardock 1.0
com.android.providers.applications 2.2.1
com.motorola.android.extdispservice 1.0.0
com.motorola.android.syncml.service 2.2.1
com.motorola.photowidget 2.2.1
Contacts Sync 2.2.1 (google contacts will still sync)
ContactsUnconnected 2.2.1
Data Manager Service 1.1 (internet and data still works)
Desk Home 2.2.1
DLNA 0709.69
DlnaSystemService 1.0
DMService 1.0.0
DRM Protected Content Storage 2.2.1
Entertainment Center 1.0
Files 2.2.1
Forest Wallpaper 1.0
FOTA 2.2.1 (THIS DIRECTLY AFFECTS OFFICIAL MOTOROLA OVER-THE-AIR FIRMWARE UPDATES! NOT RECOMMENDED AT ALL!)
Help Center
Home 2.2.1 (this is the default Motoblur launcher; as such, have a home replacement already installed and set as the default if you wish to freeze this!)
Home Screen Tips
Live TV
LocationProxyDmPlugin 2.2.1
Mediashare 1.0.0
MediaSync 1.0.0
Mobile Desktop 1.0
Motorola Dock Service 1.0
myAT&T 1.0
News & Weather 1.3.03 (Android widget, not Motoblur, just FYI)
News 2.2.1
NFS Shift 1.1.73
Purchased Media 1.0
Quick Contact 2.2.1
Quick Tutorial 0.0.1
Quickoffice
SDMService 1.0
Social Messaging 2.2.1
Social Messaging Service 2.2.1
Social Networking 2.2.1
Social Sharing 2.2.1
Social Status 2.2.1
Sticky Note 2.2.1
Swype
SyncML 2.2.1
Task Manager 9.0
Terminal Emulator (I & others believe this may affect ADB functionality; though safe, freezing this is not necessarily recommended!)
Toggle Widgets
Universal Inbox 2.2.1
VLingo
Voice Commands
Weather 2.2.1
Webtop Connector
Work Contacts 2.2.1
YPmobile
RECOMMENDED LIST -----------------------------------> {UNDER EVALUATION |:::::|:::::|:::::| PLEASE COMMENT!}
Alarm & Timer 2.2.1
AtCommandService 1.1
AT&T Code Scanner
AT&T Family Map
AT&T Navigator
Blockbuster 0.6
com.motorola.photowidget 2.2.1
Entertainment Center 1.0
Help Center
Home Screen Tips
Live TV
Mediashare 1.0.0
MediaSync 1.0.0
myAT&T 1.0
News 2.2.1
NFS Shift 1.1.73
Quick Contact 2.2.1
Quick Tutorial 0.0.1
Quickoffice
Social Messaging 2.2.1
Social Messaging Service 2.2.1
Social Networking 2.2.1
Social Sharing 2.2.1
Social Status 2.2.1
Sticky Note 2.2.1
Toggle Widgets
Universal Inbox 2.2.1
VLingo
Voice Commands
Weather 2.2.1
YPmobile
Miscellaneous:
If you happen to SNAFU your phone, as of right now your best bet is this procedure laid out by designgears.
Thanks to:
designgears
Getaphixx
Fixter
snlu178
acPIZZA
franciscojavierleon
numerous TeamBlackHat members (esp. P3Droid/Jimmydafish, cellzealot)
our dear forum moderator, Mr. Clown (thanks for the sticky!)
reserved (just in case, I suppose)
Thanks for the mention friend. We need to make sure we tell them that Freeze is a paid feature of Titanium Backup paid version.
Hmm, so I was dump and didn't read the sentence in the parenthesis next to Home 2.2.1. I froze it without have something else and now after a reboot my phone is stuck at the AT&T Rethink Possible Screen. Any ideas?
Fixter said:
Thanks for the mention friend. We need to make sure we tell them that Freeze is a paid feature of Titanium Backup paid version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is the freeze option the equivalent of just renaming the .apk to .bak? If so, it could be an alternative to buying tibu.
This is great. Thanks for getting it stickied.
Re: the no home rebooting nag this point, check out the post on recovering from a soft boot. You will have to learn about adb, but you can get the phone back to life. Anyone else have a faster way to factory reset?
franciscojavierleon said:
is the freeze option the equivalent of just renaming the .apk to .bak? If so, it could be an alternative to buying tibu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In a sense yes. But TiBu is faster and I would argue has less user error. Plus the app is so great you should spend the money to support the dev. But, you can go through changing the names.
Thanks for staying on top of things, snlu178.
I should have a moment now to update a couple of things, including the mention that the freeze feature is paid only (something I was wondering about but didn't want to speak on too soon; thanks again, Fixter).
Also, regarding the ghetto .bak alternative, does that require Root Explorer? I guess I'd be willing to mention it, but ultimately, if it's a matter of buying Root Explorer, then I might just confine this thread to dealing with TiBU.
Let me work on a small revision, and also make sure freezing Home 2.2.1 can be risky if done so improperly.
xyrovice said:
Also, regarding the ghetto .bak alternative, does that require Root Explorer? I guess I'd be willing to mention it, but ultimately, if it's a matter of buying Root Explorer, then I might just confine this thread to dealing with TiBU.
Let me work on a small revision, and also make sure freezing Home 2.2.1 can be risky if done so improperly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just found out root explorer is also paid. Not that i don't want to pay, it's just that i am new at android (atrix will ship down here in about 2 weeks) and don't know if the market accepts credit cards from Venezuela yet. I will try...
My guess is that there should be a way to rename files from the adb shell as well. Either that, or install openssh or something on the phone and then just su and rename. It's linux, after all.
About freezing home, besides having already installed another launcher like launcher pro or adw, i guess it should be active before freezing it? To avoid force close or other problems.
Have you tried using google checkout?
franciscojavierleon said:
Just found out root explorer is also paid. Not that i don't want to pay, it's just that i am new at android (atrix will ship down here in about 2 weeks) and don't know if the market accepts credit cards from Venezuela yet. I will try...
My guess is that there should be a way to rename files from the adb shell as well. Either that, or install openssh or something on the phone and then just su and rename. It's linux, after all.
About freezing home, besides having already installed another launcher like launcher pro or adw, i guess it should be active before freezing it? To avoid force close or other problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really good idea. I don't know if it's necessary, but always better safe than sorry. I will add a notice to not only have another launcher installed, but also "defaulted".
xyrovice said:
Really good idea. I don't know if it's necessary, but always better safe than sorry. I will add a notice to not only have another launcher installed, but also "defaulted".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you install something like ADW and nothing else. Home = Motoblur is completely deactivated. Its like ADW becomes the default home app. You'll need app switcher to get back to it.
Fixter said:
When you install something like ADW and nothing else. Home = Motoblur is completely deactivated. Its like ADW becomes the default home app. You'll need app switcher to get back to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ducking out for a sec, but I'll make a note of this when I get the chance. And do you mean home switcher?
xyrovice said:
Ducking out for a sec, but I'll make a note of this when I get the chance. And do you mean home switcher?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes Sir, sorry.
xyrovice said:
Ducking out for a sec, but I'll make a note of this when I get the chance. And do you mean home switcher?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there's moto home fix in the Market specifically for moto phones with blur for this.
franciscojavierleon said:
there's moto home fix in the Market specifically for moto phones with blur for this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know this. I was just stating a fact.
I agree to call out the need to have a new home app installed and defaulted prior.
Moto Home Fix is what switches back to Home 2.2.1 (if it's not frozen).
Also, though Home 2.2.1 is not default when you have a new launcher it still runs in the background draining CPU and RAM. And every bit you save helps in my book.
I compared running services on my Nexus One (with CM7) with my Atrix and tried disabling services that were on the Atrix, but not on the N1. I have froze the following with no ill effects yet....
I am not running Blur, I am running Launcher Pro.
If anyone recognizes any of these that I should defrost, please let me know.
AdService 1.0
AtCommandService 1.1
blur.res 2.2.1
BrowserMessage 2.0.0
com.android.providers.applications 2.2.1
com.motorola.android.extdispservice 1.0.0
com.motorola.android.syncml.service 2.2.1
com.motorola.photowidget 2.2.1
Contacts Sync 2.2.1 (google contacts will still sync)
ContactsUnconnected 2.2.1
Data Manager Service 1.1 (internet and data still works)
Desk Home 2.2.1
DLNA 0709.69
DlnaSystemService 1.0
DMService 1.0.0
DRM Protected Content Storage 2.2.1
Entertainment Center 1.0
Files 2.2.1
Forest Wallpaper 1.0
FOTA 2.2.1
Help Center 2.2.1
Home 2.2.1
Home Screen Tips 2.2.1
LocationProxyDmPlugin 2.2.1
MediaShare 1.0.0
MediaSync 1.0.0
Mobile Desktop 1.0
News 2.2.1
Purchased Media 1.0
Quick Contact 2.2.1
Quick Tutorial 0.0.1
SDMService 1.0
Social Messaging 2.2.1
Social Messaging Service 2.2.1
Social Networking 2.2.1
Social Sharing 2.2.1
Social Status 2.2.1
Sticky Note 2.2.1
SyncML 2.2.1
Task Manager 9.0
Toggle Widgets 2.2.1
Universal Inbox 2.2.1
Voice Commands
VPN Services 2.2.1
Weather 2.2.1
Work Contacts 2.2.1
Titanium Backup
Can Titanium Backup be placed on the SD card, or does it need to be kept in the main phone memory? Haven't seen this addressed anywhere and I have little experience with apps functioning from SD cards.
Fixter said:
Thanks for the mention friend. We need to make sure we tell them that Freeze is a paid feature of Titanium Backup paid version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, thanks for the mention.
Also, in my quote - I mention the paid version.
Development dropped in favor of Liberation.
Only difference between Nothing Special 1.3 and Liberation 1.0 is that Google Car Home has been replaced by the stock HTC Car Panel. This is to remove "holes" left by the removal of a stock app. Also, this no longer conflicts with my intent of having a stock ROM minus carrier bloat/restrictions. Google Car Home can be added by the user if they so choose.
Great job. All the stock roms seem to be outdated.
SX Reapz!
Looks nice. Is there any benefit, though, over RUUing, adb shell, and then using rm to delete CityID etc?
pianoplayer said:
Looks nice. Is there any benefit, though, over RUUing, adb shell, and then using rm to delete CityID etc?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A few.
Apply this ROM is faster than using the RUU, re-rooting, and then manually deleting the programs you want. On the plus side, the slower method lets you delete any program YOU want, rather than being a one-size fits all type deal.
I'm using a memory/task killing teak offered by the Android Kitchen that is a bit more aggressive in memory conservation. This should give a slight performance boost over the RUU.
So really, it's more of a convenience than using the RUU. Many people who flash ROMs don't even know how to remove programs via ADB.
what kind of feed back are you looking for, there is more bloat but that is kinda user preference I remove almost everything and leave just the apps, kinda like the magnoila desenseitize but i do it manually bucause that wont flash for me on the stock rom
so far so good, can you post the list of addons i see carhome which is a good move
tjamscad said:
what kind of feed back are you looking for, there is more bloat but that is kinda user preference I remove almost everything and leave just the apps, kinda like the magnoila desenseitize but i do it manually bucause that wont flash for me on the stock rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to make sure that I didn't screw anything up. Everyone has a different definition of "bloat." I decided to leave whatever HTC/Google apps came with the phone, and removed Verizon's additional bloat. Removing HTC's apps and cause minor stability issues that the casual user won't want to deal with. Those who know how to manually remove the apps tend to know how to deal with the minor issues that crop up.
tjamscad said:
so far so good, can you post the list of addons i see carhome which is a good move
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had Car Home listed under removed apps as the replacement for HTC Car Panel. I've copied it under features as well as per your suggestion. Otherwise, that's pretty much it.
If you want to further remove apps, a very simple way to do so is to unzip the package, delete the APKs under /system/app that you don't want, re-zip using a program like 7-ZIP (free), then flash it.
You can also do this to package ring tones in the /system/media folder so that they are stored in /system, don't take up user space, and will work correctly even when the device is USB mounted or just booting up.
do i use rom manager/ clockwork to flash this rom???
ahjdmarchi said:
do i use rom manager/ clockwork to flash this rom???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't use ROM Manager, so I couldn't tell you how to use it in that way. I just download and flash via Clockwork Recovery.
i have used clockwork and rom manager both work just fine
how do you feel about removing the HTCSetupWizzard.apk I find it to be bothersome when i have install a new rom and that pops up. I am not tring to be a jerk just throwing things out there. its your rom
VZW backup assistant, vzw 3g hot spot
tjamscad said:
how do you feel about removing the HTCSetupWizzard.apk I find it to be bothersome when i have install a new rom and that pops up. I am not tring to be a jerk just throwing things out there. its your rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're absolutely not being a jerk. Like I said, no ROM will make everyone happy. Any user is free to modify the zip and delete the APKs (and corresponding odex files) from the /system/app folder prior to flashing.
HTCSetupWizard only pops up when data is wiped. On the "stable" release, if you just do a flash over, (same on any future upgrades) it won't pop up.
tjamscad said:
VZW backup assistant, vzw 3g hot spot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Deleting VZW backup assistant causes a "hole" in HTC's setup wizard. The point of this ROM was to maintain the user experience while deleting unused bloat. Also, this ROM pre-dates both Google's backup option as well as HTC's Sense.com option, so VZWBackup is a decent free alternative.
The 3G Hotspot option isn't made by Verizon, it's an HTC app (it's the same app on their unlocked phones). Some people, for whatever reason, will pay for tethering. They need this app to do so and it's not replaceable via the Android/VCAST markets. Also, there's a way to use this app to tether for free, essentially disabling the aspect that reports to Verizon. However, due to questionably legality, I can't detail how that works here.
However, I see your points, and I'll look at it more when I get back from my business trip.
Looking for a good "stock" ROM to replace Virtuous which seems to have been abandoned.
Any first hand experiences with this ROM? I'm starting to think the silence is a good thing (no problems).
I run it with Lou's #8 and it's running absolutely flawlessly. No complaints.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Installed this last night and so far it has been awesome! Very Snappy too.
Titanium seems to be broken, telling me it doesn't have root/BusyBox (even though I granted it root permissions), but I don't think it's the ROM since everything else that uses root works (Root explorer, ROM Manager, etc). Not a big deal since I can just use AppBrain, although a little more work involved there.
This is just what I was hoping for! Thanks.
craighwk said:
Installed this last night and so far it has been awesome! Very Snappy too.
Titanium seems to be broken, telling me it doesn't have root/BusyBox (even though I granted it root permissions), but I don't think it's the ROM since everything else that uses root works (Root explorer, ROM Manager, etc). Not a big deal since I can just use AppBrain, although a little more work involved there.
This is just what I was hoping for! Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At the bottom of titanium click "Problems?" And it will fix that problem by downloading busybox. Hope it helps.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
all good no problems, when do you consider it stable? Not sure you could do anything else to it with out loosing the stock start over feel.
THis is just what i've been looking for, im not too crazy for those roms with 5h!tty mods and ugly colors, just wanted a stock without the bload, just google and HTC stuff and this one seems to offer that.
So nothing got broken in the process of removing the bloat right? will work just like the stock minus the bloat?
Would LOVE to get a ROM like this but with Sense 2.0 in it, now that would be awesome!
Great to always have a copy of this on your SD card. As a backup rom, for those of us who forget to nandroid sometimes
Hi All,
Having already committed the original sin on my first Droid3, and seeing the profusion of various threads (good threads, mostly) developing here, I would like to commit a thread to be stickied that will include rooting guides, safe bloat removal guides, exploit scripts, (and we hope!) ROMs and Recoveries. If this is a good idea and the Moderators will approve of it, please help me help you help me help you by posting:
1. Type of Mod/Guide/Script/Recovery/ROM/SBF/Image/etc
2. Device it applies to (eg Droid3 US, XT8xx, country, telco etc)
3. Level of Difficulty (n00b --> coding wizard)
4. Risk Level (from installing market app --> damn near microwaving your D3)
5. External thread for file hosting, cross-linked sites, etc
6. Android version (2.3.4 --> ???)
suggestions to further categories will be appreciated!
Thanks all, let's make the D3/XT a quality, fun, and safe modding platform by working together.
Obviously, I will be the maintainer of this thread, unless someone else feels they have a religious duty to take it instead!
I would love a proper list of apps that can be frozen/renamed for when I get my droid 3.
I know there's a script and several topics/posts with 'safely to remove' apps, but most still list apps that cause minor faults/bugs like calender not working etc.
DoubleYouPee said:
I would love a proper list of apps that can be frozen/renamed for when I get my droid 3.
I know there's a script and several topics/posts with 'safely to remove' apps, but most still list apps that cause minor faults/bugs like calender not working etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure that any app not relating to the Framework can be safely removed. That is a pretty short list: Citrix, the games, and that's just about it.
volcanomike said:
Something with the built in text messaging causes picture messages to not be received when disabled with your script
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's more stuff out there that make me not want to use the script.
I'd just want to remove all the obvious bloatware without destroying core features of the phone.
DoubleYouPee said:
There's more stuff out there that make me not want to use the script.
I'd just want to remove all the obvious bloatware without destroying core features of the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's put it this way: if you can download it from the Market for Free or for Money, you should be able to zap (freeze, move, or delete) it without consequence.
Until then, wait for AOSP or rebased/ported ROMs to appear.
rynosaur said:
Let's put it this way: if you can download it from the Market for Free or for Money, you should be able to zap (freeze, move, or delete) it without consequence.
Until then, wait for AOSP or rebased/ported ROMs to appear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't care about deleting apps that can't be downloaded from the market as long as they don't affect anything important