Alternative to USB storage: wifi storage from your phone - Nexus 7 General

In case you don't know and if storage is an issue for you, you can use USB storage devices like flash drive, SD card reader, etc. by using an microUSB OTG cable, root your phone, and install Stickmount as per this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1736825
However, I was also looking into alternative methods to increase indirectly increase storage capacity like things like videos and media. Media including videos and music, I believe is the number one reason why people want to increase their storage, so we will concentrate on that. My example scenario will be wanting to watch a movie on a plane (in which there is no wifi internet available).
There are wifi hard drives like Kingston wi-drive and Seagate GoFlex Satellite wifi drives that would work (haven't tested myself), but those arent' cheap. CloudFTP is similar but is still expensive. I would like to see a similar device without any onboard memory, but at a cheaper price, basically something like CloudFTP but at around $50-60. If anybody knows of one, that would be great!!
Then I thought about why not use the hardware you already have and carry with you at all times, your phone? It has wifi and it has expandable memory (most do at least). It would be great if an app can allow you create a wifi network (ad hoc network?) that Nexus 7 connect to and can then share the storage on your phone.
Well, I couldn't find one that does all of that in one step, but I did manage to get it to work with a few steps based on this reply by mrfahrenheit94 (THANKS!):
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28818320#post28818320
Basically:
1. Wifi tether your Nexus 7 to your phone (ie Wireless Tether for rooted phone).
2. Run Es File Explorer on your phone (latest version I am using version 1.6.1.6 from Play market, just make sure it supports remote FTP server). Go to Settings, then Remote Settings (Under Network Settings). Check Remote Manage. It will display an ftp address.
2. Run ES File Explorer on Nexus 7. On the upper left hand corner, press the button that probably says Local by default and has a small down arrow. Select FTP. Now press "New" and then select FTP again to add FTP server, Under Server, enter the FTP address that was displayed at the end on step 2 on your phone (do not enter the "ftp://" part, just the numbers after it), but only enter the adress before the colon. Under port enter the number after the colon. Then check the anonymous box. Press OK and now you should have that FTP address as an icon. Select it and you should now see your phone's files and folders. Now you should be able to navigate to your video or media files and select it to play using an external media player. I suggest using Dice Player (free with Ad version). VLC Beta may work as well but I seem to have more luck with Dice Player.
Main drawback will be battery life especially on the phone!!!!
Thus I tried to do this with bluetooth by using Foxfi to tether. At home it worked and I was able to stream a video although very slight stutter at times. However, i realize that Foxfi only worked when my phone has an internet connection (which is not true when on an airplane).
THUS, IF YOU ARE GOING TO TEST THIS, TURN OFF YOUR CELLULAR DATA CONNECTION TO TEST IF IT WILL WORK WHEN YOU HAVE NO INTERNET LIKE ON A PLANE.
It does for the Wireless Tether app on Play market even without internet.
What I would like to know and for us to discuss:
1. Any other alternative methods for using wifi storage?
2. Any app that is similar to Foxfi that can Bluetooth tether but doesn't require an internet connection?
3. Any app that can just create a network connection between the two android devices without actual tether feature?
4. A IOS app similar to ES File Explorer to navigate ftp server. Maybe set it up in XBMC?
5. Any interest in a developer creating a one step app that connects and share two devices via wifi and/or bluetooth without any tethering (and thus would work for nonrooted phones)?
One thing I envisioned was one a plane I bring nexus 7 for the kids and my asus TF300 for myself. I would love it if I can share the videos from the TF300 which has a larger capapcity and bigger battery than my phone to the Nexus 7, but I couldn't get Wireless Tether to work on the Asus Tf300 (probably because it is not a phone). Hence, the request for #3 above.
I apologize if this is common knowledge and a waste of time for many of you.

my RAZR can tether and it has 8+16Gb of storage. and it also has 6Gb/month data connection.
oh yes, im planning on tether-connect it with the Nexus.... alot.... for videos and data.

It's good to have alternative methods like this, as a lot of people will certainly use it. Since my phone is in pretty poor shape all around, I doubt I'll utilize it anymore than I have to until I get an upgrade. Personally I'm going to go the USB OTG route with StickMount for long rides/traveling/etc, basically in situations where I might actually find myself watching a few movies back to back to burn up the travel time. I can't see in regular day to day operation needing that functionality, but at least it's there for the rare occasion where I might benefit from it. :good:

You could use bubble pnp to share files from your phone when connected to a LAN. For direct access I know there is a app that allows you to share your storage thru samba. It was just reviewed on android police, I'll try to find the link.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE

david279 said:
You could use bubble pnp to share files from your phone when connected to a LAN. For direct access I know there is a app that allows you to share your storage thru samba. It was just reviewed on android police, I'll try to find the link.
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that would be cool!

Connection Speed
I'm only getting like 100KB/s download speed by using this method. Way to slow for streaming video. Even with a 8MB buffer size. Is this a similar speed to what you guys are getting? I'm tethering with FoxiFi from my EVO 4G LTE. My phone is rooted, but for some reason, this is the only tethering method/app that has worked for me. Any suggestions?

The name of the app is SyncMe wireless. It turns your phone into a samba share(or cifs share).
Sent from my EVO 4G LTE

I found a way to connect the TF300 with the Nexus 7 just for the sake of sharing the storage of the TF300. Thanks to another thread on xda, i discovered Wifi Direct works great, and is plenty fast. I think Wifi Direct is only found in some versions of ICS. Took me a while to figure out how to turn it on since it is different for each tablet. On Nexus 7, it is in the settings button in the upper right hand corner when you are in Wi-Fi- settings.
On TF300, I think it is in the "more" section or "advanced" section under Network subsection.
Will give SyncMe a try.
Does it also create its own ad hoc network, or do you still have to connect via wifi somehow?

superflysocal said:
I found a way to connect the TF300 with the Nexus 7 just for the sake of sharing the storage of the TF300. Thanks to another thread on xda, i discovered Wifi Direct works great, and is plenty fast. I think Wifi Direct is only found in some versions of ICS. Took me a while to figure out how to turn it on since it is different for each tablet. On Nexus 7, it is in the settings button in the upper right hand corner when you are in Wi-Fi- settings.
On TF300, I think it is in the "more" section or "advanced" section under Network subsection.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just ordered my N7 and was just wondering exactly which app you are using on the N7 to actually find the files on your TF300 to stream. I have a Galaxy S3 that I know can share files with WI-FI direct. I just need to know what to get on the N7 you be able to see the files.
Thanks!

I am reviving this thread because I was interested in a method of streaming multimedia from my s3 to the N7.
Using 3G is not possible because in Argentina the speed of networks are pure SH*T, and the method of ES FIle Explorer did not work for me.
BUT I found a way in other forum (androidcentral, thanks to rubrnek), and basically these are the steps:
1) on the phone install Twonky Mobile
2) on the N7 install aVia media player
3) turn on wifi hitspot on the phone and connect the N7 to it
4) set up twonky library on the phone
5) open aVia media player on the N7 and select Twonky Mobile as the source
6) Navigate the files and play!
I was amazed on how fast it works, I did not tried a 720p or 1080p movie, since it is an overkill in my opinion (mostly a 1080p movie on a phone or tablet), I just tried photos and an DVDRIP AVI of Bill&Ted movie and it plays like it was a local file, the best part is that open the file with Dice player, not some rare player.
Now I have an 88gb Nexus 7

superflysocal said:
In case you don't know and if storage is an issue for you, you can use USB storage devices like flash drive, SD card reader, etc. by using an microUSB OTG cable, root your phone, and install Stickmount as per this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1736825
However, I was also looking into alternative methods to increase indirectly increase storage capacity like things like videos and media. Media including videos and music, I believe is the number one reason why people want to increase their storage, so we will concentrate on that. My example scenario will be wanting to watch a movie on a plane (in which there is no wifi internet available).
There are wifi hard drives like Kingston wi-drive and Seagate GoFlex Satellite wifi drives that would work (haven't tested myself), but those arent' cheap. CloudFTP is similar but is still expensive. I would like to see a similar device without any onboard memory, but at a cheaper price, basically something like CloudFTP but at around $50-60. If anybody knows of one, that would be great!!
Then I thought about why not use the hardware you already have and carry with you at all times, your phone? It has wifi and it has expandable memory (most do at least). It would be great if an app can allow you create a wifi network (ad hoc network?) that Nexus 7 connect to and can then share the storage on your phone.
Well, I couldn't find one that does all of that in one step, but I did manage to get it to work with a few steps based on this reply by mrfahrenheit94 (THANKS!):
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28818320#post28818320
Basically:
1. Wifi tether your Nexus 7 to your phone (ie Wireless Tether for rooted phone).
2. Run Es File Explorer on your phone (latest version I am using version 1.6.1.6 from Play market, just make sure it supports remote FTP server). Go to Settings, then Remote Settings (Under Network Settings). Check Remote Manage. It will display an ftp address.
2. Run ES File Explorer on Nexus 7. On the upper left hand corner, press the button that probably says Local by default and has a small down arrow. Select FTP. Now press "New" and then select FTP again to add FTP server, Under Server, enter the FTP address that was displayed at the end on step 2 on your phone (do not enter the "ftp://" part, just the numbers after it), but only enter the adress before the colon. Under port enter the number after the colon. Then check the anonymous box. Press OK and now you should have that FTP address as an icon. Select it and you should now see your phone's files and folders. Now you should be able to navigate to your video or media files and select it to play using an external media player. I suggest using Dice Player (free with Ad version). VLC Beta may work as well but I seem to have more luck with Dice Player.
Main drawback will be battery life especially on the phone!!!!
Thus I tried to do this with bluetooth by using Foxfi to tether. At home it worked and I was able to stream a video although very slight stutter at times. However, i realize that Foxfi only worked when my phone has an internet connection (which is not true when on an airplane).
THUS, IF YOU ARE GOING TO TEST THIS, TURN OFF YOUR CELLULAR DATA CONNECTION TO TEST IF IT WILL WORK WHEN YOU HAVE NO INTERNET LIKE ON A PLANE.
It does for the Wireless Tether app on Play market even without internet.
What I would like to know and for us to discuss:
1. Any other alternative methods for using wifi storage?
2. Any app that is similar to Foxfi that can Bluetooth tether but doesn't require an internet connection?
3. Any app that can just create a network connection between the two android devices without actual tether feature?
4. A IOS app similar to ES File Explorer to navigate ftp server. Maybe set it up in XBMC?
5. Any interest in a developer creating a one step app that connects and share two devices via wifi and/or bluetooth without any tethering (and thus would work for nonrooted phones)?
One thing I envisioned was one a plane I bring nexus 7 for the kids and my asus TF300 for myself. I would love it if I can share the videos from the TF300 which has a larger capapcity and bigger battery than my phone to the Nexus 7, but I couldn't get Wireless Tether to work on the Asus Tf300 (probably because it is not a phone). Hence, the request for #3 above.
I apologize if this is common knowledge and a waste of time for many of you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does this method also allow us to transfer files from phone to the tablet? I do not have the device yet, but will be getting it soon and one thing that bothered me was the lack of USB Mass Storage option when connecting to a PC. I prefer transferring files directly rather than MTP. Do apps like AirDroid work?

superflysocal said:
Basically
1. Wifi tether your Nexus 7 to your phone (ie Wireless Tether for rooted phone).
2. Run Es File Explorer on your phone (latest version I am using version 1.6.1.6 from Play market, just make sure it supports remote FTP server). Go to Settings, then Remote Settings (Under Network Settings). Check Remote Manage. It will display an ftp address.
2. Run ES File Explorer on Nexus 7. On the upper left hand corner, press the button that probably says Local by default and has a small down arrow. Select FTP. Now press "New" and then select FTP again to add FTP server, Under Server, enter the FTP address that was displayed at the end on step 2 on your phone (do not enter the "ftp://" part, just the numbers after it), but only enter the adress before the colon. Under port enter the number after the colon. Then check the anonymous box. Press OK and now you should have that FTP address as an icon. Select it and you should now see your phone's files and folders. Now you should be able to navigate to your video or media files and select it to play using an external media player. I suggest using Dice Player (free with Ad version). VLC Beta may work as well but I seem to have more luck with Dice Player.
Main drawback will be battery life especially on the phone!!!!
Thus I tried to do this with bluetooth by using Foxfi to tether. At home it worked and I was able to stream a video although very slight stutter at times. However, i realize that Foxfi only worked when my phone has an internet connection (which is not true when on an airplane).
THUS, IF YOU ARE GOING TO TEST THIS, TURN OFF YOUR CELLULAR DATA CONNECTION TO TEST IF IT WILL WORK WHEN YOU HAVE NO INTERNET LIKE ON A PLANE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OMG! Thanks so much for this ultra simple phone to tablet "local wifi ftp connection" method. Most important we need is just a wifi tether/ hotspot phone or tab, which 99% of android do, i believe. I've tried to connect all my SGS1, SGS2, SGtab7.7, HP Touchpad (TP, no usg otg) n they all connect flawlessly. IMO, this method is even more versatile than "Wifi Direct" comes with Samsung devices, which feels a tad faster. Why bother w installing other apps, when u can get done w 1 great free app, ESbrowser.
To my surprise, i also learned that wifi tethering function actually works with mobile data disconnect, through this.
Triple thks for your tutorial, excellent work. High Five!

Got this to work with esfile explorer between my N7 & SG3. One question though.
When I browse the files on my SG3, I can't see the files on my external sd card, only the ones on the internal memory. Anyone have any ideas on how to access the external card?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

joelgrice said:
Got this to work with esfile explorer between my N7 & SG3. One question though.
When I browse the files on my SG3, I can't see the files on my external sd card, only the ones on the internal memory. Anyone have any ideas on how to access the external card?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Enter ES File Explorer settings on your phone, then Remote Settings and finally Set root directory path for your external card. Hope it helps.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
---------- Post added at 10:55 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:50 AM ----------
I got GS2 AOKP and my path to external card is /emmc/
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

Related

Is this possible?

Hi Guys,
Not sure if this should go here or the programming thread, but here it goes....
I've got a TyTN II, and am currently in the process of installing a PC in my car. I'm writing a front end application which will server as an interface for music, videos, internet etc; all voice actived . I would like however, to connect my TyTN II to the PC for internet access (that one's easy, as I can just enable internet sharing), but what I'd also like to be able to do is connect the phone (either via bluetooth or USB), and send/receive SMS txts from/to an app running on a PC. I would also like to be able (once connected), to make/receive calls on the PC, using the headphone and microphone of the PC ..... Is this possible or am I dreaming?? Is there any APIs to allow me to communicate with the phone in this way, or any tricks to setting up the phone as a voice modem??
Cheers everyone
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=475465&highlight=remote
if you are looking for something that is already made for your use case as opposed to developing yourself, i highly highly highly recommend "WIFI Remote Access v1.7r1"...it is freeware to the best of my knowledge.
don't be fooled by the "WIFI" in the name. it works just as well via an activesync connection as well. the following use cases will be possible from the browser in your pc after establishing a connection:
1. reading/writing smses
2. viewing pictures stored on the phone
3. general accessing and management of files and folders on the phone and its storage card
4. the phone's registry access and management (!!!)
5. playback of music stored on the phone and its storage card (within the browser!!!)
6. the phone's screen can also appear in the browser and you can "remote desktop" the phone, essentially able to control the phone from the browser as if you actually had the device in your hand.
all that and a bit more, and it works best with internet explorer 7 and 8. the interface in the browser is beautiful and the setup is idiot proof
that sounds amazing!!! .... I had a look at the others from the previous post, but having issues with them ..... Will have a look now

Accessory review: the Kingston Wi-Drive

This section is flooded with case threads, so I decided to write up some first impressions on a different type of accessory: the Kingston Wi-Drive.
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Kingston-Wi-D...=UTF8&qid=1342506312&sr=8-1&keywords=wi-drive
(I bought it from Best Buy since I had a gift card from there)
Flavors: 16gb, 32gb, and 64gb (I got the 32gb)
Specs: http://www.kingston.com/us/usb/wireless/#wid
Since I'm not too experienced with reviews, I'll post a nice one I read before buying... it has a link to a nice video with it in action: http://androidspin.com/2012/03/27/k...adds-new-features-and-just-plain-works-great/
Because I have the 8gb Nexus 7, I looked for some type of portable external storage... and since there currently isn't a way to play files directly from an OTG + USB drive (edited: looks like OTG+USB drive works for some but not for others... there is a thread in the accessories section that is keeping track of the drives that allow you to play media directly from them... thanks for the heads up mewantnexus7), I wanted to look into a wi-fi drive. As there are a few in the market (Seagate GoFlex Satellite, Transcend Storejet, maybe more), I will give you some of the reasons why I chose this one and my initial impressions of the device.
Reasons for choosing the Wi-Drive over the competition:
1. SSD (Seagate and Transcend have received complaints about the drives quitting on their users... both have HDDs)
2. More portable (very small and light... about the size of the Nexus One maybe... but way thinner. Maybe more comparable to an ipod touch... but haven't handled an ipod, so I don't know.).
3. The app works... according to many, the Seagate software was extremely buggy., and the only way to make it usable was to hack it (see hackseagatesatellite.com). Don't know about Transcends software.
4. Reviews online were overall better for the Wi-Drive
My initial impressions:
Before going into the pros and cons, let me just say that, according to my testing, the wi-drive works the best with Dice Player (I have the free version with ads). In Jelly Bean, video would stutter in the default media player and even MX Player. In ICS (tested on a GNex with CM9) and Gingerbread (tested with a rooted G2), those players may have worked okay, but would bring the video up slower than Dice. Overall, Dice worked the best.... and the only player I found that worked on the N7.
PROS:
1. I love how portable and light it is.
2. Easy for folks to connect. Have them connect to the wi-drive's SSID... then they either go into the android/ios app or put 192.168.200.254 in their fav browser, and they are connected.
3. 3 devices can play content smoothly without hiccups
4. It's possible to connect to both the wi-drive and your own wi-fi network in order to surf the night while connected to your drive.
5. Contrary to what some people may think, it is possible to charge and stream your media (just turn the drive on before charging)
6. The app works well (though it force closes sometimes... usually when disconnected from the wi-drive network).
7. The security features are nice... you can hide your ssid and put some type of encryption (WEP, WPA, WPA2, or mixed).
8. It has a pretty nice range. I used it about 18 ft. away with a wall between me and the wi-drive; it showed about 2 wifi bars on the N7... and the video played perfectly. Of course, success may differ due to many different factors that affect wi-fi.
9. You can transfer media from your device to the wi-drive and vice versa (and delete media) through the app. Haven't tried it through a browser. IOS doesn't have that feature which is weird but doesn't concern me since I don't have an IOS device.
10. Battery Life: I haven't tested it, but those that have said that it lasted over 4 hours, which is comparable to Seagate's drive. Being able to watch a couple of movies on a single charge is pretty nice and is enough for me... and, as mentioned above, you can charge and stream as well.
CONS:
1. It gets HOT... extremely hot when streaming. Leaving it out in the open is definitely recommended... for one, so it doesn't burn you while it's in your pocket (exaggerating a bit, but just a bit), and also to keep your drive as cool as possible.
2. The storage size may not be enough for some (which may be a con for them), but I think choosing an SSD over an HDD is worth it.
3. It takes about 2 min and 15 sec from powering on the drive (1 min 30 sec from connecting to the wi-drive) to be able to see content from the app or the browser. Not super-long... and it may be fast for an accessory like this, but I figured I'd just put it on the con side just in case.
4. There's no way to change the wi-drive's IP address (source: Kingston Wi-Drive FAQ)
5. 3 connected devices may be a con to some...and all connected devices seem to have read/write access to your media (haven't officially tested this, but I did see the copy/delete options on a friend's device).
That's all I can think of right now. Will update if I can think of anything else.
RECOMMENDED? Yes!!
I really enjoy this accessory. I love that I can take it around and access the media on all of my devices... essentially extending the memory not only on my N7, but on all of the devices. I can save storage on my devices for apps and other things and put all media on the wi-drive. I think this is a no-brainer for 8gb N7 owners... but even 16gb N7's could use some extra storage.
Feel free to chime in if you have the wi-drive and let me know if I missed something.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium and ZAGGkeys Flex BT keyboard... I'll write a post about this one next.
There /is/ a way to play files directly from a usb drive. Root, install stickmount, and enjoy.
Thanks for the reply.
I initially rooted my N7 hoping that stickmount would allow me to watch movies directly from the otg cable and USB drive... but it wasn't possible at that time. According to one of the threads on xda, it may be hardware (or USB drive specific). For me and my Transcend 32gb USB drive, I was only able to copy/paste between the USB drive and the N7. But I will update my post. Thanks again!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Thanks for the review, wasn't aware of this one. I use a 500GB Seagate GoFlex Satellite for much the same thing. I think the Seagate probably offers better value for money than Kingston's one here.
Thanks for the review. While I think the wi-drive is a useful bit of tech, it's a unitasker (NAS, essentially) which is also a con. It's one more thing to carry around.
Folks who already carry around an Android phone can potentially look to it in order to provide network access as well as storage without the limitations of the wi-drive. The main limitation will still be the amount of storage for some, though SD cards are getting up there!
Thanks for the review, I was thinking about getting one of these.
File Formats
I am interesting in getting this, however many of the reviews suggest that the file formats that can be streamed are quite limited. If it is acting like a USB flash drive, then I do not see how. It sounds like the software app limits its use?
I can currently play HD WTV file from a USB flash drive plugged into my Droid DNA (via an OTG adaptor), however using this method I cannot use the USB port to charge and I have wires sticking out of the phone.
If I get this Kingston WiDrive, would I be able to fill it with WTV files (Windows 7 MC recorded TV files) and play them with MX Player?

Ravpower RP-WD01 Wireless WiFi-Disk Review

Recently purchased the Ravpower RP-WD01 Wireless WiFi-Disk. It is probably the best investment I have made for ALL my mobile devices. I was on the fence about what wireless wifi storage to get Seagate, Kingston Wi-drive, Airstash and lots more but decided on the ravpower. Main reason was that it had a SD card slot and USB port to connect a multitude of different storage devices. And lets be honest, how many SD cards, microsd cards, portable hard drives and usb flash drives do we have laying around? There is soooo much potential with this product and some very nice surprises that I found out that makes this wifi disk a MUST have for all the tech geeks in us.
Bonus, it doubles up as external battery pack. 3,000mah may not be a lot but it does come in handy in those critical must have a charge situations.
Specs:
Wireless wi-fi storage and external battery pack 3000mah
SD card slot
USB slot
The size of the wifi disk is about the size of a portable hard drive. Slightly bigger than my S3; look at attached picture for reference.
To connect to the device you must make a wifi connection to it. It is named "WiFiSD-158E" and the password is "11111111". That is 8 ones BTW.
Performance:
I was able to pick up a wide array of storage media. SD card, microsd in a sd card adapter, Flash drives ranging from 4gb to 32gb with many different brands. It was able to power a Seagate portable hard drive no problem while a SD card was also in the sd card slot.
Many different devices were used to connect to the wifi disk: Nexus 7, Nexus 10, Ipad 4, Acer laptop, Coby Cryos android tablet, galaxy S3, Iphone 5 and a t-mobile S2.
It says that up to 5 devices can be connected to it.
I was able to play all sorts of video files from it, divx/xvid, avi, mp4, mkv, mov.....720p,1080p. It handled it like a champ.
I connected 5 devices and tried to stream a divx file all at the same time. It worked flawlessly, no stutters, no audio drops.
Now I dunno about HD 720p or 1080p files with 5 devices trying to stream from it. Will try more tests later.
You can access your connected storage via 3 different ways:
Now, you can use the recommended mobile apps mobile fun (android) and airstor (IOS) to connect to the device to see your connected storage options. They are nice clean simple apps. Reminds me of an "ES Explorer" type file explorer. Pretty fast, smooth and it simply just works. The one thing the APP is a must for is to make it a wifi hotspot. What that means is that you can configure it to connect to your regular home internet router so that when your device is connected to it; you can still have internet access. Basically it acts like a wireless bridge for your router. Once configured you don't have to use the apps ever again.
You can even use your browser to go to "10.10.10.254" and connect via a web interface. The default username is "admin" and there is no password. You can configure it to have a password; which I did via a wizard tutorial. This is nice since you can connect your laptop to it and access the connected storage.
The last option was a little thing I figured out and was pleasantly surprised! The wifi disk can be accessed via ANY file explorer app that can make SAMBA/SMB connections! File explorers such as "ES Explorer" and "Solid Explorer" have this ability. I personally recommend solid explorer (more on that in a bit).
You just have to set it up (please see attached picture for reference).
For solid explorer press the "jump" button, then "Network" and then "SMB/CIFS" button. Jump>Network>SMB/CIFS
Now press the plus sign button at the top right. It will cause a popup that you will need to fill in the appropriate info.
Display name: can be left blank
Computer name or ip address: enter 10.10.10.254
Authentication method: can set as "Log in as guess" if you did not use the web interface to make a pass word. If you did make a password set it as "store encrypted password"
Username: admin
password: whatever password you made via the web interface
Now you should be able use the file explorer to navigate the connected storage options:
SDCARD-Volume1 = SD card slot
USBDisk-Volume1 = USB port connected storage
Now you don't need an extra app to use the wifi disk. Use the file explorer you love and know!
Solid Explorer is my reccomendation because it has the two pane option when in landscape mode. With the two panel mode, you can navigate to the "SD card" with pane 1 and then navigate to the "usb port" with pane 2. This will allow you to transfer files between the "sd card" and the "usb port" storage seemlessly and easily! There was a step by step guide on amazon how to transfer files between two attached storage options on the wifi disk, but this makes it sooooo much easier!
Build Quality: Seems solid, not too flimsy but quite light. Nice colored LED's that aren't too bright.
Gripes about it:
Only comes in white; no black option. It sticks out like a sore thumb next to all my other devices. The external battery pack I bought before Xmas had a white generic apple charger which didn't go with the black external battery pack I bought.
Does not come with a wall charger; but will use any usb charger.
I do not work for RAVpower but was really impressed with their external battery pack for Xmas. Was even contacted by them after the new year to personally ask how the product was working out for me. That was a pleasant surprise. So that pushed my try the wifi disk instead of bigger name alternatives.
Thanks for the great review. Does the wifi drive offer some kind of pass through so one can access the Internet while using the drive?
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
mpmilestogo said:
Thanks for the great review. Does the wifi drive offer some kind of pass through so one can access the Internet while using the drive?
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. It's in the part of using the mobile app. It basically acts a wireless bridge or a hot spot. The wifi disk will connect to your router (after you configure it) and will pass through Internet to your device.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
What if you tether to your phone? Curious as to how that would work.
dh350nwo said:
What if you tether to your phone? Curious as to how that would work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
This looks really good have you been able to confirm the 5 hourd of battery life?
Sent from my SGH-I777 using xda premium
Jadefalkon said:
This looks really good have you been able to confirm the 5 hourd of battery life?
Sent from my SGH-I777 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not yet. I'm running a lot of tests like. How long it can last with various media storage connected; w/ hot spot/bridge mode on and off. How far you can be away from it but still stay connected.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
Okay, here's a question.
Can the standard download path be redirected to the WiFi device by an app, etc? Normal OTG support one can save to a flash drive.
I don't think so... It's not a standard path. It's a wireless connection. Kind of like a media server.... You can save to it but like all media servers not all apps have the ability to make a connection to the wifi disk
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Great review. I am charging mine for the first time, does the blinking green light ever change color or stop flashing when done charging? The user guide is not at all clear on this.
Edit: The blinking green light which indicates charging eventually just turned off completely. I assume this means charging is complete. Great device with lots of useful options built in, but they could have spent a little more time developing a better set of instructions.
krash183 said:
I don't think so... It's not a standard path. It's a wireless connection. Kind of like a media server.... You can save to it but like all media servers not all apps have the ability to make a connection to the wifi disk
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, it would be same as trying to save a download to your PC with WiFi, it doesn't exsist as a filepath option, only the device or what's physically attached to it(OTG).
---------- Post added at 09:07 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:55 AM ----------
Ken401 said:
Great review. I am charging mine for the first time, does the blinking green light ever change color or stop flashing when done charging? The user guide is not at all clear on this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If like other device chargers I have, lights blink while charging and stop when complete. Thinking about ordering one of these!
EDIT: Downloaded the manual. Is states a slow flashing green light is off or shutting down. Get this, both steady red and steady green is battery >30%! Can't be both. Not too good of a manual.
I really like this
I got mine in yesterday. I had to do a firmware update, but it's working with our Stealth Trio, Kindle Fires (running JellyBean) and our iPad 2. For some reason Moboplayer wouldn't work on the Kindle's but BSplayer Lite worked fine. Have tested watching 3 movies at the same time w/out issue.
wptski said:
If like other device chargers I have, lights blink while charging and stop when complete. Thinking about ordering one of these!
EDIT: Downloaded the manual. Is states a slow flashing green light is off or shutting down. Get this, both steady red and steady green is battery >30%! Can't be both. Not too good of a manual.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed that contradiction also. I can tell you only the green was on and I assume it had more than a 30% charge. I am thinking the red light will come on when LESS than 30% of the charge is left, but I have not run it down that far to know if this is correct. The instructions read the same way in both the quick manual and the full one. Nice device though!
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Ken401 said:
I noticed that contradiction also. I can tell you only the green was on and I assume it had more than a 30% charge. I am thinking the red light will come on when LESS than 30% of the charge is left, but I have not run it down that far to know if this is correct. The instructions read the same way in both the quick manual and the full one. Nice device though!
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I emailed them asking about the manual mistake. Later I ordered one also
---------- Post added at 09:04 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:03 PM ----------
Pattond said:
I got mine in yesterday. I had to do a firmware update, but it's working with our Stealth Trio, Kindle Fires (running JellyBean) and our iPad 2. For some reason Moboplayer wouldn't work on the Kindle's but BSplayer Lite worked fine. Have tested watching 3 movies at the same time w/out issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How'd you know it needed an update? How big were the movies?
Pattond said:
I got mine in yesterday. I had to do a firmware update, but it's working with our Stealth Trio, Kindle Fires (running JellyBean) and our iPad 2. For some reason Moboplayer wouldn't work on the Kindle's but BSplayer Lite worked fine. Have tested watching 3 movies at the same time w/out issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you download the firmware.?
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
I don't have enough posts to post external links. Go to the RavPower website and look for downloads. The firmware update us under Android. Though I updated it using my PC and the pc app
---------- Post added at 12:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:17 AM ----------
wptski said:
I emailed them asking about the manual mistake. Later I ordered one also
---------- Post added at 09:04 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:03 PM ----------
How'd you know it needed an update? How big were the movies?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I connected with the new iPad AirStor software it said I should update firmware. I didn't get the message from the Android apps.
The movies were 700-1000 MB DVD rips. Each device was playing different movies concurrently.
Btw, just connected it from Xbmc using 10.10.10.254 for the path. Bypasses the app. Note username is admin (all lowercase) and password is blank unless you change them in the firmware settings
krash183 said:
Where did you download the firmware.?
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a link to the page with the firmware update. Look for the file under Tablet & Smartphone software. http://www.ravpower.com/downloads#RP-WD01 I unzipped the file and transferred it to a USB drive and then attached the USB drive to the device and ran the update using the web interface at 10.10.10.254 while my tablet was tethered to it.
Ken401 said:
Here is a link to the page with the firmware update. Look for the file under Tablet & Smartphone software. http://www.ravpower.com/downloads#RP-WD01 I unzipped the file and transferred it to a USB drive and then attached the USB drive to the device and ran the update using the web interface at 10.10.10.254 while my tablet was tethered to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see updates and their names appear to be for two apps not firmware. Am I missing something?
wptski said:
I see updates and their names appear to be for two apps not firmware. Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The one that says firmware update for AirStor app is the right one.
Pattond said:
The one that says firmware update for AirStor app is the right one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I found it already. I love the folder name after unzipping.

Ravpower RP-WD01 Wireless WiFi-Disk Review

http://www.amazon.com/RAVPower%C2%AE-RP-WD01-Wireless-WiFi-Disk-Li-Polymer/dp/B00AQUMZRA/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1362010339&sr=8-14&keywords=ravpower
Recently purchased the Ravpower RP-WD01 Wireless WiFi-Disk. It is probably the best investment I have made for ALL my mobile devices. I was on the fence about what wireless wifi storage to get Seagate, Kingston Wi-drive, Airstash and lots more but decided on the ravpower. Main reason was that it had a SD card slot and USB port to connect a multitude of different storage devices. And lets be honest, how many SD cards, microsd cards, portable hard drives and usb flash drives do we have laying around? There is soooo much potential with this product and some very nice surprises that I found out that makes this wifi disk a MUST have for all the tech geeks in us.
Bonus, it doubles up as external battery pack. 3,000mah may not be a lot but it does come in handy in those critical must have a charge situations.
Specs:
Wireless wi-fi storage and external battery pack 3000mah
SD card slot
USB slot
The size of the wifi disk is about the size of a portable hard drive. Slightly bigger than my S3; look at attached picture for reference.
To connect to the device you must make a wifi connection to it. It is named "WiFiSD-158E" and the password is "11111111". That is 8 ones BTW.
Performance:
I was able to pick up a wide array of storage media. SD card, microsd in a sd card adapter, Flash drives ranging from 4gb to 32gb with many different brands. It was able to power a Seagate portable hard drive no problem while a SD card was also in the sd card slot.
Many different devices were used to connect to the wifi disk: Nexus 7, Nexus 10, Ipad 4, Acer laptop, Coby Cryos android tablet, galaxy S3, Iphone 5 and a t-mobile S2.
It says that up to 5 devices can be connected to it.
I was able to play all sorts of video files from it, divx/xvid, avi, mp4, mkv, mov.....720p,1080p. It handled it like a champ.
I connected 5 devices and tried to stream a divx file all at the same time. It worked flawlessly, no stutters, no audio drops.
Now I dunno about HD 720p or 1080p files with 5 devices trying to stream from it. Will try more tests later.
You can access your connected storage via 3 different ways:
Now, you can use the recommended mobile apps mobile fun (android) and airstor (IOS) to connect to the device to see your connected storage options. They are nice clean simple apps. Reminds me of an "ES Explorer" type file explorer. Pretty fast, smooth and it simply just works. The one thing the APP is a must for is to make it a wifi hotspot. What that means is that you can configure it to connect to your regular home internet router so that when your device is connected to it; you can still have internet access. Basically it acts like a wireless bridge for your router. Once configured you don't have to use the apps ever again.
You can even use your browser to go to "10.10.10.254" and connect via a web interface. The default username is "admin" and there is no password. You can configure it to have a password; which I did via a wizard tutorial. This is nice since you can connect your laptop to it and access the connected storage.
The last option was a little thing I figured out and was pleasantly surprised! The wifi disk can be accessed via ANY file explorer app that can make SAMBA/SMB connections! File explorers such as "ES Explorer" and "Solid Explorer" have this ability. I personally recommend solid explorer (more on that in a bit).
You just have to set it up (please see attached picture for reference).
For solid explorer press the "jump" button, then "Network" and then "SMB/CIFS" button. Jump>Network>SMB/CIFS
Now press the plus sign button at the top right. It will cause a popup that you will need to fill in the appropriate info.
Display name: can be left blank
Computer name or ip address: enter 10.10.10.254
Authentication method: can set as "Log in as guess" if you did not use the web interface to make a pass word. If you did make a password set it as "store encrypted password"
Username: admin
password: whatever password you made via the web interface
Now you should be able use the file explorer to navigate the connected storage options:
SDCARD-Volume1 = SD card slot
USBDisk-Volume1 = USB port connected storage
Now you don't need an extra app to use the wifi disk. Use the file explorer you love and know!
Solid Explorer is my reccomendation because it has the two pane option when in landscape mode. With the two panel mode, you can navigate to the "SD card" with pane 1 and then navigate to the "usb port" with pane 2. This will allow you to transfer files between the "sd card" and the "usb port" storage seemlessly and easily! There was a step by step guide on amazon how to transfer files between two attached storage options on the wifi disk, but this makes it sooooo much easier!
Build Quality: Seems solid, not too flimsy but quite light. Nice colored LED's that aren't too bright.
Gripes about it:
Only comes in white; no black option. It sticks out like a sore thumb next to all my other devices. The external battery pack I bought before Xmas had a white generic apple charger which didn't go with the black external battery pack I bought.
Does not come with a wall charger; but will use any usb charger.
I do not work for RAVpower but was really impressed with their external battery pack for Xmas. Was even contacted by them after the new year to personally ask how the product was working out for me. That was a pleasant surprise. So that pushed my try the wifi disk instead of bigger name alternatives.
Thanks, nice review!
Nice detailed review I always had an interest in one of these but was never to sure about it because I never heard of any first hand experiences.
A couple of questions I have though is, you said it has an external battery built into it. But I would assume that the charge goes down while you do a wifi connect via other devices? Or that is just a separate feature all together that is offered.
Another question I have is, (and maybe I missed it in the post but) does the WiFi disk have it's own internal storage or is this just like a hub that you can stick storage devices into that lets you broadcast a signal for you to connect too.
jonnyg1097 said:
Nice detailed review I always had an interest in one of these but was never to sure about it because I never heard of any first hand experiences.
A couple of questions I have though is, you said it has an external battery built into it. But I would assume that the charge goes down while you do a wifi connect via other devices? Or that is just a separate feature all together that is offered.
Another question I have is, (and maybe I missed it in the post but) does the WiFi disk have it's own internal storage or is this just like a hub that you can stick storage devices into that lets you broadcast a signal for you to connect too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The external battery is just a feature. The usb port to connect flash drives can just be used to charger a phone or tablet
The wifi disk has no storage itself. You must connect a peripheral to it for it to have storage
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
Does the internal battery allow you to just turn it on? Or is that other battery in the pictures that's supplying the power?
The white unit is the wifi disk. The wifi disk is a wireless storage and an external battery pack. The wireless disk has a built in battery to power the unit on and to be an external battery pack. The black unit is a separate battery pack i bought before Christmas.... It does not come with the wifi disk.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Can you use this while in CWM? As in being able to see the files on the different drives?
jonnyg1097 said:
Can you use this while in CWM? As in being able to see the files on the different drives?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about being able to see files via in a custom recovery. I don't think custom recoveries have the ability to connect via a samba connection to see files. I could be wrong so don't hold me to that statement
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
Nice review! I actually posted a positive review too last week. Glad I'm not the only one who is willing to venture out into unknown name branded items. This thing is really a great product. I didn't think too much of it until i read your review, but I agree with you that wish this came in black instead of white and light blue (kind of an odd color combo too).
Anyone know of any UK stockists? Nothing obvious on Google.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
andy1120 said:
Anyone know of any UK stockists? Nothing obvious on Google.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI - It is on sale at Newegg.com for $40 from a third party. I think a number of similar units will come on the market shortly. However, I picked up one of these.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA1HD0HM8076
PS If you need warranty service, newegg is insisting on having the original box.
PPS Ebay has them for $60. I assume that you can order one from the UK.
Just ordered one of these. I'm on the road for days at a time and I need a way to connect 2 tablets and @ times 2 lap tops at a time to an external hard drive. Bit I have question (all be it a dumb one). Can I use one of those USB to ethernet dongels with this unit?
Grumpymann said:
Just ordered one of these. I'm on the road for days at a time and I need a way to connect 2 tablets and @ times 2 lap tops at a time to an external hard drive. Bit I have question (all be it a dumb one). Can I use one of those USB to ethernet dongels with this unit?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not for sure about that but I would lean towards no
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
Decided to get one from the Newegg sale and it arrived today. Does everything mentioned in the OP well. I only had 1 issue and updating to the latest firmware didn't help. Although both the wizard and the manual network settings allow you to define channel and connection type (b, g, n) the changes don't stick. It insists on being on channel 11 which is the channel my home wifi network uses Less importantly it also won't do only n connections but insists on all 3.
Otherwise it's a great performer.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2
bsoplinger said:
Decided to get one from the Newegg sale and it arrived today. Does everything mentioned in the OP well. I only had 1 issue and updating to the latest firmware didn't help. Although both the wizard and the manual network settings allow you to define channel and connection type (b, g, n) the changes don't stick. It insists on being on channel 11 which is the channel my home wifi network uses Less importantly it also won't do only n connections but insists on all 3.
Otherwise it's a great performer.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try setting it via the Web manager?
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk HD
The wizard and manual settings are only available via the Web interface. The app (either of them, they seem the same to me) only has the ability to set password and not much more.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
good
Interesting product.
I have never thought of such needs until I come to this post. Now I have ordered on from Amzon and waiting to try it out.
Thanks for the review. It is great to know what to expect from this new device. :good:
l have had mine for about a week, and I have to say I LOVE THIS THING!!! I!m on the road for days at a time, the hotel internet sucks. I would have to transfer info from one tablet or laptop to another with an SD card. But with this I can keep all meildia on one harddrive and access it from any appliance I have with me. And it have extended my access to the.internet by as much as 10 to 12 feet. In some of the rooms. the connection is great by the dathroom but non existent anywhere else in the room. but with this I can access it anywhere in the room. The adlity to download AND upload on a nexus 7is just what I need.
My thanks to.the OP!
AW: Ravpower RP-WD01 Wireless WiFi-Disk Review
I would immediately buy one if it could host a 2.5" or 1.8" internal disk. Does anybody know about such a device? Preferably with an SD card slot and USB? Thx.
Picked one up based on everyone's reviews. Hopefully it will come in handy during my upcoming deployment. Have you all tried sharing a WiFi connection with it? How's the range?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

Can I control Chromecast with my phone without a wifi router?

Can I control Chromecast with my phone without a wifi router? I would like to be able to use just a tv, chromecast, and my phone to stream from my phone. Does anyone know if this is possible or if it will be? I tried downloading a rented movie from Google movie and turn the router off at my house. I tried to stream, but it failed for two reasons. Google movies won't let you stream downloaded movies and Chromecast won't work without my router on. Did I do something wrong here or am I missing something? I would prefer to be able to rely on my phone's data and downloaded files. Doesn't anyone think this would be possible with Chromecast? I guess I'm ultimately looking for portability without the internet.
choosetoride said:
Can I control Chromcast with my phone without a wifi router? I would like to be able to use just a tv, chromecast, and my phone to stream from my phone. Does anyone know if this is possible or if it will be? I tried downloading a rented movie from Google movie and turn the router off at my house. I tried to stream, but it failed for two reasons. Google movies won't let you stream downloaded movies and Chromecast won't work without my router on. Did I do something wrong here or am I missing something? I would prefer to be able to rely on my phone's data and downloaded files. Doesn't anyone think this would be possible with Chromecast? I guess I'm ultimately looking for portability without the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure your phone/tablet/laptop need to be on the same subnet as the device so it can be found to cast to, hence the need to have everything on the same wifi router.
I think that you can tether it to your phone. You select which wi-fi network the Chromecast joins using the Chromecast app, so no reason that you couldn't enter your phone's wi-fi network.
I think the salient point from the above answers is that Chromecast seems to need an Internet connection for some things (like youtube). For Web pages the Windows chrome browser sends the content to Chromecast but other times (YouTube) it's pulling content itself from the Internet.
Once Koush's app is out hopefully you'll be able to stream more content right to your phone, so a peer to peer network might work better
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using xda premium
Jason_V said:
I think that you can tether it to your phone. You select which wi-fi network the Chromecast joins using the Chromecast app, so no reason that you couldn't enter your phone's wi-fi network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could, but remember that Casting from your phone, computer, etc removes that device from being in the middle, and the Chromecast does the heavy lifting of grabbing the requested stream from the internet and playing it on-screen. Your phone's WiFi may be sufficient, but remember you're going to be pulling HD data over the cellular connection, and that'll probably be jerky and buffer a lot. It was neat to cast a netflix item from my phone and turn my phone OFF while it was still playing (and didn't skip a beat) to verify it wasn't using my phone for anything.
FractalSphere said:
You could, but remember that Casting from your phone, computer, etc removes that device from being in the middle, and the Chromecast does the heavy lifting of grabbing the requested stream from the internet and playing it on-screen. Your phone's WiFi may be sufficient, but remember you're going to be pulling HD data over the cellular connection, and that'll probably be jerky and buffer a lot. It was neat to cast a netflix item from my phone and turn my phone OFF while it was still playing (and didn't skip a beat) to verify it wasn't using my phone for anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. The handoff is amazing. I just would like the option for when I'm somewhere with no internet. In my opinion, this could be a huge deal breaker for a lot of people. Why make it so small, if it's not meant to be taken everywhere? But, who knows. From my perspective, it goes right back to the DRM issue with Xbox. I buy or rent all of the media I watch, but forcing me to be online anytime I want to view it is just controlling. It removes value.
choosetoride said:
Good point. The handoff is amazing. I just would like the option for when I'm somewhere with no internet. In my opinion, this could be a huge deal breaker for a lot of people. Why make it so small, if it's not meant to be taken everywhere? But, who knows. From my perspective, it goes right back to the DRM issue with Xbox. I buy or rent all of the media I watch, but forcing me to be online anytime I want to view it is just controlling. It removes value.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would tether or use one of those mobile hotspots (I don't have one, but might if I traveled extensively) and stream that way at a hotel or even someone elses house.
Ohh, which begs the question, can the Chromecast store more than one Wifi configuration? I don't think the software can do that at the moment.. Would be VERY convenient to travel to known locations back and forth.
As for direct streaming of local video, i was able to stream MP4 files no problem using a Chrome browser tab. The computer doing the rendering needs to be a higher-end PC, though - right now I have a older 'media PC' set up that my Xbox plays DLNA from and it's just a glorified storage device, it didn't want to render those videos well at all. So if you have a decent laptop, and get Connectify (free PC software that makes your laptop a hotspot) you can stream to the Chromecast directly while out at a remote location.
I believe the ad-hoc wireless functionality was only meant to facilitate initial setup, not to be a content streaming solution.
Plus, I doubt your phone would be able to handle the computing stress required to cast content directly to the Chromecast.
Roberek said:
I believe the ad-hoc wireless functionality was only meant to facilitate initial setup, not to be a content streaming solution.
Plus, I doubt your phone would be able to handle the computing stress required to cast content directly to the Chromecast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I stream HD Netflix from my phone's hotspot, perfect. I play my xbox online with parties using my hotpsot...perfect.
My down speeds are better than most peoples ISP down speeds so I don't see this being an issue.
The Xbox Smartglass app works from my phone while my phone is giving my Xbox internet so I don't see why the Chromecast wouldn't be able to work either.
I emailed Google about this because I honestly don't see the problem.
iTreezy said:
I stream HD Netflix from my phone's hotspot, perfect. I play my xbox online with parties using my hotpsot...perfect.
My down speeds are better than most peoples ISP down speeds so I don't see this being an issue.
The Xbox Smartglass app works from my phone while my phone is giving my Xbox internet so I don't see why the Chromecast wouldn't be able to work either.
I emailed Google about this because I honestly don't see the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
let me know if you get a reply because i want to do the same thing but apparently this is the reason why it doesn't work
http://forums.androidcentral.com/go...android-phone-hotspot-ap-isolation-issue.html
seems like if you can disable ap isolation then it would fix it but i'm not sure how you'd do that
Jason_V said:
I think that you can tether it to your phone. You select which wi-fi network the Chromecast joins using the Chromecast app, so no reason that you couldn't enter your phone's wi-fi network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried doing this on my Galaxy Note II (Sprint) using WiFi tether. I was able to get it an IP and connect to the network, but it wasn't pushing the DNS info (ie wasn't getting an internet connection). Unfortunately, WiFi tether can be limited in the it's settings and CC has only a few.
Unfortunately, from what I've seen, you are unable to store multiple networks on the CC. I don't believe it was designed for that much portability. I happen to have a laptop with me and was able to do the setup. Since I wasn't able to get an internet connect, I wasn't able to test if I could cast from the GN2. My expectation is most likely not. But I had a tablet with me too, and would have tested it with that.
As for how it would preform, I assume for Netflix and application with CC extension built in, no problem. Trying to cast a Chrome tab, that could be iffy since it would depend on well WiFi tether can handle the that much traffic and the PC.
I haven't fiddled with it since then. But it's definitely possible with some tweaks.
colonelcack said:
let me know if you get a reply because i want to do the same thing but apparently this is the reason why it doesn't work
http://forums.androidcentral.com/go...android-phone-hotspot-ap-isolation-issue.html
seems like if you can disable ap isolation then it would fix it but i'm not sure how you'd do that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think there is a way to disable AP isolation. I'm no network wiz or anything but I rally think it would be an easy update on their side to grant access to using our phones hot spot.
I also noticed that the Chromecast itself generates its own hotspot...I'm assuming to let other devices connect to it and cast to it.
I'm not mad that it doesn't work ($35 isn't a wallet breaker) but I am mad that I jumped the gun and used my 3 months free promo for Netflix =(
Well, here it is guys
Hello Troy,
Thank you for contacting Google Play! It was a pleasure getting to speak with you today. Unfortunately you will need an ISP to hook up your chromecast it will not work off of a hotspot connection.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reply directly to this email. Also, you can visit our help center at:
https://support.google.com/chromecast/
Regards,
Tracy
The Google Play Support Team!
On 08/10/13 00:10:27 ********** wrote:
first_name_req: Troy
last_name_req: Wisniewski
email_req: **********
Chromekey_serial:
description_req: I don't have an ISP at my residence, I use my Galaxy Nexus
hotspot for everything which always works out well. I was hoping that the
Chromecast would work connected to my hotpot but it seems to have issues.
People have stated that it won't work because your phone has to be
connected to wifi as well but my rebuttal to this is that
Microsoft's "SmartGlass" app is used to control my Xbox, through wifi. I
use my hotspot to give internet access to my Xbox and my phone can control
it even though it is technically not on a wifi network, instead it is
providing the wifi. To me it seems this is the same concept and should work
with a bit of back end support on your end. I would appreciate an email
back stating whether this is going to be possible or not. If it isn't
possible I understand. For $35 ($15 with the Netflix promo) it's not
exactly killing me. The reason I don't have an ISP is because I would
rather not be raped (for lack of better words)
P.S. Google Fiber Metro Detroit please
static_subject_line: Chromecast technical question
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I guess the the next step is for everyone to quote this and spread the word throughout the other posts here at XDA and any other forums related to this topic.
iTreezy said:
I guess the the next step is for everyone to quote this and spread the word throughout the other posts here at XDA and any other forums related to this topic.
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bull****. they're just too lazy to do it. there has to be some hotspot app that has this feature or some kind of workaround that will be figured out eventually...this was the whole reason i bought the device, this would be the ultimate portable media center. i bet that kouch guy could do it...
colonelcack said:
bull****. they're just too lazy to do it. there has to be some hotspot app that has this feature or some kind of workaround that will be figured out eventually...this was the whole reason i bought the device, this would be the ultimate portable media center. i bet that kouch guy could do it...
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Listen.. I'm with you man. I meant spread the official word of google so we can move on to focusing on developers trying to help us out
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
iTreezy said:
Listen.. I'm with you man. I meant spread the official word of google so we can move on to focusing on developers trying to help us out
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
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lol i know man i wasn't saying bull**** to you just in general. i already linked to this to the other post on androidcentral....hopefully this helps spread the word.
Kinda late to the party here, but just FYI I have my CC tethered to my Sprint SGS4 using the native hotspot app. Did the set up using my N10, using the chromecast app.
Bump - Any new developments?
So, Ive been scouring the internet looking for some sort of simple, portable, wireless method to stream content from my Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 to a TV... with the most obvious thought of HDMI adapters and dongles. Obviously one of the leading search results and hype is "Chromecast" which led me here. I was hoping I could confirm the following and see if any progress has been made:
1. Can the Chromecast be used to stream content on a mobile device? Or is it still based strictly on app based media?
2. I doubt much progress has been made in this area, so I really doubt "screencasting" from a mobile device (tablet/phone) is possible, especially without internet connection.
3. Can Chromecast be supported by a portable wifi hotspot yet? or is it still strictly dependent on a ISP to router WiFi connection?
4. If Chromecast doesn't do it, then has any one found any devices that allows you to stream your tablet/phone to a tv wirelessly the same way that you can do if you have the MHL to HDMI cables?
varxtis said:
So, Ive been scouring the internet looking for some sort of simple, portable, wireless method to stream content from my Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 to a TV... with the most obvious thought of HDMI adapters and dongles. Obviously one of the leading search results and hype is "Chromecast" which led me here. I was hoping I could confirm the following and see if any progress has been made:
1. Can the Chromecast be used to stream content on a mobile device? Or is it still based strictly on app based media?
2. I doubt much progress has been made in this area, so I really doubt "screencasting" from a mobile device (tablet/phone) is possible, especially without internet connection.
3. Can Chromecast be supported by a portable wifi hotspot yet? or is it still strictly dependent on a ISP to router WiFi connection?
4. If Chromecast doesn't do it, then has any one found any devices that allows you to stream your tablet/phone to a tv wirelessly the same way that you can do if you have the MHL to HDMI cables?
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Read the Stickies first.
3. As long as your hotspot does not isolates clients or the AP itself, does not block or mangle multicast, and has sufficient bitrate to get the Internet-based media you want, it should work.
4. Wireless HDMI transmitter/receiver, but those cost in the $150+ range for good reason - latency is the biggest enemy. That's why applying the same mechanism that desktop Chrome tab casting won't work. It'll overload the CPU of the phone/tablet with compression and it will still have lag.

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