Related
I admit. I bought this thing for the android tablet functions but it is, at heart, an ereader and I do occassionally read on it. The last book read button is always showing but the function is lost unless I launch the original nook home. Any way I can get the function back or make a home screen shortcut for it?
I will second this! I use my rooted nook to read a lot and would love to be able to use the last book read function!
Sent from my nook color using the XDA app.
This isn't a fix but for easy use I just created a shortcut to the B&N launcher using anycut. I just have it as my secondary home where the books and stuff I actually purchased are.
It only functions if you have B&N's launcher active.
After each reboot start, open the B&N home and open the book, then switch to your launcher of choice. The "open book" button will work after that on any launcher... (at least "launcher pro" by my experience and other launchers by "hearsay").
Jim
daveknights said:
This isn't a fix but for easy use I just created a shortcut to the B&N launcher using anycut. I just have it as my secondary home where the books and stuff I actually purchased are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you do this with Anycut? I tried to do it with the shortcut menu and the anycut app. Cannot create any shortcut. This is using zeam.
Yeah, you just have to open the B&N home once and if the Nook isn't restarted it'll work.
The easiest way without making a shortcut is to use softkeys and long press the home button and set a long press on the virtual home to take you to the B&N home. After you've opened go back to your launcher of choice and you're all set.
daveknights said:
This isn't a fix but for easy use I just created a shortcut to the B&N launcher using anycut. I just have it as my secondary home where the books and stuff I actually purchased are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heh, why would you do this? Just hit the big arrow button on the status bar, instant shortcut to all of the B&N stuff.
If you are not using the stock launcher, then just sideload the books onto your desktop of your replacement launcher. There are instructions on how to simply put books right on your desktop, for one touch book launching. They appear very similarly to the ones on the stock B&N desktop.
Definitely a decent workaround but I would prefer either the function returned or the icon removed. Right now, it's like your body's appendix. Just kinda... there.
During two 12 hour days of rooting and customizing two CNooks, I ran across a procedure for removing the stock Nook apps. Now I can't find it. I'm not sure if that included the main soft button, as well, but I'm giving one of these to my 75 year old Mom and I don't want her confused if she hits this button all the time.
Really appreciate any help here!!!
ClarkSt said:
During two 12 hour days of rooting and customizing two CNooks, I ran across a procedure for removing the stock Nook apps. Now I can't find it. I'm not sure if that included the main soft button, as well, but I'm giving one of these to my 75 year old Mom and I don't want her confused if she hits this button all the time.
Really appreciate any help here!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK there's no way to remove the nook shortcut menu in the status bar. So what is she using it for, never reading on it? If you removed the apps and she did launch the shortcuts I guess it'd just fail to load the app, as they seem to be static shortcuts to those apps.
I would think when we get a custom ROM the status bar will be at the developers digression, and maybe someone will figure out a way to update the framework jar to remove the shortcut. My wife likes the shortcut, as her NC is 50/50 reader/tablet.
I installed the Kindle app on the Home screen, which I prefer. The Nook eReader is still there in the app tray, but because I changed the screen res, it screws up some of the texts in the Store and what not. The reader is still fine, though. But with the larger icons and text, it is WAY better. I tricked it out with the Aquarium Live Wallpaper and added Dolphin browser, which supports pinch zoom. And an email client; WeatherBug Elite, a Battery widget, a clock widget, and a WiFi toggle widgit went on the Home screen, as well - and I'm using Zeam for a launcher. I removed all the icons except the app drawer - and also changed the Volume Down button to be a Back and the Up to be a Menu. No SoftKeys for me. BTW: I set the lcd res to 220 using LCDDensity - far better than the 250 someone mentioned on the forum. I still see the time and the notification balloon - albeit, a bit truncated, but it works. I run SetCPU, though not really sure I need to.
I use Quick Settings for Volume.
I'm missing a few things:
1) Love to find out how to do a screen capture.
2) Desperately want Flash.
3) Desperately want Bluetooth.
And, really want to noop the nook shortcut launcher soft key - or preferably the whole status bar. I don't need it, with all the widgets, but I'd be happy to have it as long as the shortcut launcher softkey was nullified.
I'm planning to get NC for my parents of the same age like your mom as well.
They would use it for email and web browsing while traveling.
I hope you will succeed and share
Cool - and of course I'll share! Fact is, it's not a deal-breaker by any means. I
'll just tell her to avoid hitting that menu button. And if she does, she just clicks on the screen or clicks the button again to get rid of it. I'm really more interested in Flash - which I'm sure will be in 2.2, whenever they release it for the CN - and BT. Which I really want for the new BT headphones I bought for my lost Archos 70.
post deleted. it repeated my last one.
Screen capture - hold down the large physical "n" button, and then very quickly press the volume down button. It will store the .png screenshot file in a directory called "Screenshots" in the system storage.
Now, if someone knows how to do video capture of the screen, please let us know.
KryptoNyte39 said:
Screen capture - hold down the large physical "n" button, and then very quickly press the volume down button. It will store the .png screenshot file in a directory called "Screenshots" in the system storage.
Now, if someone knows how to do video capture of the screen, please let us know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome... thanks for posting this. I previously download ShootMe unaware of this functionality.
I did it all from my Nookie...
I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
This is the best app for a rooted NSTG No need to fiddle with different launchers, it just works as an extension to the B&N homescreen. Thanks for the tip!
johnseeking said:
I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
johnseeking said:
I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pardon my ignorance, but how exactly do you 'fiddle with the options'? The app opens in fullscreen mode, and i can't find the way to get the status bar to show up, tried everything...
my nook simple touch rooted with nook manager, so relaunch is the shell(or whatever it's called) from which i run app drawer...
Thanks!
nnbveh said:
Pardon my ignorance, but how exactly do you 'fiddle with the options'? The app opens in fullscreen mode, and i can't find the way to get the status bar to show up, tried everything...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had this issue with another app and here is what I did:
Temporarily assign the "Menu" function to one of the hardware keys using NookTouchModManager (unless you have it set up that way already for other purposes--I keep a long-press on one button this way just in case).
When you launch your app you will now have a way to access menu functions even though it is running full-screen. In my case I was able to change the settings on my app so it would *not* run full-screen by default, but that is probably not what you want in this instance. After you have made your adjustments, you can change the hardware key back to its default, although I think keeping both a "Back" and "Menu" option around is not a bad idea.
VERY late reply...
I use an app called Button Savior which lets you add a set of software buttons which expand or collapse when you touch an assigned target point on your screen. (I have mine set to a long press in the lower left corner, and since I bought the pro version I can customize my target to be invisible.) That way I can always get to a menu button if I need one.
Don't have my NST with me, so I can't tall you what version I'm running, but I'm pretty sure it's the current version on Google Play.
I came across this old post and thought I'd look up the app to see what it was like. I've attached a copy below.
This is not actually a "launcher" despite what the thread title says. It is plain-and-simple an App Drawer. But as the OP said, it can provide almost a "stealth" modification of the NST. To me it seems ideal for the person who says "I only want to root so I can run app x--I don't want a lot of stuff on it."
There are a few hurdles to get to that point, so here is a brief outline of steps to get it working:
1. Root with NookManager (update it first if you're rooting FW 1.2.2)
2. Install the app along with a good file manager like ES File Explorer which will give you root access when you need it (ReLaunch can't).
3. Use Nook Touch Mod Manager to assign a button press (maybe a long-press?) to the MIUI app. You can use one of the hardware buttons or (less "stealth") one of the QuickNav buttons you don't use like Social, or Shop or Search.
4. Temporarily assign one of the hardware buttons to "Menu". This is needed because the MIUI app opens in full screen by default and you can't get at the settings without the Menu button.
5. Run the MIUI app and configure as you want (there is an option not to hide the status bar). Once you have the appearance you are after note that you can long-press on an app to (among other things) hide it from the drawer or even uninstall it. I suggest you uninstall ReLaunch.
6. Go back to Nook Touch Mod Manager and remove the temporary "Menu" button assignment.
And you're good! Your NST still looks and works like its old self but you're one button-press away from accessing any apps you may want to install. And you have a decent file manager
Edit:
I'm working on a batch script to provide a different launcher as one-click script.
Hope to be ready by tomorrow, will add a step by step solution as a manual way too, thanks to all those people that were involved in rooting and launcher replacement.
Old post:
I just got my new Fire today and messed around with adb for some houres.
This is what I found regarding the replacement of the fire launcher so far:
You can hide com.amazon.firelauncher using pm hide through adb shell.
This will prevent the system from starting the launcher.
I pushed Trebuchet using adb install.
After a reboot it asks me which app to use.
I can choose Trebuchet and it will be relaunched after a reboot too.
The only problem is that the fire launcher is hard-coded to home button, and that can only be changed with superuser permissions.
Edit: I found the following looking at a logcat with fire launcher being hidden:
ActivityManager does report this when pushing the home button:
I/ActivityManager( 451): START u0 {act=android.intent.action.MAIN cat=[android.intent.category.HOME] flg=0x10200000 cmp=com.amazon.firelauncher/.Launcher} from uid 1000 on display 0
So Amazon linked firelauncher to that intent.
There are two ways to start another launcher:
First: Change an APK so it calls the launcher it installs "com.amazon.firelauncher". That is a step that I can't do myself, and it is very likely not to work because we would have a conflict between the original and the fake process, as the original app is only hidden, but still known to be there.
Second: We need to find out where they stored the list of default intents that ActivityManager draws information from.
So if anybody knows anything about how that works, please help me.
Just wanted to share those steps with you, hopefully someone finds a solution for the hard-coded home button. Till then I'll just leave apps with back button to get back to Trebuchet
good work
I'm still doing some research on this and need your help guys.
Can anyone that did block the initial update run pm list packages com.amazon on his device and post the output here?
It seems like there is an application in the 5.0.1 build that does block all changes to the default activity setup concerning the launcher app.
I installed a second launcher on my Z1 compact and watched logcat as I hit the home button.
But the behavior is different from the one the fire shows, the fire instantly tries to run com.amazon.firelauncher, no matter how many launchers are installed.
So it seems like the registration as a launcher is somehow blocked and prevents ResolverActivity from showing.
Thanks to everyone
package:com.amazon.platform
package:com.amazon.photos
package:com.amazon.precog
package:com.amazon.dp.contacts
package:com.amazon.unifiedsharegoodreads
package:com.amazon.recess
package:com.amazon.platform.fdrw
package:com.amazon.whisperplay.contracts
package:com.amazon.venezia
package:com.amazon.webapp
package:com.amazon.dcp.contracts.library
package:com.amazon.device.sync
package:com.amazon.device.logmanager
package:com.amazon.firelauncher
package:com.amazon.alta.h2clientservice
package:com.amazon.socialplatform
package:com.amazon.dp.fbcontacts
package:com.amazon.h2settingsfortablet
package:com.amazon.calculator
package:com.amazon.cloud9.systembrowserprovider
package:com.amazon.kindle.otter.settings
package:com.amazon.dp.logger
package:com.amazon.ods.kindleconnect
package:com.amazon.accessorynotifier
package:com.amazon.sharingservice.android.client.proxy
package:com.amazon.weather
package:com.amazon.webview
package:com.amazon.android.marketplace
package:com.amazon.device.backup.sdk.internal.library
package:com.amazon.client.metrics.api
package:com.amazon.dcp
package:com.amazon.imp
package:com.amazon.mp3
package:com.amazon.unifiedsharesinaweibo
package:com.amazon.sync.service
package:com.amazon.fireinputdevices
package:com.amazon.csapp
package:com.amazon.logan
package:com.amazon.tahoe
package:com.amazon.tcomm
package:com.amazon.kindle.identityservice
package:com.amazon.kindle.personal_music
package:com.amazon.kindle.personal_video
package:com.amazon.identity.auth.device.authorization
package:com.amazon.kcp.tutorial
package:com.amazon.kindle.cms
package:com.amazon.kindleautomatictimezone
package:com.amazon.device.backup
package:com.amazon.geo.mapsv2.services
package:com.amazon.securitysyncclient
package:com.amazon.unifiedshare.actionchooser
package:com.amazon.whisperlink.activityview.android
package:com.amazon.device.messaging
package:com.amazon.digital.asset.ownership.app
package:com.amazon.devicecontrol
package:com.amazon.device.messaging.sdk.internal.library
package:com.amazon.providers
package:com.amazon.kindle.otter.oobe
package:com.amazon.photos.importer
package:com.amazon.geo.mapsv2
package:com.amazon.unifiedsharetwitter
package:com.amazon.tcomm.client
package:com.amazon.client.metrics
package:com.amazon.device.settings.sdk.internal.library
package:com.amazon.acos.providers.UnifiedSettingsProvider
package:com.amazon.firepowersettings
package:com.amazon.pm
package:com.amazon.wifilocker
package:com.amazon.dcp.contracts.framework.library
package:com.amazon.device.bluetoothdfu
package:com.amazon.whisperlink.core.android
package:com.amazon.kor.demo
package:com.amazon.device.messaging.sdk.library
package:com.amazon.ags.app
package:com.amazon.kindle.unifiedSearch
package:com.amazon.sync.provider.ipc
package:com.amazon.providers.contentsupport
package:com.amazon.platformsettings
package:com.amazon.device.crashmanager
package:com.amazon.application.compatibility.enforcer
package:com.amazon.kindle.rdmdeviceadmin
package:com.amazon.parentalcontrols
package:com.amazon.windowshop
package:com.amazon.avod
package:com.amazon.shpm
package:com.amazon.zico
package:com.amazon.communication.discovery
package:com.amazon.legalsettings
package:com.amazon.camera
package:com.amazon.device.settings
package:com.amazon.cloud9
package:com.amazon.device.sync.sdk.internal
package:com.amazon.unifiedsharefacebook
package:com.amazon.connectivitydiag
package:com.amazon.dynamicupdationservice
package:com.amazon.kindle.devicecontrols
package:com.amazon.kindle
package:com.amazon.application.compatibility.enforcer.sdk.library
ChrBeck said:
I just got my new Fire today and messed around with adb for some houres.
This is what I found regarding the replacement of the fire launcher so far:
You can hide com.amazon.firelauncher using pm hide through adb shell.
This will prevent the system from starting the launcher.
I pushed Trebuchet using adb install.
After a reboot it asks me which app to use.
I can choose Trebuchet and it will be relaunched after a reboot too.
The only problem is that the fire launcher is hard-coded to home button, and that can only be changed with superuser permissions.
Edit: I found the following looking at a logcat with fire launcher being hidden:
ActivityManager does report this when pushing the home button:
I/ActivityManager( 451): START u0 {act=android.intent.action.MAIN cat=[android.intent.category.HOME] flg=0x10200000 cmp=com.amazon.firelauncher/.Launcher} from uid 1000 on display 0
So Amazon linked firelauncher to that intent.
There are two ways to start another launcher:
First: Change an APK so it calls the launcher it installs "com.amazon.firelauncher". That is a step that I can't do myself, and it is very likely not to work because we would have a conflict between the original and the fake process, as the original app is only hidden, but still known to be there.
Second: We need to find out where they stored the list of default intents that ActivityManager draws information from.
So if anybody knows anything about how that works, please help me.
Just wanted to share those steps with you, hopefully someone finds a solution for the hard-coded home button. Till then I'll just leave apps with back button to get back to Trebuchet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Someone could try this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2760965 to change the application process name, and then install it over the Fire Launcher, it will update the file. If you ever want to go back, you can click "Uninstall Updates". Try this on Trebuchet and see if it works.
Cheksum
/system/priv-app/com.amazon.firelauncher/com.amazon.firelauncher.apk
It has a checksum, so not sure if an .apk renamed as com.amazon.firelauncher.apk and put back into the device would fail because of a checksum error?
Just tried and I get an error of [invalid apk file within my ADB shell]
Someone else might have better luck then me?
Haha I had the same idea some houres ago and tried to rename trebuchet to com.amazon.firelauncher using apktool.
But when trying to install it I get "Parsing error", maybe my signature is wrong or I made another mistake.
I'll add my apk so someone else can try signing and flashing it if anybody wants to.
Edit:
Just for your interest:
I compared the com.amazon app list posted here to mine: Exept for the apps that are hidden to prevent ota-update, both lists are identical.
So I still don't know what Amazon changed, but we can be sure that there is no additional app that prevents us from changing the launcher.
ChrBeck said:
Haha I had the same idea some houres ago and tried to rename trebuchet to com.amazon.firelauncher using apktool.
But when trying to install it I get "Parsing error", maybe my signature is wrong or I made another mistake.
I'll add my apk so someone else can try signing and flashing it if anybody wants to.
Edit:
Just for your interest:
I compared the com.amazon app list posted here to mine: Exept for the apps that are hidden to prevent ota-update, both lists are identical.
So I still don't know what Amazon changed, but we can be sure that there is no additional app that prevents us from changing the launcher.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I grabbed your apk and used keytool to generate my own cert and try installing the app, now adb install fails with the status below:
Code:
#This was run on OS X
#This generates the a key, after asking you several questions. Default passcode is "android"
keytool -genkey -v -keystore ~/.android/debug.keystore -alias trebuchet -keyalg RSA -keysize 2048 -validity 20000
#Sign the apk
jarsigner -verbose -keystore debug.keystore com.amazon.firelauncher.apk trebuchet
#install the package
hostname:user$ ./adb install com.amazon.firelauncher.apk
9433 KB/s (3427921 bytes in 0.354s)
pkg: /data/local/tmp/com.amazon.firelauncher.apk
Failure [INSTALL_FAILED_UPDATE_INCOMPATIBLE]
Update incompatible sounds great, it means that there is just one fuse we need to break.
I did not change the version info and permissions of trebuchet, that might already be the point.
I will extract firelauncher this evening, check for version, set trebuchet to a higher version and copy all the permissions firelauncher uses with those missing permissions copied from trebuchet (which should cause the installer to ask for granting only those additional ones)
As your certs seem to work, I'll just publish the unsigned apk and you could try signing and installing again if you want to.
Seems like we are getting close to a solution.
ChrBeck said:
Update incompatible sounds great, it means that there is just one fuse we need to break.
I did not change the version info and permissions of trebuchet, that might already be the point.
I will extract firelauncher this evening, check for version, set trebuchet to a higher version and copy all the permissions firelauncher uses with those missing permissions copied from trebuchet (which should cause the installer to ask for granting only those additional ones)
As your certs seem to work, I'll just publish the unsigned apk and you could try signing and installing again if you want to.
Seems like we are getting close to a solution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just used apktool to decompile your apk, which I then inserted updated version info into (apktool.yml stores this), and after resigning, installation failed for the same reason as above. It seems that the device is detecting that the cert that I'm using is not the one used to sign the original application and failing on that. I've seen this happening when doing development on my personal apps.
This might not work, though I would love if someone could prove me wrong.
In the meantime, I was considering using pm hide to hide the default launcher and use some sort of softkey solution with a link to trebuchet or nova. I'll look into it tomorrow after I get a bit of sleep.
Edit:
Just a cursory test with an app called "overlay" and nova launcher is proving to be quite adequate. I have an on-screen overlaid app shortcut to nova launcher at all times. I will have to create app filters to stop the overlay from going in front of games and videos, but this seems to do the trick for me at least. I'll upload the overlay config tomorrow morning, but it's simple enough to figure out. I currently have com.amazon.firelauncher hidden, and after rebooting it automatically opens nova launcher and the overlay pops in about 10 seconds later.
Edit 2:
Since I don't have 10 posts yet, I'm not allowed to post links to files. It should be pretty easy to figure out how to set up Overlays though. I made my application link to nova launcher almost completely transparent and in the bottom right corner of my screen, and it works well, though there is a small delay before it gets back to the launcher.
Now that I've got the play store, Google keyboard, and a decent launcher, this is shaping up to be a good purchase.
I am very interested in this thread, but I can't understand much of what @googlegot wrote.
"Just a cursory test with an app called "overlay" and nova launcher is proving to be quite adequate. I have an on-screen overlaid app shortcut to nova launcher at all times. I will have to create app filters to stop the overlay from going in front of games and videos, but this seems to do the trick for me at least. I'll upload the overlay config tomorrow morning, but it's simple enough to figure out. I currently have com.amazon.firelauncher hidden, and after rebooting it automatically opens nova launcher and the overlay pops in about 10 seconds later. "
Could you please elaborate on this?
zavorrax said:
I am very interested in this thread, but I can't understand much of what @googlegot wrote.
"Just a cursory test with an app called "overlay" and nova launcher is proving to be quite adequate. I have an on-screen overlaid app shortcut to nova launcher at all times. I will have to create app filters to stop the overlay from going in front of games and videos, but this seems to do the trick for me at least. I'll upload the overlay config tomorrow morning, but it's simple enough to figure out. I currently have com.amazon.firelauncher hidden, and after rebooting it automatically opens nova launcher and the overlay pops in about 10 seconds later. "
Could you please elaborate on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a text only guide as I am writing it on mobile, I'll flesh it out in a full post after work.
This guide assumes you have the play store installed, debug drivers and adb installed, and debugging mode enabled in developer settings.
1. Download "Overlays - Float Everywhere" from the Play store.
2. Download a launcher of your choosing (I chose Nova launcher)
3. In overlays, press the "+" button to create a new profile
4. Select "Always/Manual (Global)", then enter a name for your profile (I named mine "Nova". Make sure to set it to "Always On" using the toggle below the name on the right side of the screen above "advanced settings"
5. Press the save button in the top right corner of the screen.
6. Select "Add your first Overlay", then "Application Shortcut", then select your launcher (again, I used Nova). This will create an icon on screen, which you can drag around to where you want your new home button to be. It may appear off screen at first. If so, turn your tablet to landscape orientation to get it into view.
7. Drag the icon where you would like it to be in both landscape and portrait mode, then save the location by pressing the save button in the top right corner of the icon.
8. Save the overlay by pressing the save button in the middle of the set of three buttons in the top right corner of the screen.
9. Reboot your tablet. Once it has booted you'll notice an icon for your launcher is now overlaid on every screen at all times. This is your new "home" button.
10. Plug your tablet into your computer and run the following to disable the built in launcher:
Code:
adb shell
pm hide com.amazon.firelauncher
exit
(To undo this, change "pm hide" to "pm unhide")
11. The original home button on your tablet will now produce an error when pressed and your only available launcher will now be the one you've installed. You'll need to use the new overlaid button you created to as your home button.
does this affect you leaving full-screen apps ?
(IE: a game)
if hitting your home buttons gives an error
peace
Ricci
a1yet said:
does this affect you leaving full-screen apps ?
(IE: a game)
if hitting your home buttons gives an error
peace
Ricci
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is an overlay, it is on top of your full screen games and videos. Your home button is broken, but the overlaid application icon is your new home button for all intents and purposes. It is a button on top of everything on screen.
googlegot said:
It is a button on top of everything on screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hmm this is interesting
thanks for this, will look into it myself :victory:
googlegot said:
I just used apktool to decompile your apk, which I then inserted updated version info into (apktool.yml stores this), and after resigning, installation failed for the same reason as above. It seems that the device is detecting that the cert that I'm using is not the one used to sign the original application and failing on that. I've seen this happening when doing development on my personal apps.
This might not work, though I would love if someone could prove me wrong.
In the meantime, I was considering using pm hide to hide the default launcher and use some sort of softkey solution with a link to trebuchet or nova. I'll look into it tomorrow after I get a bit of sleep.
Edit:
Just a cursory test with an app called "overlay" and nova launcher is proving to be quite adequate. I have an on-screen overlaid app shortcut to nova launcher at all times. I will have to create app filters to stop the overlay from going in front of games and videos, but this seems to do the trick for me at least. I'll upload the overlay config tomorrow morning, but it's simple enough to figure out. I currently have com.amazon.firelauncher hidden, and after rebooting it automatically opens nova launcher and the overlay pops in about 10 seconds later.
Edit 2:
Since I don't have 10 posts yet, I'm not allowed to post links to files. It should be pretty easy to figure out how to set up Overlays though. I made my application link to nova launcher almost completely transparent and in the bottom right corner of my screen, and it works well, though there is a small delay before it gets back to the launcher.
Now that I've got the play store, Google keyboard, and a decent launcher, this is shaping up to be a good purchase.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can confirm this is working 100%. Now we have a fully functional tablet! Thanks so much for finding out about this work-around! My hat goes to you sir. :highfive:
xT29c said:
Can confirm this is working 100%. Now we have a fully funcation tablet!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not working 100%
working 75%
everything works fine BUT Widgets
no widgets work
crashes to "settings" when you try to install one
example
the weather channel (or event flow calendar)
drag to desktop
CRASH to the Fires "settings" window
any fix or work around for this
peace
Ricci
PS: widgets have a value of at least 25% as everyone has one on their device
and is the first thing people see when the turn their device on
25% may be too low but i had to give it a value
Has anyone tried another launcher? Maybe Google Now or APEX...
a1yet said:
CRASH to the Fires "settings" window
any fix or work around for this
peace
Ricci
PS: widgets have a value of at least 25% as everyone has one on their device
and is the first thing people see when the turn their device on
25% may be too low but i had to give it a value
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is exactly what happens on 2014 HDs, too. The fix is to convert launcher to system app, which requires root.
DoLooper said:
This is exactly what happens on 2014 HDs, too. The fix is to convert launcher to system app, which requires root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you for letting me know this
I'll stop banging my head against a wall thinking I'm dum (or is it dumb ?)
LOL
thanks again
Ricci
Hello, in this guide I am going to describe how to side load android apps on the lenovo smart clock 2.
Requirements.
A device to use the google home app.
A List of apps you want to install, make sure you have a keyboard and home screen launcher in mind.
Not a requirement but basic understanding of the talk back screen reader will be helpful.
Next some things to be aware of.
While ADB is in developer settings I haven’t found a way to connect the clock to a pc using the dock I tried a usb C to A cable but that did not work.
The draw over other apps permission is unavailable.
Here are the specks that we are working with.
Processor
MediaTek™ MT8167S Processor (1.50 GHz)
Operating System
Android 10
Display Type
4.0" LCD IPS Touchscreen
Memory
1 GB
Hard Drive
8 GB Flash We have about 3.3 GB free.
Finally, I am visually impaired so the way I describe things may not make sense for some. If you have trouble understanding please let me know.
Note You are doing all this at your own risk. However, everything is easy to undo with a factory reset.
Instructions for factory resetting.
Flip the mute switch to muted.
Press both volume buttons for ten seconds.
A window should now come up asking if you want to reset. If nothing is pressed the device will auto reset in a minute.
OK, let’s start.
Find a website where the apk is that you want to install.
Now find a way where that website will come up in a google search.
Note do to how google displays the search button may not be available, so we will have to rely on Google’s auto complete feature.
Examples:
If you were looking for nova launcher, you would be using nova launcher.ap we will want google to finish adding the K.
Add this word to your calendar. For example,nova launcher.ap
Make sure this is the same calendar that the clock is signed in to.
Next open the google home app. Find your device click on settings then accessibility.
Next click the switch next to screenreader.
Your clock should now start talking or making sounds.
If so, ask google “what’s on my calendar?” Swipe right until the event you added is spoken or highlighted.
Next swipe down and right in a single motion an L shape.
Swipe right until copy last utterance is selected double tap, if successful the menu should disappear.
It may take a few tries to get it.
Next open the same menu, (swipe down and right.)
Swipe until talkback settings is selected. Double tap again.
A new screen should appear.
Now swipe, swipe a lot until privacy policy is selected.
Double tap, a browser should now open.
Swipe and double tap to allow all the permissions.
Next swipe until google apps is selected. Double tap then find search and double tap to activate.
Find the search box, double tap to get into it.
Now swipe up and right in a single motion
If successful a new menu should come up. Find edit then activate paste.
If the text gets pasted in the search box, you can now turn off talkback.
Back on your phone flip the switch next to screenreader.
Now here is where things get difficult, the text should be in the box, But I was not able to see the search button with talkback. If you see the button, try turning off
talkback and pressing it
If the search button does not show up here is where you will have to rely on Google auto complete suggestions.
You should have a pretty good idea of what to do from here.
Note that when you download something a window will come up with all downloaded files. The first time you install an apk you will have to click allow from this source when that window comes up.
Notes.
I recommend you install something like nova launcher, for a replacement home screen.
When you install a replacement home screen you will have to click always on the new window that will pop up.
If you want to get back to the regular clock interface, launch the home app.
Any questions feal free to ask.
Remember doing a factory reset will clear all changes made.
What apps have you found that work well and are useful?
Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.
Mainly want to get the Google home app on there.
Need some help. Got nova launcher running. Then when I applied my nova settings, it went back to the Lenovo home screen. How do I get it back to nova? Lol
Nevermind. I found it.
willbilec said:
Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
willbilec said:
Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a quick way to get back to nova launcher when I decide to be on the clock for a while.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you open the home app, not assistant core. their is a app called home, this app should allow you to get back to the default launcher if you do the back gesture.
I am trying to get Ring in it!
Any chance you can do a YouTube guide on how to do this. I would love to be able to install Auora OSS to easily install other apps. Thanks.
I am going to make a YouTube tutorial and how to connect Bluetooth keyboard! NOT USB !!!!!!DONGLE!!!!!!
How can I enable notification toggle ?
willbilec said:
Hello, in this guide I am going to describe how to side load android apps on the lenovo smart clock 2.
Requirements.
A device to use the google home app.
A List of apps you want to install, make sure you have a keyboard and home screen launcher in mind.
Not a requirement but basic understanding of the talk back screen reader will be helpful.
Next some things to be aware of.
While ADB is in developer settings I haven’t found a way to connect the clock to a pc using the dock I tried a usb C to A cable but that did not work.
The draw over other apps permission is unavailable.
Here are the specks that we are working with.
Processor
MediaTek™ MT8167S Processor (1.50 GHz)
Operating System
Android 10
Display Type
4.0" LCD IPS Touchscreen
Memory
1 GB
Hard Drive
8 GB Flash We have about 3.3 GB free.
Finally, I am visually impaired so the way I describe things may not make sense for some. If you have trouble understanding please let me know.
Note You are doing all this at your own risk. However, everything is easy to undo with a factory reset.
Instructions for factory resetting.
Flip the mute switch to muted.
Press both volume buttons for ten seconds.
A window should now come up asking if you want to reset. If nothing is pressed the device will auto reset in a minute.
OK, let’s start.
Find a website where the apk is that you want to install.
Now find a way where that website will come up in a google search.
Note do to how google displays the search button may not be available, so we will have to rely on Google’s auto complete feature.
Examples:
If you were looking for nova launcher, you would be using nova launcher.ap we will want google to finish adding the K.
Add this word to your calendar. For example,nova launcher.ap
Make sure this is the same calendar that the clock is signed in to.
Next open the google home app. Find your device click on settings then accessibility.
Next click the switch next to screenreader.
Your clock should now start talking or making sounds.
If so, ask google “what’s on my calendar?” Swipe right until the event you added is spoken or highlighted.
Next swipe down and right in a single motion an L shape.
Swipe right until copy last utterance is selected double tap, if successful the menu should disappear.
It may take a few tries to get it.
Next open the same menu, (swipe down and right.)
Swipe until talkback settings is selected. Double tap again.
A new screen should appear.
Now swipe, swipe a lot until privacy policy is selected.
Double tap, a browser should now open.
Swipe and double tap to allow all the permissions.
Next swipe until google apps is selected. Double tap then find search and double tap to activate.
Find the search box, double tap to get into it.
Now swipe up and right in a single motion
If successful a new menu should come up. Find edit then activate paste.
If the text gets pasted in the search box, you can now turn off talkback.
Back on your phone flip the switch next to screenreader.
Now here is where things get difficult, the text should be in the box, But I was not able to see the search button with talkback. If you see the button, try turning off
talkback and pressing it
If the search button does not show up here is where you will have to rely on Google auto complete suggestions.
You should have a pretty good idea of what to do from here.
Note that when you download something a window will come up with all downloaded files. The first time you install an apk you will have to click allow from this source when that window comes up.
Notes.
I recommend you install something like nova launcher, for a replacement home screen.
When you install a replacement home screen you will have to click always on the new window that will pop up.
If you want to get back to the regular clock interface, launch the home app.
Any questions feal free to ask.
Remember doing a factory reset will clear all changes made.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So my issue here is how to enable the screen reader using the google home app on iOS. I think they removed it
So after installing Nova Launcher there will be a pop-up we always have to click? Is that the choose default launcher pop-up?
@willbilec Could you please list what software build version you have? Because I can get to auroraoss and nova launcher but when I click the download APK button the button flashes (so I know it was clicked), but nothing happens? No pop-up to click install. What am I missing?
I am facing the same problem, after clicking on the download link nothing happens. Has the download capability been disabled on the latest build? I know that as soon as I turned on the device and got it connected it performed an update
After I've added the link to my calendar and ask google to show my calendar she says she can't find anything in my calendar. Is this patched?
I followed this guide again and it worked totally fine. I went into settings and disabled auto update and turned on OEM unlock.
This is a really cool solution that almost worked with the mi smart clock.
Unfortunately the xiaomi(or google?) guys have scraped everything that resembles a browser or could possibly open a link.
Also, went trough all the settings (using the method described above, and searching for settings, apps, etc.) Everything that's USB or Bluetooth related is severely cut down to only work as needed for the intended functionality. Can't attach a keyboard. Can't transfer a file trough Bluetooth. So, although in theory you could install anything, u can't get any new files downloaded on the device.
When i get to the paste section, it seems somehow "Home" has been copied instead of my event name.
When i'm copying i've checked "repeat last utterance" before i "copy last utterance" and it's correct, but when i go to paste in the search box, i get "Home"
is this happening to anyone else?
Nice work!
ggreenwood334 said:
Need some help. Got nova launcher running. Then when I applied my nova settings, it went back to the Lenovo home screen. How do I get it back to nova? Lol
Nevermind. I found it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...So what did you do? I can't figure this part out either.
edit 1:
ok for anyone else, follow the instructions again right up to install, but instead of "install" select "open". Then when I rebooted the device i was able to tell it to use nova launcher "always", and then using the launcher home to get to the android settings, I was able to connect a bluetooth mouse and keyboard.
However, short of rebooting every time the clock home screen or browser comes up, I haven't figured out a quick way to exit that and return to the nova launcher home.
edit 2: Ok with the screen reader enabled, you can swipe up and left (L shape rotated 180 degrees) to return Home, then set Nova7 as Home. If you add a bluetooth keyboard, you can also alt+F4 to return home.
Has anyone been able (A) to get ride of the "muted microphone" screen overlay icon or (B) prevent the google home setup screen from taking over when trying to connect to a wifi ssid without internet access?