Related
A few folks have asked for a step-by-step, so I thought it might be helpful to have a copy here on XDA. GMPOWER has recently created a thread on his ManualNooter for NC 1.4.1 which should be considered the authoritative source on the basic rooting process. I'm going to leave this post here to collect other tips & tricks that can be done post-root.
I want to emphasize that I did none of the original work required for this effort to succeed. I only seem to follow instructions carefully, and know just enough to figure out what instructions to ignore. I'm posting this here because I'm hoping other will benefit from skipping a few of the painful steps I went through to get this working. All credit goes to GMPOWER, Dalingrin, Roustabout and the wonderful crew at XDA that create these tools to let us get more out of our devices!
TARGET AUDIENCE
This guide is for anybody wanting to root the stock Barnes and Noble 1.4.1 firmware. Is it worth it? Probably not. With all the options available today, reverting to B&N makes sense if, and only if, if you want to use any of the following B&N capabilities:
Read to me (mostly children's book)
Enhanced content (e.g. Conde Nast magazines such as Wired, New Yorker, though some of these are becoming available via 3rd party sources.)
Newpaper or magazine subscriptions (auto-update)
B&N Free in-store reading
Support from friends with stock Nooks or B&N (conditional upon being rooted)
The B&N reader experience and shell. The B&N Android Nook app is not the same thing as their firmware experience, at least not yet. Someday, they may update the B&N Nook Android app, but it is pretty poor right now. If you want to read B&N stuff, then 1.4.1 is a big deal.
If these apply, consider keeping your NC at B&N 1.4.1. If you want 3rd party content (e.g. Kindle), then root it, but make sure you've got it configured NOT to auto-update, since B&N has killed sideloading with OTA updates.
If you will not be using B&N content, then go with Cyanogenmod or similar. The B&N firmware suffers a lot of shortcomings compared to the "full tablet" experience:
Lots of settings are missing.
Getting a 3rd party keyboard to work is possible, but very kludgy at present. I had luck with SwiftKey by copying the apk from /data/app to /system/app as directed in NookColor Tools.
If you're looking to install CyanogenMod or other firmware, check out Koopakid08's A Noobs Guide to Getting Started with a Custom Rom on the Nook Color.
BACKGROUND
I started out reading and trying the procedure described the XDA thread on rooting 1.2 and 1.3:
[NC][1.2][1.3] ManualNooter 4.6.16 - xda-developers
However, it is critical to realize that the directions early on in that thread do not work for 1.4.1. The magic starts at about page 160. Below is my distillation of this information in easy-to-digest form (hopefully).
PROCESS
You need to create a ClockworkMod (CWM) bootable SD card to reset your device back to standard B&N firmware, and to install the "manualnooter" root kit. Colchiro has posted a nice summary over at Androidforums. His guide includes the latest (3.2.0.1) CWM versions.
Restore to stock B&N ROM. I'd been running CM7.1 on emmc, so had to go through the process of restoring to a stock B&N 1.3 ROM. Depending on the age of the article you read on how to do this, you may have problems either formatting /data or get into a boot loop at the 'n' logo. You need a current CWM to be able to successfully format /data. If /data is not properly formatted, you will get a bootloop at the B&N splash screen when you restart. Not a big deal to fix, but you can waste a lot of time on this. As of this writing, CWM 3.2.0.1 is the latest, and should allow you to format partitions without problems.
After restoring to B&N 1.3, I re-registered my device to make sure B&N functionality would work. After all, the only reason to bother with 1.4.1 is if you intend to use B&N content. Otherwise, save yourself the trouble. NOTE: We are not root yet.
Update to 1.4.1. I got my copy of 1.4.1 directly from B&N [EDIT 01162012: I have verified that the latest as of this date still works as described here.] Your Nook Color will also update to the latest if you just let 1.3 unrooted go to sleep if you don't have ClockWorkMod installed to eMMC. I have confirmed that this procedure works with the following nookcolor_1_4_1_update.zip md5sum: 2a27f54b65431a096af4f07967bcd6b5 (post-Christmas 2011)
Once 1.4.1 was running unrooted, I then followed GMPOWER's efforts over at XDA. The key is to run an updated version of manualnooter that does not make the database updates. As of this writing, his latest 5.01.24 can be found in post 1745. So far as I know, the official manualnooter repositories have not been updated.
Copy manualnooter-5.01.24.zip (or whatever the latest is) to your bootable SD recovery card.
Boot the recovery SD card.
Install manualnooter-5.01.21.zip.
Remove the recovery SD card and reboot your NC. It boots any card present, so this is kinda important. Behold the pretty startup screens. You should have root at this point.
Be sure to select Zeam as your initial launcher. Note that if you press the 'n' key at this point, you'll be taken back to the B&N interface, and not have ready access to anything non-standard. This is not a big deal. Simply press 'n'->Search and enter zeam in the search box. It should locate zeam. Select it to launch.
To enable 3rd party apps to load, you must open the NookColor Tools program. There's a magic check box that enables 3rd party apps at the top. By default, the text is white on white, so impossible to see. Select that box twice - to uncheck then recheck (toggle) it. When you are done, it should be checked.
To get 3rd party apps to show up in the Nook interface, download Nook Color App Manager from the Market. HINT: Don't go overboard and select everything. Select only those things you really want to see in the B&N Walled Garden. You might also want to select the HomeCatcher app (included in ManualNooter) to allow using the 'n' button to go to your launcher of choice, but I do not. My philosophy is to keep the B&N interface as much as possible, or I wouldn't have gone to all this effort. When I need "power user" functions, I just launch zeam using the search procedure listed above.
Disable OTA updates. B&N auto over-the-air (OTA) updates apparently break root, and lately, sideloading. There seems to be some debate about what works best for this, but I've gone for modifying the devicemanager.db using SQLite Editor to open devicemanager.db and change registry->com.bn.device.fota.mode from "auto" to "manual". You can use an alternate method with a free sqlite3 binary from the command line. So far, no nasty OTA surprises.
COMMON PROBLEMS
Here are some common problems and what to do about them:
Can't overclock. GMPOWER has indicated that an overclocked kernel is not provided as of manualnooter-5.1.24. You need to install Dalingrin's overclocked kernel for B&N 1.3 (NOTE: Dalingrin's hosting site for these files seems to be offline. Doncarauana has posted a set of temporary links to the kernel files you can try. You will also need a copy of Dalingrin's Nook Color Tweaks installed.
Can't format /data when restoring to stock firmware. You probably followed an old guide on how to do this. Depending on the age of your NC, the version of CWM you're using may not handle partition changes. You need to update CWM. See Step 1, above.
Bootloop at the 'n' logo when trying to restore B&N firmware.You probably goofed. Hard as it is to believe, it's very easy to miss the fact that /data wasn't formatted. This is the same problem as the preceding problem. Just follow Step 1, above, and be sure /data actually gets formatted.
1.4.1 is rooted, but unable to install anything from Android Market or Amazon App Store. When this happens, everything appears to be working, but after downloading, apps will fail to install. They key is to use GMPOWER's latest manualnooter and do not ever, even once, install one of the older versions. Refer to Steps 4 and 10, above. I had to restart from scratch to make up for not paying attention and running the old manualnooter versions. Something to do with a database patch that causes problems.
Facebook and other apps are missing from Android Market. UPDATE: This is fixed with GMPOWER's manualnooter-5.01.24.zip. (For other apps: A simple workaround is to install the app onto another Android device, then use Android Assistant to make a backup .apk and copy that to the Nook Color. If you only have a Nook Color Android device, you can create a bootable SD with CyanogenMod (see above) and install to that, then use this procedure to copy the .apk over.)
UPDATES
2/14/2012: Updated to add link to manual procedure for blocking OTA updates using sqlite3.
2/13/2012: Updated to include link to GMPOWER's thread on his ManualNooter for NC 1.4.1.
2/6/2012: Updated links for Dalingrin's overclocked kernel to include Doncarauna's temporary links.
1/24/2012: Updated to reference GMPOWER's manualnooter-5.01.24, restored references to Dalingrin's OC'ed 1.3 kernel.
1/22/2012: Updated to reference GMPOWER's manualnooter-5.01.21, remove references to APPS2SD not working. It's working now! Removed overclock kernel as a concern. GMPOWER's latest MN includes it. Added link to Colchiro's SD HOWTO at Androidforums.
1/16/2012: Updated description of 1.4.1 update now that I've verified this procedure works with the latest, and added link to SQlite OTA blocking procedure.
1/11/2012: Updated link to GMPOWER's ManualNooter update to be more concise.
Thanks, This really helped me to get my nook rooted.
So running CM7.1 off a sd card is another way in a good way or is there a better way to root a NC. The reason I ask is because I am running of a SD and it stalls on me when i go to turn it off and back on. Is there something I need still to download.
ciscom25 said:
So running CM7.1 off a sd card is another way in a good way or is there a better way to root a NC. The reason I ask is because I am running of a SD and it stalls on me when i go to turn it off and back on. Is there something I need still to download.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like your CM install is screwed up. It should have no problems powering on and off. However, if you don't care about the B&N stuff, you'll be better off installing CM to internal (eMMC) storage so you're not dependent on the SD card and can use it freely.
This guide is only about rooting the stock firmware if you decide you do want the B&N stuff. Koopkakid08 has a great summary on alternate firmware strategies.
Your link for the MN 5.x.x post needs to point here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20456719&postcount=1631
Taosaur said:
Your link for the MN 5.x.x post needs to point here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20456719&postcount=1631
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll update to include the single post you pointed to, and move the full-thread discussion to a separate APPS2SD issue at the bottom. I think that will make the step-by-step clearer, while still pointing to the ongoing efforts GMPOWER is working on.
I urge anybody rooting 1.4.1 to track the ongoing discussion and GMPOWER's updates.
Thanks!
Bumpity bump
Do these instructions assume you have CWM already installed? Sorry I got lost at "Copy manualnooter-5.12.XX.zip, or whatever the latest is, to your bootable SD recovery card." because I have no idea what you mean by "bootable SD recovery card". Do I need to create this?
Followed directions
Am rooted but none of the nook tools apps are present when launching zeam
Neither are Gapps.
Must they be flashed separately or were they supposed to bepart of the flashing procedure for manual nooter
Looking at manualnooter-5.12.20, you should have an older version of the Android Market app, gmail, calendar, contacts, maps, homecatcher, rom manager, superuser, talk, YouTube and SoftKeys. What are you missing?
wasnt said:
Do these instructions assume you have CWM already installed? Sorry I got lost at "Copy manualnooter-5.12.XX.zip, or whatever the latest is, to your bootable SD recovery card." because I have no idea what you mean by "bootable SD recovery card". Do I need to create this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the bootable SD recovery card is where you install the CWM. creating this recovery card is the first step you to root the nookcolor. Not only you need it to install the manualnooter (MN), it also allows you to reset to stock setting and other good stuffs.
Good catch, guys. I've inserted a new step 1 which points to a guide for creating a bootable CWM card. Thanks for pointing out that omission.
"Updated to reference GMPOWER's manualnooter-5.01.21, remove references to APPS2SD not working. It's working now! Removed overclock kernel as a concern. GMPOWER's latest MN includes it."
Thanks for this thread.
Does this mean you are able to use Nook Color Tweaks to overclock? I upgraded to MN 5.0.1.21 but I still get an error message in Nook Color Tweaks
" Kernel is not compatible with Audio settings. A newer build of CM7 or Dalingrin's overclock kernel is required"
Also, any idea where I can obtain the kernel other than somehow pulling it from a CM7 build?
Thanks,
Ken
Help! I really messed up this time.
I followed the instructions to install 1.3.0 but did not update to 1.4.1 and then I completed the root. I see the Android Market and can actually buy an app. However, installation hangs at "authorizing" because, according to Android Market support, the Nook is not authorized to load apps from the Android Market. So, clearly something is wrong. Either nobody can run those apps, which I doubt, or I messed up.
To compound the problem, I default to Zeam Launcher and cannot boot into B & N. I have also tried to force a reset by 8 failed starts but that did not work. This Noob could really use some help to fix the problem.
chengka said:
"Updated to reference GMPOWER's manualnooter-5.01.21, remove references to APPS2SD not working. It's working now! Removed overclock kernel as a concern. GMPOWER's latest MN includes it."
Thanks for this thread.
Does this mean you are able to use Nook Color Tweaks to overclock? I upgraded to MN 5.0.1.21 but I still get an error message in Nook Color Tweaks
" Kernel is not compatible with Audio settings. A newer build of CM7 or Dalingrin's overclock kernel is required"
Also, any idea where I can obtain the kernel other than somehow pulling it from a CM7 build?
Thanks,
Ken
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A kernel was not included in any of the MN releases for 1.4.1, you will need to download the Dalingrin kernel to use Nook Color Tweaks, LINK
rkulp said:
I followed the instructions to install 1.3.0 but did not update to 1.4.1 and then I completed the root. I see the Android Market and can actually buy an app. However, installation hangs at "authorizing" because, according to Android Market support, the Nook is not authorized to load apps from the Android Market. So, clearly something is wrong. Either nobody can run those apps, which I doubt, or I messed up.
To compound the problem, I default to Zeam Launcher and cannot boot into B & N. I have also tried to force a reset by 8 failed starts but that did not work. This Noob could really use some help to fix the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The direction were for firmware 1.4.1, since you have firmware 1.3 you can update to 1.4.1, or follow these directions, LINK
Thanks! I have CM7 on way too many devices, tee hee, so I wanted to go back to stock on the reader to compare battery life.
Download Dalingrin's OC Kernel
Thanks for the guide! Working great but I can't seem to find a functioning download link for Dalingrin's kernel. Anyone have one?
I found Dalingrin's kernel here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=925451
Some folks are having problems with some of the links, though.
Great guide, I tried CM7 on the SD Card, but I just found that I like the plain look of the B&N interface. Using your guide as a template I nootered my Nook, and will be doing my wife's later. I am also looking for Dalingrin's OC Kernel, I have had it from previous nooters, but my hard drive crashed, and I had erased all of my microsd cards, because I had all the files on my hard drive . So if anyone has a working link, or could send me the file I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks, RDRANGER
Downloading binaries of any sort from an unknown source makes me queasy, but if you're feeling daring, there's a post in the Dalingrin 1.3 kernel thread to a copy. Use at your own risk, etc.
I have the new update and it's running great. Is there any way to just enable the setting to allow sideloaded apps like the amazon app store. Is there any way to only modify that 1 setting? Thanks for any help!
toaks said:
I have the new update and it's running great. Is there any way to just enable the setting to allow sideloaded apps like the amazon app store. Is there any way to only modify that 1 setting? Thanks for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not manually in stock settings. You need to flash my Extras zip from my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature. That puts a few extra apps on, but you can go to settings and remove them if you don't want them.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10 on Hybrid SD
Anyway you could give a list of what those apps are? Is that all that's in the extras zip? A few apps, and the 3rd party install hack? After flashing that 1 zip, the amazon appstore should work? Thanks again for all the help.
toaks said:
Anyway you could give a list of what those apps are? Is that all that's in the extras zip? A few apps, and the 3rd party install hack? After flashing that 1 zip, the amazon appstore should work? Thanks again for all the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
look at the description on that thread for the extras zip. It lists what the apps are. And yes, that is basically what the zip is. Yes the Amazon store should work after flashing that.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running rooted stock
Thank you so much! My Nook HD+ is damn near perfect now. I appreciate all the help and super quick responses you have given me over the last couple of days. I really appreciate everything you do on the site to help further development on the Nook HD+.
leapinlar - Thank you.
Thank you again. I've been working with PC's since the DOS days, but I'm not a programmer. My first exposure to ADB was when I rooted the original Nook. ADB drivers and device connectivity takes a bit of trial and error. Your excellent zip file work avoids all this. Your gapps/playstore/extras zip file was just want I needed in order to install applications from external sources on my Nook HD+ running 2.1.0. I can now install apps from the Amazon Appstore and sideload apps from apk files (SiriusXM was the first). Keep up the good work (modest donation made).
I officially feel like my Nook 9 is perfect. I can now use the stock interface, since I can now load all of my widgets and app shortcuts on the home screen without having to go through the extras menu. I now have Amazon Kindle and Music, Google Play, Music, Mail, etc and I still get all of the benefits of the Nook itself.
The only thing is that I feel like the Amazon App store has been killing my battery. Otherwise this was a welcome, unexpected update.
toaks said:
Thank you so much! My Nook HD+ is damn near perfect now. I appreciate all the help and super quick responses you have given me over the last couple of days. I really appreciate everything you do on the site to help further development on the Nook HD+.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in the same boat. All I want to do is be able to side load Flash and my N64 app. What steps did you do to be able to take an unrooted stock 2.1 device and flash to allow side loading non market apps? This is all I want. Nothing else but the ability to side load apps.
rushless said:
I am in the same boat. All I want to do is be able to side load Flash and my N64 app. What steps did you do to be able to take an unrooted stock 2.1 device and flash to allow side loading non market apps? This is all I want. Nothing else but the ability to side load apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, make a bootable CWM SD and flash the extras zip. It will allow installation of apps from unknown sources.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, make a bootable CWM SD and flash the extras zip. It will allow installation of apps from unknown sources.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes this is exactly what I did. Once it was fully installed I uninstalled Zeam Launcher. Now it is stock Nook with the ability to side load apps. Perfect!!
leapinlar said:
Not manually in stock settings. You need to flash my Extras zip from my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature. That puts a few extra apps on, but you can go to settings and remove them if you don't want them.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10 on Hybrid SD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello leapinlar,
On your HD/HD+ CWM thread, you say that you don't need to have an SD card to to enable unknown sources, but you can download the Extras zip file to the internal memory and I can install the file that way. Is that correct. I'm hoping so because I don't have an SD card on me right now.
P.S. I'm a newbie to all of this, so I'd really appreciate your help. I don't want to root my NOOK HD+, i just want to allow unknown sources!
simfate said:
Hello leapinlar,
On your HD/HD+ CWM thread, you say that you don't need to have an SD card to to enable unknown sources, but you can download the Extras zip file to the internal memory and I can install the file that way. Is that correct. I'm hoping so because I don't have an SD card on me right now.
P.S. I'm a newbie to all of this, so I'd really appreciate your help. I don't want to root my NOOK HD+, i just want to allow unknown sources!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not say that. I said you do not need to root to enable unknown sources. You need an SD so that you can make a bootable CWM SD so you can flash my extras zip.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
disable unknown sources?
I recently flashed my HD+ back to stock (had gotten some sort of malware on there I think) and added the Extras zip. Works perfectly (thanks leapinlar!), but I've got a dumb question – is there a way to go back and disable “unknown sources”? I'd like to be able to turn it on and off when needed within the settings or somewhere for some extra piece of mind security-wise. I occasionally use the amazon app store or sideload something, but not all that often.
Thanks again,
ac-t660 said:
I recently flashed my HD+ back to stock (had gotten some sort of malware on there I think) and added the Extras zip. Works perfectly (thanks leapinlar!), but I've got a dumb question – is there a way to go back and disable “unknown sources”? I'd like to be able to turn it on and off when needed within the settings or somewhere for some extra piece of mind security-wise. I occasionally use the amazon app store or sideload something, but not all that often.
Thanks again,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not without being rooted. If you are rooted you can use SQLite Editor to manually edit the database, but there is no other way. I would not worry about it. I would worry more about root reseting you than the security issue of having unknown sources activated.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
hey i rooted the nook hd+, 2.1.1 stock. and i flashed the extras.zip .... is there a setting i have to turn on to enable unknown sources?
i downloaded es file explorer and installed via google drive apk files, and also from my sd, it still says installation blocked, since it's not an app from the nook store...
help?
i did everything, still nto working...
mrazndead said:
hey i rooted the nook hd+, 2.1.1 stock. and i flashed the extras.zip .... is there a setting i have to turn on to enable unknown sources?
i downloaded es file explorer and installed via google drive apk files, and also from my sd, it still says installation blocked, since it's not an app from the nook store...
help?
i did everything, still nto working...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I answered in your other post. Please do not post the same question in two different threads. It is confusing.
Sent from my BN NookHD+ using XDA Premium HD app
Hi leapinlar,
I have both nook hd and nook hd plus, I just followed your thread and successfully flash the zip file to enable unknown sources in my nook hd plus. do I use the same files and instruction to enable other sources for my nook hd ?
jendol said:
Hi leapinlar,
I have both nook hd and nook hd plus, I just followed your thread and successfully flash the zip file to enable unknown sources in my nook hd plus. do I use the same files and instruction to enable other sources for my nook hd ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but you need a different CWM SD.
Sent from my BN NookHD+ using XDA Premium HD app
I tried using same files but new sd card, but it didn't work until I change using bootfiles for nookhd instead of the nookhdplus bootfiles, then everything works well. thank you leapinlar
If I go ahead and do this, would anything need to be altered/removed if I need to return the tablet under warranty?
The tablet is for my Mother who's not at all tech savvy - if it were mine I'd be running a custom ROM on it by now - so I need it to be straight forward just in case there are any issues with the tablet.
Is it possible on the stock software that you can sideload apps like adobe flash? Looked high and low and couldn't find a setting in the settings menu.
Chadashcroft22 said:
Is it possible on the stock software that you can sideload apps like adobe flash? Looked high and low and couldn't find a setting in the settings menu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is not a setting that you can modify. But if you go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, I have a flashable CWM zip that sets it for you. Look at item 3, Extras.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
There is not a setting that you can modify. But if you go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, I have a flashable CWM zip that sets it for you. Look at item 3, Extras.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On my stock HD when I first bought it no root it said developer options and adb and sideloading were there. It was on 1.2 stock
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
CubeCloudOS said:
On my stock HD when I first bought it no root it said developer options and adb and sideloading were there. It was on 1.2 stock
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can still use ADB to connect and sideload apps, but it is very difficult to set up. My CWM method is much easier.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
There is not a setting that you can modify. But if you go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, I have a flashable CWM zip that sets it for you. Look at item 3, Extras.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can vouch that I added the side load option through leaplinlar method and it worked out great. I wanted to test out stock before full commit to cm10 but wanted amazon app store to download some apps to test.
leapinlar said:
Yes, you can still use ADB to connect and sideload apps, but it is very difficult to set up. My CWM method is much easier.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello guys from xda-developers.com, I desperately need your help. I just got a new Nook HD+ and I live in a country where is very difficult to access to the internet by anyway. So, I can’t register the HD+ to Barnes&Noble site, nor purchase apps or get the HD+ working on.
I just want to use the Nook as a no-wifi stand-alone device for reading, watching movies, gaming, and using apps like calendar, calculator, alarm clock and so on by finding a safe way for sideloading apps and files locally from my computer to it. How I should do this and get the Nook HD+ completely useful? Now the Nook is in test mode, skipping first registration screen with OOBE procedure after a factory reset. I need detailed step-by-step instructions.
I would appreciate any help. Thanks in advance.
estebanhg1967 said:
Hello guys from xda-developers.com, I desperately need your help. I just got a new Nook HD+ and I live in a country where is very difficult to access to the internet by anyway. So, I can’t register the HD+ to Barnes&Noble site, nor purchase apps or get the HD+ working on.
I just want to use the Nook as a no-wifi stand-alone device for reading, watching movies, gaming, and using apps like calendar, calculator, alarm clock and so on by finding a safe way for sideloading apps and files locally from my computer to it. How I should do this and get the Nook HD+ completely useful? Now the Nook is in test mode, skipping first registration screen with OOBE procedure after a factory reset. I need detailed step-by-step instructions.
I would appreciate any help. Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature and make a bootable CWM SD. Use that to flash my Universal Root rev3 and my enable Unknown Sources and you can sideload any app you want. The hardest part for you will be getting a file manager working so that you can sideload. With no internet I'm not sure what you can do. If you don't have internet, how are you reading this?
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Rooted Nook HD+
leapinlar said:
Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature and make a bootable CWM SD. Use that to flash my Universal Root rev3 and my enable Unknown Sources and you can sideload any app you want. The hardest part for you will be getting a file manager working so that you can sideload. With no internet I'm not sure what you can do. If you don't have internet, how are you reading this?
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I did it and it worked up perfectly at first try. Later put reading files and apps on the external SD card and using OfficeSuite could read word and pdf files with no problems. But I could not find a way to run my own apps. How can I do that?. Sorry if that is a silly question but I am new to tablets world and I feel like a deer in the headlights (your saying) or like a cow at the movies (our saying). Greetings from Cuba.
estebanhg1967 said:
Thanks. I did it and it worked up perfectly at first try. Later put reading files and apps on the external SD card and using OfficeSuite could read word and pdf files with no problems. But I could not find a way to run my own apps. How can I do that?. Sorry if that is a silly question but I am new to tablets world and I feel like a deer in the headlights (your saying) or like a cow at the movies (our saying). Greetings from Cuba.
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Click to collapse
Not sure what you mean, run your own apps. You mean after you installed them, finding them to run? There are two ways.
Sideloaded apps do not show in the stock app drawer. But you can open another screen that does show them. Go to apps and hold your finger on the apps title bar and push the volume up button. An new screen called extras shows. Your apps will be there.
Another way is to sideload an alternate launcher like zeam. Then when you hit the n key it gives you the option of using it by default instead of the stock launcher. Do it. Your sideloaded apps show there.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
Not sure what you mean, run your own apps. You mean after you installed them, finding them to run? There are two ways.
Sideloaded apps do not show in the stock app drawer. But you can open another screen that does show them. Go to apps and hold your finger on the apps title bar and push the volume up button. An new screen called extras shows. Your apps will be there.
Another way is to sideload an alternate launcher like zeam. Then when you hit the n key it gives you the option of using it by default instead of the stock launcher. Do it. Your sideloaded apps show there.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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I meant: I want to run the .apk files I have on the external SD card which were copied on it by attaching the SD card reader to my PC. Explain me how to get those apps running or link to some tutorial. Thanks.
estebanhg1967 said:
I meant: I want to run the .apk files I have on the external SD card which were copied on it by attaching the SD card reader to my PC. Explain me how to get those apps running or link to some tutorial. Thanks.
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That is what I meant when I said you would have a challenge doing it without internet.
The problem is those apk files must be installed before they can be run. The normal way to install them after you flashed my zip is to open the apk with a file manager. When you do, a dialog box opens asking if you want to install. Easy enough.
But stock has no file manager to open the apks with. So you have to get one somehow. If you have no internet and no ability to run a store, there is no way to get one. You might try the 'files' function in stock to do it.
Edit: Actually I figured it out for you.
1. Find an apk for a file manager, like root browser, es file manager or other.
2. Copy that apk to your internal sd using your USB cable attached to your PC.
3. Open chrome with your app drawer.
4. In the chrome address bar type the following:
file:///sdcard/nameofapk.apk
5. Hit enter
6. It will ask if you want to keep it, say yes.
7. When it is finished downloading, click on the little down arrow in the top middle of the screen. It will ask if you want to complete the action using two choices. Select package installer.
It will install the apk, hopefully your file manager. Now do the first (extras) method I showed you in my other post to find the app. Then use the file manager to open more apks and install them.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
That is what I meant when I said you would have a challenge doing it without internet.
The problem is those apk files must be installed before they can be run. The normal way to install them after you flashed my zip is to open the apk with a file manager. When you do, a dialog box opens asking if you want to install. Easy enough.
But stock has no file manager to open the apks with. So you have to get one somehow. If you have no internet and no ability to run a store, there is no way to get one. You might try the 'files' function in stock to do it.
Edit: Actually I figured it out for you.
1. Find an apk for a file manager, like root browser, es file manager or other.
2. Copy that apk to your internal sd using your USB cable attached to your PC.
3. Open chrome with your app drawer.
4. In the chrome address bar type the following:
file:///sdcard/nameofapk.apk
5. Hit enter
6. It will ask if you want to keep it, say yes.
7. When it is finished downloading, click on the little down arrow in the top middle of the screen. It will ask if you want to complete the action using two choices. Select package installer.
It will install the apk, hopefully your file manager. Now do the first (extras) method I showed you in my other post to find the app. Then use the file manager to open more apks and install them.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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I see I misused “run” for “sideloading.
Before trying that for sideloading a file manager tell me if there is another way to show the “extras” screen as it is difficult to get it show by pushing down volume up button and taping on App’s bar name. It not always work.
And why, if I see the Zem Launcher icon on Settings, Applications, My Apps, as installed, it doesn’t ask for choices when I push down “N” nook button.
Hope to make myself understood.
estebanhg1967 said:
I see I misused “run” for “sideloading.
Before trying that for sideloading a file manager tell me if there is another way to show the “extras” screen as it is difficult to get it show by pushing down volume up button and taping on App’s bar name. It not always work.
And why, if I see the Zem Launcher icon on Settings, Applications, My Apps, as installed, it doesn’t ask for choices when I push down “N” nook button.
Hope to make myself understood.
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Click to collapse
Yes, that extras screen is hard to activate.
But I have a fix for you. Go to settings and uninstall zeam. Then flash this file:
http://d-h.st/S0c
It is my old "extras" file (not related to the extras screen I was talking about earlier). It will re-install zeam and add root browser, which will let you install apks directly. And now when you do the n, it should give you the default choice.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
You have not read or responded to my PM with a new link. Check your PMs.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
You have not read or responded to my PM with a new link. Check your PMs.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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I flashed the file and reinstalled zeam launcher plus root browser and could sideload the ES File Manager from external SD card but still have to active the "extras" screen to reach to it. Nook buttom doesn’t give options. When pushed down, it takes me immediately to nook side. Movies are not played back either. Is there a way to change completely the Nook system to convert it into a more friendly android tablet?
estebanhg1967 said:
I flashed the file and reinstalled zeam launcher plus root browser and could sideload the ES File Manager from external SD card but still have to active the "extras" screen to reach to it. Nook buttom doesn’t give options. When pushed down, it takes me immediately to nook side. Movies are not played back either. Is there a way to change completely the Nook system to convert it into a more friendly android tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can install CM10.1. Look for the dummies guide for instructions.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
Yes, you can install CM10.1. Look for the dummies guide for instructions.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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Click to collapse
Is this the correct method for installing CM10.1 ?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317500
Which CM version from link below should I install for better safer and stable performance of Nook HD+?
http://download.cyanogenmod.com/?device=ovation
estebanhg1967 said:
Is this the correct method for installing CM10.1 ?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317500
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Click to collapse
Yes. But I recommend making the CWM SD using my new procedure in my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature. Follow item 1a, then do everything else per that thread you quoted.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
Yes. But I recommend making the CWM SD using my new procedure in my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature. Follow item 1a, then do everything else per that thread you quoted.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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So, all I have to do is to add the CM10.1 install file to the sd card I have been using until now to flash files, right?
Which CM10.1 install file do you recommend I should use from this link:
http://download.cyanogenmod.com/?device=ovation
estebanhg1967 said:
So, all I have to do is to add the CM10.1 install file to the sd card I have been using until now to flash files, right?
Which CM10.1 install file do you recommend I should use from this link:
http://download.cyanogenmod.com/?device=ovation
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Click to collapse
The CM10.1.3. And yes, you can use that same SD to flash it. If you want to use Play Store, you also need to flash the gapps zip. Gapps-jb-20130812-signed.zip from goo.im.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Just purchased Nook HD+ and let it do it's thing Software Ver 2.1. Realized Flash was an issue so I went to Play Store on my Laptop and accessed version that was loaded to my Droid Bionic. Google said it would load to other devices and it appeared on HD+. However it was not recognized on webpages in Chrome and same unsupported on ur device error occurred. Tried Dolphin and even though it said Flash enabled in settings would not play on sites I visited.
My question is can this be solved through rooting and then loading the Android Flash APK I downloaded from Adobe? And since this is my first time would the Cyanogen Mod 10.1 for Dumies be the way to go or is there a root method that simply unlocks Flash as an unsupported app within the stock OS.
I know I sound like an idiot so apologies for trampling on the lawn and going on the flowers. I really need flash to work on all sites including desktop versions. Thanks for any guidance.
The official Adobe flash plugin from helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/archived-flash-player-versions.html works fine in Firefox and Dolphin on my CM10.1 HD+. Should not be necessary to root, just allow installation from unknown sources.
Sadly Google has completely disabled flash in mobile chrome.
Sent from my HD+ Running CM 10.1 from emmc
CM 10.1 or CWM?
GandalfTheBlack said:
The official Adobe flash plugin from helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/archived-flash-player-versions.html works fine in Firefox and Dolphin on my CM10.1 HD+. Should not be necessary to root, just allow installation from unknown sources.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you're suggesting installing CyanogenMod and maybe the Dummies thread. This would give me an environment to load what I need with the unknown sources option that is available on my phone but not on stock HD+. If I don't have to worry about BN Updates messing things up that would be work.You don't need the SD card to be inserted for every bootup after this process I hope. Didn't think so and wouldn't want to after the card recognition problems with some of the newer units.
Thanks for the reply.
Jimdish255 said:
Sounds like you're suggesting installing CyanogenMod and maybe the Dummies thread. This would give me an environment to load what I need with the unknown sources option that is available on my phone but not on stock HD+. If I don't have to worry about BN Updates messing things up that would be work.You don't need the SD card to be inserted for every bootup after this process I hope. Didn't think so and wouldn't want to after the card recognition problems with some of the newer units.
Thanks for the reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, I have a CWM flashable zip there that allows unknown sources in stock without rooting. Then you can install flash.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
If you go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature, I have a CWM flashable zip there that allows unknown sources in stock without rooting. Then you can install flash.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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Click to collapse
So with the HD+ Bootable CWM6028 just add the extras zip to the sdcard. (one more dumb ques) Does it launch the extras or separate launcher required?
Also found this thread and playing catch-up: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=41165076
could not get flash working on cryogen even if i side loaded it.
however i gave carbon a shot and side loaded flash app and Firefox works perfectly.
never tried Firefox on cryogen it may work give it a try.....
Flash works great with stock or the JB CM 10.1. that I use now.
Leapinlar's Extras installs another launcher called Zeam, which you can use if you wish or uninstall. You can access extra apps in the Stock launcher by simultaneously touching "Apps" on the Apps screen and clicking Vol Up.
Sent from my HD+ Running CM 10.1 from emmc
Jimdish255 said:
So with the HD+ Bootable CWM6028 just add the extras zip to the sdcard. (one more dumb ques) Does it launch the extras or separate launcher required?
Also found this thread and playing catch-up: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=41165076
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The extras zip is just a collection of extra stuff. But what you are interested in is allowing unknown sources so you can install flash. Once you flash the extras zip with CWM, there is nothing else you need to do to be able to install the flash apk. It should sideload and install with a file manager.
Sent from my Galaxy Tab 2 using XDA Premium
Thanks for the answers. I'm going to give it a go without CM or Root for now. If it doesn't work out then plan b. Must have been tossing old low capacity sd cards because the only one left was 1gb. On hold for a day or 2.
Jimdish255 said:
Thanks for the answers. I'm going to give it a go without CM or Root for now. If it doesn't work out then plan b. Must have been tossing old low capacity sd cards because the only one left was 1gb. On hold for a day or 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 1GB should work. Use my new procedure in my HD/HD+ CWM thread.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
Just a couple final newbie questions.
Should there be any partitions on the SD Card where the image or bootfiles are separate from the zip file extras?
It also seems the laptop does not recognize the image file as taking up most of the 4g card when you go to properties it just shows 5 files before adding the extras zip. Is that correct?
Finally does the extras zip just go to the hd+ root or can it be put in a file folder and flashed from there?.
Thanks for all the newbie catching up.
No separate partitions on this card.
You did not say which method you used, the old procedure or the new.
It should have only the five files plus the unzipped extras file if you put it there. No folders.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
No separate partitions on this card.
You did not say which method you used, the old procedure or the new.
It should have only the five files plus the unzipped extras file if you put it there. No folders.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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Click to collapse
I made both but will try the bootfiles card first. Thanks for confirming the image files. I been working a lot lately will get to it finally today.
First try with bootfiles has gotten me the C and progress to 100% then went to welcome and home screen. On top it said it was checking SD Card. Did it not boot to it or is there an advanced menu I need to access? I have downloaded extras zip and flash apk to the device already and was hoping to just point it to them.
OK Got the 1gig card to boot with bootfiles. Also installed extras zip. Couldn't install flash from internal (nor recognized) file or with zeam. Shut down and added flash file to card. Then after reboot put card back in and searched for file with launcher and it did install.
I can play flash videos in chrome and in dolphin but dolphin has full controls that chrome does not. However I still cannot figure out how to play flash files I link to through sites like wiziwig.tv which I use often. If anyone has any ideas about these streaming videos please advise.
Thanks for getting me through and if I eventually need to go with full root or CGM I feel confident it is not that difficult.
I like my nook quite well, the only problem I have with it is I can't install my apk's to it. I've done some googling and I think im on the right trail here, the only problem is my inexperience with this type of stuff. I don't really know how to explain what my problem is other than I can't use the Terminal correctly so I'll just explain what I've found and where I get stuck.
(P.S. I'm on a Macbook)
(Also I made an account just for this question so I can't post the actual links due it being a new account)
I found this page on the B&N discussion boards:
h t t p://bookclubs.barnesandnoble.com/t5/NOOK-HD-HD-Support/Can-you-sideload-apps-on-a-non-rooted-HD/td-p/1461493
Which led me to ("keriflur" suggested this towards the bottom):
h t t ps://nookdeveloper.zendesk.com/entries/21943338-nook-developer-start-up-guide#_Sideloading
So I go to section 4.0, and just after the "Quick tip" explaining to enable the ABD settings it tells me before I start putting in commands that I need to set the path variable. I follow the hyper link at the end of that sentence that jumps me to another part of the page (2.5), which provides me a step by step list on what to do. I just lack the knowledge on how to use the list and thats where I am asking for help.
Step 2 is what confuses me. It says to "Change directory to where you unzipped the Android SDK zip file, and then change directory to the tools directory."
Well I guess it all confuses me after that, it would be nice if someone could tell me what to type into the terminal in order to continue with the process.
Any advice would be helpful, especially if there is a better way to ask for help or advice on something like this. All feedback will be appreciated.
You do not need to do all that and you do not need to root to sideload apks. Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature and make a CWM SD and flash my extras zip. That enables stock to install apks from unknown sources.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
You do not need to do all that and you do not need to root to sideload apks. Go to my HD/HD+ CWM thread linked in my signature and make a CWM SD and flash my extras zip. That enables stock to install apks from unknown sources.
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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Click to collapse
Thank you so much, 1000 internets to you.