Just tried out this app, good but not yet perfect
Google Gesture Search
Search your Android phone by drawing gestures on the touch screen.
Gesture Search lets you quickly find a contact, a bookmark, an application, or a music track on your device by drawing on the screen. Search results are updated as you add each letter or digit and becomes better by learning from your search history.
I've been using this on my other phones, but Play/Market won't let me select my tablet at install (i have an i815 verizon version).
I have a rooted Kindle Fire HD 8.9" running AWD-Launcher. The bottom of the screen still shows icons for search and favorites. Since I can't find any way to remove them, I'd like to at least make them useful.
For the search button, I'd like to make it launch something useful, e.g. Voice Search or maybe Dolphin Browser. The default Kindle search just isn't useful, especially given the way the web search forces you into Silk.
For the favorites button, I'm looking for an easier way to manage the entries than manually running the "Home" launcher and modifying it from there. I could actually live with that approach if it would allow me to add the Kindle reader from the Play store, but Home is set up to specifically not see that app.
Surely someone before me has been annoyed by having those vestigial buttons at the bottom! Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I have been annoyed by this ever since I installed nova. That I know of, or there is no way to edit the links. One approach, and however, I would be to use button saviour pro and get rid of the navbar completely. Search for button saviour in the kindle general topic. Hope this helps.
Sent from my KFTT using xda app-developers app
Thanks Katalystik! For the benefit of others, here is what I wound up doing:
I installed Button Savior Pro as you suggested, then I hid the stock keys by adding a line to /system/build.prop that read:
Code:
qemu.hw.mainkeys=1
(See http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2038452&nocache=1 for more detail)
This is even better than what I was hoping for, as it allows me to recover the full usable screen size.
There is a way to fix the search button, freeze the kindle unified search app if you have Google search properly installed it will use that.
For favorites... your guess is as good as mine.
Sent from my KFTT using Tapatalk HD
[Q] How to make search and favorites buttons useful? StatusBar+ - Custom Status Bar
Dr. Drax said:
I have a rooted Kindle Fire HD 8.9" running AWD-Launcher. The bottom of the screen still shows icons for search and favorites. Since I can't find any way to remove them, I'd like to at least make them useful.
For the search button, I'd like to make it launch something useful, e.g. Voice Search or maybe Dolphin Browser. The default Kindle search just isn't useful, especially given the way the web search forces you into Silk.
For the favorites button, I'm looking for an easier way to manage the entries than manually running the "Home" launcher and modifying it from there. I could actually live with that approach if it would allow me to add the Kindle reader from the Play store, but Home is set up to specifically not see that app.
Surely someone before me has been annoyed by having those vestigial buttons at the bottom! Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dr. Drax,
There is a way to make changes to the Kindle Status bars allowing you to customize to each button. Download and install these two packages on the Kindle:
1. StatusBar+ - Custom Status Bar
2. Smart Statusbar
If for some reason the changes are not as expected, move each package from /data/app to /system/app be sure to inspect the permissions: User Read Write Group: Read and Others: Read
Then to add full screen navigation to the Kindle, go to the build.prop file in /system/app and add to the end of the build.prop:
Code:
qemu.hw.mainkeys=1
Then reboot the Kindle.
I use apex instead of the samsung launcher which is faster and use less usage which i think is good for me. But i want set the long-press menu key to open google search and the samsung search ( which very ugly and useless) will open after the google search start up. I want to know how to disable or remove the samsung search.
Looking for the same answer. In the meantime I've just switched double tap on desktop to Google voice search (which isn't hijacked by s voice) and long menu to Google search. Using Nova launcher
Edit... Just realized even normal Google is hijacked too from menu key
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk 2
takki83 said:
I use apex instead of the samsung launcher which is faster and use less usage which i think is good for me. But i want set the long-press menu key to open google search and the samsung search ( which very ugly and useless) will open after the google search start up. I want to know how to disable or remove the samsung search.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disabled S Voice and all that other stuff, as well as in the voice search settings. Now when I hold the menu key for a short period Google Now pops up, but if I hold it longer S Finder pops up.
Hey all,
I'm coming from 2 previous Androids that had the 'Search' hardkey on the phone. I really liked it, esp when used in context in certain apps like Spotify (to filter in Spotify, seems like I have to scroll up 700 songs in my Playlist until the Filter area shows up instead of just pressing the Search key like how i did be4).
Is there any way that I can get rid of the 'Recent Apps' hardkey, and reroute it to 'Search'/Filter.
I see Turbo isn't rooted yet, so guessing I'd need a non-root app solution?
I think I tried one app 'All in One Gestures', and tried to re-route single or long tap on the 'Recent Apps' key to instead 'Search', but that didn't work way I expected it to (it only goes to the Google Now Search webpage, and not the context of pressing Search within an app [and not leaving the app]).
Any ideas?,
Arian
Thanks in advance
Almost positive this cant be done without root.
Darn, I'd also settle for an app that does gestures... so a gesture that triggers what the non-existent Search hardkey would have done. Not sure if thats possible without root.
I miss the search button too
I used to have the Evo 4G and loved the search button too. I was disappointed when (I believe) ICS phased it out and switched to the three button approach. While it won't search within apps, you can launch Google Now from anywhere by swiping up from the home button. In my experience, it's pretty finicky with the Turbo's capacitive buttons though.
Swipe Home Button
There's an app Called Swipe Home Button. It lets you do gestures to activate certain features. OP should look into it, it may be what you're looking for.
If you long press the home button, you'll get the Google search swiping up... Or what I use is nova launcher and a double tap gesture to search.
Hope this helps.
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?