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Ok guys, as i'm browsing, I keep seeing the same questions over and over gain in different threads talking about Google Wallet. I want to put everything out here in one thread. Keep in mind i'm in the US, I know our foreign friends will be different as Google is still working on getting it working outside the US. So this guide is for you US peeps.
1.) Yes, GW works fine on rooted devices. A banner will show that your device is unsupported, and a warning may appear during checkout...ignore this. The app still works just fine. The reason it says "Unsupported Device" is because when you are rooted, there is a security risk for GW (just like there's one for you device as a whole).
2.) GW will not appear on the Play Store from your device. However, if you go to the Play Store on your computer, it will be there.
3.) You have heard there was an update that allowed you add all major credit cards, but you can't see how to update it. You have two options:
~a.) My most recommended option. Go to the Play website using your computer. Click on 'My Android Apps'. Choose the Asus Nexus 7. Scroll through the installed apps until you find "Wallet." Click it. Click on 'INSTALLED' and it will offer to send the update to you. Send it to your N7, you may need to be on wi-fi, I'm not sure about that. Now you'll have the other options for credit cards.
~b.) IF IF IF IF IF and ONLY IF the first option does not work, you can use the hacked apk found here. Just follow the instructions. Now if you are outside of the US, there are instructions in that thread for getting GW to work outside of the US. If you have issues, post them there so the developer can work on it. It is his apk, so he needs to know of issues, not me.
4.) You have added your credit/debit card. When you use GW, it will actually use your virtual master card that goes through Google, which will then debit from your actual card. What does this mean? It means that if you get any kind of rewards for using your card at certain places, you may not get those rewards or only part of them, as your billing statement will show that it was a Google purchase.
5.) No. You do NOT have to have a data or internet connection to use GW.
So there you have it. And just point out the most frequently asked questions: no data/internet required, works on rooted devices regardless of the warnings you see, only shows up in the Play Store on your computer browser. There, those have been repeated twice, so you should not be asking anymore
That's awesome. I'd added a card online, deleted an old one, but the damned app on my N7 just showed a Citi card, and no option to update. I felt retarded... I'm glad this is finally set up. Thanks.
My N7 is rooted. I've installed the latest wallet and I've entered one of my credit cards. When I did that I got an email from google stating that my wallet was set up and ready to go. To test it I should open wallet and tap my card to authorize its use. It doesn't matter how much I tap, touch, or rub the card on the N7 it doesn't appear that it is reading my card.
Is it working properly? I'd kinda like to test it out before I actually take it in someplace and try to use it.
ba_hamilton said:
My N7 is rooted. I've installed the latest wallet and I've entered one of my credit cards. When I did that I got an email from google stating that my wallet was set up and ready to go. To test it I should open wallet and tap my card to authorize its use. It doesn't matter how much I tap, touch, or rub the card on the N7 it doesn't appear that it is reading my card.
Is it working properly? I'd kinda like to test it out before I actually take it in someplace and try to use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is your card a paypass card? Never seen it ask to tap the card to the phone. Not sure why it would, frankly.
I was about to say the same thing. You can't tap just any ole card. Doesn't work that way. The card needs to have an RFID chip in it, or some sort of NFC chip. Someone correct me if i'm wrong.
Installed yesterday from the link that was posted and this is what I get.
Thoughts?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
I am not rooted and I tried it at a Walgreens, but it didn't do anything. Can someone explain in elementary steps how it actually works when using it at a store? I just figured I had to have a data connection and that is why it didn't work, but this guide says otherwise.
Thanks for your help!
First, download the PayPass locator to find which stores near you actually have a console that is compatible with the device. Some Walgreens DO NOT have the mastercard paypass system. They have some other kind of technology. I tried at a walgreens by my place and felt foolish when the girl just looked at me weird.
You can use this at ALL McDonald's. Go there and order something. Turn your device on. Make sure NFC is enabled in the settings. You don't need to have wallet open already, but it would speed up the process. If you don't have it open, but with the phone screen turned on, rest the back of the device to the paypass surface. They need to be physically touching. You may need to move the device around just a bit. You will hear a ringing noise, and then google wallet will be active. It will ask you to type in your PIN and the press the device to the surface to complete the transaction. Sometimes you have to tell the person at the cash register that you are paying with credit. Once you tap it a second time to the surface of the paypass thing, it will say transaction complete.
NOW, sometimes it doesn't work 100% flawlessly. SOMETIMES you have to tap the device to the pad over and over again. Or move it around on top of the pad until it goes through. And sometimes, even tho it goes through on the end of the cash register, the device still tells you that the transaction may not have gone through. If the person smiles at you and gives you your receipt, it went through just fine. But the device will ask you to tap the paypass pad again. Just take the receipt and wink at the person if they are cute because they have never seen it before and they are probably blown away by it.
Oh, and even though people say that you don't need a data connection to use it, I have always been connected via wifi to my phone or the wifi at the restaurant when I use it.
One more question, I am getting annoyed by the "you need flash blah blah blah", so I am going to root.
In the past I thought I saw articles saying something about resetting google wallet before you root or it messes it up, but when I go into Wallet to reset it - I don't see that option.
Is this something that is still required? If so, what are the steps?
I was under the impression that you don't need a wi-fi connection to complete a transaction at a PayPass terminal. Has anyone used it successfully knowing there was no wi-fi connection?
Heaterz16 said:
One more question, I am getting annoyed by the "you need flash blah blah blah", so I am going to root.
In the past I thought I saw articles saying something about resetting google wallet before you root or it messes it up, but when I go into Wallet to reset it - I don't see that option.
Is this something that is still required? If so, what are the steps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From Google wallet, go into the menu from the google wallet home screen. The three dots up in the right hand corner. Then settings. Then reset google wallet.
You do not need a wifi / data connection ! How many times does this need to be stated?!
Groid said:
I was under the impression that you don't need a wi-fi connection to complete a transaction at a PayPass terminal. Has anyone used it successfully knowing there was no wi-fi connection?
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Click to collapse
.....................really dude? Did you read the whole thing? I even said it twice. Let me quote myself:
5.) No. You do NOT have to have a data or internet connection to use GW.
So there you have it. And just to point out the most frequently asked questions: no data/internet required, works on rooted devices regardless of the warnings you see, only shows up in the Play Store on your computer browser. There, those have been repeated twice, so you should not be asking anymore
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See? I put it in there twice. I'm not trying to be a jerk, I just have little patience for people who don't read and ask questions that were already answered. Hope the bluntness gets the point across so this doesn't happen in the future, that's all.
adamhlj said:
From Google wallet, go into the menu from the google wallet home screen. The three dots up in the right hand corner. Then settings. Then reset google wallet.
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Click to collapse
I can't believe I didn't see that until now, I tried that about 4 times using the menu button but it never had the settings option....before I realized I was within a card which didn't have that option. I had to hit the back button twice to get to the "homepage" of the app, then I saw the settings, reset option...
Thanks!
Thanks OP. Your method of updating the app worked flawlessly for me. Now I added another card. Can't wait to try this out.
Quick question: lets say I get a galaxy S3, it has Google wallet on it or I install it(I believe that device has nfc also, all I would have to do is sign in and data transfer KR copies to new device? Or will I have to set THST device up all over again ?
Here's an odd question:
Let's say you're at the end of your funds on your debit card, and you don't want to charge the whole amount on your (different)credit card. Is there a way to use Google Wallet to pay out the last of the debit card's funds, THEN cover the balance of the purchase with the credit card?
matrix0886 said:
~b.) IF IF IF IF IF and ONLY IF the first option does not work, you can use the hacked apk found here. Just follow the instructions. Now if you are outside of the US, there are instructions in that thread for getting GW to work outside of the US. If you have issues, post them there so the developer can work on it. It is his apk, so he needs to know of issues, not me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm running Team EOS Rom build 19.
Nothing else would work for me, so I did this method.
I have tried installing it by just tapping the apk and I have also put the apk in /system/apps and set permissions. No matter how I do it, I always get this.
Any thoughts?
I can verify that this works when rooted on the stock ROM AND WITHOUT INTERNET CONNECTION. When I have used it on my Nexus 7, I have had the app open as it will ask you to put in your PIN number on the device.
Few things to make sure you have done before scanning. Make sure you have a card selected before hand WHICH DOES REQUIRE INTERNET CONNECTION. I have tried to scan my Nexus 7 and Galaxy S III without a card selected (although I'm not sure why the card was deselected) and neither would work.
When you scan the device at the NFC point of sale, make sure you center the "U" in "Nexus" on the back of your device over the scanning area (this is according to the instruction manual on the device). You can test this for yourself if you have another NFC capable device, using Android Beam. You will find that the scanning range of the NFC is very specific on both devices.
Sometimes, it will take a little bit of time for the device to be scanned and for the transaction to be completed. You will hear a sound from your device indicating that the NFC has been scanned, after which the Google Wallet app will pop up prompting you to put in your PIN or that the transaction has been completed, showing you a receipt.
matrix0886 said:
.....................really dude? Did you read the whole thing? I even said it twice. Let me quote myself:
See? I put it in there twice. I'm not trying to be a jerk, I just have little patience for people who don't read and ask questions that were already answered. Hope the bluntness gets the point across so this doesn't happen in the future, that's all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read the OP entirely and thought, hooray! In post 7 someone said his didn't work and questioned the data connection. Post 8 said he was successful and stated he had a wi-fi connection with his phone at the time. No one before my post had verified wi-fi or data was not needed except the OP. Trust, but verify. I just wanted one other person to say it worked.
Just curious if there was a way to reload the virtual card without having another credit/debit card added as an available card in GW? Is there a phone number or website where we could add funds, so the virtual card is the only card listed in GW?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
In case you didn't know, Google has silently implemented FREE tracking for almost all androids. It also allows you to erase the phone if you feel that it's necessary, all you have to do is enable it as a device admin. I realize there have been apps on the market for a long time now that do this (and more) however Google doesn't require you to install or update any apps to use this service and from my brief testing it seems to work amazingly well right off the bat.
Go here and bookmark: https://www.google.com/android/devicemanager
it's about time they did this. i've hated having to install lookout or avast for decent location and remote wipe. now, that is more. further proof why you don't need an AV on your phone.
The only thing missing that I would like to see in future updates would be the ability to remotely lock the device so that a thief would have a harder time fooling around with the phone before you can track it. I've been using Where's My Droid for a long time but it lost the web interface tracking a while ago and that's been a bummer.
Is there any way to uninstall this useless feature? I never use GPS in my phone (because of the horrible reception, also because I am able to navigate without it), and also do not lose it.
Also, I already encrypted my device, so people can't do anything with it when they find it.
Also, whilst I am at it, I really do not like the way google forces their "content" down the wide opened throat of the community. I did not like the way they went with google services framework, and how you can't do jack sh*t without it, and I do not like the updates and "progression" they make.
Soo, any idea on how to get that off my phone?
Cheers!
PS: Everything I wrote is my own opinion, and if yours differs, at least RESPECT mine. If not, I could not care less about yours and do not get upset if I make fun of it. (Just in case some fanboy tries to attack me )
IRKONIK said:
Is there any way to uninstall this useless feature? I never use GPS in my phone (because of the horrible reception, also because I am able to navigate without it), and also do not lose it.
Also, I already encrypted my device, so people can't do anything with it when they find it.
Also, whilst I am at it, I really do not like the way google forces their "content" down the wide opened throat of the community. I did not like the way they went with google services framework, and how you can't do jack sh*t without it, and I do not like the updates and "progression" they make.
Soo, any idea on how to get that off my phone?
Cheers!
PS: Everything I wrote is my own opinion, and if yours differs, at least RESPECT mine. If not, I could not care less about yours and do not get upset if I make fun of it. (Just in case some fanboy tries to attack me )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can disable the google play services in a custom ROM (i think it's built-in to android 4.2.2) but it'll break the YouTube app, and as you said, you're limited without it. as far as like older ROMs go (ICS, GB, etc.), the app isn't built-in and you can uninstall it.
I personally find google play services somewhat useful (especially now with the ADM), and i use YouTube occasionally so i need it for that, but we all have our own opinions, as you said, and I'd personally like to keep things civil.
and if you hate the services that much, you can actually reflash the ROM you're using without Gapps. it will be a limited experience, but the Play Services won't be there
IRKONIK said:
Is there any way to uninstall this useless feature? I never use GPS in my phone (because of the horrible reception, also because I am able to navigate without it), and also do not lose it.
Also, I already encrypted my device, so people can't do anything with it when they find it.
Also, whilst I am at it, I really do not like the way google forces their "content" down the wide opened throat of the community. I did not like the way they went with google services framework, and how you can't do jack sh*t without it, and I do not like the updates and "progression" they make.
Soo, any idea on how to get that off my phone?
Cheers!
PS: Everything I wrote is my own opinion, and if yours differs, at least RESPECT mine. If not, I could not care less about yours and do not get upset if I make fun of it. (Just in case some fanboy tries to attack me )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Other than what was already said I don't think there's a way to remove it, but just look at it this way... it doesn't take up any space and won't just activate by itself, so it's really not inconveniencing you in any way. I understand you don't want to be force-fed features that you don't want, and I absolutely respect that, but for many (myself included) this was a long overdue feature that will no doubt help many many users. This kinda stuff comes with the territory of owning a 'connected' device like a smartphone, so if you really want to get off the grid, just go back to a dumb-phone (yes they still exist).
Sorry for the "rant", but these updates cost me money, since I don't have a flatrare on my phone. (And Android OS still uses my data, whilst I have it turned off. Which is strange)
I actually do own "a few" dumb phones, one for calling, one for getting called, one for SMS.
So I am off grid, at least a little bit.
I actually never understood that feature. As I stated above, I am not the kind of person that loses stuff (OK, maybe sometimes my manners ) nor did I ever had something stolen from me. People tried, but never succeeded.
I am looking forward to Replicant, so I can finally shove my middle finger up Googles fat back-ends (of the wafer. Also it is somehow connected to the fat file system. Not what you thought )
Some day.. Soon.
IRKONIK said:
Sorry for the "rant", but these updates cost me money, since I don't have a flatrare on my phone. (And Android OS still uses my data, whilst I have it turned off. Which is strange)
I actually do own "a few" dumb phones, one for calling, one for getting called, one for SMS.
So I am off grid, at least a little bit.
I actually never understood that feature. As I stated above, I am not the kind of person that loses stuff (OK, maybe sometimes my manners ) nor did I ever had something stolen from me. People tried, but never succeeded.
I am looking forward to Replicant, so I can finally shove my middle finger up Googles fat back-ends (of the wafer. Also it is somehow connected to the fat file system. Not what you thought )
Some day.. Soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Replicant is available for the galaxysmtd (international galaxy s). it's not fully functional though, because there aren't a ton of open-source libraries and drivers available. if you want replicant on this phone, you gotta learn how to code, and how to build from source.
supernexus is kinda like replicant except it uses a lot of closed-source libraries that make things work. as i said, just don't flash the google apps package. it's basically a clone of the Nexus firmware, as you get all the AOSP components, nothing more or less. oh and also, very minimal google integration without Gapps
How does it work
So does Android Device Manager track the phone or tablet by the hardware signature or by Google account? I ask because I lost my Nexus 7 last Monday and immediately changed my Google Account password. Now when I try to track the Nexus 7 using Android Device Manager it shows that it has not been used since last Monday.
Capt-Capsaicin said:
So does Android Device Manager track the phone or tablet by the hardware signature or by Google account? I ask because I lost my Nexus 7 last Monday and immediately changed my Google Account password. Now when I try to track the Nexus 7 using Android Device Manager it shows that it has not been used since last Monday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hardware i reckon, when i used this it let's me choose which device I've used with my Google account. It sees phone as different again when I've flashed a new ROM.
Crawshayi said:
In case you didn't know, Google has silently implemented FREE tracking for almost all androids. It also allows you to erase the phone if you feel that it's necessary, all you have to do is enable it as a device admin. I realize there have been apps on the market for a long time now that do this (and more) however Google doesn't require you to install or update any apps to use this service and from my brief testing it seems to work amazingly well right off the bat.
Go here and bookmark: https://www.google.com/android/devicemanager
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CM Team Announces CyanogenMod Account For Remote Device Wipe/Tracking, Dual-Release Branches For Better Security
Posted by Ryan Whitwam in News
http://www.androidpolice.com/2013/0...ng-dual-release-branches-for-better-security/
CM guys still finding ways to 1-up google android :silly:
.
I have googled but haven't found answer:
With the use of Magisk one can root his device and yet use Android Pay
but what risks for the user to have his money used by a thief in possession of his rooted smartphone?
You can remotely wipe the device via Android Device Manager..
But no chance that my Android Pay is used before I wipe the device?
EMJI79 said:
But no chance that my Android Pay is used before I wipe the device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What if you removed the card that has been setup from Google Wallet Website?
EMJI79 said:
but what risks for the user to have his money used by a thief in possession of his rooted smartphone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The exact same as a thief in possession of an unrooted phone. The Android Pay root prohibition is a precaution against software security breaches, not physical theft of the phone.
kartikb said:
What if you removed the card that has been setup from Google Wallet Website?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't understand you?
I am worrying that the thief or the people who finds my smartphone uses it before I can wipe the phone.
I rather have it impossible to use my android pay.
I was wondering if Google tried to unable android pay on a rooted phone because it would be too easy for someone else to exploit it.
EMJI79 said:
I don't understand you?
I am worrying that the thief or the people who finds my smartphone uses it before I can wipe the phone.
I rather have it impossible to use my android pay.
I was wondering if Google tried to unable android pay on a rooted phone because it would be too easy for someone else to exploit it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A thief that steals you phone will have the same access as one that steals an unrooted phone.
You need to physically secure your device. This is no different that a bad guy getting hold of your credit card.
This is exactly why a password is required to unlock the phone.
A rooted phone may have data compromised by an application if you grant it root.
This is the issue.
I grant permissions mainly to Titanium Backup and AdAway.
My concern was that someone could use my Android Pay by plugging it to its computer and knowing a little bit of computing.
It seems it isn't the case so I think I'll root the next smartphone I am receiving in a few days.
I also use root to install apps for changing build.prop or dpi/font, if I follow what you say, by denying cellular and wifi access to these apps, I should be safe, right?
I do believe that NFC control and internet access are two separate permission,and so does the process. Since NFC can work without a SIM,and run on it's own piece of hardware,we can assume that NFC and phone's radio signal have almost nothing to do with one another.All of your credit card information would actually be storred on the NFC hardware encrypted rather than your phone's system. Evidently by the fact that banks and phone companies have been offering NFC stick on accessories for unsupported smartphone.The app only act as a terminal to let you control your NFC hardware.
So in short,NFC is much safer than a normal credit card, information stored by NFC can't be access by any level of phone system access.But a rooted phone might allow others to bypass your screen lock and turn on your NFC.
P/s: build.prop can be edited as easily as using a file manager with root access.Or if you're that lazy just find a zip file and flash it.Any build.prop editing app are essentially scam!!
Along with my regular bank account, I use Simple bank. Simple bank is the only card I use in Android Pay.
Their Android app allows you to block and unblock your card instantly. So I'll keep the card blocked all day everyday until I'm about to use it at a terminal/online/ATM to make a purchase. Once it goes through I block it again immediately. If someone gets ahold of my phone when I don't notice, they can try to use Android Pay, but it won't work since I keep it blocked. See? The only real scenario they could get around that is if they steal my phone out of my hands while I'm in line at a store with security cameras, right after I unblock it. In that situation though, I'd just take out my Nexus 5 (main phone is Nexus 6P) and block it on that since I have it installed on both. Any attempted purchases while blocked will be declined. I also like this method because if my card gets skimmed at an ATM / gas station, I'll see declined purchases on the card without actually losing any money. Then I can just report it as stolen / skimmed and have it deactivated and sent a new one.
Here's a link to the bank app if you want to look into it. You apply right from the app and get an account setup (if approved) within a few business days;
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.banksimple
I should also note that they only recently (less than a week) started supporting Android Pay. They use a partner bank to back them. It used to be Bancorp, but they switched to BBVA Compass. You'll need the BBVA backing bank to use AP. Bancorp is not supported. I believe they switched everyone to the new partner bank & all new customers use them as well, but it might be worth it to look into their support site or call them yourself to be sure.
Magisk is not altering system partition
So your apps actually can't be tampered and people can't get info from apps. The main issue in rooted devices people can get the information stored in app's private database and preferences so what actually Magisk is doing moving or helping the banking apps or apps those need to be run to a more safe place that is safe from outside activities.
First, I'm just in shock t here's a phone that can't be rooted. It just blows my mind and really, I'm saddened by it. It totally defeats the original idea behind Android - a device that people can root, voiding their warranty, develop - A lot of Amateur dev'd features have been incorporated into Android as it's grown over the years, and modify. Even the Judicial system said end users have the right to do what they want to their device and void the warranty at their own discretion.
However, even if it does ever actually come out and even if VZW DOES carry it and even if I could afford it, which I doubt, I really like th Z force, from what I've seen and read.
So how are you guys who have always used rooted, mod'd devices living without root??
I guess I can learn to give up most of my root required apps, begrudgingly, but TB?? How could I ever transfer my apps and data (MUST have data transferred too) without root??
What about bloatware? It's like giving up sex for me to give up root. Aaaauuuggghhhhh
HipKat said:
First, I'm just in shock t here's a phone that can't be rooted. It just blows my mind and really, I'm saddened by it. It totally defeats the original idea behind Android - a device that people can root, voiding their warranty, develop - A lot of Amateur dev'd features have been incorporated into Android as it's grown over the years, and modify. Even the Judicial system said end users have the right to do what they want to their device and void the warranty at their own discretion.
However, even if it does ever actually come out and even if VZW DOES carry it and even if I could afford it, which I doubt, I really like th Z force, from what I've seen and read.
So how are you guys who have always used rooted, mod'd devices living without root??
I guess I can learn to give up most of my root required apps, begrudgingly, but TB?? How could I ever transfer my apps and data (MUST have data transferred too) without root??
What about bloatware? It's like giving up sex for me to give up root. Aaaauuuggghhhhh
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's several Android devices that cannot be rooted, certainly ones designed for Verizon (Droids)
Sent from my Moto Razr M using Tapatalk
sd_shadow said:
There's several Android devices that cannot be rooted, certainly ones designed for Verizon (Droids)
Sent from my Moto Razr M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True that, but I'm not interested in those lol
HipKat said:
True that, but I'm not interested in those lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well for me the biggest difference is I used to use Playstation controllers, so I had to switch to a gamesir g3s which is the same size and shape but does not require root. Nothing else I do requires root so Im perfectly fine not having it. I miss mhl far more than root since I used it a lot with a bluetooth keyboard and mouse with chrome remote desktop, but I bought a laptop to eliminate that.
I'm really missing the following apps:
Titanium Backup
Ad Blockers that actually work well (AdAway, MinMinGuard, UnbelovedHosts)
Viper4Android
File Browsers that can access the entire filesystem (allowing me to debloat stock apps, among other things).
I can partially work around the ad blockers thing by spending a few extra bucks to purchase some apps that I don't use often enough to have already warranted a purchase, and using DNS66 for non-secure uses (a less than optimal solution, since I can't trust some random server on the internet which could theoretically hit me with a MITM attack...I turn it off whenever security is a concern).
There really is no good workaround for TiBu, V4A, or root file explorers.
But the benefits are that I can now use Android Pay, and don't need to fight with SnapChat every time I need to log back in.
The negatives far outweigh the benefits, and I don't want to ever buy a non-rootable phone again. GFY Verizon.
sn00gan said:
I'm really missing the following apps:
Titanium Backup
Ad Blockers that actually work well (AdAway, MinMinGuard, UnbelovedHosts)
Viper4Android
File Browsers that can access the entire filesystem (allowing me to debloat stock apps, among other things).
I can partially work around the ad blockers thing by spending a few extra bucks to purchase some apps that I don't use often enough to have already warranted a purchase, and using DNS66 for non-secure uses (a less than optimal solution, since I can't trust some random server on the internet which could theoretically hit me with a MITM attack...I turn it off whenever security is a concern).
There really is no good workaround for TiBu, V4A, or root file explorers.
But the benefits are that I can now use Android Pay, and don't need to fight with SnapChat every time I need to log back in.
The negatives far outweigh the benefits, and I don't want to ever buy a non-rootable phone again. GFY Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I wanted to hear. Guess I'll have to pass on this one. No Backup, or V4A is not acceptable for me
The only complaint that I have is that some of the pre-installed apps are not able to be uninstalled. theres 4? or so that I can't get rid of
This is my first non-rootable phone and I have mixed feelings about that. As a stock platform, the Z Force is a great phone and does almost all that I could ask for from a pocket computer. I love having stock Android and like having WiFi calling, though it's a pain to switch back and forth: go into airplane mode, then switch WiFi on to make WiFi calls. Of course, you have to remember to turn airplane mode off when you get back into service.
I also miss Titanium Backup and the ability to completely remove apps I have no interest in having on my phone. All things being equal, I find that I can live without root on this phone. Battery life is great, it's fast, and it gets frequent and regular updates.
Really, no root?
So I just as well stay with my old rooted Droid Turbo. I came here thinking its time I look for a newer Motorola phone, that I can root.
What if I buy an unlocked Z Force? Can it be rooted then?
It seems that the regular Moto Z can be rooted according to this thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-z/how-to/guide-how-to-root-moto-z-supersu-t3551113
So why can the Force not also be rooted?
Stuck with VZW Malware
I'd like to add to my original list of complaints about not having root.
The topic: AppFlash
Verizon now pushes the AppFlash malware onto every Android device. Without root, it can not be removed properly. I tried to disable the app via Settings, and it "uninstalled" an "update" so now AppFlash doesn't appear in the Apps list, but I still get messages that "AppFlash has crashed" multiple times per day. I work in an area with minimal cell service and no GPS service, and I strongly supect that it's AppFlash that's trying to spy on me, which is causing my phone to be constantly seeking location via GPS and draining my battery. It's only the last month or two that I've noticed it being this bad, and that does seem to correspond with the time that people started reporting the latest wave of AppFlash installations.
Make no bones about it, this is spyware, pushed by Verizon, that tracks your location, calls home to report everything ELSE they've spied on you as well, drains battery rapidly, and can not be removed!
This was the final straw, Verizon. I'm going to move back to iPhone (at least VZW can't crap up iOS too badly, like they can with Android) and then convince my wife to finally fire those VZW bums and switch to T-Mobile or Google Fi.
sn00gan said:
I'd like to add to my original list of complaints about not having root.
The topic: AppFlash
Verizon now pushes the AppFlash malware onto every Android device. Without root, it can not be removed properly. I tried to disable the app via Settings, and it "uninstalled" an "update" so now AppFlash doesn't appear in the Apps list, but I still get messages that "AppFlash has crashed" multiple times per day. I work in an area with minimal cell service and no GPS service, and I strongly supect that it's AppFlash that's trying to spy on me, which is causing my phone to be constantly seeking location via GPS and draining my battery. It's only the last month or two that I've noticed it being this bad, and that does seem to correspond with the time that people started reporting the latest wave of AppFlash installations.
Make no bones about it, this is spyware, pushed by Verizon, that tracks your location, calls home to report everything ELSE they've spied on you as well, drains battery rapidly, and can not be removed!
This was the final straw, Verizon. I'm going to move back to iPhone (at least VZW can't crap up iOS too badly, like they can with Android) and then convince my wife to finally fire those VZW bums and switch to T-Mobile or Google Fi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is the iPhone working out on Fi?
htcSlide said:
How is the iPhone working out on Fi?
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Click to collapse
Haha, I know, right? Reading comprehension can be hard.
As I said, my plan was to FIRST move back to an iPhone, THEN switch to T-Mobile OR Google Fi (the implication being, that when changing networks, one must obviously either have or obtain compatible hardware). Unfortunately, in my area only VZW has reliable 4G coverage without dead zones in the places where we need service the most. The wife has put her foot down about switching networks for the time being.
At least my iPhone, while older, still has the most recent version of iOS and is unencumbered by Verizon's malware. It's a reasonable compromise at the moment.
Since Z Force seems to be non-rootable, does it mean that camera2 api support level on the phone cannot be improved?
Or is there any way to enable Camera2 API Without Root on this phone?
also, can someone PLEASE help me on this QUERY...
What is Camera2 API support level on Moto Z FORCE
https://forum.xda-developers.com/z-force/themes/camera2-api-support-level-moto-z-force-t3863829
Its so sad not to have root on a very capable device like the Z force
Amazon descriptions clearly state no fingerprint function. Is this accurate?
TIA!
@OldSkewler
Nope, it's on the power button.
For the future, I suggest using better information-sources about those devices, like gsmarena or the official Sony device page.
That is, if actually mean the XZ1c, since there's no ZX1 .
Amazon seller, listed as "Sony", clearly states no fingerprinting hence my question.
Any chance they offer a version without fingerprinting feature? I remember when I bought my Z5C that one of the versions didn't offer this feature.
Due to some licensing issues, sony-devices come without fingerprint capability in the US. This is however done software-side, so flashing a firmware from somwehere else than the US will enable the fingerprint reader. This may be the reason for the conflicting statements on Amazon. If the fingerprint reader is enabled, it has to be activated in settings, so you can chose to no use it.
American here. I got one from Amazon and flashed the Central Europe firmware to enable the fingerprint sensor. First phone I got with a biometric sensor!
Interesting.
First I was under the impression these Sony devices were pretty locked and hard to crack, I think this was the case back in 2015. Or maybe there are different levels of "cracking" and firmware updating is fairly simple? I am relatively new to this sort of thing.
Second, I also bought my Z5C from Amazon and fingerprinting was functioning off the box, no issues or need to change firmware.
Perhaps would be easier to purchase on eBay.
It's entirely possible that you bought the international version of the phone instead of the US version. I used the NewFlasher guide in order to get the fingerprint scanner working. I'm on T-Mobile with a European firmware so I don't have wi-fi calling, but I live in Silicon Valley so there's hardly any shortage of good signal for me.
OldSkewler said:
First I was under the impression these Sony devices were pretty locked and hard to crack, I think this was the case back in 2015. Or maybe there are different levels of "cracking" and firmware updating is fairly simple? I am relatively new to this sort of thing.
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Click to collapse
The fingerprint feature is probably the only function that is disabled on an extremely high software level for the sole purpose of being able to officially sell in the US.
Otherwise, your impression of Sony phones is generally correct - while also incorrect at the same time.
Specifically, you'd be right when things involve Sony DRM related stuff.
On the other hand, Sony opens up a lot of their phones for development and contribution to AOSP.
As long as you aren't fixated on retaining DRM locked features, it's actually pretty simple to unlock and mess around with Sony devices (that are on the list).
A bit different question about fingerprint reader. Time after time I get notice "device was locked by administrator" and I need to enter pin as it does not unlock with fingerprint? Is it possible to avoid and always be able to unlock with fingerprint?
martynas said:
A bit different question about fingerprint reader. Time after time I get notice "device was locked by administrator" and I need to enter pin as it does not unlock with fingerprint? Is it possible to avoid and always be able to unlock with fingerprint?
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Click to collapse
I'm guessing you have an app, which locks the screen - check in Settings > Lock screen & security > Device admin apps to see which apps have access to lock the screen, and then just go trial-and-error from there.
BetaLyte said:
I'm guessing you have an app, which locks the screen - check in Settings > Lock screen & security > Device admin apps to see which apps have access to lock the screen, and then just go trial-and-error from there.
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Click to collapse
Thanks! Will try. 2 apps find my device and email exchange. Exchange cannot deactivate. Will see if "find my device" will be enough...
martynas said:
Thanks! Will try. 2 apps find my device and email exchange. Exchange cannot deactivate. Will see if "find my device" will be enough...
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Nah, I don't think it's Find My Device. I was thinking it could be a lock screen app or a launcher, which could be the culprit, but it doesn't sound like you have any of those.
Exchange could cause this, if your work place has disabled the fingerprint reader as part of their security policy. You can press the icon, and see which policies are enforced. The only work around would be to use IMAP to fetch your mails instead. Or root your phone, and use an Xposed module to disable the security policy, but I wouldn't recommend it, as you would loose your DRM keys, and be left with a non-functional camera.
BetaLyte said:
Nah, I don't think it's Find My Device. I was thinking it could be a lock screen app or a launcher, which could be the culprit, but it doesn't sound like you have any of those.
Exchange could cause this, if your work place has disabled the fingerprint reader as part of their security policy. You can press the icon, and see which policies are enforced. The only work around would be to use IMAP to fetch your mails instead. Or root your phone, and use an Xposed module to disable the security policy, but I wouldn't recommend it, as you would loose your DRM keys, and be left with a non-functional camera.
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You are right - it was "power toggle" with screen lock option...
But it is still working quite strange. When I disabled power toggle to lock the screen, I actually do not need and fingerprint to unlock device. I can unlock simply by swipe. I thought fingerprint is instead of a pin, not instead of a swipe...
It is a bluetooth watch that is trusted device and does not require fingerprint to unlock...
martynas said:
Thanks! Will try. 2 apps find my device and email exchange. Exchange cannot deactivate. Will see if "find my device" will be enough...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eMail Exchange is the culprit.