Database Develop

[Challenge] Why is "because X phone won't work with Gear Manager" acceptable?

[Challenge] Why is "because X phone won't work with Gear Manager" acceptable?
I find this hard to believe and a slightly lazy answer to a common problem. There is obviously code in the APK that refuses to work on any non-Samsung device. Dozens of threads exist with people offering up the entire Gear APK catalog, some trying to get it to work on Nexus & and others.
fOmey and others have reverse engineered the entire ROM, but no one has figured out a way to "fix" one single app to allow it to work with all phones?
Is this not a work-in-progress somewhere? It's certainly not in any thread I have found.
What are the limitations to such a venture? Has it been tried? Is there a copyright issue? What reason has this not been attempted?
Our community has done some amazing things over the years and this site is the go-to place for rooting and hacking. There has to be one sole out there willing to give this a shot.
I am, by no means, a programmer or coder. I would take this up, but I do not have the skillset. Best I can do is go through XML files and the like hoping to find "if X=Z then A" and remove it.
Ultimately this would give us the missing companion to null_ that allows notifications and interactivity (i.e. Music player controls, etc)
So-- any takers?

I have a Nexus 5, even with the app fully running, I can only get the phone call part to work - talk/listen/incoming caller contact name
The way to get around unsupported device is with the GearManagerStub apk
I've had a bit of a search through most of the code, and from what I can tell all the apks are included so can only conclude there must be something in tw framework. Or I missed something...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2549058

Brendo said:
even with the app fully running, I can only get the phone call part to work - talk/listen/incoming caller contact name
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not helped by the app. I have mine tethered to an iPhone 3gs(not by choice) and it works fine with no software at all.

styz said:
This is not helped by the app. I have mine tethered to an iPhone 3gs(not by choice) and it works fine with no software at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To load the gear manager app, it is.. You simply connected your gear via bluetooth.
The gear manager app pushes notifications to the gear.
Without the GearManagerStub.apk it fails to load, its depends on this particular app.

It's pretty simple actually - and the same reason Sense doesn't run (well) on non-HTC devices. Samsung's got a huge proprietary framework on their phones that their proprietary apps expect to be in place and depend on. So plopping Gear Manager on a phone that doesn't have the expected underlying s/w causes it to fail or deliver bits and pieces of functionality. Someone could probably figure out which pieces of Samsung's framework need to be in place but if there are a ton of them adding useless bloat (outside the Gear functionality) wouldn't it be easier just to use the Gear with a Samsung phone? And the design point Samsung's chosen (dependency on proprietary Samsung code on the phone for the Gear to work) pretty much tells you that, at least for now, they are happy with restricting Gear sales to owners of Samsung devices. Hell, the SGS4 GPe doesn't even support the Gear.
Just a personal thought, at $299 (I know, it was 30% less at T-Mobile) the Gear's a questionable investment (AKA: a "play thing") as it is. Accepting that key features (of the few provided) are missing to get it to work on a non-Samsung phone seems like a great garage project but not a very good use of $299. Just my opinion of course.

BarryH_GEG said:
It's pretty simple actually - and the same reason Sense doesn't run (well) on non-HTC devices. Samsung's got a huge proprietary framework on their phones that their proprietary apps expect to be in place and depend on. So plopping Gear Manager on a phone that doesn't have the expected underlying s/w causes it to fail or deliver bits and pieces of functionality. Someone could probably figure out which pieces of Samsung's framework need to be in place but if there are a ton of them adding useless bloat (outside the Gear functionality) wouldn't it be easier just to use the Gear with a Samsung phone? And the design point Samsung's chosen (dependency on proprietary Samsung code on the phone for the Gear to work) pretty much tells you that, at least for now, they are happy with restricting Gear sales to owners of Samsung devices. Hell, the SGS4 GPe doesn't even support the Gear.
Just a personal thought, at $299 (I know, it was 30% less at T-Mobile) the Gear's a questionable investment (AKA: a "play thing") as it is. Accepting that key features (of the few provided) are missing to get it to work on a non-Samsung phone seems like a great garage project but not a very good use of $299. Just my opinion of course.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am purchasing home automation items and bluetooth adaptors for my vehicle so I don't think of this as a toy. I consider it a great step forward.

fOmey said:
...Without the GearManagerStub.apk it fails to load, its depends on this particular app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I installed the stub and the gearmanager apks and it still gave me a 'unsupported device' message. *sadface*

therealduckie said:
I am purchasing home automation items and bluetooth adaptors for my vehicle so I don't think of this as a toy. I consider it a great step forward.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just because you can doesn't mean you should. Why would an underpowered device with a 315mAh battery, 512MB of RAM, and a 1.63" display be the best "tool for the job" you described? Especially when it requires a host in near-by proximity for the majority of its functions? It's great what people are doing with the Gear outside the mission Samsung released it for but, like I said before, you're talking about parlor tricks more for sport than serving a function unachievable by better means; some of which are more practical. And if you're trying to use the Gear while driving, especially if you've shrunk the DPI with a launcher, good luck. It's hard enough using the basic functions and S Voice while driving without ending up in another lane. I'm not criticizing everyone's ingenuity and cleverness just pointing out how impractical some things can appear when you take in to account what the Gear really is; a shamefully low-spec, low functionality Android "phone" with a tiny screen that happens to have a wrist band.

BarryH_GEG said:
It's pretty simple actually - and the same reason Sense doesn't run (well) on non-HTC devices. Samsung's got a huge proprietary framework on their phones that their proprietary apps expect to be in place and depend on. So plopping Gear Manager on a phone that doesn't have the expected underlying s/w causes it to fail or deliver bits and pieces of functionality. Someone could probably figure out which pieces of Samsung's framework need to be in place but if there are a ton of them adding useless bloat (outside the Gear functionality) wouldn't it be easier just to use the Gear with a Samsung phone? And the design point Samsung's chosen (dependency on proprietary Samsung code on the phone for the Gear to work) pretty much tells you that, at least for now, they are happy with restricting Gear sales to owners of Samsung devices. Hell, the SGS4 GPe doesn't even support the Gear.
Just a personal thought, at $299 (I know, it was 30% less at T-Mobile) the Gear's a questionable investment (AKA: a "play thing") as it is. Accepting that key features (of the few provided) are missing to get it to work on a non-Samsung phone seems like a great garage project but not a very good use of $299. Just my opinion of course.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's why this is a challenge
Im intrigued.. I want to figure this out, I prefer to use AOSP. Iv been forced to go back to TouchWiz since owning a gear.
I might have to do some more digging around.

therealduckie said:
I installed the stub and the gearmanager apks and it still gave me a 'unsupported device' message. *sadface*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends how you do it? I moved the apk to system/app and then had to install it (so that it was in data/app as com.whatever as it looks for apk based on that name). May not need it in system app anymore
Which phone?
---------- Post added at 11:08 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:07 AM ----------
fOmey said:
That's why this is a challenge
Im intrigued.. I want to figure this out, I prefer to use AOSP. Iv been forced to go back to TouchWiz since owning a gear.
I might have to do some more digging around.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know how much touchwiz is in google edition roms? Does gear fully work with ge roms?

Brendo said:
Depends how you do it? I moved the apk to system/app and then had to install it (so that it was in data/app as com.whatever as it looks for apk based on that name). May not need it in system app anymore
Which phone?
---------- Post added at 11:08 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:07 AM ----------
Do you know how much touchwiz is in google edition roms? Does gear fully work with ge roms?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sadly I was able to test extensively using GE, although I did find all the initial APK's installed & completed successfully.
I didn't get a chance to pair up completely, the base keeps randomly rebooting (nothing related to the gear). This could be due a modified gearmanagerstub.apk on the GE base, I'm not entirely sure.
I could easily upload a version of the stub APK, you can give it a go on your nexus ?
EDIT: GearManagerStub.apk : From KitKat Google Edition (i9505) & (Uninstall existing GearManager.apk before testing).

BarryH_GEG said:
Just because you can doesn't mean you should. Why would an underpowered device with a 315mAh battery, 512MB of RAM, and a 1.63" display be the best "tool for the job" you described? Especially when it requires a host in near-by proximity for the majority of its functions? It's great what people are doing with the Gear outside the mission Samsung released it for but, like I said before, you're talking about parlor tricks more for sport than serving a function unachievable by better means; some of which are more practical. And if you're trying to use the Gear while driving, especially if you've shrunk the DPI with a launcher, good luck. It's hard enough using the basic functions and S Voice while driving without ending up in another lane. I'm not criticizing everyone's ingenuity and cleverness just pointing out how impractical some things can appear when you take in to account what the Gear really is; a shamefully low-spec, low functionality Android "phone" with a tiny screen that happens to have a wrist band.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gear, with null_, requires no host. It can also connect to bluetooth enabled devices other than a phone.
I was motivated but this: http://daisyworks.net/btgarage.html
It's brilliant and exactly what i have needed for years.
Other interesting links:
http://www.smarthome.com/android_apps.html
http://www.instructables.com/id/Home-Automation-using-Arduino-Android-Phone/
Fact is, this is not a toy when something like null_ is used. It offers a great deal more functionality in a much smaller and more portable/handy package.
Your bias against the device is obvious so it begs the question: why are you here? Just to raise your post count and stir drama in an otherwise peaceful sub-group? Or, do you own it and you are so disappointed that you refuse to see its potential?
Either way, your negativity will not sway me or change my mind. I know it has potential and I plan to use it fully. The fact that it has a wristband is a feature and a plus.
Oh, and I don't consider something that has multiple times the computing power of the original Apollo moon landings "low specs". <3

fOmey said:
To load the gear manager app, it is.. You simply connected your gear via bluetooth.
The gear manager app pushes notifications to the gear.
Without the GearManagerStub.apk it fails to load, its depends on this particular app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe i wasn't clear in my post. I was responding to the phone call portion of the gear. Even without the software installed it still allows the phone calls to be taken and shows the contact information on the watch just like it did on the g4s with the app. All i was saying is that he commented that he was only able to get the phone portion working with the app and i was explaining that you can do that without the app.

fOmey said:
EDIT: GearManagerStub.apk : From KitKat Google Edition (i9505) & (Uninstall existing GearManager.apk before testing).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried it. Same result. 2 gear manager apps still refuse to install - music and weather (I believe because they reply on specific apps?). Nfc setup connection still works. App still works, but no details get sent to watch. Perhaps tw framework hooks in and serves data to gearmanagerstub, then stub sends to manager, which sends to watch?
---------- Post added at 11:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:47 AM ----------
styz said:
Maybe i wasn't clear in my post. I was responding to the phone call portion of the gear. Even without the software installed it still allows the phone calls to be taken and shows the contact information on the watch just like it did on the g4s with the app. All i was saying is that he commented that he was only able to get the phone portion working with the app and i was explaining that you can do that without the app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, from what I understand, the Bluetooth headset part is the only 'generic' part of the watch. It receives data just like a car headset when it displays contact info etc

Just installed that STUB with both the 1.5 and 1.2 GM and both still showed me a 'device not supported" error message.
I spent about 2 hours with Samsung one night and they told me it had to do with baseband version...or that mine was a 4.1 baseband (even though I am running CM 10.2 with 4.3 OS).
Perhaps there is a lockout on older baseband versions?
This is an SG3 phone, by the way.

therealduckie said:
Just installed that STUB with both the 1.5 and 1.2 GM and both still showed me a 'device not supported" error message.
I spent about 2 hours with Samsung one night and they told me it had to do with baseband version...or that mine was a 4.1 baseband (even though I am running CM 10.2 with 4.3 OS).
Perhaps there is a lockout on older baseband versions?
This is an SG3 phone, by the way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you install? Try deleting; move to system/app; installing from system/app

Brendo said:
How did you install? Try deleting; move to system/app; installing from system/app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I should have been more clear...
I installed them both fine. It's when i try to pair the Gear that I get that message.

therealduckie said:
Sorry, I should have been more clear...
I installed them both fine. It's when i try to pair the Gear that I get that message.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you delete the touchwiz launcher off your gear ? That will cause a unsupported device error also.. learnt this the hard way !
Brendo said:
Tried it. Same result. 2 gear manager apps still refuse to install - music and weather (I believe because they reply on specific apps?). Nfc setup connection still works. App still works, but no details get sent to watch. Perhaps tw framework hooks in and serves data to gearmanagerstub, then stub sends to manager, which sends to watch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can narrow down which two of those APK's dont install, I can try figure out why.. First step on getting this working is simply identifying what exactly is not working and why.
Once we can get gearmanager running on other branded phones, I'm confident the notifications may work.. or atleast the "more notifications".

fOmey said:
Did you delete the touchwiz launcher off your gear ? That will cause a unsupported device error also.. learnt this the hard way !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm using Nova Launcher as my launcher on my phone. TouchWiz doesn't even load on boot, that I am aware of.

fOmey said:
Did you delete the touchwiz launcher off your gear ? That will cause a unsupported device error also.. learnt this the hard way !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? I still have tw on my gear :s
If you can narrow down which two of those APK's dont install, I can try figure out why.. First step on getting this working is simply identifying what exactly is not working and why.
Once we can get gearmanager running on other branded phones, I'm confident the notifications may work.. or atleast the "more notifications".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still have to install all the extra apks manually
- SAMusicProvider_signed.apk
- SAWeatherProvider_signed.apk

Gear VR Cardboard *ROOT*

*** ROOT and Gear VR compatible phone required ***
Simply switch between Gear VR and Cardboard Mode.
- Activates or deactivates the Gear VR Service which triggers the Oculus Home auto-start on the Gear VR when plugged in - use the Gear VR touchpad to simulate clicks in Cardboard Apps
- Enables the Gear VR Developer Options inside the Gear VR Service App to toggle "Developer mode" for Low Persistence feature while using Cardboard Apps (much less blurring)
Google Play Link:
Gear VR Cardboard
Credits:
This App was created with Tasker and Tasker App Factory
Changelog:
0.5:
- "Enable Developer Options" script fixed due to Gear VR service update
0.4:
- faster app start by caching variables
0.3:
- improved script to toggle the Developer Options
- added better error reporting
0.2:
Fixed "Open Gear VR Service App" button not responding when "Show icon on the launcher" option was not enabled in the Gear VR Service App
0.1:
Open Release

*reserved*

Not sure if I understand. This app makes me able to use cardboard apps with VR or just switch between modes to use cardboard and gear VR?

Menelkir said:
Not sure if I understand. This app makes me able to use cardboard apps with VR or just switch between modes to use cardboard and gear VR?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It lets you switch between Gear VR and Cardboard mode.
By deactivating the Gear VR Service the Oculus Home does not auto start when you plug your phone to the Gear VR.
I found it complicated to always freeze the Service with Titanium Backup before running a Cardboard app, so i wrote this little app.

clonednull said:
It lets you switch between Gear VR and Cardboard mode.
By deactivating the Gear VR Service the Oculus Home does not auto start when you plug your phone to the Gear VR.
I found it complicated to always freeze the Service with Titanium Backup before running a Cardboard app, so i wrote this little app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah but.. it doesn't make me using cardboard apps with my VR, right?
Just to understand (I have the two, at least changing modes it's making happy already).

Menelkir said:
Yeah but.. it doesn't make me using cardboard apps with my VR, right?
Just to understand (I have the two, at least changing modes it's making happy already).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it depends how you mean "it doesn't make me using cardboard apps with my VR, right?"
If you mean a native Gear VR support for cardboard apps so the Gear VR sensors are used then the answer is no.
The cardboard app will still just use your phone sensors but you can at least enable "Low Persistence" mode (using the "Developer mode" switch in the Gear VR Service app) so cardboard apps no longer are a blurry mess when you move your head arround.
And you can use your Gear VR Touchpad to simulate clicks in cardboard apps (as we have no magnet).

It's a bit less kludgier than the App Quarantine widget and even provides a nifty shortcut to the Gear VR Service menus.
Didn't know strobed low-persistence mode persisted after freezing the Gear VR Service, too. Nifty!
All in all, a nice little app, though it could load a bit faster on first tap.

@clonednull getting the following error on my n910c when trying to enable the developer options (rooted): "Error while enabling gear VR Developer Options!". Thanks for the app! :good:

NamelessFragger said:
It's a bit less kludgier than the App Quarantine widget and even provides a nifty shortcut to the Gear VR Service menus.
Didn't know strobed low-persistence mode persisted after freezing the Gear VR Service, too. Nifty!
All in all, a nice little app, though it could load a bit faster on first tap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for feedback mate, the loading time results from the checks (via adb shell) to determine service / developer options status but i will check out if this can be improved :good:
Toss3 said:
@clonednull getting the following error on my n910c when trying to enable the developer options (rooted): "Error while enabling gear VR Developer Options!". Thanks for the app! :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for feedback, i knew i should have choosen a better error reporting and not only one error message
i couldn't test it on a note so maybe it has other folder paths, could you check out with a file browser if the following folders / files are available on your phone:
- /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml (= original preferences xml)
- /sdcard/Download/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences-mod.xml (= modded preferences xml)
appreciate your efforts :highfive:

Hi, I am getting the same error message on a Samsung s6 edge. I have checked for the folders you mentioned above but don't have them.

Toss3 said:
@clonednull getting the following error on my n910c when trying to enable the developer options (rooted): "Error while enabling gear VR Developer Options!". Thanks for the app! :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pyeboo said:
Hi, I am getting the same error message on a Samsung s6 edge. I have checked for the folders you mentioned above but don't have them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi mates, just done a version with an improved script to toggle the Developer Options and more error reporting.
Could you please check it out and tell me if it works or outputs an other error message?

Hi,
I tried your update earlier today, but can't remember the error message I got. It was something like 'error locating file'. Now when I try it the error message is 'error while enabling gear vr developer options %error'.

Pyeboo said:
Hi,
I tried your update earlier today, but can't remember the error message I got. It was something like 'error locating file'. Now when I try it the error message is 'error while enabling gear vr developer options %error'.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hm, it is strange that the error message has changed for you as it should at least output the same error...
Seems the preferences file of the service app could not be found.
Anyway if you still want to help me to find a solution, this is what you could do:
Let's try to find the location of the file using the android command shell:
Either download Terminal Emulator to your phone or use ADB ("adb shell") to get into the android command shell.
On the shell type the following commands:
Code:
su
find / -name "com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml" > /sdcard/vrsvc-findfile.txt
After this you should have a file called "vrsvc-findfile.txt" directly on your sdcard root folder (internal memory), please either send me this file or post it here.
Thanks for your efforts mate! :highfive:

Hi Clonednull,
I have generated a txt file as you requested, but frustratingly, I cannot work out how to attach it to this thread. I am a new user, maybe that facility is disabled?
Terminal couldn't find the file anyway, and I also couldn't find it using es explorer.
---------- Post added at 07:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:53 PM ----------
Me again! I found the file. The path is /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml

Pyeboo said:
Hi Clonednull,
I have generated a txt file as you requested, but frustratingly, I cannot work out how to attach it to this thread. I am a new user, maybe that facility is disabled?
Terminal couldn't find the file anyway, and I also couldn't find it using es explorer.
---------- Post added at 07:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:53 PM ----------
Me again! I found the file. The path is /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your investigation!
That's really weird as it is the same location used by my script so i really don't know why it does not work for you
Here is the complete script to enable developer options using the preferences file, you could copy / paste it line by line to find out which one does not work for you:
Code:
su
pm disable com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc
while read STRING; do echo "${STRING//'<boolean name="developer_check" value="false" />'/'<boolean name="developer_check" value="true" />'}" >> /sdcard/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences-mod.xml; done < /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml
mv /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences-backup.xml
mv /sdcard/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences-mod.xml /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml
chown system:system /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml
chmod 660 /data/data/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc/shared_prefs/com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc_preferences.xml
pm enable com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc

Wow, that's a saver. Thx. Always wanted to get GearVR into Cardboard mode

I seem to have fixed it somehow. I was trying to enable developer mode (via application manager, selecting gear vr service, manage storage, and tapping version 7 times)
Although I kept getting the message 'you are not a developer', it must have done something, as your app worked after that.
Its great to be able to use the touch panel with cardboard apps. Thanks for your work

Pyeboo said:
I seem to have fixed it somehow. I was trying to enable developer mode (via application manager, selecting gear vr service, manage storage, and tapping version 7 times)
Although I kept getting the message 'you are not a developer', it must have done something, as your app worked after that.
Its great to be able to use the touch panel with cardboard apps. Thanks for your work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool :good:
Good to hear its finally working for you mate and you're welcome! :highfive:

error : %error when trying to enable dev mod gear vr
new state : enabled

GEAR VR Cardboard Workaround
Or you can just slip it up a little farther and slide your phone in under the plug

Easier Non-Root way to get Oculus Home not to autolaunch (use cardboard apps, etc)

1: Download this: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ospolice.packagedisablerpro&hl=en
You can try the free version, but this is pretty cheap for what you get. This allows you to freeze the Oculus Service app so it doesn't auto launch. And you DO NOT need Root
2: Download this: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sideloadvr.market
Next up, you need to get your signature file and make an app and install it so you can enable developer mode. This app makes it super easy and will guide you through the app creation process. It'll have you get your sig file, upload it, and you can just pick a random app that it'll repack, and it does this all on your phone
Now that you have both of those done, turn on developer mode to reduce blurriness.
Go to your device Settings -> Application manager -> Gear VR Service (usually in the "Downloaded" section but could also be in the "All" section).
Tap on "Manage storage"
Tap the "VR Service Version" number six times.
Wait for scan process to complete and you should now see the Developer Mode toggle on this screen.
ENJOY! It worked on my Tmobile Note 5, not rooted.
And here is the google cardboard profile to get the best picture, less distortion on GearVR : https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7Hf9K5d9C3TTndkeDltSzdXYkE/view?usp=sharing

I find the Package Disabler Pro works very well.

When I tapped VR Service Version it scanned and said "You are NOT a developer" Developer mode is on, what did I do wrong?
---------- Post added at 07:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:21 AM ----------
When I try to build the app it takes several minutes then gives the error “Parse Error : There is a problem parsing the package” Help?
I'm using a galaxy Note 5. I've already enabled unknown sources, enabled developer mode and restarted the device.

Yes package disabler is the best way i found
Google package disabler pro.apk or pay the mear $1.95 for it then open her up and then ONLY check gear vr service, then launch your cardboard and 3rd party stuff. Note " you will have to enable and disable every time to revert back to using regular oculus launch browser"

sgear vr consumer edition.
I have developer option enabled, I'm trying to use cineveo app, off of the play store, but it does not continue to play when the phone (s6 edge +) is placed in the vr unit. I have stopped the Occulus start up, but,
a
I wonder if you could please be more clear about which of the several entries should be disabled, in case I have disabled the wrong entry or, maybe it should be more than one.
b.
Is it possible some one might give me, an idiot proof walkthru of how to enable and use cineveo.
Thank you for this thread and your help so far, Happy New Year to all on Xda.

samsungwarrior said:
sgear vr consumer edition.
I have developer option enabled, I'm trying to use cineveo app, off of the play store, but it does not continue to play when the phone (s6 edge +) is placed in the vr unit. I have stopped the Occulus start up, but,
a
I wonder if you could please be more clear about which of the several entries should be disabled, in case I have disabled the wrong entry or, maybe it should be more than one.
b.
Is it possible some one might give me, an idiot proof walkthru of how to enable and use cineveo.
Thank you for this thread and your help so far, Happy New Year to all on Xda.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not use Cinevo yet, I will try it later but if you ask about which process should be disabled to be able to use cardboard apps, you need to disable Gear Vr Services.
I also use gear vr light (consumer edition) on sgs6+.

dorsefrith said:
I did not use Cinevo yet, I will try it later but if you ask about which process should be disabled to be able to use cardboard apps, you need to disable Gear Vr Services.
I also use gear vr light (consumer edition) on sgs6+.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much for your reply, I'll keep an eye open for any experience you have to share.

All you have to do is buy package disabled from play store and disable gear vr service and you are good to go.
Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

The new Gear VR for S6/Edge/Edge+/Note5 apparently uses different drivers. There s no Gear VR Service. Turning off Oculus Home stops it from loading, but something is still starting. The screen goes black and the proximity sensor is working. I tried disabling all of the Oculus apps and all combinations. No luck.
Suggestions?

JohnB847 said:
The new Gear VR for S6/Edge/Edge+/Note5 apparently uses different drivers. There s no Gear VR Service. Turning off Oculus Home stops it from loading, but something is still starting. The screen goes black and the proximity sensor is working. I tried disabling all of the Oculus apps and all combinations. No luck.
Suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Type in VR in the search box and you will see the Gear VR Service., It works on the S6 edge.

So what does enabling developer mode actually do? I can see it makes the screen warmer and if flickers a bit but how does this reduce distortion?

transfo47 said:
So what does enabling developer mode actually do? I can see it makes the screen warmer and if flickers a bit but how does this reduce distortion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same happens to me. As soon as I activate developer mode, screen starts to flicker at about 20-30 Hz. Too ugly to leave on.

transfo47 said:
So what does enabling developer mode actually do? I can see it makes the screen warmer and if flickers a bit but how does this reduce distortion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It enables the "low persistence mode".
Normally a pixel is illuminated until the next refresh cycle hits him. This is not good in VR as moving your head around "drags" the illuminated pixel through space producing a blurry view. Just like quickly moving a flashlight around in the air produces a light trail. When the display is in low persistence mode the pixel illuminates only for a short time and then goes off again. This eliminates the blurriness when moving your head which can be always experienced when using cardboard apps. So enable Oculus "developer mode" to profit from "low persistence" also in cardboard apps - the only downside is the reduction in screen brightness.

clonednull said:
It enables the "low persistence mode".
Normally a pixel is illuminated until the next refresh cycle hits him. This is not good in VR as moving your head around "drags" the illuminated pixel through space producing a blurry view. Just like quickly moving a flashlight around in the air produces a light trail. When the display is in low persistence mode the pixel illuminates only for a short time and then goes off again. This eliminates the blurriness when moving your head which can be always experienced when using cardboard apps. So enable Oculus "developer mode" to profit from "low persistence" also in cardboard apps - the only downside is the reduction in screen brightness.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the explanation, that makes sense.

I have followed this and re-followed this and have been unable to locate Gear VR Services anywhere. I have a Sprint S6 Edge with the newest Oculus Gear VR. Any ideas?

voilette83 said:
I have followed this and re-followed this and have been unable to locate Gear VR Services anywhere. I have a Sprint S6 Edge with the newest Oculus Gear VR. Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know you have followed this but have you used "package disabler pro" like it says in the original post? Or can you see Gear VR Service when you look in Settings, Applications, Application Manager, All? Just trying to help you figure this out.

Or just search it manually by scrolling down. When I use Search button I can't find it also.

Tap the "VR Service Version" number six times.
Wait for scan process to complete and you should now see the*
Developer Mode toggle on this screen.
where to find lever ???? I see no lever ???[emoji15]
Enviado desde mi SM-G928F mediante Tapatalk

Even easier
Use Gear VR Cardboard. Available in the playstore.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bartslab.gearvrcardboard&hl=en

Maybe a silly question, but: When the Gear VR service is frozen and you plug your phone it, would the other VR apps still be able to use the Gear VR sensors? Or would they not have access to those anymore?
Also: plugging the phone in seems to disable the touch screen, which obviously makes sense. However, I have to turn on USB tethering once the phone is plugged in. Manually isn't possible since the touchscreen is turned off and I have found no way to automate this procedure without having root access (and the Gear VR doesn't seem to like rooted phones very much). Ideas?

port Gear vr software to other android device

Haiiii GUYSSS.Im thipok17(Plz call me Tin).This is my first post of my (not complete)ported gear vr software to other device.Im 14 years old student Who spend freetime on coding c++ and do some software hack ;D and Im interesting in Minecraft.It started from Mojang release Minecraft Gear VR Edition
(Im personally love Minecraft )And I want to play it.but I dont have gear vr or any samsung.So I started porting gear vr software by using little help from my friend (borrow his Note 4 phone for getting source file 'n' root his phone then void his warranty XD). I spend 10 hours per days in two month for porting Gear vr software.and it finally .I will show you for a (not completed)port of gear vr software
CREADIT
Samsung for Gear vr software.
Oculus for Oculus software.
DOWNLOAD LINKS IN SECOND POST
sory for bad english

DOWNLOAD
#NOTE this is not complete port.It just dumped file from samsung device.And Im not own all software.
WARNING!!!!
###IF U NEED TO INSTALL THIS.U NEED TO ROOT UR PHONE.AND IT MEAN U R VOIDING UR PHONE WARRANTY###
****IM NOT RESPONDING TO ANY DAMAGE WITH YOUR PHONE IF U INSTALL THIS BECAUSE U R CONSIDERED TO INTSALL NOT COMPLETE PORT ON UR PHONE.****
requirement:
1.surely you are on android
2.you must have a android 5.x or later (between 5.x to 7.x is recommended)
3.your CPU architecture must be arm arm64 .
4.YOUR PHONE NEED TO BE ROOTED (SuperSU or Magisk or whatever just a root access).
optional :
for some application (I think most)need a tracking system .but gear vr service developer mode is not working because hardware support .so you need a external tracker .the tracker is base on STM32F3 discovery board .so use this link for learns more at www.open-gear.com
I think this method is the easiest because you just need a development board come with a great enough hardware to be a tracker .no need to soldering just plug the usb to pc and upload .hex code then enjoy your work.
DDONWLOAD LINKS:
download the latest apps and always update all apps from links down below.
(ALL APP INSTALL AT NORMAL APK EXCEPT GEAR VR SETUP WIZARD STUB AND ALL FILE IN ATTACH ZIP. ONLY FOR FOLDER SET PERMISSION TO RWXR-XR-X OR 0755 OTHER THING LIKE APK SET AT RW-R--R-- OR 0644).
Links for oculus app
oculus:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus/
oculus app runtime:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-app-runtime/
oculus home:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-home/
oculus media plugin:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-media-plugin/
oculus room:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-rooms/
oculus system activities:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-system-activities/
oculus system driver:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-system-driver/
oculus vr :https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oculus-vr/oculus-vr/
Links for samsun Gear vr app
gear vr setup wizard stub(INSTALL IN /SYSTEM/PRIV-APP):https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/samsung-electronics-co-ltd/gear-vr-setupwizardstub/
gear vr setup wizard :https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/samsung-electronics-co-ltd/gear-vr-setupwizard/
gear vr service:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/samsung-electronics-co-ltd/gear-vr-service/
gear vr shell:https://1drv.ms/u/s!AsNsKN33FBTvnjyszdAV-PyKL5r2
gear vr system:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/samsung-electronics-co-ltd/gear-vr-system/
gear vr input service:https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/samsung-electronics-co-ltd/gear-vr-inputservice/
NOTE:If you cant install gear vr service .you need to sign apk and set se-linux to permissive.if not work .download lucky patcher and apply patch to android .by click at "toolbox" then "patch to android" .Then select "Signature Verification status always True"and"Disable .apk Signature Verification" and dont forget to tick at "only patch dalvik-cache" click apply and your phone will rebot 1 time .next follow the past step but select "Disable signature verification in the package manager" click apply and you phone will reboot 1 time .and next go install gear vr service.
Im working on the hardware to working with my xperia x the link to the github is here http://github.com/TiNredmc/Foculus_Rift_Tracker_STM32F3DISCOVERY/
If you enjoy my not complete porting or get working in something that I dont know or say not working dont forget to tell me in priv chat or post inn this thread
Also dont forget to hit the THANK button :good::good::good:

thipok17 said:
Now time for a download #NOTE IT NOT COMPLETELY PORTED IT JUST FOR DEV AND I GOT IT WORKING ON MY XPERIA Z1 LOLLIPOP ROM ON OTHER IDK AND IT NOT FLASHABLE ZIP YOU NEED TO MANUALY INSTALL...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you mean you are successfully running the Gear VR both h/w & s/w with your Xperia? Could you provide more details? Thanks.

do the touch pad and buttons work too?

Even if you successfully got the needed folders, the VR service and the ROM would need to be pointed to the directory. Another issue you may run into is that the VR Gear and services were designed to run specifically on Samsung devices only.
I'm not saying it won't work, but be careful when you try and certainly backup your phone first.

I know the risk. Soon I will buy used Note 5 for making a gear vr porting and I will test ported on my another z1 (I have 2)

i cannot even get it working on my Samsung S7 Active, (which is pretty much identical to a S7 mainboard wise. is just battery, case, button layout differs)
which is *just* a software issue im sure..
so im VERY much interested if you get the touchpad/buttons, and insertion detection working !! and how you did it !
as thats something i just cannot get going here ! ..

Think it's possible to use with the OnePlus 3 ?

well tried to get this installed, but couldnt get over permissions to overwrite those files .. (was rooted, in ES.File Explorer)
cannot do it in recovery as dont have any kinda custom recovery on s7.active ...
but did this give you ability to use the buttons, and touchpad ??

I tired with latest update of oculus software.I lost for a long timeeee because this latest version.I will port soon (It on my Xperia z1 and I dont charge it for a month....)

I planned to buy a used Galaxy note 5.for porting purpose and streaming Minecraft gearVR on Youtube ;D

ac8dl said:
Did you mean you are successfully running the Gear VR both h/w & s/w with your Xperia? Could you provide more details? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not with hardware I need to do some coding and Microcontroller circuit building.Software not 100 usable it sometime crashes Not stable and laggy

miniminus said:
do the touch pad and buttons work too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry I dont have real Gear vr.I only have software XD

Nixeus said:
Think it's possible to use with the OnePlus 3 ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Prepare and try with your self (need root just googling for Oneplaus 3 root )

miniminus said:
well tried to get this installed, but couldnt get over permissions to overwrite those files .. (was rooted, in ES.File Explorer)
cannot do it in recovery as dont have any kinda custom recovery on s7.active ...
but did this give you ability to use the buttons, and touchpad ??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found a way to simulate gyro sensor but not with touchpad it use arm cortex microcontroller
link:https://www.roadtovr.com/can-now-clone-gear-vr-test-virtual-reality-apps
link2:http://open-gear.com
link3:https://github.com/yetifrisstlama/Foculus_Rift_Tracker_STM32F3DISCOVERY
U need some coding and some Electronics skill (for me is Easy )

After oculus have new update
IMPORTANT:After new update of oculus.Oculus system activity will crash if you launch VR application.I have seen in logcat.It say it cant found "defaultDistortion.bin" in directory /sdcard/Oculus .So I findding for it.And I found in gear vr service app.Then I extracted the file . Here is file
ANOTHER IMPORTANT:Extract in your internal sd card folder name"Oculus" and enjoy l.If crashes send me or post a logcat

I think you shouldn't push yourself too hard.
Software hacking and Hardware simulation is too hard at once.
Going step by step would be easier and have a higher success rate.
You could first get a Gear Vr. Those are often sold for cheap , when Samsung tried to empty their shelves.
Especially the older ones.
Then prioritize Software porting until any phone is running stable on Gear Vr.
And then approach Gyroscope simulation on any Cardboard Headset to make it a Gear Vr.
But it's highly likely that the experience is worse. I mean Samsung is not stupid for putting a dedicated tracking circuit board inside the Gear Vr. They know that Smartphones don't have the best gyros etc. Mediocre Sensors are enough for Smartphone uses but when you are in VR you need a much higher sampling rate , hence the upgraded gyros in the Gear Vr. (Oculus and vive are the same)
So there is that. But it doesn't stop there. Let's say you ignore the last point or let's say your Gyroscope is good enough , there is still one big issue:
All gear vr content is made for the gear vrs optics. So you would need to find a cardboard headset that comes closest to the Gear Vrs lenses, lens to screen distance and face to lens distance and lPD( distance between L&R lens ... which should be the least problem though since many headsets have an adjustable IPD)
So to sum it up. The best bet would be to do the obvious . Use the gear vr with another android phone for gear vr experience.
Let's hope you can get that to work. Keep up the good work. And amazing talent at that age. 14 wow.

iHack13 said:
I think you shouldn't push yourself too hard.
Software hacking and Hardware simulation is too hard at once.
Going step by step would be easier and have a higher success rate.
You could first get a Gear Vr. Those are often sold for cheap , when Samsung tried to empty their shelves.
Especially the older ones.
Then prioritize Software porting until any phone is running stable on Gear Vr.
And then approach Gyroscope simulation on any Cardboard Headset to make it a Gear Vr.
But it's highly likely that the experience is worse. I mean Samsung is not stupid for putting a dedicated tracking circuit board inside the Gear Vr. They know that Smartphones don't have the best gyros etc. Mediocre Sensors are enough for Smartphone uses but when you are in VR you need a much higher sampling rate , hence the upgraded gyros in the Gear Vr. (Oculus and vive are the same)
So there is that. But it doesn't stop there. Let's say you ignore the last point or let's say your Gyroscope is good enough , there is still one big issue:
All gear vr content is made for the gear vrs optics. So you would need to find a cardboard headset that comes closest to the Gear Vrs lenses, lens to screen distance and face to lens distance and lPD( distance between L&R lens ... which should be the least problem though since many headsets have an adjustable IPD)
So to sum it up. The best bet would be to do the obvious . Use the gear vr with another android phone for gear vr experience.
Let's hope you can get that to work. Keep up the good work. And amazing talent at that age. 14 wow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now I have freetime on my vocation.about hardware is not a problem. Like gyroscope sensor.I have arduino. I have c++.I have electronic skill.Im coding with hardware.Im atill lucky to have a external hardware to use with this gear vr port.
About vr headset.I have google cardboard and VRBox. Recently I just play minecraft gear vr with my friend(with gamepad joy stick).

Update :I have way to test with hardware !!!
After I know the open-gear.com It's good news because we can have external hardware incluced with gyroscope .Im considering to buy them and manualy flash bootloader to it.but if you are bad at electronic DIY .you can also buy the pre programmed hardware for about $30 .it's good price for me but with the shipping to Thailand the shipping cost can be same as hardware kit .if you are in usa .you can buy the pre programmed kit by this link: open-gear.com and scroll down to
"Midnight Sun"kit you can see a screenshot from my phone.
And who can buy the hardware and program it with yourself
Just search for STM32F3 Discovery boardin Digikey Mouser Ebay or Distributor in your country. You can learn mor about flash bootloader in their website : open-gear.com

is work on a7 2017 with this file?
thx

Note 4 and Gear VR controller

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone has any experience with the new Gear VR controller and a Note 4 ? I understand I may have to root my SM-N910C in order to temporarily modify the model version [to a Note 5] in order to pair/calibrate controller ?
If I have to choose this route [unless anyone knows a work around] I am having trouble finding recommended method on FW build MMB29K.N910CXXS2DQF2
Any help appreciated !

Solution !
I did find some info on this so here's how you fix this problem WITHOUT root.
Go find
com.samsung.android.app.vr.input.service_1.0.44-44_minAP121(nodpi)_apkmirror.com.apk
or just look for Samsung gear vr input apk
Side load apk, you are then able to pair and calibrate ! This loop problem is ether intentional or a genuine bug.
Tested for a number of hours and works fine !

I would have imagined that the Gear VR Controlller would have worked perfectly fine with the Note 4. As long as you have bluetooth enabled.

Hello friends,
I tried the apk : com.samsung.android.app.vr.input.service_1.0.44-44_minAPI21(nodpi)_apkmirror.com
however my samsung note 4 (not rooted) is able to the gear vr controller, it can't appair to it.
I tried several time after rebooting my phone, I'm in the same situation
Any idea ?

I think they have dropped the Gear VR Controller Support on the Note 4 completely. Now the "Controller" menu is completely missing from the Oculus VR settings "More" menu. I tried installing older versions of the input service "1.0.44" but that didn't bring the menu back.
Someone any idea how to fix this?
Theoretically the controller is compatible with the Note 4 so it is probably a commercial step why they removed it.
PS: I didn't try rooting my phone to change the ID to see if the "Controller" menu reappears.

I am rooted on a Sprint Note 4 (SM-N910P). A few months ago, I got it to work by doing the process https://www.reddit.com/r/GearVR/comments/67z5sd/will_the_controller_work_with_note_4/ It worked, but then one day the option for the controller was gone again and the controller would not work. Oculus app updates may have done it.
I just went in and changed back build.prop so that ro.product.model=SM-G935P so that it thinks it's a Sprint Galaxy S7 Edge. I rebooted, and now the Controller option in the menu is back. That is all I did. I'm not sure if I'll have any negative effects just leaving it as SM-G935P, but I'm going to try.

I tested VR and controller functionality after leaving it as SM-G935P, everything seems to work just fine.
preslin said:
I am rooted on a Sprint Note 4 (SM-N910P). A few months ago, I got it to work by doing the process https://www.reddit.com/r/GearVR/comments/67z5sd/will_the_controller_work_with_note_4/ It worked, but then one day the option for the controller was gone again and the controller would not work. Oculus app updates may have done it.
I just went in and changed by build.prop so that ro.product.model=SM-G935P so that it thinks it's a Sprint Galaxy S7 Edge. I rebooted, and now the Controller option in the menu is back. That is all I did. I'm not sure if I'll have any negative effects just leaving it as SM-G935P, but I'm going to try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

preslin said:
I tested VR and controller functionality after leaving it as SM-G935P, everything seems to work just fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does charging work with this mod?
Thanks

nasinec said:
Does charging work with this mod?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't charge my phone while it's in VR, but I have no reason to think it won't work.

preslin said:
I don't charge my phone while it's in VR, but I have no reason to think it won't work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 4 did not charge in previous editions of Gear Vr.

Hi everyone! So glad I can contribute to XDA!
1st: size is key, sm325 note8 Gear VR is the only one I was able to use with space to fit the size of Note 4 & Note Edge (remember that one?).
Second, you want to use Nova launcher activities (google it) and something like Aptoide to download the following:
Oculus VR apks (Home, App framework, etc.) as many as possible
More important still : download apps of Samsung's "Gear VR" service, setup wizard, system, input service, etc.
No need to root.
Once downloaded, create activities in Nova launcher widget on touchwiz or direct on Nova or custom launcher. Create them esp for Input Service to pair that VR controller that's the best $30/30€ you'd ever spend...
Better news still, all this is DPI free so if like me you are using a low setting for extra space on your Note 4 screen esp with the docking station HDMI that gave us D'ex before Dex, it does not screw with your stock VR apps.

Hi roniboian
Could explain more precisely your trick?
it look excellent but don't understand how to get GEAR VR controller connected to note. 4

roniboian said:
Hi everyone! So glad I can contribute to XDA!
1st: size is key, sm325 note8 Gear VR is the only one I was able to use with space to fit the size of Note 4 & Note Edge (remember that one?).
Second, you want to use Nova launcher activities (google it) and something like Aptoide to download the following:
Oculus VR apks (Home, App framework, etc.) as many as possible
More important still : download apps of Samsung's "Gear VR" service, setup wizard, system, input service, etc.
No need to root.
Once downloaded, create activities in Nova launcher widget on touchwiz or direct on Nova or custom launcher. Create them esp for Input Service to pair that VR controller that's the best $30/30€ you'd ever spend...
Better news still, all this is DPI free so if like me you are using a low setting for extra space on your Note 4 screen esp with the docking station HDMI that gave us D'ex before Dex, it does not screw with your stock VR apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, i joined just to ask you how to do what you describe above! You said you would be happy to contribute, that would be really great,.. What you have written is very vague, at XDA the best people tend to share complete info, Could you give actual steps by steps?
I can find any of the APKs at 'APKMirror' site, they have the gear vr service, oculus home, everything, for Many many back dates.
(but; any advice on which dates or which actual files? Ideally the most recent update where the motion controller still worked..)
Please explain this 'create activities in NOVA launcher widget' method. (I am hoping it means, the apk's will install without the 'automatic wifi method' which invariably gives the newest files...)
What do you mean by DPI free? Please explain the process.
Thanks for the hope!

Yes, please explain in more detail. I am somewhat familiar with these sort of things and moderately comfortable messing around with stuff. I currently don't have a PC or easy access to one so I'm sure rooting my Note 4 is out of the question. That's why I've restarted my seach for a workaround to get the gear vr controller working with my Note 4 and corresponding headset. When I bought the controller a few months ago, I couldn't find anything reliable without root. This was the first place I came to so my hope is that this thread was abandoned b/c some of your brilliant minds have come up simple and successful patch. I have my fingers crossed, I'm getting kinda tired of using my steel series controller. Thanks everyone

Hi I can help. I started this thread, but XDA Password recovery can takes hours, even days or infinity now, since the link they send for password recovery, opens a random page, that has nothing to do with password recovery... I have never once gotten any help here with anything, ever, so I don't care enough to bother logging in anymore... BUT:
I have the Motion Controller working on my Note 4 in a limited fashion. You need to go to APKMirror (just Google 'download Gear VR Apk'... As you should have to begin with.) Download all the early APKs, one in each category, uninstall your gear software, and such, reinstall each apk (about 8 I believe) until it works. I remember centering around the earliest 'APRIL' Updates. You can run a LOT of apps with the controller, but not any new or newer apps. Im at: NextWorldVR (@) gmail.com if you need more help. The guy above will never answer you, this place is a bit of an elitist joke, I just figure out everything on my own now rather than bolster their tiny weaning toddler egos...