Side loaded APK check for security consistency (Android Auto)? - Nexus 6 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hello,
there is a limitation in my region to download Android Auto. However I've tested it on old phone w/ CM + download from www . apkmirror . com and it works as charm.
Now the question is - I want to install it on my personal Nexus 6, where I'm very cautious what I put and what permissions I give.
Tried to search the net, looks like the site is trusted because of the comminity behind it but still what are my options to ensure myself APK is what Google provided?
When downloading it there is a fingerprint :
"Safe to Download
This APK is signed by Google Inc. and upgrades your existing app.
Fingerprint: 9C:A9:1F:9E:70:4D:63:0E:F6:7A:23:F5:2B:F1:57:7A:92:B9:CA:5D
The cryptographic signature guarantees that the file is safe to install and was not tampered with in any way."
But I'm not sure this fingerprint is Google's, nor that it's really signed with it.
Any help is welcome

If the signature is not same the app won't upgrade your old version and will install as a new app.
So if your updates successfully after installing the Apk then rest assured that the signature are same.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA Labs

immiMIK said:
If the signature is not same the app won't upgrade your old version and will install as a new app.
So if your updates successfully after installing the Apk then rest assured that the signature are same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, if the signatures don't match, the update won't install at all.
APKMirror is legit. If I recall, they're owned by the same people who own Android Police.

Thanks guys!
The issue is the following with the flow :
1. You can't find it in Play Store when the APK is not installed (Android Auto)
2. I've tried to install one version below lastest from apk mirror and then if I search for Android Auto in Play Store I can see "not supported in your region/country". Not showing that upgrade is available.
3. From p.1 and p.2 I can't reasure myself that APK is trusted

http://www.apkmirror.com/faq/
What measures do you take to make sure all uploaded APKs are real and created by the respective developers?
All APKMirror.com uploads are verified prior to publishing.
We make sure that the cryptographic signatures for new versions of all previously published apps match the original ones, which means we know if uploaded APKs were signed by the real devs or someone pretending to be them.
a. For new apps that have never been uploaded to APKMirror.com, we try to match the signatures to other existing apps by the same developer. If there’s a match, it means that the same key was used to sign a previously known legitimate app, therefore validating the new upload.
b. If we see no matches, we try to obtain and compare to a version of the same app from the Play Store or another verified location. If it’s a beta, we will try to get into it. If we can’t, we will attempt to contact the developer.
c. If we’re unable to verify the legitimacy of a new APK, we will simply not publish it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
apkmirror is trusted as other users have mentioned and they have a good track record. If you don't trust sideloading apks, unroot your phone, take off your custom ROM, flash a stock factory image and never mess with your device again.

Thanks all,
I will use them.
Cheers!

Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Actually, if the signatures don't match, the update won't install at all.
APKMirror is legit. If I recall, they're owned by the same people who own Android Police.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I meant that it won't install as update and install totally as new application.
OP you can trust apkmirror. Yes it's owned by Android Police.

immiMIK said:
What I meant that it won't install as update and install totally as new application.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're installing an app for the first time, it will install so long as the signature is valid. An update to that app will successfully install so long as the package name and signatures match. If the package names are different, e.g. com.android.dialer and com.google.android.dialer, the second app will install alongside the first. If the package names are the same but the signatures are different, e.g. ES File Explorer versus my modified version, the update will not install.
That's how I understand things. Has something changed that I don't know about? I'm not understanding your statement, as it contradicts what I know about Android packaging and signatures.

Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
If you're installing an app for the first time, it will install so long as the signature is valid. An update to that app will successfully install so long as the package name and signatures match. If the package names are different, e.g. com.android.dialer and com.google.android.dialer, the second app will install alongside the first. If the package names are the same but the signatures are different, e.g. ES File Explorer versus my modified version, the update will not install.
That's how I understand things. Has something changed that I don't know about? I'm not understanding your statement, as it contradicts what I know about Android packaging and signatures.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah what you said is correct. That's what i wanted to covey.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA Labs

Related

[Q] Can you add a device id?

I searched the forums and the Nook forums specifically but could not find an answer (not that I would know if I saw one).
I am a pharmacy student and I was trying to install the Lexi-Comp app free trial. The app says that my device ID could not be found. I called their support line and they said only cell-enabled devices for Android were supported at installation because only they have a device ID.
Is there a way to add a device ID to the Nook so I can run this app?
I am running CM 7-080420011-NIGHTLY-encore.
I hope this is something simple. I am stupid about computers and I bought this thing expressly to use Lexi-Comp on rotations (there is no mention of cell-only Android devices anywhere on their website).
Eldric IV said:
I searched the forums and the Nook forums specifically but could not find an answer (not that I would know if I saw one).
I am a pharmacy student and I was trying to install the Lexi-Comp app free trial. The app says that my device ID could not be found. I called their support line and they said only cell-enabled devices for Android were supported at installation because only they have a device ID.
Is there a way to add a device ID to the Nook so I can run this app?
I am running CM 7-080420011-NIGHTLY-encore.
I hope this is something simple. I am stupid about computers and I bought this thing expressly to use Lexi-Comp on rotations (there is no mention of cell-only Android devices anywhere on their website).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Find the IMEI Generator and ROM patcher thread.... but I'd wait an hour or so... should be an update by then.
No worries about waiting an hour. I think it will take me all weekend to figure out what to do with that.
Eldric IV said:
No worries about waiting an hour. I think it will take me all weekend to figure out what to do with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, its quite simple... just run the app... it will generate an IMEI for your nook.
You can use In Place (updating ROM already installed) or update a dev's ROM before flashing it (useful for nightlies)
DizzyDen said:
Actually, its quite simple... just run the app... it will generate an IMEI for your nook.
You can use In Place (updating ROM already installed) or update a dev's ROM before flashing it (useful for nightlies)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, if I am understanding this, I:
1. Download the zip
2. Run the zip
3. Done?
I ran the zip (on my Nook) and it rebooted my Nook but nothing seems to have changed.
I see lots of mention to "adb" but I do not have that. Is it necessary?
Edit: So I managed to get adb(Wifi) established (greatly expedited thanks to the adbWireless app, as I was completely unable to install the Google USB drivers) and then ran the .exe in the zip on my PC instead of my Nook (I told you I was stupid about computers). Lexi-Comp is currently installing its databases on my Nook. The well-being of my patients has profited from your labors. I thank you kindly.

[MOD] GS3 SecEmail.apk & Exchange.apk with Exchange Security Disabled

This was cross-posted in the US GS3 forum, but I figured you international guys might want this as well.
Below are the Mail and Exchange apks for the S3 with exchange security disabled. This is for those who use exchange support at work, but who hate entering a pin or password every time they want to unlock their phone. Many of us use low-level security corporate exchanges that don't require a pin, so the apk files below remove that security.
DISCLAIMER: If your place of employment's exchange policy requires the use of a pin, please be advised that use of these apks may be punishable up to termination of employment, as well as other possible legal action. Some companies take their exchange security VERY seriously and this mod is only for those whose policy does not require a pin but are unnecessarily prompted to enter one anyway. Please speak with your IT department before using these files as I will not be held responsible for any mis-use of this app or any collateral damage that may ensue. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. In the event you need to get back to stock, I have also posted stock apks below which will get you back to stock. Download the 'Return to Stock' link, unzip the downloaded file, and then just push them to /system/app/
1) Delete any exchange email accounts from your phone and remove any shortcuts to the mail app from your device
2) If applicable, remove any exchange administrators from Settings -> Security -> Device administrators
3) Download the 'Hacked Mail apks' file linked below. THIS IS NOT A FLASHBLE ZIP. The apk files were just too big for XDA's upload limit and so I had to zip them up and host them online. Once downloaded, unzip and grab out the 2 apk files inside (SecEmail.apk and Exchange.apk)
4) Mount your phone's system as R/W (either using Root Explorer or 'adb remount')
5) Copy the newly downloaded SecEmail.apk and Exchange.apk files to system/app/ via root explorer and overwrite the older file if/when it asks, or you can just push the files to system/app via adb
6) Set permissions on both apks as rw-r--r--
7) Reboot
8) After reboot, create a shortcut if you want and then open up the Email app and set up your corporate account.
7) You will be prompted to enable security policy midway through... this is normal so hit 'OK' and it will not ask you to enable security any further.
As previously mentioned in the disclaimer, you can use the Stock apks to get back to stock if you run into any issues. Just download the 'Return to Stock' link below, extract the 2 apks out, and follow the same process as above.
Donations always appreciated. Enjoy
LINKS:
Hacked Mail apks: http://d-h.st/8xa
Return to Stock apks: http://d-h.st/aAk
I'd prefer you to use the links directly above, but in the event they aren't working or are blocked in your country, try using these instead:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29011281&postcount=9
Thanks friend
excellent work!
You are the man! I've been waiting for this.
Thank you!
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
Is there an hacked version of the stock google email floating around?
gkaipale said:
You are the man! I've been waiting for this.
Thank you!
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You didn't ask for it, it's included on my custom since my first release .
jhericurls said:
Is there an hacked version of the stock google email floating around?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edit: found it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1117452
just what I was looking for only problem is the link dont work :crying:
Same here any chance of posting a link that works :fingers-crossed:
Just tested the links and they are working fine for me. Perhaps they are blocked in your county.
That being said, here are some links secondary links via dropbox. I'd prefer everyone to use the links in the OP as flooding the links below can end up blocking my db account, but they're here for others experiencing download issues
Hacked mail apks: http://db.tt/SXwjYCeK
Return to stock: http://db.tt/cGMIbkVJ
Not working for me
I followed the steps but when I open Email app to add account it gives me a FC error...
I m on stock ROM XXBLFB..pls help
wanam said:
You didn't ask for it, it's included on my custom since my first release .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly dear Wanam...
I downloaded your ROM, extracted those 2 apks, all working fine, really very appreciate!
Thanks a lot, this seems to actually work. The strange thing is, i've replaced those 2 apk files on a stock ODEXED rom (!!!), yet it works anyway. I guess none of the other apk/odexes depend on those 2.
Thanks again
InfX said:
Thanks a lot, this seems to actually work. The strange thing is, i've replaced those 2 apk files on a stock ODEXED rom (!!!), yet it works anyway. I guess none of the other apk/odexes depend on those 2.
Thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do I need to delete the odex files also after copying these apks? it's not working for me
Sent from my GT-I9300
doesn't quite work like the ones from the HTC forums.
where in you can still choose to do patter lock. after adding an exchange account.
the mod for SIII disables all types of lock aside from Pin and Password after adding an account. although you can add a pattern lock before adding an exchange account and it still works.
kuberchib said:
do I need to delete the odex files also after copying these apks? it's not working for me
Sent from my GT-I9300
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do. Ive renamed the 2 original apk files along with the corresponding odex files, placing the new ones in there instead. Works perfectly ok for me. I am on 4.0.4 XXALF5, stock, odexed. Ill probably switch to deodexed soon, though, but it does work for me right now anyway.
baste07 said:
doesn't quite work like the ones from the HTC forums.
where in you can still choose to do patter lock. after adding an exchange account.
the mod for SIII disables all types of lock aside from Pin and Password after adding an account. although you can add a pattern lock before adding an exchange account and it still works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This mod disables thr EXCHANGE administrating those locks for you, it doed NOT affect your ability to setup a lock on a device on your own, in any possible way. In fact, replacing just the apks mentioned, it technically cannot do anything to affect it.
Thanks a lot for that man. What about jellybean I be seen the exchange.apk became exchange2.apk
Is there a difference?
Working great, just needed to delet odex files
I am running the ATT version, with a CM10 preview.. will these work on my version?
there's a bug or my company admin is just good detecting this. it is able to block it
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk 2

[ROM] Debloated BNH5 ported from TMobile, rooted, deodexed, no knox, Download Booster

** DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT A DEVELOPER. I DO THIS AS A HOBBY AND SHARE MY FINDINGS IN CASE SOMEONE ELSE FINDS THEM USEFUL. **
** THIS WORKED ON MY DEVICE BUT IT MAY NOT WORK ON YOURS. APPLY AT YOUR OWN RISK **​
This is a de-bloated version of the latest KitKat 4.4.2 Rom from T-mobile, i.e. G900TUVU1BNH5. I ported it to ATT and stripped it down to basics. Here is what you will find in this ROM:
Calculator, Calendar, Camera,Clock, Ctontacts, Email, Gallery, Google search and voice, stock browser, Google maps, Memo, Phone and SMS, Music player, My Files, Play Store,Video, Voice recorder, and Youtube.
Everything else has been removed. The zip file size is just under 700MB.
Other features:
1- Pre-rooted and deodexed.
2- Knox, security apps, and updater disabled (your phone will no longer update itself without your knowledge)
3- Call recording enabled.
4- SDcard write restrictions removed.
5- Tethering restrictions removed.
6- Download Bosoter functional on AT&T network.
Requirements:
1- Safestrap or custom recovery.
2- To begin with, you should be on ATT NCE4 rom or a variant of that. It has been reported that this is incompatible with NG3
Download link:
Mega https://mega.co.nz/#!tlcnwBJb!tqGDImZ-HOVKVi_ykMGzNG20qgEOXfS7cxMLdQCtsp0 (version 3)
Instructions:
This is a flashable zip. Boot to recovery to flash it. I strongly recommend a clean wipe before flashing a new Rom.
After reboot, leave the phone alone for 10 minutes before you use it. After the first reboot the data connection takes a while to be recognized. If it does not connect after 10 min, enable and disable airplane mode and it should be fine after that.
There are a few more megs that can be squeezes out of this still so I will update this to a version 2 in the next few days.
A Word about Debloating
There is a misconception that if the size of a ROM is smaller it leaves more usable space on the phone. That is not true. For example, in Galaxy S5, around 2.5GB is earmarked for the system rom, whether it is filled or not. So if you make a very small ROM the space you save is still earmarked for the system and will not show up as free space on your SDcard or whatnot, unless you repartition your /system (bad idea) or manually open some storage space in /system and use it (poor idea). Therefore, in debloating this ROM I mostly removed the elements that constantly run in the background and make the system slow and left a lot of what is not actively used intact, even if they were big in size.
Credits:
JustArchi for creating ArchiKitchen
Screenshots
Applications that come with the rom.
V1: Initial release
V2: Baby crying detector and Samsung Dictionary removed
V3: Removed: T-mobile boot up and power off insignia, non-essential media files, non-US-English VODB and sipdb files. non-essential libraries. Fixed a potentially fatal typo in the update script.
Okay, kind of confused here... This is V1 and your other NH5 thread is V2. Whats the difference between this and the other? More "debloated"?
joe3681 said:
Okay, kind of confused here... This is V1 and your other NH5 thread is V2. Whats the difference between this and the other? More "debloated"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The rom on the other thread is not de-bloated. The file in that thread has every single file that came with the stock ROM. The knox and updater and security files are all in there and just disabled, in case someone just decides to go back to full stock.
In this thread I have removed a long list of apps and directories and libraries. That is why the file here is half the size of the one on the other thread.
I tested this on ANCE base. No FC or hangup. Smooth as butter.
Loving what you're doing here. No-frills, simple rom.
Keep up the good work. I like that the things that normally run in the background are removed, it's great
Edit: Chrome says the file is Malware when I download from MEGA. You probably didn't upload malware but that's what it's telling me. Just letting you know
skyrocketeer said:
Loving what you're doing here. No-frills, simple rom.
Keep up the good work. I like that the things that normally run in the background are removed, it's great
Edit: Chrome says the file is Malware when I download from MEGA. You probably didn't upload malware but that's what it's telling me. Just letting you know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chrome is trying to be cautious here because it sees an install script and a file marked as executable inside a zip file and freaks out. Or it could be because MEGA has been associated in the past with malware download. Whatever the reason, this conservative approach results in false alarms which is known for Chrome. See for example: https://torrentfreak.com/chrome-blocks-utorrent-as-malicious-and-harmful-software-140716/
I suggest that you either ignore the chrome warning, click on "show all downloads" and locate the file and recover it, or download it with Firefox. In either case, after you are done downloading, scan it with a reputable virus scanner of your choice. I just downloaded it myself, scanned it with McAfee Enterprise Edition and it is clean.
Anybody encounter binary updater error while flashing this? Coming from DK rom
l34rn said:
Anybody encounter binary updater error while flashing this? Coming from DK rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are not using safestrap make sure you have the latest TWRP or CWM installed. If you use safestrap please describe what kind of error you get. You can use the log utility to save the output of the install script on the SD card to see later what the error is.
I don't seem to be able to sync my contacts. The contact option is not listed under the google account. Calendar is not there either and the calendar won't sync.
Sent from my SM-G900T using XDA Free mobile app
gregthomas129 said:
I don't seem to be able to sync my contacts. The contact option is not listed under the google account. Calendar is not there either and the calendar won't sync.
Sent from my SM-G900T using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is because the sync functions are removed. Use the not-debloated version if you need this feature.
najoor said:
That is because the sync functions are removed. Use the not-debloated version if you need this feature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any chance you can give a location to just this apk? I really like the ROM but need Google Contact Sync.
pixeldrew said:
Any chance you can give a location to just this apk? I really like the ROM but need Google Contact Sync.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright. Download the non-debloated version from here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/att...-g900tuvu1bnh5-ported-tmobile-rooted-t2900780
Unzip it and and look under system/app and system/priv-app. All the apks are there. Pick and choose whatever you want.

Unable to update system apps with .apk files from www.apkmirror.com

APK of any Samsung system app refuses to install with the message "App not installed", with the exceptions of Samsung account, Samsung Galaxy Apps, Samsung Notes and Samsung Themes.
Here are some observations:
Create shortcut to .apk file and install immediately after reboot (Did not work)
Toggle "Secure Startup" in Settings and reboot (Did not work, it worked on the S8 and S7 devices)
Installing via ADB (Failed with the following error):
HTML:
Failed to install app.apk: Failure [INSTALL_FAILED_BY_BUILDTYPE_BY_SECURITY_POLICY]
Changing the version code of the .apk file with APK Editor (Did not work, causes "App not installed. The package conflicts with an existing package by the same name" error, which is different from the "App not installed" error initially)
For a screenshot of the "App not installed" error, please look at this post by @Teknick.
Searching this error on Google returns few useful results, so this definitely needs more attention. I highly suspect this is a Samsung security policy that is preventing the install. Is there any workaround? (except rooting, of course) I wouldn't be asking this if the Samsung apps could update themselves. Right now, every Samsung app insists that "The latest version is already installed" in the About section when there's a clearly a 2-month-later newer version available. And, no, these .apk files are NOT from the S8 Oreo beta.
Seriously, no one?
It's forbidden to bump your thread in less than 24 hours.
No one is sitting here just waiting to answer your questions.
And why open a new thread, there is already one, and you even posted in it.
Sent from my Galaxy Note8 using XDA Labs
If you are going to lecture people on the forum rules, I suggest you go back and read them yourself.
I'll make it easy and highlight a section for you real quick:
2.3 Flaming / Lack of respect: XDA is about sharing and this does not involve virtual yelling (flaming) or rudeness. Flaming or posting with a lack of respect is unacceptable. Treat new members in the manner in which you would like to have been treated when you were a new member. When dealing with any member, provide them with guidance, advice and instructions when you can, showing them respect and courtesy. Never post in a demanding, argumentative, disrespectful or self-righteous manner.​Also, if you can point out the 24 hour rule, I'd appreciate it, because the only part I found on bumping threads is this:
You can add updates to your thread (ie new features for an app., etc), BUT only update if you are posting relevant to the topic and NOT with the sole purpose of getting the thread to the top of the page (known as "bumping") otherwise it will be considered as spam.​
Dejan Sathanas said:
It's forbidden to bump your thread in less than 24 hours.
No one is sitting here just waiting to answer your questions.
And why open a new thread, there is already one, and you even posted in it.
Sent from my Galaxy Note8 using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nowhere in the forum rules does this appear. If you don't have anything that is helpful/adds to the discussion, why post this? I started this thread because I believe this issue needs more attention like I said before, as well as providing more information for others who might have this problem as well (and might be searching for answers here).
You can install some of them after you got new official update <security/policy update>,
The signature is different for different model, even same app like device maintenance, you cannot install the apk file from phone s8,s8+
For some independent app like samsung account, samsung themes, you can upgrade with installing the apk from the website you mentioned.
If you have 3rd party recovery installed, you can do your flashable file, then update via recovery, that's the way I'm doing usually.
hinnn said:
You can install some of them after you got new official update <security/policy update>,
The signature is different for different model, even same app like device maintenance, you cannot install the apk file from phone s8,s8+
For some independent app like samsung account, samsung themes, you can upgrade with installing the apk from the website you mentioned.
If you have 3rd party recovery installed, you can do your flashable file, then update via recovery, that's the way I'm doing usually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi hinnn,
Thanks for the reply! I really appreciate your info. However, I have a few clarifications:
So Samsung indeed has a security check on the system APKs now to make sure it matches the device? Is the "About" section of the system apps correct after all? I'm on the latest AQI1 firmware with August 2017 security patch, and security policy has "already been updated to the latest version". Could you clarify which update you are referring to? Lastly, what is an "independent app" that you mentioned, and which apps are "independent"? Sorry if I ask too much, I came from installing these system APKs on S7 edge, I do not know about the latest mechanisms in S8 & Note 8.
Edit: I tried installing the latest Air Command APK, which also failed with the same error. But as far as I know, S8 has no S-Pen so no Air Command, correct? This should be for Note 8 yet it didn't install
100055 said:
Hi hinnn,
Thanks for the reply! I really appreciate your info. However, I have a few clarifications:
So Samsung indeed has a security check on the system APKs now to make sure it matches the device? Is the "About" section of the system apps correct after all? I'm on the latest AQI1 firmware with August 2017 security patch, and security policy has "already been updated to the latest version". Could you clarify which update you are referring to? Lastly, what is an "independent app" that you mentioned, and which apps are "independent"? Sorry if I ask too much, I came from installing these system APKs on S7 edge, I do not know about the latest mechanisms in S8 & Note 8.
Edit: I tried installing the latest Air Command APK, which also failed with the same error. But as far as I know, S8 has no S-Pen so no Air Command, correct? This should be for Note 8 yet it didn't install
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, SAMSUNG didn't push through the security policy in that way, usually, we need update to next version like AQI2 or AQJ1, then you can install some of them, otherwise you will get the message saying signature conflict
An existing package by the same name with a conflicting signature is already installed
For "independent app", like standalone app, samsung themes, galaxy apps, samsung account which isn't running with any particular framework , not too much.
P.S. I'm not a professional guy, probably my explainable doesn't make sense, or not correct, just for your information.
Cheers
I have the exact same problem and I didn't find any solution yet. And like you I come from the S7 Edge and I used to update my apps like this. So if someone has any suggestion I take it.
hinnn said:
Actually, SAMSUNG didn't push through the security policy in that way, usually, we need update to next version like AQI2 or AQJ1, then you can install some of them, otherwise you will get the message saying signature conflict
An existing package by the same name with a conflicting signature is already installed
For "independent app", like standalone app, samsung themes, galaxy apps, samsung account which isn't running with any particular framework , not too much.
P.S. I'm not a professional guy, probably my explainable doesn't make sense, or not correct, just for your information.
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the clarifications! After some more observations, it seems that any APK released after 26 September 2017 will not install on Samsung devices running Nougat 7.1.1 (except the 4 mentioned in the first post). However, I do not get the "An existing package by the same name with a conflicting signature is already installed" error, I get "App not installed" error instead as shown by the screenshot.
However, changing the version code and re-signing the APK with APK Editor app will produce "An existing package by the same name with a conflicting signature is already installed" error that you mentioned when attempting to install (which is different from the original error)
As for the "framework" concept, could you elaborate a little further? The "Secure Startup" exploit works on all Samsung devices that were not originally on Nougat, but were later updated to Nougat 7.0. (It might work on the S8 and S8+ too, although I'm not sure about that).
@100055
No problem with this as this problem is solved temp only
for example
there are certain apps which are not stable and yes 1 or 2 are stable out of 98% unstable apps as i tried all apps and saw it was unstable and caused lots of problem
from adb
put the following command and install the apk
adb install -l -r C:\Users\anand\Desktop\soundalive.apk
[use red highlighted command line only. green highlighted line is for reference only]
the app will install but if you reboot your device the update of the apk will be lost and more over the previous app update officially done by Samsung will be wiped you have to reinstall the update from the galaxy app store again
if you dont reboot then its fine being using the app of updated one for example i needed only soundalive.apk till today.. so i update it and wont reboot my device so i enjoy the updated sound quality of it
Amit.A said:
@100055
No problem with this as this problem is solved temp only
for example
there are certain apps which are not stable and yes 1 or 2 are stable out of 98% unstable apps as i tried all apps and saw it was unstable and caused lots of problem
from adb
put the following command and install the apk
adb install -l -r C:\Users\anand\Desktop\soundalive.apk
[use red highlighted command line only. green highlighted line is for reference only]
the app will install but if you reboot your device the update of the apk will be lost and more over the previous app update officially done by Samsung will be wiped you have to reinstall the update from the galaxy app store again
if you dont reboot then its fine being using the app of updated one for example i needed only soundalive.apk till today.. so i update it and wont reboot my device so i enjoy the updated sound quality of it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the solution, it indeed works! But why doesn't the update stay through a reboot though? And why does adding the option -l work?
Thread closed.
Please continue the discussion >>> HERE <<<
Thanks,
Wood Man
Forum Moderator

Stock N910F - de-googled?

Hi all.
Noob here on the forum, my very first post so i am not allowed to post this where i imagine this would belong - the 'Original Android development'. That's why it is posted here.
First of all, i wish to express my sincere gratitude to all you people that work hard on making it possible for rest of us mortals to make the best of those small devices that somehow managed to become so big parts of our lives.. I have been following the forum for a while and been using some things posted here to fiddle with several devices without actually bricking any of them as yet. And this is the first time i felt the need of actually asking for help and/or guidelines.
Anyhew - here's the thing: i still run a N910F on stock marshmallow as my main device. (Please no lectures about this). And lately i came to really, really resent mr.Google. I did make a Lineage version of the Android Pie work together with microG (without google), and that actually is rather sweet, runs smooth as silk. I run that on my backup N910F device. (Ok, so i am a Note 4 freek, sue me).
But for different reasons, actually mainly because i really appreciate the s-pen, i want to continue using stock rom on my daily driver so now i am looking for a google-free version of the stock marshmallow for the N910F (trlte) model. I tried to find it here on the forum, but i couldn't, or i couldn't understand the terminology. Haven't found in the rest of the internet either. So i would appreciate if somebody here could either:
1. point me to the direction of such a version if it's already existing, or
2. give me very specific information as to how i could de-google the stock rom by myself. Either on the device or in Windows. I haven't used adb or fastboot yet, but perhaps i could learn if i don't have to take a class in engineering first…
Or could i simply use Titanium backup and just delete (freeze first of course) all the apps that have 'google' in their name?
The third option is perhaps that some kind sould de-googles the stock rom for me and lets me download it. I would donate, of course.
I would really appreciate all the pointers you could give me.
Regards,
prkfsz
Nope, the N910F stock firmwares are definitely not de-Googled. Flash one for yourself and see. I would recommend flashing a LineageOS/AOSP-based ROM, they are generally Google-free.
If you are really insistent on running stock, then do this to completely de-Google it:
In Titanium backup, search for 'goo', this will find almost all Google apps on the ROM. Uninstall them.
Also, download the latest OpenGapps ARM 6.0 nano zip from opengapps.org. Extract the gapps-remove.txt file from the zip. Use the contents of that file as a reference, find all the files listed in it, manually delete them. The reason for this is that Titanium will miss some things.
Now you should be mostly if not entirely Google-free.
Once you have done that, you can optionally patch your ROM for signature spoofing support, and install MicroG, which is an open source Google Play Services alternative. These 2 steps are optional, your choice.
Very simple. I've done this before, things will work fine overall. But some things (apps) requiring Google components may not work correctly, if at all. MicroG can help mitigate this to an extent. You've been warned.
I'm running Resurrection Remix Nougat v5.8.5 (Android 7.1.2), SPen works fine here. Every app I've tested that can use the pen, works fine. There is really no reason to stay with stock just for pen functionality. I also like the huge amount of customization options that RR has compared to stock. And I can use Substratum (no go on stock) with all black themes, for battery savings.
Thank you! Wasn't aware of the google-remove.txt file within gapps. Will definitelly use it. Otherwise it's like i thought: use Titanium and just go loose on everything that starts with 'go'...
I know about microG and use it regularly. Happy customer…
I do like stock marshmallow on note 4 and want to run it as long as it can go. I will perhaps try the RR nougat you suggested on the backup unit. Even tho i am in no particular need of customisation.
Thanx again.
prkfsz said:
Thank you! Wasn't aware of the google-remove.txt file within gapps. Will definitelly use it. Otherwise it's like i thought: use Titanium and just go loose on everything that starts with 'go'...
I know about microG and use it regularly. Happy customer…
I do like stock marshmallow on note 4 and want to run it as long as it can go. I will perhaps try the RR nougat you suggested on the backup unit. Even tho i am in no particular need of customisation.
Thanx again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might find this of some interest.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/guide-degoogle-device-install-microg-t4058743
I'm afraid i got stuck here and i need a bit further assistance.. :-/
Coming from stock marshmallow on Galaxy Note 4. I uninstalled google things first using Titanium. Then manually cleaned some leftovers using file manager in TWRP (not sure i did the right way), altho it looked quite empty in the /system map. Another time erased just the Google Play-services before going to TWRPs file manager and it looked just as empty. At both occasions i lost auto-rotate. Is this normal?
After deleting all the google (and in the second try only google play services app) i tried just for the heck of it to run the Nanodroid patch file but i got an error message that it couldnt deodex services.jar file, which was pretty much expected. My skills are not sufficient for deodexing files so i tried other approaches for patching. Smalipatcher - the damn thing couldn't even see i had admin privileges in Win no matter what i did and just refused to run alltogether.
Then i tried the link that was put here by @MrJavi in the post above (thank you sir!). Did everything as the tutorial says, got no error message, everything seemed to run smooth and the apps i chose were installed. (altho TWRP did freeze a couple of times during aroma setup so i had to reset by taking out the battery). When i wanted to set up the microG settings, the microG icon and the app is nowhere to be found. The modul named NanoDroid exists and is activ in Magisk, but it's not possible to open it.
Last, but not least of course, i tryied patching with fake gapps module in Xposed, but Xposed of course does not want to play nice with mr.Samsung. Even when i try and run Xposed from Magisk...
Not sure how to proceed from here.. I'm thinking of switching my starting point to the already deodexed version of marshmallow i thought i saw around here, because it would be easier to patch.
If it's still out there available for download, which i don't take for granted anymore nowadays..
But i would like to make it work on my device anyway. So, if anyone has any ideas, they will be so welcome.
Perhaps Samsung knox is causing issues with Xposed framework/installer. The link below is for a different "Samy" but the the Knox remover is a flashablw .zip made specifically for the Note 4 .
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....-how-to-deodex-root-remove-knox-t3458921/amp/
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....al/toad-source-android-deodexer-t3848307/amp/
Always take a full Nandroid backup by checking all partition beforehand and save to your external sd card. You can then choose to flaah an Aroma Google debloater .zip .
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software-hacking/aroma-google-services-debloater-t3668456
Mr. JAVI said:
Perhaps Samsung knox is causing issues with Xposed framework/installer. The link below is for a different "Samy" but the the Knox remover is a flashablw .zip made specifically for the Note 4 .
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....-how-to-deodex-root-remove-knox-t3458921/amp/
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....al/toad-source-android-deodexer-t3848307/amp/
Always take a full Nandroid backup by checking all partition beforehand and save to your external sd card. You can then choose to flaah an Aroma Google debloater .zip .
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software-hacking/aroma-google-services-debloater-t3668456
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wow, those were really some good links! thanks, @mr.javi. However....
tried the first link and to work with firmware but the ext4uninstaller does not want to recognize the ext4 file (wtf??), regardless from where i download the software and regardless what ext4 file and from what firmware (tested a few), and without that part working it was pretty much impossible to go on. So i ran only the deknoxing tool through twrp. No error. But still when i try and install the xposed - boom! it will not boot. Not even damn zip uninstaller for magisk will work as it should..
Tried the second link with the TOAD. Weird: some versions get recognized as malware by my antivirus and windows does not want to run other versions for safety reasons. Strange..
Tried the third and that de-googling script is rather sweet.
But my conclusion from all this is that it is not so hard to exorcise the google, but to patch the rom in the next step... If i understand correctly i have to get the rom deodexed first to be able to patch it with nanodroid?
I tried some deodexing tools on pc, but i'm not really sure if i'm doing it correctly. I take it i have to copy some folders (/apps, /framework and one more) from the phone to the computer to work with them there, but i get error message when i try to copy files through file manager in twrp. Am i supposed to do it some other way? And can you do that directly in the phone? I tried an app called 3c -all in one-toolbox that has native option of deodexing but i get error message there, something about classes i think, i don't remember and i can't see it now cause the phone is just being reflashed..
Any more thoughts and ideas? As usual, grateful for anything you can give me.
AnonVendetta said:
Once you have done that, you can optionally patch your ROM for signature spoofing support, and install MicroG, which is an open source Google Play Services alternative. These 2 steps are optional, your choice.
Very simple. I've done this before, things will work fine overall. But some things (apps) requiring Google components may not work correctly, if at all. MicroG can help mitigate this to an extent. You've been warned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HOW?! did you manage to patch it??
prkfsz said:
wow, those were really some good links! thanks, @mr.javi. However....
tried the first link and to work with firmware but the ext4uninstaller does not want to recognize the ext4 file (wtf??), regardless from where i download the software and regardless what ext4 file and from what firmware (tested a few), and without that part working it was pretty much impossible to go on. So i ran only the deknoxing tool through twrp. No error. But still when i try and install the xposed - boom! it will not boot. Not even damn zip uninstaller for magisk will work as it should..
Tried the second link with the TOAD. Weird: some versions get recognized as malware by my antivirus and windows does not want to run other versions for safety reasons. Strange..
Tried the third and that de-googling script is rather sweet.
But my conclusion from all this is that it is not so hard to exorcise the google, but to patch the rom in the next step... If i understand correctly i have to get the rom deodexed first to be able to patch it with nanodroid?
I tried some deodexing tools on pc, but i'm not really sure if i'm doing it correctly. I take it i have to copy some folders (/apps, /framework and one more) from the phone to the computer to work with them there, but i get error message when i try to copy files through file manager in twrp. Am i supposed to do it some other way? And can you do that directly in the phone? I tried an app called 3c -all in one-toolbox that has native option of deodexing but i get error message there, something about classes i think, i don't remember and i can't see it now cause the phone is just being reflashed..
Any more thoughts and ideas? As usual, grateful for anything you can give me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're very welcome @prkfsz
https://mtkcustomroms.com/deodex-stock-rom-custom-rom-without-pc-2018/
https://how-to-easily-deodex-android-stock-rom-without-pc/
Mr. JAVI said:
You're very welcome @prkfsz
https://mtkcustomroms.com/deodex-stock-rom-custom-rom-without-pc-2018/
https://************/how-to-easily-deodex-android-stock-rom-without-pc/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanx again, @Mr. JAVI! :good:
Both links are about the same app and i've tried that one recently, so it seems like we think rather alike.
I get the exact same error message like the guy that wrote that one comment at the bottom of the second link (error saying "needs rebuild classes.dex").
And strangely enough when i open the deodexing window in the app it says that of the number of apps in the rom not all are odexed (says something like "deodexed 124/187"), which is rather perplexing because it's on the freshly installed stock (from nandroid backup directly after factory reset). So I tried to fool the app and get all the apps odexed first, but that didn't fly either..
Btw, thanks for the advice before - i always back the device upp (all partitions) before messing with it.. I forgot to do that on one device before and instantly regretted it..
-------------------------------------------
Edit: the second link in your last post was dead so i tried to correct it in my message, but xda forum doesn't like that.
Tried to post in the right link here in the message too, but that didn't work either for some reason.
but searching the phrase 'how to easily deodex Android stock rom without pc' will give you the first search result.
Oat2dex.jar
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....eral/tool-deodex-tool-android-l-t2972025/amp/
https://github.com/testwhat/SmaliEx/releases
---------- Post added at 01:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:43 PM ----------
prkfsz said:
Thanx again, @Mr. JAVI! :good:
Both links are about the same app and i've tried that one recently, so it seems like we think rather alike.
I get the exact same error message like the guy that wrote that one comment at the bottom of the second link (error saying "needs rebuild classes.dex").
And strangely enough when i open the deodexing window in the app it says that of the number of apps in the rom not all are odexed (says something like "deodexed 124/187"), which is rather perplexing because it's on the freshly installed stock (from nandroid backup directly after factory reset). So I tried to fool the app and get all the apps odexed first, but that didn't fly either..
Btw, thanks for the advice before - i always back the device upp (all partitions) before messing with it.. I forgot to do that on one device before and instantly regretted it..
-------------------------------------------
Edit: the second link in your last post was dead so i tried to correct it in my message, but xda forum doesn't like that.
Tried to post in the right link here in the message too, but that didn't work either for some reason.
but searching the phrase 'how to easily deodex Android stock rom without pc' will give you the first search result.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to tell you the truth, even a full Nandroid backup couldn't fix a dm-verity/drk issue on one of my Note 4's. Up until then I have always recovered from softbricking my devices. Stubborn as I am, I spent hours and hours and hours o no avail. I connected my other N4 but still kept trying to revive my old N4. It wasn't until a year and a half later, assisting another member that I came across a possible solution and it worked. Spent more time than my old N4 was worth but my record is untarnished non the less. lol I sure hope you never ever encounter either of thoughts @prkfsz .
Mr. JAVI said:
Oat2dex.jar
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....eral/tool-deodex-tool-android-l-t2972025/amp/
https://github.com/testwhat/SmaliEx/releases
---------- Post added at 01:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:43 PM ----------
Well to tell you the truth, even a full Nandroid backup couldn't fix a dm-verity/drk issue on one of my Note 4's. Up until then I have always recovered from softbricking my devices. Stubborn as I am, I spent hours and hours and hours o no avail. I connected my other N4 but still kept trying to revive my old N4. It wasn't until a year and a half later, assisting another member that I came across a possible solution and it worked. Spent more time than my old N4 was worth but my record is untarnished non the less. lol I sure hope you never ever encounter either of thoughts @prkfsz .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And i thought i was stubborn for this, insisting on tweaking an age-old os and spending hours on looking for solutions.. thank you!
Not sure about what that issue you mentioned was, since i'm not really on that experience level, but i'm sure it was a mean one.. lol Good job of fixing it! I ended up a few times in similar situations (not with that high level issues apparently) and i just couldn't let go untill i resolved them or bricked them completelly... Luckily haven't bricked anything even tho i play mostly with older devices so it wouldn't be such a waste. But as you too apparently feel - unblemished record is a matter of pride..
And yes, i too recently understood that nandroid backup isn't allmighty - it can't for instance save certain safety settings, fingerprints and such. I always thought of nandroid backup like a 'clone' feature on PC. Loved that..
Aanyhew - back to business.
I hit the wall here again, the same one as with Fulmics deodexer. It's not that it isn't working, it's that i don't know how to point it to the right maps for deodexing.
As far as i understand, i have to copy those 3 folders from the phone to the PC, do the deodexing on the pc, and then move back to the phone and replace the original folders. Is this correct? I tried doing this in TWRPs file manager using micro sd card, but i gott error message that it wouldn't copy all the files for some reason. Should i use some other method of copying those folders to the PC?
Perhaps a stupid question but is there any way to let the deodexer on the pc find the folders directly on the phone?
As always - a huge thank you from the struggling noob, @Mr. JAVI. :good:
Perhaps this is the Xposed framework and installer that might be compatible with your N910f
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4/themes-apps/unofficial-xposed-v87-3-magisk-v18-t3897017/amp/
As far as TWRP you might be able to patch it and save internal data with Tipatch apk. The drawback is you backups will be much larger.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....pp-twrp-tipatch-backup-internal-t3831217/amp/
PS: Thsnks for the compliment my friend but I'm still learning. Modifications is just a hobby of mine. We learn from each other here on XDA.
PC : skills are not my strong point . Your skills with PC far
exceed your ability. I actually bought a laptop years ago, just so I could flash TWRP Odin and root . The complete ssd laptop cost alot more than my Note 4. I port or create my own flashable .zips. Although, I've never been faced with having to deodex a custom rom, simply because there readily available from the developers on xda for the n910p. Sucks there hasn't been one developed for your n910f.
Something posted by @IBNobody
"Anything past Magisk v15.3 will not pass SafetyNet on QI5.*
Magisk v15.4+ added a check in its Magiskhide subsystem that looks a service (logd) to be loaded. That service is not running on our stock or slightly modified QI5 build. If this service check fails, Magiskhide does not get loaded. If Magiskhide is not running, it can't hide Magisk from the SafetyNet checks.
(You'll know if this is affecting you because the Magisk Manager app won't remember any settings you make in the Magisk Hide tab.)*
Our only options are:
1. Build our own fork of Magisk that skips this check.
2. Enable logd by modifying the init.rc file in boot.img. (logd is commented out. I have not tried un-commenting it.)
3. Remain on v15.3."
DQ15 is the Sprint firmware 6.0.1 and not n910f but it could be the same with yours as well.
A slightly lower version Xpoaed framework api 23
https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=529152257862685344
Mr. JAVI said:
Perhaps this is the Xposed framework and installer that might be compatible with your N910f
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4/themes-apps/unofficial-xposed-v87-3-magisk-v18-t3897017/amp/
As far as TWRP you might be able to patch it and save internal data with Tipatch apk. The drawback is you backups will be much larger.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/forum....pp-twrp-tipatch-backup-internal-t3831217/amp/
PS: Thsnks for the compliment my friend but I'm still learning. Modifications is just a hobby of mine. We learn from each other here on XDA.
PC : skills are not my strong point . Your skills with PC far
exceed your ability. I actually bought a laptop years ago, just so I could flash TWRP Odin and root . The complete ssd laptop cost alot more than my Note 4. I port or create my own flashable .zips. Although, I've never been faced with having to deodex a custom rom, simply because there readily available from the developers on xda for the n910p. Sucks there hasn't been one developed for your n910f.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Laptop cost way over Note 4? I see i'm not the only one..... ehh, let's say determined bloke around here haha.. Hope it was worth it.. And btw creating your own flashable zips is way above my level of skills, i can tell you that, my friend. Never did that, nor am i planning to. But since i am stubborn (or so i've heard.. lol) and i feel uttermost distaste for mrGoogle and, like you said, noone has apparently done the deodexing the stock N910F - I am simply forced to take matters into my own hands. Flashing a pie and microG is ... apparently too easy. Besides, i am already running that on one of my spare Note 4s.. And i appreciate xda, just like you say people can give each other a hand. What i dislike tho is lots of dead download links... Oh, well..
ok, back to business again.
I guess i am going to need a more detailed help now.
I tried with that version of Framework you linked to. At that page the link for Xposed installer app for Magisk is dead. Tried to play a little with the other file, the version 87.3 of Xposed and just flashed it in TWRP, but nothing happens.
As far as the Tipatch, excuse my ignorance but i have to ask here: what difference would it make for deodexing to be able to copy internal storage? I am thinking it's other folders that need to be copied, like /system.
Apart from that, i love the idea of Tipatch! Will install it anyway.
--------------------------------------------------------
I am beginning to realize that there are not many reasonable options left, since i'm not sure it is worth much more time and effort on my part. I am not going to be an engineer over this..
So there is but one more question to perhaps get solved before i run out of options and go with custom Pie anyway.
And that is - how do i copy the needed 3 folders intact to PC for deodexing software? I can't find that information anywhere together with this pc based deodexers.
Oh well. I have vague memory of ES file manager being mentioned somewhere. So i guess that will be my last attempt before i give up. Unless some new solution emerges.
Mr. JAVI said:
Something posted by @IBNobody
"Anything past Magisk v15.3 will not pass SafetyNet on QI5.*
Magisk v15.4+ added a check in its Magiskhide subsystem that looks a service (logd) to be loaded. That service is not running on our stock or slightly modified QI5 build. If this service check fails, Magiskhide does not get loaded. If Magiskhide is not running, it can't hide Magisk from the SafetyNet checks.
(You'll know if this is affecting you because the Magisk Manager app won't remember any settings you make in the Magisk Hide tab.)*
Our only options are:
1. Build our own fork of Magisk that skips this check.
2. Enable logd by modifying the init.rc file in boot.img. (logd is commented out. I have not tried un-commenting it.)
3. Remain on v15.3."
DQ15 is the Sprint firmware 6.0.1 and not n910f but it could be the same with yours as well.
A slightly lower version Xpoaed framework api 23
https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=529152257862685344
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, i managed to actually copy the system directory from the phone to the pc using Root explorer app. And none of the deodexers work. Fulmics says it needs smali and baksmali versions over 2.2 even tho i fed it with versions 2.4. SVADeodexerforart runs through all the files without actually doing anything. Logfile shows error 'cannot acces jar file' on all 300+ files.
So i believe this is it for me at this point. I just can't see how further struggle would be meaningsfull since it would just take even more time and i already invested way too much of it on this. But i guess being stubborn has it's price.. :silly:
I want to extend my sincere gratitude, @Mr. JAVI, for your patience, tips and guidelines. I think if it wasn't for you i would given up much quicker.. Which perhaps would've been a smart thing to do... But i wouldn't learn anything..
We will probably bump into each other more times here, since we seem to share the common affection towards a certain gadget.
all the best to you
prkfsz said:
Ok, i managed to actually copy the system directory from the phone to the pc using Root explorer app. And none of the deodexers work. Fulmics says it needs smali and baksmali versions over 2.2 even tho i fed it with versions 2.4. SVADeodexerforart runs through all the files without actually doing anything. Logfile shows error 'cannot acces jar file' on all 300+ files.
So i believe this is it for me at this point. I just can't see how further struggle would be meaningsfull since it would just take even more time and i already invested way too much of it on this. But i guess being stubborn has it's price.. :silly:
I want to extend my sincere gratitude, @Mr. JAVI, for your patience, tips and guidelines. I think if it wasn't for you i would given up much quicker.. Which perhaps would've been a smart thing to do... But i wouldn't learn anything..
We will probably bump into each other more times here, since we seem to share the common affection towards a certain gadget.
all the best to you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am just one of the "common folk". One of my hobbies is modifying my rooted Note 4. I have learned from my failures as well. The creating custom zips is not as hard as you think, in fact it was a failed camera .zip fash that ended in FC's. I came up with an idea to take the previous working camera .zip. left the meta-imf and replaced tge rest with an N7 camera from another rom and fkashed it. It's much easier explained with screen shots.
One of my favourite apps is ZArchiver apk. Downliad it and you'll see why. Ext4, tar, zip, roms, jar, apks and more. Freaking Awesome!!!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...pk&pcampaignid=APPU_1_YUIBX4STE-aD9PwPh7ylmAg
Its like gold and did I mention free? lol
Welcome to XDA @prkfsz
Mr. JAVI said:
I am just one of the "common folk". One of my hobbies is modifying my rooted Note 4. I have learned from my failures as well. The creating custom zips is not as hard as you think, in fact it was a failed camera .zip fash that ended in FC's. I came up with an idea to take the previous working camera .zip. left the meta-imf and replaced tge rest with an N7 camera from another rom and fkashed it. It's much easier explained with screen shots.
One of my favourite apps is ZArchiver apk. Downliad it and you'll see why. Ext4, tar, zip, roms, jar, apks and more. Freaking Awesome!!!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...pk&pcampaignid=APPU_1_YUIBX4STE-aD9PwPh7ylmAg
Its like gold and did I mention free? lol
Welcome to XDA @prkfsz
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why thank you good sir, @Mr. JAVI! :good:
Every noob should get this friendly a welcome..
See? All that meta-inf, FC-talk is a bit over my lever right now. But i will check out your tool. Might come in handy for some future project. And free it is you say? Sold! haha
As for this project i had, i had to abandon it for now. I realized it wasn't the degoogling that was the problem, but the patching afterwards, and the deodexing that turned out to be downright impossible to get done. And it just gotten too time-consuming in relation to how much time i actually have and how much win i would get out of it. So i took the easy way for now and i went with the custom Pie. I do want the audio from the headphones..
@prkfsz: I used Tingle patch to integrate signature spoofing. You have a few options:
Tingle patch (requires deodexed framework.jar)
Needle patch (requires deodexed framework.jar)
Nanodroid patcher (requires deodexed services.jar)
Haystack patch (requires deodexed services.jar)
Smali patcher (services.jar can be odexed or deodexed, it will deodex and patch the file for you)
FakeGApps (requires Xposed)
Options 1/2/4/5 require a PC. Options 3/6 can be done on device without PC.
Hope this helps!
I don't really have a lot of time to go into detail, but if either of you are looking for a comprehensive way to properly deodex a ROM, check out SuperR's Kitchen. There a free and paid/donate versions. The free version can do what you want just fine.
I had recently used this to deodex the latest stock MM UK firmware for the N910F. In addition to deodexing, the Kitchen can also customize your ROM, and even build a zip that you can flash in TWRP. It flashed and booted fine for me. Once you have done this, you can debloat the ROM (or let the Kitchen do it for you). It won't remove all Google stuff by default, but you can configure it to delete pretty much any file/directory in the system partition. My advice is to use the Kitchen's debloater/Knox removal features, then use gapps-remove.txt and a root file manager to delete the rest. Once you have debloated/deodexed, you can then easily signature spoof patch with any of the tools I mentioned in my previous post.
I have also discovered that you can also run the Tingle patch without a PC, by using QPython3 app. Just supply the deodexed framework.jar and build.prop, it will do the rest. Grab the Tingle master zip from GitHub, unpack it into QPython3's scripts directory on the internal storage, then provide the 2 files into input folder, and run main.py from within the app. You will find the patched jar file in output folder, replace your ROM's framework.jar with the patched one. Use Signature Spoofing Checker to confirm that it worked. I don't think root is required, but it's better to have it anyway, just enable root in QPython3 settings.
Some last notes: don't use Titanium to debloat Google apps, it may also remove some needed shared library files that Android uses. Namely, a library file called libgnustl_shared.so, which will cause autorotation to not work. Use Titanium to determine the locations of Google apps, then delete them manually. This will keep the shared library files while still deleting the apps. On top of this, use gapps-remove.txt.
But while you are debloating, there may be 2 Google apps present that you should not remove, period:
/system/app/WebViewGoogle
/system/priv-app/GooglePackageInstaller
The first is needed by Android and apps to provide webview functionality (this might not sound important, but it is). The 2nd is needed to install apps, remove it and you won't be able to install any app from anywhere (Play Store, manual APK install, etc).
On the subject of Xposed, do *NOT* install the Xposed installer from the Magisk Manager downloads. It isn't designed to work on stock Samsung MM firmware, you won't be able to boot. Use the custom Xposed by wanam (available on XDA). Or you can google for "Xposed kevintm78", this will come up with an AndroidFileHost link that you can install from Magisk. The latter is just a systemless Magisk version of Wanam's Xposed.

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