I'm a little late on the news for this, but I just recently seen on my device that there will eventually be a cut-off on how much storage can be used. I then learned that the Pixel brand of phones (at least a couple of them) will have a few ways to maintain unlimited storage whether it be a reduction in the quality or an older model phone. While it won't kill me to switch platform, I've got 5+ years of photos and videos on here backed up and most of them separated into their own respected categories/albums so I would like the ask the people that are smarter than I am:
Is it possible to either spoof something like BlueStacks into thinking that my device is a google pixel and upload them through there? or maybe a modified version of the app that believes the device it's on is a Pixel? From the little bit of research that I've done, the link between being able to upload as much as you want or not isn't within the email itself, it's simply the device that Photos is run on. Be nice. all input is welcome though, via more speculations, links to other workarounds, where to put this, etc.
It's possible I think. A friend did this to get Pixel 2 unlimited original quality storage back in the day. I think it involves rooting and editing build.props to make it look like your phone is a Pixel. There are apps that do that in rooted phones afaik.
_Kalyan said:
It's possible I think. A friend did this to get Pixel 2 unlimited original quality storage back in the day. I think it involves rooting and editing build.props to make it look like your phone is a Pixel. There are apps that do that in rooted phones afaik.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it doesn't work anymore
iSupakilla said:
I'm a little late on the news for this, but I just recently seen on my device that there will eventually be a cut-off on how much storage can be used. I then learned that the Pixel brand of phones (at least a couple of them) will have a few ways to maintain unlimited storage whether it be a reduction in the quality or an older model phone. While it won't kill me to switch platform, I've got 5+ years of photos and videos on here backed up and most of them separated into their own respected categories/albums so I would like the ask the people that are smarter than I am:
Is it possible to either spoof something like BlueStacks into thinking that my device is a google pixel and upload them through there? or maybe a modified version of the app that believes the device it's on is a Pixel? From the little bit of research that I've done, the link between being able to upload as much as you want or not isn't within the email itself, it's simply the device that Photos is run on. Be nice. all input is welcome though, via more speculations, links to other workarounds, where to put this, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just install Lineage OS custom rom on your phone (if it's supported) and then in the settings menu, it does have the option of spoofing photos app into thinking that you're on a pixel device.
khatriaditya said:
just install Lineage OS custom rom on your phone (if it's supported) and then in the settings menu, it does have the option of spoofing photos app into thinking that you're on a pixel device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, I actually forgot about this post. Funnily enough, now I'm on a rooted Google Pixel 6. It seems like after the 5 they got rid unlimited storage but give me the paid features of Google Photos for free. Would the LineageOS still work? And is that a straightforward change or is there a lot of backend stuff that needs done?
I purchased a first gen Pixel phone for this purpose. That's as genuine as it can get. No need to spoof or do anything to make it work. I just transfer all the photos to the Pixel 1 and let it do its thing.
There are multiple methods of doing this. Most people recommend using Syncthing.
I use FTP Server on the Pixel 1 and FolderSync on my current phone. FolderSync transfers the entire folder so if you don't want that, there are also apps like PhotoSync that can pick and choose specific photos/videos you want to transfer.
swangjang said:
I purchased a first gen Pixel phone for this purpose. That's as genuine as it can get. No need to spoof or do anything to make it work. I just transfer all the photos to the Pixel 1 and let it do its thing.
There are multiple methods of doing this. Most people recommend using Syncthing.
I use FTP Server on the Pixel 1 and FolderSync on my current phone. FolderSync transfers the entire folder so if you don't want that, there are also apps like PhotoSync that can pick and choose specific photos/videos you want to transfer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After the last comment, I dug around a bit more and I've found a solution (for rooted devices) Pixelify in the LSexposed framework I believe? Installing this allows me to essentially spoof the device I have to trick Google Photos into thinking I have any device from the Pixel 1 to the 6A. I have it set for the 5 and it's been working great. Only allows reduced quality to be unlimited but better than nothing (unless an older one allows unlimited full quality?)
iSupakilla said:
After the last comment, I dug around a bit more and I've found a solution (for rooted devices) Pixelify in the LSexposed framework I believe? Installing this allows me to essentially spoof the device I have to trick Google Photos into thinking I have any device from the Pixel 1 to the 6A. I have it set for the 5 and it's been working great. Only allows reduced quality to be unlimited but better than nothing (unless an older one allows unlimited full quality?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pixel 1 allows unlimited original quality, which is why I bought that one. I have heard of Pixelify mod but decided not to use it. Just personal preference.
swangjang said:
Pixel 1 allows unlimited original quality, which is why I bought that one. I have heard of Pixelify mod but decided not to use it. Just personal preference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate you, I swapped to the XL and it did indeed give unlimited original quality. If you don't mind though, why don't you use it? Just curious
iSupakilla said:
I appreciate you, I swapped to the XL and it did indeed give unlimited original quality. If you don't mind though, why don't you use it? Just curious
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It spoofed my Pixel 5 as Pixel 6 (you mentioned that it can spoof to anything between 1 to 6 but at the time of my usage, it only spoofed to Pixel 6) and I didn't like my device showing up as 6. If I needed to reset and restore from a backup, my newly reset phone will show up in the system as Pixel 5, meanwhile my backups will be under Pixel 6 so it won't restore. I know there are root backup apps like Swift Backup but it was just too much hassle.
iSupakilla said:
After the last comment, I dug around a bit more and I've found a solution (for rooted devices) Pixelify in the LSexposed framework I believe? Installing this allows me to essentially spoof the device I have to trick Google Photos into thinking I have any device from the Pixel 1 to the 6A. I have it set for the 5 and it's been working great. Only allows reduced quality to be unlimited but better than nothing (unless an older one allows unlimited full quality?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you choose Pixel 5?
I tried fresh installing pixelify 2.1 and 2.2 on NoxPlayer and Bluestacks emulators but photos still count against quota.
bomberb17 said:
How did you choose Pixel 5?
I tried fresh installing pixelify 2.1 and 2.2 on NoxPlayer and Bluestacks emulators but photos still count against quota.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry, I can't give you much help. I happened to already have a Pixel 6 not that I'm sure it does anything. Aside from that I just installed the latest app and there was a drop down with all the options there for me and I haven't noticed any space being taken, it also tells me that original quality is being backed up and doesn't even allow me to choose lower quality
Related
Hey folks,
I just bought 3 Moto X4 Android One phones directly from Google Fi for my wife & kids to replace their aging Samsung J3 phones (2016). I'm prepping their phones now before wrapping (screen protector, bumper cases, Micro SD cards stuffed with music, charging the batteries, etc). I couldn't find the latest factory image to flash directly, so I've been installing the updates one by one (6 hours & counting, sheesh!)
The question I'm asking is: should I updated them to the latest version of Oreo (OPWS28.3.5), then root with Magisk & disable OTA (by removing the update app with a root uninstaller)? Once I hand over the phones, I will probably never be able to do any maintenance on them (one of my girls is in college, the other is a teen and needs her privacy). The main reason for rooting is to install AdAway. However, I don't want them to have issues with apps that detect root (such as Netflix, Pokemon Go, banking apps, etc).
Or I can hand over the phones as-is and they will have to deal with ads.
I want them to have the latest security updates, however I also want them to have a pleasant browsing experience like I have on my rooted Pixel 2.
Thoughts?
Same question here.
Retail version.
Wondering if I should root now or wait for pie. I've never owned a phone this long without rooting it (2 months! Lol). But been happy with it so far.
I just miss the customization features.
And losing space on internal fast (from a/b I've read).
So wait or go for it now?
Blokada is a good alternative to AdAway, it routes the whole wifi and mobile traffic through a hosts file like a vpn but without connecting to another server. Just whitelist Play Store and Google Drive (if it's used), in my blacklist is only MVPS enabled.. and yeah it works really great
https://blokada.org/
stovo06 said:
And losing space on internal fast (from a/b I've read).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't know about this...after looking it up, I found it's called Seamless Updates, and its a real pain for ROM developers. I was wondering why the ROM scene on the Pixel 2 was so small as compared to, say the Nexus 5. Well, its a good thing I got them 32GB micro SD cards, they will need it for the insane amount of photos they take lol
Zokhii said:
Blokada is a good alternative to AdAway, it routes the whole wifi and mobile traffic through a hosts file like a vpn but without connecting to another server. Just whitelist Play Store and Google Drive (if it's used), in my blacklist is only MVPS enabled.. and yeah it works really great
https://blokada.org/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great tip!!! Thanks, I'm going to go try it out now.
To get the latest OTA update on a rooted X4, I flashed the most recent available firmware (from Sept or Oct I believe; it doesn't have to be the absolute latest as updates are inclusive, but a full Android version change is probably another story), let the OTA come in, then re-pushed recovery and root. All in, it took under an hour. If your kids do not quite have the technical prowess to do this, I would suggest leaving them un-rooted. They will get very annoyed at the "OTA update available!" notification that never goes away.
Hopefully the alternative ad blocker Zokhii suggested works out for you.
booting into TWRP will break the ota update
Installing adblocker is a pretty stupid reason to root if you're going to hand the phone to some people that have never even heard of XDA before. I've been on this site for... what? At least 6 years now. I *program* on the six phones that I have. And *I* haven't rooted my phone because I haven't needed to. I just use the Brave Browser that has adblock built-in. That's a wrap.
Just hand them the phones with a bow on top and hope nobody gave you a tie.
Brave Browser doesn't block in-app banner ads, which can be a security risk on par with "handing a rooted device over to a novice" because there are plenty of malicious ads using socially-targeted messages designed to trick the user into giving up personal or account information. And although it can be argued that it's best to just teach people to not click on ads, I'd rather spend the time teaching them other things like how to be a responsible
administrator.
How does that meme go with the Joker? " Give someone a Windows laptop with adminstrative privileges & no one bats an eye, give someone a rooted Android device & everyone loses their mind".
I ended up installing Blokada & it seems to do a great job of blocking most ads ( doesn't block Facebook Messenger ads, but then neither does Adaway).
Don't do it..once you unlock the bootloader it can't be relocked.
The only reason I unlock a bootloader and root are for custom ROMs. There simply isn't enough development for this phone to justify the hassle IMO.
A30N said:
Brave Browser doesn't block in-app banner ads, which can be a security risk on par with "handing a rooted device over to a novice" because there are plenty of malicious ads using socially-targeted messages designed to trick the user into giving up personal or account information. And although it can be argued that it's best to just teach people to not click on ads, I'd rather spend the time teaching them other things like how to be a responsible
administrator.
How does that meme go with the Joker? " Give someone a Windows laptop with adminstrative privileges & no one bats an eye, give someone a rooted Android device & everyone loses their mind".
I ended up installing Blokada & it seems to do a great job of blocking most ads ( doesn't block Facebook Messenger ads, but then neither does Adaway).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do believe... for your family... a warranty would be FAR more useful than an adblocker...
And have you actually USED Brave lately? I use it everyday... (in fact... I'm using it right now) and *I* haven't seen any banner ads. I think it does a pretty good job.
A30N said:
Didn't know about this...after looking it up, I found it's called Seamless Updates, and its a real pain for ROM developers. I was wondering why the ROM scene on the Pixel 2 was so small as compared to, say the Nexus 5. Well, its a good thing I got them 32GB micro SD cards, they will need it for the insane amount of photos they take lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not a dev, however, I thought this a good thing.
Yes it eats Data. Yes, it's different and most likely scares people (developers) off (it sure scared me before I began reading about it).
But it can really save your ass from what I've read. Any issues and you can jump back to the previous ROM. I am guessing this is what gives us Project Treble support (unofficial I think but still have it).
Plus I have a 128 gig external and they are super cheap. And I am reading about the next falgships having 1Tb of storage?
A30N said:
Hey folks,
I just bought 3 Moto X4 Android One phones directly from Google Fi for my wife & kids to replace their aging Samsung J3 phones (2016). I'm prepping their phones now before wrapping (screen protector, bumper cases, Micro SD cards stuffed with music, charging the batteries, etc). I couldn't find the latest factory image to flash directly, so I've been installing the updates one by one (6 hours & counting, sheesh!)
The question I'm asking is: should I updated them to the latest version of Oreo (OPWS28.3.5), then root with Magisk & disable OTA (by removing the update app with a root uninstaller)? Once I hand over the phones, I will probably never be able to do any maintenance on them (one of my girls is in college, the other is a teen and needs her privacy). The main reason for rooting is to install AdAway. However, I don't want them to have issues with apps that detect root (such as Netflix, Pokemon Go, banking apps, etc).
Or I can hand over the phones as-is and they will have to deal with ads.
I want them to have the latest security updates, however I also want them to have a pleasant browsing experience like I have on my rooted Pixel 2.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In pie update u can easily block ads by changing default dns with adguard dns. No need for root and third party app :fingers-crossed::fingers-crossed:
Definitely read the FAQs thread for one stop shop info. You can flash latest Android Pie image with locked bootloader and once you unlock bootloader, twrp can be installed along with Magisk anytime no matter which version of firmware you're on.
But to your original question, rooting is up to you. We're a small audience compared to the mass phone users that just need a phone. I'm a must have root. Once your unlocked bootloader, install twrp, and root, it breaks official OTAs. You'll have to wait for full image to become available to flash minus the "erase userdata" to update and keep all internal data.
https://www.xda-developers.com/android-q-storage-access-framework-scoped-storage/
... Looks like porting old pie roms to new phones is going to become a thing
According to what I've read, it would be very easy to build a workaround for it, especially considering Google already has a workaround in place until Q apps are enforced in Google Play.
Also looks like it might be a pain in the ass
I cannot believe what I just read. I wasn't aware this was coming and I couldn't despise the decision more.
Proper access to the file system was for me one of the main advantages Android offered over iOS.
Way to go, Google...
I think this is the best move Google made for security thus far. Too many apps ask for full unfettered access to my storage. I will be happy when apps get a little bit more locked down in this aspect.
Scott said:
I think this is the best move Google made for security thus far. Too many apps ask for full unfettered access to my storage. I will be happy when apps get a little bit more locked down in this aspect.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not even just storage, it's to everything these days. Why does the app for my Apex Fusion interface on my reef tank need access to contacts and text messages?
On topic, I agree 100% with you.
Those tears in my eyes... yeah not because of the blue light in the middle of the night here... because of what I read... agree +1
I personally think it's a good move. I don't use a lot of apps because of their required permissions.
Well if you can disable Q's "scooped storage" on per app basis with adb shell then it's easy to write a script that enables general storage for every app.
Sent from my OnePlus 6T through Tapatalk
hank81 said:
Well if you can disable Q's "scooped storage" on per app basis with adb shell then it's easy to write a script that enables general storage for every app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, but I'm sure eventually, just like with most every other special permission these days, you will wind up having to enable it on every boot.
Yes, the entire bug report is atrocious, but let's not get our pitchforks just yet. Google effectively punted on this for Android Q, by making it possible to contribute business as usual. It's quite possible that these issues will be resolved by Android P, or even that the whole idea will be scrapped in favor of something else.
The fact of the matter is that storage permissions in Android are terrible, Trying to address that is not in and of itself a bad thing, in fact I would argue that part alone is a good thing.
Attempting to read the tea leaves a little, this whole project reeks of "new hotshot product manager with poor (at best) understanding of the technical complexities at play forces bad decision into product because he needs to make 'highly visible' changes to the product to demonstrate his worth or get himself promoted". Especially given that the general idea at play isn't the part people are complaining about, just the fact that it's currently technically unusable as a posix api replacement, but the fact that the current one they have is terrible/slow/etc I find the above scenario to be highly likely
partcyborg said:
Attempting to read the tea leaves a little, this whole project reeks of "new hotshot product manager with poor (at best) understanding of the technical complexities at play forces bad decision into product because he needs to make 'highly visible' changes to the product to demonstrate his worth or get himself promoted". Especially given that the general idea at play isn't the part people are complaining about, just the fact that it's currently technically unusable as a posix api replacement, but the fact that the current one they have is terrible/slow/etc I find the above scenario to be highly likely
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats deep!
Scott said:
Thats deep!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lots of adult beverages to come up with this ?
Ayahuasca ?
Scott said:
I think this is the best move Google made for security thus far. Too many apps ask for full unfettered access to my storage. I will be happy when apps get a little bit more locked down in this aspect.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't get this. Correct me if I'm wrong, but can't you already disable specific permission for every app through system settings? Unless something like a wallpaper app refuses to work without access to your phone's contacts or something. Do you get what I'm saying?
roaduardo said:
I don't get this. Correct me if I'm wrong, but can't you already disable specific permission for every app through system settings? Unless something like a wallpaper app refuses to work without access to your phone's contacts or something. Do you get what I'm saying?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not exactly. Storage access in the current world is a binary yes/no decision (well, 2 binary yes/no decisions if your device has a SD card slot), either "yes here is access to all of /sdcard" or "no you can't read or write to anything outside your specific app data folder". Using something like the API gives you the ability to do much more fine grained access like "give Poweramp access to my normal music collection in /sdcard/Music, but not my keepassxc password file.", Or "let photos index all the pics it finds on my machine, except for the ones in a 'certain' telegram folder".
The cause for pitchforks in the bug report isn't that people are in love with the posix apis for file access, just that the current Android API implementation is something like 50x slower in Android Q, making it essentially useless for file manager apps that need to do things like directory listings and maintain indexes of all shared storage, etc.
Found a couple of handy articles listing most of the bloat packages in Galaxy phones:
How to Remove Samsung Galaxy S20 Bloatware? - KrispiTech
How to Remove Samsung Bloatware without Root (ADB)
If you want to remove bloatware on your Samsung Galaxy S10, S20, Note 10 or Galaxy Tab, here is a list of safe to remove Samsung bloatware.
technastic.com
more tips and ready to use scripts:
Ultimate Samsung S9 and S9+ Debloat Guide
The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ are truly fantastic flagship phones – unfortunately they do come with a bit of bloatware, either from your carrier or
appuals.com
Thanks, looks good. What happens on updates and factory reset, does everything get restored again?
anro15 said:
Thanks, looks good. What happens on updates and factory reset, does everything get restored again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OTG updates and rebooting won't change anything, what's uninstalled will stay uninstalled, but factory reset will reset the phone to its original 'factory' condition.
thanks for this, very helpful
does any one know if these lists to debloat are broken down into usable groups to warn if you intend to use a certain a certain application , eg samsung pay you cannot remove the following items, etc. I've had issues in the past that removing a few items caused others to malfunction. i just don't want to get debloat happy and cause kept items to fail.
johnp357 said:
does any one know if these lists to debloat are broken down into usable groups to warn if you intend to use a certain a certain application , eg samsung pay you cannot remove the following items, etc. I've had issues in the past that removing a few items caused others to malfunction. i just don't want to get debloat happy and cause kept items to fail.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ppl have different priorities, a relevant app for someone might be disregarded by others so you have to do it on your own. Best way to find out is to google the entire package name "com.xxxx.xxxxx.etc..." and look for the answers.
Wouldn't it be nice if Samsung acted like a respectable manufacturer and not some back alley pimp?
It's not like these junk filled phones are cheap.
blackhawk said:
Wouldn't it be nice if Samsung acted like a respectable manufacturer and not some back alley pimp?
It's not like these junk filled phones are cheap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know I have bought package disabler pro something like twice. With my S21 ultra (which I decided to keep - pathetic me) has anybody had experience with using it with Android 11? I don't want to throw money at them again although it has worked well in the past.
peterg21 said:
I know I have bought package disabler pro something like twice. With my S21 ultra (which I decided to keep - pathetic me) has anybody had experience with using it with Android 11? I don't want to throw money at them again although it has worked well in the past.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm running a 10+/Pie. This is the one I've been using for years with no issues.
Home - Package Disabler
The only NON-root solution that let’s you disable any unwanted packages that come pre-installed / installed with your phone / tablet.
www.packagedisabler.com
blackhawk said:
I'm running a 10+/Pie. This is the one I've been using for years with no issues.
Home - Package Disabler
The only NON-root solution that let’s you disable any unwanted packages that come pre-installed / installed with your phone / tablet.
www.packagedisabler.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK. That is the one I have seen outside the play store but was somewhat reticent to buy. But not expensive - not going to bankrupt me - so let me try this. Thanks (for the moment )
peterg21 said:
OK. That is the one I have seen outside the play store but was somewhat reticent to buy. But not expensive - not going to bankrupt me - so let me try this. Thanks (for the moment
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All appears fine as before with this app. Disabled what I normally disable. Let's see how this works out.
peterg21 said:
All appears fine as before with this app. Disabled what I normally disable. Let's see how this works out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a very useful app. It allows you to set a widget that when an entry is checked it will toggle the apk(s) on/off by touching the widget
Uses very little battery. Runs clean and stable.
Something else unique about it is for troubleshooting when you clear an apk's data it leaves no nulls (presumably) behind.
It can completely clear a system apk's data that clearing the data in Settings will not.
That saved me a reload once and also allowed me to isolate the system apk that was causing the issue.
My Verizon branded hardly had anything on it out of the box. The second it hit the internet I got about 15 games and a ton of crap out of the blue.
What is Verizon calling that DT ignite app now? I can't find it.
felloffthetruck said:
My Verizon branded hardly had anything on it out of the box. The second it hit the internet I got about 15 games and a ton of crap out of the blue.
What is Verizon calling that DT ignite app now? I can't find it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Package block Verizon updates. That's what I do with my AT&T 10+ variant.
It continues to run fast and happily on Pie.
Not missing Q one little bit or using excessive bits to get a file opened!
felloffthetruck said:
My Verizon branded hardly had anything on it out of the box. The second it hit the internet I got about 15 games and a ton of crap out of the blue.
What is Verizon calling that DT ignite app now? I can't find it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you disabled Verizon App Manager within the settings. I had the same issue you did. From Google-ing around, I found that this app can install apps without your permission (according to reddit)
mprunty said:
Have you disabled Verizon App Manager within the settings. I had the same issue you did. From Google-ing around, I found that this app can install apps without your permission (according to reddit)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, just found it and disabled it.
felloffthetruck said:
Yes, just found it and disabled it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't disable updates Verizon can alter your firmware as they see fit.
Verizon like AT&T are partnered with Samsung, let that stink in for a few seconds.
Verizon gives active input to firmware updates from Samsung. To the point were the interface may be quite different from a stock Samsung... and not necessarily for the better.
The last updates are usually the worst; been there, done that.
Not taking that ride again
blackhawk said:
I'm running a 10+/Pie. This is the one I've been using for years with no issues.
Home - Package Disabler
The only NON-root solution that let’s you disable any unwanted packages that come pre-installed / installed with your phone / tablet.
www.packagedisabler.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i just purchased it but am scared id disable something and mess **** up. is there a tutorial somewhere where it shows what to disable and what to keep in order to things to run smooth aswell. ty
kazlow said:
i just purchased it but am scared id disable something and mess **** up. is there a tutorial somewhere where it shows what to disable and what to keep in order to things to run smooth aswell. ty
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What works for one person may not work for another as there many variants of the same model.
It's best if you try to learn what the apk you're disabling does. Some have dependencies.
Some will boot loop the device if not able to run on boot up. I'm also using Karma Firewall so sometimes instead of disabling an apk I simply firewall block it to retain better functionality and ease of use. I have no easy solution that fits all. Learn by doing.
You should always be ready to do a reload with all critical your data backed up.
It's rarely needed but it can be needed at any moment with little or no warning.
That said I've never crashed an OS using a package disabler however your results may vary
I use my SD card as a data drive. I can do a full restore anywhere, anytime with little or no internet connection in about 2 hours.
Without an SD card your backup alternatives are less attractive...
There is literally zero data showing that debloating brings a any value or efficency at all
Hey all,
I purchased my new 5a after seeing various headlines about how the Google Dialer would allow you to opt in to automatic call recording. That's incredibly helpful for my job, and a major reason why I've kept my OnePlus 6 for the past few years, but now the battery is barely getting through half the day.
It looks like Google is restricting auto calls to outside the US, which sucks because I live in a one-party consent state and always ask for permission to record.
Magisk could be the answer since it has a few modules for other Pixels to get auto call recording. However, do we know if we can apply the same method for Magisking the 5 to the 5a? I figure it may carry over because these two devices are so similar in specs and software, but I'd like to make sure before getting into the process.
Yes, you can. See screenshot of my rooted 5a. I have the JP version but there's no reason why it shouldn't work on the US version too.
Ehikes said:
Hey all,
I purchased my new 5a after seeing various headlines about how the Google Dialer would allow you to opt in to automatic call recording. That's incredibly helpful for my job, and a major reason why I've kept my OnePlus 6 for the past few years, but now the battery is barely getting through half the day.
It looks like Google is restricting auto calls to outside the US, which sucks because I live in a one-party consent state and always ask for permission to record.
Magisk could be the answer since it has a few modules for other Pixels to get auto call recording. However, do we know if we can apply the same method for Magisking the 5 to the 5a? I figure it may carry over because these two devices are so similar in specs and software, but I'd like to make sure before getting into the process.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to Settings -> About Phone. At the bottom is your build number. Go to https://developers.google.com/android/images and download the image that matches your version, probably .007.
Extract boot.img from it and adb push it to /sdcard. Have magisk patch that and save it. adb pull that patched boot.img and make sure you have OEM Unlock enabled in Developer Options. After confirming that, reboot to fastboot and run 'fastboot flashing unlock'. This will likely wipe your phone. Once that's done, reboot back into fastboot and run 'fastboot flash boot <local path to patched boot.img>' Now you have magisk installed. You can also install LSPosed and XPrivacyLua if you want to tinker with that or the Universal SafetyNet Fix at: https://github.com/kdrag0n/safetynet-fix/releases. Just download 1.2.0 and adb push it to your phone and have magisk install it.
himom said:
Go to Settings -> About Phone. At the bottom is your build number. Go to https://developers.google.com/android/images and download the image that matches your version, probably .007.
Extract boot.img from it and adb push it to /sdcard. Have magisk patch that and save it. adb pull that patched boot.img and make sure you have OEM Unlock enabled in Developer Options. After confirming that, reboot to fastboot and run 'fastboot flashing unlock'. This will likely wipe your phone. Once that's done, reboot back into fastboot and run 'fastboot flash boot <local path to patched boot.img>' Now you have magisk installed. You can also install LSPosed and XPrivacyLua if you want to tinker with that or the Universal SafetyNet Fix at: https://github.com/kdrag0n/safetynet-fix/releases. Just download 1.2.0 and adb push it to your phone and have magisk install it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I actually did this a couple days ago with the universal safetynet fix. Ipassed safetynet on magisk but googlepay doesnt work. Does googlepay work for you?
exile1ck said:
So I actually did this a couple days ago with the universal safetynet fix. Ipassed safetynet on magisk but googlepay doesnt work. Does googlepay work for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had a chance to try it yet. I have the card added but I've yet to pay with it. Maybe later today I'll give it a whirl.
It doesn't look like there are valid device fingerprints for the 5a yet in MagiskHide Props Config, so I'm not sure how you're able to pass basic ctsProfile checks.
I've rooted and have installed the universal safetynet fix, but until there is a 5a fingerprint, I'm not sure how I can pass safetynet.
nsoult said:
It doesn't look like there are valid device fingerprints for the 5a yet in MagiskHide Props Config, so I'm not sure how you're able to pass basic ctsProfile checks.
I've rooted and have installed the universal safetynet fix, but until there is a 5a fingerprint, I'm not sure how I can pass safetynet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
isnt the magiskhide project coming to an end though?
exile1ck said:
isnt the magiskhide project coming to an end though?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes. There will be another program that comes along. The main dev for Magisk got hired by google, so...
I have a Pixel 2 XL. It's rooted on Android 10 still. I never even upgraded to Android 11 because by the time it came out I was already sick of dealing with the rooting updates. I don't care what anybody here says it's always a pain in the ass. It takes 3 to 4 hours to get everything set back up right after rooting. The time to back up everything before you start has to be considered. And when things go wrong you spend a whole weekend making them right. I don't have time for it anymore.
I most enjoy my EX kernels ability that allows me to sweep to sleep the display. I love this because it's handy and makes it so my screen off button (power button) is basically never used. It never fails this way. This means I never have to tear my phone apart to replace mechanical components.
I enjoy adaway. I enjoy YouTube vanced. I enjoy viper for Android. I enjoy substratum. I enjoy button mapper. I really, really enjoy Tulsa divers pixel launcher mods that allow me to make the buttons on the screen smaller to give me more screen real estate, but I think that hasn't been available since Android 11. You can no longer modify button icons from what I understand. I don't know if this is still true. I know there are rootless versions of substratum and the YouTube advanced, but when I last read about them years ago they were limited as compared to the root versions.
I leaned towards root being basically worthless, not worth the time, and more of a pain in the ass for a basic user who's not a developer. If I get the Pixel 5a or the Pixel 6 is rooting still worth it in 2021? Are there any rootless versions of the things I've mentioned here that would satisfy all my likes and needs I've mentioned here on Android 12 on a Pixel 5A or Pixel 6?
in case anyone cares, magiskhide props config module was updated recently and I was able to use it to force basic attuestation, so my 5a is now passing safetynet checks.
Schroeder09 said:
I have a Pixel 2 XL. It's rooted on Android 10 still. I never even upgraded to Android 11 because by the time it came out I was already sick of dealing with the rooting updates. I don't care what anybody here says it's always a pain in the ass. It takes 3 to 4 hours to get everything set back up right after rooting. The time to back up everything before you start has to be considered. And when things go wrong you spend a whole weekend making them right. I don't have time for it anymore.
I most enjoy my EX kernels ability that allows me to sweep to sleep the display. I love this because it's handy and makes it so my screen off button (power button) is basically never used. It never fails this way. This means I never have to tear my phone apart to replace mechanical components.
I enjoy adaway. I enjoy YouTube vanced. I enjoy viper for Android. I enjoy substratum. I enjoy button mapper. I really, really enjoy Tulsa divers pixel launcher mods that allow me to make the buttons on the screen smaller to give me more screen real estate, but I think that hasn't been available since Android 11. You can no longer modify button icons from what I understand. I don't know if this is still true. I know there are rootless versions of substratum and the YouTube advanced, but when I last read about them years ago they were limited as compared to the root versions.
I leaned towards root being basically worthless, not worth the time, and more of a pain in the ass for a basic user who's not a developer. If I get the Pixel 5a or the Pixel 6 is rooting still worth it in 2021? Are there any rootless versions of the things I've mentioned here that would satisfy all my likes and needs I've mentioned here on Android 12 on a Pixel 5A or Pixel 6?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot live without YouTube Vanced or Viper4Android, and I have found no alternative. Magisk rooting is pretty easy though, so I don't think it's that much of a hassle.
nsoult said:
in case anyone cares, magiskhide props config module was updated recently and I was able to use it to force basic attuestation, so my 5a is now passing safetynet checks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow holy you're right it is super recent, thanks for the update.
Schroeder09 said:
I have a Pixel 2 XL. It's rooted on Android 10 still. I never even upgraded to Android 11 because by the time it came out I was already sick of dealing with the rooting updates. I don't care what anybody here says it's always a pain in the ass. It takes 3 to 4 hours to get everything set back up right after rooting. The time to back up everything before you start has to be considered. And when things go wrong you spend a whole weekend making them right. I don't have time for it anymore.
I most enjoy my EX kernels ability that allows me to sweep to sleep the display. I love this because it's handy and makes it so my screen off button (power button) is basically never used. It never fails this way. This means I never have to tear my phone apart to replace mechanical components.
I enjoy adaway. I enjoy YouTube vanced. I enjoy viper for Android. I enjoy substratum. I enjoy button mapper. I really, really enjoy Tulsa divers pixel launcher mods that allow me to make the buttons on the screen smaller to give me more screen real estate, but I think that hasn't been available since Android 11. You can no longer modify button icons from what I understand. I don't know if this is still true. I know there are rootless versions of substratum and the YouTube advanced, but when I last read about them years ago they were limited as compared to the root versions.
I leaned towards root being basically worthless, not worth the time, and more of a pain in the ass for a basic user who's not a developer. If I get the Pixel 5a or the Pixel 6 is rooting still worth it in 2021? Are there any rootless versions of the things I've mentioned here that would satisfy all my likes and needs I've mentioned here on Android 12 on a Pixel 5A or Pixel 6?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My portfolio of root 'enjoys' differs a bit by overall ROI sentiment around rooting is similar. I stopped after Pie and never looked back. Much of what previously required root can now be accomplished via other means. I do miss being master of my gizmos but there are bigger fish to fry in the world of worries.
Adblock?
peikojose said:
Adblock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a non-root version of AdAway I take it?
Schroeder09 said:
This is a non-root version of AdAway I take it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most "adblocking" programs are standalone, in the case of android, Adblock has its own browser. Some other browsers that do that are like Brave. However they obviously only work within the application, AdAway does hosts file level blocking so it works throughout the entire OS, so this worked really pleasantly for me from those stupid pop-up ads or the ones that take up quarter of the screen on some apps.
liberatorx3 said:
Most "adblocking" programs are standalone, in the case of android, Adblock has its own browser. Some other browsers that do that are like Brave. However they obviously only work within the application, AdAway does hosts file level blocking so it works throughout the entire OS, so this worked really pleasantly for me from those stupid pop-up ads or the ones that take up quarter of the screen on some apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never realized brave blocked ads. It's the browser I use. I thought it just blocked third party tracking cookies or something that happen in the background. The ads I notice that are blocked are the broken link ads blocked by AdAway.
When i started rooting I got AdAway just because of the hype and mentions I saw all the time. I didn't see what the big deal was but figured since I was rooted I might as well get all the benefits for the hard work. I have bought in at this point. Going to some sites on my work phone is a real pain. The bombardment of ads is NUTS. Some sites are unusable. This isn't a problem on my rooted p2xl with AdAway.
My camera just failed though. When I replaced it and the battery a couple nights ago I cracked the screen. It isn't shattered beyond use or anything. In fact I don't think most would even notice unless I pointed it out. I still think I'm going to be going to the 5a or p6 pro based on the reviews that I start to see after a couple months' use for each of these two variants.
If someone could figure out a smooth way to do updates and stay rooted without having to hook up to a PC and spend 3 hours doing it id never think about leaving root. It's a PITA though.
Schroeder09 said:
I never realized brave blocked ads. It's the browser I use. I thought it just blocked third party tracking cookies or something that happen in the background. The ads I notice that are blocked are the broken link ads blocked by AdAway.
When i started rooting I got AdAway just because of the hype and mentions I saw all the time. I didn't see what the big deal was but figured since I was rooted I might as well get all the benefits for the hard work. I have bought in at this point. Going to some sites on my work phone is a real pain. The bombardment of ads is NUTS. Some sites are unusable. This isn't a problem on my rooted p2xl with AdAway.
My camera just failed though. When I replaced it and the battery a couple nights ago I cracked the screen. It isn't shattered beyond use or anything. In fact I don't think most would even notice unless I pointed it out. I still think I'm going to be going to the 5a or p6 pro based on the reviews that I start to see after a couple months' use for each of these two variants.
If someone could figure out a smooth way to do updates and stay rooted without having to hook up to a PC and spend 3 hours doing it id never think about leaving root. It's a PITA though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you root with Magisk? It's definitely a lot easier now. https://topjohnwu.github.io/Magisk/ota.html
Doing updates and staying rooted was a PITA for me too, I ended up just never updating haha. In fact, my P2 is still running some old custom 9.1 version.
liberatorx3 said:
Do you root with Magisk? It's definitely a lot easier now. https://topjohnwu.github.io/Magisk/ota.html
Doing updates and staying rooted was a PITA for me too, I ended up just never updating haha. In fact, my P2 is still running some old custom 9.1 version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. I use magisk, and that's exactly what I did. I have yet to (never will on this phone anymore) update to android 11 because I KNEW such a big OS change would leave my phone broken for days. One of the big things I like on my phone is Tulsa divers modified button bar icons and making the bar a lot smaller, so it uses less screen real estate. When 11 came out I read that the icons couldn't be modified. Not sure if that's correct. It's been too long. Regardless, I just stopped updating because of the potential for a bad couple days, and even when things went well I never wanted to spend the 3-4 hrs to back the phone up and get everything just like it was before after booting back up into the new update.
It's easier to update and root now than it was when I had to download the update, open it, remove "-w" from the flashall.bat file, flash twrp, flash magisk, and then re-install all the modules or the ones that were messed up or inactive from the update?
This is my process, ymmv:
I keep my os, etc stock. I run mostly the latest updates, however, there have been times I have skipped a few monthlies.
step 1: go to google's developers site to download the latest factory image.
step 2: unzip, extract boot.img, adb push it to my phone
step 3: edit either the .bat file or the .sh file depending on whether I'm using windows or wsl2, remove the -w
step 4: reboot into fastboot, execute .bat or .sh
step 5: reboot, open magisk, patch boot.img that I pushed in step 2, adb pull patched boot to computer
step 6: reboot into fastboot, run `fastboot flash boot [patched image file name]`, repeat command for boot_a or boot_b
step 7: reboot, verify in magisk that root is ok
pretty simple, I think, and only takes like 10 minutes of my time. I don't see it as burdensome, but I'm not sure how the future it going to look - the steps described above was my process for my old pixel 4xl, so with magisk's developer working for google now, I'm not sure this will continue to be as easy if I want to continue to keep safetynet checks working on my pixel 5a.
Schroeder09 said:
Yes. I use magisk, and that's exactly what I did. I have yet to (never will on this phone anymore) update to android 11 because I KNEW such a big OS change would leave my phone broken for days. One of the big things I like on my phone is Tulsa divers modified button bar icons and making the bar a lot smaller, so it uses less screen real estate. When 11 came out I read that the icons couldn't be modified. Not sure if that's correct. It's been too long. Regardless, I just stopped updating because of the potential for a bad couple days, and even when things went well I never wanted to spend the 3-4 hrs to back the phone up and get everything just like it was before after booting back up into the new update.
It's easier to update and root now than it was when I had to download the update, open it, remove "-w" from the flashall.bat file, flash twrp, flash magisk, and then re-install all the modules or the ones that were messed up or inactive from the update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you talking about these navbar Icons? I converted them to vector files and they still work for me (i'm on Android 12-Pixel 4XL). I'm probably going to get one of the Pixel 6 phones. I was going to hold out until the punch hole camera went instead to "under the screen" but my Pixel 3XL died and I no longer have a backup phone.
Hi everybody,
Any ideas to why possibility of using google lens from within google photos is missing.
Newest versions of both photos and lens are installed.
In addition locked folder is also missing.
jocker96 said:
Hi everybody,
Any ideas to why possibly of using google lens from within google photos s missing.
Newest versions of both photos and lens are installed.
In addition locked folder is also missing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure the locked folder feature is only for Google Pixel devices at this point (all devices might get it eventually). I'll have to take a look at Photos on my Tab S8 Ultra regarding Lens. I wouldn't think by now that it's only for Pixel devices.
Well, according to google Forums lens is built into photos app and should be working on any device by now.
I mean, I can make it without folder thing since samsung has something similar which actually works but living without lens integrated into photos is going to be tough - I use this function a lot.
I have Xperia handset and both locked folder and lens works.
Maybe it has something to do with photos not being system app on my tab s8+
Thanks for taking time and checking if it works on your tablet.
jocker96 said:
Well, according to google Forums lens is built into photos app and should be working on any device by now.
I mean, I can make it without folder thing since samsung has something similar which actually works but living without lens integrated into photos is going to be tough - I use this function a lot.
I have Xperia handset and both locked folder and lens works.
Maybe it has something to do with photos not being system app on my tab s8+
Thanks for taking time and checking if it works on your tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt if it has anything to do with not being a system app.
Great news. I was able to do everything on the tablet. The only caveat is that to use Lens, I had to go into an image in Photos and choose the Share button and then choose Lens. FYI, the first time, I found that Lens was "disabled" (maybe from non-use?), so I had to enable it, plus there was an updated version available.
And I found the locked folder fine via two methods - the Utilities tab and the 3-dot menu inside an image.
All screenshots taken on my bootloader unlocked, rooted Wi-Fi only Tab S8 Ultra.
Spoiler: 3-dot menu in an image showing Locked Folder:
Spoiler: Utilities tab Locked Folder:
Spoiler: Image Share with Lens menu:
Spoiler: Text copied/pasted with Lens:
26%
+Add to album
Move to Archive
Download
Order photo
DJ:
N
Move to Locked Folder
Use as
Slideshow
Print
Help & feedback
You're welcome! Are you rooted, too?
Thanks again for taking time to help me!
So, yes I can see option to set up Locked folder now in utilities. Fanny thing, it wasn't there yesterday, but works now.
When it comes to lens, your suggested workaround works too. Minor inconvenience that now hole process takes couple of additional clicks.
Still, why it can't just work like on a phone? ( I guess my OCD kicks in ). Even windows version of google photos has lens functionality built-in, but hey, at least the workaround is there.
Maybe it's a tablet thing, there are two versions of Photos, one for handsets and one for tablets, right?
roirraW edor ehT said:
Are you rooted, too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I stopped rooting my devices couple of years back. But maybe with this tablet I'm gonna start again. I would like it to be...more sock android like.
jocker96 said:
Thanks again for taking time to help me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome!
jocker96 said:
So, yes I can see option to set up Locked folder now in utilities. Fanny thing, it wasn't there yesterday, but works now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Locked Folder still wasn't available to you, I was going to ask you how long you've had the tablet - I was wondering if maybe being left on and connected to Wi-Fi (or mobile data) would eventually lead to the feature being enabled for you.
jocker96 said:
When it comes to lens, your suggested workaround works too. Minor inconvenience that now hole process takes couple of additional clicks.
Still, why it can't just work like on om phone? ( I guess my OCD kicks in ). Even windows version of google photos has lens functionality built-in, but hey at least they work around is there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. On my Pixel 6 Pro, if I want Info about the image I just swipe up, but it's weird that on the Tablet UI they replace the Lens button with the Info button. Maybe that's something that'll trickle down to tablets eventually.
jocker96 said:
Maybe it's a tablet thing, there are two versions of Photos, one for handsets and one for tablets, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I know of, at least as far as it's the same Play Store entry no matter what - but I don't know for sure. Maybe this evening if I remember I'll compare version numbers for the Photos app on my phone versus my tablet.
jocker96 said:
No, I stopped rooting my devices couple of years back. But maybe with this tablet I'm gonna start again. I would like it to be...more sock android like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the tablet were my main mobile device, I would want to, too. I don't have the time to micromanage my devices too much these days, though.
roirraW edor ehT said:
If Locked Folder still wasn't available to you, I was going to ask you how long you've had the tablet - I was wondering if maybe being left on and connected to Wi-Fi (or mobile data) would eventually lead to the feature being enabled for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The tablet is brand new, I had it for like 3 days.
At first, the only message in utilities tab in photos was one about joining my libery with my partners. After I clicked it away the next morning message about locked folder appeared.