Guide installing android apps on the lenovo smart clock 2. - Google Home

Hello, in this guide I am going to describe how to side load android apps on the lenovo smart clock 2.
Requirements.
A device to use the google home app.
A List of apps you want to install, make sure you have a keyboard and home screen launcher in mind.
Not a requirement but basic understanding of the talk back screen reader will be helpful.
Next some things to be aware of.
While ADB is in developer settings I haven’t found a way to connect the clock to a pc using the dock I tried a usb C to A cable but that did not work.
The draw over other apps permission is unavailable.
Here are the specks that we are working with.
Processor
MediaTek™ MT8167S Processor (1.50 GHz)
Operating System
Android 10
Display Type
4.0" LCD IPS Touchscreen
Memory
1 GB
Hard Drive
8 GB Flash We have about 3.3 GB free.
Finally, I am visually impaired so the way I describe things may not make sense for some. If you have trouble understanding please let me know.
Note You are doing all this at your own risk. However, everything is easy to undo with a factory reset.
Instructions for factory resetting.
Flip the mute switch to muted.
Press both volume buttons for ten seconds.
A window should now come up asking if you want to reset. If nothing is pressed the device will auto reset in a minute.
OK, let’s start.
Find a website where the apk is that you want to install.
Now find a way where that website will come up in a google search.
Note do to how google displays the search button may not be available, so we will have to rely on Google’s auto complete feature.
Examples:
If you were looking for nova launcher, you would be using nova launcher.ap we will want google to finish adding the K.
Add this word to your calendar. For example,nova launcher.ap
Make sure this is the same calendar that the clock is signed in to.
Next open the google home app. Find your device click on settings then accessibility.
Next click the switch next to screenreader.
Your clock should now start talking or making sounds.
If so, ask google “what’s on my calendar?” Swipe right until the event you added is spoken or highlighted.
Next swipe down and right in a single motion an L shape.
Swipe right until copy last utterance is selected double tap, if successful the menu should disappear.
It may take a few tries to get it.
Next open the same menu, (swipe down and right.)
Swipe until talkback settings is selected. Double tap again.
A new screen should appear.
Now swipe, swipe a lot until privacy policy is selected.
Double tap, a browser should now open.
Swipe and double tap to allow all the permissions.
Next swipe until google apps is selected. Double tap then find search and double tap to activate.
Find the search box, double tap to get into it.
Now swipe up and right in a single motion
If successful a new menu should come up. Find edit then activate paste.
If the text gets pasted in the search box, you can now turn off talkback.
Back on your phone flip the switch next to screenreader.
Now here is where things get difficult, the text should be in the box, But I was not able to see the search button with talkback. If you see the button, try turning off
talkback and pressing it
If the search button does not show up here is where you will have to rely on Google auto complete suggestions.
You should have a pretty good idea of what to do from here.
Note that when you download something a window will come up with all downloaded files. The first time you install an apk you will have to click allow from this source when that window comes up.
Notes.
I recommend you install something like nova launcher, for a replacement home screen.
When you install a replacement home screen you will have to click always on the new window that will pop up.
If you want to get back to the regular clock interface, launch the home app.
Any questions feal free to ask.
Remember doing a factory reset will clear all changes made.

What apps have you found that work well and are useful?

Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.

Mainly want to get the Google home app on there.
Need some help. Got nova launcher running. Then when I applied my nova settings, it went back to the Lenovo home screen. How do I get it back to nova? Lol
Nevermind. I found it.
willbilec said:
Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
willbilec said:
Most apps should work, since this is basically android 10, but here are some ideas.
1. Aurora Store
auroraoss.com
Allows you to download apps from google play without play services installed.
2. any voice recorder, you can record audio, but I recommend turning the microphone gain up since the microphone is a little quiet. Note, that when recording Google assistant will not be listening.
3
Ultimate alexa.
Allows amazon alexa to be used. with wake word and all.
4. Last launcher.
Last Launcher | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
Faster than Light
f-droid.org
A simple and small launcher that will show all apps on one page.
The built in browser seems to work well.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a quick way to get back to nova launcher when I decide to be on the clock for a while.
You could also install youtube vanst so that youtube could work on the clock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

If you open the home app, not assistant core. their is a app called home, this app should allow you to get back to the default launcher if you do the back gesture.

I am trying to get Ring in it!

Any chance you can do a YouTube guide on how to do this. I would love to be able to install Auora OSS to easily install other apps. Thanks.

I am going to make a YouTube tutorial and how to connect Bluetooth keyboard! NOT USB !!!!!!DONGLE!!!!!!

How can I enable notification toggle ?

willbilec said:
Hello, in this guide I am going to describe how to side load android apps on the lenovo smart clock 2.
Requirements.
A device to use the google home app.
A List of apps you want to install, make sure you have a keyboard and home screen launcher in mind.
Not a requirement but basic understanding of the talk back screen reader will be helpful.
Next some things to be aware of.
While ADB is in developer settings I haven’t found a way to connect the clock to a pc using the dock I tried a usb C to A cable but that did not work.
The draw over other apps permission is unavailable.
Here are the specks that we are working with.
Processor
MediaTek™ MT8167S Processor (1.50 GHz)
Operating System
Android 10
Display Type
4.0" LCD IPS Touchscreen
Memory
1 GB
Hard Drive
8 GB Flash We have about 3.3 GB free.
Finally, I am visually impaired so the way I describe things may not make sense for some. If you have trouble understanding please let me know.
Note You are doing all this at your own risk. However, everything is easy to undo with a factory reset.
Instructions for factory resetting.
Flip the mute switch to muted.
Press both volume buttons for ten seconds.
A window should now come up asking if you want to reset. If nothing is pressed the device will auto reset in a minute.
OK, let’s start.
Find a website where the apk is that you want to install.
Now find a way where that website will come up in a google search.
Note do to how google displays the search button may not be available, so we will have to rely on Google’s auto complete feature.
Examples:
If you were looking for nova launcher, you would be using nova launcher.ap we will want google to finish adding the K.
Add this word to your calendar. For example,nova launcher.ap
Make sure this is the same calendar that the clock is signed in to.
Next open the google home app. Find your device click on settings then accessibility.
Next click the switch next to screenreader.
Your clock should now start talking or making sounds.
If so, ask google “what’s on my calendar?” Swipe right until the event you added is spoken or highlighted.
Next swipe down and right in a single motion an L shape.
Swipe right until copy last utterance is selected double tap, if successful the menu should disappear.
It may take a few tries to get it.
Next open the same menu, (swipe down and right.)
Swipe until talkback settings is selected. Double tap again.
A new screen should appear.
Now swipe, swipe a lot until privacy policy is selected.
Double tap, a browser should now open.
Swipe and double tap to allow all the permissions.
Next swipe until google apps is selected. Double tap then find search and double tap to activate.
Find the search box, double tap to get into it.
Now swipe up and right in a single motion
If successful a new menu should come up. Find edit then activate paste.
If the text gets pasted in the search box, you can now turn off talkback.
Back on your phone flip the switch next to screenreader.
Now here is where things get difficult, the text should be in the box, But I was not able to see the search button with talkback. If you see the button, try turning off
talkback and pressing it
If the search button does not show up here is where you will have to rely on Google auto complete suggestions.
You should have a pretty good idea of what to do from here.
Note that when you download something a window will come up with all downloaded files. The first time you install an apk you will have to click allow from this source when that window comes up.
Notes.
I recommend you install something like nova launcher, for a replacement home screen.
When you install a replacement home screen you will have to click always on the new window that will pop up.
If you want to get back to the regular clock interface, launch the home app.
Any questions feal free to ask.
Remember doing a factory reset will clear all changes made.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So my issue here is how to enable the screen reader using the google home app on iOS. I think they removed it

So after installing Nova Launcher there will be a pop-up we always have to click? Is that the choose default launcher pop-up?

@willbilec Could you please list what software build version you have? Because I can get to auroraoss and nova launcher but when I click the download APK button the button flashes (so I know it was clicked), but nothing happens? No pop-up to click install. What am I missing?

I am facing the same problem, after clicking on the download link nothing happens. Has the download capability been disabled on the latest build? I know that as soon as I turned on the device and got it connected it performed an update

After I've added the link to my calendar and ask google to show my calendar she says she can't find anything in my calendar. Is this patched?

I followed this guide again and it worked totally fine. I went into settings and disabled auto update and turned on OEM unlock.

This is a really cool solution that almost worked with the mi smart clock.
Unfortunately the xiaomi(or google?) guys have scraped everything that resembles a browser or could possibly open a link.
Also, went trough all the settings (using the method described above, and searching for settings, apps, etc.) Everything that's USB or Bluetooth related is severely cut down to only work as needed for the intended functionality. Can't attach a keyboard. Can't transfer a file trough Bluetooth. So, although in theory you could install anything, u can't get any new files downloaded on the device.

When i get to the paste section, it seems somehow "Home" has been copied instead of my event name.
When i'm copying i've checked "repeat last utterance" before i "copy last utterance" and it's correct, but when i go to paste in the search box, i get "Home"
is this happening to anyone else?

Nice work!

ggreenwood334 said:
Need some help. Got nova launcher running. Then when I applied my nova settings, it went back to the Lenovo home screen. How do I get it back to nova? Lol
Nevermind. I found it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...So what did you do? I can't figure this part out either.
edit 1:
ok for anyone else, follow the instructions again right up to install, but instead of "install" select "open". Then when I rebooted the device i was able to tell it to use nova launcher "always", and then using the launcher home to get to the android settings, I was able to connect a bluetooth mouse and keyboard.
However, short of rebooting every time the clock home screen or browser comes up, I haven't figured out a quick way to exit that and return to the nova launcher home.
edit 2: Ok with the screen reader enabled, you can swipe up and left (L shape rotated 180 degrees) to return Home, then set Nova7 as Home. If you add a bluetooth keyboard, you can also alt+F4 to return home.

Has anyone been able (A) to get ride of the "muted microphone" screen overlay icon or (B) prevent the google home setup screen from taking over when trying to connect to a wifi ssid without internet access?

Related

[Q] Any way to lose the Nook apps main button?

During two 12 hour days of rooting and customizing two CNooks, I ran across a procedure for removing the stock Nook apps. Now I can't find it. I'm not sure if that included the main soft button, as well, but I'm giving one of these to my 75 year old Mom and I don't want her confused if she hits this button all the time.
Really appreciate any help here!!!
ClarkSt said:
During two 12 hour days of rooting and customizing two CNooks, I ran across a procedure for removing the stock Nook apps. Now I can't find it. I'm not sure if that included the main soft button, as well, but I'm giving one of these to my 75 year old Mom and I don't want her confused if she hits this button all the time.
Really appreciate any help here!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK there's no way to remove the nook shortcut menu in the status bar. So what is she using it for, never reading on it? If you removed the apps and she did launch the shortcuts I guess it'd just fail to load the app, as they seem to be static shortcuts to those apps.
I would think when we get a custom ROM the status bar will be at the developers digression, and maybe someone will figure out a way to update the framework jar to remove the shortcut. My wife likes the shortcut, as her NC is 50/50 reader/tablet.
I installed the Kindle app on the Home screen, which I prefer. The Nook eReader is still there in the app tray, but because I changed the screen res, it screws up some of the texts in the Store and what not. The reader is still fine, though. But with the larger icons and text, it is WAY better. I tricked it out with the Aquarium Live Wallpaper and added Dolphin browser, which supports pinch zoom. And an email client; WeatherBug Elite, a Battery widget, a clock widget, and a WiFi toggle widgit went on the Home screen, as well - and I'm using Zeam for a launcher. I removed all the icons except the app drawer - and also changed the Volume Down button to be a Back and the Up to be a Menu. No SoftKeys for me. BTW: I set the lcd res to 220 using LCDDensity - far better than the 250 someone mentioned on the forum. I still see the time and the notification balloon - albeit, a bit truncated, but it works. I run SetCPU, though not really sure I need to.
I use Quick Settings for Volume.
I'm missing a few things:
1) Love to find out how to do a screen capture.
2) Desperately want Flash.
3) Desperately want Bluetooth.
And, really want to noop the nook shortcut launcher soft key - or preferably the whole status bar. I don't need it, with all the widgets, but I'd be happy to have it as long as the shortcut launcher softkey was nullified.
I'm planning to get NC for my parents of the same age like your mom as well.
They would use it for email and web browsing while traveling.
I hope you will succeed and share
Cool - and of course I'll share! Fact is, it's not a deal-breaker by any means. I
'll just tell her to avoid hitting that menu button. And if she does, she just clicks on the screen or clicks the button again to get rid of it. I'm really more interested in Flash - which I'm sure will be in 2.2, whenever they release it for the CN - and BT. Which I really want for the new BT headphones I bought for my lost Archos 70.
post deleted. it repeated my last one.
Screen capture - hold down the large physical "n" button, and then very quickly press the volume down button. It will store the .png screenshot file in a directory called "Screenshots" in the system storage.
Now, if someone knows how to do video capture of the screen, please let us know.
KryptoNyte39 said:
Screen capture - hold down the large physical "n" button, and then very quickly press the volume down button. It will store the .png screenshot file in a directory called "Screenshots" in the system storage.
Now, if someone knows how to do video capture of the screen, please let us know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome... thanks for posting this. I previously download ShootMe unaware of this functionality.
I did it all from my Nookie...

[Q] Open Book Icon [in Status Bar] stopped working

I've been a googlin, but found nothing on this yet!
Last night I finally got around to rooting. Everythings running smoothly except for one minor thing, which is that the open book icon on the status bar [that normally opens the book you're currently reading] is no longer working.
It was working after I'd initially rooted, i.e. before installing any apps or doing anything. But then after a bunch of otherwise successful tinkering (install/config of ADW, uninstalling soft keys, modding the volume buttons, etc) I noticed it's not working any more.
Has anyone else seen this happen?
I tried one thing to fix it thus far: I reverted to the .bak copies of the keylayout files and rebooted; this successfully returned the volume buttons to their original function [no longer menu and back], yet the open book icon still doesn't do anything. (The icon glows while pressed, but no action follows)
The book icon to return to your previously read book only works when you're using the nook home screen as your default home screen. You can use soft keys to configure one press for nook home and two presses for ADW, and then it should work.
peiziyu said:
The book icon to return to your previously read book only works when you're using the nook home screen as your default home screen. You can use soft keys to configure one press for nook home and two presses for ADW, and then it should work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure I saw it functioning properly when I first installed ADW. (I remember being quite surprised and pleased!)
Now that I think of it, another thing that happened around the time it stopped working is that I chose a default launcher (ADW). Until I was satisfied that ADW would play nicely (i.e. that the open-book icon and other nooky things still worked), I'd just had the 'n' button popup the dialog to select between 'home' and 'ADWLauncher'.
Is it possible that booting with non-nook launcher as default prevents that button from being init'd properly? I mean there's three cases right?
1) Nook as default
2) No default (pressing 'n' prompts for which home to use).
3) Non-nook as default (e.g. ADW, LauncherPro, etc) as default​
I wonder if the open book button is initialized properly (during boot) in only the first case, or if it might work in the second case as well?
Open Book icon stops working when you set another launcher as your default.
-CC
clockcycle said:
Open Book icon stops working when you set another launcher as your default.
-CC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ah!
ok... so then if I want one press of the 'n' button to bring me to ADW, e.g., with functioning open-book icon I should the solution is this:
1) Uninstall ADW Launcher (revert default to native nook launcher)
2) Reinstall ADW Launcher (or whatever home replacement is desired)
3) Configure Soft Keys such that a single press of the 'n' button opens ADW, and a double press of 'n' button opens Nook Home.
I'll try it out when I get home from work!
Just use Home Switcher:
http://www.appbrain.com/app/home-switcher/ymst.android.homeswitcher
ThrowingKs said:
Just use Home Switcher:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
... to set nook-home as default, and then softkeys to map 'n' to ADW?
Actually, I don't think you need to have the Nook launcher set as default; but you need to open the book from w/in the Nook launcher "shell" (use Home switcher to open the Nook launcher, but don't set it as the default). After that the book you opened in the nook launcher will open w/ the reading button.
Note: I am using Zeam as my launcher; YMMV w/ ADW ...
To be clear, since this is the wife's NC, my goal here is to avoid having to jump through any hoops to get it to work 'like it's supposed to'. The goal is that she turns it on, it goes to an alternate home [ADW, LP, etc], and all the native nook stuff still works.... This is her first Android experience, so it's gotta be boss for her to buy in (i.e. if she has to use Home Switcher or open the book the first time and then use homeswitcher again to switch to ADW 'every time'... well she's just not going to do that... she'll roll her eyes and give me the old 'It was fine before' )
jasoraso said:
...you need to open the book from w/in the Nook launcher "shell"...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right. So my thinking is that this initialization of the CurrentOpenBookState (or whatever it's really called), referenced by the open-book icon, must be happening during boot-up when a non-nook launcher isn't made default. i.e. If you boot an unrooted nook, you can just hit that button out of boot-up and it works.
So, I guess one viable work-around would be to allow it to boot into the nook launcher [thereby initializing the book-icon], and then reassign [via SoftKeys?] the 'n' button to open the real launcher [ADW, e.g.]. It's less than ideal, but it's not a bad compromise - you'd see the nook homescreen once, but from then on out, you'd always go to the ADW home.
Any thoughts on how to improve that work-around? I haven't used Autostart at all, but I was hoping there might be a clever way to script the boot/startup sequence such the nook-home would load/initialize, and then an alternate launcher would load and become the default handler.
I'd like it
I add the books to my Zeam homescreen:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9986743&postcount=35
HeroHTC said:
I add the books to my Zeam homescreen:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=9986743&postcount=35
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ah... nifty! Think my wife will probably stick to the shelves in the BN Library app though.
Has anyone had any success with Autostart on NC?
It's working fine on my Nook with ADW EX set as the default home app.
Try this:
1) In NookColor Tools clear the defaults for ADW (or your home app)
2) Click your Nook home button and choose the NC home (Do Not set any as default yet)
3) Open any book or magazine so that the Open Book Icon appears in your tray
4) Click the Nook Home button, this time select ADW (or your home app) as the default
5) Click the Open Book Icon in the tray and it should open your last book
6) When you need to read a different book or mag, use the "Library" shortcut in your drawer to select the book. The Open book icon should recognize the change as long as you are opening the books from the library.
At least this is how it has been working for me.
Hope this helps.
j.a said:
It's working fine on my Nook with ADW EX set as the default home app.
Try this:
1) In NookColor Tools clear the defaults for ADW (or your home app)
2) Click your Nook home button and choose the NC home (Do Not set any as default yet)
3) Open any book or magazine so that the Open Book Icon appears in your tray
4) Click the Nook Home button, this time select ADW (or your home app) as the default
5) Click the Open Book Icon in the tray and it should open your last book
6) When you need to read a different book or mag, use the "Library" shortcut in your drawer to select the book. The Open book icon should recognize the change as long as you are opening the books from the library.
At least this is how it has been working for me.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet thanks! I'll try this!
So does the button work "permanently" after that sequence? Can you reboot, unlock, press the book icon and have it go to your current book?
j.a said:
It's working fine on my Nook with ADW EX set as the default home app.
Try this:
1) In NookColor Tools clear the defaults for ADW (or your home app)
2) Click your Nook home button and choose the NC home (Do Not set any as default yet)
3) Open any book or magazine so that the Open Book Icon appears in your tray
4) Click the Nook Home button, this time select ADW (or your home app) as the default
5) Click the Open Book Icon in the tray and it should open your last book
6) When you need to read a different book or mag, use the "Library" shortcut in your drawer to select the book. The Open book icon should recognize the change as long as you are opening the books from the library.
At least this is how it has been working for me.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried this and it worked great for me. Thanks!
WhiskeySlx said:
Sweet thanks! I'll try this!
So does the button work "permanently" after that sequence? Can you reboot, unlock, press the book icon and have it go to your current book?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, so I tried this and it doesn't retain settings after a reboot... which means the original problem remains.
hmmmmm....
so is it possible to have it boot to nook-home but then have the 'n' button always invoke an alternate launcher? I just put soft-keys back on there, but I don't see how to set it up to do that. Hmmmm....
Same here, after reboot it loses it's setting.
Played around with it a bit further, same happens here. I haven't had any reason to reboot after nootering so never noticed
Is there a way to disable the icon to get more notification space?
j.a said:
Played around with it a bit further, same happens here. I haven't had any reason to reboot after nootering so never noticed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, same.
Question is what is the variable/state that's getting init'd by the nook home? And how can we get it to set otherwise....
rswain64 said:
Same here, after reboot it loses it's setting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It took me 2 weeks to find out how to avoid that. It's quite complicated though.

[HOW TO] Replace S-Voice with Google Now, incl. for BT Voice Dialing

I have found S Voice completely unusable when not connected to WiFi, and so after some searching I have managed to completely replace S Voice with Google Now, including having Google Now activated by the voice dialing button on my bluetooth headset. While my S4 is rooted, I do not believe root is required to do this on the S4.
All credit goes to those who have figured this out before me, I'm just putting the steps in one place.
1. Disable S Voice. Menu > Settings > More > Application manager > All
2. Install Home2 Shortcut from Google Play Store (free!).
3. Open Home2 Shortcut and set the double tap option (Home > Home) to Google. Change your double tap response if you wish, set your Home Application to TouchWiz home, and tap the Close button.
3a. If you want the double tap to immediately activate the voice search function, set your Home > Home option to Voice Search.
4. Double tap the home button, choose Home2 Shortcut and select Always.
Congrats! You have now replaced S Voice with Google Now! But wait a sec, when you activate voice dialing from a bluetooth headset, you get the Google Voice Dialer. This isn't nearly as useful as Google Now, so that's the next item to fix!
1. Install Bluetooth Launch from Google Play Store (also free!).
2. Open Bluetooth Launch.
3. This app does not display well on our screens, but you should be able to find and tap on Google Search. This expands a list of options.
4. Select "com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox.VoiceSearchActivity"
5. Activate voice dialing from your headset, choose Bluetooth Launch and Always.
Congrats again! BT headset voice dialing will now activate Google Now Voice Search! :highfive:
C4PO said:
I have found S Voice completely unusable when not connected to WiFi, and so after some searching I have managed to completely replace S Voice with Google Now, including having Google Now activated by the voice dialing button on my bluetooth headset. While my S4 is rooted, I do not believe root is required to do this on the S4.
All credit goes to those who have figured this out before me, I'm just putting the steps in one place.
1. Disable S Voice. Menu > Settings > More > Application manager > All
2. Install Home2 Shortcut from Google Play Store (free!).
3. Open Home2 Shortcut and set the double tap option (Home > Home) to Google. Change your double tap response if you wish, set your Home Application to TouchWiz home, and tap the Close button.
3a. If you want the double tap to immediately activate the voice search function, set your Home > Home option to Voice Search.
4. Double tap the home button, choose Home2 Shortcut and select Always.
Congrats! You have now replaced S Voice with Google Now! But wait a sec, when you activate voice dialing from a bluetooth headset, you get the Google Voice Dialer. This isn't nearly as useful as Google Now, so that's the next item to fix!
1. Install Bluetooth Launch from Google Play Store (also free!).
2. Open Bluetooth Launch.
3. This app does not display well on our screens, but you should be able to find and tap on Google Search. This expands a list of options.
4. Select "com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox.VoiceSearchActivity"
5. Activate voice dialing from your headset, choose Bluetooth Launch and Always.
Congrats again! BT headset voice dialing will now activate Google Now Voice Search! :highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This used to be completely broken in both AOSP and TW roms because Google Now voices recognizing in Bluetooth voice dialing was buggy - it would never properly recognize contact names...
Are you saying it works now?
---------- Post added at 01:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:18 AM ----------
Just tried Google Now.
It still DOESN'T WORK.
It now recognizes names just fine, BUT ONLY when the screen is unlocked.
When the phone is off and locked, it doesn't recognize any voice commands.
Back to the buggy S-Voice for me!
C4PO said:
I have found S Voice completely unusable when not connected to WiFi, and so after some searching I have managed to completely replace S Voice with Google Now, including having Google Now activated by the voice dialing button on my bluetooth headset. While my S4 is rooted, I do not believe root is required to do this on the S4.
All credit goes to those who have figured this out before me, I'm just putting the steps in one place.
1. Disable S Voice. Menu > Settings > More > Application manager > All
2. Install Home2 Shortcut from Google Play Store (free!).
3. Open Home2 Shortcut and set the double tap option (Home > Home) to Google. Change your double tap response if you wish, set your Home Application to TouchWiz home, and tap the Close button.
3a. If you want the double tap to immediately activate the voice search function, set your Home > Home option to Voice Search.
4. Double tap the home button, choose Home2 Shortcut and select Always.
Congrats! You have now replaced S Voice with Google Now!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I managed to get this working but now there is a slight lag/delay when pushing my home button. Not acceptable for me so I went ahead and uninstalled Home2 Shortcut.
Marty said:
I managed to get this working but now there is a slight lag/delay when pushing my home button. Not acceptable for me so I went ahead and uninstalled Home2 Shortcut.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason for that is the app is waiting for you to push the home button once again. You can set the double tap interval to be shorter. I disabled the double tap home key because 905% of the time that i am pressing the home key i am exiting an app, not doing a search and i want my phone to be as fast as possible.
Change the interval time to "very short" or "very very short"
Mdracer said:
The reason for that is the app is waiting for you to push the home button once again. You can set the double tap interval to be shorter. I disabled the double tap home key because 905% of the time that i am pressing the home key i am exiting an app, not doing a search and i want my phone to be as fast as possible.
Change the interval time to "very short" or "very very short"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! This significantly shortened the lag/delay. However, I am still noticing a very, very small lag which I just don't want (phone has enough lag as it is already) so I am uninstalling again. I'll just keep a shortcut to Voice Search in my dock and on my lock screen.
This didn't work for me initially. Google now would launch but wouldn't record. Found out I had to change a setting in Google now...
In Google now go to settings>voice>blutooth headset
Now it will hear you. I still have to tap my bt mic a couple of times before it pics up.
Sent from my HTC One using xda app-developers app
I'm having a similar issue. I can hit my button on my headset to launch Google Now now, but it doesn't seem to pick up my audio. I hope to play around with it more later.
Does anyone actually have the Google Now Voice Search actually picking up the sound from their bluetooth headset?
No go for Google Now
I followed the directions as outlined above - and I had the same problems with Google Now and bluetooth not working with the screen off. It just won't start. Works fine with the screen on. So I tried Dragon Mobile Assistant and it works. Much better than SVoice and it reads aloud what actions it's performing.
Worked like a dream! Thanks!
flu13 said:
Does anyone actually have the Google Now Voice Search actually picking up the sound from their bluetooth headset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. The OP's thorough, step-by-step instructions worked like a dream. My S4 now jumps immediately to a listening Google Now search when i double-tap home, or (and this is the best part) when I press+hold the home button on my Plantronics Legend BT headset. Even / especially from a completely locked state. There's a weird sound, like two waiting chimes overlapping, but who cares?! It works!
You may have to follow parashara's tip as well:
This didn't work for me initially. Google now would launch but wouldn't record. Found out I had to change a setting in Google now...
In Google now go to settings>voice>blutooth headset
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANK YOU!
Nice. Google now is way more useful.
Sent from my SPH-L720 using xda premium
I am going to give this a try
Sent from my SPH-L720 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
I followed the instructions in the first part of the OP and can't get this to work.
When double tapping I just get a grey screen and then back to the launcher.
Stock Rom
Using Nova Launcher
Xoom said:
I followed the instructions in the first part of the OP and can't get this to work.
When double tapping I just get a grey screen and then back to the launcher.
Stock Rom
Using Nova Launcher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same thing here. Either the phone doesn't do anything, or I see a black screen that goes immidiately back to the launcher. Sometimes it just stays on "Initialization"...
Bluetooth Launch isn't working for me.
I got the double press home button to work but I can't seem to get my bluetooth call button to work. When I disable S-Voice in Application Manager, Settings takes away my option to "Activate voice dialing." But when I enable S-Voice in Application Manager and select "com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox.VoiceSearchActivity" in Bluetooth Launch I'm never asked to select Bluetooth Launch as an option when voice dialing. . . It's a bit frustrating and any help would be incredible.
Thanks.
Xoom said:
I followed the instructions in the first part of the OP and can't get this to work.
When double tapping I just get a grey screen and then back to the launcher.
Stock Rom
Using Nova Launcher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm having the same problem. Stock rom, unrooted.
Thx a bunch !
Stopped working with MH8 update
Using GOLDENEYE ROM on i337
Wasn't able to get Google Now to work, but once I disabled S Voice and used Bluetooth Launcher I did get Utter to work. All I'm really interested in doing is making hands free calls, and that works, even if the screen is locked with a pin.
I am using the Hyperdrive ROM, but not sure if that matters.
YMMV.
JW
Instead of installing Home2 Shortcut, just open up S Voice and go to settting, and disable the app from starting without having to install any third party apps.

[launcher] AppDrawer (MIUI App Drawer)

I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
This is the best app for a rooted NSTG No need to fiddle with different launchers, it just works as an extension to the B&N homescreen. Thanks for the tip!
johnseeking said:
I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
johnseeking said:
I recently rooted my NST with NookManager, and was looking to run a "stealth" root under stock. I used the Nook Touch Mod Manager to change the LONG PRESS on the 'n' button to launch THIS. After some fiddling with the options, it pops up a single 5 x 8 grid of apps on a white background with black text. You can long press on an app to hide it. Simple and fast.
I'll be happy to post a screenshot if I can figure out how to take one! :cyclops:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pardon my ignorance, but how exactly do you 'fiddle with the options'? The app opens in fullscreen mode, and i can't find the way to get the status bar to show up, tried everything...
my nook simple touch rooted with nook manager, so relaunch is the shell(or whatever it's called) from which i run app drawer...
Thanks!
nnbveh said:
Pardon my ignorance, but how exactly do you 'fiddle with the options'? The app opens in fullscreen mode, and i can't find the way to get the status bar to show up, tried everything...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had this issue with another app and here is what I did:
Temporarily assign the "Menu" function to one of the hardware keys using NookTouchModManager (unless you have it set up that way already for other purposes--I keep a long-press on one button this way just in case).
When you launch your app you will now have a way to access menu functions even though it is running full-screen. In my case I was able to change the settings on my app so it would *not* run full-screen by default, but that is probably not what you want in this instance. After you have made your adjustments, you can change the hardware key back to its default, although I think keeping both a "Back" and "Menu" option around is not a bad idea.
VERY late reply...
I use an app called Button Savior which lets you add a set of software buttons which expand or collapse when you touch an assigned target point on your screen. (I have mine set to a long press in the lower left corner, and since I bought the pro version I can customize my target to be invisible.) That way I can always get to a menu button if I need one.
Don't have my NST with me, so I can't tall you what version I'm running, but I'm pretty sure it's the current version on Google Play.
I came across this old post and thought I'd look up the app to see what it was like. I've attached a copy below.
This is not actually a "launcher" despite what the thread title says. It is plain-and-simple an App Drawer. But as the OP said, it can provide almost a "stealth" modification of the NST. To me it seems ideal for the person who says "I only want to root so I can run app x--I don't want a lot of stuff on it."
There are a few hurdles to get to that point, so here is a brief outline of steps to get it working:
1. Root with NookManager (update it first if you're rooting FW 1.2.2)
2. Install the app along with a good file manager like ES File Explorer which will give you root access when you need it (ReLaunch can't).
3. Use Nook Touch Mod Manager to assign a button press (maybe a long-press?) to the MIUI app. You can use one of the hardware buttons or (less "stealth") one of the QuickNav buttons you don't use like Social, or Shop or Search.
4. Temporarily assign one of the hardware buttons to "Menu". This is needed because the MIUI app opens in full screen by default and you can't get at the settings without the Menu button.
5. Run the MIUI app and configure as you want (there is an option not to hide the status bar). Once you have the appearance you are after note that you can long-press on an app to (among other things) hide it from the drawer or even uninstall it. I suggest you uninstall ReLaunch.
6. Go back to Nook Touch Mod Manager and remove the temporary "Menu" button assignment.
And you're good! Your NST still looks and works like its old self but you're one button-press away from accessing any apps you may want to install. And you have a decent file manager

problem with google home mini not working

Hello, I buy a second hand google home mini but this one has a problem.
when I plug it in it is not detected by the app home and I can not do anything with it.
the only thing he does is to give me the google presentation.
is there a way to reflash his memory or something else.
I specify that the reset button does nothing either ... help me please
I've done some digging on the internet and there are alot of threads about this.
Many solutions use the FDR button but you say it doesn't do anything at all.
Some people had to use the FDR button multiple times, maybe you can do some more resets.
Hold it for at least 15 Seconds, there should be a voice warning you that you're about to reset and erase your data.
Google home not being found in app
Can't find Google Home device in Google Home app
If you can't find a "Needs to be set up" Google Home device card within the Device section of the Google Home app (this section is found in the top right corner of the Google Home app's Home screen), try these steps.
Initial checklist
First, make sure:
You're using the most recent version of the Google Home app
The Google Home device is powered on
The Google Home device is plugged into a wall outlet
You are in the same room as the Google Home device
The LED light on the back of Google Home is blinking white. Note: Google Home Mini doesn't have this LED light.
The white LED lights on the top of the Google Home device are blinking, meaning the device is ready to be set up
If you're using an iOS device, turn on Bluetooth
On the Home screen, tap Settings > Bluetooth.
Make sure the slider is On (toggled to the right and green).
Close out of Settings and return to the Google Home app Google Home app.
If you're using an Android device, turn on Location services
On your Android device, tap Settings .
Tap Location > Turn on location.
Tap Settings > Apps > Google Home app > Permissions.
Next to "Location", make sure the slider is On (toggled to the right and green)
General troubleshooting
If you've checked off all of the steps above and you still can't find your Google Home device, try one of the steps below and then look for your device. If you still can't find it, move to the next step.
Step 1. Reboot Google Home
Disconnect the power cable from Google Home
Reconnect power cable back into Google Home
Step 2. Force close and relaunch the Google Home app
From an IOS device
Press the Home button two times quickly. You’ll see small previews of your recently used apps.
Select the app you want to close and swipe up towards the top of the screen.
From an Android device
Launch the Recent Applications menu to see small previews of your recently used apps.
The Recent Apps button should be accessible at nearly any time along the bottom of the screen along with the other buttons on the virtual task bar.
Step 3. Check to see if the device is listed under “Ignored Devices” folder on the Devices tab
Open the Google Home app.
In the top right corner of app home screen, tap Devices.
Scroll all the way down and make sure the Google Home is not listed under the Ignored Devices section. (Note: If you don’t have any ignored devices, you may not see this section listed in the Google Home app).
Step 4. Try to manually connecting to the Google Home SSID from your phone or tablet’s Wi-Fi settings
Go to the Wi-Fi settings on your mobile device.
Open the list of available WiFi networks and look for an available network with the name “GoogleHomeXXXX (where XXXX is a random number).
Note: If you previously set up your device and have not factory reset it (FDR) since it got kicked off of the network, look for the name of the Google Home device that you assigned to it in the list of available networks on your mobile device (ie. “Kitchen Home).
If you can successfully connect to the Google Home SSID in your WiFi settings, open the Google Home app and try setting up the device.
Advanced Troubleshooting​
If you're still unable to find your Google Home device within the Devices section of the Google Home app, try the following,
Try using another supported mobile device to set up the Google Home device.
Move the Google Home device to a different location (i.e room). This will rule out any interference in the area which be causing the SSID to not broadcast properly.
Perform a Factory Data Reset (FDR).
Or your mobile device or tablet, turn Wi-Fi off and then back on. Reopen the Google Home app and try set up again.
ptitpuma said:
Hello, I buy a second hand google home mini but this one has a problem.
when I plug it in it is not detected by the app home and I can not do anything with it.
the only thing he does is to give me the google presentation.
is there a way to reflash his memory or something else.
I specify that the reset button does nothing either ... help me please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is it connected to the same wifi? Used to have the same problem, I was trying to connect my home mini to my lenovo smart display, but turns out I was just using different wifi for both devices.
chit.chat said:
is it connected to the same wifi? Used to have the same problem, I was trying to connect my home mini to my lenovo smart display, but turns out I was just using different wifi for both devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First thanks for your answer...how to check it ? But i only have one wifi at Home so i don't think it's related but i will have a look
bongodrumz said:
I've done some digging on the internet and there are alot of threads about this.
Many solutions use the FDR button but you say it doesn't do anything at all.
Some people had to use the FDR button multiple times, maybe you can do some more resets.
Hold it for at least 15 Seconds, there should be a voice warning you that you're about to reset and erase your data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks but it doesn't have any effect... I have tried several Times... ?
nav chauhan said:
Can't find Google Home device in Google Home app
If you can't find a "Needs to be set up" Google Home device card within the Device section of the Google Home app (this section is found in the top right corner of the Google Home app's Home screen), try these steps.
Initial checklist
First, make sure:
You're using the most recent version of the Google Home app
The Google Home device is powered on
The Google Home device is plugged into a wall outlet
You are in the same room as the Google Home device
The LED light on the back of Google Home is blinking white. Note: Google Home Mini doesn't have this LED light.
The white LED lights on the top of the Google Home device are blinking, meaning the device is ready to be set up
If you're using an iOS device, turn on Bluetooth
On the Home screen, tap Settings > Bluetooth.
Make sure the slider is On (toggled to the right and green).
Close out of Settings and return to the Google Home app Google Home app.
If you're using an Android device, turn on Location services
On your Android device, tap Settings .
Tap Location > Turn on location.
Tap Settings > Apps > Google Home app > Permissions.
Next to "Location", make sure the slider is On (toggled to the right and green)
General troubleshooting
If you've checked off all of the steps above and you still can't find your Google Home device, try one of the steps below and then look for your device. If you still can't find it, move to the next step.
Step 1. Reboot Google Home
Disconnect the power cable from Google Home
Reconnect power cable back into Google Home
Step 2. Force close and relaunch the Google Home app
From an IOS device
Press the Home button two times quickly. You’ll see small previews of your recently used apps.
Select the app you want to close and swipe up towards the top of the screen.
From an Android device
Launch the Recent Applications menu to see small previews of your recently used apps.
The Recent Apps button should be accessible at nearly any time along the bottom of the screen along with the other buttons on the virtual task bar.
Step 3. Check to see if the device is listed under “Ignored Devices” folder on the Devices tab
Open the Google Home app.
In the top right corner of app home screen, tap Devices.
Scroll all the way down and make sure the Google Home is not listed under the Ignored Devices section. (Note: If you don’t have any ignored devices, you may not see this section listed in the Google Home app).
Step 4. Try to manually connecting to the Google Home SSID from your phone or tablet’s Wi-Fi settings
Go to the Wi-Fi settings on your mobile device.
Open the list of available WiFi networks and look for an available network with the name “GoogleHomeXXXX (where XXXX is a random number).
Note: If you previously set up your device and have not factory reset it (FDR) since it got kicked off of the network, look for the name of the Google Home device that you assigned to it in the list of available networks on your mobile device (ie. “Kitchen Home).
If you can successfully connect to the Google Home SSID in your WiFi settings, open the Google Home app and try setting up the device.
Advanced Troubleshooting​
If you're still unable to find your Google Home device within the Devices section of the Google Home app, try the following,
Try using another supported mobile device to set up the Google Home device.
Move the Google Home device to a different location (i.e room). This will rule out any interference in the area which be causing the SSID to not broadcast properly.
Perform a Factory Data Reset (FDR).
Or your mobile device or tablet, turn Wi-Fi off and then back on. Reopen the Google Home app and try set up again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried everything wrote in your answer but none IS working :crying: thanks for your answer...
ptitpuma said:
First thanks for your answer...how to check it ? But i only have one wifi at Home so i don't think it's related but i will have a look
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same issue i have

Categories

Resources