# Question
Title: What will I lose if I reset my samsung Galaxy SI (GTi9000)?
I've had this phone for two years so all my photos are saved on the actual phone (not a micro SD card). I'm wondering if I reset it, will I lose all the photos saved on my phone? I'm not bothered about losing the apps just my photos I'm concerned about.

# Answer
> 1 votes
That very much depends on a) where exactly the photos are stored, and b) how the factory-reset is implemented on the device. As you can find out via the tag's tag wiki (just hover your mouse over a tag and select the 'info' link to access its wiki), a factory reset will remove all your data and the apps you've installed. It usually does not touch the SDCard (external or internal).

Still: if you have the possibility (and your question does not seem to imply trouble booting your device into normal mode), why not copying everything you are concerned about (and which you can access) to another device, such as your computer, before doing the factory-reset? With that, you would be on the safe side.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Maybe. It's probably safest to just back them up to the cloud or an external device. Google Photos is an easy way to do that.

# Answer
> -1 votes
### TL;DR

*Everything* will be erased.

### Explination

While each device may handle a factory reset differently, they are meant to do just that, return the device to how it was when it came from the factory. This usually means deleting *all* data on the device, including apps, musics, photos, downloads, etc. Some device may not automatically erase an SD card, instead providing you an option to do so, but other may do it without warning.

The safest, and most advisable route is to back up any and all data you do not want to lose before any reset. There are many free services available for backing up photos (Google Photos, DropBox, etc.), or you could connect your device to your PC and copy the photos manually.

# Answer
> -1 votes
its simple, you would lose all the data in the phone memory. All the apps you installed would be gone. plus, the messages from the inbox would also be wiped.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s, factory-reset
---


# Question
Title: Automatically have my frequently-used apps handy
I recently wiped and re-installed my phone. In so doing, I lost my home screen layout. In any event, my layout wasn't all that great.

What I'm looking for is an app/other method that would determine which apps I use most frequently and place them on my home screen automatically. I imagine this would need to be either a launcher or a widget. This way, I wouldn't have to spend time scrolling around for my most commonly-used apps.

Does such an app exist?

# Answer
> 1 votes
> determine which apps I use most frequently and place them on my home screen automatically.

There is Smart Widget.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Cover is designed for this. It's a lock screen replacement app whose main feature is:

> **The right apps at the right time:** whether you're at home, work or in your car, Cover learns which apps you use and puts them at your fingertips.

Basically, it has a column of app shortcuts along the left side of the lock screen, which it dynamically changes to the apps you use mot often depending on your location and the time of day. Although this isn't quite the auto-homescreen layout you may have been looking for specifically, Cover's idea is that you shouldn't even *need* to get to your homescreen; it lets you launch your most frequently used apps directly from the lock screen instead.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Microsoft's Arrow Launcher automatically arranges your apps based on your usage.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Hanger is another option I came across when looking for the exact same feature.

Main features from app description.

> * Auto-updating notification drawer shortcuts containing your most used and important apps
> * Sort and display apps based on user specified weight factors
> * Pin apps to always display
> * Support for icon packs and custom icons
> * Optional second row of icons
> * Blacklist unwanted apps
> * Fully customizable! Change the number of shortcuts, icon color, icon size, background and more.
> * Additional re-sizeable widget to launch apps
> * Re-sizeable widget to view app use statistics with color coded bar graphs
> * Widgets intelligently scale according to size and device

---
Tags: applications, samsung-galaxy-nexus, launcher
---


title: Galaxy S5 Freezes Constantly

text:
# Question
Title: Galaxy S5 Freezes Constantly
I have a Samsung Galaxy S5 from Verizon, bought a little over one year ago. As soon as the one year warranty was over the device started acting up. Right now it is in an unreliable working state.

## Symptoms:

* The device freezes almost constantly at a rate of at least once an hour (4 times in the past 3 hours).
* There is not one app in particular to cause the freeze, that I can trace to. It seems that any time I do something which requires it to work a little, like loading a web page, brings the device to a freeze.
* Sometimes it just restarts.
* Sometimes it says "Start Up Failed" when booting up.

## What I've done:

* Removed the SD card completely.
* Reset the device to factory defaults multiple times (about once per week). After this, it works good for a few days then goes back into freezing mode.
* Uninstalled most of the apps, especially the once I don't really use daily.
* Disabled all the pre-installed Verizon apps (the once that I could).
* Disabled auto updates.
* Took the device to the local Verizon shop and they didn't do anything to help, besides trying to get me to buy something else.

Any idea of what else I could do to fix this issue?

## EDIT

The device got to a point where it became impossible to perform any operations. If it wasn't constantly restarting, it would restart at the very first operation. Any attempt to do anything on the device sent it into restart.

I was able to talk to a few technicians from Samsung and they determined that the problem sits with the hardware, perhaps the motherboard. Therefore I ended up sending the device to Samsung for repair.

# Answer
> 1 votes
As a method of starting to debug this, Linux keeps a log for the kernel. I'm not sure if `/proc/last_kmsg` is there or not, but you want the kernel log.

I'd start by replacing the stock recovery with TWRP. Whether or not you want to Flash to a different rom. TWRP has a file browser. It should let you save the kernel's log either way. You want to pay attention to two files:

* /var/log/boot.msg (useful in the state after the failed boot)
* /var/log/syslog (useful in the state after the crash, and the state after the boot)

You'll want to thoroughly examine these files and paste the contents up here. It's possible the problem is hardware though. I'd flash CM13 (because it's all around better), and see if that fixes it. If problems persist on a fresh CM13, you know you've got a hardware issue.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I would advise, as your next step, to attempt reformatting the phone with the stock images. This will erase the device completely.

Follow this guide. The procedure provides all the files you need, and walks you through the steps needed to perform to reinstall the factory images.

You may also be interested in installing TWRP recovery, as I 2nd Even Carroll's suggestion of installing CyanogenMod13 as a last ditch effort to stop this.

Should the problem persist, after reinstalling the factory images *and* from installing CM13 (an alternative) I would be hard pressed to think the storage on your device is malfunctioning and needs service.

# Answer
> -2 votes
I found a few solutions online, maybe you can glean some information from them as they seem to all relate to the model you are having issues with:

http://thedroidguy.com/2015/05/how-to-fix-freezing-lag-slow-performance-problems-on-samsung-galaxy-s5-part-1-107191

http://thedroidguy.com/2015/10/how-to-troubleshoot-a-samsung-galaxy-s5-that-constantly-freezes-and-lags-other-performance-issues-1050209

Hope that helps. They also have a form you can fill in to state your specific problem, perhaps they can assist if none of the other solutions work.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-5, reboot, system-freeze, verizon
---


# Question
Title: Caller ID not displaying after android 6 update
My infinix x510 has stopped displaying caller ID for incoming calls. It only displays the phone numbers without the names. And the contacts are in my phone book. I'm thinking it's a result of recent update to Android 6 M. Please How could I resolve this issue thanks

# Answer
After reading this post on Reddit, I fixed this problem by removing my Google account and adding the Google account again.
> 1 votes

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Tags: updates, android-versions
---


# Question
Title: I need to know which app to download, how do i select the right one?
I have an AT&T tablet I have inserted my sim card correctly. Now I need to know which app to get from the playstore that will give me a keypad so I can dial out and receive calls. Please help. Thank you, Marci

# Answer
> 0 votes
According to theartiszan on the T-Mobile support forum:

> The tablets are setup in a way in the US that you can not use them for phone calls. So unless you root it and put in custom software you would not be able to use the standard phone features as such.

Depending on the model of your tablet, you may be able to modify your tablet with **root access** and activate these features, though keep in mind that **this process can be dangerous for the device and may also void your warranty**.

Alternatively, you can use a VoIP service such as **Skype** or **Hangouts** to make Internet calls and send messages. Also, Google’s **Hangouts Dialer** app lets you make and receive phone calls when you set up a Google Voice™ number. Keep in mind that these services will use carrier data instead of carrier minutes.

*Note: While the quoted post is from the T-Mobile forums, it applies to all tablets in the U.S. including ones authorized by AT&T.*

---
Tags: applications
---


# Question
Title: Access settings outside of settings app without a root
Is there a file hidden somewhere in the internal storage that contains all the system setting preferences? I want to be able to access and modify this file (if it even exists) without rooting my device.

# Answer
No, it is not possible to modify the Settings' app's files without root access. For the record, if you gain root access in future, then:

### For Android 4.x-5.x

Look into:

```
/data/data/com.android.providers.settings/databases/settings.db  # database of Settings Providers/Storage app
/data/data/com.android.settings/shared_prefs                     # some preferences saved by Settings app

```

### For Android 6.0.x:

Look into:

```
/data/system/users/0/          # look for the files with name beginning with settings_. They serve as the alternative of erstwhile settings.db
/data/data/com.android.settings/shared_prefs

```

Files under *shared\_prefs* and *0* (0 corresponds to User ID 0, the id of primary user) directories are human readable XML files so you can use a text editor to edit them on the fly. To edit *settings.db*, you can consider an app or processor's architecture (e.g. arm) compatible version of *sqlite3*.

Recommendation: while I've not tried the paid version but only the free version, the app My Android Tools claims to show and allows editing SharedPreferences as well as the SQLite databases of an app, so for Android 4.x-5.x the said app can be of good use.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: settings, file-system
---


title: Can I restore software update?

text:
# Question
Title: Can I restore software update?
I'm trying to re-install a software update for my Galaxy S6, because I don't think it installed properly. Before the update, my phone was running smoothly, but now it freezes and is very slow.

# Answer
> 3 votes
## Wiping `/data`

If you were upgrading Android versions, the OTA might not have wiped your `/data` partition properly, and this may cause the issues that you describe. You should first try to perform a factory reset to see if that resolves the issue. One way to do this is through **Settings \> Backup & reset \> Factory data reset**. If you can't access your settings menu, you can perform the reset from recovery with these instructions:

1. Completely power off your phone. Now press and hold the **volume up, home, and power buttons** all at the same time until you see small blue text on the screen. This is your recovery.
2. Use the **volume up/down and power** buttons navigate down to `wipe data/factory reset` \> select `Yes -- delete all user data`.
3. Now select `wipe cache partition`.
4. Once that is complete select `reboot system now`. Your phone will now boot up like usual, but it may take up to 10 minutes, so be patient!

***If this doesn't resolve your issue, continue reading to find out how to reinstall the system image:***

## Reinstalling `/system`

You can reinstall an OTA update by downloading the firmware .tar and installing it via Odin. You can find the latest .tar update for your S6 on the XDA firmware thread for all Galaxy S6 variants.

1. With your phone unplugged, we're going to enter into `Download Mode`. Power off your phone and press and hold the **volume down, home button, and power button all at the same time**.
2. You should see `Warning` on the screen. Press **volume up** to continue.
3. You will now see `Downloading...`.
4. Plug in your phone via microUSB to your computer. If you have the official Samsung USB cable, use it.
5. **Download `Odin3_v3.10.6.zip`** and the correct stock firmware using the XDA thread mentioned above.
6. Unzip the stock firmware you downloaded in step 5. The unzipped file should end in "XXXX.md5".
7. Unzip `Odin3_v3.10.6.zip` and run `Odin3 v3.10.6.exe`.
8. You should see a blue box on the left side of Odin that reads something similar to **0:\[COM15\]**, if you don't then download and install Samsung USB drivers.
9. In Odin click on **AP**, locate and select the md5 file you unzipped in step 6. Odin may show **Not Responding**, but just wait!
10. Click on **Start** and wait until the process is over. This can take up to 15 minutes so be patient! (If you get **FAIL!** check the FAQ sections in the source link below).
11. Once the process is completed you will see **PASS!** and your phone will automatically reboot. Your phone can take up to 10 minutes to fully boot up the first time, be patient!

*Your phone is now restored to stock Samsung firmware, but follow the steps in the first part of the post to reset your `/user` data for best results.*

---

*Adapted from "How to Unroot/Unbrick Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge!" from AndroidRootz.com.*

---
Tags: updates, ota-update, restore
---


title: How to grant a permission to an app?

text:
# Question
Title: How to grant a permission to an app?
I have an LG G4 with Android 6.0. I installed an application for learning English. The app requires me to watch a video and then to speak. However, I'm having trouble with the latter.

This is the error message:

> In order for the app to work properly, please enable access to the microphone from your phone settings.

What should be done to make the application work?

# Answer
> 0 votes
The problem is Twilight application which is running, you need only to make stop and then give the permissions to the English application and then you can run the Twilight app.

---
Tags: applications, 6.0-marshmallow
---


title: Better way to handle notifications

text:
# Question
Title: Better way to handle notifications
I am using latest android on my phone. One issue I face is that I have a lot of apps installed. Many of them generate notifications which I dont want to loose. If I leave notifications unattended for a day or two, a lot of notifications get stacked up (almost 100+). I dont want to turn off those notifications. I just want better way to handle those notifications:

* is there any way (or app) to archive notifications
* is there any way to group notification belonging to same app (so that I may decide to archive or delete all of them)
* is there any way (or app) which allows me to archive or delete all notifications at specific dates or dates older than the specified one
* For many months my phone has issue of restarting and with each restart the notifications get cleared. So I also want to know if there is any way (or app) that can periodically backup/archive notifications so even if my phones restarts I can always pull them up.

# Answer
Multiple items of interest in this context:

Still, I'm not sure there's a way to control aspects 2 and 3 of your list (group apps,**1** delete by date). I've not yet encountered any app for those, so chances are rather low – but one might have slipped through my net.

---

**1:** Nevolution promises to "bundle notifications" – but it's not clear from its description if "bundles" cover multiple apps
> 1 votes

---
Tags: notifications, 6.0-marshmallow, notification-bar
---


# Question
Title: Change screen unlock method (old Symbian style) on KitKat
Ever since I switched from Symbian to Android I missed a feature that I consider to be of extreme handiness.

On my old Nokias, I had a short timer (like 10 seconds) that locked the screen in a simple way (the standard two-key combination) and then a longer timer (like 15 minutes) that locked the phone with my personal code. The two-key combination was very fast and also unlikely to happen by accident.

Now I'm running Android 4.4.2 on a Samsung SM-C101 and I have this problem: the "simple" lock method is pressing either the home key or the power key, which is bound to happen when I put the phone in my pocket.

I would like to "swipe to unlock" every time the screen goes off, and to "enter a code" if the screen stays off for some minutes.

But that's not an option on Android 4.4.2 , you only get one unlock method.

I don't want to perform a complicated unlock action every time I put my phone in and out of my pocket and I don't want to leave it unprotected in case it gets stolen.

I can't find an app that replicates the Symbian lock properly. I tried some but they behaved poorly. Do you know some app that does what I want? My phone is rooted.

Since the phone is rooted, is there a way to change the standard behavior of the power and home key? Like, press them in sequence to turn the screen on, or at least disable one of the two (I guess the Home key is more likely to be pressed when the phone is inside a pocket).

Thank you very much.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I found a possible solution for this, but it requires root:

The app "Sequence Unlock" can wake up the screen with a combination of volume up&down and (this is optional) disable the power&home button (only both together unfortunately)

It requires the Xposed Framework

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, samsung, lock-screens
---


# Question
Title: Samsung Galaxy S stuck upgrading firmware. Should I unplug my phone? Should I keep on waiting?
I tried to upgrade my firmware on my Samsung Galaxy S using Kies

The Firmware upgrade appears to have gotten stuck.

Kies says

Upgradeing firmware... Do not disconnect a mobile device from the PC during upgrade process Progress Bar has "Upgrade is in progress.." and is stack at about 1/3

The phone screen shows a green triangle with Downloading... below it and "Do not turn off Target!!! at the bottom.

It has been this way for about an hour.

What should I do?

Should I unplug my phone? Should I keep on waiting?

I really don't want to end up with a brick.

# Answer
I disconnected the cable

Kies popped up an error message which said, the upgrade failed and offered to try to recover for me.

By following the instructions on screen I was able to recover my device.
> 11 votes

# Answer
I had the exact experience tramster had. I didn't wait nearly as long however. In all I tried about 5 times. My best theory is a loss of connection through a flaky USB connection. I switched from the front USB port on my computer to the back one.

Eventually it crashed during an emergency reset. I thought I was in trouble. I the emergency reset again, which completed. I was shocked to see that it didn't revert to the previous version, but installed the update instead! bonus.

Another Kies problem; long file extensions. Remove or rename all files with a period (.) followed by more than 16 characters. This is particularly common with imported music files. "Dance by Dr. know featuring RX-man" for example has what the device sees as a very long extension. Remove the Dr. and you are good to go.

Connect in USB mode on the computer and do a search for \*.?????????????????\* to find all the offending files. I found.one.file.that.had lots of periods. That won't be a problem though because none of them are longer than 16 characters.
> 3 votes

# Answer
I did faced the same problem, but resolved successfully in second attempt.

* See if you have any USB autorun restrictions for USB devices, I do have USB Security software Installed, which disables autorun feature for all external devices connects to PC either USB or any optical drive.
* Try lengthened the display timeout for your mobile device (I set it to 30 minutes) to ensure your device do not got disconnected and system re-connects it during upgrade process.

There was a failure for my first upgrade attempt, I waited for around 40 minutes (after firmware download completed from Samsung server), then I removed the USB cable and Kies asked whether I want to stop upgrade process or not? I chose yes and closed the program. After that I restarted my device and I saw an empty battery and the device went off, I restarted the device after connecting the USB cable and now I saw a Green battery with small dots below showing progress, simultaneously I saw a window showing me to enable emergency repair for firmware, I followed steps and that wasn't successful, but my device was working perfect after that process.

I followed the first 2 steps mentioned above and then ran the upgrade process again and it was a smooth process upgrading the firmware successfully.

Thanks.
> 1 votes

# Answer
I had faced same problem on Windows 7. Then I tried updating firmware from Windows XP and it worked without any problem.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Galaxy S's are nearly unbrickable, I've never heard of one being bricked apart from the (very few) hardware locked ones. Firmware updates have quite often failed for me and worked the next time I tried. So I would go ahead and unplug it and retry. The likely worst case is that you'll need to use Odin.
> 0 votes

# Answer
If you are encountering issues or lack of update make sure that your Kies window is maximized before proceeding with the update. The hidden popups do happen and you will otherwise not be able to find them. Once the window is maximized the popups get focus and you should be able to proceed with the update.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Well, for me it started the download process, and then Kies said it could not recognise the phone, and disconnected it - but the phone (A Galaxy S) was still in the "downloading, do not turn off" screen. No other recovery other than to restart with battery reset. Fingers crossed...

Well it booted at least.

On thing to consider would be to force Kies to run in compatibility mode, given that it is a 2013 program - to Win 7, or even Win XP (above poster gives that clue). I am trying this on a Win 8.1 rig
> 0 votes

# Answer
I had to open task manager and end all processes like skype, icloud, last.fm, spotify. once there was a decent amount of cpu and memory available, the program went from 69% complete, to 85% to 100% within five mins of when i opened task manager.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s, samsung-kies, device-firmware
---


# Question
Title: How to repair an i Robot tablet which won't boot?
My I.Robot 7180 ICS OS4.0 tablet was drained, when charged I tried to open it again but it was only stucked loading in the black screen with android logo showing. How to make this work again?

# Answer
Consider doing a full wipe of your tablet. I had this on a Galaxy Tab. Follow those instructions but **remember you will lose all your data**.

*Instructions:*

1. Turn off your Android Tablet.
2. Press and hold Volume + and Power button.
3. Release Volume + and Power button when you see message on screen.
4. On Android Stomach Repair Logo Screen, press again Volume + and Power button.
5. On Hard Reset Menu Screen, use the Volume button to scroll up and down and use the Power button to select (click on).
6. Scroll down to Wipe Data / Factory Reset and click on it.
7. Scroll down to Yes – Delete All User Data and click on it.
8. After Data Wipe Complete click on Reboot System Now.

Source: http://www.askmefast.com/\_why\_does\_my\_android\_warp\__phone\__keep\_freezing-qna6151757.html#q3381869
> -1 votes

---
Tags: boot
---


# Question
Title: Any way to remotely turn on location services without root
so I lost my phone this morning and I tried to use the standard android device manager to track it but it's useless without location services, which I turn off due to it draining too much battery power.

Is there any way to turn it on so I can used ADM or is there another method which can track my phone without location services, maybe using something like wifi hotspots?

I'm not sure which exact android firmware I have but it's above 5.0.0 if that's of any help and it's a xperia z1

# Answer
> 1 votes
No, there is no hope to activate location service remotely without root access or without a system app. Change in the state of location service requires editing secure settings which cannot be done without root access or without system UI (user consent) or without a system app having the permission *android.permission.WRITE\_SECURE\_SETTINGS*. Since your Android doesn't meet any criteria I suggest you do not invest your time anymore in this direction.

As for any other method: I do not know but a local law enforcement agency may be able to assist you with common mobile tracking techniques.

Related: Is it possible to enable Location Services via Shell?

---
Tags: gps-tracking, location-services
---


title: I can't delete files

text:
# Question
Title: I can't delete files
I have an issue with my phone, the phone doesn't delete files. When I delete a file for example a 1 gig file or a game with that same size, the file is gone in the file manager, but the space on my phone doesn't change.

My storage space WAS 1 Gig, and after I delete a 1 Gig file, the storage space should be 2 Gig, but it ends up still being 1 Gig.

I tried to do a factory reset, and also tried to upgrade my phone to Marshmallow, but the problem is still there. (Note: My phone is rooted)

# Answer
> 0 votes
I haven't got a rooted phone but the only solution I can give to you is to delete the files from the system applications.

I.e. instead of from the file Explorer, delete photos from the gallery app. And apps from the application manager.

---
Tags: samsung
---


title: Google Play Store only shows games

text:
# Question
Title: Google Play Store only shows games
Every time I load up the play store it only shows me games. Is there anyway to customize it so I see other apps besides games?

# Answer
> 0 votes
There does not seem to be a way of setting view preferences to a greater degree but you may be interested in launching the Play Store to directly show a collection (it wouldn't omit games). This command can help:

```
am start -a android.intent.action.VIEW -n com.android.vending/com.google.android.finsky.activities.MainActivity -d "http://play.google.com/store/apps/collection/<collection_name>" --user 0

```

*\<collection\_name\>* refers to a name of available collections. Per the document Linking to Your Products the available collections are:

```
----------------------------------------------------
**Collection**                      **collection_name**
----------------------------------------------------
Staff Picks (Featured)          featured
Editor's Choice                 editors_choice
Top Paid                        topselling_paid
Top Free                        topselling_free
Top New Free                    topselling_new_free
Top New Paid                    topselling_new_paid
Top Grossing                    topgrossing
Trending                        movers_shakers
Best Selling in Games           topselling_paid_game
-----------------------------------------------------

```

E.g.: to directly launch into Editor's choice, the command would be:

```
am start -a android.intent.action.VIEW -n com.android.vending/com.google.android.finsky.activities.MainActivity -d "http://play.google.com/store/apps/collection/editors_choice" --user 0

```

As for launching the app a bit comfortably, you can use my answer available here. It would help you to setup a customized app shortcut for Play Store on home screen.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Like Andrew said, there is no way to customise the homepage because Google sets the themes.

If you want personalised recommendations, it does that automatically if you scroll down the page (should see a 'recommended for you' tab.). This is dictated by what apps you have installed, previously installed and what's on your wishlist.

Another way of seeing only apps you like is by going onto the categories tab, and picking your favoured app category to browse.

^\_^

---
Tags: google-apps
---


# Question
Title: Black screen for about a minute after the startup sequence
When I start up my device, I often have to sit through a black screen for a minute or so before it asks me the PIN code of my SIM. This didn't used to be the case before. The black screen comes up after the Nexus' regular loading animation and is completely empty except for the status bar at the top.

Then after entering my PIN I see a 'Process system isn't responding. Do you want to close it?' message on top of my home screen. I can just tap 'OK' and then use my phone like I normally would, but it's annoying.

Why does this happen and how can I avoid the extra waiting time? I have a Nexus 5 with Android Marshmallow.

# Answer
It may just be because your phone cannot handle marshmallow.

You have a Nexus 5 (released in 2013), therefore when you bought it, it would have been designed for Kitkat. The phone has now been through two other major os updates (lollipop and marshmallow). Because these updates are designed to work fluently with newer models, older phones are expected to see long loading times.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: nexus-5, 6.0-marshmallow, boot
---


title: Disable "vibrate" in lock screen

text:
# Question
Title: Disable "vibrate" in lock screen
When in lock-screen, I have to move the middle circle over the "lock" on right hand side. The device vibrates 3x during it - is it possible to disable all the vibrations?

(Using ICS)

# Answer
> 3 votes
No, this is not an option.

Actually this seems like a bug as this should be controlled by the option, `Vibrate on Touch` under `Sound` in the settings. Either that, or the option `Vibrate on Touch` should remain visible when setting the screen security option to `Slide` in the `Security` part of the settings.

You may want to report this as a bug to the Android team using the Android Issue Tracker.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Settings - sound & notification - Other sounds

---
Tags: lock-screens, vibration
---


# Question
Title: cant get my emails over a month old even though i didnt erase them
I have a Samsung Galaxy Tab A Model SM-T550 and I'm unable to see any emails older than about two months, but I did not delete the emails. How can I view my older emails?

# Answer
If you are using the Gmail app or the default email app, you can set the timeframe in which you want to sync emails by going to **Settings \> \[youraccount@gmail.com\] \> Days of mail to sync** (default: 30). Increasing this value will give you a longer history of your emails, but keep in mind that syncing emails over a large timeframe may take up significantly more storage space on your device.

*Note: the wording for "Days of mail to sync" may vary depending on which email app to use.*
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications, email
---


title: Moto E XT1022 Downgrade to Kitkat Issue

text:
# Question
Title: Moto E XT1022 Downgrade to Kitkat Issue
I've Moto E with Lollipop 5.1 updated. This Version of OS gives me troubles like Disables Networks, Doesnot go in Wifi Settings etc., since a week ago. Before that, its working good only. Warranty for this mobile also expired. So that, i have tried to install my Older 4.4.4 kitkat Version to my Moto E using this Tutorial. Downgrade from Lollipop to KitKat for Moto E

I've done all those steps mentioned in the downgrade process. I've used the some resource files mentioned in that youtube page. But problem arised in the final process of Downgrade.

After formatting process, it gives me error that "Invalid Signed Image" & "Preflash Validation Failed". I Could not find out any solution for this issue. Now my phone has no OS. SO Can anyone suggest me to Boot OS to my Phone?

Any suggestions will be greatly helpful to me..

# Answer
If you really want to downgrade your moto e to Kitkat. Then there are two option, one is install stock kitkat rom by this method and another one is flash a custom recovery like CWM or TWRP in your phone and then flash a zip distribution of a ROM that you like. But i'll recommend to follow second option because if you go for first option, then as you already mentioned that your current OS is Lollipop which updates the bootloader accordingly and if you go for kitkat then the bootloader may cause problem not always but there are chances and I have bricked my phone this way.Assuming you have moto e first gen. follow this link to install TWRP custom recovery.You can find your phone's flashable firmware from here. Do it with caution, hope you get your phone alive again.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, 5.1-lollipop, downgrade, motorola-moto-e
---


# Question
Title: Let my friend check my locations while I am taking a stranger's car?
I am thinking about taking a long-distance rideshare offered by a stranger on Craigslist. For safety, I would like my friends to track my location, until I reach the destination and tell them that I safely arrive.

1. Is it possible to use my Android phone to

* share my location with others during my travel, and
    * then stop sharing my location after I arrive?
2. If yes, does it depend on the signal strength of my mobile carrier along the way? Or does it only rely on the GPS, which isn't affected by mobile signal strength? My mobile carrier uses Sprint network, which usually has worse signal strength than other networks in remote areas.

Thanks.

# Answer
As there's no on-board feature covering your needs, I'd recommend taking a look at Glympse. With this app you can decide when to start or stop sharing your location, you could even set a timeout. Only you would need to have the app installed, and those you've shared your location to can watch it on any web-enabled device:

> Glympse is a fast, free, and simple way to share your location safely using GPS tracking in real time with friends and family!
>
> No sign up required! Only those you share with can view your Glympse from any web-enabled device.

For alternatives, please take a look at my Location Sharing list.

Any solution will depend on your phone having internet access: it can't work with GPS alone. GPS is only a way for your phone to find out where it is: it doesn't itself allow anyone else to know your location. If you go outside of data coverage, your location will stop updating.
> 3 votes

# Answer
Why don't you try using GPS tracking Apps, there are quite a few available in google play store. - GPS Phone Tracker etc.,

So that way they can track your location and check if you reached the destination and once you reach the destination they can give you a call or vice-versa to check on you.

Yes, GPS plays an important part in this task to pinpoint your location.

**P.S**\- I use this app with my family and it works fine. I couldn't add more than one link, but if you search on Google Play Store you should be able to find many more apps similar to this one.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: gps, geolocation, location-services
---


title: TWRP USB-OTG won't work?

text:
# Question
Title: TWRP USB-OTG won't work?
I have a nexus 7 (2012). I have installed the most ercent version of TWRP for it, and TWRP seems to work. Im trying to do this, and have reached the part where it says

> Once Team Win boots, go into Wipe and select Advanced Wipe. Select all checkboxes except for USB-OTG, and slide to wipe.

Only USB-OTG didn't even show up in the advanced wipe partitions menu. The menu inlcuded: \- Dalvik Cache \- System \- Cache \- Data \- Internal Storage

I then trawled the internet and found (alas, can't seem to find it again) a thread on the xda-forums with with a similar question. It told me that a fix was to make sure that:

* "Use rm-rf instead of formatting" was ticked on in settings
* That USB-OTG was mounted in the mount menu

So i ticked "Use rm-rf instead of formatting" in settings then I went into the mount menu and I tried to tick USB-OTG. The option to select USB-OTG was there, but when I pressed it the box on the left didn't cross. I tested mounting and unmounting all of the other options to see if it was aproblem in that area. Nope, all the other mounted and unmounted fine! Selecting USB-OTG in storage didn't do anyhing either (as in I could press the icon to select it, but it wouldn't actually select, also the readout on this screen said USB-OTG had 0 data...)

Other than explaing or helping with all that, my question is also 'does it matter?'. Common sense tells me that if I don't have any USB-OTG connected and I just wipe everything in the advanced wipe, it will have the same effect as what the Guardian Project guide says? IDK but please help a noob out.

I'm fairly new to this (could you tell?) so all help is good, and I'm happy with command line 'deep' stuff (my main laptop which i'm using for this runs linux) including the TWRP command line.

Sorry for long post, didnt want to leave stuff out

Thanks

# Answer
I formatted my pen drive in FAT file system and restarted the recovery. Then it allowed me to tick the USB OTG. And I could access all the files in pen drive inside TWRP. I used it to load the CM mod. FAT32 may also work though I haven't tested it.

Edit: FAT32 also works.
> 2 votes

# Answer
Your common sense is correct. Also your quotes it says

> check all checkboxes EXCEPT usb-otg

(on the go). But anyway if no external things are connected then nothing will show and nothing will wipe because nothing is there.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: recovery-mode, linux, twrp
---


title: Notification bar key-binding?

text:
# Question
Title: Notification bar key-binding?
I have a bluetooth keyboard that I've set up in such a way that I can essentially use every function on my phone using just they keyboard, with home and menu and arrow keys and such. The only *major* thing I still can't do is look at my notifications! I have to reach up to pull the bar down, and I can't find a key binding to just pull the notification bar down. Does anyone know of one?

In other words, is there a command in the format: `key ### NOTIFICATION_PULL WAKE_DROPPED`

or does someone know of another way I could accomplish this?

# Answer
A workaround at least while in the main launcher home screen is to press MENU and then NOTIFICATIONS.

Else get HelloStatusBar and assign it to a shortcut key. You can also try Status bar Expander which uses a long-press on the menu key to drop the bar wherever you are.

Naturally, YMMV as certain devices don't support these apps.
> 2 votes

# Answer
In Android 6 (aka Android M and Android Marshmallow), Win+N works.
> 3 votes

---
Tags: notification-bar, external-keyboard, keyboard-shortcuts
---


# Question
Title: How do I record slow motion video on the LG G5?
With the camera in auto mode I can select slo-mo from the mode menu and it displays 'Tap (camera) to record slow motion video'.

However, when I record it's at normal speed and I see no options for changing the record speed.

Any help appreciated...

# Answer
> 1 votes
It does actually record in Slow motion but you need to go to the inbuilt LG video player to play back in slow speed. It is here that you can modify the speed when you edit the video. You can also set sections of the video to work in certain speeds which is pretty cool.

---
Tags: camera
---


title: Can I use a Pebble with CyanogenMod

text:
# Question
Title: Can I use a Pebble with CyanogenMod
I can't seem to find an answer to this question using my favourite search engine.

Is it possible to use a Pebble watch with an Android phone running CyanogenMod, assuming that it is possible to install the Pebble App via an APK file?

I'm wondering whether anyone has got this working, or knows that it definitely won't work because CyanogenMod does not include 'features' which are in the normal Android operating system it's expecting to be there.

I can provide more information about which specific phone and CM version if this is necessary to answer the question.

# Answer
The answer to this question will likely vary from device to device because CyanogenMod focuses their efforts on popular devices, and older phones don't get as much love and attention.

From my research, success with the Pebble also then varies per device (source , , ). Some people have had success and never encounter a single issue. Others have connectivity issues (not connecting, connection drops, etc.) or battery draining problems.

Suggested solutions are:

1. Flash a different Kernel
2. Try any other aftermarket Android project (AOKP, PacMan, SlimRoms, Paranoid)

**Conclusion:** You will probably need to flash the ROM(s) and test it yourself. ALWAYS BACKUP FIRST. Copy that backup to an external device, just in case. It more than likely that it will work without any hiccups. If for whatever reason you're not satisfied, then you can always restore to your backup.

**Sidenote:** your statement that "CyanogenMod does not include 'features' which are in the normal Android operating system" is incorrect. From CyanogenMod's About page:

> Based on the Android Open Source Project, CyanogenMod is designed to increase performance and reliability over Android-based ROMs released by vendors and carriers such as Google, T-Mobile, HTC, etc.

They use the same Android source code as any other vendor, except that they actually improve and enhance the Android user experience. They do not remove standard features and services. I think of CM as what Android *should* be, but thats debatable.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Late response: You won't even need the official Pebble app for that. I successfully initialized my *Pebble Time Steel* using the FOSS Gadgetbridge app**1** (CM11 here). This way you won't even need to create an account. Only drawback of this solution: access to the Pebble app store isn't implemented in the app (at least currently not). But if you downloaded `.pbw`/`.pbz` files, you can install and manage them with this app. Even firmware updates are possible.

**TL;DR:** Yes, you can use a Pebble watch with CyanogenMod :)

PS: Related: Smartwatch compatibility

---

**1:** also available at F-Droid
> 1 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, pebble
---


title: Annoying notification bar

text:
# Question
Title: Annoying notification bar
Ever since I updated to the newest version on my S5 a month ago I've been annoyed by the new notification bar, the bar used to be out of the way and was only as big as the black bar up top. The new bar is annoyingly big, it's always popping up over text I'm trying to read and I keep accidentally pressing the notification bar when I'm trying to navigate my phone. Is there a way to go back to the old bar?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Looks like you are disturbed with Heads Up (new feature) notifications.
It will show a pop up notification on your screen. You can turn it off by Upgrading to any custom ROM or you can use HeadsOff app.
Which looks like a workaround for turn off Heads Up notifications.
I haven't tried this yet. But please take a look.

# Answer
> -1 votes
What you're talking about sounds like "Heads Up". This is a new Android feature that shows notifications easier. You can't turn this off unless you have Android M. But you shouldn't have Android M because the S5 doesn't get this update. The only other option is to run a custom ROM such as cyanogenmod.

---
Tags: notifications, notification-bar, notification-icons
---


# Question
Title: How do I force quit an app while it is on the foreground?
I have a malfunctioning security app. It's benign, but it has enabled its proactive security mode when I removed it from the device administrators. This is good, and what that means is that it put the phone in sleep mode and overrid the lock screen to require my password. This what it's supposed to do, but it doesn't accept my password.

Here's the situation:

* I removed the app from device administrators.
* It put the phone in sleep mode and changed the lock screen.
* It disabled the menu buttons.
* I cannot exit the screen without entering my password, which it does not accept.

So my plan is to force stop the app, like you can do in iOS. For obvious reasons, I cannot enter the settings app and force quit the app conventionally.

# Answer
If your USB Debugging is enabled, the you can force close an app using ADB.

```
adb shell am force-stop com.my.app.package

```

This command will force close the application.
But you need to **know the specific package name**. If you are not sure about the package name please **google for Application's apk file**, u can easily find package name there. In case you are not familiar with ADB at all please use installer described here
> 2 votes

---
Tags: lock-screens, force-close, force-stop
---


title: Pushbullet app and facebook integration

text:
# Question
Title: Pushbullet app and facebook integration
Dear android users is there a possibility to integrate facebook with pushbullet?

If yes I would be really grateful for answer which will show me how can I do it.

1. By integration I mean that Writing messages from pushbullet and sending messages to a person from Facebook.
2. All messages, notifications from facebook.com will be shown in pushbullet.

# Answer
I found and answer by myself.

The best idea is to use Facebook Lite. In setting change the option to show notification and you got fully integrated messages from Facebook with Pushbullet. Of course you may use Facebook Messanger but it seems to be a little bit laggy.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: facebook
---


# Question
Title: LG G3 - 4.4.2 - Stop SMS converting to MMS
I used to have Nexus 4, I was able to disable SMS converting to MMS. It did not convert my messages to MMS when I do group messaging. Now I have **LG G3** with Andorid 4.4.2, when when I do group messaging, it sends it as MMS automatically. i went to Messaging Menu - Creation Mode - Set it to "Restricted". it still does that. Is there any way to stop MMS completely?

Thanks for your time!

# Answer
> 1 votes
So what you need to do is; before you create the message, when you are at the screen where all of your text messages show up, tap the menu button in the to right of the screen. Then tap settings and go to multimedia message. Once there uncheck the box that says Group Messaging. This can only be done from the screen where you see all your other text messages and can create a new message. Not once you are in the text itself. Hope this helps.

---
Tags: sms, mms
---


# Question
Title: Email through sms is in separate threads
When I receive an sms from an email address, the name of the thread is something like `0000000000000001`. If I respond, the person gets it, but then if the person responds to *that*, it comes in a new thread called `0000000000000002`. The next comes in `0000000000000003`, etc. I have tried adding the email address as a contact, but each new message still comes in a new thread. What can I do to stop this?

I am using Silence (the messaging application) on a Nexus 6P on Android 6.0.1

# Answer
There might be a problem with your message app. Unfortunately there is no possibility to get rid of this problem. You got a few options to choose:

1. > Go to: Settings \> Applications \> Manage Applications \> Select the Messaging App
>
> Choose 'Clear Data' and also 'Clear Cache'.

**You will lose all data and text messages in your phone.**

2. Try to install another SMS app there are plenty on Google Store. IMO the one of the bests is the Textra. Hope you enjoy it.
3. Maybe it is connected with an APN issue.
4. This might help.
> 0 votes

# Answer
If you are using the Google messaging application, you should file a bug report. As stated in the documentation, search for your bug first before reporting a new bug.

This is a long-term fix; do not expect quick turnaround on bugs getting fixed.

Do not expect others to do bug reporting for you. If no one says anything, the developers may not know there is a problem.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: sms, email, nexus-6p
---


title: Skipping Android Security Updates?

text:
# Question
Title: Skipping Android Security Updates?
I am rooted on my Nexus 6P and I used Flashfire to install the March security update. I didn't install any of the previous updates and haven't installed any after the March one.

This has made me think of a few questions:

Does the March update contain all fixes from prior updates as well?

Do I have to install each incremental security update or can I just install the May one without installing April's?

Should I go back and install the previous patches and if yes, will this negatively affect anything?

I have noticed a lot of random reboots and the device running hotter than before, although I am not sure if this is because of the manual updates or a bad app.

Any insight is appreciated.

# Answer
You do need to install security updates incrementally, as each release has its own `/system` image that has had all the previous patches already applied to it. When installing an update, most of the time, `/system` is completely wiped and then replaced with the new image in your update file.

About the negative performance, a common issue is that the update is **dirty** flashed, meaning that the `/data` partition was not wiped with the new system image install. Try first wiping your Dalvik/cache partitions from your recovery. If that doesn't help, you can try wiping `/data` to see if that will solve your performance issues.

***Wiping `/data` will remove all user data from the device, so be sure to back up any important data before performing a factory reset.***
> 2 votes

# Answer
> Does the March update contain all fixes from prior updates as well?

Yes and No. No, the incremental update contains fixes not covered in last incremental update, which more or less comes down to patching newfound vulnerabilities most of the time. Yes, the latest or appropriate fastboot image would cover all the earlier fixes.

> Do I have to install each incremental security update\[?\]

Yes and No. It comes down to how you want to update. If the boot and system partition has not tampered with and if you want to save bandwidth but intend to have the latest update, then go with incremental OTA updates. If your system or boot partition has been tampered or otherwise, then use the appropriate fastboot image available for your Nexus device here.

> \[Can\] I just install the May one without installing April's?

Yes and No. Yes, you can switch to any newer update using the fastboot image I noted above. Flashing through fastboot requires an unlocked bootloader and unlocking a bootloader causes full wipe of user data.

No, you cannot switch to any random newer update using incremental OTA update. Reason: The incremental update requires one of the two build numbers to match, *source* and *target*. *Source* is the build number the currently installed Android system ***should be using*** and *target* is the build number of the installed Android system and same as the target build the update carries. Technically, it doesn't matter whether the build number of installed Android system matches with expected *source* since the update uses the build number of stock recovery as the build number of installed Android.

**Note:** stock recovery is automatically updated, if required, at every boot using *install-recovery.sh* located under */system/bin* or */system/etc*.

Consider this example: assume that you're on March security level with current build number MHC19I. You intend to side-load (since Android would not suggest you or provide an option anyway through *System update*) the May security level update with build MTC19T. During side-loading the update would check for *source* and *target*. It expects the *source* as the build number of the last update shipped from vendor which would be April security update with build number MHC19Q. Since that doesn't match, it would expect the build number of the target it is carrying which is MTC19T. Since neither of the build number matches, the installation would abort.

In case of confusion with *target*, understand that by expecting *target* I meant that the build number of the installed Android OS which would be same as the build number of the target the update is carrying.

> I have noticed a lot of random reboots and the device running hotter than before, although I am not sure if this is because of the manual updates or a bad app.

It could be anything. However, given that installation of an OTA update is a dirty flash, remnants of previous version of files may be a cause. For many folks, clearing cache and/or data partition or doing factory reset fixes the issue, as LyricWulf noted.

**Note:** if you're using stock recovery, clearing data partition or doing factory reset would completely wipe any user data.

Reference: my own experiments with Nexus 6; the document OTA Package Tools.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: updates, ota-update, nexus-6p
---


# Question
Title: How to Enable Android phone for full Tamil Indic Interface
I'd like to buy an Android phone to gift to somebody who only knows Tamil. From the little research I've done there are Android phones setup in Indic languages available readymade (like Robosoft), but I'm not very happy with that.

I've also come across the thread below but even after going through the full process (with the Android emulator) I'm unable to get the full tamil interface (specifically in contacts list). I want to add/edit contacts in Tamil and hopefully back them up in a Google account.

How to make an Android device to display complex rendering of Indic characters?

Is there a check-list or help available somewhere.

Thanks Ganesh

# Answer
> 6 votes
Rendering Tamil characters is a challenge as there is no one glyph to one character mapping as in English.

Earlier versions of Android (before 4.1) does not have this support natively. Which means unless the manufacturer or the author of the ROM decides to additional support, Tamil characters cannot be rendered properly. There were few hacks which helped those users who didn't have such ROMs. But those hacks were not always successful.

With many users lamenting on Google's support pages, I guess Google decided to provide this feature from Android 4.1 onwards.

These are the ability of the vanilla Android ROM (i.e. the factory images for Nexus 4/7/10):

**Supported:**

1. Display Tamil characters with proper conjunct rendering in browser
2. Display Tamil characters with proper conjunct rendering out of browser in file names, SMS, contacts (which means you can have a contact and its details in Tamil characters).
3. Display Tamil characters with proper conjunct rendering in apps like notes editor, facebook, twitter, ebook reader etc.

**Not supported:**

1. No keyboard to input Tamil character - Swype has Tamil language support. You even swipe along the keys to type which is much better and much needed input method for Tamil input.
2. No interface language as Tamil - which means the menu, home screen, settings etc will not be in Tamil.

I have a rooted LG P500 which runs Android 2.3.3. Thanks to LG which had added support for proper rendering of Tamil characters in contacts, file names, text (SMS) messages and many other apps. With Swype keyboard I am even able to type in Tamil as well.

However, when I tried to use a clone of Cyanogenmod ROM based on Android 4.2.2, I observed that Tamil characters are not even displayed (all characters were displayed as empty space). Replacing fonts didn't do the trick. I later understood that due to limited `/system` partition size of my phone, the ROM developer has to chop off some components and I guess whatever did help to render the Tamil characters has been axed.

I also have a Nexus 7 running vanilla Android 4.2.2 and it works superb with Tamil. Again, Swype also works and I am even able to mix and match English and Tamil characters in all apps.

So if you want to ensure Tamil can be read without any user intervention, I would suggest you to buy phones that have Android 4.2 installed. Again chances are there they can be trimmed as my Lg P500 experienced.

**Update:** I could see this answer being upvoted in spite of being quite old. Now (Marshmallow) Google has provided Indic keyboard support where one can enable Tamil keyboard to type Tamil. Still gesture typing a.k.a swiping across the characters is not supported for Tamil. Same is applicable for many Indic languages.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Buy Redmi phones. It has pre installed Tamil language. I am using that phone only.Or else Flash phone with Cyanogen or MiUi mod. But it will tamper your phone warranty. Do it at your own risk. The best Tamil keyboard i know is Sellinam. Currently i am using that keyboard app only. தங்கள் கேள்விக்கான விடை கிடைத்திருக்கும் என நம்புகிறேன்.

---
Tags: 4.1-jelly-bean, languages, localization, fonts, google-contacts
---


title: Importing contacts from old dumb phone

text:
# Question
Title: Importing contacts from old dumb phone
My mom uses an ancient Samsung SGH-C140 dumb phone with a mini SIM that has 150 contacts capacity. However all her contacts are stored on the phone, and there are around 400 of them. After all these years I have *finally* managed to convince her to allow me to buy a new phone for her (that too only when the keypad of the old one has given way)!

Now the problem is that the new Android phone uses a micro SIM, and I'm at a complete loss as to how to go about transferring those 400-odd contacts to it.

The only option I could think of was to go get the mini SIM cut to micro SIM size, then repeatedly use the **Copy All Contacts to SIM** feature to transfer from the old phone to SIM (while using the outer mini SIM sized bracket), and then from the SIM (without the bracket) to the new phone. The problem with this method is that the Samsung phone doesn't allow me to select the contacts, and always copies the same set of 150 contacts to the SIM before complaining about lack of space. (Aargh, which idiot made this phone's software?!)

Since I simply can't afford the loss of any of the contacts, what do I do? Do I *really* have no other option than to sit and manually read and enter all those contacts again?

P.S. I thought briefly about checking on some sort of PC software for the ancient phone, but even if it exists and can run on Windows 7/8.1/10, I have no clue where I'd get the required phone-to-PC cable from at a reasonable price.

Edit: OK, so the UK site for the phone mentions **Samsung PC Studio Image Editor** and **Samsung PC Studio Internet Access**. I assume the latter is the one that *might* support contacts export, but aside from the cable issue, there's the additional problem of how I would even export those contacts using the software to a format that Android would understand. If the software supports export/import of contacts using some proprietary format only from/to the phone itself, then there's obviously no point using it.

# Answer
> 0 votes
One possible option, if you can be sure which 150 contacts are being copied to the SIM in the old phone, is to transfer 150 contacts, copy them to the smart phone, and *delete them from the old phone*. Then, next cycle, you'll get the next 150, and in twenty minutes or so you'll be done. The trick is being sure you're deleting the same contacts that were transferred to the SIM.

---
Tags: contacts, 6.0-marshmallow, import
---


# Question
Title: I lost my phone please help to locate it
I have lost my phone and I used the Samsung account to locate it, but it didn't work. Also, I told the police using the IMEI number of the phone. In the same day I looked into Android Device Manager, but it showed nothing. Even it being stolen on 4/5 and the phone turned on on 8/5 because my friend saw my Viber account once. Can I at least locate the last time my phone was turned on to find my phone?

# Answer
> 1 votes
You could try looking into the Google Location History. You can access that information by logging into the Google Dashboard with the google account you had on that phone. However, I'm not sure if you can activate location history remotely if you didn't already have it enabled.

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Tags: 4.4-kitkat, lost-phone
---


title: Is battery consumption linear?

text:
# Question
Title: Is battery consumption linear?
I am benchmarking an app using the batteryhistorian. The result is a chart where every percentile is a "tick".

After I've measured the battery consumption and let the battery drain to half, I would like to be able to save time by making a change and restarting a measurment without having charged the deviced back to full.

**Is it a fair approximation to assume that a drop from 85% to 84% is the same as a drop from say 64% to 63% when benchmarking an application?**

# Answer
> 8 votes
* Li Ion battery discharge is not strictly linear, (unlike a capacitor ). This ensures available power is utilised till the end of battery charge

* Assuming your app is not a heavy power hog, it is reasonable to extraploate discharge. But, since the discharge isn't strictly linear, it would give better results if

+ Battery drop interval is more , say 5 to 10% and not 1% as proposed
    + Battery drop is not measured below 30% of battery ( to avoid greying into non linear portion of curve)
    + Measuring at 1% drop inherently introduces rounding off errors- if your phone has two digit accuracy, anything between 75.90 to 75.99 would show 76% . In the worst case, the error could be doubled (it won't fall to 75% till it goes below 75.90). Which means a 20% error, and that can be reduced to 2% over a 10% drop
    + Avoid measuring when the battery is fully charged to reduce errors. Measure at about 85% for the first reading and around 50% (or higher ) for second reading after tweaking your app

---
Tags: battery, battery-life, battery-history
---


# Question
Title: Android 6.0 Do-not-Disturb: how to go to vibrate only in certain hours?
I'm trying to familarize myself with my newest Nexus 6p, which runs Android 6.0.1 now.

Do I understand correctly, that currently Do-not-Disturb cannot manipulate calls and notifications volume so that I could set it to go to "Vibrate only" during hours I am in the office?

If not, what is the appropriate method to achieve this? External app only?

**ADDED 13.05.2016** I solved the problem via Tasker.

# Answer
> 1 votes
You are right. Do-not-Disturb cannot manipulate calls and notifications volume.

I think the only way to go to "vibrate only" is to hold volume down key all the way down. But you also need to turn the volume up manually.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, silent-mode, nexus-6p
---


# Question
Title: A way to get the current resolution size and DPI from the command line/terminal/adb?
I've got `adb` access to my android phone.

So I know that I can override screen density and screen resolution with the `am` command provided with Android. That's great and dandy, I guess. But is there a way to grab those two numbers from the command line? I know the `pm` utility can do some information gathering, most notably `pm list features` to see if the Android device has wireless, bluetooth, gps, etc. `pm` doesn't seem to do much more information reporting than this, though.

It would be helpful to know what versions of Android that the command is supported for. Ideally I would like something that works on Android 2.2+ (Froyo), but taking something that only works from 4.0.3+ (Ice Cream Sandwich) is fine too. I would also like it if there was a way to figure this out without root access.

I know that it's possible to get the screen resolution and density programmatically, as described in this question.

# Answer
> 17 votes
the result and precise format of the `dumpsys` command depends on the hardware vendor (of graphics chipset/driver and handset itself) but you should be able to find that info in the `adb shell dumpsys display` output

# Answer
> 13 votes
In Android versions equipped with *wm* tool, you can use the commands:

```
adb shell wm size      # shows the real size and current size
adb shell wm density   # shows the real density and current density

```

<sub>(Click image to enlarge)</sub>

I've tested successfully on stock Android 5.x and 6.x. Since *wm* tool comes with Android 4.3.x and 4.4.x as well, the solution *may* work on them as well.

# Answer
> 6 votes
If `display` service isn't available in `dumpsys`, you may look for line `ro.sf.lcd_density=` into `/system/build.prop`. To get it from phone:

```
adb pull /system/build.prop

```

---
Tags: adb, command-line, screen-resolution
---


# Question
Title: Is an antivirus really needed for Android?
I use Linux for half a decade now, so I am not used to dealing with viruses anymore. To my surprise, I saw some discussion about antiviruses in Android. I haven't installed any yet, but this bugs me: are they really necessary? Are there (or were) any known viruses in the market? Doesn't Google runs an antivirus before allowing an app to the market?

I haven't had no problem in one year of Android, but my cellphone has a lot of important information, and I wouldn't like to be surprised with some virus cleaning my phone, or making international calls while I sleep, or whatsoever. Should I install an antivirus?

# Answer
> 14 votes
You shouldn't need to worry about running an anti-virus on your phone. I would recommend running one on your PC though and having it set to scan peripheral devices. When you plug in your phone and it gets mounted as a mass storage device the desktop's antivirus will scan the phone for viruses' signatures and you will be doing the minimum to ensure your security.

It is an illusion to believe that just because you are running \*nix or OSX you won't benefit from the security afforded by AV software; that said you dont need to spend anything to get a good, lean program especially in Linux.

# Answer
> 12 votes
There have been a few reports of Trojans that basically pretend to do something, but they are actually texting short codes charing you money or stealing data or something. However, I'm not sure how these 'anti virus' programs could actually counter that as they don't have anyway to monitor what these other apps are actually doing.

All you really need to do is take a close look at the permissions requested when you install an app, and ask yourself 'should this app need full internet access and contacts access and location?'

# Answer
> 10 votes
I say no, and I have two reasons for that:

1. Always read the required permissions before installing any application, and ensure that this application needs these permissions for its function and not just asks to do some crap on your phone. Do not allow any application to take permission to tamper with your phone information.
2. Installing an anti-virus app will slow down your phone, so better scan for viruses from your PC.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Antivirus isn't as necessary as it is on Windows but it isn't a bad idea to have it. Google does check apps that are submitted to the Play Store as far as I am aware. However, there have been a few incidents of malicious apps on the Play Store and people downloading these. The bigger issue is apps from outside the Play Store, especially if your device is rooted. It's probably sensible to have antivirus software installed, especially since they are so effective, according to the AV-Test Android results here, where some programs get close to 100% detection rates. This website also includes 'Usability', which includes whether the antivirus slows down the device during normal usage.

# Answer
> 1 votes
In Android Market was only few viruses so the possibility of catching an virus is rare occurrence. The problem is when you download the apps from internet. I highly do not recommend it. ***What about AV for Android phones?***

I am always laughing when people insist that AV for Android device is must have.

**Why it is not necessary?** Consider what the names like kernel, root etc come from. Android is based on Linux and I have never heard about strong viruses for Unix like operating systems. Yes, there is possibility to create virus, yes it might work but only if you give the app permissions. That is why I think that AV for Android is just a scam. So to sum up as long as you download apps from Google market feel comfortable and just forget about viruses.

---
Tags: security, antivirus
---


title: How to disable only telephone network?

text:
# Question
Title: How to disable only telephone network?
Is it possible to disable only the telephone network and not internet network, so as to use the smartphone as a tablet with a only SIM data?

I use Android 6.0 and I have no possibility to use wi-fi, I need to go on the web with the SIM data

# Answer
Yes, you can achieve the desired result bu removing your SIM card and connecting your phone to WiFi.

But using a SIM card and using only internet network and not telephone network is not possible.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, calls, networking, mobile-network
---


# Question
Title: ADB authorization prompt missing in Sony Xperia Z3 Compact (D5803)
I just bought a Sony Xperia Z3 Compact (D5803) and I'm trying to root it. I'm following this link for instructions, but I got stuck at the "Rooting with exploit" step as I can't authorize the connection.

I've already tried:

* Restarting the ADB server
* Rebooting the device
* Rebooting my PC
* Changing from MTP to MSC and back
* Disabling and then enabling USB debugging
* Disabling and then enabling 'Developer options'
* Using various ADB drivers
* Using different ADB binaries
* Deleting my `.Android` folder
* Deleting ADB copies in other tools' folders
* Plugging the device in another port
* Any combination of the above that I can think of

I can't find any other possible solution to this issue on Google. I'm hoping you guys will be able to enlighten me and finally be able to solve this.

**PS**: Something tells me that my PC is the problem here, as I was never able to do this with my old SGS3 either, but I ran out of ideas about what could be causing it anyway.

# Answer
> 0 votes
This helped me, before step 13 "Enable USB debugging on the phone (Settings =\> About phone =\> Click 7 times on Android Build to unlock developer options)" make sure you have enabled MTP over USB on the phone. Sometimes it helps to revoke the approved debug devices as well.

---
Tags: rooting, adb, sony-xperia-z3-compact
---


title: Sync contacts with Facebook Lite

text:
# Question
Title: Sync contacts with Facebook Lite
I've just installed Facebook Lite on my Galaxy A3 with Lollipop and no root. It satisfies all my necessities except for one: the contacts sync, which is present in the full version of Facebook.

I've thought of not uninstalling the full version, but instead using greenify to prevent it from running in the background, so that I can open it sometimes and get contacts to sync, but I wish there was a better solution.

I could not find any specific app to sync contacts because of the restrictions of the new Facebook APIs (in order for them to work properly I should ask all my friends to manually grant permission).

How could I sync my Facebook contacts having just the Lite version of the app running in the background?

# Answer
I have solved my problem with Social Contact Photo Sync.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: contacts, sync, facebook
---


# Question
Title: I want to connect my mobile to system in office through reverse tethering
I am using Yu Yureka Mobile. I want to connect my mobile to system in office through reverse tethering. My Yureka Mobile was running on Cyanogen Mod 12.1 with Kernel version 3.10.49-cyanogenmod-gbca6118. Can anyone help me how to perform reverse tethering on my device?

# Answer
> 0 votes
1. Connect your phone to the PC
2. Enable USB tethering from Settings\>More (Wireless and Networks)\>Tethering and portable Hotspot
3. Assuming a Windows computer in office, go to Network and Sharing Center
4. You should see two active networks, one from your ethernet and the other from your mobile phone (unidentified network)
5. Click on (Ethernet) Connections: *Local Area Network*
6. Properties
7. Click on the Sharing tab and enable the first option. Click Ok and you're done

This method will work well if your office does not use a proxy server to log in.

---
Tags: reverse-tether, micromax-yu-yureka
---


title: managing marshmallow synchronisation

text:
# Question
Title: managing marshmallow synchronisation
My wife and I bought some Android phones at about the same time. She bought a Motorola Moto G2, I bought a Moto E2. They run Android 6 (Marshmallow), System versions 24.41.34 and 24.51.39 respectively

If we go to apps, settings, accounts, Google we see different screens

My E2 has toggle switches that allow me to choose what data gets automatically synchronised from my phone to my online google account. Her G2 doesn't.

How can she turn off all the synchronisation for data she wants only on the phone and not online?

# Answer
> 0 votes
It turns out that on the previous screen, where it lists accounts, on the menu at top right (three vertical dots) you can turn auto-sync on or off globally. This affects whether the screens shown above have individual on/off switches or not.

---
Tags: settings, sync, motorola
---


title: Default dialer issue

text:
# Question
Title: Default dialer issue
I am using samsung S3 and installed Truecaller on this, now when i make a call from truecaller, the options shown in the popup are only the default dialer and Skype, not truecaller. I have cleared all defaults and tried it with multiple dialer apps, but everytime I see only these two options for dialing out. Any idea on how i can use truecaller for dialing out? Thanks Mayank

# Answer
That's the way it should work. Truecaller just provides a dailer. It is not a *call handling* application. The main motto of the Truecaller dailer is to show info of the number before a call is placed.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: phone-app
---


title: Install android on windows 8 tablet

text:
# Question
Title: Install android on windows 8 tablet
I have a Windows 8 tablet (an Asus VivoTab) and I want to dual boot it with android but I am having a rough time figuring out how to flash the android iso to tablet. It has no cd, usb or microSD port. I also thought about booting from network but I don't see this feature in BIOS settings. I read a couple of tutorials about it but all of them tell to burn a usb stick (like this one). The only port my tablet has, is that small micro-B usb where I can't really plug any memory sticks. What am I supposed to do?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Okay, I decided to spend a few bucks on dual USB flash drive so that I can plug it to micro USB port. Actually I was wondering whether there is a way to flash iso to tablet memory with something similar to ADB but this also works fine.

---
Tags: boot, usb, tablet
---


title: Why can't I move all images to SD card?

text:
# Question
Title: Why can't I move all images to SD card?
I wanna move ALL my photos, videos, music, etc. to the SD card, so I can give my phone to a friend.

This is the space used by all that stuff and what I see when I click "Transfer data to SD card":

Only 1 file! (The previous screenshot.) So, why can't it see the half Gigabyte of "Pictures, videos" from the first image, as well as the Downloads, Misc...?

EDIT

I'm using Android 4.4.2 on a Sony Xperia D2104.

# Answer
This would have to do with the manufacturer's implementation of the "file manager" you are using and where it is allowed to move files from and to, most likely out of your control but you did not mention what device or android version or any other information of use to assist in that capacity.

I would suggest connecting the phone to a computer and transferring the files that way, or using a different file manager such as one of the applications in this article which allows relatively full control over the file system and SD card.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, sd-card
---


# Question
Title: Free up phone memory taken up by thumbnails
I have a 16 GB Samsung Galaxy S3 phone - 5.05GB of which is being taken up by thumbnails! Can I move these to my 32GB SD card?

I have tried DMR (duplicate media remover) and that has detected duplicate pics and videos but stops when I try to delete them.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can use clean master to free up your space.
In particular, to delete your thumbnails, follow these steps:

* Install clean master on your phone.
* Open it and click on "start".
* Tap "advanced" on the right top.
* Wait for the app section to load, then tap "gallery".
* Tap "Gallery thumbnails".
* Select all items by checking the box on the top right.
* Tap "clean".
* Tap "clean" again in the confirmation box.

Please note that, after you have deleted your thumbnails, previews of the photos in the gallery will take longer to load the first time.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can try using an app like Es File Explorer

It has a SD Card Analyze tool, which will help you analyze the total space used and give you options to clear some space by deleting unused files, temp file etc.

For the issue with thumbnails, take a backup of all your photos on Google Photos.. then delete all the thumbnails.. deleting thumbnails will not delete the images.. Even if it does delete, you will still have the backup in Google Photos.

# Answer
> 0 votes
If you already have a SD card then you can quickly root your device (https://kingroot.net/) and apply a setting which sees your SD card as internal memory rather than external memory which allows you to put all applications onto it(This setting is included in the root). But you need to be careful as this will burn up the SD card over time so just try to keep data on the card rather than applications so you don't end up booting from the card all the time.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3, external-sd, photos, thumbnails
---


# Question
Title: Phone soft reboots when making or receiving a call [Nexus 6][CM13]
I've got a pretty severe bug that results in my phone soft rebooting every time I try to make a phone call or a phone call would be coming in on the main number.

What I did to try to fix (no luck):

1. Downloaded latest snapshot: https://download.cyanogenmod.org/get/jenkins/158646/cm-13.0-20160418-SNAPSHOT-ZNH0EAO2NL-shamu.zip
2. Downloaded latest gapps for 6.0: http://opengapps.org/ (ARM 6.0 Stock package)
3. Wiped /system, /data, dalvik cache & /cache
4. Installed #1 and #2
5. Wiped /internal storage
6. Updating radio/bootloader to latest available

What's going on? This just started manifesting after I did a `cm13Nighty (4-11-2016)` \> `cm13Snapshot (4-18-2016)` upgrade. I would've thought the reset would fix it at least?

---

Other things I've tried with no luck:

1. Disabling/enabling WiFi Calling
2. Booting into Safe Mode
3. Deleting `com.android.providers.x` folders in `/data/data` & wiped Dalvik/cache again (This fixed WiFi calling consequently - *dysfunctional again after soft-crash* \- *interesting...*)

# Answer
> 14 votes
The issue is the current build of `gapps` \- quick workaround is to manually set the `Phone/Dialer` app as the default `Phone App` in `Settings` -\> `Apps` -\>  -\> `Default Apps` -\> `Phone App`.

Source: https://forum.cyanogenmod.org/topic/124381-dialer-crashes/?do=findComment&comment=590388

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, nexus-6, t-mobile, soft-reboot
---


# Question
Title: Smartphone to smartphone to sim communication
I have purchased a second Android smartphone because the internal memory on my first smartphone was full and I needed to use more space for apps, pictures, and videos. But the second smartphone has no installed sim card (I currently have no need for two sim cards to be used within the same country).

So my question is, provided both phones are on at the same time, and provided no Wi-Fi is available because I happen to be on the road and not at home, what is the best way to have the simless phone utilize the other phone's network operator data network? What network protocol should I use for this and what are the steps involved?

Assume the phone with the sin card is an Android KitKat 4.4.2 and the other a Lollipop 5.1. Thanks.

# Answer
In this case the Android versions, or devices themselves, are largely are not relevant to the answer.

The second phone cannot use the first phone's mobile data directly, it must use it via tethering. Activate the mobile/portable hotspot on the first phone and use the WiFi on the second phone to connect to it just like any other WiFi network.

The preferred method would be transfer all data to the second phone (call logs, SMS messages, pictures, etc), then place the SIM in the second phone and use it as your only device and replace the first phone.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: connection-issues, networking, mobile-network, data-connection
---


# Question
Title: Samsung Galaxy S4 GT I9505 Cyanogenmod 13 6.0.1 Marshmellow 'Andoid starting loop'
I have installed Cyanogenmod 13 6.0.1 from here: http://get.cm/?device=jflte with TWRP recovery, i watched a video and it has alot of good feedback, i double checked everything and install Google apps successfully too. I am now in a android is starting loop, the booting logo of the rom keeps restarting and every ten minutes it says apps starting but it just keeps doing this. I tried formating alldata via the recovery but this doesnt work either. Any suggestions?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Please note that first boot always takes around 5 to 10 minutes to be sure that you've got boot loop on your device.

Before we go into the detailed instructions? Have you tried wiping dalvik cache? If not do it otherwise follow the steps below.

Here is how I would fix this issue:

1. Make sure that you've already installed USB drivers on the PC.
2. Also setup fastboot adb drivers. The minimal adb software by xda developer should work fine.
3. Hopefully you've got the ROM file, extract /unzip to get the boot.img file.
4. Copy it to the Fastboot drivers folder (Not needed if you've enabled site-wide adb commands, If you're not sure what I mean, I have written a guide on my blog)
5. Reboot your phone into custom recovery mode.
6. Run adb fastboot.
7. Type: "fastboot devices" make sure your device is listed.
8. Now type this command to flash the boot.img file:

> fastboot flash boot boot.img

9. Once done reboot your phone using recovery options.

This method has worked for a number of people and devices including Motorola, Google Nexus, LG , Sony and HTC. Feel free to let me know if you have further questions.

---
Tags: cyanogenmod
---


title: To start Microphone in Pebble Classic?

text:
# Question
Title: To start Microphone in Pebble Classic?
There is the setting in Pebble's settings where you can replace Music with Microphone. However, I have not managed to start recording of voice in any mode: phone not logged in vs phone logged in with password. I am using Android with Samsung Galaxy G4. I have the latest Android in the phone.

How can you start microphone in Pebble classic and Android?

# Answer
Install *Recordense* application in Pebble and *Recordense Light* in Android. You can also tag your recordings during recording, which is useful.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: microphone, pebble
---


# Question
Title: Devices are not found when executing command (but "fastboot devices" finds them)
I'm trying to install CyanogenMod on **Nexus 4** and so far I had done this:
\- installed google driver;
\- enabled developer options on my phone;
\- enabled debugging by USB;
\- unlocked my device using ADB;
\- installed CyanogenMod Recovery;

```
PS C:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools> .\fastboot flash recovery .\cm-13.0-20160510-NIGHTLY-mako-
recovery.img

```
* started bootloader;

Then I get the following error trying to push the file to the devuce:

```
PS C:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools> .\fastboot devices
01cf8682d9c98ac0        fastboot
PS C:\Program Files (x86)\Android\android-sdk\platform-tools> .\adb push cm-13.0-20160510-NIGHTLY-mako.zip /sdcard
error: device '(null)' not found

```

I followed CyanogenMod instructions step-by-step, including troubleshooting section, but I keep getting this error.

# Answer
**Update**: This works from Recovery mode:
\- Full factory reset
and then:
\- Apply Update -\> From ADB

```
.\adb sideload cm-13.0-20160510-NIGHTLY-mako.zip

```
> 1 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, adb, nexus-4
---


# Question
Title: Recover photos that got deleted when device switched off?
I have a Moto X Pure running Android 6.0. I have a lot of pictures saved on it. I was recently taking pictures and the device ran out of battery and switched off. When I got home and turned it back on, I couldn't locate the last 30 or so photos that I took when the battery was running low. The videos that I took during this same time show a file size of 0kB and are not openable. However, all the older photos - even the ones I took earlier on the same day - are completely unaffected. I am wondering what could have caused this? Is there a way to recover the photos without having to root the device (most file recovery software that Google searches showed up need the device to be rooted to access internal memory)? I have around 1 GB of free space and I've never received a low disk space notification, nor did I get any other error when taking these pictures. Any help is appreciated.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can connect your device to PC/Laptop whatever you have and use one of the data recovery tool like recuva\*, easeus, etc. So, download easeus on your PC and connect your phone then select your device to scan for picture or videos or whatever you like. Good thing is that you **don't need the rooted device** to do that.
\*Recuva cannot act on an Android device's storage, if device has been set to MTP. But if your files were on MicroSD cards you can use recuva to scan them.(thanks to Death Mask Salesman)

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, data-recovery, photos, moto-x
---


title: Wifi hotspot and Flashlight

text:
# Question
Title: Wifi hotspot and Flashlight
I am being told by my device (HTC one E8) that the camera flash (and thereby flashlight app) and portable wifi hotspot cannot work at the same time.

I dont see any logical connection between the two, question is can anyone explain the reason this is happening and any workarounds/alternatives

# Answer
Both of those functions consume a large amount of energy. The phone's processor and other components require a minimum amount of energy to remain stable. The battery can only output so much at a time. The phone is not letting you use both simultaneously time to avoid a "brown-out" and potential crash or other failure (perhaps it is unsafe for the battery as well, overheating is dangerous). Many phones also restrict the use of the flash when battery power is very low.

If you use a third party flashlight app, you *may* be able to bypass the restriction. I know I can, however my phone is also rooted which makes everything easier.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for my HTC One E9 cannot function unless I install a flash light app. I don't know how they are related,but have read several articles advising users to install the app as solution to faulty Wi-Fi.it works
> 0 votes

---
Tags: wifi-hotspot, camera-flash
---


# Question
Title: Sony Xperia z: Hard reset with hardware buttons
My phone's touchscreen does not work so I want to hard reset my phone to see if it helps but there is a problem, How? I can't go to my phone's setting because

1. Touchscreen does not work
2. My device is locked and requires password (I have password but I can't enter it)

# Answer
> 0 votes
RESET

1. While the device is on, press and hold the Power and Volume Up keys.
2. Wait for the screen to shut off and the device to vibrate once (about 3 seconds).
3. Release the keys once the screen has shut off.
4. Press the power key to turn the device back on.

Master Reset feature with hardware keys is not yet supported for your phone. It can only be done with touch screen

https://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-6722

---
Tags: sony-xperia-z
---


# Question
Title: Purchased music from Google Play - they are nowhere to be found
I purchased 3 x albums 4 days ago using Play Store. It advised that the purchase was successful and the money was debited from my account - but it never actually said it was downloading anything. These albums are not in my Play Music...and if I go back to Play Store it says that they have been purchased - when I click on the album i get the option to listen. When I press listen it opens up in a web page "google play music" and has the option to Buy or Listen. I press listen - the screen refreshes. Absolutely nothing happens. How do I get these albums into my Play Music?? thank you

# Answer
> 0 votes
They will be in Google's Play Music app. You can listen or download them from that app.

---
Tags: google-play-store, music, google-play-music
---


# Question
Title: Move apps to SD card in Marshmallow without using internal SD Card storage?
In previous Android versions is was possible to move apps to the SD Card. In Marshmallow, I was prompted to choose if I want to use My Micro SD Card as external storage or to extend internal storage. I chose to use it as external storage because I need to use it in My computer without a cable. In Marshmallow, the option to transfer apps to SD Card didn't seen to appear. Someone else I know chose to extend internal storage using the Micro SD Card. On that phone, the option still appears. We both have a Moto G2.

# Answer
Without root and a 3rd party app like Link2SD, it is not possible in Marshmallow because Google removed that capability from Android. If you accept an OTA from Lollipop to Marshmallow, Apps currently on SD will remain there but no additional apps can be moved to the SD card under Marshmallow.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: external-sd, sd-card, 6.0-marshmallow
---


# Question
Title: How do I remove this odd field sometimes appearing when typing?
I have recently started seeing an extra field middle left on the screen on my Android 5.1 Moto G 1st generation:

I cannot tap it. It also appears in other apps, for instance Hangouts. I first thought it was some sort of word suggestion, but it doesn't seem to change much or always appear.

Does anybody know what that is and how to remove it?

Oh, and what does "winsomely" mean..? Thank you.

# Answer
It's not an extra field. It's a malicious app that is causing it. Download.StopBadApp Moble Security from playstore and scan the phone to detect and remove the malicious application.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: 5.1-lollipop, motorola-moto-g, gboard
---


# Question
Title: Rooted Karbonn Smart A26 not powering up after mistakenly deleted one file from boot
I have a Karbonn Smart A26 on Android 4.1.1. After rooting and using it for 3 years, I mistakenly deleted one file from boot. Now it's not powering up.

I gave it to the service centre, and they told me it was a waste and threw it. I still have the ROM and tried flashing it, but it's not responding. The light switches on, it powers up, but won't connect.

Anyone, please tell me how to recover that "bricked" phone.

# Answer
Follow these steps:

1. Download a custom ROM for your mobile model.
2. Android flashing application
3. Download device drivers.
4. Now flash the mobile by connecting a USB cable to your system.
5. Run the application and then you have successfully flashed your mobile.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: root-access, 4.1-jelly-bean, unbricking, karbonn
---


# Question
Title: How to update Galaxy S4 to Lollipop or Latest Android version?
How to update this Galaxy Not rooted S4 GT- I9505 from Android 4.3 to Android 5.0 or 6.0? Currently not getting or not showing any updates either in this device or from Samsung Smart Switch/Samsung Kies.

Additionally, Not showing latest android version in SamMobile website (Firmware for GT-I9505) against the above device specifications. Currently it is still showing Android version as **4.3** `Now how can we update it to Lollipop version?`

# Answer
> 3 votes
You can easily update your Galaxy S4 to Android 5.0.1 Lollipop without root. As you have shared the screenshots, it shows your device is up-to-date but your region might have not received the latest update yet.

But you can check the sammobile firmware page over here.

It clearly shows that Lollipop 5.0.1 has been released for those regions, Now If your region is listed over there or not. You can simply download the firmware and flash it using Odin3. (If you don't know how to update using Odin, I've written a step-by-step guide on my blog).

I hope that the above instructions helps you to update to Android Lollipop. Now You also have said about Android Marshmallow, Now officially it is not available for your phone model and I am pretty sure it won't be in the near future as Samsung does not support their models too long and Galaxy S4 is now quite old.

But doesn't mean you can't have Android Marshmallow on your phone. In order to have it, you need to root your phone and install Custom ROM such CyanogenMod 13.

Let me know if you want to know more in details and I hope you've found my answer useful.

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, samsung-galaxy-s-4, 6.0-marshmallow, 4.3-jelly-bean
---


# Question
Title: How does YouTube offline feature work on Android and iOS devices?
How does the YouTube offline functionality work? What format are the videos saved in?

I know that people can download/convert videos from YouTube site and apps like Tubemate, but is it possible to convert *those offline files* to `.mp4` or any other video files?

If I am a content creator and I am OK with people watching my videos offline but not with people sharing the video file, should I be turning the offline feature on?

# Answer
YouTube has an amazing feature that lets you watch your favorite YouTube videos without an internet connection on your mobile using 'YouTube offline' feature. You have asked how does it work?

Here is answer according to my understanding. First of, The offline feature only works on the YouTube app. Now when you add a video to offline the video is downloaded onto your device, then later you can playback that video as many times as you want in the YouTube app without having active internet connection for up to 48 hours, after that the video becomes inaccessible and becomes available again after you connect the device to the internet.

Please note that not all videos are available to add to offline, as the uploader can decide whether his/her video should be made available offline or not.

**So where is the video file saved?**

Well, I tried every possible way to find the file but the whereever it is stored it can only be accessed by the YouTube app and you can not playback the video on another video player on your device.

Now for YouTube publishers, it might work like this, let's say someone watched your video playing ads offline but YouTube app will refresh view counts once the device is reconnected to the internet so this way no views and ad revenue is wasted and is win win situation for both content creator and users.

So that’s how YouTube's offline feature works hope you've learned something new and found my answer helpful.
> 0 votes

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Tags: youtube
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# Question
Title: Samsung s7 only asks for fingerprint scan not giving option to enter password
My new Samsung S7 was restarted today with an android update from T-Mobile. When it turned on, I unlocked it using a password. After few uses today, the fingerprint scan failed and each time I try again, the lock period increases and does not allow me unlock with password. I do have a password, but it does not give me an option to type it in.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I had this exact same problem on my Galaxy S6 recently. No matter how many attempts I made in different positions, the fingerprint reader decided, as it often does, that it simply wasn't going to accept my fingerprints. Frustrated, I had no option but to continue trying (and failing) to scan my fingers with ever-increasing timeouts because it wasn't giving me the option to type my backup password. With only a few attempts left before it would erase my phone, I remembered that sometimes text to the effect of "Swipe to enter password" appears at the bottom of the lock screen. Even though this text wasn't currently visible, I tried swiping (up from the bottom, if that matters) and a password prompt finally appeared.

TLDR - The problem: finicky fingerprint reader meets poor UI. The solution: swipe on the lock screen.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Well I waited long enough and it finally gave me the password screen.

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Tags: samsung, screen, password
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# Question
Title: What is the name of Android Device Manager Service
When you turn on Android Device Manager in Google Settings, it is possible to locate your phone by going to http://www.google.com/android/devicemanager

I have a very small cellular data allowance on the phone, and I want to ensure that only the android device manager service is using cellular data.

I downloaded the NetGuard app, that allows me to control what can use cellular data at a very detailed level, however, I can't work out which service I need to enable for cellular data to make android device manager operational.

# Answer
> 2 votes
The Android Device manager is by default allowed:

```
<wifi
    blocked="false"
    package="com.google.android.apps.adm" />
<other
    blocked="false"
    package="com.google.android.apps.adm"
    roaming="false" />

```

https://github.com/M66B/NetGuard/blob/master/app/src/main/res/xml/predefined.xml#L19

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Tags: android-device-manager
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