# Question
Title: Is GPS replaced by A-GPS in Android latest version (4.4, 5.0)?
I have created an application that uses GPS for getting current location. I have checked my app in latest version of Android (4.4), and it is not working as it works on previous version. I saw the configuration of 4.4 devices that every device has A-GPS with GLONASS.

I just want to confirm that do we have to get current location using WiFi/Network? Is GPS outdated now?

# Answer
If you go to the location settings on your device you have the options of:

* Off
* High Accuracy
* Power Saving
* GPS Only

Where Off and GPS only are obvious, Power Saving uses Wi-Fi & Mobile networks only and High Accuracy uses both GPS and WiFi/Network information. (I am running 4.4.2 on my Galaxy Note 3).

The reasons for the multiplicity of choices are the balance between accuracy and battery life,

* GPS can give good accuracy anywhere so will work even if you are out of range for all calls or on holiday with roaming turned off,
* Network information depends on the availability of towers &/or WiFi with the geographic information set up but will be either be connecting to towers or querying WiFi both of which have some impact on battery life but not much more than being able to receive calls,
* Both uses the most power but will produce faster, more accurate, more reliable, results than any single method.

So now the user of the device has the choice and if your application relies on one specific method it should query the available information and if it is not enabled prompt the user.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, gps
---


# Question
Title: Impact of removing the launcher from Android device
I have two Samsung rooted devices and I'm thinking of removing the TouchWiz. What would be the implications of leaving the device without a Launcher? If I install a new app that acts as Home/Launcher aplication will it be set automatically as the default Launcher?

Thanks for the answers and comments,

# Answer
> 4 votes
Touchwiz is not just the launcher, it is an entire framework they have built into Android. It controls the notifications, the settings, the whole OS is basically Touchwiz throughout.

Samsung do not provide the stock launcher with the device (Like old HTC devices used to) so if you remove it you will just have no launcher, no way to open apps etc. You could just install Apex, Nova, Google Now or whatever launcher before doing this, and freeze the launcher rather than completely delete it to ensure there is no unexpected outcome(s). Generally it will either default to whatever launcher is installed, or it will give you the 'Choose your launcher' screen where you can accept whatever one you want and click "Once only" or "Always" as you do with other apps.

As Touchwiz is the framework, you would need to remove the whole ROM from the device and install a Non-Touchwiz ROM like AOSP, CyaongenMod, Google Play Edition (if your device has one) and so on.

> **Note:** any changing of frameworks in Android can completely brick your device, so proceed with caution and make backups! You can never have **too** many backups!
>
> **Note 2:** you **could** remove all of Touchwiz and rebuild the ROM, but that would be way outside the remit of this site. It would probably be reinventing the wheel anyway and there are plenty of AOSP ROMs about.

---
Tags: 4.1-jelly-bean, 4.4-kitkat, samsung, launcher, home-button
---


# Question
Title: Titanium Backup: How to restore user apps and data without system apps and data?
Is there a way to restore user and system data separately with Titanium Backup?

I would like to restore only my user apps and data (excluding system apps and data). The only way to achieve this seems to be to select "Restore all apps with data" in the Restore section and manually uncheck all system apps.

This is certainly doable but becomes tedious if you restore your device often. Is there a more convenient option?

# Answer
> 2 votes
If you click on `Click to Edit Filters` in the `Backup \ Restore` tab in Titanium Backup you can select:

Filter by type:

> System
>
> User
>
> Uninstalled

Then you can restore all apps that are only filtered by these (or a combination of them).

---
Tags: restore, titanium-backup
---


# Question
Title: Car Mode suddenly appeared - why? And how do I get rid of it?
About 2 1/2 hrs ago, I plugged in my HTC Evo 4G to its home charger to charge up a bit before leaving the house. It's rooted running CyanogenMod-7.1.0-Supersonic (for at least a month if not more, I can't remember when my husband did this).

Within about 3 minutes, my phone had this really weird user interface I have never seen. It's Car Mode. I couldn't exit out of it, couldn't make my phone respond to me at all. I immediately pulled out the battery & rebooted, thinking maybe it was malware. It booted back into Car Mode, only this time I could click an Exit button.

Researching, I see that this is an UI for car docking. Only I have no car dock, and it was plugged into my home wall charger. I left the house for errands, and no matter what I did - on the phone on a voice call, typing email (at a doctor's office, not driving ;) ), and it kept booting me into Car Mode. On the voice call it automatically put me on speaker.

I did not ask for this program, did not download anything, did not approve anything...

I ran Lookout and no Malware or Spyware is showing. I am very confused.

Anyone have ideas on what this program is, how it all of a sudden appeared on my phone, and how to get it off? I looked up apps in Google Play and the icon in the notifications bar (when I exit Car Mode) is not something that is there. It looks like an app, but it's not in my Apps manager, either, or a running process that I can tell, yet it is showing up intermittently in my notifications, even not plugged in or moving. It's also turning on intermittently. I can't get anything done.

Thanks for any help!

# Answer
It is included with Cyanogenmod and is based on similar modes in other ROMs. It is meant to provide you with what you need, but not so much as to distract you while driving.

I do not know what is launching it, or how it is doing so automatically, but there may be ways to stop it:

## Stop it in it's tracks

If you would like to remove it completely and not use it at all, install Titanium Backup, choose the `Backup and Restore` tab, find and select `Car Home` (I have version 2.2.1.2) and select either `Freeze` or `Uninstall`

**Note:** `Freeze` will stop the app from running at all, but keep it on your phone. `Uninstall` will completely remove it.

**Double note**: if you choose `Uninstall`, you may want to make a `Backup` there with the app first, just in case removing it causes unwanted side-effects.

---

## Other, less intense options

1. In car mode, click the `Right Arrow` and choose `Settings`. From here, make sure that it's not automatically launching when connected to some bluetooth device, and try `Reset to defaults`, just to make sure nothing else is helping it along.
2. From the home screen, go to `Settings -> Applications -> Manage Applications`, choose the `All` tab, and find `Car Home`. Here, click the `Clear data` button.
> 10 votes

# Answer
The most common reason for the car mode to launch is dirt in your charger-connector. The micro-USB gathers all kinds of dirt from your pockets and eventually starts connecting the pins sporadically.

Apply some compressed air and you will be fine. Let the charger have some as well.
> 5 votes

# Answer
I found another Car Home issue related to the USB port. On a non-EVO someone dicovered that their USB port was bent and they violently disabled it.

Since Iplugged and unplugged my EVO 3.1415 million times since I got it, I've played around (gently) with the USB port.

This has reduced the annoying Car Home app starts from all the time to 4-5 times daily.
> 4 votes

# Answer
You can disable car mode in your phone model by going to `Settings > Dock > and uncheck auto-launch`, according to http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110814065550AAW9RZc

Apparently this is a common problem in EVO 4G, see:
> 3 votes

# Answer
It was a hardware issue for me - need to gently bend the charging port so it doesn't touch the upper bracket. More info here:

http://forums.androidcentral.com/verizon-droid-charge/135723-fixed-droid-charge-stuck-desk-car-cradle-mode.html

It's happened to me several times: randomly switches to car mode, desktop mode, shuts off speaker, answers calls only in speakerphone, music won't play through speaker, etc..
> 3 votes

# Answer
How to get out of car mode.

Got this from http://www.droidforums.net/forum/droid-general-discussions/203433-how-get-out-car-mode.html after trying all of the above and nothing had worked. This worked for me.

I see that there are only a few posts about this online but no solutions without using apps. I called Verizon and told them the issues. They actually had to go back to way earlier models to solve this issue. To get out of car dock mode do the following:

* Plug in your phone to your charger.
* Turn off your phone.
* Turn on your phone.
* Place a call. While in call, remove your charging cable from your phone (wiggling it a little did the trick for me).
* End the call.

The steering wheel icon should be gone and your phone should be back to normal.
> 1 votes

# Answer
I know this is old, but I was having this problem with my LG G2 and finally figured out how to get rid of it. Hoping this saves someone else the frustration!

Go into Settings and under the System heading there is an option for Accessory. When you open that, uncheck the "car Home" option that says "automatically start car home when the phone is mounted on car cradle".
> 1 votes

# Answer
I discovered that if you disable the Kies Air program then the care mode will stop working on the Galaxy S2.

Click on settings, then find applications, under running process there is a program called "Kies air" (orange and white in color.) click on the un install updates and then I clicked on disable button.

I have a Samsung galaxy 2 and the "car mode" has stopped popping up every 2 seconds on my phone
> 0 votes

# Answer
Yeah. I jus figured all you had to do was use two of your fingers and swipe them down twice. (-\_-). That car mode got me worried!!! I though I was never gonna get out of it!!!
> 0 votes

# Answer
I had the problem with my HTC One M7 (root, OmniROM) that the car mode appeared after restart although no usb cable/dock was connected.

I had anomalities like screen rotation (although locked), calls starting in speaker-mode, mtp-usb not working (disconnect after 1s).

Tapping "Exit Car Mode" didn't solve the problem. Possibly the "car mode" was not terminated fully. Nothing I read on the forums helped **until I found the solution:**

The App Car Mode \*root\* was able to terminate the car mode task so that I could use my phone normally again.
> 0 votes

# Answer
I was able to fix my Droid DNA by going into Developer Options and checking "USB debugging"
> -2 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, htc-evo
---


# Question
Title: Change a system setting missing from the UI directly?
I have a Lenovo S939 (Android 4.2.2, rooted) and the setting to change the default notification sound is missing. Is there a good app that can be used to browse all system settings and make changes directly (something like regedit in Windows). Or can this setting be changed in the file system by editing a XML file? If so, how can I find it?

# Answer
Got an answer on XDA, tried it, worked: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/help/change-setting-missing-ui-directly-t2927313

Basically they suggested to change the setting in build.props but the phone didnt pick that up. So in the end I overwrote the default audio file with the one I wanted.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: settings, lenovo
---


# Question
Title: Not able to acces other hard disk and partitions on android 4.4.2 X86
I have installed android 4.4.2 X86 android on my PC that has 2 hard disk with 2-2 partitions each. I have installed android 4.4.2 X86 on one of them and i have data on other 3. The problem is that i am not able to access any of my other three partitions. Please hoew can i access my other partitions

# Answer
> 0 votes
You probably need to mount them, which will usually require root privileges. However, as android is installed on a hard drive, you could probably edit the required files on another computer by plugging the hard drive in.

---
Tags: android-x86
---


# Question
Title: How much usable storage space does the 16Gb Nexus 9 have?
How much usable storage space is available on a 16Gb Nexus 9 once the space occupied by the OS, preinstalled software, etc. is subtracted?

Please do not answer with speculation; I am interested in answers with authoritative sources, or from people who have a Nexus 9 and can report directly.

To clarify: I am interested in the space available on a brand new Nexus 9, complete with everything that Google include on it. I remove it from the box, turn it on, and check the available storage. What do I see? :-)

# Answer
For the 16GB version: **11.05GB** Source

Click image for larger version

For the 32GB version: **25.61GB**

Click image for larger version
> 2 votes

---
Tags: rom, nexus-9
---


# Question
Title: Play Music (KitKat): update library not working
I use BitTorrent Sync to transfer audio files to my Nexus 5. All files are transfered to the 'music' directory. When new files are added to this directory, the only way to update Play Music's library is rebooting android. There is an update button in Play Music ("Vernieuwen" in dutch) but this does not add the new files. To be honest I expected Play Music to automatically add the new files.

What can be the cause of this problem? And is there a way to solve it?

Possibly related questions:

# Answer
> 2 votes
One of the advantages of a physical SD card: unmounting and re-mounting it triggers the media scanner. But that's unlikely to be an option for you. 1

Depending on your Android version, there are different apps available on *Google Play* to help you out. The "version difference": starting with Kitkat, the old mechanism of triggering the media scanner does no longer work, "normal apps" are denied the permission to call it. But there's at least one new app available where the dev found a "loop-hole" to give back the functionality.

Some examples for pre-Kitkat scanners can be found in the link of "footnote 1", SD Scanner is the one promising to work with Kitkat.

---

1 see my answer here for a more detailed explanation of the background

# Answer
> 0 votes
## Solution 1: Just play it

If you are an KitKat user that just wants to listen the music, regardless of recognizing it on the best way (like showing ID3 tags, allowing to modify files etc.), just use Es File Explorer. So you can see the folders on SD Card, long press on some folders choose to and play it or to add to playlist, all using embedded music player.

## Solution 2: Play + Modify

Want to modify/delete/add media files? Alles klar: only open Es File Explorer, enter on external storage, go to Android\data, create a folder called "com.estrongs.android.pop" (yeah, you can!), and put all media files in it, using subfolders or not. Shazam!

KitKat does not allow to modify files on external storage when they are outside the folder of the app that is trying to modify them, but not inside.

## Help me :)

If you find better app to play these files, inform me, please :) but it is the only one I know that performs Solution 2 on KitKat.

---
Tags: music-player, 4.4-kitkat, google-play-music, media-scanner
---


# Question
Title: I don't have the right HBOOT version, can I still install Cyangenmod?
I ran `adb reboot bootloader` on my HTC Sensation XE and it states that the version is `1.29.0000`

According to the wiki I must have version **`1.17.0006, .0008, .0011 and .0012, 1.18.0000`**?

# Answer
> 0 votes
No you can't install a CM Rom without having the correct bootloader. You will brick your device or end up bootlooping it.

Download and flash correct HBOOT, then continue with your choice of Rom.

---

as per your wiki link

***`"Pay close attention to the HBOOT revision as newer updates break the tool's ability to work properly"`***

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, bootloader
---


# Question
Title: What is this folder named "d1o1m0o7b1i1le"? Is it a virus?
I found a directory on the SD card of my Nexus 5 called `.d1o1m0o7b1i1le` that definitely wasn't there last week. It contains a directory called `dont_remove`, which contains a bunch more directories with random names, each containing folders `.image`, `.thumb`, and `.video`, all empty.

I haven't installed anything new that I know of, and this directory just feels sketchy, so I'm concerned that it might be a virus, but I haven't been able to find many other references to it on the internet. XDA has nothing, but Google shows two pastebin results   that look like process dumps. I *have* been doing some basic development lately, but I would think there would be more references to it if it were part of Android.

I've just downloaded Avast mobile and scanned everything, but it doesn't seem to have turned up anything other than a few settings.

I'm running the Android L developer preview, rooted, so there's definitely more opportunities for compromise on my device than most.

Anyone know what virus I might have, and if so, how I can get rid of it, or if this is just something normal I should ignore?

# Answer
The folder is created by (at least 1) apps developed by DoMobile Lab. As a hint, when you remove all numbers from the folder name, it spells `/.domobile`.

As a proof, after installing AppLock and running it, there will be `/domobile` and `/.d1o1m0o7b1i1le` folders on the SD Card root folder.

I don't think it is a virus, and it might be really important for DoMobile apps to work properly.
> 12 votes

# Answer
It is a folder that is being created by AppLock after its latest release on 13 Oct 2014. I had this folder on my SD card. I deleted that folder and it came back again. Then, when I deleted AppLock, the folder didn't come back.

I installed AppLock from backup and the folder was still not created. But after updating the app, the folder got created again, so I guess they changed the way their apps worked. So, don't delete it. It's important for the app to work properly.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: malware
---


# Question
Title: How can I pin offline tracks at a lower bitrate with Google Play Music?
I'm using an HTC One S running Android 4.2 (actually Cyanogenmod 10.1).

I recently uploaded my entire music library to Google Play Music, and have started using the Google Music app on my phone.

I'd like to be able to "pin" a bunch of music that I can always have on my phone (I don't have a data plan). The app allows this, but you can't select the bitrate or anything like that.

Is there way to force the app to download the music at a lower bitrate so that I can store more? I'm running out of space too quickly.

I believe it's downloading everything at 320kbps, which is overkill for a mobile device that I use with earbuds. I'd be plenty happy with 128kbps. The app allows some changes to the bitrate when streaming music, but I can't find anything related to music that's pinned on the device.

My phone doesn't have an SD card slot, so I can't just add more storage.

Is there any way of doing this? Failing that, are there any third party clients that could utilize my Google Music library with more customization options for pinning music?

# Answer
> 0 votes
This is **not possible** in Google Play Music. You can only change the bitrate used while streaming your music.

If you are really interested in getting your music at a lower bitrate, you could have a look at the Google Play Music directory in /data/data. There is a directory named files. That contains all mp3-files you have pinned to your device. You *COULD* replace them with files with a lower bitrate, but this is **much work**.

Alternatively you can **upload** your music at **two different bitrates** to Google Music.

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, 4.2-jelly-bean, google-play-music
---


title: WIFI Receive Data in Sleep Mode?

text:
# Question
Title: WIFI Receive Data in Sleep Mode?
How can wifi receive data when it is in sleep mode? Will it wake up regularly, or do something else? I tried to make a ping test to a full power management (sleep just after transmission) phone, and it wouldn't miss any packets. So I'm curious about the receipt progress.

# Answer
> 0 votes
It does not turn off by default, but you can change that option in Settings\>WiFi\>Advanced

---
Tags: wi-fi, sleep
---


# Question
Title: I encrypted my phone (samsung S4) of which i dont remember the password. Need help to unlock it and save the data
I am using Samsung S4. I can't remember the password i setup while encrypting it. Is there a way to unlock the device ?

If it cant be unlocked how do i factory reset the device or i'll have to go to samsung service center for that too.

# Answer
**Master reset with hardware keys**

1. Turn Off the Device
2. Press and Hold the Volume Up, Home, and Power Button
3. When the phone vibrates release the Power Button, but continue to hold the other two
4. When you see the system recovery screen release the other two buttons
5. Using the Volume down, select "Wipe data / Factory reset"
6. Press Power Button to select it
7. When the reset is complete, choose Reboot system now and press power button to reboot the phone.

Disclaimer: THIS WILL ERASE EVERYTHING ON YOUR PHONE. This does not solve the question about how to recover data that is encrypted. It only answers the question about factory resetting the phone.
> 7 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-4, encryption
---


# Question
Title: How frequently are Android apps in Google Play updated?
I wish to know how frequently apps in Google Play are updated on average? For instance, statistics such as **average number of apps updated per day** or **number of days in-between 2 successive updates of an app (on average)** might be useful to deduce this.

An example number that I wish to see is: 0.5% of apps in Google Play are updated every day (or something like this).

> I hypothesize that Android apps, given the easy development and distribution infrastructure, are updated much frequently than the desktop apps.

I wish to have more evidence to support this hypothesis. Please suggest link to any official information (or reliable from tech blogs) that would give insight into such statistics. Thanks.

# Answer
From my observations of ~10,000 apps listed at my real-life categorized app-listings, the average app...

* requests ~7 permissions
* costs USD 0.88
* was last updated ~1.5 years (~17 month or 492 days) ago

The last item, a little more detailed:

```
┌───────────────────────────────────────┬────────┐
| last updated more than 2 years ago    | 24.51% |
| last updated 1..2 years ago           | 20.27% |
| last updated 6..12 month ago          | 17.84% |
| updated within the last 6 month       | 34.87% |
└───────────────────────────────────────┴────────┘

```

As you've correctly pointed out in your comment, that doesn't sum up to 100%. The difference are apps currently not listed in any of the markets I cater for (i.e. *Google Play*, *F-Droid*, *Aptoide*). As unlistings may be (and sometimes have been) temporary, I still keep those for a few month before removing them finally. Plus add a little "rounding blur" ;)

So I'm afraid I just spoiled your theory...

BTW: Though you didn't ask for: Top categories of "max permissions per app on average" is, after "personal assistants" (31.7 perms/app) *cheaper calls* (22.2 perms/app – shame to him who thinks evil of it ;)). Only then come apps to remote-control your device (where many permissions make much sense, considered you want to control as much as possible), and "Antivirus", with ~19 perms/app each.

<sup>(Statistics as per November 5, 2014)</sup>
> 3 votes

---
Tags: applications, google-play-store
---


# Question
Title: Only charges through USB when screen is locked
I have a Moto G running 4.4.4.

When it's connected to a PC, it will only charge if the screen is locked: as soon as it's unlocked it will stop charging. In this situation, even if I lock the screen again it will not go back to charging.

When it's connected to the charger, it charges normally regardless of being unlocked or not.

What can be causing this problem and how to solve it?

# Answer
The most likely cause is that your PC can't supply enough current over the USB connection to charge your phone while it's awake. Smartphones draw a lot of power these days, so their chargers use extensions to the USB standard to supply more power, so they can charge even while the phone is in use. Most PCs don't support these extensions, so they can't.

The solution is to use the charger to charge your phone. You can buy a Y-shaped USB cable which splits the power and data connections, so you can have it plugged into the PC and charger at once if need be. Some docking stations also have this ability.
> 4 votes

# Answer
Another possible cause is that this is done to protect the data on your phone. It can be unsafe to connect your phone's usb when unlocked. (usb condom)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: charging, motorola-moto-g
---


title: Moving downloaded apps on LGMS500

text:
# Question
Title: Moving downloaded apps on LGMS500
I have a LGMS500 and have installed link2sd and advanced sd card manager and am still unable to move all downloaded apps to sd card. Any other solutions?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Not all apps can be moved to the SD card using the native method.

You need to partition the SD card and set both partitions as primary. The one you want to set for apps storage needs to be ext4 formatted and the other FAT32. Remember that partitioning will wipe all data!

Now Link2SD will be able to "Create link" and move the dalvik cache, internal data (pro version), library and application for to SD card.

---
Tags: external-sd
---


# Question
Title: Can I turn off all "Notification" of all apps, services in Android phone?
I found tips to improve battery in this link: http://www.gottabemobile.com/2012/10/30/hurricane-sandy-crisis-map-puts-shelters-storm-info-alerts-power-outages-on-mobile/

In this link - author said we can turn off Notification of android/iOS applications to save battery.

I have an Android phone. If I go to Settings/ Personalization / Manage Notifications (Sony Xperia). I will see all Applications/ Android Services that I can turn off notifications

**My questions is CAN I turn off all application notifications (downloaded / built-in apps) / android service notifications (app services/built-in services)?** If I turn off all of them - Does this affect operation of the phone? I understand that I will not receive any notifications (news/updates ... ) if I turn off notifications. I can check updates manually.

Thank you!

# Answer
Yes, you can turn off all notifications. Your phone will work fine, but you will not receive any notifications, which will severely limit functionality of applications that depend on notifications to alert you of events and progress.

Furthermore, the amount of battery life saved by doing this will be so close to zero, that I honestly can't recommend it.

Disable notifications for annoying apps. Leave them on for others.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: notifications, battery, battery-life, sony-xperia-z
---


# Question
Title: Use 2G instead of 3G on Samsung Galaxy SL I9003
I have a Samsung Galaxy SL I9003 mobile phone. I prefer to use 2G data connection instead of 3G but I am unable to turn off the 3G service in my phone. How can I turn off the 3G service and use 2G instead?

# Answer
> 0 votes
**Head over to the settings\> Under Wireless and Networks\>Tap More Settings\>Mobile Networks\>Network Mode\>Change it to GSM only**. This will keep you over the 2G network, when ever there's a need of 3G network again in future then you can again change it to auto mode.

---
Tags: 3g, mobile-network, 2g, samsung-galaxy-sl
---


# Question
Title: How do I transfer all my contacts from HTC Wildfire to HTC One?
My HTC Wildfire does not have an SD card. I am changing phones and providers, from HTC Wildfire on 3 Network to an HTC One on Vodafone. Please advise how I can transfer my contacts from my 3 Network sim card?

# Answer
I will recommend you this HTC's official app.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.htc.dnatransfer.legacy
> 0 votes

# Answer
Some of the 3 methods,

1. Go to Accounts and Synch and then synch your contacts with your google account.
2. You could export all contacts in the .VCF format.
3. You could take a backup using a third party software such as Super Backup
> 0 votes

---
Tags: contacts, data-transfer
---


# Question
Title: not able to see recovery mode on my Redmi1s after I installed cyanogemod 11
After I installed cyanogenmod 11 on my new redmi 1s using clockworkmod recovery. I found that I am not able to see the recovery screen as the mi boot time logo is hiding the recovery screen.Can any one help me??? I have followed this tutorial.Please help me.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Boot time logo cannot hide the recovery. Try to reinstall recovery from fastboot:

```
fasboot flash recovery clockworkmod_recovery.img

```

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, cyanogenmod, xiaomi
---


# Question
Title: Micromax Canvas A1 is unable to install apps from Google Play Store
I have a **Micromax Canvas A1** device. I can open Play Store and can search the apps. But, when I click `Install`, it just shows (endless) download animation and no actual downloading happens.

An example:

Process is stuck in installation phase and no further progress nor even any notification hapens.

I've tried so far:

1. Clearing Google Play Store data and cache.
2. Doing factory reset of the device.

Still nothing. Anything else, I can try?

# Answer
Backup your phone. Do a hard data reset (note, that this is different from a factory reset):

1. Press `Volume Up` \+ `Volume Down` \+ `Power Button` all at once.
2. Press `Volume Up`.
3. Go to recovery and then select wipe data/factory reset.

If you are facing any troubles, then this link should be helpful for you.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google-play-store, 4.4-kitkat, installation
---


title: Where can I find my Android backup?

text:
# Question
Title: Where can I find my Android backup?
Where can I find my Android backup in my Google account? What is the name of my android backup in my android device?

# Answer
Google does not backup your whole Android device. Only your apps, and, if you have a nexus device (\< not sure), the app's data will be backed up. And if you turned on automatic camera backup in the Google Photos app, your photos are backed up, too

You can't download these backup from your PC or another device. To restore it you have to login on a new/factory reset device. Then it will ask you to restore your apps.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google-backup
---


# Question
Title: Inability to call or text with Samsung Galaxy S3
My Samsung Galaxy S3 has this annoying habit that, whenever I try to do something like connect to a network, or open Candy Crush, after 20 seconds my phone will turn off, and on, and then keep turning off and on, the timing at which it turns off after turning on is variable: sometimes I have the option to enter my PIN, most of the time not.

Up until this point I solved it by plugging it in, and stop attempting to do anything with this phone that I cannot do on my old Nokia. The problem this time, is that my phone has entered a state of isolation: I cannot text, or receive texts, cannot call and the symbol which normally shows how good my connection is to my network has been replaced by a stop sign. How do I get rid of this?

Also, my battery occasionally drains: from full to 0 in under 2 minutes.

Placing my SIM into a different phone allowed me to text and call, so its nothing to do with that.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Take a backup of your phone and do a hard reset.

Steps for a hard Reset

1. Turn the phone off.
2. Press and hold VOLUME UP and Home(center) button Press Power until the phone vibrate Wait until you see the Android logo then release all the buttons
3. Select Wipe data/Factory reset with VOLUME DOWN, press Power (right hand-side) Select YES -- delete all user data with VOLUME DOWN and then press Power After format, press Power again to reboot phone. (select reboot system now)

Source

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3
---


title: Settings shortcut in Android 4.4

text:
# Question
Title: Settings shortcut in Android 4.4
I am using Android 4.4. I would like to have shortcut to multiple Settings features (wifi, display, lock screen,...) on the desktop.

If I long click on a desktop, I do not find a way to place a shortcut. And I remember it was possible in earlier versions of Android.

How can I do this?

# Answer
> 1 votes
You can do this in other launchers easier, but if you go to Widgets in the app drawer there should be one called SETTINGS, once you add this it will give a menu of sub settings options like Battery, WiFi etc.

Finding the 'Widgets' option depends on your device though, Google Now launcher has it when you press the menu button, Samsung Launcher has it in the app drawer, Nova Launcher has the long press function... etc.

Alternatively I strongly recommend Power Toggles from the play store. You can add nearly any shortcut to this, though the odd one (e.g. Locations) requires root. It's a fantastic, flexible option. (I have **no** involvement with this app by the way, but I've used it for ages on all my devices)

Edit: From your comment you are using a Samsung Galaxy S5, which as you say, does not have this option. The only options I can think of are downloading widget(s) for the shortcuts you use, or downloading a new launcher like Nova Launcher that has the functionality you need. Alternatively you could just use the quick shortcuts in the notification settings, though the range of them is quite limited.

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, home-screen-shortcuts
---


# Question
Title: Updating any app is retaining its older version?
I am using android 4.4.2 on my Asus Zenfone 5 (not rooted). It seems that when I am updating any app from play store, it is installing a newer version without removing the older version.

Before updating total space occupied by all apps was around 400MB, after updating all the apps successfully the occupied space for apps increased to 1.1GB. As my internal memory is limited, I am little worried.

Is this behaviour normal? Can I get rid of old versions of those apps? What is the way to avoid such situation in future?

### **Additional question after reading the answer**

* Can the default apps be removed?
* What if one tries to install the same app after removing the default app in `/data`?

# Answer
> 4 votes
From your description, it sounds like the problem might be due to built-in apps. Built-in apps (that come with the phone) don't take up your storage space, because they don't live in the data partition (where your apps and data are stored), but in the system partition. However, they can't be updated in the system partition, because it's read-only. Updating a built-in app is done by installing the new version to the data partition and ignoring the old version. The effect of this is that the whole size of the app occupies the data partition. Subsequent updates don't keep taking up more space: once the app is on the data partition, the package is simply replaced with newer versions in the usual way.

For instance, say the YouTube app is 17 MB. When it comes with the phone, it occupies no space on the data partition. It takes 17 MB in the system partition, but since you can't use that partition for anything else, that doesn't matter. Now you update YouTube from Google Play. The new version takes 17 MB on the data partition, as if it weren't a built-in app at all. The old version is still on the system partition, inactive, but it still makes no difference.

If you were to update a lot of built-in apps at once, then the effect would be much bigger.

This only applies to the app itself (the APK file), not its data and cache, which are always stored on the data partition.

Other than in the case of system apps like this, two versions of the same app (identified by their *package name*) can't coexist on the same device. Installing a newer version always removes the older version.

On a rooted device, or if you install a custom ROM, you can make the system partition writeable and update built-in apps directly on the system partition, so they still won't take up space on the data partition. This is quite a risky business, though: it's easy to accidentally change files you shouldn't change, and lose all your data or make the phone unusable. There's a reason the system partition is normally read-only!

---
Tags: application-autoupdate
---


# Question
Title: Can I fastboot flash a factory image without flashing the recovery?
Factory Images

Using Nexus 9 as an example, the `flash-all.bat` contains:

```
fastboot flash bootloader bootloader-flounder-3.43.0.0114.img
fastboot reboot-bootloader
ping -n 5 127.0.0.1 >nul
fastboot -w update image-volantis-lrx21l.zip

```

`image-volantis-lrx21l.zip` contains `recovery.img` and the other images. Can I remove the `recovery.img` to avoid having to re-flash TWRP?

Do I need to use a different parameter for fastboot? ie. not `update` or `-w`?

# Answer
> 2 votes
According to the CyanogenMod Wiki, you should be able to flash each partition separately – if you've got an image for it. Quoting:

> **Common fastboot commands**
> `fastboot flash recovery recovery.img`
> `fastboot flash boot boot.img`
> `fastboot flash cache cache.img`
> `fastboot flash userdata userdata.img`
> `fastboot flash system system.img`

Following this list come instructions on *Installing recovery using fastboot*, which should apply (with the partition/file names replaced accordingly) be valid for the other partitions. Basically, with activated and your device connected to your computer (which has the appropriate tools installed):

```
# Boot the device into bootloader mode:
adb reboot bootloader

# Make sure fastboot can "see" it:
fastboot devices

# Flash the image:
fastboot flash recovery your_recovery_image.img

```

---
Tags: bootloader, fastboot, bootloader-lock, factory-image
---


# Question
Title: Root in Android is connecting to SoftLayer Technologies!
I was reviewing what programs are connecting to the internet on my Android Nexus 5, and I saw that Root had already disconnected from the connection to SoftLayer Technologies, inc (IP 108.168.176.245 Port 5222 insecurely over http - status: TCP\_Close\_Wait).

Why does Root connect to SoftLayer? Is this normal?

# Answer
> 2 votes
So for anyone who sees **suspicious internet activity** on his phone, here's how I figured it out:

I monitor my phone on random occasions (several times a day) using this amazing app called: SockStat (no conflict of interest).

When I just found this IP yesterday 108.168.176.245, I blocked **everything** on AFWall+ (Android open source firewall), this way, any app that tries to connect remotely will be logged (turn logging on if it's off).

In my case, I saw that WhatsApp+ tried to connect to the same IP that I'm investigating. Looked up the WhatsApp+ IP and yes, it's on SoftLayer network. Waited a bit, and finally captured what caused Root to connect! Same IP but this time, **"(Kernel) - Linux kernel"** is trying to connect to that IP.

From here, I'll email the developer\* and ask how he got Root without requesting Root from Superuser app.

I still haven't figured out what is trying to connect to Baidu (180.76.3.151), but you get the idea from the first suspicious IP.

Hope this helps.

\*WhatsApp+ is a third-party WhatsApp client. Not sure how it works under the hood though.

---
Tags: malware, privacy
---


title: Missing "Google Play"app

text:
# Question
Title: Missing "Google Play"app
My phone (Nokia XL) did not come with Google Play application. How do i install it (i've already tried with some weird .apk files)? If my phone cant use Google Play can you at least tell me if there is some way i can download the apps on my computer and then send them to my phone through USB. Thanks

# Answer
> 1 votes
You can't use Google Play unless your phone has installed the Google Play Services to the /system partition, which is only possible through flashing it. (If you don't have root access).

The .apk of Google Play is only for use with phones installed Google Play Services.

The Play Store is the frontend of the Store, which only shows you information and let you interact with the services. The Play Services are installed at the /system partition (because they need higher privileges to install and uninstall applications). This is the backend of the Play Store (and other Google apps).

Means: If you don't have the Play Services installed, the Play Store can't do anything.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Although Nokia XL is based on the Android Open Source Project with Nokia's interface layered on top, it does not come with Google services due to Nokia's contract with Microsoft. However, there is a solution though it involves rooting your phone. You will void your warranty or even ruin your phone;try at your own risk. If you want to want to risk it, Google is your friend. Here is one example http://androidrootcentral.com/root-and-install-playstore-nokia-xseries/

---
Tags: google-play-store
---


# Question
Title: How do I root a Zte Origin from Solavei?
I got a Zte Origin (solavei service) from vx4gwireless

There's a customer in their affiliate program and she's added all these apps and needs to root her phone (and I need to as well). I do not see a Zte Origin in your list of Androids in the How do I root my Android device? section.

Can you please add this phone and instructions on how to root it?

Its the blue Zte Origin, Model number Zte V768 Android version 2.3.7

And I need to know how to delete apps and move them to SD card after rooting!

Thanking you and that I hope someone can help!

# Answer
> 1 votes
I rooted mine with no trouble. It's been a while but I now have SuperSU and Uninstall on my unit. I don't remember specifically downloading either one they nay have downloaded along with an 'install'. So do dome DD and try downloading these two. I do remember I had to fiddle some on the connection between my PC and the ZTE but eventually the rooting software loaded. I also installed Internet Booster, Ram Booster, SDCard Booster and I believe these are by the same software designer and seem to be flawless. These products working together have dramatically speeded up my ZTE Origin and I rarely get 'out of space' warnings - theyare fantastic and I would HIGHLY recommend them.

After getting all of these installed I was able to move a number of apps to my SD card freeing up a ton of space.

---
Tags: rooting
---


# Question
Title: Installing Plan B on Samsung Galaxy Ace 3
I lost my Samsung Galaxy Ace 3 I have no tracking device installed on it and the WiFi and GPS are off. I can call it and know the number. I've tried to install Plan B but it says it is not compatible. Please help.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Plan B is only available on Android 2.0-2.3.

What you can try is Android Device Manager. It's mostly preinstalled and enabled on more recent versions of android.

---
Tags: lost-phone
---


# Question
Title: nexus S partition scheme, can it be changed?
planning on moving from the Nexus One to the S.

the only thing I don't like about the S is the 512ram and the 1GB for apps.

I tried to search forums, but found nothing relevant about this quesiton:

Is it possible to partition it something like

```
/system 6Gb
/SD 9Gb
/swap 1Gb

```

?

i'm comfortable flashing custom roms, but i never dealt with partitions.

# Answer
I know it's been over a year, but if you still have the Nexus S, I have found a solution. Combined emulated SDcard storage like the Nexus 4. Check the guide here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-s/general/howto-combined-emulated-storage-nexus-s-t2848752

---

in case the above link disappears, the meat of the answer is to use android LVM2 (ligical volume manager). though i'm almost sure you can do it simpler by just changing regular partitions and boot scripts.

https://github.com/steven676/android-lvm-mod

the original link *just* outline all the overly complicated steps required to push a new kernel and a few system images and change partition on android. (which will never be a perfect solution because the android vendors *never* open source all the pieces to compile a perfect kernel for every device...)
> 1 votes

# Answer
Not sure this helps you 100% as I've never done this on the Nexus S but I did it on the HTC Desire, which the manufacturer gave a laughably small area for user installed apps. I follows this tutorial:

http://alpharev.nl/

Basically you're using fastboot to put a new hboot down. I suggest googling for more info about these; whether there's an existing one close enough to your requirements, or if it's easy to create them yourself.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-nexus-s, partitions
---


# Question
Title: Can I configure voice dialer to be usable in hands-free mode?
I use Cyanogenmod 11. It comes with an app called Voice Dialer.

The only problem with it is that you have to click on it to use it, kind of defeating the whole point of it.

Is there a way to have it start when I press the "control" (I don't know how to call that button, it's used to pause music or hang up a call) on my earpiece?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Yeah bro there is an app on Google Play Store that can control your headset button actions, The app will help you customize the options when a button is pressed on your device, so with that app you can go to "all apps" and select the name of the voice dialer program, so next time you click on the heaset button, the mobile does work for u

link for app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tvk.headvol

if u find it helpful u can accept my answer

---
Tags: hands-free
---


title: Tether from PC to android via USB

text:
# Question
Title: Tether from PC to android via USB
Is there a way to tether a PC's ethernet or WiFi connection to a Samsung Galaxy Fame using Jelly Bean 4.1?

What I would like to do is to be able to access the internet on the phone using the PC's internet connection, via USB or wifi. My PC runs Ubuntu and Windows (Dual Boot) so either of these operating systems will work.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You need to reverse tether your pc to your phone.

---
Tags: 4.1-jelly-bean, internet, reverse-tether
---


title: Moto 360 software update hangs

text:
# Question
Title: Moto 360 software update hangs
I have a Moto 360. I get a card saying there's a system update. I open the update and tell it OK to install. I get the red/blue/yellow/green spinning dots and a progress bar. When the progress bar reaches approximately 30%, the dots disappear. The green Android robot appears. He has a hatch in his stomach area, and a red triangular icon with an exclamation point inside of it appears. The watch stays like this until the battery dies (unless I hold the physical button until the watch shuts off). I can then reboot back to normal, but after a few hours (or sometimes minutes) the system update card will appear again and the whole cycle starts over.

What is causing the system update to fail? Are there any debugging steps I can perform?

When I go to Settings, my current software version is 4.4W.1.

I have tried doing factory resets twice and then updating, but the issue persists.

Update-I got in touch with Motorola support. They had me reset the watch and try updating. When that didn't work, they decided to replace my watch. They'll be shipping me a new one.

# Answer
Never had this problem before, and my Moto 360 updated OK. I know it is a pain in the butt, but I would do a factory reset on the watch. The best way to fix problems on these wearables are to reset them - there's no way to debug when they're just Bluetooth.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: android-wear
---


# Question
Title: How much does the build number of an Android OS matter?
I have seen several builds on OS 4.3 and 4.4-- what are the key differences? I tried finding documentation on the exact changes, but couldn't find any.

I set up two new Nexus 7 tablets (2013) and even brand new ones come with different build versions.

# Answer
How much does the build number of an Android OS matter?
As a developer, I have never used it for anything significant (other than maybe analytics). Between the Vendor and Google, it does correlate to a branch/release of the AOSP platform.

Your other question on OS 4.3 vs 4.4 and what are they key differences?
Search "Android 4.4 vs Android 4.3 feature list". It is quite significant. But as a general rule, each release typically comes with new API's for developers, improved security, and improved efficiency.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, 4.3-jelly-bean, stock-android, builds
---


# Question
Title: Unknown apps/processes with number only are shown in data usage
A mysterious app named "10102" shows up in my data usage. It bears only the standard Android app icon (the Bugdroid logo with a cube on its torso). From what the graph tells me, it has used 36 megabytes of data in the background and zero on the foreground.

I think I haven't uninstalled anything for months.

Is it malware? I haven't sideloaded anything and only authorized my laptop as a USB debugger. If it's malware, how do I remove it? I have no idea how to find its package name and 10102 isn't in the list of downloaded apps in settings.

I'm running stock & never-been-rooted Android 4.4.4 on Nexus 4.

# Answer
It's probably an uninstalled app. It happened on my phone a few times.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, data-monitoring
---


title: Upgrade Galaxy Note 3 to KitKat 4.4.4

text:
# Question
Title: Upgrade Galaxy Note 3 to KitKat 4.4.4
I have Galaxy Note 3 phone, and its last updated software is KitKat 4.4.2, but I heard that Samsung made it official to the Note 3 to be updated to 4.4.4. Does anybody have an idea how to get the update?

# Answer
It depends on your exact model. According to this unofficial site that provides information about Galaxy Note 3 updates, KitKat 4.4.4 has been available for specific models for a few weeks, but most models are still on 4.4.2.

Typically, when there's an update available, you should automatically get an OTA update notification that looks like this:

However, there are two ways to manually check for the latest update:

1. **Settings→Software Update**. If your settings are in tab view, it's on the **More** tab, at the bottom. If you don't see it there, tap **About Phone** or **About Device**, and it should be one of the options in there. If an update is available, you should see a notification like the one above.
2. Samsung Kies, a PC application for updating Samsung mobile devices. When Kies detects a connected device, it should automatically inform you of any available updates.
> 0 votes

# Answer
if its actually true then you can go to your settings \>\> About Phone \>\> Software Update and Check for updates, the updates that come here are official and will only show up if samsung actually released another version if you really want to do it on you own (custom rom) then you should visit some guys that have these roms available or u can check forums.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: updates, 4.4-kitkat, samsung-galaxy-note-3
---


# Question
Title: Can you upgrade the RAM of an Android device?
I'm sure many people like me are aware and annoyed by the extremely limited amount of RAM in Nexus S (512MB but only 300+ is usable), I have searched all over google for a solution to increase the amount of RAM available and came up empty (I tried swap file applications but they just broke my system's SD card partitions causing a complete reset).

I wonder if there is any hardware solution to this problem. Is it possible to swap the chip out for a bigger capacity one? I realize that it is not as simple as swapping out PC RAM from a dimm but I haven't seen any schematics for the chip layout on the ARM boards in the smartphones so I really hope that it is somewhat possible to increase the amount of RAM on the board.

# Answer
You can't. Most smart phones are designed as a System-on-Chip; which means that the CPU, RAM, GPU, device controllers, etc are all in a single chip. Updating RAM in such system means replacing a whole lot of other stuffs. Not to mention that you probably would have a hard time finding a chip with different specification which fits perfectly into the hole that was left behind after you dismounted the chip; due to size restrictions, the components around the chip are designed to fit tightly into the available space.
> 25 votes

# Answer
The actual hardware: No. It is System on Chip (SOC) and cannot be upgraded.

However:

You can use **Swap** for this purpose. However, the performace will take a large hit, even on a class 10 SD card.

Swap is, in short, *virtual RAM*. With swap, a small portion of the hard drive is set aside and used like RAM. The computer will attempt to keep as much information as possible in RAM until the RAM is full. At that point, the computer will begin moving inactive blocks of memory (called pages) to the hard disk, freeing up RAM for active processes. If one of the pages on the hard disk needs to be accessed again, it will be moved back into RAM, and a different inactive page in RAM will be moved onto the hard disk ('swapped'). The trade off is disks and SD cards are considerably slower than physical RAM, so when something needs to be swapped, there is a noticeable performance hit.

Unlike traditional swap, Android's Memory Manager kills inactive processes to free up memory. Android signals to the process, then the process will usually write out a small bit of specific information about its state (for example, Google Maps may write out the map view coordinates; Browser might write the URL of the page being viewed) and then the process exits. When you next access that application, it is restarted: the application is loaded from storage, and retrieves the state information that it saved when it last closed. In some applications, this makes it seem as if the application never closed at all. This is not much different from traditional swap, except that Android apps are specially programmed to write out very specific information, making Android's Memory Manager more efficient that swap.

There are also other pitfalls with this method:

You need to turn off swap before you mount SD via USB, if you don't you will not be able to mount sd as swapfile is active and set to read only which will deny request to mount USB Storage.

TL;DR: Yes in theory, in practice it's not good!

As an alternative KitKat has a smaller memory footprint and is supposed to be optimised for 512 RAM devices, look around XDA for a ROM for your device maybe and see if that would help!
> 5 votes

# Answer
No it isn't. At least if you have to ask about it. Replacing any chip would require several thousand dollars worth of equipment and experience. Not to mention obtaining the correct replacement.
> 4 votes

# Answer
An Android device? **Sure.**
Hear me out.

Android is an operating system like any Linux distribution, or Windows.
Android can run on x86 hardware, or ARM boards too. (Well, usually it runs on ARM CPUs.)
You can put Android-x86 on your laptop/desktop. Or a virtual machine. Whatever.

The thing is, that you also mentioned that you want to upgrade a phone hardware.
That's a no go, since they use "SoC"s. (System-on-chip.)
Like a blackbox. Yeah, you can spot the components, disassemble it, but you cannot expand / repair it.

But for the original question... the main question, the answer is: **Yes.**
> 0 votes

# Answer
The answer is 'NO' you cannot upgrade the RAM of a smartphone yourself! Probably you are comparing it to the computer, as we can change the RAM in a computer but you're stuck with the size shipped with your smart phone (:
> 0 votes

# Answer
You definitely can upgrade your RAM on your Android device. (I've done it before). It is, however, a lot of work and very expensive. It isn't as easy to replace as it is on a laptop. You need to be very specific when ordering new parts and for some devices, RAM isn't the only thing you'd need to replace. So of course you can, if the manufacturer does it, obviously so can you. You can do anything, you just need the money, knowledge and sources. But for most people it's just worth buying a new phone. But yes, you can -- I've done it for my Blu Studio 6.0 and a Nexus device.
> 0 votes

# Answer
**This is possible** but not even remotely easy to do by yourself (unless you are experienced repairman or electronics hobbyist). Unfortunately, device manufacturers are interested in quickest possible technical obsolescence of products so it's unlikely that they will agree to install some standard RAM slot so hardware solution to this problem requires soldering.

For example this site explains how to replace RAM chips on a HTC Universal which is Windows Mobile phone but it can be considered Android device too ;)

Basically it is enough replace RAM chips. To find compatible RAM chip you should first find out which chips are inside your device and teardown reports may help with that. Then you can try to find usual computer RAM modules with bigger compatible chips (datasheets about your RAM chip may help with that). If compatible RAM chips are accessible and you have good soldering skills you can replace them using rework station, heat gun, soldering iron or of course you may ask some repairman to do this for you.

If you have any questions about RAM replacement process you can ask them on electronics.stackexchange.com
> -2 votes

# Answer
Use RAM Expander expanding to SD card
> -2 votes

---
Tags: ram
---


# Question
Title: How can I make the SD card work again after deleting necessary folders?
I was cleaning junk in SD card and I accidentally deleted some folders. And my tab is not showing system memory in settings or my ex SD card memory in settings. And I can not download anything on chrome or Google.if I want to download system apps apk in chrome it says you don't have SD card installed. If I transfer with Bluetooth same thing no memory card. I don't know what to do.but I can download some apps in play store. Please help me solve this problem. My tab is miki75 6628 ics2. and it's rooted Please tell me what to do?

# Answer
I think for starters you should back up any important files from the card, and then re-format it, wiping it completely. I'm not sure if it'll work, but it should trigger Android to recreate what it needs to. After that, you can copy any old data back to the card.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 4.0-ice-cream-sandwich
---


# Question
Title: How do I send my own IR signal the with IR blaster?
How do I send my own IR signal with the IR blaster?

I have a projector that came with an IR remote that doesn't have an app already. I want to program my galaxyS4 to control it. I have IR receivers that I can see the signal on via an arduino but I'm lost as to how to get to my phones own IR blaster.

# Answer
This remote is widely accepted as being incredibly up to date, and compatible with hundreds of devices. It is not free, but there is a free version.

Something like this app lets you add codes for various devices.

In terms of programming, this would be off topic here, but since there might be alternatives you can use I've answered this. You could use the Android SDK and write an IR app yourself using the Andrid 4.4 APIs.

> Infrared transmitters
>
> When running on a device that includes an infrared (IR) transmitter, you can now transmit IR signals using the `ConsumerIrManager` APIs. To get an instance of `ConsumerIrManager`, call `getSystemService()` with `CONSUMER_IR_SERVICE` as the argument. You can then query the device's supported IR frequencies with `getCarrierFrequencies()` and transmit signals by passing your desired frequency and signal pattern with transmit().
>
> You should always first check whether a device includes an IR transmitter by calling `hasIrEmitter()`, but if your app is compatible only with devices that do have one, you should include a `<uses-feature>` element in your manifest for `"android.hardware.consumerir" (FEATURE_CONSUMER_IR)`.

(Note: I have zero involvement with any of the apps listed)
> 2 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-4, device-firmware
---


title: Python 3 on Android using TerminalIDE

text:
# Question
Title: Python 3 on Android using TerminalIDE
I want to code Python 3 on my Android device. So I went through Lanky Cyril's blog post on using the Terminal IDE to put all that I needed to do code on an Android terminal. For Python 2.X that is installed on the blog, it works like a charm.

So I installed Python 3 using the same instructions. This is what I get when I try to start Python 3:

```
terminal++:~$ ~/python3
Fatal Python error: Py_Initialize: unable to load the file system codec
LookupError: no codec search functions registered: can't find encoding
Segmentation fault

```

I made sure:

```
export PYTHONHOME=/data/data/com.googlecode.python3forandroid/files/python3
export PYTHONPATH=${PYTHONHOME}/lib/python3.2/lib-dynload

```

I also checked on why python 3 is not loading on StackOverflow.

So the problem could be the python build. Has anyone worked around this?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I worked out the solution by going to the Python-for-Android (Py4A) home and found the script that allows Python3 to run as a "Stand alone" on Android.

There are 3 ways to do this:

* I created the "standalone.sh" script, saved it at "HOME"(`export HOME=/data/data/com.spartacusrex.spartacuside/files`), changed its mode to executable, called it and python appeared.
* I opened the ~/.bashrc and pasted copied in the code:

> ```
>  export EXTERNAL_STORAGE=/mnt/sdcard/com.googlecode.python3forandroid
>  export PY34A=/data/data/com.googlecode.python3forandroid/files/python3
>  export PY4A_EXTRAS=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras
>  PYTHONPATH=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras/python3
>  PYTHONPATH=${PYTHONPATH}:$PY34A/lib/python3.2/lib-dynload
>  export PYTHONPATH
>  export TEMP=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras/python3/tmp
>  export PYTHON_EGG_CACHE=$TEMP
>  export PYTHONHOME=$PY34A
>  export LD_LIBRARY_PATH=$PY34A/lib
>  $PYTHONHOME/bin/python3 "$@"
>
> ```

Note that this means every time you launch Terminal IDE, you will automatically load Python and find yourself at the Python prompt.

* To launch Python the normal way, like shown by Lanky Cyril, paste the following code in the .bashrc:

> ```
> export EXTERNAL_STORAGE=/mnt/sdcard/com.googlecode.python3forandroid
> export PY34A=/data/data/com.googlecode.python3forandroid/files/python3
> export PY4A_EXTRAS=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras
> PYTHONPATH=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras/python3
> PYTHONPATH=${PYTHONPATH}:$PY34A/lib/python3.2/lib-dynload
> export PYTHONPATH
> export TEMP=$EXTERNAL_STORAGE/extras/python3/tmp
> export PYTHON_EGG_CACHE=$TEMP
> export PYTHONHOME=$PY34A
> export LD_LIBRARY_PATH=$PY34A/lib
>
> ```

You will notice that the last line in the second solution has been taken out and put in an executable file "~/python". Here is the code:

```
  #!/system/bin/sh
  /data/data/com.googlecode.python3forandroid/files/python3/bin/python3 "$@"

```

I used the second one so that when I launch Terminal IDE, I get my Python prompt instantly. I installed the third solution so that, should I leave the Python prompt, I have a way to get back in the same terminal session.

---
Tags: python
---


# Question
Title: Enabling Location Reporting disables itself
I'm trying to enable Location Reporting such that I can use it with my Moto 360 for tracking stuff. Whenever I enable Location Reporting in the Google Settings app it immediately turns itself off again.

I looked in the docs and noticed this:

I'm in Spain, and I know "Ok Maps" for offline maps doesn't work here. Could that be it? It's also an Apps account, but I couldn't find any settings to enable or disable this in the admin panel.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I think your issue may actually be the fact you are in Spain. I've come across issues with others in the country, including (as you mentioned) the fact that you cannot download offline maps in Google Maps.

This appears (though it's not fully clear) to be down to licencing / legal issues around the mapping. Even a few metres over the Spanish border and everything works again.

---
Tags: location-services, android-wear
---


title: Truncated text from NFC tag

text:
# Question
Title: Truncated text from NFC tag
The NTAG216 can hold 800+ bytes of information. But when I scan it with my Samsung S4, it will only show 5 lines of text followed by an ellipses (...) which is at most about 270 bytes. I've tried it with 2 other Samsungs and an LG with the same result, so I think it's an Android issue. Even if you only put one character per line, it will only show five lines of text. If I use an app it shows the full content of the tag, so I know all the content is on the tag and the hardware is reading it, Android just chooses to only show 5 lines.

I need the phone (any NFC phone) to show the entire contents of the tag, and I need it to work without using an app. Any suggestions?

# Answer
This is a limitation of the Tags app that is included in Android by default. The Tags app will display at most 5 lines of text for any text-type NDEF record. You can't get around this limit as it is hard-coded into the Tags app. Consequently, you won't get around using a customized app for that purpose.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: nfc
---


# Question
Title: Whatsapp - last time seen online - what does it mean?
I'm using whatsapp and some of my contacts have been seen online AFTER my messages have been delivered..

My question is: If I read something like this:

> \[10:01\] my message is delivered The contact has been seen online at 10:08

Does this mean the contact has read my message/opened whatsapp by himself? Or does it mean that his Android OS has let Whatsapp application

# Answer
Just to bring this current, WhatsApp have updated their What are those check marks next to my messages? page to highlight that there's a new feature to see when a message is actually **read**.

> Check marks will appear next to each message you send. Here is what each one indicates:
>
> message successfully sent.
>
> message successfully delivered to the recipient's phone.
>
> the recipient has read your message.

It's still likely that a message will show as delivered before a user has been "online" to actually read it.
> 3 votes

# Answer
A single green tick mark indicates the Whatsapp servers have got your message. A double green tick mark indicates that the recipient's device has got your message.

However, it doesn't automatically mean that the user has read or seen the message.

The last seen online may merely indicate that the user may have been talking to someone on the contact list or been in the Whatsapp application for any reason like adjusting settings etc.

No guarantee that the user has read your message.

Taken from http://www.whatsapp.com/faq/en/general/20951546
> 8 votes

# Answer
My doubt is whether "last seen" indicates that the user has actively opened the applicaction, or that the application has been running on background connecting to WhatsApp servers? The WhatsApp FAQ now says:

> "Last seen at..." refers to the time the contact left WhatsApp

But googling I found an old WhatsApp FAQ answer for the same question, maybe referred to the old versions:

> "Last seen" simply indicates the state of the device network connection and not if the application is actively in use. For example, on some operating system such as BlackBerry and Android, the phone will connect on it's own if it has a new incoming message even if the phone is not in active use at the moment

I have seen "improvements to "last seen" and "typing..." correctness / timeliness" in the 2.7.4705 version (2012-MAR-05) changelog

I will test it

WhatsApp uses push notifications (the server notifies the device) so seems not neccessary connecting periodically to the server looking for new messages (pull). Another question is if once a notification is received the app connects to the server for new messages downloading. In any case, the question is if WhatsApp takes into account the connections with the app in background for the "last seen" indicator.
> 3 votes

# Answer
`Last time seen` on whatsapp means that the person has contacted someone on their contact list, basically sending a text to someone else.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger
---


# Question
Title: How an app can detect my device's uniqueness?
If I install an app, uninstall it, finally install it again at a later time, how the app can detect if it was installed on this device earlier? What are the device unique id's that it can detect?

1. Android device ID: I changed it with device ID changer (now removed from play store, can't give link).
2. google advertising ID: changed that too
3. didn't login into the app with any accounts earlier used.

What other ways the app an app can use to detect if it was installed earlier on the device. I do give internet access to the app.

No IMEI, I'm using a tablet.

# Answer
> 3 votes
As RossC said, yes it depends upon the developers how they keep the logic to detect the uniqueness. As I am too a dev (Windows App) and my preferred way is to keep the device id's over the cloud. So whenever the device gets internet on, it syncs with our servers for prior installations and it becomes easy for users to use it on multiple devices. Other easy ways are to put some file inside the android system folders like data , usr or wherever.

# Answer
> 2 votes
The app may well leave a folder behind with some data in it. You would have to go and manually remove the folder(s) to ensure all data is removed. If you reinstall the app it will check that folder and know it was installed.

An easy example is The Bard's Tale, the game. You install about 20 Mb of a file from the Play Store and open the game. The game downloads about 3Gb of additional data (HD textures version) onto your internal/external SD. Then you play the game and save it a few times, creating save files on the device. Then you uninstall the game. The 3Gb of Textures AND your save games stay on the int/ext SD. If you reinstall it takes up just where it left off.

It's not so much it recognises your device, it is that it still has the data.

Something like ES File Manager, will advise you that you have uninstalled an application that has left data behind, and ask you to choose if you want to delete it. You will need access to delete System Apps or anything within `/system`

---
Tags: applications, stock-android
---


title: Swap audio channels?

text:
# Question
Title: Swap audio channels?
Is there a way to swap the audio channels coming out of the headphone jack on my tablet? A third-party app would be acceptable.

For some context: My tablet has a pop in the left channel and I need it to pop in the right instead. I'm using the left channel to play background music through a large PA system and the right channel with notes to myself that only I can hear. I separate the left channel out to the PA and then plug them both into a mixer for myself. The PA gets the left (with the pop) and I get both. Since the pop is only in the left, if I could swap the channels, I could just swap my external wiring and voila, only "I" hear the pop, not the PA system.

# Answer
> 1 votes
The pop is most certainly because of a hardware fault, which may or may not be in your tablet. Does it pop with other headphones too? If not, throw away the faulty headphone. If it does, then indeed the tablet is faulty and you should see if you can get it repaired under the warranty.

Anyway, it will not be solved by swapping the audio channels (the pop will stay in the same channel). Also, such an app is very unlikely to exist (as it is very rare for somebody to want to swap audio channels), and even if it would exist, it would need at least root access if not outright recompiling the kernel.

If I were you, I would make a jack extension cable with crossed left and right leads. If you can't, ask a friend who is experienced in soldering. It may also occur that you can swap the channels without soldering; for example if you use a Jack-RCA converter, you can simply swap the white and red plugs.

---
Tags: audio, motorola-xoom
---


# Question
Title: How can I delete a Whatsapp group of which, I am the administrator?
I am the admin of a WhatsApp group. I found that there is another group with same members, so the group I made is of no use. Now, How can I delete it?

# Answer
1. **Remove all participants** other than yourself, first by pressing and holding their name
2. Finally, as Admin, exit yourself from the group by pressing "**Exit Group**" option underneath
3. Now, the delete group option should become visible: press "**Delete Group**"

It's all been explained on WhatsApp FAQ - Group for Android.
> 6 votes

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger
---


# Question
Title: Install Android-x86 in Virtualbox VM, then root it
**Problem**

I want to install Android in a VM to restore a backup using Titanium Backup. For this to work I need Android to be rooted.

**What I tried**

I've tried to install Android-X86 4.3 in a Virtualbox VM. The installation seems to work. I made a 8GB partition disk (sda1), made it bootable, and installed Android in it from an ISO file. This all seems to work. Android starts, I can browse the internet, install apps, etc. Then I want to restart the VM, and guess what?! I go back to the installation screen, like starting up from the ISO live image.

For normal stuff I can make a snapshot, start that up, and do anything. My problem is that I need root permission to restore a Titanium Backup in that VM. And I cannot root this VM because the disk is not writeable. With ALT-F1 I become root, and I can use a script to root Android. But my guess is that I'm still on the ISO and that is not writeable.

**Update - another try with Android 4.2**

As mentioned in the comments, 4.3 would have problems with root access. I tried 4.4, which didn't start at all. Then I tried 4.2, which has the same problem as 4.3 for me. I made a screenshot of what I see when I try to run the rootscript, which is described here.

You can see the errors: **rm failed - Read only filesystem**

How can I fix this?

**My question**

How can I install Android permanently on this VM, so it can reboot and then be rooted?

# Answer
For your reboot problem, it sounds like your boot order is booting off the .iso, i.e., cdrom, before it looks for the disk partition where you installed Android. Shut everything down and disconnect the .iso. You can just delete the CD device under the controller within VirtualBox Settings-\>Storage. You probably shouldn't just change the boot order or you will have trouble reinstalling if you ever need to. However, if you want to change the order, look under Settings-\>System-\>Motherboard.
> 2 votes

# Answer
If You set /system as read-write you don't will have any problems at all. In The Instalation do this :
> 2 votes

---
Tags: rooting, root-access, titanium-backup, vm, virtualbox
---


title: Xperia M2 Ring Volume Drops

text:
# Question
Title: Xperia M2 Ring Volume Drops
On my Sony Xperia M2, running Android 4.4.2,, two or three times a day, the sound volume of the ringtone and notification alert drops to a barely audible level. When this happens, calls can be missed as the ringing may not be heard.

The volume setting does not change, just the volume itself. If the phone is powered off and back on, then the volume is restored to normal. No earphones / headset is connected to the phone at any time, either by pluggin in or by bluetooth.

It is possible that the volume drop occurs because the ringtone is being diverted to the internal, i.e. in-call, speaker.

I am trying to work through all the installed apps to see if I can isolate one which is hijacking the sound but without success. Is there a known issue here? A known faulty app?

# Answer
> 2 votes
I believe I have tracked this to an app.

Three In Touch (version 3.4.5) is a pre-installed VOIP app from the service provider (Three) that uses Wi-Fi to route calls if there is limited signal. After disabling this app the volume drop went away and re-enabling it has brought it back.

This is unfortunate as the app is otherwise very useful.

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, sony-xperia
---


# Question
Title: How do I view a different country's Google Play store?
I would like to look at the Google Play store for a country different than my own, but I've spent an hour trying to figure out how to find or view the stores for any other country and I can't find the option to do so.

For iOS I just use iTunes and it has a country button at the bottom of the page where I can simply choose any country to view, I assumed for Google Play there has to be something similar and I'm just not able to find it.

EDIT: This answer for this isn't found in in this thread (How do I change the Google Play country?), the answer there was simply on how to view only one other country, and required that you make a purchase in that country. There must be another way.

# Answer
One solution I've found was to use anonymous foreign proxies for each country I want to check. It's a pain finding a decent proxy for each separate country, but technically it works.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google-play-store
---


# Question
Title: What does it mean to "link" my contacts?
I just got an android today and I'm entirely lost with how it works. I was looking at my contacts and noticed the "link" option, so I tried it and clicked on another random contact, and nothing happened. What does the linking do exactly?

# Answer
Well, I am sure you must be aware that Android shows your contacts from multiple sorces like Gmail, Facebook etc.

I am sure you probably have the same contacts in multiple sources and LINK is a way of telling Android that these contacts, from the different sources, are same. Once you link the contacts Android will merge the contact details i.e. one contact will be shown with all the details from every source.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: contacts
---


# Question
Title: How much control can I have over my device while not voiding the warranty?
I'm a developer and a Linux user, so naturally, I want to install a Bash prompt on my device. There are several Bash "apps" available in the Google Play store (haven't tested any of them, just searched), so it doesn't seem to be forbidden to do so.

What I'm worrying about is *accidentally* doing anything that will void my warranty. Will I get a big, clear notification warning me *"Note, running the command `su` will immediately void your warranty! Are you sure you wish to continue?"*

# Answer
> 6 votes
That pretty much depends on two things:

1. the area you're living in
2. the manufacturer's fairness/good will

For 1., inside the EU there's a ruling that, put simple, "software changes" such as root won't void your hardware warranty. You might lose "support" concerning software things, but if some hardware component shows problems (e.g. your battery starts acting weird, or your headphone connector fails to work) that will still be under warranty.

For 2., many manufacturers tend to "ignore" the fact your device is rooted – either generally, or because they simply "didn't notice". I just got my rooted device returned with a new image flashed, so root was gone – but no bill, the paper stated something like "repair done under warranty". You can't rely on this, but it often is handled that way.

If, however, a defect is obviously (or likely) caused by your tempering, things may look different. Say you "burned" your CPU by overclocking, a repair under warranty might be refused – for good reasons ;)

---
Tags: rooting, bash, warranty
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to selectively limit background data usage?
I have a sufficient data-plan so I've never worried about this... tomorrow though, I'm travelling abroad. Due to this, I will have restricted 3g usage.

Are there any apps or Android settings to prevent certain applications from syncing in the background while allowing others to work unrestricted? For example, if I only want to use WhatsApp or check emails, without "Android OS" or Facebook playing around online, would this be possible?

If I could have this as a "roaming only" profile/mode would be an advantage. If I could also allow these applications to run as normal when WiFi is available, that would be a bonus!

My device is not rooted and I would prefer not to root it to achieve this. Are there any apps or solutions to achieve this?

# Answer
> 6 votes
If your device is running at least Android 4.0, you can use Androids native data management:

Data Usage configuration on Android 4.0+ (source: Droid-Life.com, click image to enlarge)

Here you can setup an overall data volume (a requirement for the second step -- but one can set that rather high, like 4 GB): tick the *Set mobile data limit* checkbox, and play with the bars.

That done, select the apps to block (tap their entries you can see in the second screenshot at the bottom), and set their limit to 0 (scroll to the end of the app's page, and activate the checkbox labeled "restrict background data"). A popup will inform you that the app might stop when there's no WiFi available, as it will no longer be able to use background data on the mobile network -- plus that there might be additional controls inside the app itself.

Now these apps no longer can "silently eat your dataplan", but only when you actively trigger actions. You find described screens in the system settings, mobile data (the one with the pie-chart symbol -- see above screenshot).

**P.S.:** If the above is not applyable for you (Android \<4.0, or a WiFi-only device with Android 4.3+), please also see my answer here.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You could try using this app: Mobiwol: NoRoot Firewall

---
Tags: data-connection, background-data
---


title: Trying to discern if a Moto G is fake

text:
# Question
Title: Trying to discern if a Moto G is fake
A Moto G arrived today from China and I'm not sure if it's real or not, the icons on the box don't have particularly smooth edges (which would be the case if it were a scan)

Could someone take a screenshot of their "About phone" (in settings) particularly the kernel version and the Android version, this phone has some weird one.

Do the power/volume buttons on the side feel very sharp?

Is the viewing angle of the screen really poor and the pixels quite large?

I will post some pictures

Here's the edge

# Answer
> 2 votes
This is the About screen of my Moto G. As far as I can tell the buttons don't feel sharp.

As proposes in a comment, you can try CPU-Z and it will show the phone's information (CPU, model, etc...).

---
Tags: motorola-moto-g
---


# Question
Title: Google Glass LED won't turn on when power button pushed
My Google Glass won't turn on when I press the power button. The LED doesn't even light up when pressed. I charge it and the light stays on, solid, and not pulsating, so it is charged, but it just won't turn on. The LED nor the screen do anything when I press any buttons. Any ideas as to what the problem is?

# Answer
There are a few possibilities about what the problem might be, ranging from the hardware locking up to a more fundamental failure.

You might want to start by doing a hard boot. Hold the power button down for at least 15 seconds, then release it. Then press the button again to try and turn it on.

If this doesn't work, you best bet is to contact a Glass Guide to have them troubleshoot further and possibly do an exchange. See https://support.google.com/glass/answer/3079854 for contact options.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: google-glass
---


# Question
Title: Micro USB MHL To HDMI Adapter HDTV - not working on my Galaxy S5
I have bought a `Micro USB MHL To HDMI Adapter HDTV Cable For Samsung Galaxy S3 i9300 Note2 N7100` from eBay, and just assumed backward compability (yes I know...)

So know I have this thing, and a Galaxy S5, and it's not working. On my sisters LG G3 it's also not working.

Anything I can do beside giving it away to the next person who has a S3?

# Answer
The short answer is you're stuck. I own the same cable for my S3, and, in researching it, I found that you must buy the exact cable for the specific phone you're using it with. Samsung changed the pin configuration for the S3 (see here), so, you've got an incompatibility issue.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-5, mhl, lg-g3
---


# Question
Title: What could be the cause of not receiving push notifications through 3g (gsm)?
When I'm on wifi I get push notifications normally. But if I go on 3g/4g only, I can use the net normally but I am getting no push notifications.

This is the same for several applications that get push notifications, so it's not an application's fault.

I was reading and there seems to be a single appplication in android that passes the push notifications? I was wondering if maybe that application had background traffic blocked by accident or what other reasons there may be.

If not, what other reason may be causing this?

I have mobile data enabled. Other internet stuff works fine. My android is: 4.4.2

(this is a recent thing, I dunno what may have changed, but imagine a small child messed with my cellphone, it's possible)

# Answer
I have found this. A while ago I went overseas and got paranoid and turned a bunch of the background data off in the data usage page. Had a play with it tonight and discovered "Google play services" was restricting. Turned it off and tested it, it seems to work. If you haven't already, try that.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: push-notifications
---


# Question
Title: Why can't I install this downloaded APK?
I downloaded an APK and when I try to install it, the "install" button is completely unresponsive.

I have gone into the settings and enabled "Unknown sources" in the security section.

Is there something else I need to do?

I'm using a Galaxy S5 with Kitkat 4.4.2, unrooted.

# Answer
> 57 votes
Disable your screen dimming app. :)

Some screen dimming apps work by overlaying the whole screen with a translucent window, and letting touch events pass through to the activity below, but for security reasons, you can't interact with system dialogs (such as the package installer) through another activity.

It sounds counter-intuitive, but it could be the cause. It's more likely than a corrupt APK file or a version incompatibility, either of which would cause an error message.

# Answer
> 3 votes
Try to install it using `adb`. Download the Andorid SDK and then connect your phone to the PC via USB, make sure the USB Debugging option is ON under Developer Option in your phone settings.

Once you are done try to use these commands. `adb devices` to check the connection to your device and then if everything is OK try `adb install <filename>.apk`. Make sure you input the correct path to the file or simply copy the apk into `adb` directory.

`adb` usually resids into `adt-bundle-$version/sdk/platform-tools`

You can command prompt `cmd` in Windows or console in \*nix based system.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Disable Verify Apps in Security. If that didn't help, you could just **copy** the **apk** file to **/data/app/** and reboot the phone (as a temporary solution), also try Wiping the Dalvik Cache.

# Answer
> 0 votes
if you received a warning,then Google can and does block apps that can be damaging,and or have malicious code in them. Google can even remove apps after installing as well. Find and read their policy on installing apks from other sources.

---
Tags: apk
---


# Question
Title: color os to cyannongenmod on one plus phone
I just bought the one plus phone. It comes with Color OS which is mostly in chinese and I want to convert it to Cyanongenmod.

There are several guides on the web: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H60fcm0ujqA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDKOEtN9pbo for example.

BUT, each time I try to install the file from sd I get "installation failure" message without any further explanation.

Can anyone help me with installing this OS?

# Answer
I don't have a OnePlus One, so take this answer with a grain of salt.

Make sure you are installing the .zip and NOT the .img factory image file from Color OS's recovery mode.

If that doesn't work, you might want to try one of the nightly builds to see if it works instead.

If you STILL do not have success, you may want to try installing with fastboot instead of the .zip-- note that this will require the .img factory image file, not the .zip file. The steps for fastboot mode on the OnePlus One are: 1. Turn the phone off. 2. Hold volume up + power until the "fastboot" screen appears.

You can read more about using fastboot at the cyanogenmod wiki: wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Fastboot

To ensure a smooth boot after you flash the new system, don't forget to do a "factory reset" to erase all the previous personal data when switching OSes... that is an option that should be available somewhere in the recovery mode. Good luck!
> 1 votes

# Answer
As far as I know you can't use the default recovery, you need to flash twrp or cwm. When you did that you should be able to flash Cyanogenmod the normal way. Be sure to install the .zip and not the .img as @fattire already said. Always delete the data and cache in the recovery before flashing.
> 0 votes

# Answer
owner of a OPO here. I had the same problem. What I did to solve this was to flash an older version of the CM build then updating to the newest from there. I think they changed some stuff between two of their releases which makes it impossible to flash the brand new CM over ColorOS. I flashed 25R then 33R to convert mine.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, oneplus-one, oppo-coloros
---


# Question
Title: Apps continue to use battery despite closing them
I have noticed that certain apps continue to show up in the `Settings-->Battery` menu (which shows the % of battery used by each app) long after closing them.

Here are the list of things I have tried but nothing has removed the apps from the `Settings-->Battery` menu
\- cleared the RAM using Active Applications widget
\- Force stopped the app
\- Restarted the phone

Some of the apps stay longer and some are gone automatically after a certain period.

My question is
1. why do the apps continue to show up in the `Settings-->Battery` menu when they are closed properly?
2. Is this something the apps can control like for how long they can stay awake despite closing?

Its a Samsung phone running on Android 4.1.2.

# Answer
> 2 votes
The `Settings > Battery` menu is a cumulative history that gets reset only when you re-charge the battery to 100%. That means all of the usage history is retained through the charge cycle (which includes any partial re-charges). The closed apps' prior battery usage (as a percentage of the total charge used since a full re-charge) should gradually decline as the total charge used increases.

# Answer
> 1 votes
The `Settings-->Battery` menu doesn't show how much battery is being used at that moment, rather how much has been used (usually since the device was fully charged or turned on). The reason the apps show up is because before they were closed they used some battery.

---
Tags: applications, 4.1-jelly-bean, battery
---


# Question
Title: Send file via NFC from Galaxy S2 Plus and Sony vaio with Ubuntu OS
I have a problem with sharing files between my *Galaxy S2* phone and a *Sony Vaio* model SVF1521DCXW with NFC support1. I am using Ubuntu 14.04 Desktop version and I don't have any idea how can I use NFC to send a single photo to my PC. When I enable NFC on my phone and put it on the NFC sign on my laptop nothing happens.

I also enabled NFC on my Ubuntu machine, and I see my NFC is ON in Ubuntu. As it is usually done between Android devices, I've held my S2 back-to-back on the Vaio while running Ubuntu and Win8. I hear a sound on my Win8 and it opens a url on chrome browser – but I get nothing to transfer.

---

**1:** To be clear: *both* devices have NFC support, see the specs at GSMArena for the S2 and at Sony for the Vaio.

# Answer
You can try Airdroid as it available even for Ubuntu OS. It is one of the easiest way to transfer from PC to mobile or vice versa.

Go to Google Store and look for Airdroid and have it in your mobile. On browser type - http://web.airdroid.com Put in your user name and pass -\> Boom you will have complete control of your mobile from your system.

If you like to know Airdroid's feature then you can check this out - Airdroid Features
> -4 votes

---
Tags: linux, file-transfer, nfc
---


title: Oneplus One import from G Drive

text:
# Question
Title: Oneplus One import from G Drive
I had an HTC one M8, used to backup everything to G Drive. I will receive my new Oneplus One tomorrow, and was wondering if I will be able to download my stuff back.

Thanks for all the help!

# Answer
It shouldn't be any problem. You can simply download the G Drive app on the Oneplus One and download whatever you backed up.

The G-Drive is accessible on many different platforms so it shouldn't be any problem.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, google-drive, oneplus-one
---


title: QB_OFFMODE_ALARM unexpected components

text:
# Question
Title: QB_OFFMODE_ALARM unexpected components
OTA Update Failure - HTC ONE M8 (tmobile) Updating from 4.4.2 to 4.4.3

Update gets about 25% during install and then fails. If I switch to recovery I can see the error which states:

*"Unexpected Components in QB\_OFFMODE\_ALARM"*

I spoke to HTC support and they had me try wiping cache, manual updating, etc.. all with the same result.

Any ideas?

ALso I have rooted my phone and attempted to load using sideload and other methods with no luck.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can't apply an OTA update to a rooted phone. You need to download a complete stock ROM and flash it from your PC.

---
Tags: installation, htc, ota-update, htc-one-m8
---


title: Birthdays and wedding anniversary dates

text:
# Question
Title: Birthdays and wedding anniversary dates
I would like to know how to insert birthdays and wedding anniversary dates into contacts in my Android phone book.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Contrary to what another answer implies, you can't add any field you want when you tap the `Add another field` button in the stock contact editor. You can only add from a pre-defined list of fields. Unfortunately, the stock contact viewer and editor don't support custom fields.

The good news is that you *can* add birthdays and anniversaries, though it's not immediately obvious how, because they're not independent fields, they're *categories* of the **Events** field.

In the `Add another field` box, check `Events` and tap `OK`. You'll then have an **Events** field that works much like the **Phone**, **Email**, and **Address** fields: you can add multiple entries (by tapping the green plus sign), and for each one you can select the category from the adjacent drop-down list.

More good news is that you can add custom *categories* for events, just as you can for addresses and phone numbers: select **Custom** from the drop-down list, and enter your custom category. In this case you won't need to do that, though, because **Birthday** and **Anniversary** happen to be the two pre-defined event categories.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can create custom fields using the Gmail Contacts app in the browser.

From there, you can specify custom labels and values. Note, however, that these are not visible in the standard Android contacts viewer (People), even though they are synced to the Android phone.

For more details, see the SoftWyer blog post.

# Answer
> -1 votes
Open your contact. Select "Edit" from the options menu. There you will see several fields for that specific contact. If you don't saw the birthday field there the there will a button in the end saying "And another field". Click that button and add whatever field you want.

By the way if your phonebook is synced with your google+ account. Then google has already fetched all the information of contacts including birthdays. You can see that in your google calender app.

---
Tags: contacts, 4.4-kitkat
---


# Question
Title: Clock in Notification Area Does Not Update
I have a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 with Android 4.2.2 that is behaving strangely. The clock on the notification bar refuses to update while I'm using the tablet or even while it's sleeping. The only times it updates is when you go into date/time settings and change the time or when the tablet goes to sleep and wakes up again. Another symptom is that none of the apps have updated in about two months.

I thought this clock (which is located in the notification bar (right next to the battery indicator and the wi-fi signal indicator) is part of the Android O/S. It seems strange that the clock would just stop updating. Any advice you could give (short of resetting the whole device) would be greatly appreciated.

# Answer
> 2 votes
The solution was simple. I just needed to restart the tablet. It hadn't been restarted in months and I guess that somehow the updating system process got in a weird state. After doing a reboot (restart) via a hard power off, the clock started working and updates are downloading as normal. I hope my solution here helps someone else.

---
Tags: clock
---