# Question
Title: Can I lock the Nexus 4/7 bootloader after flashing a non-stock ROM?
I know that doing a `fastboot oem unlock` will both unlock the bootloader and wipe the data on the device. Unfortunately, while this allows me to install a non-stock ROM like Cyanogenmod, my understanding is that it also allows anyone w/ physical access to the device to flash or boot a different (potentially malicious) kernel among other things.

Is it possible to then do a `fastboot oem lock` and still be able to load the non-stock ROM? If this is possible, what sort of warnings might appear, if any, during the boot process? And finally, would doing another `fastboot oem unlock` still wipe the data?

I understand that also flashing a recovery like CWM OR TWRP would allow flashing malicious images even ifthe bootloader is locked. Please assume that only the default recovery would be used.

Additionally, is doing something like this to secure a non-stock ROM posdible on any non-nexus devices?

# Answer
> 8 votes
Yes. Locking the bootloader is possible after you have installed a custom firmware.

A locked bootloader will not allow you to ad-hoc boot custom binaries (using *fastboot boot boot.img* and will not allow you to directly write to the flash chips. An unlocked bootloader however does offer you this and newly available commands are:

* fastboot flash *partition* image
* fastboot boot kernel-image

So, if it's locked you will only be able to either boot the normal or the recovery system which themselves need to enforce the chain of trust and ensure security. Current custom recovery images won't enforce any security, so you will have to install a safe stock recovery after you have installed your custom firmware.

Regarding the stock recovery, this will *not* allow you to install any upcoming custom builds, only stock firmware (that's digitally signed by Google) will install.

So, to have a working chain of trust with no holes in it, you will need to first unlock the bootloader, then install a custom recovery, install a custom firmware (etc.), then re-install the stock recovery (extract it from Google's stock image), then re-lock the bootloader.

The procedure to upgrade to newer firmware builds will be a bit tricky at the moment:

I think there exist user-land tools to unlock the bootloader from a regular (rooted) custom firmware (like CyanogenMod) without the penalty of a full wipe. This way you can unlock the bootloader without a wipe, then (temporarily) boot a custom recovery (via *fastboot boot cwm-recovery.img*), do an *adb sideload update.zip* and finally relock the bootloader using *fastboot oem lock* again.

One note: I think I have read somewhere that the Nexus 4 doesn't to a full wipe with subsequent unlocks after it has been unlocked/relocked once. I'm not sure about this, you will need to test this once.

---
Tags: security, nexus-4, bootloader, fastboot
---


# Question
Title: Google Maps Location History is showing an incorrect location
I have a major problem that I hope someone can help with. On my Google Maps feature under my Location History it shows a location that I was never at at any point, but when my wife happened to see that location she doesn't believe me that the GPS could be wrong and pinpoint that location if I was never there.

I was first wondering myself how could that could be possible if I was never there or my phone was never at that location that was 35 miles away from me and second is there any way I could prove the GPS being wrong? Can I contact Google Maps and can they give an official printout of that certain day and every location I was? I really need to prove my honesty to her and hope there is a way.

# Answer
From Google's Location Source and Accuracy page:

> **Data sources**
>
> The following location data sources may be used to derive location:
>
> * **GPS**: GPS accuracy can be up to several meters depending on your GPS signal and connection. Your phone must support GPS, have it enabled, and allow Google Maps access to it.
> * **WiFi**: WiFi (wireless network) accuracy should be similar to the access range of a typical WiFi router, or about 200m or better. Your phone must support WiFi and have it enabled.
> * **Cell ID**: Cell ID (cell tower) accuracy depends on cell tower density and available data in Google's cell ID (cell tower) location database. Accuracy may be approximated at distances up to several thousand meters. Note: Some devices do not support cell ID location.
>
> ...
>
> **Note**: When Latitude is running in the background, it will default to cell ID (cell tower) location on most phones to preserve your battery life.

So if you didn't have Google Maps open for any reason at the time of the erroneous location, it will have defaulted to it's least accurate location finding service, that depending on the density of cell towers in that area (generally more dense in urban areas, less dense out in the countryside) could be out by several kilometers.

If you visit the Location History page in your Google account on a PC, at https://maps.google.com/locationhistory/b/0 then it should show a similar map and listing of places as you see on your phone, but you can also click each recorded location to see how (in)accurate it was. When you click the blue dot for a location, Google draws a blue circle around it that shows approximately the (in)accuracy of that location fix.

The picture above shows an inaccurate fix that covers 3 villages, and a number of roads (I was actually on a train at the far southern edge of that blue circle).

As long the problem location fix has a large blue circle around it, and you can account for being somewhere in that blue circle then you should be ok.
> 18 votes

# Answer
That's most likely not a GPS position, but rather a WiFi hotspot. Google's location service makes use of different identifiers:

* GPS
* WiFi hotspots
* Cell towers

While GPS should be quite accurate (bad conditions might give lower accuracy, but usually shouldn't place you too far off), and cell towers usually are not moving -- WiFi hotspots may exactly do that. I will give you an example situation to understand:

Say, Google's "StreetView cars" passed my house/flat in NYC 2 years ago, while my homy WiFi hotspot was turned on. So they recorded my hotspot's SSID, and connected it with the current GPS location. 6 month later, someone passing by my NYC home with "network location" turned on, gets a fine (and relatively accurate) position from that: location service asked Google's database about my hotspot's SSID, and got the coordinates back.

Fine, so far -- but a year ago I decided to move to San Diego. I completed that 6 month ago, and set up my WiFi hotspot again. Now you pass by my house, your device detects my SSID, asks Google for that hotspot's location... and suddenly you are in NYC, as Google did not update its database yet!

That's how it mostly happens -- and that's how I traveled hundreds of miles in a few seconds a couple of times (my ears still ringing from that acceleration, as I also traveled back a few seconds later)...

To prove you're unlikely having been there, check your other stored locations and check their timestamps. Try to find some with a timestamp close to the wrong location. Once it turned out you must have traveled light-speed to make those data becoming true, the error should become obvious.
> 10 votes

# Answer
If you click on the dots, you will get the time it recorded you there. If it is 35 miles away, and it is within minutes of the previous location, then it would be impossible for you to be there in less than 1/2 hour. I also agree with the others about the Wi-Fi. I was traveling in Michigan this week, and there is one point in Las Vegas that shows up just 10 minutes after the previous position in Michigan. Someone's internet connection was being sent out to the network from Vegas.
> 5 votes

# Answer
GPS uses best estimate statistical methods to guess at the location, and sometimes the calculation goes wild due rounding errors, lousy code in the GPS chip, etc. etc.
> 3 votes

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Tags: google-maps, google-location-history
---


title: removing account with 2 emails

text:
# Question
Title: removing account with 2 emails
my primary email address in my google account was not gmail. I used this google account in my android device for a while. Then, I started using Gmail and it became my primary address (my former email address is still in the account, but its not anymore the primary email in it anymore). I want to remove my former email address from the account & sync, but it says: "Removing this account will delete all of its messages, contacts, and other data from the phone!".

will my personal messaging and contacts be deleted? or it means they will just be deleted from the cloud? after all, its the same google account with different emails (the primary and my former). what will happen to the apps? are they going to be deleted too?

hope I was clear enough...

Thank you!

# Answer
The first account you enter when you set up your phone can not be removed without resetting the whole phone.

If you do this you won't lose any cloud data but all locally installed apps and their data, eg. not your emails (cloud data) but for example sent/received SMSes (and all other locally stored data).
> 0 votes

---
Tags: sync, google-account
---


# Question
Title: My Samsung Galaxy Ace disconnects from Wi-Fi when sleeping even after setting the Wi-Fi sleep policy
I asked this question and found that normally setting the Wi-Fi sleep policy to Never would prevent my device from disconnecting from Wi-Fi when the screen is off, but it's not working. Even after setting this it still ends up disconnected. How can I get it to work properly?

# Answer
> 4 votes
I found this somewhere -- and it works for me.

Here is the solution that worked perfectly with me: the problem lies in the DHCP settings of the ADSL router.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO SOLVE THIS PROBLEM.......

1. Login to your router and go to DHCP settings (for belkin its 192.168.2.1) and find the item called *leasing time*. The default values of the *leasing time* is usually *Forever* -- and there is a bug with Android
2. All you have to do is to change the value of the *Leasing time* from *forever* to any other long value (depends on the routers options). Here I changed the value from *forever* to *2 weeks* -- and since then I didn't have a single WIFI disconnect.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Checkout the Wi-Fi sleep policy under

Settings-\>wireless and network-\>wi-fi settings now press menu-\> Advanced

# Answer
> 1 votes
As a workaround, try installing Wi-Fi Keep Alive. It can do things like keeping a Wi-Fi lock, pinging the router every ten seconds or just keeping the device awake.
Remember that some of the options of the app can be detrimental to battery life. (But if you want Wi-Fi to be always on, I doubt you care much about battery life.)

# Answer
> 0 votes
Go to the main screen--\>Tap on applications symbol--\>Go to Settings--\>Then Wireless & Networks. Then now go to the WiFi and then move on advanced settings (shown as a symbol below the screen not on the screen but to will popup AFTER PRESSING THE LEFT Button)).you will find easily how to control it during sleep

---
Tags: wi-fi, connection-issues, samsung-galaxy-ace
---


# Question
Title: How to adjust S Pen pressure sensitivity on a Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1?
A little background on me: I'm a professional cartoonist and have been working digital for about 20 years. I've had numerous Wacom devices & currently enjoy a Cintiq 21UX (older model). I also have the ASUS EP121 Slate. I think I understand Wacoms pretty well and generally don't panic about computer stuff.

The Samsung Note 10.1 S Pen is using Wacom's *penabled* tech. Same kind of hardware in the ASUS EP 121.

With every Wacom device I've used to date, either Mac or Windows, there is a control panel dialogue box that allows you to tweak the pressure settings of the pen so that the artist/user has the best control for them. The S Pen does not have this and I want it! :)

I have called Wacom. They said they provided the hardware but do not provide support for it. I called Samsung who said it was an Android operating system issue. Before I begin another round of waiting on hold hoping for Android support I thought I'd try here.

Any assistance or at least firm Android tech suppport numbers I could call would be much appreciated. I realize the Note 10.1 is brand new tech and a proper driver solution may be a few updates away but I am willing to be a squeaky wheel and/or early adopter to help this happen :)

# Answer
> 0 votes
Only chinese tablet Eben T6 or T7 provide a better solution of Wacom S pen, Samsung has no development of Wacom pen pressure tuning at all and make it no much different from a capasitive pen

---
Tags: settings, stylus, peripherals, samsung-galaxy-note-10.1, s-pen
---


title: How to get more screen lock options?

text:
# Question
Title: How to get more screen lock options?
In my Nexus 4, I have the following screen lock options.

```
None
Slide
Face Unlock
Pattern
PIN
Password

```

How can I get options other than these for my lock screen? I prefer non-rooted ways to get this done.

(The option I prefer is what I have in my Jailbroken iPod Touch - AndroidLock XT that allows me to use an unlock pattern with the nine points to create the pattern, invisible. But I don't mind any other interesting options available for a screen lock on android)

# Answer
1. To get a lock screen similar to the one available for Windows Phone, try Lock Screen 7.
2. WidgetLocker Lockscreen is a paid app which promises to give more lock screen options.
3. Quick Launch Social Lockscreen is another option.
4. Then there's Active lockscreen.
5. Holo Locker Plus and its free version.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: lock-screens, nexus-4
---


# Question
Title: Can't find low battery threshold setting (Samsung Galaxy S3)
When the phone's battery reaches ~20%, I get the message to connect my charger on the lock screen. Is there a way to lower the threshold for the notification -- similar to the setting for a laptop?

For clarity, I want to change the settings so that the "Connect your charger" message appears when my battery is at 5%, instead of its current threshold, ~20%.

I should mention that I'm looking for a setting that's on the phone, without the need to modify back-end files. Also, I've actually gone through the whole settings section looking for the option and didn't find anything. Hopefully, I didn't overlook it.

# Answer
There is no setting available in any Android ROM that has the battery threshold setting.

From the previous answer given, it is built in.

Only course of option is to roll your own Android build, with the hard-coded value adjusted, but, and is a big but indeed, it is not the recommended route to take, as the code behind Android to handle the battery mechanism varies from chip-set to chip-set and to each and their own manufacturer.

By adjusting it, there could be invariable damage to the battery as a result, since the threshold is specified, by "tweaking" it could affect the battery in the long run and possibly end up shortening the battery life also.
> 5 votes

# Answer
I have a Galaxy S3 and changing the battery threshold had me stumped for a good while as I did manage to change it when I first got the phone.

Here's the answer to how to change the battery threshold on the Galaxy S3:

1. You do not need an app.
2. Simply wait until your GS3 gives you the low battery warning.
3. On your phone's homepage at the top, pull down the notification bar and tap once on the red low battery notification. This will take you to a power saving option page that has the battery threshold options.

**Note:** If you access the power saving options from the settings screen, you DO NOT get the battery threshold option??

I really hope this helps all those like me that just could not find out how to do this.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: battery, samsung-galaxy-s-3
---


# Question
Title: My phone displays: "Notification has been set" at each boot
I am in doubt. My Galaxy SII phone began recently to display a standard pop-up notification box with the text "Notification has been set" at each boot. I uninstalled the software that I suspected was displaying this popup, there were no notifications in notification area left, but this popup has kept appearing on the screen.

How to track which software is displaying this popup?

Android 4.0.4

# Answer
> 2 votes
Found it. I messed around with `adb logcat`, `adb shell dumpsys` and Titanium Backup's Freeze feature. I have succesfully narrowed it down (on my device) to an App called "Pullups 2.04" by "NorthPark" from the Play Store.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-2, notifications, popup
---


title: My screen lock problem

text:
# Question
Title: My screen lock problem
Respected sir, With due respect & humble submission I like to inform you that my Samsung Galaxy Ace Duos S6802 phone is lock due to many time drawing wrong screen pattern.

So, sir I request to you please solve my problem as early as possible

# Answer
**Solution 1 (if you have your Google Account)**

* Keep Drawing the pattern number of times
* Then at one time it will recognize that you forgot your pattern
* Then it will ask for your E Mail ID and password
* Type them then you can log in

**Solution 2 (If you forget your Google Account)**

* Power Off
* Press Volume Up + Home Key + Power Button
* It will start in recovery mode
* Select Factory Reset option using Power key.

Hope it works.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 2.3-gingerbread, locked-out
---


# Question
Title: Cannot install or move Android Apps to SD Card - is it a flaw from the Android or from the phone manufacturer?
From my understanding, while the Galaxy S4 does offer a memory card slot, it's worth mentioning that you can't install apps on the memory card and can only use it for storing movies, music, pictures, etc.

So, is this a problem with the Android 4 OS not capable of allowing phone user to install or move apps to the SD card?

or

is it that the phone manufacturer are not capable of producing a phone that allow user to use the SD card slot given that the limited space for a 16 GB Samsung Galaxy S4?

# Answer
Android supports moving apps to the SD card since version 2.2 (only for apps which allow it); however, this feature can be disabled when building the ROM. Apparently Samsung decided that about 9 GB of user-accessible internal memory should be enough for apps, and disabled the “move to SD” function in their stock ROMs for the 16 GB Galaxy S4 model.

However, there are recent news that Samsung heard complaints of 16 GB Galaxy S4 users and enabled the “move to SD” function in a software update.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: sd-card
---


# Question
Title: Tasker: event works, state enter/exit not - Fixed by reinstall
FIXED! I reinstalled Tasker (also deleting remaining Tasker folder) and now it works as it should. Not a clue why it didn't work at first.

I made a little program in tasker. Two tasks: activate stamina mode, activate normal mode. The first is activated when the screen is turned of, the other when it's turned back on. For this I used the events "Display off" and "Display on".

Now I tried the 'Display state' state and set it to "off". Then added the 'activate stamina mode' task to its 'enter'. Also added 'activate normal mode' to the exit. Though for some reason this doesn't work.

So my question is, why?

Note: Using Cyanogenmod 10.1 on Xperia Z. Tasker version v4.0u1

Edit: I know it doesn't work because I added a notification & buzz to the task, these don't get fired. I also tried to add an exit and enter to the running of an app, and this DOES work. Very weird :s

Thanks!

# Answer
Even though I still don't know what was wrong, I did manage to fix it. A reinstall solved the problem, but only if I also deleted the 'Tasker' folder on the sd.

Note: You can export your configuration, and everything will work without any extra work after the reinstall. (menu-\>data-\>backup/restore)

Note 2: When using the state stuff, there's no need for an 'active normal mode' task. It'll revert everything back again.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: tasker
---


# Question
Title: Is there a way to change sound profiles based on GPS position?
I thought heard about an app that could change sound profiles based on GPS position, but I forgot which one it was. Is there any way to do this?

# Answer
> 4 votes
The free app android llama can do this.

Best of all it is not required to use the energy-expensive gps-receiver but can do the same also with "wlan-ids-in-reach" and "cell-phone-masts-in-reach" as alternative.

# Answer
> 2 votes
You can try apps like tasker and localefor this. They are paid app though.

# Answer
> 1 votes
You can try my app HomeProfile, too. It changes your sound profile when your device connects with a specific WiFi or when it is disconnected from it.

---
Tags: gps, profiles
---


# Question
Title: Is there any version of gtalk supporting multiple accounts which works with 2.3/cm7
Gtalk 1.3 doesn't support multiple accounts: it just connects with the main one, with no apparent way to switch it.

Upgrading to hangouts technically works, but it doesn't even bother to display user online status, so I'd rather have a real chat app.

Do I have any other option, running on 2.3.7 / cm 7.2.0?

If it isn't an official gtalk version, I'd appreciate if at least it was as good, integrated and non-bloated as it is, such as: • integrated with address book • downloads whole conversation (as opposite of just displaying new messages) • plain and simple

# Answer
Did you ever tried IM+ I still think hangouts is better, but since you don't like it may by you could give IM+ a chance. Now it will not download all your previous chats that you had on talk, but after you are logged in it should display all messages that you send, recive, even if you are not directly sending them from your phone.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 2.3-gingerbread, cyanogenmod, chat, xmpp, google-talk
---


# Question
Title: Why does the number of apps "optimized" not reflect removed apps?
I've read the details on what optimizing does here: What kind of app optimizations do newer Android versions do at the first reboot?

And my question is slightly followup.

I run CM nightlies on my TF700T using TWRP to flash and erase the Dalvik cache each time. I understand the Optimizing process rebuilds the Dalvik cache, but it appears it tries to rebuild the cache using every single app I've ever installed, not just the ones currently installed. The total number of apps it optimizes never goes down, always up.

I presume this means there is a list somewhere in the system with all the apps this process must go through. Is there an app or utility that can update this list and justify it against a list of apps actually installed?

Or am I making incorrect assumptions and is this process also running through system apps that are not subject to user removal?

# Answer
> 0 votes
When Android optimizes apps it will optimize all apps, including system apps that you cannot see/remove (well, technically you can, but that's a different question).

If you just check the installed apps on your phone it will just show you the apps that YOU have manually installed and that is why the number is not the same.

---
Tags: applications, cyanogenmod, updates, dalvik
---


# Question
Title: How to restore internal flash storage after reformatting?
I have an HOTT MD500 MID. Previously, when I plugged this into my computer, `Thunar` found two storage spaces, the first being the microSD card, the second, another storage space inside the device. Recently, I wanted to reinstall the device, so I first used `gparted` to reformat both of these storage spaces to `FAT32` filesystems, then used the factory reset option on the device.

During the reformatting with `gparted`, and error appeared preventing me from reformatting the internal storage. Now, when I plug the device into my computer, Thunar no longer can see the internal storage space. Also, when I go to `Settings` --\> `SD card & MID storage`, “Internal Flash Storage” reports “Available Space 0”, while the “MID system storage” reports “Available Space 79 MB”.

I found some similar threads at Is internal storage formatting harmful?, which did not work for me, and Missing internal flash memory and SD card does not mount, which provides instructions specific to another model, but which I do not know how to adapt these instructions to my model of MID. Using the factory reset option in my device did not seem to help.

* Why is the internal storage no longer visible in `Thunar`? How can I restore it to its original state?
* Is that normal that “Internal Flash Storage” is reported as “0”? Will this give me any problems?

# Answer
**Why is the internal storage no longer visible in Thunar? How can I restore it to its original state?**

> I do not know how to adapt these instructions to my model of MID

First of all you need to get `adb` working (Android Debug Bridge if you want to learn more). Specific information regarding this is available at ADB for Android Developers (ARCHOS Internet Tablet) as linked in the answer you provided.

When you have `adb` ready, you should be able to run `adb shell`. This will give you the ability to give commands to `adb` and we can start accessing the device. I'm quoting the answer you linked here:

> If the connection is OK, it will start a server and after e few seconds show the '$' prompt. this means you are connected to the tablet and have direct access to the linux shell. If you type 'ls' you will see a list of folders that contain the operating system and all supporting files that make your tablet work. Now navigate to the folder containing the Flash file system by typing:

```
cd ./dev/block/vold

```

> If you now type 'ls' again you should see three or four folders that have numbered names. One of them is '31:8'. This is the folder that points to the internal flash. Now we can fix our problem by recreating the MS-DOS (FAT32) file system on this partition. Type the following:

```
mkdosfs -F 32 /dev/block/vold/31:8/

```

> This will fix the FAT32 filesystem. Now leave the shell by typing 'exit', disconnect the USB and restart your tablet. On my system this made internal storage re-appear, and after that it also mounted the sd-card. Problem solved.

Please follow these steps and report if it works or not, please supply any error messages and I'll try to help you further to the best of my abilities.

**Is that normal that “Internal Flash Storage” is reported as “0”? Will this give me any problems?**

This is likely just due to the fact that the internal storage isn't detected by the device. It doesn't necessarily mean that it's broken or lost forever.

I'd also like to add as a final point that **messing with the partitions on the internal storage is usually a very bad idea**. Don't do it unless you know exactly what you're doing and why. You should always assume that messing with partitions can lead to data loss.
> 6 votes

# Answer
The problem is likely that the internal SD card to FAT32. While this may not stop Android from working it does screw up many file system related commands/programs, permissions, etc.

Android usually uses ext3, ext4, or yaffs2 for the internal SD card. The manufacturer may be able to tell you which is the one they use. You can also try formatting the internal card to ext3 and doing a factory reset; if it already successfully installed to FAT32, it shouldn't have any problems with an EXT file format.

If in fact the manufacturer does use FAT32 for the file system (which would be very odd), it's possible that it uses a different cluster size than how you formatted it (ie 4, 8, 16 or 32 kb), and the file utility is relying on that information to determine sizes and it is incorrect - producing a nonsensical output of 0. Many manufacturers also encode information into the boot sectors, etc. that you may have inadvertently wiped.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Just press `Power` \+ `Vol +` then tap **Wipe Data** and press **Yes**. Hope this helps.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, factory-reset
---


# Question
Title: Do manufacturers write the drivers for their new Android runned devices?
You notice Samsung Galaxy S4 is different than MetroPCS Z500.

Does the manufactuer update the drivers depending on the hardware their Android OS is tweaked. For, I.e., different support drivers. This question doesn't concern policy, but the software Android runs on different running platforms with different hardware.

For example extra hardware must be mapped diferently to access, so new Linix drivers must be written right?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Short answer: yes.

In fact, it's a little more complicated than that. The device manufacturer or *OEM* buys different components (chips and sensors) from other manufacturers. Some of those components (such as the *SoC* or *chipset*) in turn contain hardware designed by other companies. For example, an LG phone might contain a SoC manufactured by Qualcomm, which in turn contains a GPU designed by ARM.

Just like how the hardware contains components from different vendors, so does the software. In the example, when ARM licenses (sells) the GPU design to Qualcomm, they also supply the source code for a *reference driver* for the GPU design. (They'd include source for whatever platforms Qualcomm is interested in, including Android.) Qualcomm would adjust all the parameters of the driver (such as the *memory map*, which you mentioned) for their SoC, and put it together with drivers for all the other components of the SoC.

Then, when LG buys the SoC from Qualcomm, Qualcomm would supply this combined driver to LG. LG puts this together with the drivers for other parts of the phone (such as the touch screen), adds their UI customizations, and builds a ROM image that they can flash onto the phone during manufacture.

There's sometimes an extra step, too: the carrier might change the ROM to include more pre-installed apps, a different boot animation, or other customizations.

So, although in general each component manufacturer or designer is responsible for the driver for their own components, that driver is changed further down the line.

# Answer
> 1 votes
That's what usually delays an Android update being rolled out to the end user's device: Even if the AOSP (Android Open Source Project) announced a new Android version being available two months ago, it's still only available to Nexus users (their drivers etc. are included with AOSP) -- while OEMs first need to adjust their drivers, and test how that goes along with the new Android version. For some devices, they might even decide it's not worth it, and not adjusting the new version.

The same applies once more to vendors/carriers shipping branded devices: they first need to wait for the manufacturers to finish their adjustments, and only then can start adjusting the branding (and testing their adjustments again). Another delay. But now you might uderstand why some carriers proudly announce a 4.0.x update to some devices, while 4.2 is long available and even 4.3 already knocking at the door.

---
Tags: usb-drivers
---


# Question
Title: How enable monetary parental control for Google Play ?
The last Google Play update removed the PIN option.

The new solution is email login. My kids know, and should know, their email logins,
so that is not protecting me from Google Play purchases.

How to enable monetary parental control for Google Play ?

I'm only interested in monetary protection
(content protection is another topic).

# Answer
The easiest solution is to not have a credit card linked to their account. Even if you did still have a PIN for protection, they could still use the card online with any place that takes google wallet. The PIN (and now password) really only protects purchases from the device itself.

There are a few options that come to mind for them to have paid apps:

# Second Google Account

One option is to add your Google account to their phone, and use it for all the purchased apps. When they want to buy an app, they switch over to your account, and then you put in your password to buy it. The downside of this method is that they could easily change the sync settings so they get your contacts, email, etc.

# Temporary Second Google Account

Alternatively, you could temporarily add your google account, make the purchase, then remove the account. The purchased app will remain on the device and should work, and they won't have access to sync data. But the app won't get any updates, and you'll have to do the same process any time they want another app.

# Third Google Account

Or you could create a third google account that only is used for purchased apps, and not for emails or contacts. They would still need your password to buy the app, and you wouldn't have to worry about them activating sync for your information. And since the account would remain on their phone, their paid apps could be updated as well.

# Prepaid/Gift Card

Another option is to put a prepaid card, or a Google Play Gift Card (min $10), on their account. They can purchase up to the limit of the card, either for paid apps or in-app purchases.

# Alternative App Stores

You could also try using a different app store, such as Amazon's app store. It has most of the apps that Google Play Store has. It doesn't have PIN/password protection for paid apps (but it does have that option for in-app purchases), but Amazon gift cards can be bought in denominations as low as 15 cents. You could just buy the specific amount to cover the app they want, then gift it to them so they can buy the app.
> 6 votes

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Tags: google-play-store
---


title: How to run built-in Sound Recorder?

text:
# Question
Title: How to run built-in Sound Recorder?
If you go to `Settings -> Apps -> All`, you'll be able to find the "Sound Recorder" built-in application in JB 4.2.2, but it's not shown on the app drawer.

Curious, how to run it?!

PS: it's not a question about choosing recording application, but about curiosity of running the built-in one

# Answer
> 3 votes
I suspect the `Sound recorder` could be just a component that is used by several apps, such as `Google Now` and `Voice Search`. If you take a look at the list of apps, there are also others that can't be run directly, such as `MusicFX`, `NFC Service`, `Search Applications Provider` etc., most of which take exactly the same amount of space, 12.00KB.

Note that this is just an assumption, I have no further proof.

# Answer
> 8 votes
This app has no inbuilt GUI link on many builds. You can use the app Sound Recorder Shortcut by KN Inc to access it through a shortcut though. The app needs no permission. The recordings are saved on the SD card in path `/sdcard/`. The files names are `recording*.3gpp`. The recording was just ok though with some amount of background noise.

# Answer
> 3 votes
I managed to record with the help of built in app. Go to `Messaging app->Attach->Record Audio`.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Here's how to run it:

1. Open your app list.
2. Go to *Voice Recorder*.
3. Open it and record.

# Answer
> 2 votes
There must be an .apk floating around somewhere. My CyanogenMod 4.2.2 has an app in the drawer named "sound recorder".

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


title: Call log always shows '13' missed calls

text:
# Question
Title: Call log always shows '13' missed calls
I am using Samsung Galaxy S III. My call log always shows '13' missed calls. I tried with restarting the phone etc., But no change. Is there any way to fix the issue without resetting the phone?

# Answer
> 2 votes
1. Go to **Settings** \> **Application Manager** \> **All applications** (in the tabs across the top).
2. Check in Downloaded, Running and All
3. Locate and tap the **BadgeProvider** app.
4. Tap `Clear data` to reset the counter.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I had the same problem and this is how I fixed it:

I went to the phone icon and then went to logs, then clicked on "view by miss call" in the top. I deleted all the missed calls by putting a check mark on each on. That fixed my issue and the missed calls on my phone icon got removed.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3, call-history
---


# Question
Title: Must I install Google Apps again after installing a new ROM?
When I install a new ROM (`cm-10.1-20130213-NIGHTLY-mako.zip`) using ROM Manager, I have the option of adding another ZIP during the same reboot -- this is probably meant for the Google Apps (`gapps-jb-20121212-signed.zip`).

What if I don't add that Apps zip? What will I miss?

Whenever there's a new build that I would want to install, should I always also add this ZIP? Or can I skip it because I already added it last time?

# Answer
> 10 votes
If you don't install the Google Apps package the first time, you won't have access to anything that relies on Google's services framework. This means things like:

* Google Play
* Google Talk
* Google Maps
* The Gmail application

...etc, won't function on your device because they will lack the libraries needed to run.

You do not need to re-install the Google Apps package every time you update CyanogenMod. It will essentially back up your current ones and then re-install them during the flashing process. Simply flash the updated ROM however you normally would.

# Answer
> 10 votes
There's only 2 times you'll want/need to install gapps:

1. On the initial install of CyanogenMod ROM (or pretty much any custom ROM that doesn't have gapps integrated). Since CM nightlies are the ROM only you only need to install it once, Every subsequent install of a nightly only overwrites the ROM contents and doesn't touch gapps.
2. When you know there's an updated gapps package. The gapps package itself is updated from time to time and you'll usually want the most recent version installed.

To be clear, all official CyanogenMod ROMs are the ROM ONLY with all Google apps stripped out (hence having to install gapps seperately). This was due to a cease and desist order from Google to Cyanogen back in 2009 to remove Google apps from its ROMs...CM ROMs have been sans gapps since.

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Tags: cyanogenmod, custom-roms, rom-flashing, rom-manager
---


# Question
Title: Can I delete a file called 'UPDATE' in the dload folder, or will this delete the operating system?
I recently received low space warnings on my Huawei Honor so I connected my phone to the Mac and observed the files:

As you can see, perhaps 75% is taken up by a file called 'UPDATE' in the dload folder. Can I delete this? Is this an install file or is it the operating system?!

Obviously I could answer my own question by deleting it but I don't want to delete the operating system.

# Answer
> 0 votes
This shouldn't delete the OS. Looks to just be a small update file.

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Tags: updates, file-system, huawei-u8860
---


# Question
Title: How to Use Camera in ICS to store images on internal memory?
The SD card slot on my HTC Dezire Z is broken and a replacement is not available. How can I use my camera without an SD Card? I am using ICS.

# Answer
You need a device with both internal and external memory. If your device have two different mounting points, then you have internal memory. One is for your (now damaged) SD slot, and the other is for the internal memory. Folder names shoul be /mnt/sdcard and /mnt/extsd (actual names may vary depending on the device).

You have two options:

1. Change the default storage for your pics. On Android 4.0, open your camera app, click on the "options" icon, there are 3 options, exposure / balance / settings, the first setting is "local storage", turn it on
2. Use a new camera app with options on where to save the photos you take. I love **camera360** because of its amazing filters, and you can shoose where to save the photos
> 1 votes

# Answer
Another potential solution is to go external... There was recently a successful social funding campaign for MicroSD card readers that connect to the microUSB port of Android phones. http://www.meenova.com/
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 4.0-ice-cream-sandwich, camera, hardware
---


# Question
Title: /sd-ext gets suddenly remounted read only during work
I have an HTC Desire with cyanogenmod 7.2 (with pdroid patch) and with an partitioned microSD card (first: FAT, second: ext3).

The second partition gets automatically mounted read/writeable as `/sd-ext` as it should be. I'm using S2E to store my apps and the app data on this ext3 partition. The `mount` command shows me that the ext3 partition is not only mounted to `/sd-ext` but also to `/data/app` and `/data/data`. All of them are mounted read/writeable.

My first question: Is it normal and secure that multiple directories are bound to the same partition? Are there no conflicts?

In the beginning everything worked fine. I could install and use my apps without problems. But after a while more and more apps begun to crash and I always had to restart my phone to get rid of those crashes again. I discovered that the crashes where caused by a read only data partition. In fact all the directories `/sd-ext`, `/data/data`, and `/data/apps` where suddenly mounted read only.

My second question: Why does Android sometimes remount my ext3 partition in read only mode while I work with my phone?

# Answer
I finally managed to get rid of the filesystem corruptions. I configured S2E so that it mounts the ext3 partition only to `/sd-ext` and `/data/apps`. Since then the partition is not remounted read only anymore. So it seems that the simultaneous write access to the different mount points of the ext3 partition (`/data/apps` and `/data/data`) caused the filesystem corruptions.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Remounting as read-only is an action taken by Linux-based operating systems (including Android) in case of errors accessing the filesystem. In this case it probably indicates that your micro-SD has been (partially) corrupted. There are several possible causes of corruption like this:

* Using the phone as a USB mass storage device and unplugging it while a write is in progress
* The phone rebooting while an app or the OS is writing to the filesystem
* A bug in the ext3 driver in the ROM you're using
* A physical error on the SD card due to excessive heat or cold, mechanical shock, manufacturing defects, strong magnetic fields, &c.

Whatever the root cause, try plugging your card into a card reader on a PC and checking it for filesystem errors (for example, using `fsck` on a GNU/Linux box).
> 1 votes

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Tags: external-sd, app2sd, mount, s2e
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# Question
Title: How can I quickly remove all of my data from my device and then get it back again?
Soon, I'll have to give my phone (a non-rooted LG Nexus 4) to another person for some time. As the phone contains very sensitive information, I do not want this person to be able to access any of it. Unfortunately, I don't have data encryption turned on, so I can't just turn the device off and be sure that the other person won't be able to decrypt it.

Basically, I want to wipe my phone right now and then restore it to *exactly* the state it was before the wipe.

Therefore, I was thinking of backing up my device completely, wiping it and then restoring the backup. How can I do this? Will `adb backup -all -shared -apk` be sufficient? I guess not, since I'm afraid there are some settings that adb won't detect. Is there a lower-level way, like making an image of all the phone's memory with fastboot/recovery or something?

# Answer
You would need to root your phone and install a custom recovery in order to make a nandroid backup of your entire system. There are YouTube videos on how to do this. Please remember that there are risks in rooting and in flashing recoveries.
> 1 votes

# Answer
If you don't want to root (as given in the other answers by @johnF and @Izzy) you can try an application called Helium which can backup your apps and app data.

A factory reset will remove all the data on your device... just make sure you check the backup to see that everything was indeed backed up before you do it.
> 1 votes

# Answer
As JohnF already states in his answer, a backup would be the first step. Basically, this creates an image of all partitions on your device (read more in its tag-wiki). But this doesn't cover the SDCard(s), which you would need to copy -- at least the internal, the external you could simply remove.

Now you've got your data backed up. But you still need to wipe your device. A factory-reset won't be enough for this, as it a) still leaves traces which can be carved, and b) might not even touch the SDCard. So for that, you might want to take a look at apps like Nuke My Phone, which safely *wipe* all data (i.e. not only delete the files, but overwrite everything with "garbage data"), so there's nothing left to recover.

Oh well, *you* can recover: Simply restore the Nandroid backup you initially created, copy back the data to your internal SDCard, and insert the external SDCard. Et voila, you're done :)
> 0 votes

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Tags: settings, security, backup, encryption
---


title: Regarding file association in ICS

text:
# Question
Title: Regarding file association in ICS
I have a Micromax Supercanvas 2 phone.

I installed ES File Explorer from Play Store. I was browsing through various directories and files. When trying to open server logs, events, and other similar files, I was asked to open the file from a list of applications (e.g HTML viewer, ES file viewer, etc.) I selected Android HTML Viewer (as default). No file content is shown. Instead, an error is shown that file does not exist on path.

I tried going through all android apps and removing the cache and defaults. It did not remove the association. It still opens files in HTML Viewer.

Is there any way to remove the association, so that I can select which app to use to open the file?

Thanks in advance for any help.

# Answer
> 1 votes
From my experience, I think ES's default app associations are separate from the operating system's. To clear ES's file associations (assuming you are using the latest version), from ES File explorer go to *Settings \> Cleanup setting \> Clear defaults*.

The next time you try to open a file ES File explorer should now ask which application you want to open the file with.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You might want to take a look at the Default App Manager. From the app's description:

> Default App Manager is a simple yet very functional app to manage (set defaults, clear/reset defaults) default applications for different types of actions that Android does. Unlike other applications that allow you to manage defaults for only one-two types of categories, this app allows to you to manage for almost all the common actions.

The description sounds quite promising. But not having tried the app myself, I cannot give any guarantee it will solve your special issue ;)

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Tags: 4.0-ice-cream-sandwich, default-applications, file-management
---


# Question
Title: My device is grayed out on Google Play website
Recently I had some trouble with google play app - first, I was getting "connection error" when using wifi. I cleared the app chache, uninstalled updates and after I played with it a bit more, it completely stopped woking giving me the "connection error" also on 3G.

I erased my device and installed CyanogenMod 10.1.

Now the Google Play app woks great but when I go to Google Play website, my device seems to be out of sync - it is grayed out and the list of apps installed is out of date.

How to fix this? Any ideas?

# Answer
Try installing Titanium Backup and use its "Manage Android ID" function to update your device ID and "Market Doctor" to relink apps to the market
> 1 votes

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Tags: google-play-store
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# Question
Title: Change Default Save To Directory For Content Downloaded From Apps
I've been looking all over and could only find information on changing the directory for the camera or for changing from the internal storage to an external SD card.

What I am trying to figure out is how to consolidate my downloads, specifically all of my images, into one nice folder. For example, anything downloaded from Chrome is saved to the folder "Download" while everything I save from Reddit is Fun is saved to "Pictures." This drives me nuts when I am trying to send somebody one of these pictures and my Gallery is very cluttered. It would be great if there were an app and/or procedure that allowed me to specify which folder the content from each app should be downloaded into.

I am on a rooted SGH-T889, 3.0.36 Perseus Kernel, running stock 4.1.2.

# Answer
For reddit is fun, you can set it to "Use external browser" in Settings, it should open Chrome and files will be saved in the same location. Takes a little bit longer to open links though.

For Chrome, there seems to be no way to change download location but creating a symlink. This may require root, and your picture directories will still be displayed separately in your Gallery.
> 2 votes

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Tags: settings, downloading, file-management
---


# Question
Title: How can I update the Linux kernel of my Android device?
I am using Sony Xperia E Dual with the kernel that identifies as `3.0.8-perf administrator@ubuntu-scm01 #1` and now I want to update it to the latest and the best one.

Please help me understand it can be done.

According to my findings the website https://www.kernel.org/ offers the latest kernels. Are these kernels for smartphones? And does anyone have an idea of from where to get the latest kernel? How do I replace the existing one?

# Answer
> 8 votes
The kernel on your device is tied heavily to the version of the Android operating system you're running. Sony releases your phone with the "stock ROM" (think a "stock" car in stock car racing; no customization, just as-is from the factory), including the stock kernel. Normally, your kernel would be updated when the operating system - your "ROM" - is updated. This would be the only way to get an official (from Sony) upgrade, and so the only way you'd get one supported by Sony. I point this out only to remind you that installing a kernel as described below will possibly void your warranty, as the changes are not tested or condoned by Sony, and may operate your device outside the intended limits, or possibly render it useless.

What you find on kernel.org is the human readable kernel source code for not only smart phones, but computers and all devices using the Linux kernel, such as Android tablets, TomTom navigation systems, or Linksys routers. The version you find on your phone has been tweaked specifically for your phone, with all the drivers needed to make things like the touchscreen and camera work. Most likely you will not be building a kernel yourself from the source code, but doing one of two things, instead:

* downloading a kernel built by someone else, who may have used a combination of the newer sources on kernel.org, and the drivers and settings from the kernel released by Sony. This would be installed over the top of your existing kernel on your phone, and to you, the phone would appear the same- think a Windows upgrade that changes things behind the scenes with little or no noticeable changes to the user. A popular feature in custom kernels is overclocking, which runs the phone at a faster speed than it was originally designed, but will probably decrease the life of the phone itself, as overclocked chips run hotter than intended. The risk is something you should research for yourself- I personally slightly overclock both my android phone and tablet.
* downloading a custom built version of Android built specifically for your phone. Some of these custom ROMs are extremely similar to the one Sony releases, including maybe the same kernel, or possibly the same interface with a different kernel. Some of the custom ROMs are extremely different, with changes to the user interface, various settings, maybe additional features borrowed from other phones- and may include a custom built kernel, complete with drivers so your phone's camera, wireless radios etc. all fully function. This may (and almost always does) require you to completely wipe the existing software on your phone, as if you were wiping and re-installing (or installing a newer version of) Windows or MacOS on a computer. It is rare that custom ROMs can be installed as an upgrade over existing, "stock" ROMs. After "flashing" (installing) the new ROM, your phone will behave as if it is the first time you have turned it on. Proper backups are key, and you may want to look into apps such as "Titanium Backup," which save settings and apps that can be restored after your phone has been "flashed" with a new ROM.

As for finding which custom kernel or custom ROM to use, that is entirely up to you, and you should do a bit of research. Most importantly, I'd ask why you want to use a newer version of the Linux kernel on your phone. If there are no issues you can point to that would be fixed with a newer version, and no specific features you could gain from using a custom kernel, there might not be a good reason to change. Sometimes newer kernels can increase battery life by tweaking the way the phone operates, reacts, sleeps etc., but not always. It's possible the 'best' kernel to use is the one Sony currently includes with the version of Android currently on your phone. You may find a custom ROM that includes certain features or changes to the user interface you'd like to see, and that ROM may use the same kernel Sony has made available.

Now, kernels and ROMs are device specific, meaning you'll not be able to use a kernel or ROM as-is built for, say, an HTC or Samsung device, or even most other Sony devices. I would highly recommend the xda-developers forums; a community for users and programmers who have taken to building and collectively supporting custom kernels and ROMs for various devices, as well as toolkits for rooting devices, installing new kernels and ROMs, and backing up/restoring all the software on your phone as a whole (just as you would to backup and restore a computer in case of a hard drive failure). Odds are, if anyone has built a custom ROM or kernel for your phone which is stable enough for the public to use, they have mentioned and linked to it there.

The steps to prepare your phone for a new kernel or completely new ROM vary from device to device. Your device comes "locked"- not allowing custom software without acknowledging that you are taking a risk of ruining your device- and will need to be unlocked first, following the instructions on this official Sony site. Then you will need to install a custom "recovery" (software which loads before Android even starts, and is independent from your ROM), and use that recovery interface to make a backup of your current ROM before making any changes. You then use the recovery to wipe the device and install the new ROM, or just install a new kernel over the top of your existing ROM.

The forum for your specific device, the Sony Xperia E Dual, can be found here, with discussions on how to complete all the necessary steps for your specific device, tools you may need, and custom kernels and ROMs in the two 'Development' forums. I can't stress enough that you try to find a walk-through that you are comfortable with understanding, as you can easily leave your device in an unusable state, or in extreme cases, "brick" the device, rendering it more or less useless. Most ROMs come with a list of steps to follow, and, fortunately, other device owners, and the people responsible for the custom ROMs and kernels can be a helpful resource.

Good luck, and welcome to one of the very best parts of owning an Android device: customization!

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Tags: linux, updates, kernel
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# Question
Title: Why does Better Battery Stats say my Galaxy S4 is awake 100% of the time?
I think the screenshots speak for themselves. Can't pinpoint a reason from what I see. Anyone can help please? Thanks

Screenshots (click images for larger variants)

# Answer
> 1 votes
Buggy firmware. Restarted and problem went away.

---
Tags: battery-life, samsung-galaxy-s-4
---


# Question
Title: received SMS with content "request failed"
Today I received two suspicious SMS from two different sender - both from the same provider. The messages only contained the text "request failed". The numbers do not look like some special expensive numbers.

Can anyone guess what happened?

Is there a way to find out if there is an app which is allowed to send SMS on my phone?

**Update:** now that I've seen that there is no suspicious app with permissions to send SMS, I try to reconsile the SMS in my SMS history with the ones from my bill. But I noticed that it's hard to get a chronological list of SMS from the build in app - any idea how I can get a chronological list of sent SMS and not conversations?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I got the same problem. Received two messages with "Request Failed" and am curious where they are from. I noticed that they always seem to arrive shortly after Google Calendar SMS. So maybe that's somehow connected.

As you might be able to see - the SMS is sent *to* you and not *from* you. In previous days I got the Google SMS sometimes twice. So maybe Google tried to fix the problem - what's left is a false request from Google using your number with their calender application, instead of replying to Google that the request is from it gets send to the alias number - being your number.

I guess there's nothing to worry about. But anyway I'll try to remove my number from Google - I saw that somewhere you can just remove all SMS notifications - that might help.

# Answer
> 1 votes
The last part of your question is easily answered, as there are a lot of permission scanners available on the Playstore. For added benefit, I will just mention one: AppBrain Ad Detector also scans for contained ad modules and more:

AppBrain Ad Detector (source: Google Play; click images for larger variants)

As you can see in the screenshots, such an app would turn up in "Has access to your messages", and for sure in "May cost you money".

There are a lot more permission-scanners out there, some even explaining what those permissions stand for and what they mean. Take a look e.g. at RL Permissions, Guardian Droid, or aSpotCat (app by permission) -- and check their related apps for more candidates.

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Tags: sms
---


# Question
Title: Is there any old style keyboard (numpad style) available for Android?
I have a smaller screen Android Phone (LG Optimus One P500).

**Does anyone know whether there is a keyboard available for Android phones that has an "old phone" style?** Like a numpad style? Here's an image example:

The reason I'm asking for this style of keyboard is:

1. This style uses only 12 buttons. So the buttons are large and very spaced out. You can click on them easily without having to strain your eyes too much.
2. You can quickly keep clicking away without having to spell out each word because the dictionary will take care of that. So "moon" becomes 4 clicks on the numpad 6. How fast is that?

I sure personally feel that lots of people are used to this kind of keyboard layout (from the times before Android became so popular). I don't understand why I can't find keyboards with this kind of a simple layout but I would be very grateful if someone could help me find an app like this.

**Edit:** Forgot to mention. I'm not looking for paid apps right now but would consider it if they have a trial.

# Answer
Well...Look for a keyboard that has a T9 layout.

As an example, I use Smart Keyboard Pro (which is a paid app, but a trial is available) and you can choose from the full, T9 and compact modes for portrait as well as landscape orientation. There are tons of other customizable options and considering that a keyboard that one is comfortable with, is what allows one to at their productive best, I opted to buy the full version.
> 2 votes

# Answer
It's not the T9 style that you're looking for, but I use the MessagEase keyboard. Here's a sample:

As you can see, it certainly has large buttons. It's also far more capable than any other keyboard I've run across. From the keyboard shown, you can enter lowercase letters, uppercase letters, numbers, symbols, cursor movement commands, and more. Some are entered with a single tap, but most are entered with a simple gesture, such as a swipe or circle.

It also features word completion, which you can see in the screenshot, but I rarely use it, since I find my typing speed is fast enough not to bother with it unless I'm typing a really long word. The learning curve is steep, but worth the effort, in my opinion.

(In case anyone is wondering, I have no association with the development of MessagEase, I'm just a satisfied user.)
> 1 votes

# Answer
Try Multiling keyboard. It's free, it supports multiple languages, it have two numeric layout for you to choose from.
> 1 votes

# Answer
You can try GO SMS Pro. It lets you select between 2 different layouts.
> 1 votes

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Tags: keyboard
---


# Question
Title: External keyboard for Galaxy tablet 2 7.0
I'm trying to use an external keyboard with my Galaxy tablet 2 7.0.

My tablet isn't detecting the keyboard, but it works when I plug it into my computer. This keyboard uses a normal USB male to connect, but my tablet uses samsung 30-pin to male. So, I bought a female-to-female adapter. I'm assuming this is the equivalent of a USB OTG adapter but still no joy.

How do I get this keyboard to work?

# Answer
> 0 votes
A female-to-female USB adaptor can't fill the role of a USB-on-the-go cable. A device that uses USB-OTG has the USB hardware and the drivers needed to act as a USB host *or* a USB peripheral. The wiring of the USB-OTG cable tells the device which role to act in. (The host side has two pins wired together, but the peripheral side doesn't.)

Most USB peripherals don't have the required hardware or software to act as a USB host. The Samsung Galaxy Tablet 2 7.0 *does*, but it needs a correctly wired adaptor so that it knows it's supposed to be acting as a host.

Samsung makes and sells a 30-pin to USB host adaptor, so you might be able to find one at your local electronics shop.

---
Tags: external-keyboard, samsung-galaxy-tab-2-7
---


title: Why doesn't my phone charge?

text:
# Question
Title: Why doesn't my phone charge?
Okay, so I already ordered a new battery, but in the mean time. Why won't my phone charge?

1. I have tried every charger/cable in my house and car (over 10 chargers and around 15 cables).
2. Double checked the setups with my tablet to make sure they work.
3. Checked battery temp with a WiFi tether app, shows 27-28 degrees centigrade. Moving so I know it works.
4. Restarted the phone, reseated the battery.
5. Replaced the battery with a brand new one.
6. It is even hesitant to charge when the phone is off. It would show initial charge symbol, then go to the charging animation for 5 seconds and restart. This is the only way to get any juice into my phone by the way.

---

### Update:

If I take the battery out while it's on the charger the screen flickers. At this point if I wiggle the cord I can get the flickering to stop, but I can also get the phone to turn off. So, I bet the solder points on the USB are faulty...

# Answer
> 1 votes
MicroUSB ports on phones are delicate and can be prone to losing a proper connection to the power on the circuit board if you're not ultra careful about making sure to not stress the connection point (like having the phone plugged in and the cable is taut).

My Wife has already gone through 2 phones and a laptop due to using them while the power plug is stretched and basically over time causing the power connection to come off the circuit board.

This sounds like the issue you're having and the only solutions are if you take the phone apart and re-solder the loose connection (requires ULTRA fine soldering skills) or take it in for repair and they'll likely have to replace the mainboard.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Open your car charger and at the back of the USB socket solder together the two middle contacts. These are the D- and D+ signals. Most Galaxy phones don't like an open circuit there, so now you have made a nice loop. Info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal\_Serial\_Bus

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Tags: samsung-galaxy-nexus, battery, charging
---


# Question
Title: What are the folders 'burstlyImageCache' and 'burstlyVideoCache' and can I delete them?
I'm interested in the following two folders found on my Samsung SIII:

* `/storage/sdcard0/burstlyImageCache`
* `/storage/sdcard0/burstlyVideoCache`

Together they only come to about 1.5 MB on my device.

What application creates these, and can they be safely removed?

# Answer
They're cache directories that hold Ads for games. I've read Angry Birds is one such game that uses those directories.

Yes, you could delete them, but they'll keep coming back everytime a game reloads their Ads.
> 6 votes

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Tags: file-system, file-management
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# Question
Title: Full battery completely depleted within a few hours without any user activity -- what to do?
I left my phone on the table with full battery without doing anything with it. After a few hours the battery was completely depleted, and the phone automatically shut down.

What could cause such a thing, and what actions to take in such a situation?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Some causes and answers...

1. You leave a high-CPU using app/game paused or running.

* Apps and Games can and do continue to devour battery if left running. If you're going to step away for awhile, make sure to exit out of any games or apps first (particularly any that usually cause the phone to get warm while using) so they don't unnecessarily become power vampires.
2. Cellular/Data Signal Hunting.

* Especially with LTE phones, if you're in an area with bad signal the radio on the phone will continue to try to make connection and will drain the phone in doing so. Putting the phone in Airplane mode before leaving it for extended periods will stop the radio from 'hunting'.
3. Too many background activities (or updates set too often).

* Twitter, Facebook, Email, etc... Setting how often they communicate with their servers (like switching from every 5 minutes to once an hour) can make a big impact on battery savings.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Use an app like Better Battery Stats to track down the issue and find the culprit.

---
Tags: battery-life, charging
---


# Question
Title: How do I install a .apk on my Nexus 7 using the browser?
I recently got an Asus Nexus 7 Tablet shipped to me, and want to be able to use all of the .apk files I have saved on my computer (all purchased/downloaded legitimately). Here's the issue:

I'm in the navy and underway, and will be for quite some time. I have no ability to connect my Nexus to a wifi/wired network (not allowed to plug it into a ship's network computer via USB), and I have no ability to connect my personal computer to the internet either, so setting up a Google Play account on the tablet is a no-go. My laptop is a Macbook, and I DO have Android File Transfer installed, but that's pretty much all I'm working with here.

When I plug my tablet into the laptop, Android File Transfer pops up, and I can drag and drop files onto the Nexus, HOWEVER, I don't have any file manager program to access the .apk files once they're on the tablet.

I have tried going to settings and checking the Unknown Sources box in the Security menu, dragged and dropped an assortment of .apk files into the Nexus root folder, and then have entered "file:///sdcard/xxx.apk" into the Google Chrome internet browser window ("xxx.apk" being whatever file path I'm trying to access). But when I hit "Go", the browser page just flashes, refreshes with a blank address bar, and it's like nothing happened.

Is there any hope for me, or is this Nexus 7 just going to be a very expensive paper weight until I finally see land (and wifi) again?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

# Answer
The first thing worth noting that your original attempt at pointing your browser to the .apk directly *should* work (see the comments starting with Stephen Schrauger's). It's not really clear why this would not be the case for you, but you may want to double-check your Downloads app (in the app drawer) and your pathing. It could be that it's "downloading" in the background but it happens so quickly that you do not realize it.

If for some reason that really isn't working, then you can try a potential workaround. This is pretty ugly, but it does work. I've tested this on my Nexus 10, for reference.

Create a folder on your laptop that contains your apk files (we'll call it `apkfolder` for the purposes of this example), then within that folder create an HTML file (we'll call it `apkinstall.html`) using a text editor. Since you have an Astro apk, use this as the content of the HTML file:

```
<a href="Astro.apk">Install Astro</a>

```

Where `Astro.apk` should be the actual name of your Astro apk file.

Now copy `apkfolder` onto the root of your Nexus 7's storage using Android File Transfer. Make sure that all the apks copy over as well as the HTML file.

**If you are using TextEdit on a Mac**: TextEdit will attempt to treat things as RTF files by default, so even if you save it with a .html extension it may not work. One workaround I've found is to go to `Format > Make Plain Text` before you save the file. You'll know you're in the correct format when the rulers and such disappear from the TextEdit window. Then you can save the file and make sure you use change the `.txt` to `.html`.

Next launch your browser, and point it to `file:///sdcard/apkfolder/apkinstall.html`. You should get a mostly blank page, with a link that says "Install Astro". Click that link to install the Astro apk from your storage, then use Astro to install all your other apps. If you're using Chrome, then you'll probably need to pull down the notification bar and tap the "Download complete" notification to actually kick off the install.

In the more general case, if you didn't have a file manager apk, you could instead add a bunch of link entries to the HTML file - one for each app - and install *all* of them that way. In your case, this shouldn't be necessary.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: sd-card, apk, file-management
---


title: Samsung Galaxy S3 Won't recognize USB

text:
# Question
Title: Samsung Galaxy S3 Won't recognize USB
When i got my gs3 i plugged it into my computer (Win 7) and drivers installed automatically. everything was perfectly fine i was able to access both sd and phone from my computer. i took it to activation with clear talk and it didn't recognize usb. I have reinstalled proper drivers from samsung web page. i have also tried kies. kies wont accept it. I have tried it on linux and didn't work. Both computers recognize phone but phone wont recognize computers. The thing is i won't get the option of mtp or ptp on the drop down notification menu. this is not a matter of drivers or usb debugging. i have tried to remove battery for 1 min and reset it. any ideas how to fix?

# Answer
After frustrating research i found the solution. the guy who flashed my phone from us cellular to clear talk messed up. soulution Open Dialer enter \*#22745927 When Enable/Disable Menu comes up tap "Hidden Menu Disabled" Select "Enable" on Popup Press Home button Open Dialer Dial \**87284 When PhoneUtil Opens Select PDA Tap Qualacomm USB Setting Select DM+Modem+ADB Tap OK (Remember after flashing to return and put phone back to MTP+ADB) All props go to this page http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2270191 there is other devices listed there as well.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3, usb-connection-mode
---


# Question
Title: Cannot charge battery via usb cable to pc after upgrade firmware and android version to 4.1.2 (Galaxy S2)
I cannot charge battery via USB cable to PC after upgrading firmware and android version to 4.1.2 (Galaxy S2 mobile). Anybody please explain to or advise me, how I can I get my PC charge my mobile's battery via USB cable.

# Answer
Many USB ports on computers do not have power sufficient to charge a phone battery. Does the phone charge with the plug-in type supplied with it? Some computers will advertise a charging USB port. The default current (amps) is 1/2 A or 500mA in a standard USB connector. It is not uncommon for tablets to require 2 Amps.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-2, 4.1-jelly-bean, device-firmware
---


# Question
Title: Can Samsung tell if my galaxy s3 is rooted if the phone doesn't turn on anymore?
My Galaxy s3 suffered from what seems to be the "sudden death syndrome". It had been turning off once in a while and wouldn't turn back on unless I removed and the battery and put it back in. But the last time it turned off it would not turn back on. When I connect my phone to the PC, the PC will make a sound recognizing the device has been connected but does not read it. When charging the phone to a wall socket, nothing happens. But if I remove the battery and connect it to either the outlet or the PC, the red led goes on. The battery isn't the problem though because I tried a different galaxy s3 battery and it did not work. I sent my phone to Samsung for repair under warranty but my question is whether they will be able to tell if the device is rooted despite the phone not turning on at all. Thanks a lot for the help!

# Answer
If you can connect to the device from a PC then they will most likely be able to tell. It might not matter though because they might not look for that and unless they intentionally look to see if its rooted they will not know. Also like @Poldie said they might not legally be able to do anything about it depending on where you live.
> 1 votes

# Answer
They will know probably after they fix it. If you rooted it and used a different firmware on the device they can recognize the changes from it's previous memory.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3, root-access, warranty
---


title: Deleting Google Image Search History

text:
# Question
Title: Deleting Google Image Search History
On my Android device, the Samsung Galaxy S, I frequently use Google and its search functions. Now have I noticed that I cannot seem to delete the Image Search history. When I search something using the regular search I can easily delete that search afterwards. But an earlier search in the Google Image Search does not seem to be possible..

Am I wrong? I have already tried things like deleting the search history through Google, which did not help, and deleting the history on my browser app, which also did not help.

If anyone has some helpful information it will be appreciated!

Kind Regards, Floris

**EDIT:** This has **not** been solved yet. The issue still remains. I can delete the history of the regular Google website, the Browser on my Phone and the history of the Google Widget. Yet *after* doing a search through the Google Widget you come to a Google page with the results, if you search again on *that* page then the autocomplete comes on with all my old history. Still searching a solution.

**EDIT 2:** This question is not relevant to me anymore. Due to some other issues I had to go back to factory settings which deleted most of my data. I cannot accept any answer as I am not able to check whether that answers works..

# Answer
There are two cases:

1. You are logged in your google account on your device browser
2. You are not logged in

In case 1, go to www.google.com, scroll down and click on "settings" at the bottom. You'll get to a page which gives you the option of wiping your search history

In case 2, go to www.google.com, start typing something in the search box, you'll see in the autocomplete the option to wipe your search results.

What Matthew suggested wipes the search history of your device not on google's servers.

You have to do both if you wanna clear everything.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Go To Settings, More at the top right of the screen, then click on storage, then click applications, find the Google Maps application in the list and click it. Once inside click Clear data and Clear cache. This should fix the problem
> 1 votes

# Answer
History in the browser is your history of visited sites. Saved form information (your searches) is different and separate. Hit the `Clear form data` option in the browser settings.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s, google-search, search-history
---


title: Check the original carrier of Galaxy S3

text:
# Question
Title: Check the original carrier of Galaxy S3
How do I check the original carrier for Galaxy S3 (model no is *i9300* in Australia)?

I bought it from one buyer. I can't use the network. So, please help me.

# Answer
i9300 is international model of Samsung Galaxy S3. So it won't come up with any specific carrier. You can also use i9300 with any carrier as you like. but there are some other models with specific carriers. If you want use them ,you need to unlock it. Like: 1747- At&T US....

You can check carriers and S3 model names here
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-3, carriers
---


title: Flaw in `adb shell ime list -a`?

text:
# Question
Title: Flaw in `adb shell ime list -a`?
I wanted to understand how to work with IMEs. More precisely, I was trying to figure out how to disable in a single command one can disable all the input methods so that the hardware keyboard takes over. I thought that the detailed description given about each input method on giving the

```
adb shell ime list -a

```

command (with an emulator instance running on my 12.04 64-bit Ubuntu machine) might help me.

Here I accidentally observed (see the pic below) that in spite of the disabling the various IMEs and then giving the IME listing command, `enabled=true` stays!

Is this a bug?

# Answer
> 3 votes
The `enabled=true` in this list tells whether the IME's *service* is enabled in its manifest; that is, whether the developer of the IME has allowed it to appear in that list. It has nothing to do with whether it's turned on or off in the settings.

---
Tags: adb, shell, input-methods
---


# Question
Title: What does "adb shell ime list" commands do?
What do the following two commands mean?

```
adb shell ime list -s
adb shell ime list

```

and why don't they return anything at all? See code below:

```
aneesh@nb-14:~$ adb shell ime list -s
aneesh@nb-14:~$ adb shell ime list
aneesh@nb-14:~$ adb shell ime list -a
jp.co.omronsoft.openwnn/.OpenWnnJAJP:
  mId=jp.co.omronsoft.openwnn/.OpenWnnJAJP mSettingsActivityName=jp.co.omronsoft.openwnn.OpenWnnControlPanelJAJP
  mIsDefaultResId=0x0
  Service:
...
... etc.

```

I found no manual entry for these commands. It suggested that I did `mandb` to update the manual entries list. Googled too! But these efforts were in vain.

Any help is appreciated!

# Answer
You won't find anything about this in the man page on your desktop, nor the usage information for `adb` because this isn't an `adb` command. Remember that `adb shell foo` starts a shell on the device and runs the command `foo` there. It would be like looking in the `ssh` man page to find out what `ssh myserver rm -rf *` does.

The command you want help with is `ime list`, and it only exists on the device, not your desktop. Running `adb shell ime` (with no further arguments) prints out the usage information for this command.

```
usage: ime list [-a] [-s]
       ime enable ID
       ime disable ID
       ime set ID

The list command prints all enabled input methods.  Use
the -a option to see all input methods.  Use
the -s option to see only a single summary line of each.

The enable command allows the given input method ID to be used.

The disable command disallows the given input method ID from use.

The set command switches to the given input method ID.

```

"Enabled" in this description doesn't refer to the "enabled" field in the manifest (that is, the one printed out under `ServiceInfo`), but rather whether the IME is turned on in the settings. It might be a little confusing to have two different things called "enabled", but don't forget that `adb` is a debugging tool for programmers, who are expected to understand such things. End-users shouldn't need to run this command, since the list of IMEs is accessible through the device settings.

From this description, if you get output with `ime list -a` but not `ime list`, that tells you that no input methods are currently enabled in the settings.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: adb, shell, input-methods
---


# Question
Title: What does "Voice Command" "Unexpected server error occurred. Please try again." mean?
When I restart my Samsung Galaxy S2 (GT-I9100), I get an error message:

> Voice Command
>
> An unexpected server error occurred. Please try again.
>
> \[OK\]

This started ever since I download the trial version of (redacted) earlier tonight, but its still happening even after I uninstalled it.

I've not accepted the Voice Command agreement. Whenever I accidentally activate it by pressing the home key the wrong way, I select `Decline`.

What does this error message actually mean?

# Answer
I was getting this error constantly today, so I went to `Settings``Applications``All``Voice Command`. From there I clicked `Force Stop``OK` then `Clear Data``OK`. Then I relaunched the voice command by tapping the microphone button on my Google search widget.

The Voice Command worked perfectly, and I haven't seen the error message in about an hour.
> 8 votes

# Answer
For now, you can disable voice commands from `Settings->Applications`. I am sure it is a Samsung server issue.
> 6 votes

# Answer
On this forum someone mentioned the following:

> I just called samsung technical support. Google voice has a problem with their server in the mean time you can disable voice command under settings - applications - All - voice command click that then click disable. Was told the message will stop popping up. Tech # 1800-762-7864

I did notice the same problem on my SGS2 yesterday but I haven't seen any error messages since yesterday evening so I suspect the issue has been resolved by either Samsung or Google.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-2, voice-command, system-error
---


title: Device not booting after factory reset

text:
# Question
Title: Device not booting after factory reset
My problems is my phone keep showing 'ANDROID' after I'm resetting it.

I tried to restart but it keep showing the same.

What can I do?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Depending on your phone there could an option for a "hard" factory reset. This is usually done through a combination of key press just after turning the device ON so it does not require the OS to start.

I would suggest you to google "hard factory reset" with the name of your device to find more information.

---
Tags: factory-reset, boot
---


# Question
Title: Can I update my Saudi Arabian Samsung Galaxy S2 to the latest Android version over the air in India?
I have a Samsung Galaxy S2 I9100 which my cousin bought for me in Saudi Arabia. It is running on Android 2.3 ginger bread. Will I get firmware updates for this phone in India over the air (OTA)?

# Answer
> 3 votes
OTA update will depend on the CSC of your phone. CSC is Country Sales Code; it tells you which region your phone can be used in and which networks it will work with.

If you are in India (and your phone is connected to an India network), and your phone has CSC for Saudi Arabia, you will not be able to get OTA updates. What you can do is flash a stock ROM for India on your phone using Odin. After you do this, you will be able to get future OTA updates. **WARNING: Changing ROM might require a wipe of your phone.**

Some ROMS have Multi-CSC that might support the region you are in. In this case, you don't need to flash a new ROM. You can just change it with the "Samsung Galaxy S / S2 / S3 CFC" app in Google Play. **WARNING: Changing CSCs will wipe your phone.**

The CSC code for India is ODD.

---
Tags: 2.3-gingerbread, samsung-galaxy-s-2, updates, samsung-kies, device-firmware
---


# Question
Title: Does turning off the "Show notifications" settings for apps improve battery life?
I recently found that there is a "Show notifications" settings for individual app in my HTC One X. I have turned it off for some applications like Subway Surfers (which tries to sell me coins in notifications).

Will disabling notifications improve my battery life? How does Android handle if notifications are turned off for a particular app - does it only hide notifications from notification bar or it really does not allow the app to create any notifications in first place (so in this case I presume that it would save battery life)?

# Answer
Disabling a notification for particular app wont' save battery. Yes it would a little by not ringing and vibrating and also by not making you look at the phone.

Actually notification is handled by OS itself. An app just says that I want this notification to be displayed and OS handles it. In your case those apps are running in background using service and periodically asks the OS to display the notification. Event though you've disabled the notification the service is still running and still requesting the OS to display notification.
> 6 votes

---
Tags: 4.1-jelly-bean, notifications, htc-one-x, notification-bar
---


# Question
Title: Multiple time zones on Nexus 4 - Android 4.2.2
Is it possible to set two different time zones on nexus 4-android 4.2.2 version?

I want to set-up EST (Eastern Standard Time) & IST (Indian Standard Time)...

Thank you

# Answer
Of course.

Open the clock app. On the bottom bar you'll see three icons, one for alarm ,one for place and one for menu. Click the middle one. Select the cities you want and those time will be added to the clock.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 4.2-jelly-bean, nexus-4
---


title: Web Browser roadmap for HTML5 features?

text:
# Question
Title: Web Browser roadmap for HTML5 features?
I've been watching the caniuse.com site for a while now, and at one extreme we have Firefox releasing a new browser once/week (okay, slight exaggeration), and at the other extreme the Android list of 2.1/2.2/2.3/3.0/4.0/4.1/4.2 never changes. There is still nothing in the "Near future" or "Farther future" rows.

There are a number of HTML5 technologies not implemented even in 4.2, and I'm wondering when there is a new version coming, and what we can expect it to support. (EDIT: I'm looking for links to official announcements, developer blogs, etc. or a confident "nobody knows"; not speculation.)

(E.g. http://caniuse.com/eventsource )

(BTW, the StackOverflow Android tag seemed to suggest this was the best place to ask this kind of question. But if another site is better please let me know.)

# Answer
The default browser is being replaced by Chrome as of Android 4.1 for stock Android, so I doubt it will see any updates in the future. If you want to use sites that have HTML5 features, you should install Chrome and use that (and by extension if you're targeting Android devices with a web app, you should be targeting Chrome).
> 2 votes

# Answer
You can install the Dolphin Browser, and change the user-agent to ipad.

Then dolphin can use html5.

You see these instructions when you try to activate flash in Dolphin.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: browser, html5
---


# Question
Title: What exactly is this App Data that is being backed up to Google?
Anyone know exactly what "app data" consist off? I'm refering to the new App Data-backup adapter that Google pushed out a while ago. I have a notes application. From what I can see, it don't save the notes to the memory card unless I choose to export them. Question is, are the notes saved in the data folder and are my (very private) notes therefor somewhere within the Google cloud now?

(This backup happened behind my back - I have all sync adapters turned off, but this one was installed silently and of course enabled by default. I'm not comfortable at all with this.)

# Answer
Google has documented details of the Android Backup Service and of the Data Backup Framework on its Android Developers website. The descriptions are targeted to developers writing applications but are still helpful:

> Android's backup service allows you to copy your persistent application data to remote "cloud" storage, in order to provide a restore point for the application data and settings. If a user performs a factory reset or converts to a new Android-powered device, the system automatically restores your backup data when the application is re-installed. This way, your users don't need to reproduce their previous data or application settings. This process is completely transparent to the user and does not affect the functionality or user experience in your application.

They also specifically address user privacy:

> Google securely transmits backup data to and from Google servers in order to provide backup and restore features. Google treats this data as personal information in accordance with Google's Privacy Policy.
>
> In addition, users can disable data backup functionality through the Android system's privacy settings. When a user disables backup, Android Backup Service deletes all saved backup data. A user can re-enable backup on the device, but Android Backup Service will not restore any previously deleted data.

**TL/DR:** If the Notes app is configured to use the Android Backup Service and has defined your notes as data to include in the backup, then yes, your data is being stored on a Google server. Toggling `Backup my data` will delete currently saved personal information from Google's servers that is associated with your Google account. This will affect all of your current apps' backed up data.
> 4 votes

# Answer
Generally, it's entirely up to each individual app what data to back up, if any. Google's Android Backup Service provides an interface for apps to tell it what data to back up. That might include files from the data directory, settings, files from the SD card, databases, or even media files that are already visible through the Gallery or Music apps. If the app is badly written, it may also include transient state or cached data.

As a user, the only way you can tell is by asking the developer of an app. Google encourages developers to add backup support to their apps, and many users request that feature.
> 2 votes

# Answer
From AndroidPolice:

> Google will, of course, give you control over your cloud data. The language used here is particularly interesting: they call this data "app data stored with your Google account," which means **it's the same "app data" we all know and love from the "clear app data" button**. That means all your 3rd-party app data in the cloud, seamlessly synced across devices.

However, it's not clear yet how much data is being sent, or if there is a max limit that can be stored on the Cloud.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: backup, google-backup
---


# Question
Title: USB host mode not working on Samsung Galaxy S using CyanogenMod
I am using CyanogenMod 10.1.0-RC3 (Android 4.2.2) on my Samsung Galaxy S Plus (GT-I9001). I have read Android 4 supports USB on the go, so I wanted to give it a try.

I bought a USB OTG cable, and connected a USB stick (formatted FAT32) to my phone. Nothing happened. After reading this question, I installed USB Host diagnostics, and my device says:

> **Android API**
>
> Claims support: Yes
>
> Classes found: Yes
>
> Device Detected: No

I bought a new USB OTG cable to be sure this is not the problem, but the result is the same.

What am I missing? I have the right Android version, an appropriate cable, no special hardware (just a USB stick - I tried with different ones). Maybe I need the host mode drivers? But I don't know where to find them, and I am not sure if this is my problem.

What can cause my issue and how can I solve it?

# Answer
The Galaxy S Plus (i9001) needs an external power source to have a working USB OTG. See this link on XDA for more information (it's for the i9000, but does also apply).

According to GSMArena's spec (*USB: Yes, microUSB v2.0*) the i9001 firmware doesn't originally support USB-OTG (compare the S3's spec, but 3rd party firmware added this later on. It does however not function without external 5V power.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: usb-host-mode, usb-on-the-go, samsung-galaxy-s-plus
---


# Question
Title: How can i turn off the message received tick
I have a sony ericsoon xperia x10 mini. when I send a text message, a tick appears to let tme know it has been received by the recipient. This costs me money, how do I turn this off? I have looked through the menu and cannot seem to find the answer.

# Answer
**Message** App--\> **Setting** --\>***Turn off* Delivery Report**
> 2 votes

# Answer
I advise you to start the Messaging App to see if a Settings menu is attached to the application, rather than as a General Setting. Look for a setting similar to the name "Delivery Report" or "Delivery Confirmation", and turn it off.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: sms, sony-ericsson-xperia-x10
---


# Question
Title: Samsung galaxy note knocking off other computers wifii
My Samsung galaxy note 10.1 32gb knocks off the other computers on the WiFi network when I connect. Mine connects fine, but the other computers (laptops) get knocked off and have to be rebooted or repaired to gain access again. Why does this happen and how can I fix it?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Your Phone might be connecting to the Wi-FI network using a static IP (thus knocking off whatever device is also using that same IP to connect), go to advanced settings on your connection and choose DHCP, that should fix it.

---
Tags: wi-fi
---


# Question
Title: Why are some USB chargers slower than others?
It seems with USB chargers for my android phone, not all are created equal.

The first pic is the official charger which came with my phone (galaxy nexus). It charges quickly, from 0 to 100% in a couple of hours max.

The second pic is a cheapy I got on ebay to use at the office. It works but it's slow as a wet week, can take 6+ hours to charge and if I use the phone while it's charging, it seems to drain faster than it's being charged.

The two chargers below seem to be the same spec (5V / 1A) and from my limited understanding that `P = V*I` they should provide the same power, right?

What else do I need to look for when buying a charger, and is there any way to tell in advance if it is going to be slow or fast (apart from testing them out)?

<sup>(click images for larger variant)</sup>

ps: I'm aware that charging from a computer USB port can be much slower than using the wallwart, because the computer USB ports can sometimes be current-limited to 500 mA.

# Answer
Lies, damned lies, and equipment specs. I can print up a lovely sticker that says it'll output 1000A. Doesn't mean it'll output that.

It's significantly cheaper to make a low-power supply than it is to make a high-power power supply. Making the latter means you need a bigger transformer (with heavier windings), larger capacitor(s), larger inductor(s) and higher current rectifier(s), all of which add up to more money. If you're trying to make stuff on the cheap and aren't worried about pesky things like ethics, you'll go with the lower end components and massage the specs (by testing at low temperatures, etc. This is especially common with computer power supplies which specify output at 25C, even though they would actually operate at ~40C unless you're using them inside a refrigerator), use theoretical values rather than actually testing the product (saving money on QA), or just outright lie about the specs, the latter of which is probably the case with this charger, for reasons below.

One big red warning light that your charger is substandard is that the CE mark (which is used to indicate conformance to EU standards) is fake. The shape of the letters and their spacing is wrong. A real CE mark should have the letters each forming a half-and-a-bit circle and should link up if you continue the arc, as shown below. A cursory glance at the mark on your charger shows it looks nothing like this.

The CCC mark (indicating compliance to Chinese standards) is also fake.

Other warnings signs include having no manufacturer listed and improper capitalization (should be mA, not MA, unless they're claiming is can supply a billion amps.).

In essence, to determine if a charger is likely to be substandard, apply the same thoughts as you would for determining whether a product is counterfeit. The only real difference between a substandard product and most counterfeits is whether a manufacturer's label is forged or not.
> 42 votes

# Answer
Aside from the actual power provided, there's another variable: Whether the device RECOGNIZES that the charger is capable of putting out the rated amps.

Devices have some different strategies for recognizing what rating a charger has. Now when connected to a computer, it's easy - the numbers come across during USB enumeration. But when connecting to a dumb charger, it's harder, and you don't want to try to draw too much, as that will cause the charger's over-current protection to kick in and cut it off.

I know that Apple uses a specific set of resistors in their charges to produce specific voltages on the USB data lines. Their devices then look for those voltages and take them to mean that they can draw some larger amount of current.

The problem with this is that there don't seem to be a lot of standards on this detection - different devices seem to do different things.

I'd guess that your cheapo-charger doesn't do whatever the galaxy nexus requires to recognize that the charger is capable of 1 amp, so it doesn't try to charge at the higher rate.
> 25 votes

# Answer
Just like resistors, chargers have error margins, it's just not written on them, simply because it should be negligible in the case of known brands. Your phone will not even charge if the charger is deviating a lot from the designated voltage. It's not even supposed to harm your phone because modern phones have fail safe measures in them. Now if the charger is having the right voltage, the speed of charging is dependent on the amount of current it passes. And here is where the problem lies with cheap chargers. Cheap components affect the amount of current passing through them.
> 1 votes

# Answer
If smartphone is taking longer with cheapy charger for full charge, it means that the cheapy is giving less power. There's no exception or loophole with that. Grab a multimeter and measure the output by your own.

In this case, the printed specs (5V/1A) may simply be wrong or there may be other things like cable, connector etc which are screwing the output.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Even 10A charger will not fast that fast because **Android recognized your charger as 500mah**.

Workaround https://dangerousthings.com/shop/android-fast-charge-usb-cable/ Or by shorting DATA+ and DATA-
> 0 votes

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Tags: battery, charging
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