# Question
Title: Play Store error: "Check your connection and try again", tried all possible solutions
I am using Huawei Honor 3C running v4.4.2, and is rooted for like 1 year without any issue. All of a sudden I am receiving this error: "Check your connection and try again" on Play Store.

Every time I connect to internet it gives me "Unfortunately, Google Play Services has stopped" error 1-2 times and then it goes away.

Possible solutions I already tried:

1. Changing time to/from Automatic/Manual
2. Removing 'hosts' file
3. Airplane mode On/Off
4. Force stopping and clearing data/cache of Play Store and Google Play Services app
5. Uninstalling updates
6. Removing and adding the Google account again
7. Changing DNS to Google's or Open DNS' DNS in WIFI setting
8. Setting 'No Proxy' in Wi-Fi setting
9. Changing IP Address (incrementing)
10. Resetting all apps settings to default

On Device:

* Hangout and other apps are working fine
* Using latest version of Google Play Store and Google Play Services
* I am unable to find Service Framework app

# Answer
> 0 votes
Getting a Google Services Framework apk from MIUI forum, installing it, clearing the cache/data of Google Play Services and Google Play Store, and in the end, restarting the phone solved the problem for me. It seems that the Services Framework was the culprit.

Thank you everyone who answered or helped me.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I saw that you've all required steps but just check if Google Service Framework is deactivated - normally in the end of the app list or in a tab called "Deactivated" (Settings\>Apps\>All). Google Framework Services is a must to have in android so that you can update the apps and make connections with Google Servers.

Also reset app preferences (Settings\>APPS\>(Phone Menu) Reset App Defaults)

# Answer
> 0 votes
Happened to me long time ago and I solved the problem uninstalling Play Services and reinstalling again. In my case I downloaded from Apkmirror an older version and then it asked to update. I did it and everything worked perfectly.

BUT be sure sure which version you need because it depends on your processor and Android version. There's an explanation about this on Apkmirror when you go to download the Play Services apk.

Hope it helps!

# Answer
> 0 votes
For everyone that used the latest version of Lucky patcher and Play Store Proxy:

You may encounter that when you uninstalled the proxy, the legit Play store would say this. In that case, use the standard iptables flush rules. It doesn't really use the `hosts` file.

Use a terminal emulator or ADB to flush your iptables' tables. Does not work with Freedom.

```
iptables -F
iptables -X
iptables -t nat -F
iptables -t nat -X
iptables -t mangle -F
iptables -t mangle -X
iptables -P INPUT ACCEPT
iptables -P FORWARD ACCEPT
iptables -P OUTPUT ACCEPT

```

---
Tags: google-play-store, connection-issues
---


# Question
Title: Android 5.0 “updating contact list” error
After updating my **android 5.0** (lollipop) phone (Samsung Note 3 N9005) my contact list couldn't open. When I want to open my contacts there was always a process like "**updating contact list**" and I couldn't open my contacts. Also my Whatsapp contacts were always refreshing when I open whatsapp and click my contacts and it takes long time.

# Answer
I resolved the problem like below:

1. Go **Settings**-\>**General**-\>**Cloud**-\>**Sync Settings**
2. Tap to "**Sync Contacts**"
3. Then go back **Settings**-\>**General**-\>**Application Manager**-\>**ALL** section
4. Select "**Contacts**" then **Clear Data** and **Clear Cache**.
5. Select "**Contacts Storage**" then **Clear Data** and **Clear Cache** (All contacts removed).
6. Go **Settings**-\>**General**-\>**Cloud**-\>**Sync Settings**
7. Tap to "**Sync Contacts**" to bring your contacts again.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, updates, contacts, device-firmware
---


# Question
Title: What is a decent speed for a card that can be used as internal storage in marshmallow?
Marshmallow allows sd cards to be used as internal storage.

I would like to know what is the benchmark for the cards that can be used seamlessly with Marshmallow as internal storage.

It would be good if someone can the technical details of the cards to look at before buying cards for marshmallow.

# Answer
My SanDisc Ultra was according to Marshmallow not fast enough ;( - but worked. I couldnt find anything on the Definition of the Speed for Marshmallow to swallow those SDs without an notification. But I assume that all are not fast enough and you will get notifications nonetheless: Here are Classifications of Speed: For Samsung Flagship (S6 e.g.) UFC 2.0 = 100mb/s emmc = 90mb/s (most of the phones have this) SD Cards: UHS3 30mb/s UHS1 10mb /s class 10 10mb/s class 6 6mb/s (those Speeds (obviously) are depending on your phones Controller)

I feel like that as Long as the SD Card Speed is smaller as the built in Speeds - your will get those error/info notifications. But I could get it to run with class 10 (no Problems) - Streaming movies / Music was no Problem

Do you want to use the internal mode? (on what phone/purpose?)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow
---


# Question
Title: Factory reset for every Cyanogenmod Update?
I plan to install Cyanogenmod on my new Android phone. For this first install, I've to do a factory reset - what's no problem on a factory new phone. But do I have to perform this factory reset on every minor and major update of the mod in the next month and years - and loosing all my app settings, logins, game highscores etc. again and again? Or does the Cyanogenmod update behave like a normal Android update (just a little bit downloading, rebooting and continue with all apps and settings as before)?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Generally speaking **you don't have to perform a factory reset when downloading a newer build**. The flashable zip should perform all wipes by itself if it is necessary (only certain partitions are affected - your data should be safe). Many developers include an OTA(Over-The-Air)Update Application so you can comfortably download and install the new build with 1-3 clicks. It depends on which device and which custom rom you are using.

In most cases you only have to perform a factory reset

1. when you're performing a fresh installation of CM
2. the android version changes(factory reset may not be needed but it is adviced most of the times)
3. when something goes wrong :)

The best thing to do is to make regular backups and save them on your computer - this way you won't loose much.

# Answer
> 2 votes
You can either update manually or using installer instructions

Quoting from Cyanogenmod official site updating related to **manual** Updates

> If you are doing a major update (such as from CM 7 to CM 10) or wish to clear the device's data partion, select Clear data partition or Factory Reset (depending on the recovery menu you are using)

Again from release versioning

> CyanogenMod 9 - 10.2 build tags- CyanogenMod 9 through 10.2 were qualified with tags: Experimental, Nightly, Release Candidate, and Stable. The Snapshot tag was added with the introduction of M builds in CyanogenMod 10.2. These tags were meant to indicate a build's suitability for general use.
>
> Nightly: usually generated every 24 hours, experimental, newest features, unstable Experimental: testing version requested by device maintainers to evaluate specific changes M Snapshot: milestone snapshot, more stable than a nightly but potentially some issues Release Candidate: last builds before stable release, few minor issues, mostly stable, and safe for daily use Stable: most stable version available, all or nearly all issues resolved

Nightlies are not recommended unless you can handle issues arising out of it

> These ROMs are largely untested, and as advised by CyanogenMod, not meant for use for an average user.

To answer your question now, avoid nightly/ experimental/ snapshot builds, install only stable builds and update as recommended by CM installer or manually as highlighted.

***Generally* minor updates and nightly builds do not need factory reset**

This is about official builds. If you are sourcing your build from other developer forums follow their instructions

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, updates
---


# Question
Title: HTC Sensation won't boot but vibrates regularly
*Recently my nice old HTC Sensation broke. Only 1-2 few weeks later, when I had a new one already, I managed to resurrect it by just using a different back cover. Since I didn't find the particular symptoms anywhere else on the internet, I decided to post the problem here and to answer it myself so that it might help anybody to recover his data when seeing similar symptoms.*

---

**History of my HTC Sensation**:

16 months ago, it got wet in the rain and stopped working for at least some days. I guess this is relevant because the contacts probably started corroding then. I bought another broken phone of the same model, hoping I could replace some parts, but two weeks later, when I came around to do that, it worked again.

This year, the phone more and more often suddenly rebooted, and about two weeks ago, it was stuck in a frozen state where the system buttons below the display were lit but the power button wouldn't work, so I had to remove the battery in order to reboot it.

This happened once more and this time, after connecting the charging cable, reinserting the battery, and powering on it did nothing but **vibrating in regular intervals**: it vibrated every 18.4 seconds but the display stayed black. Again, this could only be stopped by removing the battery. I brushed the contacts a little and the next time it booted fine.

One day later this happened again and this time no brushing helped. At that time I haven't tried recovery mode since I didn't know about it yet.

So I was sure this is a hardware problem and the phone is predestined to die finally soon, but what can I do now to make it boot at least once more so that I can backup or transfer my data to another phone? Brush the contacts even harder?

# Answer
> 0 votes
1-2 weeks later, I wanted to rescue my data, but again it went into the vibration loop. I replaced the back cover with the one from the other broken device I mentioned above and this helped. Once it booted with the replacement back cover, I tried to reproduce the problem with the original back cover but now it boots ok with that, too.

Anyway, the conclusion is that the phone isn't completely lost when this vibration loop occurs.

---
Tags: boot-loop, htc-sensation
---


# Question
Title: what is the best way to securely send SMS?
what is the best way to securely send details like bank account, credit card etc through SMS ?

is there any apps available for free ?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Signal by OpenWhisper Systems seems to be good, secure and free. Using it myself.

Edit: my bad, they don't do secure sms anymore. Well, there's still SMSSecure app, which might be of use.

---
Tags: sms
---


title: Locate nexus 9 serial number

text:
# Question
Title: Locate nexus 9 serial number
I have a defect nexus 9 tablet, which is getting stuck in the initialization animation (Marshmallow). I still have a warranty, but I can't locate the S/N. I stupidly didn't save the original box, and it isn't written on the back of the tablet. btw, factory reset also didn't help. Thanks!

# Answer
> 1 votes
Ok, I've finally found how to locate the s/n. When the tablet is off, press "volume down" + power until the hboot menu appears. Then pick the barcode option, and there you can find the IMEI, S/N and MB codes.

---
Tags: nexus-9
---


# Question
Title: Bootloop after modification of "/system/bin/playlpm" file
Modification of `playlpm` file sets my Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini I9192 into boot-loop.
Instead of normal booting, it goes back to battery charging screen without animation, reboots again and keeps repeating this cycle. It happens only at the attempt to auto-start the phone by connecting a charger. Otherwise phone is fully operational.

Is there any option of "reboot" or similar command that forces S4 Mini to come out of the bootloop?

**Note:** `/system` is write-protected in Galaxy S4 Mini and needs to be remount to save something on it. Used command: `mount -o remount,rw /system`

# Answer
You'll need to get it in recovery mode and re-flash it. There's a tutorial here if you need it. If that doesn't help, I'm afraid the only option will be to carry it to service for repair.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: boot-loop, power-on, samsung-galaxy-s-4-mini
---


title: Youtube crashes

text:
# Question
Title: Youtube crashes
I shut my galaxy s3 off while I had a video uploading to youtube. Now, whenever I try to go to the uploads tab, the app crashes. I tried logging out, clearing the cache and restarting my phone and nothing works. Does anyone know how to fix this?

# Answer
Make sure to uninstall the latest update , this could be a bug , uninstall the latest update and reinstall again, this will fix your issue
> 0 votes

---
Tags: youtube
---


title: Android Versions Size Vs Features

text:
# Question
Title: Android Versions Size Vs Features
This occurred to me while updating Windows laptop. Each version of Windows gets bigger, much bigger in size compared to the extra benefits to "average Joe (or Jane)".

**Question**: What is the size of pure Android version starting from 1.0 to current 6.0 (less the skin added by OEM) and key benefits or improvements (for the average user) added in each Android version ?

# Answer
For versions above 2.3.6, you could check the Google Developers page for the stock images for the nexus phones. They could provide a context for the sizes of pure Android.

There is another site i had seen comparing all the features of all the versions of Android. I can't seem to remember the name though

Edit: Found the site here.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: performance, android-versions, operating-system
---


title: Android Connected to Multiple WiFi

text:
# Question
Title: Android Connected to Multiple WiFi
I recently got a new smart tv and a samsung s6. I have an ambitious project I would like to pursue. I want to do some screen mirroring, this works fine but with my wifi being fairly slow any real streaming lags.

I would like to set up a private home network which would connect my phone and tv, this network would be free from any other traffic. I would then require my phone connect to my incoming wifi network.

I want my phone to get media from an outside network and stream it to my tv over my private network. Is this possible? Where can I even start looking?

# Answer
The solution you want is not possible because of both hardware and software limitations. On the hardware side you need a device with 2 WiFi antennas which neither phone has, and on the software side, I never heard that Android supports multiple WiFi connections or antennas.

Another thing is that Screen mirroring is using WiFi Direct, meaning it connects the TV with your phone directly, not over a router or access point, so your home WiFi shouldn't have any impact on the mirroring itself.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, networking
---


# Question
Title: Lockdown pro suddenly stopped working. Is there anyway to un/reinstall?
I had Lockdown pro app installed and everything was working fine until the latest update from Samsung which brought some new features such as battery app optimizing.

Now the Lockdown pro no longer works and can never be accessed by the dialing code as well. I also have the option to hide the app icon with disable the uninstalling option for it.

So my question is how can i uninstall this app?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Since the app has been given system administrator permissions, follow the steps:

1. Go to Settings –\> Security –\> Device administrators.
2. Here, you can see the various apps checked for Device Adminstrator access, just uncheck the app that and Deactivate it in the next screen.
3. Now you can go ahead and uninstall the app normally.

---
Tags: samsung, lock-screens, screen, samsung-galaxy-note-3
---


title: Why apps are launching slowly?

text:
# Question
Title: Why apps are launching slowly?
This issue happens on all of my devices no matter what operating system is on it. Apps launch slowly, however the resources monitor says that CPU and RAM are not busy that much.

For instance, I installed a resources monitor floating widget on my Sony Xperia M2. What I found out that before I tap on a big app like FaceBook, the CPU usage is 3% and there are 370MB free RAM available. Then when I tap on the FaceBook app, the CPU usage started to vary within the range of 50~60% and the free RAM was changing within the range 300~350MB. However the app was still laggy, unlike higher-end Sony phone like Xperia Z2.

Briefly, the question is, why my phone is not functioning as fast as a higher-end phone of the same OS and brand even though it has 40% free CPU and 300MB of free RAM, why isn't it using 80 or 90% of the processor and the same in RAM?

# Answer
> 1 votes
The most probable answer is the speed of the NVRAM (or hard drive).

When an application loads, it needs to read the application into memory - Hard drives and sd cards (but not so much SSD cards) are very slow to read and write, and this is most likely the bottleneck.

A typical hard drive has a read speed of 100 Megabytes per second and SD card can vary greatly but would be typically much slower then a hard drive. I have been unable to find the type of built in storage in the M2, but it looks like a very budget phone (540x960 pixels) so I imagine they have skimped on the speed of the storage on it to keep the price down. That said, if you are running apps from an SD card, you may benefit (speedwise) from moving them back to the internal storage, or investing in higher speed sd card. (A class 4 card is a LOT slower then a class 10 SD card)

---
Tags: applications, performance, ram, processor
---


title: Samsung Galaxy Note 2 keeps rebooting

text:
# Question
Title: Samsung Galaxy Note 2 keeps rebooting
I got a Samsung Galaxy Note 2 now for more than 2 years. Since a week my phone reboots without an error. And when it reboots then it will keep rebooting, my phone can´t startup anymore. I need to remove the battery and charge it a little (even though my battery is 50% full) before it can startup normally.

I already tried to factory reset my phone but this didn't help.

Is there a way to determine why my phone keeps doing this or do I need to accept that my phone is broken?

# Answer
> 0 votes
You don't have to get angry with mobile. I also had this same problem because of two reasons

1. **OS is not compatible with the device**(i installed DN5 ROM on electron-team.com)
2. Mobile **batter's life time** expired.

---

**Why 01??**

When your OS is not suit to your Mobile it will hangs. So when its hangs it will automatically restart your device. This will happen when using FB long time or some high end apps.

**Why 02??**

When your battery life is end, your battery not keep actual percentage of capacity. When you plug it shows *Battery Full*. but in 2-3 Minutes it will get down. As well as battery lost dealing with mobile OS. and it will be get reboot as usual.

---

after fixing those now my device is not reboots or any other problem.

Find your firmware version on Sammobile Website by searching on search field.

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, samsung, samsung-galaxy-note-2
---


# Question
Title: Does Android support the EXT (filesystem) for removable storage cards?
As the subject indicates, does Android support any of the Extended File Systems ("ext", "ext2", "ext3" and "ext4") for removable storage cards (such as Micro SDXC storage cards)?

Android is a Linux-based operating system, so surely such filesystems would be supported?

My question relates to both Android 4.4-4.4.4 ("KitKat") and Android 5.0-5.1.1 ("Lollipop"), as I am just about to buy the Sony Xperia Z Ultra which runs the former, but has an upgrade available for "Lollipop"...

The reason I ask is because Extended File Systems have a number of distinct advantages over Microsoft filesystems, and I do not use Microsoft Windows-based operating systems at all (well, at work I do - but personal stuff can't be used with their computers...), so it's only logical to utilize Extended Filesystems where possible, for the technical advantages.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Yes it does support ext4 from what I gather from other sites and I am doing it right now on my own card.

---
Tags: file-system, ext4, ext2, ext3
---


# Question
Title: Samsung sending SMS automatically on Idea Cellular (although no charge)
I have two Samsung Galaxy Young Duos (GT-S6312) mobiles, both have Idea Connection. I noticed from last few days that my both mobile suddenly send SMS to some number at same time. The SMS log does not shows anything and sent SMS does not charge anything. But the popup dialog of charges comes which says "Last call charges 0.00, duration 60 secs".

This is strange as I checked all application, antivirus, backup, nothing is enabled related to tracking or something. I don't play games also, so my mobile is game free. Still my mobile suddenly gets up from sleep and send two SMS continuously everyday 2-3 times.

Not sure where SMS is going and as far as charges, it is not charged anything so that is relief but still bit worried on information leaking from my cell.

Please let me know if someone facing same issue and fixed on their mobile.

I feel it is related to Idea Network, but not sure. Interestingly the Avast virus scanner does not find any virus related activity.

It is IDEA Maharastra network, I checked with IDEA customer care, they denied for any such thing.

Hope someone will help.

# Answer
First check Settings → for any app called *Idea Power* or *Idea Portal* or anything that you suspect is closely related to the cellular operator.

Mostly in Android devices with Idea SIM lock (CDMA) they install *Idea Power* system app. It is not visible in app manager especially for postpaid subscribers.

Not only Idea even other operators also do the same thing, but in Uninor and Airtel it will be too much.

2 of the most common signs are reduced battery life and while browsing sites too much of pay links and worst ads and operator ads, etc.

See when this operator app is installed it accesses your:

1. Phone information
2. Contacts
3. Rootkit
4. Send email without consent of host (user)
5. Read and write logs
6. Read memos
7. Directly call numbers and send msgs

THE LIST HAS SO MUCH MORE.

Finally in android 99.99% apps can be turned off except these operator injected secret code or app.
So I hope user only has to decide:

If its a second hand phone check if it is secured with mobile tracker of factory default or any tracking app preinstalled.

In AVG antivirus there are mobile tracking installs in hidden form and send email hidden even root format can't erase it which I once also used and got fed up with samsung galaxy young star pro, I guess its model no. is gt5372.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: sms, samsung
---


# Question
Title: Only notifications from text messages are being shown
As the title says, I only get notifications from my texting application but not from everything else.

A couple of examples:

* I use pushbullet to share a website with my phone, but I won't get the notification until I open the app.
* To see if I have to manually open the app and refresh it, same thing with emails.
* If I install an app on my device remotely from the play store, the app won't start downloading/installing till I open the play store on my phone.
* Texting works as expected, i get notifications normally even with my third party texting app. (textra)

Specs:

* Samsung Galaxy S4
* SGH-i337M
* 5.0.1
* Nova Launcher (if that matters)

# Answer
> 0 votes
It sounds like you've gone into the developer options and turned on "limit background processes", which stops apps running in the background to do all these things. The fact that they work normally when you open the app by hand suggests that app is still getting the information it needs, just not until it's in the foreground. The fact it's the whole behaviour of the app (e.g. Play Store downloading updates), not just the appearance of the notification tells me it's not just a problem with notifications.

---
Tags: notifications, samsung-galaxy-s-4, push-notifications
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to get Android 6.0 if you have any Android 5.0 device?
As you may know, Google came out with the new Android 6.0 but it is not available in my country right now. I was wondering if I bought an Android 5.0 device from the store, would I be able to upgrade to Android 6.0 manually in the future?

# Answer
> 8 votes
You need to choose carefully, since many vendors and carriers will abandon devices quickly as they release new ones. So no, you cannot guarantee that ANY device running 5.0 will be able to upgrade to 6.0. However, here are some suggestions to improve your chances:

1. Get a recent Google Nexus device. These are always the first to get new releases because they are Google's Android showcase devices. Check this page for devices that have 6.0 firmware available.
2. Get a device that is on this list. CynaogenMod (CM) is a very good alternative firmware that has breathed life into many, many old devices that have been long-forgotten by the vendors. CM13 is the version based on Android 6.0 and they are working hard to expand the number of devices supported.
3. Take a look at XDA-Developers device forums and look for devices that have unofficial Marshmallow builds. Keep in mind that many of the ROMs posted there are experimental and possible unstable, and this may be especially true of a new 6.0-based ROM.
4. Get a device that has an upgrade guarantee or a device that the manufacturer has stated will be getting 6.0. This article is a nice recent list that will get you started, and there is also a Community Wiki on this site tracking status. However, keep in mind that even if you have a device from this list, the *carrier* may take longer to (or never) push out the update. As an example, I once had a phone where HTC had released an update but my carrier took almost a year to push their branded version to my phone. If you can't root your device, you may be at the whim of your carrier.

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, updates, 6.0-marshmallow
---


# Question
Title: How to disable pin security from Samsing Tab 2
I have a Samsung tab2, and have added screen pin lock on my Tab few days back as I was going out. Now I don't want to use pin lock as security, but I am not able to disable it. I am going to

```
setting --> security --> screen lock

```

After entering my pin my options are to disable includes last the option **None**.

What should I do to remove the screen lock pin??

# Answer
In my case, I installed my own certificate which even on removing was some where present don't know where so ultimately I cleared up every thing and again tried to remove pin and it got removed.

Proper way would be **settings--\>security--\>clear credential** Clear credentials is last option under security heading.

And now u can change your pin **setting--\>security--\>screen lock--\>swipe/none** whatever you feel comfortable with.

Enjoy :D
> 2 votes

# Answer
Go to **Settings**--\> **Profiles** .
In the profile settings at the bottom is an entry for "**System settings**--\>**Lock screen mode**".
You can choose several settings, one of which is disable.
You can disable Lock Screen by "**disable**" option or you can remove PIN by "**insecure lock screen**" option.

**OR**

Turned off the screen, turned it back on and clicked on Forgot in the right down corner. Give Google password and it will change Lock method automatically back to slide.

Just try it.
> 0 votes

# Answer
I also messed around with the lock screen, and only when i cleared all credentials it came to remove the pin protection.
> -2 votes

---
Tags: security, lock-screens, samsung-galaxy-tab-2-7
---


title: Move DCIM .thumbnails to external SD

text:
# Question
Title: Move DCIM .thumbnails to external SD
My phone has 1.5 GB internal memory and it's always full with gallery thumbnails (500 MB) . Every time I delete it for more space after one day it's full again .

How can I move it to external micro SD memory ?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Moving this folder to sd woun't help, cause android would recreate it. For me, this folder is shown as 6.5 GB (the real size was aprox 80 MB).

WorldCAD Access posted an interesting solution, how to prevent Android for recreating at least the db files.

Another soultion, if you have root access would be to symlink this folder to sdcard. You can do this via command line or using tools like Link2SD or FolderMount.

here you also can find some suggestions/solutions.

# Answer
> -1 votes
500 megs seems awfully big for thumbnails. As for moving them to an external SD card, you can't move anything except music, videos, and pictures to an external card after the 4.1 or 4.2 version of the Android operating system. Since thumbnails are pictures of the pictures, they should move. Try doing it through a gallery program such as QuickPic. It's free. On the other hand, if the extension of the thumbnails is something else besides a standard image file extension (. Jpg,. Png, etc,)... Well, maybe you can't move them.

---
Tags: external-sd, thumbnails
---


# Question
Title: A phone with a WiFi signal icon appears on the status bar (Samsung Galaxy S6, Android 5.1.1)
What does the following icon that looks like a phone with a WiFi signal in my status bar indicate? And how do I remove it?

As far as I know, I didn't turn any setting on that triggered it. I can't find the icon online. My first guess was that it was either VoLTE or VoIP or WiFi calling, but I do not have any of these as options on my phone.

The icon does not go away unless I turn off WiFi. Below are screenshots of my full home screen and of the open notification panel.

The screenshot below is of my phone's "Call Settings". I have no 'Wi-Fi Calling' option. According to guides online, it should come after the 'Vibrate' option. The screenshot below is the results when searching 'Wi-Fi' in settings. No call options come up.

---

It definitely is the Wi-Fi Calling icon (even though I do not have it as an option on my phone) -- I tested it now and I can phone my contacts when in flight mode.

# Answer
> 6 votes
In short, it indicates that for mobile calls, the WiFi will be used if there's a good WiFi signal.

I have found it there:

> # Small phone with Wi-Fi coming from it
>
> This strange new symbol shows your phone’s set up for Wi-Fi calling. It’s a new feature brought in by the UK’s biggest networks to help give you the best call quality. If your phone doesn’t have good reception, like when you’re indoors, it’ll make phone calls using an available Wi-Fi network instead.

---
Tags: 5.1-lollipop, notification-bar, samsung-galaxy-s-6, notification-icons
---


# Question
Title: How to create an update.zip file that can copy & rename a file?
Here's exactly what I'm looking for - I need an 'update.zip' file that can copy a file (example):

/system/framework/file-to-copy.apk

to another folder:

/system/

and then it would rename the 'file-to-copy.apk' in the 'system' folder to:

renamed-file.apk

and copy it back to:

/system/framework/

It would have to overwrite an already existing 'renamed-file.apk' in 'system/framework' folder.

Note: The permissions can NOT change.

Is it even possible to do this?

Any help would be appreciated!

# Answer
Actually you can do that by using the run\_program syntax in updater-script to execute a shell script that moves/copies/pastes files while in recovery. But of course, you must extract the files that are to be pasted in somewhere (/tmp for instance).

Part of the updater-script:

```
package_extract_dir("stuff", "/tmp/stuff");
set_perm(0, 0, 0755, "/tmp/stuff/movefiles.sh");
run_program("/tmp/stuff/movefiles.sh");

```

The sample shell script can be like this (named movefiles.sh in this case):

```
#!/sbin/sh
# Backup files
cp /system/framwork/something.apk /path/you/want

# Paste files
cp /tmp/somethingssss.apk /system/framework/something.apk

# Set back permissions (the copied file has the same permissons, but the new ones does not)
chmod 644 /system/framework/something.apk

```

But remember, the EOL of updater-script and the shell script must be the same, in UNIX format, or else it won't work.
> 4 votes

# Answer
Copy a file (`-p` preserves permissions and ownership):

```
run_program("/sbin/cp", "-p", "/system/framework/file-to-copy.apk", "/system/file-to-copy.apk");

```

Rename a file (`-f` forces overwriting the existing file):

```
run_program("/sbin/mv", "-f", "/system/file-to-copy.apk", "/system/renamed-file.apk");

```

For reference, the syntax for Edify scripts (that's what they're called) is here: Edify syntax
> 2 votes

# Answer
You cannot execute zip files.

You can move/delete/rename a file in /system/ via `adb` but you must remount /system/ as writable.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: updates, recovery-mode, scripts
---


title: Deleting unwanted package files

text:
# Question
Title: Deleting unwanted package files
I have a samsung galaxy ace, android 2.1, jailbroken. I had 48MB free space and tried to install a 46MB file but it says that the package files are incorrect or smth of the sort and doesn't install.

My problem now is that I have only 2MB free space and I have to locate where these new files are to delete them with root explorer. The play store doesn't seem likely.

# Answer
Well after searching randomly, I found it : It's on the folder called `/data/cache`
Hope it helps
> -1 votes

---
Tags: google-play-store, internal-storage
---


# Question
Title: Recovering files in Android phone, phone stuck in boot loop
My phone is currently stuck in a boot loop. I tried using minimal adb and fastboot but I can't seem to do it. I have also read in some forums that usb debugging should be enable and the phone should be rooted. Is there a way to use adb commands without enabling the usb debugging('coz I can't). I tried all the choices in the recovery mode except the factory reset. Can somebody help me? I really need to recover the memos that I have saved. I have a Samsung galaxy V duos. Thanks. I'm also new to adb :(

# Answer
> 0 votes
> Is there a way to use adb commands without enabling the \[USB\] debugging\[?\]

There is no point pondering about this once you understand the concept. In order to communicate with device using you need to have adb daemon running at Android's end. Additionally, for successful communication, you may also be required to authorize debugging at Android's end.

Android starts the adb daemon only when it finds the USB debugging setting under Developer options enabled. If it was enabled but was explicitly disabled by a user, the daemon would be stopped. It would be started again by Android should the setting be toggled.

If you've an another device with a terminal app installed and USB debugging enabled, do

```
ps | grep "adbd"

```

You would see an output similar to

```
shell     161   1     4564   284   ffffffff 00000000 S /sbin/adbd

```

<sub>(`shell` is the group name with ID `2000`. This is the same ID that you would see when you get a successful shell session using `adb shell`.)</sub>

Disable the debugging option and the daemon would be stopped by Android. Use the same `ps` command with `grep` and it would give you nothing.

---

As for recovering the data in this situation, keep any hope as long as you've a custom installed. They often always run adb daemon without any complexity of authorization from user. Then you can use `adb pull` to copy whatsoever data you want.

---

Related reading: Android Debug Bridge

---
Tags: adb, recovery-mode, usb-debugging
---


# Question
Title: The category "Other" in my Storage takes 4GB out of 6GB on my Internal Storage, any way to clean it?
I have HTC One S. When I open my Storage , it says : 4.10GB/6.07GB ; Apps: 220MB ; Other : 3.88GB ; Available: 1.97GB . That's after I restarted my phone on Backup & Reset. I did it several times , and it doesn't change. I'm clueless. I don't have any ideas on what could take that space , nor how do I clean it (properly ofc.). I was looking on the internet for a whole week, and still have found nothing useful. I have tried Clean Master. It doesn't make any difference in the "Other" category. Still the same. It is a old phone , my dad was using it for 1/1.5 years , but I don't think it has any influence on the current memory , after resetting the phone.

Only the "Apps" is clickable in Storage. In other words - I cant click on "Other" to see what's inside. I tried an app called "Disk Usage" , and it says: 1)When I click on app storage : Applications : 220MiB ; Data : 2236MiB ; Free space : 2016MiB . Now , 2)When I click on Storage card: Storage card: 10171MiB ; System data... Android... (and many more little stuff) ; Free space 10164MiB...

I'm not worried about my phone storage - on storage card. I'm worried about my internal storage , which is, I'm pretty sure , showed on app storage. The big thing : FREAKING 2236MiB FOR DATA? It has to be Data that's messing me up. Data is lost when resetting the phone with erasing al the data , right? I did it several times , but still , the category "Other" still doesn't change at all.

From this , kind of a bigger talk... well to read it is big, right? Never mind... Again , from this bigger talk , I actually only want to know the answers for two questions : What is on "Other"? and , How do I clean "Other"

Thank you for responding in advance.

https://onedrive.live.com/redir?resid=ABE64B8B54D4B3FA!3407&authkey=!AEzUeDYmxJnRCo8&ithint=folder%2c (here are the pictures)

# Answer
> 0 votes
It's actually the app data. For example, on my phone I see 184mb for Abbyy (that's dictionaries), and I'm 100% sure those 184 come of the downloaded dictionaries for the app.

To remove the data (I'm not responsible for the lost data in apps, because there will be such):

* click on any of the checkboxes before the data chunk name
* click select all in the top bar
* click the recycle bin in the top bar

---
Tags: storage, htc, htc-one, htc-one-s
---


# Question
Title: Where is the backup location from Titanium Backup on a phone without an SD card?
I am currently using a Samsung S6. Today I backed up all of my data with the app "Titanum Backup". After backing up all of the data, I transferred the folder of Titanium Backup to my Google Drive. Afterwards, I restored my phone. Then I installed Titanium Backup. However, I don't know where I need to import the folder "Titanium Backup" for the app to restore the the data. I saw many YouTube videos, and their restore was in a SD Card. However, the S6 doesn't have an SD card. Can someone please help me? Thanks.

# Answer
You can put it on the internal SD card as well (e.g. `/sdcard/TitaniumBackup`). At its first start, *TiBu* will ask you to chose a location.
> 1 votes

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


# Question
Title: Android phone is turned off at 52% battery
I have got a Samsung Galaxy Grand Neo Plus with Android 4.4.4. When the phone reaches the 52%, it turns off and I can't turn on it again because the battery is at 0%!

I think this could help: When I charge it completely, the phone turns off (as I've said, when the battery is at 52%), BUT, when I charge it by... 60%, it pass the 52%.

**EDIT**

The problem was the battery. The solution was buy a new one.

# Answer
> 2 votes
1. I would start by holding all three physical buttons for a full 3 minutes (phone switched off) to fix **battery logic problem**. this resets the battery logic on **some phones** and how the battery talks to the software to let it know how much power it has based on the voltage. After that start the phone (may take some restarts ) and charge the phone
2. Next, eliminate **Battery Problem** by changing battery

A) Battery lived it's life. If the battery is removable, borrow a battery if possible and see the behaviour. Check if it is bulged. Easy way for this is to keep the battery on a flat surface and try to spin it. If it "spins", it is due to battery bulging and changing battery is indicated

B) Battery has a chip that provides phone health and condition to device. Based on this information, device takes actions such as stopping the charge, LED notifications to show battery charged etc. Changing battery will also rule out possibility of this chip having gone bad

3. Fix **OS problem**. Fuel Guage drivers ( part of software in your device) corrupted. To rule this out, i suggest back up your data and with your recovery wipe clean all Cache and system and flash stock ROM (requires root). If not rooted, try a factory reset (deletes data, so back up before this). Our else if Kies supports reflashing ROM, do that. If the problem continues, it is likely that it is not a driver corruption issue.
4. Fix **Hardware problem of device** Hardware of battery charging chip gone bad. Less probability and best handled by service center

Getting to the root of the problem takes time and I would proceed in the order suggested. All the best and do post the conclusion, it may help others having similar problem with your device make

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, battery, battery-life, charging, system-error
---


title: Battery Stats Are Vastly Incorrect

text:
# Question
Title: Battery Stats Are Vastly Incorrect
After updating to 6.0.1 (MMB29K) from 6.0.0 (MRA58R) I have come to face a very odd and never seen before issue. My battery stats are wildly wrong. My stats show 4k% or higher and no battery stat monitor, such as the system battery monitor or GSAM for example can see anything correctly.

Here is an image of what the battery stat shows:

Here is the power manager:

Has anyone encountered this issue and if so what's causing this? I have not found anything so far that would explain it. Although I have not yet had a chance to fully comb the source code of the latest release, I don't suspect they would release it with such a glaring issue, so I am wondering how it has come to be.

Some FYI, Its a Nexus 6 device, fully rooted and not that its relevant but also fully encrypted. Anything else you wish to know, let me know. The apps and configurations have been the same on this device (+/- occasional test app that is usually removed within a day or so) since its stock 5.0 OS (which was unlocked and rooted immediately upon receipt).

## **UPDATE: 12/20/15**

I want to begin with many thanks to @beeshyams to offering assistance and providing possibilities to consider. Although the problem was not entirely covered by our discussion, I did figure out what the issue was because of the decision we made to reflash the `boot.img` and that revealed the problem. Short version, reflashed the stock 6.0.1 `boot.img` and it resolved the issue. Long version, read below:

**TL/DR/RL**

The systemless method by which the boot is being done beginning with M (6.0) was to use the SuperSU zip update to root the system without actually modifying the system partition, making for a potentially cleaner or if you will less hacky way of getting root than in the past using the system exploit. Feel free to follow the process by @chainfire here: \[WIP\]\[2015.12.20\] Android 6.0 Marshmallow \[v2.64\] but simply put it would use a modified `boot.img` and a special version of the SuperSU and achieve the root. However as the project gained momentum and new methodology was tested, it was decided in favor of abandoning the use of the modified `boot.img` and allowing the improved SuperSU binary to handle the internally required modifications. I had forgotten to change the batch file I use to automate the process to remove the patching of the modified boot on top of the stock boot and that's in simplified term what caused the issue. I reverted the boot to the stock and applied the SuperSu binary again to modify the stock properly and it fixed the issue. Thank you for everyone's attention and I hope that this will help others in some way.

# Answer
> 3 votes
I would start by holding all three physical buttons for a full 3 minutes (phone switched off) to fix battery logic problem. This resets the battery logic on some phones and how the battery talks to the software to let it know how much power it has and other parameters. Service center may be able to help you with exact procedure for your phone (please share their recommendation so that can help others)

Few possibilities if above didn't help:

1. Battery houses the chip that communicates state of battery to device including charge levels, temperature etc. That could be bad, though your phone is new, being a defective piece. Can be checked by replacing battery
2. Fuel Gauge drivers in OS corrupted. After backing up data,reflash stock to rule out this possibility. Also eliminates rogue app possibility, though app mischief not likely on your case
3. Problem with hardware (Fuel Gauge chip). Unlikely but possible

Edit

Further to our discussion, saw this on Nexus forum, which sends to have worked for most, though none reported your problem https://productforums.google.com/forum/m/#!topic/nexus/D7er7nMbzHI

> 1.Power off your phone. 2"Press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons. This will put the phone in fastboot. 3.Use the Volume buttons to scroll through the menu until you see "Bootloader logs" 4.Press and hold the power key for a long time (7+ seconds) until the phone reboots.

3 button procedure described in my answer as first option is more elaborately covered here http://forums.androidcentral.com/verizon-htc-one/394469-battery-charger-reset-procedure-htc-one-m7-m8.html

Let me know which works...

---
Tags: battery, charging, battery-life, 6.0-marshmallow
---


# Question
Title: Can my Android device become - remotely and without my permission - a wiretap and get used as surveillance device?
I saw the following article:

> An article in the Financial Times last year said mobile providers can "remotely install a piece of software on to any handset, without the owner's knowledge, which will activate the microphone even when its owner is not making a call.

Is this possible one Android phones and is there a way to block it?

# Answer
Ahh, Schneier on Security, Unvy gb gur Xvat. :-)

## tl;dr

It may be possible, no one can say for sure. And since no one knows if it's possible you can't block it, because you don't know what and therefore how to block.

## But first, let use investigate the statement step by step:

Note that the Article is from 2006

> ...said mobile providers can...

Google is certainly able to do so, if you are using a Google Services enabled device (usually the ones with "by Google" on the back). But basically every hardware/software manufacturer, whose parts are placed within smartphone (or traditional mobile phone), is able to install backdoors in his products, which could by used third parties to manipulate the device. Either because they bought this access or because the manufacturer is forced to, for example by a (secret) government regulation.

> ..."remotely install a piece of software on to any handset,..

That's possible and every time you install an app over the Play Store web interface you use this technique.

> ..without the owner's knowledge,..

Usually you will see visual feedback about the installation process, at least until it's running. But the notification about the new app stays in the notification bar. But no one can rule out that there is a silent install method too.

> ..which will activate the microphone even when its owner is not making a call...

Android apps are able to activiate the microphone if they have the permission to to so. But if the app came with a silent install method, who knows if the permission for the microphone was also silently given?

## And now, how can I protect my privacy?

As soon as you buy a piece of hardware/software without having the ability to verify the hardware and software components for surveillance backdoors, you are lost.

But there are alternatives. There have been attempts to create open source hardware and software for smartphones. Therefore allowing you to review the components for unwanted modules. See for example Opoenmoko.
> 11 votes

# Answer
To answer this question:

> Is this possible one Android phones and is there a way to block it?

Recently, as far back as the start of this year, there was uproar over a small piece of software which was hidden in certain handsets, and was able to monitor **everything** \- the infamous Carrier-IQ. A bit about the Carrier-IQ as quoted from wikipedia

> It provides diagnostic analysis of smartphones to the wireless industry. The company says that its software is deployed in over 150 million devices worldwide.

Thing is, no one really know for certain if they actually did, as the security world got "excited" about it and started to slam-back on the manufacturers - Apple, HTC, Samsung, Sony, to name but a few. And exposed the ruse behind it, all of a sudden that hype fed its way into the Android world, and guess what happened - an app appeared on the Google Play Store, Carrier-IQ detector.

What I was emphasizing, is how the paranoia made its way into the norms of human emotions - yes, a lot of people were really mad and demanded to know - was there a breach of privacy?

By the way, if you look on the main Carrier-IQ site here, there's a ticker that states as of now, 147,918,175 handsets deployed.... (Ok, am not really sure if they are trolling us with that ticker but questionable as it was stated on the wikipedia that is "*deployed in over 150million devices*" heck it aint even there!!!)

Yes it is quite possible that there are back-doors available to do just that kind of thing, and is commonly associated with stock ROMs straight from the factory! Zte had one, and was reported a while ago and its publicly available on pastebin. For the sake of historical information, I'll quote it here in case it gets lost.

> The ZTE Score M is an Android 2.3.4 (Gingerbread) phone available in the United States on MetroPCS, made by Chinese telecom ZTE Corporation.
>
> There is a setuid-root application at /system/bin/sync\_agent that serves no function besides providing a root shell backdoor on the device. Just give the magic, hard-coded password to get a root shell:
>
> $ sync\_agent ztex1609523
>
> # id uid=0(root) gid=0(root)
>
> Nice backdoor, ZTE.

It does show one thing and one thing alone, Stock ROMs! All too often people can be naive in thinking that just because its "Stock ROM", it does its job.

Now, not to induce fear or paranoia into anyone, which I certainly would not wish to do so, it helps to have a cool collected thoughts about this.

The dose of reality will hit home, once you realize how, custom ROMs have a better advantage over stock ROMs, they are compiled from source code and is publicly available, such as CyanogenMod, AOSP, CAF, AOKP; rest assured, you will be equally better off with those ROMs in the long term.

**Why?** For the most part those custom ROMs would be rooted anyway, which will enable you as a user, to have a tight rein on the handset **in the way you want it**, not some fancy-schmancy stock skin on top of the ROM, such as HTC Sense, Samsung TouchWiz, Sony TimeScape etc. And if the developer of said ROM is trusted to be good, i.e. good community feedback, then yes you would be pretty safe.

What you can do to re-inforce the belief that a custom ROM is better than stock any day is this, knowing that the ROM is rooted, you can use Droidwall/Hi-Surfing, or another type of firewall, to block access to those "sneaky" apps like that. That will put in a level of assurance, but having said that, its not about justifying why having a rooted ROM in the first place, rather its, to empower yourself over the handset and use it in the way you want. If you don't like an app, uninstall it, if an app requires root - then so be it.

It does make you think and ponder for a bit in why carriers would rather have you to be stuck with a stock ROM, and a locked bootloader i.e. "rooting will void the warranty", "unlock the bootloader - you're on your own", but there's always two sides to the same coin, if anyone can get their hands on a handset, and unlock the bootloader, it will simply factory reset and wipe the data upon unlocking and reboot!

So you can see how, from a security viewpoint in what's going on and the decisions involved. I know, when I made a ROM for Zte Blade, I was trusting that the source does not have any malicious code, well, it was coming from AOSP source on google and yes, its rooted, and users feedback is good.

There's a lot of thought in what was said, and yes, that kind of thing can be blocked - If you want to be really secure - block the following under Droidwall here,

* Download Manager, Downloads, DRM protected content storage, Media Storage.
* Google Services Framework, Network Location, Google Calendar Sync, Google Contacts Sync.
* And finally, block the Linux kernel as well.

With those criteria selected, you will most certainly not be able to download remotely nor sync either. Also, pay attention to the permissions that is asked for by the app on Google Play store, be prudent and you will have nothing to fear.
> 6 votes

# Answer
Technically, its possible. You can visualize it with Play Store scene: Play Store can silently install (when you send signal from web interface) and update apps without owner's knowledge.

Mobile providers can also do this as long as their Trojan app comes pre-installed with device. They can push and install an app to listen your voices.

How to block it?

* Root your device and hunt down all apps from mobile providers which could do such nasty things. Google can help. Either remove them from system or block their access to internet using Firewall (there're many firewall apps in Play Store).
* Flash a fresh new custom ROM like CyanogenMod etc.
> 4 votes

# Answer
Yes. CarrierIQ, Smithlogger, HTC Logger, and a couple of other things are installed onto the device by the carriers.

iPhones are stuck with CIQ, with nothing more than the mere delusion it isn't there or that they *can* get rid of it when, in fact, they *cannot*

However, you can get this, which is more helpful if you're rooted, but even without root privileges, it can point you to the opt-out screen for any logging service that may be on your phone.

Furthermore, all this news talk about malware on Androids is crap. You have to install said "malware" - but the "malware" barely even exists. So long as you pay attention to what permissions each app you are installing has, you have no chance of anyone leveraging your phone to spy on you.
> 3 votes

# Answer
> Is this possible one Android phones

Yes! It is possible to remotely install apps on your Android phone without your consent. Most of the devices are vulnerable to attacks due to vulnerabilities found in core Android framework.

For an example, Stagefright vulnerability found back in 2015 July puts about 95% of all Android devices in danger. This vulnerability is activated when Android process a malformed multimedia files on the device. For an example an malformed image you receive as an MMS could trigger the Stagefright vulnerability

Check out the demo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7S-11k28324

> is there a way to block it?

1. Do not click on any links received from people you don’t know.
2. Install a virus scanner and keep it up-to-date.
3. Do not leave your phone unattended. Always have a phone locked with a PIN or pattern

Source: goo.gl/rHhMNH
> 0 votes

---
Tags: security
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to install Stock Android?
I have a Lenovo K3 Note and it comes with Android Lollipop with some custom skin and apps from Lenovo. The problem is, in spite of having a decent hardware, the phone lags too much.

I was wondering if installing Stock Android would somehow make it better. So can I get stock Android image and can I format my phone with it?

# Answer
This page has a list of custom ROMS (some based on the stock ROM) for your phone. Since each phone has a different hardware configuration, stock Android has to be modified to suit each phone's requirements. So Google's ROM will not work directly on your device; someone will have had to mod it themselves, and such ROMs may have other issues. Some custom ROMs have been tweaked to have even better performance than stock Android, so keep that in mind.

If you want to minimize the chances of having other problems (connectivity issues, battery issues et cetera) on your phone, your best choice is to research more on each ROM, and flash one made by an experienced dev.

You can Google `the ROM + your phone name` and find out more about each ROM and how well it works on your phone. Please note that `stock ROM`, refers to the ROM your phone came with, and **not** Stock Android.

If you don't find any stock ROMs to your liking, consider flashing a well known ROM, like CyanogenMod on your phone.

Here is a tutorial on flashing CyanogenMod on your phone. Read the video description first to install the ClockWorkMod ROM manager first.

Flashing any ROM on your phone voids your warranty, and may cause your phone to have more problems than you did on your phone's original ROM. Keep that in mind before you do any of this.
> 8 votes

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, custom-roms, lenovo
---


# Question
Title: What specifically prevents OTAs from being taken on modified /systems, and why can't it be shut off?
I have had a constant nightmare with not being able to take OTAs on any of my (rooted) devices. They boot into TWRP, complain about the build fingerprint, and won't install, so I have to wait for a full .zip and flash my systems manually.

What is it that is preventing the OTAs from installing over a modified /system partition, and why can't it be defeated or disabled?

If it can't be defeated/disabled, why can't my modified /system lie about its build fingerprint to fool this validation into allowing the OTAs to be installed?

# Answer
OTA files work by patching files rather than replacing them will a full copy of the new version of the file. This means that it has to verify that the existing files are exactly as it expects or the patching process won't work (or could cause the file to become corrupt). If you were to fake the fingerprint and force the OTA to apply you might end up with a device that can't boot due to some files being corrupt.

Android 5.0 (i think) switched from verifying just the files it was patching to verifying the partition as a whole so any modification (even to a file that is not being patched) will cause this to fail.
> 7 votes

# Answer
In addition to answer posted by @bmdixon

1. OEMs like Samsung have Knox counter which gets tripped once you root or replace stock recovery by custom. There were work around earlier to this, but Note 4 onwards tripping Knox "burns" this information into the hardware. Only way to revert Knox status is by changing that chip on the motherboard !!(I am not aware how this is achieved but it is on record as a mail reply from Samsung ). I expect OTA to verify this first
2. OEMs like Huawei (my current device is Honor 6), allow you to unlock boot loader and cover it by warranty allowing OTA updates if rooted but stock recovery intact. Replacing recovery fails OTA
3. I suspect carriers which "lock-in" their customers will also employ their own means to verify before allowing OTA (probably this is one reason why there is a varying delay in carriers rolling out OTA)

So it may not be a simple solution to have the recovery trick OTA...too many tricks to learn and proprietary ones, which is NOT the purpose of TWRP
> 4 votes

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, updates, root-access, ota-update, google
---


# Question
Title: How much (Idle) time is needed for "Doze" to get activated ? (Android 6- Marshmallow)
Consider a device that was left on a table, unplugged, and no movement. After sometime, the screen turns off, and the screen lock *may (or may not) be* auto activated, according to lock and smart lock settings.

* Firstly, let's assume its locked, how much time is required for *Doze*, working to save power?
* On the other hand, if the smart lock is acting (like by geographic location), keeping device unlocked for several hours (is six the limit, right?), how will this affect "Doze" functionality?

# Answer
> 4 votes
* First part of your question "*Firstly, let's assume its locked, how much time is required for Doze, working to save power?*"

Idle time is **not** specified by Google and I *guess* this is implemented differently by OEMs

Quoting from Google documentation Optimising for Doze and stand by (emphasis added)

> If a user leaves a device unplugged and stationary for a **period of time**, with the screen off, the device enters Doze mode. In Doze mode, the system attempts to conserve battery by restricting apps' access to network and CPU-intensive services. It also prevents apps from accessing the network and defers their jobs, syncs, and standard alarms.
>
> Periodically, the system exits Doze for a brief time to let apps complete their deferred activities. During this maintenance window, the system runs all pending syncs, jobs, and alarms, and lets apps access the network.

**Edit** : This may answer from a user perspective as this is what developers are apparently planning **9 minute interval**

**Source** https://plus.google.com/+AndroidDevelopers/posts/94jCkmG4jff

> Dianne Hackborn**17 Nov 2015** +Petr Nalevka Sorry scheduling alarms so frequently is currently not supported in doze....For what it's worth, the minimum time between while idle alarms will be changing to **9 minutes at some point relatively soon (even on devices running the current Marshmallow builds)**.

* Second part of your question "*.... if the smart lock is acting (like by geographic location), keeping device unlocked for several hours (is six the limit, right?), how will this affect "Doze" functionality?* (and a related question of yours How Doze (marshmallow feature) work during playback?)

It is difficult to answer this correctly as

1. As can be seen from the answer to first part of question, developers seem to be improving / modifying the behaviour of "Doze" functionality and only once it is matured and implemented, one can reach a conclusion.
2. As can be seen in this post https://stackoverflow.com/questions/33018306/doze-mode-and-foreground-service, thanks to Firelord for highlighting this , documentation by Google is lacking in details and developers/ OEM may implement varying behaviors, so nothing can be said at this point of time with certainty.

---
Tags: battery-life, 6.0-marshmallow, standby, smart-lock
---


# Question
Title: How do I turn off Browser Messages in Moto G?
My phone keeps on receiving text messages with the Title as 'browser messages' every two hours. Is there any way to stop them?

Edit: It is a proper SMS.

# Answer
There will be an app called **BrowserMessage** in your phone. To disable that go to Settings \> Apps \> All \> Select the BrowserMessage app and **Disable it**.

Hope this helps you and whoever facing this irritation :)
> 3 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, motorola-moto-g
---


# Question
Title: debugging frequent crashes/reboot with nexus 6p
Like many of you I eagerly awaited the release of the nexus 6p.. unfortunately it has been crashing a lot lately (a problem many seem to have). The first thing I tried was running a factory reset, which solved the problem temporarily.. but a couple of weeks later the problem returned (i noticed it returned after a certain mass update i made to several apps).. so i'm quite certain it's a software problem rather than a hardware defect.

I'm not an android developer.. but i did a bit research on logcat etc.. and I made this command `logcat -L *:E` the output is pasted in this github gist. (here is the verbose version)

Any advice? I've also installed aLogcat but i'm not quite sure how to use that.. i've seen some posts talking about instructing it to dump the output on an SDCard.. but i don't see that it has a command line interface..

# Update 1

i got to install android 6.0.1.. everything worked perfect for several days.. however as soon as i started taking pictures.. the old crashes came back.. which reminded me that the exact same thing happened when i first got the phone.. so i narrowed down the problem to the camera app.

# Update 2

I've asked the same question on the google nexus forum. Some helpful tips bit still no cigar.. i'll post the answer here if i actually solve it.

# Answer
after going through the logs we found this part:

```
fs_mgr: Running /system/bin/e2fsck on /dev/block/platform/soc.0/f9824900.sdhci/by-name/userdata
<14>[    6.585352] e2fsck: e2fsck 1.42.9 (28-Dec-2013)
<14>[    6.585352]
<14>[    6.585390] e2fsck: ext2fs_open2: Bad magic number in super-block
<14>[    6.585390]
<14>[    6.585402] e2fsck: /system/bin/e2fsck: Superblock invalid, trying backup blocks...
<14>[    6.585402]
<14>[    6.585414] e2fsck: /system/bin/e2fsck: Bad magic number in super-block while trying to open /dev/block/platform/soc.0/f9824900.sdhci/by-name/userdata
<14>[    6.585414]
<14>[    6.585424] e2fsck:
<14>[    6.585424]
<14>[    6.585434] e2fsck: The superblock could not be read or does not describe a correct ext2
<14>[    6.585434]
<14>[    6.585445] e2fsck: filesystem.  If the device is valid and it really contains an ext2
<14>[    6.585445]
<14>[    6.585455] e2fsck: filesystem (and not swap or ufs or something else), then the superblock
<14>[    6.585455]
<14>[    6.585466] e2fsck: is corrupt, and you might try running e2fsck with an alternate superblock:
<14>[    6.585466]
<14>[    6.585476] e2fsck:     e2fsck -b 8193 <device>
<14>[    6.585476]
<14>[    6.585486] e2fsck:
<14>[    6.585486]
<14>[    6.585501] e2fsck: e2fsck terminated by exit(8)
<14>[    6.585501]

```

which shows that the file system is corrupt.. i guess that's it
> 0 votes

---
Tags: crashes, logging, crash-reports
---


# Question
Title: Can't boot Samsung galaxy ace GT-S5830i Failed to mount /system (Invalid argument)
I can't boot my Samsung galaxy ace GT-S5830I after I tried to flash a custom rom built for the GT-S5830, if I try and boot into Recovery I get the following errors:

```
-- Applying Multi-CSC --
E: failed to mount /system (Invalid argument)
E: failed to mount /system (Invalid argument)
E: failed to mount /cache (Invalid argument)
E: Can't mount /cache/recovery/log
E: Can't open /cache/recovery/log
E: failed to mount /cache (Invalid argument)
E: Can't mount /cache/recovery/last_log
E: Can't open /cache/recovery/last_log

```

I have tried flashing using Odin and flashing again from the SD card using a different rom but that didn't work! Is there any way to fix this?

# Answer
> 1 votes
There is a way to fix this. You have to **sideload** that ROM. For that --\>

Just download adb (android debug bridge) minimum requirements. Sideload your rom . It may seem to you that you got stuck there but don’t panic, wait at least 5 minutes. After that remove your battery and press (Power+Home+volume up) upto it shows samsung screen and then release. Then just install your rom from recovery mode.

No need to get panic on those failings. They happen sometime.

---
Tags: custom-roms, unbricking, samsung-galaxy-ace, samsung-galaxy-ace-plus
---


title: Rooting issue on my xperia m

text:
# Question
Title: Rooting issue on my xperia m
I have got my Xperia M and somehow now it says "Type password to decrypt storage." I have tried all ways but nothing has helped. Will rooting the phone help my cause? Will it remove the encryption?

# Answer
> 0 votes
There is a lot of information about this out there, so I suggest you try searching first and then come back if you are still stuck. This search should get you started.

Unfortunately, I think you're going to have to factory reset the device, which means you will lose your data and installed apps. I really don't think rooting is going to help you since that will not give you the needed decryption key in itself.

Hopefully you have a backup. Good luck.

---
Tags: rooting, sony-xperia
---


title: Creating viber account on tablet

text:
# Question
Title: Creating viber account on tablet
So I get myself android tablet last nite and wanted to create viber account. I put my cell phone number down, and never received code on my phone. I still have flip phone, not smart phone. Could that be reason? I would be very interested in this product and I would appreciate if someone could help me.

Another question would be is it possible to create viber account without phone number?

Thanks in advance

# Answer
Use voice callback option. See this.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: viber-messenger
---


title: WinSCP for android

text:
# Question
Title: WinSCP for android
Is it possible to transfer files to my Fire Tv Stick with the ES FILE EXPLORER. Is it necessary to root my fire tv stick first? This is not possible with fire tv stick because you cant enable root explorer

# Answer
> 0 votes
As you already use *ES File Explorer* on your *Fire Tv Stick*, you can use that directly to access network resources. The app supports multiple protocols, a.o. FTP, SCP and SMB – but also cloud resources such as Dropbox and SkyDrive.

<sup>*ES File Explorer:* LAN access (source: CNET; click images for larger variants)</sup>

Once set up, you can use that to browse remote resources, and exchange files with them.

---
Tags: applications, root-access
---


# Question
Title: Samsung tablet won't connect to WiFi or blue tooth
Model SM-T230NU Android 4.4.2

Refuses to connect to WiFi or blue tooth. The both switches stay off, all greyed out in colour....

Please help ...

Thanks in advance

Eli

# Answer
Considering that your question is completely vague, I'm taking a total guess:

Turn `Airplane Mode` off.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: samsung, tablet
---


# Question
Title: Can 4G be used on a 3G phone if 4G bands are supported?
I have a 3G phone but it supports the 4G band (1800 MHz) which is available in my area. Is there any way I can enable my phone to support 4G?

I went to `*#*#4636#*#*`, and there **is** an LTE option, but I cannot select it. Each time I select it, the option changes to WCDMA Only or WCDMA Preferred.

# Answer
Is your phone called the Micromax a350 Canvas Knight? If so, I'm sorry, but your phone DOESN'T support 4G, according to the specs sheet found on gsmarena.

Don't be excited to see the LTE in the `*#*#4636#*#*` options, because that menu lists all the possible bands there is, although your phone *might* not support *all* or *some* of them.

The maximum you can connect to is 3G, you therefore can't use the 4G in your area. The limitation is not software-related. It is hardware-related. The hardware component responsible for supporting 4G band isn't in your phone.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, 4g, micromax-a350
---


# Question
Title: Why does my Moto X phone support mDNS but my Samsung Tablet does not?
I have a device that is broadcasting mDNS, I am using this app to view it in the Bonjour Browser: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.he.networktools&hl=en

On my Samsung Tablet, it cannot find my device. On my Moto X, the device comes up in the bonjour browser list.

Why does my device show up on the bonjour browser of my Moto X and not my Samsung Tablet? (and how do I fix it?????)

My Samsung tablet cannot detect mDNS packets. I tried the code here and it failed on my Tablet but worked fine on my MotoX. http://cafbit.com/entry/testing\_multicast\_support\_on\_android

# Answer
> 1 votes
The standard Android distribution (as of version 6.0) doesn’t support mDNS resolution nor announce it’s device name on mDNS yet. So it’s up the device manufacturer to add support.

*I’ll investigate how much effort it would be to write a mDNS client for Android to announce a device name. Shouldn’t be too complicated, though mDNS resolution wouldn’t be possible for an app at the current API limitations.*

---
Tags: wi-fi, networking, dns
---


# Question
Title: Do data-only SIM cards have a phone number assigned to them?
Some providers offer a "data only" sim card. Do these types of sim cards have a phone number assigned to them? If yes, what happens if a dial out is attempted of if there's an incoming call?

# Answer
A number has to be assigned so that the (rather old) system can recognise the SIM.

Just because it has a number though doesn't mean that any calls can be made or received and will already have been disabled by the network.

The provider can add services as wanted/needed though: SMS can be useful for managing routers.
> 5 votes

# Answer
Usually, they have. Usually, "data-only SIM" only have a special tariff plan with cheap data service rates, and is an ordinary SIM from all other points of view.

Finally, it fully depends on cellular provider - it can allow voice services, or it can prohibit them.

So, the only way to get a correct answer is to try.
> 2 votes

# Answer
Yes, they do have number, perhaps, *special* number, taken from a specialized pool of numbers, allocated for certain purposes, such as assigning tailored tariff plan to them.

You might hear of "Numberless" sim cards in some parts of the world, however, these sim cards aren't entirely numberless. You'll **need** a number to actually use it.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: sim-card
---


# Question
Title: How do you make the music volume louder than the highest volume on the Sony Xperia M2
I recently got a new phone and the music volume continues to decrease so I was wondering if there is a way to make the volume higher than the max volume on the Sony Xperia M2, also I have already put the sound enhancements on so I need a different way.

# Answer
> 2 votes
You can try Volume Booster app which increases maximum volume by 30-40%.

Alternatively, have a look at the Play Store search query here. There are many other applications in Play Store which would meet your needs.

# Answer
> 1 votes
1. Root your phone.
2. Install ViPER4Android Audio Effects app.
3. Click 'Yes' to install drivers. Select 'Super Audio Quality' in Preferences. Click 'Accept'.
4. Now reboot the phone and open the app.
5. Click the 3-dot option at top right to open options. Select UI Settings and enable 'Expert' mode.
6. Now in "Phone Speaker" tab, click 'Enable' under 'Master Power'.
7. Under 'Extra Loud' i. Enable it. ii.Select '**Effect Strength**' as '**Extreme**' iii. Select the '**Max Gain**' as required (recommended: 8x)

---
Tags: volume-control
---


# Question
Title: How to delete Group Contact that is greyed out without an access to menu or drop down box?
I deleted my What's App Group Contact in error before deleting members first, however, several Admin members were automatically assigned by What's App to my created Group (now deleted by me). Two of my members had full access to exiting group/deleting members and then deleting group. One member is still seeing Group Contact in What's App Contact List, has access to open Group Contact, under my group name created saw this "you're no longer a participant in this group", just below this, message sent by me and members numbers, but they have no access to anything to delete as its all greyed out.

Q1: What can be done to delete this Group Contact?

Q2: If they delete Group Contact from What's App Contact List, would this mean What's App would assign three other Admin? As this was the original step done by me, hence why it got assigned to the three other members above.

I anxiously await your response.

# Answer
I was the sole admin on a group that I created in WhatsApp. I had to delete the group for some reasons. I removed the members one by one. At last I exited from the group. After that I deleted the group by clicking the options button by the side of menu button. It took sometime and disappeared.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger
---


title: Block Google app on Lollipop 5.1

text:
# Question
Title: Block Google app on Lollipop 5.1
My son had an old Moto G running KitKat. On that phone, I set up an app locker to block the Google app because there was no way to restrict the "safe image search" on that app. Instead of him potentially being exposed to explicit images, I just blocked the app entirely.

That phone broke last week, and I just bought him the new Moto G (2015). Evidently, in Lollipop, you cannot block the Google search app using an app blocker. Accordingly, there is no way to keep my son from searching for and finding explicit images using the Google search app.

I have searched the internet for a solution, but cannot find one. Does anyone know whether there is any way to block the Google search app on Lollipop?

# Answer
There are multiple solutions which can be used here.

# Disable or hide the app

If the device supports multi-user setup, you can can create a secondary user account for your son and put as much restrictions you want.

If you don't see Users under Settings app, your device *officially* doesn't support multi-user setup. See a bypass here: Multi-user option not avilable in Android one after Lollipop update

Anyhow,

* Setup in PC, enable in device and plug the device into PC.
* Create a new user from Settings -\> Users and switch to it.
* Go to Settings → Apps → All apps → find your app, tap and disable it.

If you think disabling may not be enough, simply make the app inaccessible to your son. Follow these steps:

* We need to know the UserID of the secondary user we created. For that follow my answer at How to find out currently running user name/ID from ADB?. The UserID most likely would be 10.
* We're going to hide any app whose usage you find questionable for your son. Execute

```
adb shell pm hide --user UserID PACKAGE
```

Replace UserId with current user ID you found and PACKAGE with package name of the app. For Google search app, it is `com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox`.

Hiding here is akin to temporary removal of app, with the major difference that app is never removed from the system but only inaccessible to current user. You can always unhide the app by replacing `hide` with `unhide` in the said command.

You may be able to skip some steps by using Debloater app

---

# Rely on automation

I'm not sure how your app blocker app really works. It should have no problem. Anyhow, you can use an automation app, such as Tasker to block usage of an app.

* Profile: Applications → choose app(s)
* Task : (Actions): you have range of options to choose.

+ You can send the kid back to home screen whenever app is launched.

    **Action**: App → Go Home
    + You can launch another app as an alternative.

    **Action**: App → Launch App
    + You can create a transparent scene with dimensions equivalent to screen and **use it in overlay blocking mode**. This would make screen not receive any input hence app would become useless for your son.

    **Action**: Scene → Show Scene

    Disable the scene whenever the app is closed or some app takes over, using an exit task.

    **Action**: Scene → Destroy Scene

    See my answer for more info at How to add screen filter with tasker?
    + If the Android **is rooted**:

    - you can force-stop your app

        **Action**: App → Kill App
        - you can implement previous section for your only user in order to **hide or disable the app on-the-fly without the need of PC**. You just would need a suitable trigger

**Note:** some of the actions mentioned for Tasker can be achieved using MacroDroid, AutoMagic, Automate and AutomateIt individually.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop
---


# Question
Title: Misc. files that I can't find but that take up about a half of available storage
I have the following problem: about half of my phone storage is filled by files that grouped as Misc in Android Storage app. The problem is that I can't find these files. If I open the Misc. category there is no files displayed that can fill up that much space (the same thing goes for ES File Explorer SD card analyst).

So the question is how I can find this files. (I have a suspicion that it's some kind of remnants from BOINC application, but this is not helping me in any way)

Storage screenshots (click images for larger variants)

Here should've been another image to illustrate the situation with analysis from ES File Explorer SD card analyst, but I don't have enough karma for that.

# Answer
You can try DiskUsage app (free), it shows detailed information about memory usage and also gives you option to:

* Scan internal or external SD and graphically display space occupied by directories/ sub directories
* Choose files / sub directories / directories for deletion
* Re-Scan after deletion so that you can free up desired storage space
> 7 votes

# Answer
Consider these possibilities:

* Do you have "Recycle Bin" enabled in ES Explorer? If so, check the Recycle Bin folder. Its easy to forget sometimes that your deleted files aren't actually deleted when using ES.
* If you wiped-clean or reset your phone to factory recently, it might be keeping your previous data somewhere, normally in a `.android` folder somewhere.
* Also you can enable to show hidden files in ES Explorer, maybe might give hints.
* ES Cleaner too, run it and see what it finds and thinks you can clear. Most times, it provides the link to the directory where the files tantamount to cleaning are.

I can think of the above now. I hope it helps
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, storage, files
---


# Question
Title: Picture folder disappeared from gallery on Huawei Ascend G6
I have a Huawei Ascend G6, and my folder with more than 500 pictures just disappeared from my gallery. I regularly clean system with Clean Master. I did it a couple of times, downloaded DU Speed Booster and deleted it. I don't know what is the problem. Could someone help me?

# Answer
> 1 votes
What the problem is, is probably this: Your clean master probably enlisted your 500 pics as *worthy* of cleaning, thus deleted them all in the process. Its just a thought, but its likely to happen.

I use ES Explorer to clean stuff on my phone, and I verify every single thing it plans to delete *everytime* I'm about to clean. You never know, it might include your *wheat among the weeds!*

Another possibility is what happens when the storage is almost full. Happened to me once, and witness a friend face same trouble. Storage was almost full, phone restarted, and everything personal info was gone, from pictures to videos to everything I put on. Perhaps one of those nightmares, but only happening to images.

---
Tags: data-recovery, photos, huawei
---


# Question
Title: How do I recover lost data on a damaged SD card that was encrypted by my tablet?
I encrypted my 64 GB SD card using my Samsung Galaxy tab 3. I don't know what happened to my SD card but when I turn on the tablet, instead of allowing me to use the card, I get the following messages... \>preparing SD card - checking for errors \>SD card encryption - encrypting SD card \>SD card safe to remove - you can safely remove SD card. Any idea what"s wrong and how to fix?

# Answer
Okay, your issue sounds weird. Your SD Card is 1) Damaged and 2) Encrypted, yet you want to recover data from it?

If 1) is true, then whether 2) or not, you can't access the card. If 1) is false, and 2) is true, then, generally, you should be prompted to enter a password to use in decrypting the card. If that prompt doesn't come up, then you likely might need to use the exact device used in encrypting the SD card to decrypt. If that device isn't available, you might need a similar one to use to try.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: data-recovery, encryption
---


title: Mobile data on but not working

text:
# Question
Title: Mobile data on but not working
I have a Galaxy SIII (Android 4.3) phone on the Vodafone network (UK). I was using WiFi when available and mobile data occasionally. It all worked fine. When on mobile data, I would see an icon on the top bar showing a little letter H with two arrows underneath.

But now the mobile data has sort-of stopped working. I say sort of because it appears that I can still turn mobile data on, and I still get the little H with two arrows, but none of my apps that use data appear to actually be able to communicate with the internet. I don't actually get any "no connection" messages, instead, I just get rotating wheels and other indicators that they're trying to get something that's not arriving.

If I switch back to wifi then everything starts working again.

Any ideas?

**EDIT:** I have not installed any custom ROM. The phone is not rooted.

**EDIT:** I just called vodafone, who suggested a variety of things that made no difference. Now they've said it may be a fault in my SIM card and are sending me a new one.

**EDIT:** New sim card arrived. No difference. More calls to vodafone, multiple suggestions... nothing has worked.

**EDIT:** Tried sim in Galaxy SII... all symptoms identical. Saw little H icon (sometimes flipping to "H+" or "3G"), but no mobile data getting through.

**SOLVED!** it suddenly started working again. I suspect it was a fault at vodafone's end and my last call to tech support induced someone there to correct the fault.

# Answer
> 5 votes
**TLDR: use a SIM with a different number (no matter if Vodafone or a different service).**

We see a symptom (no net), but we have to find out the cause first, to solve the problem. So let's think step by step, what the problem could be.

* **Faulty phone?**
* No, your other phone (the SII) doesn't work either (using the same SIM).\*
* **Faulty SIM?**
* No, you have already tried a new SIM.
* **Faulty cellular tower?**
* No, you have already tried an other tower (by changing location).
* **Faulty Vodafone?**
* Likely, because I'm sure they have net, and you're sure that they have to give you net (data limit hadn't been reached), plus we've found out in the previous questions that it isn't about the net is stuck between you and them. The only problem here is that you have already asked them, so they should have investigated the issue. But I'm sure they will take a next - more in-depth - look, since all the other possibilites are crossed out now.

I advise you to call Vodafone again, tell them that your phone is ok, your SIM is ok, the local tower is ok, your data subscription is ok, and then there is nothing left to do: they have to accept the fact that there is something wrong with their service. Until that, use a SIM with a different number, I'm sure it'll work in your current phone.

* To be 100% that your phone is ok, try a different SIM with a **different number**. I think the new number can still be Vodafone, because only your current account is affected (your current number), not the whole infrastructure. However, if you don't want to experiment (and your phone is unlocked), you can immediately get a SIM from an other company, as Firelord suggested in a comment below. (So that you are safe, even if the whole Vodafone system is damaged.)

# Answer
> 0 votes
If you've not considered, put a new SIM card into your phone and if it works, then the network is messing up. It might sound impossible but your network is likely messing up.

Try a different network. If it works, then Vodafone's network is the culprit.

---
Tags: mobile-data
---


# Question
Title: What search can I perform to get a streaming app result on Google?
There are reports (see link below), that Google will now stream a small set of apps, when content in those apps match your search criteria. I have yet to be able to produce a Google search that shows one of these streaming app results.

I've tried using the example that I've seen in articles: "hotel right now in Chicago", from both the mobile web version of Google.com, as well as the Google app, but to no avail. The correct answer to this question will look something like:

"In order to see a streaming app result, you must be within the Google App, and you must use the following search: What is Sagittarius' horoscope for today?"

*or*

It appears from this link (www.example.com/GooglePulledStreamingApps) that Google is no longer streaming apps, or is only streaming them to a limited number of people.

I've also discovered (see 2) that this only works from the Google App on devices running Android 5 or 6. Although this feature of Google is only available on Android, I still don't believe this is an Android Community question, because it is specifically regarding how a search on Google behaves.

---

What are streaming app results?

Google App Streaming: A Big Move In Building “The Web Of Apps”

Google’s Going to Make Downloading Apps an Afterthought

# Answer
I think the clues are in the article from Search Engine Land:

> If you have one of the apps above installed, Google will jump you from its search results on Android into them.

The apps "above" are currently:

> * Chimani
> * Daily Horoscope
> * Gormey
> * Hotel Tonight
> * My Horoscope
> * New York Subway
> * Useful Knots
> * Visual Anatomy Free
> * Weather Channel

Further, the article also mentions:

> The requirements are Android 5 "Lollipop" or 6 "Marshmallow" or higher and to be on a strong wifi connection.

So, based on your sample search, you need to have Lollipop or Marshmallow on your Android device, a strong wifi connection, and the "Hotel Tonight" app installed. And it appears you'll need to use the Google app or search within Google Chrome (no other browser).

And if you're not in the pool of people they're testing it on, even with all of this you won't get the results.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: google-search
---


title: A different kind of Safe-mode?

text:
# Question
Title: A different kind of Safe-mode?
I was playing with some Xposed modules on Galaxy S4 Mini phone and then after applying some changes, it stopped booting and stuck on boot logo screen.

So, i tried to boot it up again in safe mode **by holding Home menu during startup**, as i did to solve earlier problems, but had no luck this time! Still stuck on logo. Then after a little bit of googling found another boot option that can be activated **by pressing power button multiple times immediately after starting the phone** until it vibrates by your keypress. Fortunately, it helped a lot and i could boot up the system and deactivate the problematic module and the problem got solved. :)

Before this, i knew only one way of starting Android in Safe mode, which was by holding Home button during boot until you see *Safe Mode* label on the edge of your screen and then all of your downloaded applications would be temporary deactivated. (Although, key combination may differ on other brands.)

But, when i booted up using this life-saving way by pressing power button multiple times,

* All of my apps were loaded normally
* There was no sign of *Safe Mode* label
* And thankfully, Xposed framework seemed to be disabled
* Although, i still got all other functionalities and even root access

What is this type of booting called? Is it some kind of Safe Mode? What Changes does it make to system/services/apps? Is it a feature of Xposed framework or is a part of Android itself?

I've done a lot of searching but found nothing technically well-documented about it.

# Answer
> 3 votes
After doing some more research specially on Xposed itself, found out this way of booting is a fail-safe option to disable Xposed Framework at boot time which seems to be a feature of the framework itself and have nothing to do with Android core. As mentioned in this thread:

> Xposed for the most part is STABLE and SAFE. However, installing an experimental module or an old module can cause a boot-loop. If this occurs, **there is a fail-safe switch to disable Xposed and exit the boot-loop. To disable Xposed, tap one of the hardware buttons (the Power button or a Volume button) on your device, SEVERAL TIMES, during startup.** This means that pressing the Volume Up button, for example, multiple times (during startup) will eventually disable Xposed and cause your device to boot.

It says to press ANY of hardware buttons several times, so i was pressing power button several times! That's it!

Note that you might need to reinstall the framework after disabling it using this method. Rebooting might not reload the framework again.

---
Tags: boot, xposed-framework, safe-mode
---


# Question
Title: Restore "loud volume, long periods" notification in Lollipop
I am running Lollipop 5.0/CloudyG3 2.5 and G3 Tweaksbox. Is it possible to restore the "loud volume, long periods" notifications?
I would like to have the volume limiter that this notification provides.

I've tried rebooting my device and restoring the setting via Tweaksbox, but neither action helped.

# Answer
> 1 votes
> ~~The volume warning was removed with Android Lollipop.~~ It appears that this is in lollipop, but it is either very buggy or *extremely* passive.

Read the comments. Many users found it to be more of an annoyance than a useful feature. If you still want this feature, there are plenty of apps you can download that will limit the max volume of your device as KitKat did.

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, notifications, audio, lg-g3
---


# Question
Title: Inves Wibook 660lt stuck on boot after update
My boss recently went to spain and bought himself an e-reader running Android, the wibook 660lt. He did an OTA update of the OS, but now it's stuck at the screen with a triangle with an "!" in it, with the android logo right beside it. If I press the small reset button for a few seconds, the device reboots, showing the bootscreen, after that the update starts and fails again, going back to step 1.

I've tried recovery, but I can't do it. This device does not have volume buttons, only home and a power button. If anyone knows something, that would be great C:

# Answer
Bajate el firmware de la página Inves. Lo ejecutas en tu ordenador. Bajate el RKBachtool. Pinchas el wibook, instalas los drivers y sigue las instrucciones de actualización

Translation from Spanish to English (credits @Karel):

Download firmware from the Inves page. Run it on your computer. Download the RKBachtool. Tap the Wibook, install the drivers, and follow the upgrade instructions
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Tags: boot, ota-update
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