# Question
Title: What is the earliest version that suppprts iPhone Wifi Assist equivalent for Android?
On my iPhone I have something called Wifi Assist:

> With iOS 9 and later, you can use Wi-Fi Assist to automatically switch to cellular when you have poor a Wi-Fi connection.

What is the first Android version that supports this natively?

# Answer
So apparently Google implemented it in 2014 in Android, and you couldn't properly disable it. Not even today.

I believe this feature is baked into Android.

Windows 8.1 definitely had it in 2014 according to this https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/10652/windows-phone-cellular-and-sim-settings I'm pretty sure Windows Phones predating this also had it although documentation seems lacking.

Wi-fi assist was introduced in iOS 9(2015). https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205296

There are apps for Android that do this but at least this one is 3rd party. No sources says it predates 2015. I have not experimented enough with this on Android. https://www.guidingtech.com/54831/get-ios-like-wi-fi-assist-android-using-speedify/
> 0 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, android-versions
---


title: Whitelist Apps That Use Data

text:
# Question
Title: Whitelist Apps That Use Data
I only use the map application while driving and therefore would like only for this application to be used while driving. Can I define a whitelist instead of manually going through on my apps and essentially creating a blacklist of which apps can be used. This gets particularly annoying when I install new applications also. Can this be done with root maybe? I have Nexus 5 rooted running Lineage OS 7.1. Found this couldn't get the 1st app to work and the 2nd app wasn't truly a whitelist.

# Answer
So I have given up on finding a solely white list application.

NoRootFirewall does work but isn't truly a whitelist.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: root-access, to-do-list
---


title: Page Down and Page Up Don't Work

text:
# Question
Title: Page Down and Page Up Don't Work
So I have an external keyboard plugged into my android device that has Page Down and Page Up keys but they don't work in anything but I think the Chrome web browser.

Is there a fix for this?

This is related but doesn't tackle the same issue Page up and page down in web pages and elsewhere

# Answer
> 1 votes
So I have experimented with this a lot and basically have concluded that Android devices were not intended to be operated this way.

Even Chromebook's running Android apps don't support the PageDown key.

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, external-keyboard
---


# Question
Title: Change behavior of space on external keyboard?
On my PC, I am using TouchCursor, so that I can control the text cursor using key combinations such as:

* **SPACE+I/J/K/L**: up/left/down/right
* **SPACE+H/N**: page up/down

That way, and when using a keyboard with a TrackPoint, everything is reachable from the home row, and I don't need to move hands. TouchCursor reconfigures the space key:

* to act as a modifier key when pressed together with **I/J/K/L/H/N/...**, and
* to act as space, when pressed and released.

Can I get the same functionality with an *external keyboard* connected to a modern Android device?

# Answer
I have done extensive research talking to developers who make applications for Android and the PageDown & PageUp do not exist in Android unless the application chooses to implement this(which is quite rare). The PgDn key doesn't even work on Chromebook with Android apps. The only application that I know of that implements the PageDown key at all are web browsers like Chrome. I also use a pointing stick so I understand your frustration and or desire to have a feature like this. My best advice would be to either VPN/VNC into another computer which has this implemented or use SSH/MOSH to have such feature at least at the terminal.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: keyboard, external-keyboard, text-input
---


title: Stock Android Shortcuts

text:
# Question
Title: Stock Android Shortcuts
So I believe the Android keyboard shortcuts vary among version, but what are the stock android shortcuts?

I have not found a complete list anywhere.

I think this should be a community wiki.

# Answer
> 0 votes
For completion I am posting the typing shortcuts here.

> • Alt + Spacebar: Insert a special character
>
> • Shift + Del: Delete the character to the right of the cursor
>
> • Alt + Del: Delete an entire line
>
> • Shift + Shift (press it twice): Activate caps-lock; press shift once more to exit
>
> • Alt + Trackball-Left: Move cursor to beginning of line
>
> • Alt + Trackball-Right: Move cursor to end of line
>
> • Alt + Trackball-Up: Move cursor to top of page
>
> • Alt + Trackball-Down: Move cursor to bottom of page
>
> • Shift + Trackball-Left/Right: Highlight text for cutting or copying
>
> • Menu + X: Cut text (will cut all text on-screen unless specific characters are highlighted)
>
> • Menu + C: Copy text to clipboard (will copy all text on-screen unless specific characters are highlighted)
>
> • Menu + V: Paste text from clipboard
>
> • Menu + A: Select all text in the current field

---
Tags: stock-android
---


# Question
Title: WhatsApp doesn't open on Android 2.3.6 - says "switch to a supported phone"
Whatsapp say app supported to 2020 but won't open from 2018-02-06

# Answer
According to whatsapp firm :

**Supported devices** We support all Android phones that meet the following requirements:

Your Android phone is running Android 2.3.3 or later.

Your Android phone is able to receive SMS or calls during the verification process.

You will also need a data plan in order to receive messages when outside the range of a Wi-Fi network.

We only provide limited support to tablet users and we don't support Wi-Fi only devices at this time.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, whatsapp-messenger
---


title: Get ADB TCP connection log

text:
# Question
Title: Get ADB TCP connection log
I was wondering if there was a way to get the ADB connection log (on-device), for when someone types:

```
adb connect <IP>

```

with their IP

EDIT: Kind of like with your `/var/log/auth.log` on Linux, where when someone `SSH`s into your server, you can check the `/var/log/auth.log` and see their IP

# Answer
first you need to connect the device to PC where you want to see logs via usb cable and allow the usb debugging fingerprints.

Than you can connect to the mobile via adb connect port : 5555 (used mostly)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: adb, logging
---


# Question
Title: Same app paid for twice due to some error on Google Play Store, no receipt of failed transaction, but money deducted
I purchased a game yesterday, however due to some issue the purchase failed, yet the amount was deducted. I contacted the bank and they registered my complaint and informed me that either I'll receive the money back or the merchant will. Being impatient I purchased the same game later, but my previous transaction was also sent to the merchant, which I found out when I enquired the status of my complaint with the bank. Now I have no idea how to resolve this, I have not received any receipt for the previous transaction as well.

# Answer
* As updated by OP the first payment has been cancelled after verifying in the payments Center
* Since the payment had been honoured by the bank prior to the cancellation (likely), you can contact Google and talk to them and request for a refund (or from the Google Play Settings → `Help and feedback`)
* Typical refund requests time line here
> 2 votes

# Answer
Follow the steps provided by Google support on how to request a refund.

Here's what you got to do:

1. Open play.google.com/store/account in a browser
2. Find the app in your purchased list,
3. Press on the three dots found to the right of the app name.
4. Press on, *report a problem*
5. In the drop down list, pick *I purchased this but did not receive it*
6. It will give you an option to describe the issue in full detail.
7. After filling in as many details, press *submit*

If however the app doesn't appear in the purchased list, use Google's page for reporting unrecognized charges, as they don't seem to havea double charge page.

Go to this page and fill out the necessary info.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google-play-store, paid-apps, google-play-games
---


# Question
Title: Unable to control Nexus 5X with TeamViewer Quick Support/Host
I would like to control my phone via PC. I tried TW Quick Support and Host, but I was only able to point (with blue pointer) not click and trigger an action.

I have a TW account that I used in Host application.

Does the device need to be rooted?

# Answer
> 3 votes
I have found a app called Vysor that has done the job.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Although some Android devices are capable of true remote control, i.e. where you can control your phone from your computer, Nexus 5X isn't one of them. From your computer you can only view the Nexus 5X screen, as you self noted, but unfortunately you can't use TeamViewer to control the Nexus 5X device.

# Answer
> 0 votes
AirDroid can also be used to remote control a device (the functionality is called AirMirror, which is a little confusing).

For rooted devices, this works out of the box (just install AirDroid on the device, authorize root and control it from your browser). For non-rooted devices, a desktop USB connection is required, and a desktop app or Chrome extension (more details).

---
Tags: nexus-5x, teamviewer
---


# Question
Title: Android 7 TV wireless keyboard language switch not working
I've got a **Sony X900E TV** model with **Android 7.0** installed, with **Logitech K400 Plus keyboard** connected to it. My issue with them is the fact that it is impossible to switch the language.

The only way to get the language that I need is to go into `Settings -> Keyboards -> Physical keyboards -> [select language]`, but this cannot even be considered a workaround because these steps are required every time you switch the language, as it only works until you switch the language with `Win+Space`(which actually toggles between virtual keyboards), after which it restores to defaults (**English**) and you have to go through all the steps again.

PS: I've tested the keyboard on **Xiaomi MI5s (Android 6)**, where `Ctrl+Space` works perfectly. Moreover, **Android 6 had the feature to select multiple languages for physical keyboards** and toggle between them, which apparently was removed in Android 7, because you either leave the defaults, or select only 1 specific language.

Is there by any chance a feasible workaround (or maybe a real fix) for this kind of problem?

# Answer
> 0 votes
So I found the answer in installing a separate App called External Keyboard Helper (which has a pro and demo version), have set the language switching shortcut in its options and it worked perfectly fine for me.

However, I still consider it a workaround, and that this needed to be a feature implemented into Android 7.

---
Tags: keyboard, 7.0-nougat, android-tv, keyboard-shortcuts
---


# Question
Title: How to disable autostart of an app on LineageOS 14?
LineageOS used to have a function in the settings to activate and deactive the auto-start of apps inside Settings -\> Apps if I recall correctly. I no longer find it in any setting option.

I'd like to avoid installing an extra app if there's a native function. The app in question is a RSS reader which I don't want to uninstall, but just not have running at every start.

I'm using LineageOS 14.1-20180203-NIGHTLY-titan.

# Answer
Even since LineageOS was known as CyanogenMod, it offered a deeper way to manage apps' permissions than the one introduced by Google from Marshmallow onwards. This feature, known as **Privacy Guard**, can be accessed from within **Settings -\> Privacy**.

To restrict it from starting on boot, hold on the target app in the list that's displayed, then find the `Start at boot` entry and flip its toggle. Even system apps can be restricted this way, provided you choose to display them via the menu located in the top right corner.

Note that this will prevent an app from firing up at boot, but that, if said app can receive push notifications and you use Google Services or microG, then it will be awakened to display the notification. microG offers a way to disable yet this mechanism.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: lineageos, auto-start
---


# Question
Title: How can I keep my clock widget work in background?
I use clock widgets. The problem is that when I lock the phone, all applications are killed (except some system applications) including clock widgets. When I unlock my phone then I see that clock widget is stuck on time when I locked phone. I have to restart widget. Please tell me that how can I keep my clock widgets work in background without being killed when the phone is locked.

# Answer
> 2 votes
My problem is solved. Following link helped me.

http://support.meetviva.com/knowledge\_base/topics/huawei-how-to-disable-battery-optimisation-for-the-viva-app#

I opened Phone Manager, then Power saving, then Protected apps and then I turned on the apps which I do not want to close after turning off my screen.

---
Tags: task-management
---


# Question
Title: Android 2.3.x Gingerbread can't access WhatsApp since 8th Feb 2018
I've got a Samsung device on Android 2.3.6. The message says the version on my phone became obsolete on Feb 24, 2020, but we are still in 2018. It is asking me to download the latest version.

When I try to do this, it says WhatsApp no longer supports my phone, I should switch to a supported phone.

# Answer
> 1 votes
From WhatsApp's FAQ page:

> For the following platforms, you can no longer create new accounts, nor re-verify existing accounts. **However, you'll be able to continue using WhatsApp**:
>
> * Android versions 2.3.7 and older until February 1, 2020
>
> Note: Because we will no longer actively develop for these platforms, **some features may stop functioning at any time**.

So if you're trying to reverify your account, above is the reason why it won't work.

I remember when WhatsApp stopped supporting some BlackBerrys, some were able to change the date of the phone to a few months earlier, and WhatsApp worked! So go ahead and try that. No guarantee that it's going to work.

If you are still having trouble, contact WhatsApp support for further assistance.

**Update**

A friend of mine had the same issue, he emailed WhatsApp, and they replied that it was an issue on their side and that it's fixed now.

If it's not fixed on your side, restart your phone and try again.

# Answer
> 1 votes
WhatsApp on Android 2.3.x is still supported, but the support will end next year. I should advise you to upgrade to a more recent phone, say Android 4.0.

However, using your phone native browser, you can try downloading WhatsApp directly from the developers' site (the minimal requirement is Android OS 2.3.3) then enable *Unknown sources*. Install the APK and it should work.

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger, 2.3-gingerbread
---


# Question
Title: How to enable AWS band on Galaxy s4 SGH-I337M?
Phone stats:

Make: Samsung Galaxy s4 Model #: SGH-I337M Android Version: 5.0.1 Baseband Version: I337MVLUGOH1 Kernel Verion: 3.4.0-4508315 DPI@SWHD7402 #1

Old Carrier: Telus (unlocked by carrier) New carrier: Wind mobile

Problem:

After researching web/youtube, I had bought the S4 on the premise that I could add the AWS band on to the phone with relative ease after watching a youtube video tutorial. (I'm not extremely technical but I'm a DIY guy and thought I could take on the challenge)

After purchasing the phone, I started following the steps in the video and quickly realized that the OS on the tutorial was older than my newly purchased phone with a updated OS. First video I found, told me to use a code \*#7284# to enter into the modem settings (which no longer works for some reason). Then I found a video that asked me to enter \*#0808# (this does work to get into the settings the tutorial asked me to change). The problem is, that after I change the settings from "MTP" to “RNDIS + DM + MODEM”, my phone will not connect to my computer and thus renders me unable to continue with the tutorial. (computer says "unable to identify USB connection")

I'm worried because I need to have my phone up and running before the end of this month because I have to return a shitty ACER phone I purchased temporarily from costco is running out of its 90 day return policy.

I know the phone is already 2 generations behind its predecessors but I'm hoping someone in this forum can help me out!

I've been following these steps: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2291589

Thank you in advance,

Matt

# Answer
In addition to changing from \*#7284# to \*#0808#, I also had to temporarily go back to the stock recovery from TWRP so that I can "enable cp logging". If I don't do that, QPST (the program you have to run to add AWS) simply cannot find the connection to my phone.

Originally I was afraid that going back to the stock recovery would remove my root, and I would have to re-root again before I can install TWRP. It turns out a non-issue.

Just a reminder when your attention is so warped up with this AWS challenge, Odin cannot flash a recovery.img file (which you extract from the stock ROM). I should have known better. After some frustrating moment, I archived this file into the .tar format and Odin flashed it without a glitch.
> 2 votes

# Answer
if you can find the exact carrier 4.4.2 file.. flash it with odin. the phone will take it no problem. then run rndis... but before you can try going into recovery and enable logging and see if that picks it up... im stuck on this problem right now and i know there is no way around it then to actually downgrade and push the aws file... good luck
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-4
---


# Question
Title: Cant install a APK of an pre-installed app (Samsung galaxy a5)
I'm trying to download a APK for Spotify premium but because of my phone service (fido) Spotify came pre-installed. When I install the APK it trys to update the pre-installed spotify even though it's disabled. How do I install the APK?

# Answer
> 1 votes
The best way is for you to uninstall the pre-installed Spotify first. You will likely need to "root" your phone. This site has some apps that you can use to root the Samsung A5.

---
Tags: apk
---


# Question
Title: HTC U Ultra: Turn off automatic software updates completely
I do not want to update any apps automatically. I want this to happen at home when I am not charged for data volume. Are these settings correct for my wish? If not, which settings do I have to change also? I do not care about possible security issues that may arise. I can update from home manually once in a while.

# Answer
To stop apps from updating over mobile data, go to your play store, open the menu on top right, -\> settings -\> auto update apps -\> WiFi only
> 2 votes

# Answer
On Oreo 8.0 and should be similar on Nougat

**Apps:** Play Store Settings → Do not auto-update apps or Auto update over WiFi.

There is a third option Auto update at any time - Data charges may apply. By selecting this and selecting Auto -update for an app you ( from 3 dots menu) you can select apps that you wish to update over data connection

These settings do not apply to system apps like Play Store, instant apps and they get updated even on data

**OS updates:** in Developer options disable automatic system updates and manually update, since these are typically big size files and accidentally downloading costs data

In your case HTC seems to have a different UI ; disable the second option to prevent accidental download as explained. System updates aren't that frequent anyway
> 1 votes

---
Tags: updates, 7.0-nougat, ota-update, htc, application-autoupdate
---


# Question
Title: Prevent HTC Tattoo from losing its mobile broadband connection
My HTC Tattoo loses its mobile broadband connection after a couple of days without a restart. Calling and SMS still work but no data connections. Disabling and reenabling the mobile data connection does not help. Only with a restart the data connection can be used again. Is there a solution to this problem?

# Answer
I do suppose you went to Settings \> Wireless & networks \> Mobile network settings and have "Enable always-on mobile.." checked on?
> 1 votes

# Answer
Smartphones, like any computerised device, need to be power-cycled regularly in order to function properly. Lots of things get cleaned up by this. If you leave your phone on overnight to use the alarm to wake-up, just power-cycle your phone as soon as you're up. It will be fresh for the day.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: connection-issues, htc-tattoo
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to install the Android browser and email app if they weren't built-in?
As far as I know, older Android tablets/smartphones have the Android web browser and email app as their built-in web browser and email app.

But my Android smartphone does not have those. My Android smartphone's built-in web browser and email app are Google Chrome and Gmail. I guess that is because the version of Android OS of my Android smartphone is a bit newer (Android 7.0).

Is it possible for my Android smartphone to install the Android web browser and email app?

# Answer
Stock Android browser and email app were discontinued since KitKat :

They have been replaced by Gmail and Chrome as commented. Even if you are willing to face security risk to have it installed you can't downgrade from Nougat to KitKat (extremely unlikely). Only option left is to run a device of pre KiKat OS having those stock apps
> 3 votes

# Answer
if you are really interested in installing those previous applications; you may download their apk files from reliable resource and put them in your phone SD card or internal memory. once done, go to security options in your Android Settings and check Unknown Sources checkbox. Now open your file Manager application of android phone or download from Playstore. After that open file from FileManager, it will ask to install the Application; agree the terms and install one by one; both of your required applications.

Dear be very sure to download apk files from reliable resource, as there might be compatibility issues and more security risks. And i'll be not liable of any damage to your device and Data.

This is the most easiest solution. Thank You
> 3 votes

---
Tags: email, browser
---


# Question
Title: Howto Install Gapps on Galaxy J3 Pro Plus j3119s?
I Have reset my phone and lost gapps Does anyone know how to install gapps on j3119s ?

I've tried everything but seems it doesn't work in this device

1. open gapps (flash from twrp)
2. gapps-5.1.x-20150404-minimal-edition-signed from XDA (flash from twrp)
3. google installer (ussualy work on xioami china ROM)
4. etc

I'm really frustated, help really appreciated...

# Answer
> 1 votes
One of my friend had the same issue in past, and ii resolved this issue by flashing new Firmware (The reliable and trusted solution). I have made a rough search for you and found following link with detailed instructions:

https://4frp.blogspot.com/2017/09/sm-j3119511-lollipopandroid-august-08-17.html

in case you have nay difficulty in process, let me know.

Before proceeding with the solution, download Samsung drivers from their official website from here and install.

http://developer.samsung.com/galaxy/others/android-usb-driver-for-windows

Thanks

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-j3
---


# Question
Title: Viewingtext messages and call log on synced phoned via google account
I have my google account synced on two phones, I want to view my text messages and call log without placing an app on other phone. Is it possible?

# Answer
Text messages and call logs are related to the SIM being used and have nothing to do with Google account , unlike contacts.

Without using an app to transfer it's not possible
> 2 votes

---
Tags: google, accounts
---


# Question
Title: fastboot does not recognize my LAVA Iris Atom
I've been doing quite the research on this error, but couldn't find a solution that could help me with my device.

Adb commands works fine, but not fastboot commands.

I have tried several sites for the fastboot drivers, in case that's the problem, but it didn't work. (I still have an exclamation mark on Android ADB Interface icon in device manager.)

My phone gets stuck at boot logo when I try flashing a custom ROM and I have to re-insert the battery to solve it. I rooted my phone using the KingRoot app. Does this have any relevance?

# Answer
Right click on Not installed or Exclamation mark driver in device manager, click Properties, then click Details Tab. After that from Property Drop down list, click Hardware Id. and copy first value from the box and google it by pasting in search.

i hope you'll get the right driver. Example:

**Moreover,** once you are sure that drivers are installed successfully, put your phone in Fast-boot mode to access otherwise fastboot command will not work.

in case you will stuck in process, let me know.

Thank You
> 0 votes

---
Tags: rooting, adb, boot-loop, fastboot, bootloader
---


title: Default volume key control LineageOS

text:
# Question
Title: Default volume key control LineageOS
So I prefer how my iPhone works in that the volume keys adjust the media volume.

Samsung has an option for this called "Default volume key control."

Is there a way to do this on a rooted device?

Basically I don't like how there are 2 separate volumes that I have to deal with. I just want one. I put my phone on silent when I don't want it to ring so I'm not concerned about the ringtone volume.

# Answer
Media volume only does exactly this but does require accessibility settings. Supposedly it doesn't drain your battery but I'm not 100% sure.

There is other options here https://www.xda-developers.com/apps-to-master-your-volume-buttons/ I experimented with a couple apps but ultimately many of them don't for example if your screen is off.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: rooting, 7.0-nougat, lineageos
---


# Question
Title: Why doesn't Android recognize my SD card when my computer does?
There appears to be a problem with my micro SD card. It is 8 GB (really 7.4) is not recognized/mountable by my phone. When I put it into an SD card adapter, I can see everything on the card perfectly. Note this this is the original card provided by Samsung when I bought the phone.

However, I have a 2 GB SD card from PNY and it works without issue.

What does this mean? Why can one card be read while the other (which has been working for about a year now) cannot?

The old post can be found in the edit revisions.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There are multiple approaches to this. Not all of them are available on all devices, so you might have to "skip" some. I will list them in the "order of their convenience", i.e. easy and non-destructive things first:

* Check *Settings→Storage* for some entry to delete/format the card
* Connect your device to your computer via USB. If you're lucky, the card will be offered to it in UMS mode. Then use your computer's tool to format the card (take care to not use NTFS as file system, Android can't handle it. To be on the safe side, cards usually ship with FAT file systems)
* Remove the card from your device, and use a card-reader to attach it to your computer. Format it using your computer's tool, as described in the previous example.
* As many manufacturers decided to replace UMS with MTP, if none of the above works for you a downgrade to an Android version before 3.x might bring back UMS support. But that should be left as the very last ressort; after all, a card reader comes cheap. Depending on the device, there might even be possibilities to enable UMS using a hack or a specific app (provided the device is rooted), see e.g. Enable USB Mass Storage mode in LG Optimus 4X HD.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can use sdisk. Sdisk is a scriptable fdisk. Or you can use fdisk. Here is an example for a sdisk script:

```
    sdisk /dev/sdcard/ << EOF
    0,400
    EOF

```

# Answer
> 0 votes
1.Insert it on a card reader and connect it to a pc.

2.Back up your files by making copies of them.

3.Insert it on your phone again.

4. since you already have a back up on your pc just reformat it according to your phone's liking. It should be readable again with no memory.
5. Insert Sd in the card reader again then just copy your backed up files (copy so you can have a back up on your computer as well, better yet try accessing free cloud storages to again back up your files, they're rampant just choose).

---
Tags: sd-card
---


# Question
Title: Stop cursor from moving to end of word when touching text
The default android behaviour when interacting with editable text seems to be to move the cursor to the end of the word you've touched, regardless of your touch location.

This is undesirable in many situations, e.g. if you have a stylus or a precise hand or a big screen and big text, or custom left and right arrows on your navigation bar, or a very long string without spaces.

Is there any way to prevent android from moving your cursor?

# Answer
Future captain me here with an answer! Apparently this tap on word + cursor placement thing is not managed by the OS but by the keyboard app you use.

So here's a config that works great:

1. Use Swiftkey keyboard.

The problem is Swiftkey sucks big time:

* it doesn't solve the question's problem, which is a crime against human competence.
* it always inserts a space after a period, making urls or "e.g." impossible to write.
* it doesn't let you capitalize the next letter after space only after pressing space after the dot, ie if you weren't writing a url.
* you keep accidentally tapping on dot instead of space while typing quickly and you can't change the layout.

The following steps will de-suck Swiftkey and solve all your keyboard problems:

2. Root your device. Don't listen to your "parents". Best security is on rooted phones unless you're really unsavvy in which case it's just as bad as not rooting. (but for this you can unroot afterwards)
    * If you're concerned about Swiftkey privacy now you can install a firewall that blocks or monitors its internet access.
3. Install the Android Xposed Framework and Xposed Installer (may not work (yet) on the latest version(s) of android) (needs root, but you can unroot after the install if you must).
4. Download and install the "Exi for Swiftkey" Xposed module (github).

Just crawl through Exi's settings and you'll find the right checkboxes. It magically changes swiftkey's tap on words and other behaviours.

**flies away**
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications, keyboard, text-input, text-editor, text-selection
---


# Question
Title: How to know if Android Device Manager's erase phone worked on a stolen device?
Phone was stolen, and when I went to wipe it in the Android Device Manager the phone appears off line for more than 5 days.

Today when i checked, the phone was no longer listed in my device manager, does this mean it was wiped, how can i confirm this ?

# Answer
There is no confirmation provided that the device had been wiped as you can read in Google Support (there are are earlier references and this is the latest I could find - last month)

So you can't - the fact that device is wiped also means that your device is not associated with your account and therefore you cannot see it listed in your devices. Also as stated here

> **Erase** Permanently deletes all data on your device (but might not delete SD cards). After you erase, **Find My Device won't work on the device**

(Emphasis Supplied)

Not appearing in the devices list cannot be a confirmation by itself that the device is wiped ; since Google didn't cite this as proof, but yes, most likely it is wiped

Unless you installed a third party device manager app, which provides such confirmation , there is no way to get a confirmation
> 2 votes

---
Tags: google, android-device-manager, lost-phone, remote-wipe
---


# Question
Title: Is there any way to recover data from 2nd SD partition?
From the beginning. I was using Link2SD in order to save up some internal memory, but today I noticed that all apps moved to to second partition (EXT2) magically disappeared. I don't want to repair Link2SD because I'm going to change phone very soon. I want to recover data from **/data/sdext2**, but i can't mount it. I want to recover this data because I change SDCard too. Link2SD saying something about invalid argument during creating mount script. Is there any way to access this data so far? Or I must say goodbye to them?

PS. First partition is safe and sound. It works great.

# Answer
To access second partition on SD card `if it's not deleted`, you may adopt multiple approaches listed below. For deleted partitons or deleted files, you may use tools like `testdisk` and `extundelete` which doesn't seem to be the case here.

## LINUX / WINDOWS

As mentioned by @iBug, you can remove SD card from phone and insert in a PC with `Linux` OS like Ubuntu. You will be able to access both partitions there. File browsers like `Nautilus` and `Dolphin` by default show all formatted partitions in left panel on newly inserted media.
In order to directly mount a partition from Android device to Linux PC, you can expose it as a `USB Mass Storage` device. By default UMS is disabled on newer devices but can be enabled by a little hacking.

**Windows** by default only mounts first accessible partition on SD cards and other removable media. However, if you want to access second partition on Windows, it is possible. You need to make SD card a `local hard disk` drive using a hacked driver like `Cfadisk usb driver`. Follow this link for detailed guide.

## ACCESS 2nd PARTITION FROM ANDROID

Some custom builds of `TWRP` auto-mount SD card second partition under something like `/sd-ext` etc. If not so, you can mount it yourself in Android `recovery` or `ROM`, as you seem to have already rooted device.

1. Reboot in TWRP recovery and use built-in terminal app there. Or if you want to do it from ROM, install terminal emulator app like `Terminal Emulator` if you don't have one already. Third option is to use `adb`, in ROM or in recovery.
2. Find how kernel names `block devices` on your phone:

```
~# ls /dev/block/

```

You will find a number of devices there. On a typical `Qualcomm` device, `mmcblk0` will be representing internal memory i.e. eMMC and `mmcblk1` will be representing external SD card. Though there will be many other internal partitions and loop devices, we are concerned with three entries of external SD card:

```
mmcblk1    mmcblk1p1    mmcblk1p2

```

Here `mmcblk1p2` is the second partition on SD card.
3. For confirmation:

```
~# fdisk /dev/block/mmcblk1p2

```

This will show details about SD card second partition including `size`.
4. Mount partition:

```
~# mkdir /sd_ext
~# mount -o ro /dev/block/mmcblk1p2 /sd_ext

```

First command will create a directory `sd_ext` under your root which you may access from any `file explorer` or command-line. `ro` option in second command will mount the partition `read-only` so that you may not harm any data accidentally. You may eliminate this.
If not successful, you may need to specify `filesystem` yourself what you used at the time of partitioning:

```
~# mount -t ext4 -o ro /dev/block/mmcblk1p2 /sd_ext

```

To know which filesystem a partition has:

```
~# blkid /dev/block/mmcblk1p2

```

There are many other tools that can be used for the purpose like `parted`, `fsck` and `tune2fs` etc. but these might not be necessarily available.
5. Mounted partition will be `un-mounted` automatically on reboot. You can do this manually:

```
~# umount /sd_ext

```

***NOTE:***

1. Be cautious not to touch second partition on internal memory which may belong to bootloader. Or you may brick your phone.
2. All commands used above need `root access` and binaries are included in TWRP. You may install `busybox` in ROM if any command not found.

**RELATED:**
> 5 votes

# Answer
Remove the card from your phone and plug it into a computer running a Linux system (like Ubuntu or Fedora). You'll easily be able to access data on that card.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: sd-card, mount, link2sd
---


# Question
Title: Is there a way to make my tablet turn off when not charging?
I am planning to mount my android tablet to my car with a charging cable permanantly left in. The idea is as soon as I turn the car on, the tablet starts charging, and as soon as I turn the car off, the charging stops. (I'm prepared to accept the reduced battery life as a result).

It would be ideal to have the tablet turn on automatically as soon as the car does, and turn off automatically once the car does. I have found a way online to have the tablet turn on as soon as it starts charging, but I cannot find a way to make the Tablet/Android turn off once the charging stops. Could you please advise if there is an app, or a file that can be added/changed to make this happen?

# Answer
## For rooted devices:

To have your device power off as soon as it stops charging, You can use an app called MacroDroid.

1. On the main page of the app, press on *add macro**battery/power → power connected/disconnected → power disconnected*
2. press on *actions* (found, on the top) → *device actions → reboot/power off → power off → ok.*
3. press on the ✓ on the bottom right of the screen, and give a name to this action.

Now, when your phone is charging, and you unplug it, or in this case, turn off your car, it will automatically power off.

## Non-rooted devices:

As far as I know, you cannot automate this action on non-rooted devices.

Therefore, the best suggestion I can give, is to have the power off dialog show up as soon as you turn off your car. That way, all you have to do is just press on *power off*.

1. Download MacroDroid.
2. On the main page of the app, press on *add macro**battery/power → power connected/disconnected → power disconnected*
3. press on *actions* (found, on the top) → *device actions → Android shortcuts → power options → ok*
4. press on the ✓ on the bottom right of the screen, and give a name to this action.

Now when you turn your car off, the power off dialog will popup and you can press on *power off*
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, root-access, developer-options
---


title: Sim change alert on galaxy s8?

text:
# Question
Title: Sim change alert on galaxy s8?
How do i enable sms alert for sim change on my samsung galaxy s8?

I recently jumped from galaxy s3 to s8.

S3 had this neat feature called "SIM change alert" where you can enter a few phone numbers and if someone unauthorized replaces the sim card then the phone will send sms messages to the phone numbers entered earlier alerting them about the theft and thrives phone number.

However I'm unable to find a similar feature in my galaxy s8. Some articles on the internet state that signing in on my google account automatically activates antitheft features. But i don't see a place to enter phone no where alert messages would be sent

Running android 7.0

# Answer
> 2 votes
I had Same concern, got response fro Samsung itself, it seems they have discontinued "SIM Change Alert" after Nougat update. They have suggested to use third party app as an option,

Find below screenshot of chat for your reference:

---
Tags: samsung, security, sim-card, anti-theft
---


# Question
Title: Enabling USB Debugging on locked (FRP) android phone
I have a Samsung J5 Prime (SM-G570F/DS) that has been factory reset and now asking for Google account.

I've read this can be bypassed if ADB is enable. So I would like to know a way to do so.

As I have access on Recovery menu and Download Mode, should I flash something that can enable USB Debugging?

Your help will be appreciated.

# Answer
Solved by flashing an Eng ROM aka Combination file with Odin in download mode. But flashing just a modified SBOOT is necessary.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: adb, samsung
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to force an app to use cellular data instead of WiFi using android 7?
Is it possible to force an app to use cellular data instead of WiFi, using android 7 on samsung experience version 8.1?

# Answer
Try norootfirewall.

It allows you to blacklist specific applications.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung
---


# Question
Title: No "Encrypt Phone" option on Android 7.0 Samsung Galaxy S7
In order to sell my Samsung Galaxy S7, I want to clear it of all personal data. I did a full factory reset thinking this would do the trick. But, after the full factory rest, I read this online

> ...a security firm has determined returning Android devices to factory settings doesn't actually wipe them clean. Security firm Avast purchased twenty used Android phones on eBay. Through extraction methods, they were able to recover old emails, texts, and even photos.

I then go on to read that a full file based encryption of the phone should make it safe for resale. I plan to fully encrypt the phone with file based encryption and then do another factory reset. However, I cannot find where to encrypt the phone!

I have tried every step-by-step guide I can find online and I simply do not see the "encrypt phone" option.

I've tried from here

> 1. Launch the Settings Application
> 2. Scroll Down and Tap on the ‘Lock Screen and Security’ Option
> 3. Then Tap on the ‘Protect Encrypted Data’ Option

But there's no "Protect Encrypted Data" option!

I tried the answer from this StackExchange question. I went into developer options and there was no “Covert to file encryption” option anywhere on the phone!

In fact, when I search "encrypt" in settings the only thing that comes up is "Encrypt SD Card" (even when developer settings are on).

# Answer
Thanks to Samsung non standard implementation, OP couldn't *factory-reset and encrypt* before selling. They couldn't :

* Check if the device was encrypted
* Locate the option for encryption

Steps advised :
> 8 votes

---
Tags: settings, security, 7.0-nougat, encryption, samsung-galaxy-s7
---


# Question
Title: WhatsApp crashes just after launching without any error messages
I have updated my WhatsApp to the latest version (2.18.46) but it crashes as soon as I open it. I don't get any "WhatsApp has stopped working" messages.

Here's what happens:

1. I click the icon
2. White screen opens, notification bar turns WhatsApp green
3. White screen suddenly disappears and I am left with the previous screen

I don't think an instance of WhatsApp is running as I don't get any notifications also. All the messages remain undelivered.

Things I have done:

1. Restarted the phone
2. Checked network - both WiFi, 3G
3. Removed battery, inserted it again, charged till 100%
4. Force killed WhatsApp
5. Uninstall - reinstall WhatsApp

I don't know what's happening. My OS is Lollipop (5.1) Cyanogen. Everything was working fine. It messed up after the update.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Okay, it has started working. Here's what I did.

1. Remove WhatsApp or any app that crashes
2. Restart the phone \[this will remove any instance, cached process, etc.\]
3. Remove Play Services \[restart the phone\]
4. Now the phone should try to update Play Services \[you can manually do it by typing Play Services on Play store\]
5. Restart the phone
6. Install WhatsApp or any app. Ta-Da! It works.

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger, 5.1-lollipop, crashes
---


# Question
Title: Unable to Downgrade after upgrade to Android M from Android L
I upgraded my **MOTO G 3rd Gen (XT1550)** to **Android M**. After that I tried to **root** My Phone but unable to Root **Android M.** So I decided to Downgrade to **Android L**. But also unable to Downgrade.

# Answer
I got a solution for Downgrading **MOTO G 3rd Gen (XT1550) Android M to Android L**

---

1) Extract the folder \*.zip

2) Enter in the Extracted folder.

3) If "fastboot" not installed

Then you can download it from here Download Fastboot

4) Test fastboot by typing: fastboot devices You should see:

```
<serial number> fastboot

```

5) You are now ready to flash the fastboot files

Fastboot Commands:

```
"Do commands manually, one at a time - checking that each one returns an [OKAY]."

```

***NOTE: system.img\_sparsechunks may differ in number + name - Always check contents of folder you're working with.***

```
fastboot oem fb_mode_set

```

If you want to Downgrade from Android M to Android L the **Don't flash gpt.bin**

> **fastboot flash partition gpt.bin \<---- Don't Do this Step**

```
fastboot flash bootloader bootloader.img

fastboot flash logo logo.bin

fastboot flash boot boot.img

fastboot flash recovery recovery.img

fastboot flash system system.img_sparsechunk.0

fastboot flash system system.img_sparsechunk.1

fastboot flash system system.img_sparsechunk.2

fastboot flash system system.img_sparsechunk.3

fastboot flash system system.img_sparsechunk.4

fastboot flash modem NON-HLOS.bin

fastboot erase modemst1

fastboot erase modemst2

fastboot flash fsg fsg.mbn

fastboot erase cache

fastboot erase userdata

fastboot erase customize

fastboot erase clogo

fastboot oem fb_mode_clear

fastboot reboot

```

---

**For Rooting MOTO G 3rd Gen (XT1550) Android M**

---

1) Flash(Permanent) or Boot(Temporary) with TWRP

You can download TWRP from Here Download TWRP

* Flashing TWRP

```
  fastboot flash recovery {TWRP File's Name with extension}

```
* Booting TWRP

```
  fastboot boot {TWRP File's Name with extension}

```

2) Restart the phone in recovery mode **(If flashed)** \<---- Those who use booted using TWRP Skip this step

3) Using TWRP flash the SuperSU

You can download SuperSU from Here Download SuperSU
> 0 votes

# Answer
Seeing the exchange of comments in other answer and the link provided, the problem is with SuperSu:

Version 2.62 ( from memory) is normal SuperSu

Version 2.76 is *system less root*, which provides root without modifying system partition. My device is rooted with this and I had the same problem.

Systemless root requires different treatment.

First thing to do is shut the device by `adb shell reboot -p` . Next is to boot into recovery, enter TWRP terminal and key `''echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu''` without quotes ( I had read of this in this XDA post

After this reboot into recovery for custom recovery to replace stock. Else in some current devices the custom recovery is replaced by stock. See this for more Booting into twrp unsuccessful
> 1 votes

# Answer
Instead of trying to downgrade, just get your phone rooted.

Phones like Moto G can be rooted as easily as unlocking the bootloader, flashing a custom recovery via fastboot and flashing SuperSU through it. If you're using one-click rooters then just give them up.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: rooting, android-versions
---


# Question
Title: sharing email accounts among multiple clients
I have configured the default MIUI8 email client with two accounts (one imap and one pop), but I'd like to try other clients. When I install, for example, aqua-mail or k9-mail they ask to configure new mail accounts instead of using the existent, system-level, ones: Settings-\>Sync-\>IMAP/POP3.

Is it possible to use multiple clients with the same configured mail accounts?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Yes, it is possible.

If you use POP3 make sure that you deactivate in all clients deleting the messages on the server after fetching them. Otherwise other clients won't be able to download them.

Update: to use an already configured system-level mail account, an email app should have an access to system accounts. Not every email app has it.

---
Tags: email, miui
---


# Question
Title: Treble: How do I check if it is enabled on my device?
Title says it all

By way of background Project Treble was announced with release of Oreo to speed up OS updates by reducing OEM delay . Devices running Oreo out of the box are expected to have it , so how do I check if my device has it and I can expect faster updates?

# Answer
For users not familiar with terminal and such, Treble Check saves some hassle, and on top of that also offers info on whether the device has A/B system partitions (for seamless updates).
> 3 votes

# Answer
Works on unrooted devices also

Install Termux and run

`getprop ro.treble.enabled`

It returns `true` if your device supports and `false` if it doesn’t

With

`adb shell getprop ro.treble.enabled`
> 8 votes

---
Tags: adb, 8.0-oreo, termux, treble
---


# Question
Title: ""Unfortunately Google (or other app) has stopped error.
I read recently about a privacy app that causes the above error to display to keep out unwanted intruders. Does anyone know this app? I remember something about opening yourself by tapping something 3 times or tapping and holding a button, just can't remember specifics. I know from many questions I read about the subject on here that it does happen for a legitimate error but I know I read about an app that uses it as a disguise, so to speak. Anyone?

# Answer
One app that does that, is called App lock - fingerprint.

This app has many cool features. One of them is, when someone opens a locked app, it will tell them that the app has crashed. They'll have to press and hold the *ok* button in order to have the keypad show up. (You have the option to enable or disable this option in the app settings)
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google, system-error, xprivacy
---


# Question
Title: reverse usb tethering works, but no internet
For a hobby project I'm building a system manager for a gaming pc.

Instead of a custom touch screen and microcontroller I'm trying to use an old Samsung Galaxy S2 (i9100). For useabilty I'm trying to use reverse usb tethering to use the LAN connection of the pc.

I've managed to install LineageOS 14.1 with Gapps and Xposed framework.

Via the network settings on the S2 I've activated usb tethering

On the windows pc, a network adapter is added: NDIS based ethernet port with ip adress 192.168.137.1 and the local ethernet port is set for sharing the connection

Via Terminal Emulator for Android on the S2 with command ifconfig all the ip settings are confirmed and the NDIS is set to UP. I've also tried to reconfigure the default network route. Via the Xposed framework fakewifi connection is running for all the apps.

Still the S2 doesn't get internet connection. What am I doing wrong?

# Answer
You just need to **configure the dhcp**.

Open Terminal emulator and type in: su . The `$` will change to `#`.

* Type the following command in Terminal Emulator:

```
 netcfg rndis0 dhcp

```

*The name for usb interface inside Android may vary. It is usually `rndis0` or usb0. Type `busybox ifconfig` to identify the name.*

It can happen that automatic dhcp method does not work. In this case you have to do it manually:

Type these following commands in Terminal Emulator:

```
ifconfig rndis0 192.168.137.2 netmask 255.255.255.0 route add default gw 192.168.137.1 dev rndis0

```

If route fails, try: `busybox route add default gw 192.168.137.1 dev`

> It has been noted that some applications (download in Google Play, Gmail, Facebook.) don't recognize Internet connection.

The following is a recommended workaround:

* Enable temporarily 3G connection on your Android
* Type: `ifconfig rmnet0 0.0.0.0`

*The name for 3G interface inside Android may vary: ppp0, rmnet0... (Type `busybox ifconfig` to identify the name).*

> This will make applications see your Internet connection via USB as 3G.
> 3 votes

---
Tags: windows, internet, lineageos, usb-tethering
---


# Question
Title: How can I get Onedrive to automatically save screenshots to a different folder than "Camera Roll"?
Currently, onedrive uploads all photos from different folder on my mobile phone to the same "Camera Roll" folder, however on windows it saves screenshots to a different folder "Pictures\Screenshots"; That would be very convenient if it was possible to do the same thing on phone.

# Answer
The OneDrive app doesn't currently support this. It looks like it's already been suggested on UserVoice several times, but this one looks to have the most votes, so you can add your support there as well.

Alternatively, you can try third-party apps that support OneDrive accounts, like FolderSync. In the case of FolderSync you'd need to set it up a little differently, because it doesn't have a "upload pictures" setting to my knowledge. Instead you can set up a one-way sync between your phone's camera folder (or screenshots, or what have you) and a destination folder in your OneDrive account.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: screenshots, onedrive
---


# Question
Title: My phone buzzes (twice) but no notification
Since maybe a week I have this weird situation where my phone buzzes twice every so often, but there is no notification. It is really annoying.

I saw some search results suggesting that this is a notification reminder in Accessibility -\> but I cant find such an option in that section of the settings.

Others suggested that this might be apps that are blocked from notifications that are trying to create push notifications but I was able to confirm(reasonably) this isnt the case by unblocking all of them.

Recently I updated my phone, and installed Any.do. I verified that it isnt Any.do either.

I am using One Plus One, with Lineage 14.1, and when I say I updated my phone it is to a newer nightly of 14.1.

# Answer
> 1 votes
After using https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.evanhe.nhfree&hl=en I discovered that all of my ghost vibrates were due to Accu Battery. Some search results had pointed to that but I did not consider because i hadnt made any changes to it recently, but the problem had only started recently.

---
Tags: notifications, lineageos, vibration, push-notifications
---


# Question
Title: Does Android have support for IPv6 tethering?
It appears like Apple has fully supported IPv6 tethering on iOS devices years ago, including proper, native IPv6 addresses on each tethered device.

What about Android? It seems like Android 6.0.1 is still totally missing IPv6 on the tethering side. Not only that, but tethering explicitly doesn't even work at all when you're on an IPv6-only network, unless your phone has IPv4 connectivity, too (which with DNS64 and NAT64, is often not the case -- T-Mobile US is especially well-known for not being keen on providing native IPv4 to IPv6-capable devices).

Has IPv6 tethering support been added since then? Are there any plans to add support in later versions? It's 2017, there are basically no more IPv4 addresses, what's up with this disappearing tethering support?!

# Answer
> 0 votes
It didn't work on Android 6.0.1; however, with Android 7.1.1 on the same device, and with T-Mobile US as the carrier in early 2018, the following is the configuration that gets assigned to an OS X box:

```
% ifconfig en0
en0: flags=8863<UP,BROADCAST,SMART,RUNNING,SIMPLEX,MULTICAST> mtu 1500
    ether 8c:29:XX:XX:XX:XX
    inet6 fe80::8e29:XXff:feXX:XXXX%en0 prefixlen 64 scopeid 0x4
    inet 192.168.43.163 netmask 0xffffff00 broadcast 192.168.43.255
    inet6 2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:8e29:XXff:feXX:XXXX prefixlen 64 autoconf
    inet6 2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:d427:13ba:ZZZZ:ZZZZ prefixlen 64 autoconf temporary
    nd6 options=1<PERFORMNUD>
    media: autoselect
    status: active

```

Note that this includes both a temporary random IPv6 address (used ZZ to anonymise), as well as the permanent IPv6 address that's deterministic based on the prefix (YY) and the MAC address (XX).

P.S. Yes, it does appear that T-Mobile US might as well be delegating the whole /64 prefix to its ME, however, doing a `traceroute6(8)` may indicate that the prefix is not actually fully dedicated to the Mobile Equipment, as the first use of the prefix appears to be at the PGW level, followed by ME, followed by OS X, when doing a traceroute6 to the permanent IPv6 address of the OS X box:

```
 3  lag-109.ear2.Paris1.Level3.net (2001:1900:5:2:2::4a09)  1.145 ms  1.416 ms  1.696 ms
 4  2001:1900:1a::19 (2001:1900:1a::19)  147.601 ms  147.609 ms  147.596 ms
 5  * * *
 6  * * *
 7  * * *
 8  * * *
 9  2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:0:45:WWWW:WWWW (2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:0:45:WWWW:WWWW)  156.866 ms  157.103 ms  157.097 ms
10  2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:7136:9b4c:VVV:VVVV (2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:7136:9b4c:VVV:VVVV)  189.333 ms  201.174 ms  192.226 ms
11  2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:8e29:XXff:feXX:XXXX (2607:fb90:4bYY:YYYY:8e29:XXff:feXX:XXXX)  200.185 ms  300.332 ms  267.247 ms

```

Still pretty cool to be getting not just one but even two public routable IP addresses on a laptop whilst tethered to an average Android device with default everything; like the internet was meant to be, p2p.

# Answer
> 3 votes
It should be available since Android 7. https://android.googlesource.com/platform/frameworks/base/+/7747fd4/services/core/java/com/android/server/connectivity/tethering/IPv6TetheringCoordinator.java

It's working on my Android 8.1.

---
Tags: wifi-hotspot, tethering, wifi-tethering, ipv6
---


title: Network Support Explained

text:
# Question
Title: Network Support Explained
Is a phone that supports the most network bands ideal if you are trying to get the best cellphone service?

I have noticed that for example the iPhone supports dozens of bands https://www.apple.com/iphone/LTE/ while many Android phones may only support a couple bands in 2G/3G/4G etc... http://www.china-prices.com/phone/bands/10024/doogee-bl12000

# Answer
> Is a phone that supports the most network bands ideal if you are trying to get the best cellphone service?

It simply depends on the match between your phone modem (radio) capabilities and the band used by Telco(s) where you plan to use them. Other than this having capability to function in bands *other* than those your Telco(s) or carriers use neither adds nor detracts performance

It is a marketing decision to cater to a few bands which are reagion specific or broader (*International* models). Apple is more consolidated than splintered Android and that could be a reason for support to bigger range of bands

**No**

If you have a set of bands that your phone can support but are not supported by your carriers. Capability has no use

**Yes**

If your carrier(s) (as in roaming) support different bands and your phone supports them, it is good because your phone will work on all of them

Aside, you can see performance in the same mode widely varies within networks
> 5 votes

---
Tags: mobile-network
---


# Question
Title: Why can't the touch layer on the screen can't be replaced?
AFAIK, touchscreen has three different layers: the protective glass, the touch panel, and the LCD screen:

Touch technology in smartphones explained - FlatpanelsHD

However, when an area of the screen is not responsive, in my observation technicians will replace the whole screen, not just the touch panel, and this would increase the fixing cost significantly. Why is that?

# Answer
> 2 votes
It depends on the phone, really. I had a Motorolla Attrix HD with a broken touchscreen, the LCD was fine, and I was able to order a replacement touchscreen by itself. However, during the repair, separating the LCD screen form the touchscreen damaged the LCD (it was glued on way more tightly than the one in the youtube video I was following for this exact model).

Some phones, the touchscreen and LCD screen are sold as an assembly, other phones, the 2 parts are available separately.

---
Tags: touchscreen, broken-screen, touch
---


# Question
Title: I tried starting VPN, didn't set password, but later now screen is asking password. What to do?
I have Gionee P5L phone. I was not able to access a site, then thought on starting VPN of the phone; went to VPN, and then it asked to set any of the security: password, swipe, etc. I entered into password section, but didn't press any password, then pressed back button. Now, phone is asking password, but I didn't set any password before.

I didn't really type any password, as I remember. Same thing had happened before with my other Gionee P5W; but then I tapped on forgot password, it asked me security question and allowed me in. Here, with P5L, on tapping forgot password, it says me on me to have not set any security question and the only option as to factory reset.

What do I do to remove this password wall?

# Answer
In order to enable built-in VPN, you must put a screen pattern or pin code, that's a security feature. So you did put a code, just remember
> 1 votes

---
Tags: password, vpn
---


# Question
Title: Samsung FRP lock - Android 5.1 have access to Settings
Not a duplicate as per other threads, due to the final step, `Go to Backup and Reset and do a Factory Data Reset. As per my other answer, this will remove FRP from the device`. The FRP lock is still there in my issue.

I have tried the methods listed here: How to bypass "Verify your account" (Factory Reset Protection)

FRP lock on Samsung S5 Neo

Android 5.1

Have full(ish) access to device

Using various methods, 5.1 Samsung camera download trick in this instance, I have access to Settings, and the rest of the phone. This is the 2nd time I have got to this stage as the first time, I followed the tutorial and did `Settings > Backup and reset > Factory reset > Erase everything`; but the FRP lock was still on!! Even though it isn't in the videos.

I have now got to a stage again where I have device access, but this time I wanted to enable Developer options to enable ADB and force the change in the settings/secure Content Provider, however enabling dev options tapping Build Number doesn't work!!

Any ideas?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Honestly... I'm not 100% but here goes....

After fiddling around, flashing a custom bootloader (which got blocked due to FRP lock) I reflashed 5.1 stock ROM and did the camera trick for the 3rd time, however I got boot loops and so the phone started up in Safe Mode.

I then restarted the phone to get out of Safe Mode and the FRP Lock was disabled. I had done nothing different except that the phone booted itself into Safe Mode. After Safe Mode and normal reboot, Settings/Build Number taps worked fine whereas it previously hadn't. I believe Safe Mode to be the crucial step to disable FRP Lock/Google verification.... Now need someone to verify.

Manual way here:

* Power off the device.
* Press and hold the Power key for one or two seconds to turn on the device.
* When the Samsung logo displays, press and hold the Volume down key until the lock screen displays. When the Lock screen is displayed, Safe mode is displayed in the lower-left corner of the screen. To exit Safe mode, restart your device.

TLDR; FRP Lock/Google verify \> Boot into Safe Mode, then reboot again into normal mode \> FRP Lock gone?

The only extra step was that it rebooted into Safe Mode from a privileged state, e.g. I had a lockscreen setup.

---
Tags: samsung, lock-screens, 5.1-lollipop, frp
---


# Question
Title: How can I access data on Charge Only mode (Phone's screen is non-functional!)?
I have a Xiaomi Redmi Note 3. The phone was accidentally dipped into the water which rendered it unusable. I left the phone to dry in a rice bag for 5 days and then took it out and charged it.

The phone booted and was working until I put it to charge. The moment I switched on the power adapter, the screen went black and then the backlight came on.

I remember that before the incident, the phone was in charge-only mode and as the screen is non-functional, I cannot change the mode now. I was wondering, if there is any way, I could access, and recover my data before I give it to any authorized Service Center personnel, who says that there is no chance that the motherboard is fine.

# Answer
> 1 votes
There's little chance you can do that in normal system. But you can do it in (custom) recovery.

If you already have a custom recovery flashed, then skip this step. Boot it into fastboot (bootloader) and flash a custom recovery in.

Then boot into the recovery and you can access it using ADB shell. You can use `adb pull` to retrieve data from your phone.

---
Tags: file-transfer, xiaomi
---


# Question
Title: Share location between iOS and Android..?
My wife and I find it really useful to share our locations with each other. Until now we both had iPhone's and were using the "Find my friends" app, but my wife is now using Android (Samsung S8).

I've looked at the "Trusted Contacts" app, but that only seems to share the location temporarily. We want to share locations permanently, without manually authorising all the time, and without annoying notifications.

Is there any way, that works on both platforms to permanently share your location with someone else ?

# Answer
> 3 votes
Google maps has live location sharing, built in.

It works for both, iPhone and Android devices according to Google support

You can set it up in just a few steps:

Open Google maps, in the menu, select *location sharing.* There, it will ask how long you want to share your location for. Select *until you turn this off* and choose an email account to share it with. (Both have to have a Google account to use this feature)

The same is done on an iPhone after downloading Google maps.

Now, every time you open Google maps, it will show you exactly where the other person is located.

---
Tags: applications, geolocation, ios
---


# Question
Title: Sd card COMPLETELY unrecognizable after rooting
Around a year ago, I rooted my Samsung Galaxy Tab T-113. I cannot find the respective rooting thread anymore, so I cannot provide any links :/

I do remember that the thread told me from the start, that the external sd card (Sandisk class 4 32GB, used for rooting) would be locked to the device after rooting it.

The external sd card functioned without any issues for a while, until the device got into a bootloop. I restored the device to factory settings after which the sd card became unreadable, not even recognized as corrupt by the device.

I then tried formatting the sd card through Windows, but Windows doesn't recognize my sd card either.. no sound, no cards in device manager. It can't even be recognized by other phones/laptops (tried multiple)

Is anyone aware of any rooting tools which actually locked the sd card to the device? I'm trying to find the method, in order to find a solution..

Or does anyone know how I can retrieve the data from the sd card? (maybe through additional purchasable hardware for sd card recoveries?

Thanks in advance! :)

P.s: the sd card was never exposed to extreme temperatures or water.

# Answer
> 0 votes
If your pc doesn't see sd card but you are able to hear a sound when connecting to the pc then you have a chance of recovery. Try to connect via USB adapter and first go to your pc didn't management. If you can see your sd card there then you just make it visible. If you can't see through disc management then log in to your bios and see if you can see your sd card there. Also try to use other port. If you can see via bios then you need to create another usb with Windows restoration environment or create bootable USB with command line in order to be able to perform file check command. I don't know how advanced you are in these things. If don't feel comfortable doing this then perhaps you need to ask some tech. If you think you can do it yourself then check first whether you are able to see it as I have mentioned. Also try to create bootable USB with Linux on it and boot your pc into USB with Linux on it. If you can see your sd then just work in Linux virtual environment. Sorry may seem a bit complicated but it's the way it is.

---
Tags: sd-card, root-access
---


title: Case statements in termux

text:
# Question
Title: Case statements in termux
I tried this and failed. Does case statements exist in termux?

```
#!/data/data/com.termux/files/usr/bin/bash
case in "$1"
    start)
            echo 'var1'
            ;;
    stop)
            echo 'var2'
            ;;
esac

```

# Answer
Termux does indeed support `case`, but your syntax is incorrect. This, instead, works.

```
case "$1" in
 start)
  echo 'var1'
  ;;

 stop)
  echo 'var2'
  ;;
esac

```

Adding a blank line between the `start)` and `stop)` blocks is just a stylistic choice.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: termux
---


# Question
Title: How to track a androids location using phone number?
Okay so my phone was stolen and is off locations off whatever can't track. But I do know who stole it and I do have his number is there a way to track his phone?

# Answer
There is no way for a law abiding citizen to track the location of a phone by using the phone number.

Your options are to report the theft to law enforcement and see what they can do. Or contact the person on your own, and hope they give it back.

Both options will work better if you have some proof that this person stole the phone.

---

(I don't want to let you down, but the chances of law enforcement putting too much effort into a lost phone, are very small. They will most probably not be able to go as far as getting a warrant to search for the location of the thief, as pointed out by @acejavelin in a comment)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: geolocation
---


# Question
Title: I cannot remove Administrator Rights from any app
I gave admin rights to two apps I have on my Motorola Moto G5 Plus (Android 7.0): Find My Device; Greenify Automator. The first one I mean to keep it as admin, but I would like to remove Greenify. When I try to do so, it simply won't let me. I try selecting "Deactivate this device administrator" but nothing happens. And nothing happens either if I try selecting "Cancel". It seems like these two buttons are just deactivated. I then also tried doing the same for Find My Device, and it also doesn't work. So I guess it's some kind of bug when removing Device administrators.

Someone know how to solve this?

# Answer
It was *blue light* screen filter that was causing the problem and deactivating that fixed the problem as confirmed by OP .Tinted screenshot lead me to suspect this :-)

For additional details on what such apps do see What does "Drawing over other apps" mean?
> 3 votes

# Answer
It's very possible that a third party app, is in your way. Therefore, you should try removing administrator rights, while in **safe mode**. Because while is safe mode, all third party apps are disabled.

To go into safe mode, turn your phone off, and when turning it on, press and hold the volume down button. When it's fully powered on, it'll say *safe mode* on the bottom left of the screen.

Now try removing administrator rights while in safe mode.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat, device-administrator
---


# Question
Title: Need help. Touchscreen not working LG G3
Here's the deal, folks. I've been having trouble with my LGG3. I initially had blue screen of death but I solved it by putting the motherboard in oven for 10 min.(Amazingly worked) Had to do it often over last 3 months because occasionally the LGG3 heats up & loses wi-fi when I use google maps. In my latest attempt to fix the wi-fi I put the motherboard in the oven again and I fixed the wi-fi, but now the touchscreen does not respond. I get the hardware key control mode message when I power off/power on. Is there anyway to fix this problem, so I can use the touchscreen again? If there is no solution, is there some way to retrieve all my data and information from the phone? Whenever I plug it into my computer the cell asks me to give my PC permission to access the phone, but because I can't use the touchscreen I can't give it permission.

# Answer
To answer the part about using the phone even though the touchscreen doesn't work:

You can use an OTG cable, to plug a computer mouse into your phone and you will then be able to navigate through your phone with it. This way, you'll be able to allow your phone to connect to your computer.

Here's an OTG cable that will allow you to connect your phone to the computer while having the mouse connected.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: touchscreen, bugs, lg-g3
---


# Question
Title: Why doesn't my Android 7.0 smartphone have Ambient display?
I'm trying to figure out why my Android smartphone isn't showing notification on the lock screen when I receive a new Skype message. After some researchings, I found that it seems to have something to do with a featured called "Ambient display".

As this article explains, Ambient display is a feature introduced on Lollipop (Android 5.0) and above, and it wakes the device and light up the display for a few seconds when new notifications arrive.

My Android version is Nougat (Android 7.0) so it is supposed to have Ambient display. But after I followed the instruction of that article and went to Setting \> Display, I cannot find any option called Ambient display.

Why doesn't my Android 7.0 smartphone have Ambient display?

== Edit ==

My device is CAT S41.

# Answer
* Your device doesn't have it as per the manual you can download from here
* But it does the Ambient light sensor as mentioned here

Reasons for not enabling it are best known to OEM and you can ascertain from them and also request for inclusion in future updates (unlikely they would heed your request)

**Edit**

As suspected it doesn't support. Chat screenshots
> 2 votes

# Answer
To answer your question what you need to do is in the settings go to "My device" press "Lock screen" then "Screen lock" as if you are going to change your password/code etc. then highlight "Show all content" that will make all notifications appear when you turn on your phone even if you don't unlock it.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: notifications, 7.0-nougat
---


title: Permissions to run any app

text:
# Question
Title: Permissions to run any app
I am looking for possibility to run only:

* phone
* chrome
* camera
* music player

on Android device. I want to check app first before I decide to give permission to run it. I want to run Phone app but I want to block SMS app and all other messaging apps.

How can I set it up ?

The purpose is to give the smartfone to the kid but with very limited options, so it's not using messaging and other chat apps , the only way of communication is just phone call but also I want her to have a Web Browser and phone Contact list, Camera and some Music apps so she can use it as a player anytime.

No distracting apps loaded with ads, no texting, no notifications.

Please help with the simplest solution for that.

Thank you

# Answer
You can use kiosk mode for that. The simplest way to set up kiosk-mode on Android is to use Google's Android Management API which works for any Android devices running Android 5.1 or above.

To lock the device on one app, or on multiple app, you define a kiosk policy like below, it will disable the navigation buttons (sample copied from Create a policy):

```
"applications": [
 {
   "packageName": "com.example.app",
   "installType": "FORCE_INSTALLED",
   "lockTaskAllowed": true,
   "defaultPermissionPolicy": "GRANT",
 },
"persistentPreferredActivities": [
  {
    "receiverActivity": "com.example.app/.com.example.app.MainActivity",
    "actions": [
      "android.intent.action.MAIN"
    ],
    "categories": [
      "android.intent.category.HOME",
      "android.intent.category.DEFAULT"
    ]
  }
]

```
> 1 votes

---
Tags: kiosk-mode
---


# Question
Title: How can I change my pictures' and videos' date on my phone by their filenames?
Yesterday, I moved a bunch of old pictures and videos to my phone, using a FTP server I installed on my phone. Everything went fine, but today I discovered that the date of all the copied photos and videos was set to yesterday. As a result, my photos and videos are now showing up in the wrong order in the Gallery app.

(Click image to enlarge)

Luckily, the date and time is still preserved in the filenames. Right now, I want to restore the photos' and videos' date using their filenames.

I'm interested in a way to do so. I don't really care whether it's by using an app or script or something else.

I'm aware of the fact that I can copy the files from my computer to the phone again using a different protocol, but that is not what I'm looking for.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I ended up writing a rather dirty script to do this. For this to work, I'm assuming you have a rooted device, and the directory that contains the pictures and videos is `/sdcard/DCIM/Camera`. If otherwise, change the script.

1. Download BusyBox and install it. This is needed for executing Linux shell commands.
2. Create a script called `script.sh`, containing this block of code, and put it on the root of your sd card.

```
cd DCIM/Camera
echo "Navigated to `pwd`"

ls

for f in *.jpg *.3gp *.m4v
do

  [ -e $f ] || continue    ## testing if the file exists
  NEWDATE=`echo $f | sed 's|IMG_||g' | sed 's|VID_||g' | sed 's|_||g' | \
  sed 's|.3gp||g'  | sed 's|.m4v||g' | sed 's|.jpg||g' | sed 's|........|&\.|g'`

  echo "Touching date $NEWDATE into $f..."

  touch -t "$NEWDATE" "$f" ## using touch to insert the new date into the file

done

```
3. Start adb shell, and execute:

```
su
mount -o remount rw /sdcard

```

to make sure you can actually edit the files
4. Move to your sd card:

```
cd /sdcard

```
5. Execute the shell script:

```
sh script.sh

```
6. Now start the Gallery app, and wait. Especially if you have a large file collection, it may take Android a while to sort everything and update the cache.

# Answer
> 1 votes
If the EXIF data is correct, you can use jhead. Note that this only works for JPEG files.

First, check if the files still have correct EXIF data using:

```
jhead <file>

```

Then use jhead's `-ft` option:

> `-ft` Sets the file's system time stamp to what is stored in the Exif header.

```
jhead *.jpg

```

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can easily change timestamp of **images** with many image viewers. For example in FastStone Viewer: *Tools -\> Change Timestamp* -\> choose the creation date from EXIF. You can select all your images before and apply this function on all of them at once.

My only idea about videos is a script, that parses a name and sets the file attribute.

# Answer
> 0 votes
This is an app you can make yourself, or I can do it for you if you so wish. It involves file manipulation using the Java File API or Unix shell tools, whichever you prefer. I think that if you have any programming experience at all the Java API documentation is a good place to start. Or, if you have Windows, you can use an extension to Windows explorer called QTTabbar (qttabbar.sourceforge.net) which has an option to copy files while preserving the last modified date. I suggest copying the files from your computer to the phone using a USB cable.

---
Tags: photos, file-management, scripts, ftp, exif
---


title: Facebook - Comment as Page

text:
# Question
Title: Facebook - Comment as Page
When on my desktop browser, I am given the option when posting on somebody else's page to comment as myself or as one of the pages I have. But on my Galaxy S7, there seems to be no way to do this. If I use the Facebook app, the option to "Comment as" is not even displayed. If I open up Facebook on my phone, on Chrome or on Microsoft Edge for Android, the option to "Comment as" does display. But as soon as you click your page, the checkmark automatically goes back to your personal profile. Even tried clicking on the "Desktop Site" option in Chrome, but this does nothing.

Is there anyway to do this?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Actually just tried installing Dolphin and the "Comment As" worked as expected. Must be some sort of glitch with Chrome and Edge for Android. I suppose it would be nice to know why these mobile browsers don't work though, or if there is a fix for them.

---
Tags: chrome-for-android, facebook
---


# Question
Title: A contact can not be found by name in dialer but exists in contacts
There is a contact in my contacts which can't be found by name in dialer, but if type her number in the dialer the name appears. All my contacts are stored in my Google account.

How can I solve this issue?

My phone uses Android 7.0 (Samsung Galaxy Note 5)

# Answer
> 4 votes
I had the same problem with Huawei P10, but it seems I could solve it. Within "Contacts" there is an option called "organize contacts" and within that "Rebuild index data". I tapped on it and when rebuilding completed (within a couple of minutes) the feature of getting a list of contacts as a string, contained by their name, is being typed in worked again.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Check if you has enable the option "All contacts" in **Contacts to display**.

To check this, open the contacts. Select the three dots on the top right, and select **"Contacts to display"**. Here you can select what contacts account you want see in your contact list.

Verifiy if your phone contact is here and later search with the dial.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I have the same issue. Example: I have a dozen "Adam"s in my contacts, but the dialer won't find them. The only workaround I found is to type "Ádám" or something similar with strange vowels, then it finds them. (I have a Vodafone Smart Prime 7 with Marshmallow, and I have two languages set up in google keyboard, never had this with earlier android versions or different phone.)

# Answer
> 0 votes
Try to un-link contacts and it will show them.It is something broken when you link some contacts from different sources and accounts. Could not find a pattern but this solve the issue.

# Answer
> 0 votes
i had the same problem in my Le Eco 2 phone and i just did very simple thing 1st export all your contact to phone storage then delete all your contacts and them import back all contacts from your phone storage. This worked for me and i believe it will work in all android phones.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I myself had the same problem with my Huawei P10. Read some answers and found, in the Contacts section the 3 dots in the right lower corner of the screen. Pressed them and then again pressed Organise Contacts. There you will find the last option - Rebuild index data. By selecting that option I fixed my problem. Great for all my contacts to be back in the Dialer !

---
Tags: contacts, phone-app
---


# Question
Title: Issues with gmail not recognising Google Play services
I have a tablet that came with **no** Google (suite) applications however I managed to install them manually and are working pretty fine. The only issue is with **Gmail** application which seems to have problem with Google play services.

Everytime I open the Gmail application it shows a rather awkward, uncommon error meassage that reads: **`Gmail relies on Google Play services, which is not supported by your device`**. Contact the manufacturer for assistance\` and **I can't sync new emails or send new mails.**

In my opinion this is a false alert, since other Google applications, work well and seem to interact well with the Google play services.

Previously to solve this issue with reference to Gmail, I have ditched Google play services in support of microG which works well with Gmail (version 6.4120760496) (as in I can sync new inbox messages and send mails from within the app).

However microG still misses some important aspects which is why I tried to switch to using default Google Play services implementation.

Things I have tried to resolve the issue:

* clearing cache/data for Gmail, Google Play services, Google service framework
* factory rest
* ROM flashing (initally works but after some period of use the error shows up again)
* Updating to latest Google Play services
* Wiping cache
* Unistalling and reinstalling Gmail (initially works but error starts showing after some time)

Any way to fix this?

# Answer
I believe it might not be a false alert... Your tablet may not be certified for Google Play, and that's probably why you are seeing this message.

Try this:

> On your computer browser, go to the Google Play Services app page on the Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...roid.gms&hl=en. Click the Installed button, and see if you can select your RCA tablet to install to.

Got it from here
> 1 votes

---
Tags: gmail, huawei, google-play-services
---


# Question
Title: How can I access veryfit app database on my device?
I have installed VeryFit2.0 app on my mobile.I want to see previous days heart beat data but there is no option.Is there are way by which I can get in to the database of the app as I know its an offline app ?

# Answer
Responding about the database location: The database on the sd card looks like a backup of sorts. The real database is found in the system : `System/data/data/com.veryfit/multi`
I found it using android studio. However if your phone is not rooted you can't access the directory. But if you use adb you can create a backup of that folder on your computer: `adb backup -noapk com.veryfit.multi`
Once you have the backup.ab you need to unpack it. I used Android Backup Extractor . That will give you a .tar file that you can open and explore the database using sqlite3
Links where I found this info:
**access data inside data/data/** https://stackoverflow.com/questions/13006315/how-to-access-data-data-folder-in-android-device

**extracting an ab file** https://stackoverflow.com/questions/18533567/how-to-extract-or-unpack-an-ab-file-android-backup-file
> 5 votes

# Answer
From the Reference Guide PDF: You can also select to see a previous day’s activity by selecting the “Down” arrow below “Today”. This will allow you to then select a previous day to review those stats. To close this option, just select anywhere on the screen for that information to go away

Another option would be to use the "Share" icon in the upper left to send the data to an external source for later review.

http://www.ktipromo.com/Fitness\_Activity\_Tracker\_Reference\_Guide.pdf
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, sqlite
---


title: Port forwarding during USB tethering

text:
# Question
Title: Port forwarding during USB tethering
How can I enable port forwarding during USB tethering?

I know there are plenty of apps available for this. but i want to know is there any method available to perform this without installing an app and also without rooting the device? Target machine is running with Android 4.0.4, obviously not rooted. Thank you.

P.S. I am trying to host a server on a PC connected to internet via Android device(USB tethered). I want my Android device to forward incoming TCP requests to particular port on the host machine.

# Answer
> 3 votes
There are 2 adb commands:

```
adb forward
adb reverse

```

As you mentioned in the comment, you are probably looking for `adb reverse` which works like this:

```
adb reverse tcp:<remote> tcp:<local>

```

Where `<remote>` will be TCP port on your Android phone and `<local>` the TCP port on your host computer.

---
Tags: tethering, wifi-tethering, usb-tethering
---


# Question
Title: Why does one type of tethering obstruct MTP while another doesn't?
When I use the native USB tethering function of my phone, it makes MTP stop working. I can't use both MTP and tether both at the same time.

However, when I USB tether via ClockworkMod Tether, I can still use MTP even while tethering.

What is the technical reason for this difference? If it's technically possible to tether and use MTP at the same time, why is that not typically enabled in the native functionality of the phone?

I use OS X, so by MTP I mean Android File Transfer. But I think this works the same way on Windows and Linux too.

# Answer
> 2 votes
It's probably because ClockworkMod Tether is using a different USB mode (`getprop sys.usb.config`) which has MTP mode enabled too.

native USB tethering: sys.usb.state = rndis,adb (where rndis is the internet tethering interface)

ClockworkMod Tether: sys.usb.state = rndis,adb,mtp

You could try to enforce this yourself when using native tethering by doing this:

```
setprop sys.usb.config rndis,adb,mtp

```

But this could require root on your phone.

---
Tags: usb, tethering, mtp, macos, asus-zenfone-2
---


# Question
Title: ro.adb.secure=0 device still shows as unauthorized over adb Windows 10
I recently purchased a tablet that is a cheap allwinner a33 based Chinese product. I wanted to connect to it over adb but the RSA key popup would not come up.

The build.prop shows the ro.adb.secure=0 which should mean that the device requires no rsa authentication but my Windows 10 machine still shows the device as unauthorized.

How do I get the device authorized so I can use adb?

I have no root access and would need adb to root.

# Answer
I don't think `ro.adb.secure` is the reason why your phones shows up as *unauthorized*.

`ro.adb.secure` is a switch to allow adb to launch at boot (or not). relevant discussion.

Your problem sounds more like a local problem with your adb setup on your laptop. You should try the following steps:

* download/install correct adb drivers for your linux/windows machine, which are released for this specific chipset (allwinner a33), possibly you won't find much, but something that is compatible hopefully
* try `lsusb` (linux) to find the USB vendor/product ID for the tablet and search for compatible adb drivers
* having the vendor and product ID you should be able to understand whether the USB mode for adb is actually enabled on the phone, i.e. if the phone runs USB with `mtp,adb` / `ptp,adb` or with just `ptp` etc.

example with a Moto G4 Play (msm8916):

```
shell@harpia:/ $ getprop sys.usb.config
mtp,adb

pi@pi:~ $ lsusb
Bus 001 Device 007: ID 22b8:2e76 Motorola PCS
................
shell@harpia:/ $ getprop sys.usb.config
ptp,adb

pi@pi:~ $ lsusb
Bus 001 Device 009: ID 22b8:2e84 Motorola PCS

```

depending on the USB mode selected on the android phone, the USB product ID is different.

All that is closely related to **udev rules** (link to relevant discussion), although setting up or manipulating udev rules never solved my problems (and my Raspbian 9 doesn't even have the file /etc/udev/rules.d/51-android.rules).
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, adb
---


# Question
Title: How do I use Tasker to download web images and set them as my background?
I recently purchased Tasker after having it recommended to me by several people. I am trying to take an image from a website (Unsplash Source) and set it as my background daily. As I am relatively new to using Tasker I tried looking for a tutorial on how to do this on but couldn't find one that worked for me. I found other examples that used different websites but have been unable to correctly adapt their instructions to fit the website I am using. I want to use this URL to download the picture from daily (https://source.unsplash.com/2560x1440/?nature/). Is there a way I can do this with Tasker? If so can you please show me how?

Thanks for helping me.

# Answer
> 4 votes
I just messed around with Tasker a little more and found an answer. For anyone who is curious here it is.
1. Create a new profile set to every 24 hours.
2. Add a new action
3. Search for and select `HTTP Get`
4. Set the `Server:Port` to `https://source.unsplash.com/2560x1440/?nature/`
5. Set the `Mime Type` to `image/*`
6. Set the `Output File` to `unsplash.jpg`
7. Create a new action
8. Search for and select `Set Wallpaper`
9. Set the `Image` to `unsplash.jpg`
That should then change the background to a random image every day at midnight. Please let me know if I have made any mistakes, but from what I can see this works.

---
Tags: tasker, wallpaper, live-wallpaper
---


# Question
Title: Persistent "New provisioning message" notification from "CP Client"
I recently bought a new Nokia 2, Android 7 Nougat smartphone, and ever since I have started using it, I keep getting weird notifications from 'CP Client' saying 'New provisioning message'.

When I tap it, nothing happens and I can't do anything about it. I slide it to the right to get it out of my notifications, but it just comes back after a few minutes, and I keep getting these messages every now and then, usually 4 at a time.

This is really annoying and I'm worried if this might be a virus. What should I do to get rid of this problem?

# Answer
> 1 votes
1. Go to Settings -\> App info. This will show you all apps.
2. Click on Settings button (I) and you will find "show system". On clicking on it, all system apps will populate.
3. Now, find "cp client" and force quit, clear data, and clear cache.

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Tags: notifications, 7.0-nougat, nokia-2
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# Question
Title: HTC U Ultra: Can I use dual SIM on this device?
There seem to exist different versions of the phone.

I can insert 2 nano SIM cards in the device but how to activate the second one? There is no enter PIN dialog popping up. On YouTube I saw an unboxing video that showed dual SIM support.

# Answer
> 4 votes
Enter download mode by powering down the device and then holding both VOL\_DOWN and POWER to power it back up. It will boot to a screen saying `hTC download mode`.

The 3rd line of the displayed info will say something like `htc_oceuhl PVT S-ON`. `uhl` corresponds to the single-SIM variant, `dugl` is the international dual-SIM variant, and `dtwl` is the Chinese dual-SIM variant.

You can exit the mode by selecting "reboot" in the download mode menu.

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Tags: htc, dual-sim
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# Question
Title: Writing to /dev/log/main from command line
It is possible to write encoded messages into `/dev/log/main` and then see them in the `adb logcat` output.

The command should be executable through adb from the host PC. Ideally, it should look like:

```
adb shell ... my log message

```

Is there some way to encode the logs without installing anything?

So far, we have used very simple native application, which will print whatever is passed over its command line to the log.

# Answer
Write the following in terminal (replace 123456789 with the device serial number/id):

```
adb -s 123456789 shell log -t "TAG" "MESSAGE"

```
> 4 votes

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Tags: adb, logging
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# Question
Title: How does Android handle wifi root CAs? Should they be a security concern?
My university requires me to install a custom root CA to connect to their wifi network. When I installed it on my phone, it let me specify "Wifi" or "VPN and apps". I chose wifi, and was able to connect successfully.

However, I'm concerned about the security of this certificate. I don't know who is responsible for it at my university, and whether it's a group of volunteer students who don't know what they're doing.

When I chose the "Wifi" option, does that mean the CA will only be used to authenticate with the wifi network and not for anything else? So if the private key gets leaked and someone tries to make a phishing site using HTTPs to target students, would Chrome/whatever browser I have installed accept an HTTPs certificate for a site signed by the CA I installed for wifi?

I'm on Android 7.1.1

# Answer
A certificate authority signs digital certificates. Often times companies will pay an internationally trusted CA such as VeriSign or DigiCert to sign certificates on their own domain.

In some cases it may make more sense to act as your own CA, rather than paying a CA like DigiCert. Your university is doing exactly that, ie using their own certificate authority.

The first thing to understand is that the root CA that you installed is not a private key, but a public key. Take a look at your certificates on the browser you are using and look at the authorities tab, you will see a whole bunch of root CA such as VeriSign.

So lets say your university has an informational webpage university.edu. With out installing the root CA onto your device if you were to go to the web page you would see an error warning you that the site is not trusted. After installing the root CA, the site will show as secure since it is verifing that it is valid using the public key on your device. The unversity.edu webserver will have a private key that correlates to the public key you have. So when you access the webpage it verifies it is a valid site.

In essence having the root CA is not an issue. The only key that could potentially cause major issues if compromises is the root CA private key. Typically CA's are set up with a root CA and then an intermediate CA. The root key is kept offline so that it can not be compromised. That way if the private key used to sign Certificate requests on the intermediate CA is compromised, a new private key would be generated using the root Private key. This would require reissuing keys to all the servers that are verified, but does protect the environment.

Hope this helps.

Take a look at this documentation for setting up a certificate authority for more detailed understanding of how a certificate authority works.

https://jamielinux.com/docs/openssl-certificate-authority/introduction.html
> 1 votes

# Answer
I find the other answer here very misleading.

Installing a root CA is a HUGE risk. That means almost all of your network traffic can be intercepted (which can lead to bigger problems).

**But,** I'm not sure this is the case. I think you didn't installed a Trusted Root CA, but instead just a "Server Authentication" CA so your client (your phone) will be able to verify the RADIUS server which is used for authenticating your credentials to the WPA2-Enterprise Wi-Fi.

This is quite common in universities.

That means your university can't sign any certificate for any domain other than the specified server.

Though this is not certain. If you could update your question with a few screenshot of the request you got - I can say with certainty.
> 0 votes

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Tags: wi-fi, security, certificates, https
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# Question
Title: Preventing booting from unwanted/upgraded partition in Android
As I understand in Nougat and greater the system has two full partitions, one currently used and the second one that is used for upgrading. So during an upgrade the new bits are laid down on the secondary partition which will be made the primary to boot from the upgraded partition. My question is how does it prevent from booting from the original partition? Where is the information that determines which partition to boot from written/stored? How does it prevent an attacker from modifying it?

# Answer
> 1 votes
> Call `update_engine` with the HTTPS URL for your update package....
>
> ... If the update is applied successfully, **`update_engine`** will tell the bootloader to **boot into the new OS** on the next reboot....

(Emphasis Supplied)

So, you are looking at action being taken at boot loader level. And if you mess at that level dm-verity will kick in which is a kernel level protection that *can't be tampered with once device leaves factory*

> If verification fails, the device generates an I/O error indicating the block cannot be read. It will appear as if the **filesystem has been corrupted**, as is expected.

With a custom recovery `dm.verity` can be disabled but then OTA **will fail** because it detects recovery change and frankly, if an attacker can gain root access, the device is pretty much *their's*

Edit: See this for more details A/B (Seamless) update device questions

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Tags: security, boot, bootloader
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# Question
Title: Android is replacing some of my app icons with alternative ones. How do I stop this
Homtom HT30

The picture shows the icon for Google Maps. The programs seem to launch fine but the icons are changed.

# Answer
I was using the stock launcher 'Launcher3' which was overriding the Google Maps icon (and others). A different launcher doesn't have this problem, and looks much better. User 'beeshyams' suggested 'Nova Launcher' but I installed the 'Google Now Launcher'

Thanks 'beeshyams' for the answer.
> 1 votes

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Tags: app-icons
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