# Question
Title: Why is charging from computer using USB slower than using an outlet?
And what is roughly the ratio of the charging speed in USB vs charger? My phone is Samsung Galaxy S, if that matters.

# Answer
A computer USB port is limited to 500 milliamperes (or 900 mA for a USB 3.0 port). The dedicated wall charger, on the other hand, is usually able to provide 1000 mA or more.

Let's take the case where a connected phone uses 200 mA. Then, the USB port would have 300 mA left to charge the battery while the wall USB charger would have 800 mA left. A typical smart phone battery has a capacity of about 1500 mAh (milliamperes-hour) nowadays. This means that in a perfectly efficient world, a current of 1500 mA would charge the battery in 1 hour. So the same battery would then charge in 5 hours over the USB 2.0 port and in about 1h50 with the wall charger.

Of course in reality power losses would also affect charging times but these numbers are quite close to what I get with my actual phone.
> 68 votes

# Answer
Charging from a USB port of a computer is slower than charging using a charger because the voltage and amperage provided by the computer is considerably lower than in the case of using a normal charger, so the mobile is using “slow charge mode”

I don’t know which is the charging speed ration between USB and normal charger in the case of a SGS, but in my case (HTC Desire) with a normal charger I need approximately 2 to 3 hours for a full charge, but with a USB connection that time only charges 15 to 35 percent.
> 9 votes

# Answer
The reason your android device draws less power from your USB connection than from a wall adapter is because of the USB specification. This can be side-stepped by shorting the data wires in in the USB cable, which will switch the phone or tablet into wall mode where it can draw the full available current. The amount of current available will vary considerably from PC to PC.

The reason the specification exists in the first place is that the voltage to the computer's USB ports is usually supplied via the motherboard by a single loop connection which services all of the USB ports at once. Being only a few microns thick, this circuit is not able to deliver the same current as a dedicated charging wire. It is *highly improbable* that you will 'burn out your motherboard' by trying to draw the full available current through this circuit (although it is *theoretically* possible if your computer was a total P.O.S. to begin with). What is more likely to happen is that you will exceed the manufacturer's design specification, thereby denying sufficient power to any other USB devices you have connected, and/or other internal circuits which can cause the PC to crash. This is the *very same reason* it is recommended you use *powered* USB hubs.
> 3 votes

# Answer
A word of caution, while we all want our batteries to charge fast, be aware that the faster you charge a battery, the warmer it gets, and heat destroys battery life. A battery charge to full each time @ 0.5 amps will last longer than one charged to full each time @ 1.0 amps. I don't know enough to say this small difference is enough to be of concern for a cell phone battery, but I have found out that using an iPad charger (5.2V, 2.4amp) vs the recommended PC USB port (5V, 0.5amp) charge rate will shorten the life of a Bose noise canceling earbud battery. Happy charging.
> 2 votes

# Answer
Most of the answers are incomplete so I try to answer it, too.

The USB 2.0 specification defines a minimum of 500 mA for the hub and a maximum of 500 mA for the device and the USB 3.0 spec has the same limits for 900 mA: http://www.maxrev.de/files/2014/08/usb\_3\_0\_english.pdf

This means a device (the phone) is not allowed to consume more than 900 mA if it is connected to a hub (the pc) but the hub is allowed to provide as much as possible!

In addition you need to know that the USB specification does not cover USB power supplies. This is covered by the power delivery specification. This means they can deliver up to 2A @ 5V and many smartphones make use of higher currents.

Now back to the PC. A PC with three USB ports is defined as a "hub" and to meet the USB specification it will deliver \>500 mA per port. And because its much cheaper to use one power supply, all three ports are connected to the same one. And because of that a device can easily consume \>1500 mA if it is the only connected device. But the problem is that the device "talks" to the hub (by using 100 mA) and then both arrange the higher current (500 or 900 mA depending on the USB version).

So to answer the question: Charging from the computer is slower because both devices comply to the USB specification.

But if you fool the device so it thinks its connected to a power supply it can consume its maximum from the hub. For that you need an adaptor called "fast charge adaptor" that shortens the data lines (example 1, example 2).

So a computer port is not limited to 500 or 900 mA as stated in other answers. The limitation comes from the spec.

Note: There exist exceptions. For example mobile devices like ultrabooks are allowed to share the one port minimum for all ports. And I had a HP monitor that interpreted the USB specification very strict and limited the current of one of two USB 3.0 ports to 910 mA (avoiding the usage of many USB 3.0 usb drives that consume for a short time a little bit more).
> 2 votes

# Answer
Consider that computers often have other things inside of them or connected to them that need the same charge. The power within a computer itself is always lower than direct power from a outlet from a wall. When power is distributed through a computer to your phone, that same amount of power is also being used throughout the whole computer slowing the voltage to your phone, and other things that are plugged up. Always remember, if you want direct power and a quicker charge, its always good to use to wall outlet instead of a computer or labtop.
> 1 votes

# Answer
USB from computer delivers only 500mA. So, a 2100mA battery will take 5 hours to charge from a computer.

The charger outlet delivers 700mA to 1A. So, the battery will charge within 3 to 3.5 Hrs.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Samsung bridges pins 2 and 3 facing the phone. If pins 2 and 3 are open, the phone limits your charging capability to about 350 mA or so. Check it out: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1384253
> 1 votes

# Answer
Most of the answers here are very informative on the battery issue, I don't want to touch on that, though I should let you know that if you have to charge your android with your laptop or desktop, make sure it gets full before you unplug it, otherwise you will be slowly ending the long life of your battery by unplugging every time you have to leave because it kind of takes longer. I take a major precaution when it comes to charging because I changed my phones charging adapter more than thrice due to charging using my laptop. I was finally advised by my techie to use the specified charger and since then, i have no battery issues. Just a precaution.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Completely depends on your motherboard I have a beast of a PSU and top range type motherboard which lets you turn data connection off and the charge up - it charges phone in less than half the time of dedicated charger. As said though most computers will limit this so result in a slow charge
> 1 votes

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Tags: battery, usb, charging
---


# Question
Title: How to disable DRParser Mode from using mobile data?
I have a Samsung Galaxy A3 (2016, A310F) with Android 7. I switched off "using mobile data" but every time when I turn on the phone or restart it, the "DRParser Mode" (system application) uses my mobile data.

Screenshots are below:

How to block, disable or remove this app?

# Answer
> 1 votes
There are two apps that you can use to disable unnecessary packages (and in this case DRParser Mode) .

These are Package Disabler and Adhell. Both apps list out all the apps and services installed on the device and let you disable or enable them with a single tap. Most importantly it’s completely reversible and no root is required.

> Adhell is a Free, Open Source Ad Blocker with **Package Disabler** for Samsung Devices, while Adhell is free while Package Disabler costs a little over $1.

Acknowledgements

---
Tags: samsung, 7.0-nougat, mobile-data
---


# Question
Title: How to keep my old number in WhatsApp having the old SIM deactivated?
I have a new phone number and a new phone, but I want to keep my old number to use in WhatsApp but I don't have that SIM card anymore.

# Answer
If you had a deactivated SIM card on the phone, my guess is that you should still be able to use your WhatsApp through WiFi. But if you have taken out the SIM, it is not more possible as the new SIM will require an SMS-based validation. Better to port your number and then you can use it on WhatsApp.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger
---


# Question
Title: App Data Not Restored After Copy From Nearby Device
When installing a new Android 7.0 phone I chose the option to *Copy From Nearby Device*. All the apps on the older Android 4.4 device were copied and seem to be working but only 4 actually have any data in them: Gmail, Calendar, Hangouts (but not Hangouts Dialer) and Contacts. Every other app is an a cleanly freshly installed state: No accounts, no data, no saved games, etc.

**What happened and how can I correct this?** The older device is not rooted and neither is the new one yet (but I intend to do so once I figure out why).

# Answer
Two possible reasons

> When you set up your phone, you can quickly import Google Accounts, **backed-up apps**, and data from your current Android device to your new Nexus phone by using Tap & Go.

(Emphasis Supplied)

Kit Kat didn't have the cloud backup, IIRC, so it can't be whereas whatever is backed up is Google account stuff

* Again from Google help, of you scroll down the long list of complaints, you will notice problems when both the devices were *not* of same version. This cannot be concluded as the main cause as it is not documented officially, but the first one is more likely IMO.

On a side note, transfer from Huawei device on KitKat to Lollipop worked but not KitKat to Marshmallow (personal experience), that's why I was sceptical about it in answering your earlier question
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, 7.0-nougat, data-transfer, device-migration
---


# Question
Title: What does unlocking the bootloader have to do with rooting?
Every procedure I found to root my phone required to *unlock the bootloader* as a prerequisite. Well, I have an idea of what a bootloader is and it seems that there is something that prevents it from being changed, which is implied in the answer to this question. Also, the answer to this question says that it is not necessary.

The question remains: **Why are rooting instructions asking to unlock the bootloader?**

Aren't these separate things? Or do some rooting procedures also change the boot loader?

# Answer
* Unlocking boot loader is NOT mandatory for all devices. Unlocking, is to facilitate flashing of unsigned images as in custom ROMs. Even if you unlock bootloader, for rooting only, it exposes you to security concerns (see question linked at end of this answer ).
* If your bootloader is unlocked already, there is no need to unlock . There are devices with unlocked bootloader and for those you can proceed to root directly. For example Majority of devices seem to require unlocking
* This question explains well things about unlocking Is it possible to unlock the bootloader without root access?
* Rooting procedures do NOT change the bootloader. That would be dangerous

Also see , Why does unlocking the bootloader wipe phone?
> 0 votes

---
Tags: rooting, bootloader
---


# Question
Title: Access potentially cached websites (Chrome)
Having difficulty with my insurance company and would appreciate some help. I have in my browser history on Chrome on my Android Phone that I accessed the insurance site, and a particular page, to update my policy.

They claim I didn't do this and are refusing to insure me.

I've used the /:cache in the address bar but this only goes back a few hours. Is there a way to see anything further back?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Unless you archived the page using archive.is or archive.org, I don't think it is possible. Googles cache is updated every few days.

---
Tags: internal-storage, chrome-for-android, cache
---


# Question
Title: Is it normal that more than half of RAM use can't be accounted for?
I have a Samsung Galaxy phone and it typically says something like 705MB used 101MB free. This is a phone with like no apps except what sprint put on there. I've added up the running services and it comes to 279MB of RAM use. I can't figure out where the extra 400MB usage is coming from.

# Answer
Pretty much. As Lie Ryan mentioned in his post:

> Most smart phones are designed as a System-on-Chip; which means that the CPU, RAM, GPU, device controllers, etc are all in a single chip.

The physical memory chip capacity is **shared** between different parts of the hardware (SoC). So the amount of memory available to your applications is what's left from the original allocation.

In addition, just like any Linux system, Android is optimised to use as much RAM as possible, because that's how it was designed to work.

Furthermore, android system has a built in memory management system called **Minifree**. Basically operations like memory allocations to applications are done for example instructing the system how much RAM to leave free and available, cacheing 'often used' apps in memory, etc.

Here is the basic categories of minifree memory allocation to applications:

> *Foreground App*: This is the application currently on the screen, and running
>
> *Visible App*: This is an application that is open, and running in the background because it's still doing something
>
> *Secondary Server*: This is a process (a service that an application needs) this is alive and ready in case it's needed to do something e.g
> launcher, UI etc.
>
> *Hidden Application*: This is a process that sits idle (but still alive) in case it's needed by an app that's alive and running
>
> *Content Provider*: This is apps that provide data (content) to the system. If they are alive, they can refresh and provide the content they are supposed to at the set interval. If you kill them, they can't of course. e.g Contacts, calender etc.
>
> *Empty App*: These are apps that you have opened, but are done with them. When an activity is ended, instead of killing it off Android keeps the application in memory so that opening them again is a faster process.

Given this whole range of minifree allocations, its possible the application may not be visible but busy carrying out useful tasks requiring RAM, also even when you've killed a given app, there are high chances is stored as an 'empty app' (meaning its lodaded into RAM so that executing the same app again will be fast).

All this occurs at the expense of overall RAM on board and as a result you always get a lower RAM reading than anticipated, since mostly is is cached as explained above.

While you can reset or tweak default minifree values, I believe seeing lower RAM readings when not using lots of applications is good since you are guaranteed execution will always be fast than starting to load an application into memory every time.

**Basic notes**

* some RAM is shared between hardware
* some RAM is allocated to hidden apps, content providers, empty apps which may not be visible in usage statistics, but its still important for improving device performance.

References
> 0 votes

---
Tags: ram
---


title: Reacting to Bluetooth Disconnection

text:
# Question
Title: Reacting to Bluetooth Disconnection
I have a problem where disconnecting from various bluetooth devices switches my phone into Silent Mode. This is causing me to miss important calls and messages. There are quite a few different devices that I connect to and disconnect from throughout the day (car, headphones, bluetooth adapter connected to stereo, etc.)

It's being suggested to me that Tasker might be a solution to this issue. But I don't see that Tasker can be set up to listen for bluetooth disconnection events. Can anyone help me with this?

Basic goal is to listen for any bluetooth disconnection event. When such an event fires, I want to switch the Sound Mode to 'Sound'. Can this be done?

I'm using Android 7.0 on a Galaxy S7.

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can use Tasker to accomplish this, but since we need a *bluetooth disconnect* as *event* instead of *state* we need to create a dummy entry task then move the actual task to exit so that it corresponds with bluetooth disconnect event.

**Profile Context**

* Go to Profiles Tab and click the "+"
* Event ➡ State ➡ Net ➡ \[BT Connected (Name: name of BT device, Address:Input MAC address of BT device)\] *For multiple devices don't input anything in these fields*
* Tap back to exit from this window

If using BT name seems not to be working try using the MAC address of BT device instead.

**Entry Task**

You will notice as soon exit, you will be prompted to link this to a Task Here we just create a Task wait action as dummy

* Scroll all the way up the Task list select "New Task + "
* You can just keep it anonymous or give it a name
* Click "+" to add new Action
* Task ➡ Wait ➡ 4 seconds
* Tap back all the way until you exit this task

**Exit Task**

* Create a new Task (name it anything)
* Click "+" to add new Action
* Audio ➡ Silent mode: Set Off
* Tap back to exit from this task

Once you're done, Tasker should now automatically turn off Silent mode upon disconnection (exit) from your selected Bluetooth devices.

---
Tags: bluetooth, 7.0-nougat, tasker, automation, samsung-galaxy-s7
---


# Question
Title: Sync files to the cloud, but only upload differential changes?
I want to maintain a large file synced between my android device and a PC. I will be doing small changes to this file file all the time on the device, and I want these changes to be reflected on the PC. Ideally the file should *not* be uploaded in full everytime it changes (because it is so big), but only the `differential` changes (which are small). Is there a tool / app that does this? Does Dropbox / Dropsync work like this?

**Update:** This says that Dropbox only uploads the differential part. But I do not know if the same applies to Dropsync.

# Answer
> 3 votes
Differential sync or Delta sync is a feature that is available only on the PC version and **not** on Android as explained in Dropbox help pages Delta sync for Android

> **Power:**....Delta sync means you have to carry out hashing operations on the file, which on pretty much all mobile devices is a **non-power optimised** operation....
>
> **Hashing Overheads for small files:** Now, if the file is very large, and the change set is very small, sure there will be a tipping point, but for mobile stuff we aren't talking about a usage pattern which generally covers files hundreds of MB upward in size being edited, its going to be **brand new files** (photos, videos etc) or **small changes to documents** etc....You aren't going to be editing huge videos on an Android phone or tablets for example.

(Emphasis Supplied)

* If Dropbox for Android doesn't do Delta Sync, Dropsync logically cannot do, since it feeds Dropbox. Besides, app forum talks of *comparing files* but not differential or Delta sync
* I couldn't find any alternative cloud solutions that implement this sync on Android, perhaps for the reason mentioned earlier. Even services like *Own Cloud* which have an Android app, give similar reasons
* Only alternative I can think of is using `rsync` which does **incremental backups**, which is *faster* than differential backup (See a nice tabulated summary here)

Some pointers that may help you implement this solution ( should you decide on this route, it may help to ask a separate question for details )

---
Tags: sync, files, dropbox
---


# Question
Title: Android password requested after fastboot
I am trying to reset an intel machine with android 5.0 using fastboot.

If I do a complete reset, I have no problem, it encrypts normally & boot & works as a charm. But what I need is to reset the machine while keeping the data, so I removed this command: fastboot format data

After booting the machine I got a screen saying "to start android, enter your password" whatever last password enetered, I get the folowing (as if the password is wrong) & start resetting the machine..it works well, but no data is there too. I have no idea to what password does it means nor any of my known passwords work. Any Solution?

# Answer
what happened with me is not a full solution, just a partial: I connect the device to a keyboard via a USB & then we can switch using the arrows to move to android booting. Too bad we will have to connect it to this keyboard each time we restard the android device. But at least you can can now save your stuff, before loosing the device.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: fastboot, password
---


# Question
Title: how to manually enable debug mode on galaxy s4 with black screen?
Trying to enable the debug mode on galaxy s4 in order to share the screen to PC via vysor since the phone has black screen totally. The screen responds to touch even though it's totally black. Thanks.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I would comment this but i don't have enough rep yet. Off the top of my head i'd say your best hope is to watch a youtube video of someone doing it and try to replicate the touches, for a sense of if your hitting something you can turn vibrate on (using the volume controls). Other than that you could always claim warranty or try to get a new screen. Hope i helped

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-4, usb-debugging
---


title: Good complete backup solution?

text:
# Question
Title: Good complete backup solution?
I recently had a problem with my phone where I was forced to do a factory reset and lost a bunch of stuff.

To prevent that happening again I want a complete solution that reliably backs up my device at specified intervals. The desired result being the ability to restore my "environment" to a fresh phone if needed.

What solutions have worked for people in the past? I have tried Titanium Backup but that seems to require root and I don't want to root my device.

Note: Please do not consider the native backup solution provided by Google in Android (That failed me).

Many thanks Conor

# Answer
I usually just export my contacts and my internal storage. For more you might use the shell (and where you can choose your preferred file explorer) and copy the files you need to your desktop/laptop pc/external SD card. (app data for example needs to be copied with adb, so you have to use the shell) If you have some apps you can not reinstall, for example if they are not on the playstore anymore, then you can use an apk extractor, I prefer the one from F-droid. If you want to make a custom recover like backup you might want to look up how twrp does it.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: backup
---


# Question
Title: Downloading using youtube-dl and QPython on Android
I used this tutorial to install youtube-dl and QPython on Android

But when I run the command `youtube-dl https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5nxkynkSDI` It throws the following error:

```
[youtube] D5nxkynkSDI: Downloading webpage
[youtube] D5nxkynkSDI: Downloading video info webpage
[youtube] D5nxkynkSDI: Extracting video information
[youtube] D5nxkynkSDI: Downloading MPD manifest
ERROR: unable to open for writing: [Errno 30] Read-only file system: 'Ezekiel Elliot Touchdown Run Dallas Cowboys Win Against Pittsburg Steelers Fan Reaction Upset-D5nxkynkSDI.webm.part'

```

As per the answer given here: I tried creating `/etc/youtube-dl.conf` using ESFileExplorer but failed to do so. The device isn't rooted.

So here are my questions:

1. How do I enable writing permissions? or Specify path to a directory on external SD card as output directory?
2. I actually wanted to batch download few links using `youtube-dl -a 'batchlinks.txt` but I don't understand the current working directory. So I don't know where to put my 'batchlinks.txt'
3. Do I need to go to "QPython Dashboard \> Libraries \> PIP Console" to run youtube-dl? Why can't I run youtube-dl from "QPython Dashboard \> Console"?

Note: The 'batchlinks.txt' doesn't contain YouTube links.

# Answer
I solved this by using a Python script inside which I used youtube-dl not from the command line but with the YoutubeDL API (their documentation is good). Then, add this code Python script in which you are using the YoutubeDL API.

```
import os
os.chdir(r'/path/for/download')

```
> 1 votes

# Answer
It seems that it is trying to write to a read only file system. Try and use the -o argument to specify the downloads folder.

youtube-dl -o /sdcard/Downloads/YourVideo.mp4 https://www...
> 0 votes

# Answer
1. Try to identify where the sample scripts are stored on the device: I found it by clicking under 'Programs' which showed they were stored at (Android 7.0) :

> /storage/emulated/0/qpython/scripts

I'm thinking this means the app has permission to write under this directory. Then I created 'ytdl' using mkdir - either using adb or from within the shell inside Qpython (this is the one location that mkdir does work when doing it from within Qpython.

```
youtube-dl -o /storage/emulated/0/qpython/ytdl https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5nxkynkSDI

```

With the added benefit that this runs in the background, not sure if Doze mode will pause this, so leave it running in the foreground (by disabling sleep).

2. Navigate to the

> /storage/emulated/0/qpython/ytdl

and insert a text file batchlinks.txt at this location (possibly with a file manager (I used Solid Explorer)). Then while in that directory run (you don't need to specify -o since you are running from this dir and you shouldn't have to specify batchlinks.txt because it should see it from the current location (if it doesn't include the absolute path):

```
youtube-dl -a batchlinks.txt

```
3. Same place you installed youtube-dl from: Libraries -\> pip console where the cursor is:

`--> youtube-dl --version`

Also you can come out of the pip shell to the phones shell, and run from there (I did it by doing Cntrl-Z on a bluetooth keyboard connected to the phone).
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 5.1-lollipop, python
---


title: Unlock by fingerprint only

text:
# Question
Title: Unlock by fingerprint only
When I initially set up my phone, I had to both choose a pattern and scan my fingerprint, for providing maximal security.
Now, when I want to unlock my phone, I can choose, whether I want to do that with the pattern or with my fingerprint.

Why providing the fingerprint, when someone still can use my pattern?
Is there any way, to deactivate the pattern, so that it can be unlocked by the **fingerprint only**?

# Answer
It's not possible since FP is less secure than password/pattern. And there's another reason.

FP is stored as a "credential", which is by default, encrypted. That's why whenever you reboot your phone, or haven't unlocked your phone for 24 hours, you must unlock with pattern before you can use FP again.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, security, 7.0-nougat, pattern-lock, fingerprint
---


# Question
Title: How to remove encryption in Marshmallow without root?
Encryption is making transferring of files from phone to PC really slow besides I want to open my phone without any prompt and jump directly to my work.

As far as what I've tried is to go to settings but nothing occurred on tapping encryption. As my phone is in warranty and and also not popular (Eluga Tapp) root not seems to be a viable option.

# Answer
A factory reset will remove the encryption. After doing this you might want to install a custom recovery, just in case. There are many tutorials to do this in the internet.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, encryption
---


# Question
Title: Why the Slack app is not in the "Recent Apps" list?
My phone: Samsung S7 Edge OS: Android 7.0 Nougat

Almost all the apps can be shown in the recent apps list, which can be seen by pressing the left soft touch button, except the Slack app.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Some apps can hide themselves from Recent list.

There's nothing wrong. Slack is hiding itself. There's no solution except contacting its dev team.

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat, samsung-galaxy-s-7-edge, recents-screen
---


# Question
Title: removing an Icon from home screen but not uninstalling them,
I want to remove an icon shortcut from home screen. But not uninstalling them. OS is Lollipop and rooted. Is any way to hide an icon from home screen by terminal emulator. I don't want to change to nova launcher or any other app. Thanks in advance.

# Answer
If you tap and hold the icon, you should see a option at the top of the screen to remove or uninstall it. Choose remove.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: home-screen, app-drawer
---


# Question
Title: Disable magnetic screen on/off *without* Xposed?
Long story short, looking for a way to either disable the behaviour of screen turning on/off in reaction to magnets, or disable the Hall sensor (the sensor responsible for the reaction) altogether. The flip cover I have in hand has a weak magnet and thus doesn't turn on/off the screen reliably, hence I want to simply disable the feature and take things into my own hands.

There are a bunch of Xposed modules that do just the job (example), but Android 7+ probably never will get Xposed from what it looks like right now, so a solution **without** using Xposed is **required**.

The device in question is a Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 (Qualcomm, Wi-Fi) with root access.

EDIT 1: after some poking around, it seems that `/dev/input/event6` corresponds to the Hall sensor on this device - every time I open/close the magnetic lid, it shows an event there. Unfortunately, I still haven't found a way to disable a particular input device.

EDIT 2: I have tried a way to prevent the Hall sensor from reporting back its status, thus effectively disabling the sensor, and it works well. The problem is it requires me to modify the ROM's source code, and although I can handle that as a ROM compiler, I'm sure there are much more people who can't. So still, waiting for a more feasible solution.

# Answer
> 1 votes
You can delete `/dev/input/event6` directly. Then everything with the Hall sensor will stop working.

To make this happen automatically, you can write a simple script and let it auto-run at boot.

```
#!/system/bin/sh
exec rm -f /dev/input/event6

```

To restore without rebooting, **examine it with `ls -l` before deleting** (or you have to reboot)

Assume `ls -l` gave this result:

```
crw-rw---- root input 13, 68 1970-01-01 00:00 /dev/input/event6

```

Take note of the two numbers after owner/group, run this to recover

```
mknod /dev/input/event6 c 13 68

```

---
Tags: lock-screens, sensors
---


# Question
Title: Does changing a PIN decrypt and encrypt everything again?
From this answer and comments on it, a PIN is used to encrypt the phone and it must be used to decrypt it. So what happens when a PIN is changed or even removed?

* Does changing the PIN necessarily decrypt the entire phone and encrypt again?
* If not, does the phone need to remember every PIN ever used?
* If a PIN is removed and the *Slide to Unlock* security measure is used, does the phone become decrypted? Or does it remain encrypted with the old PIN?

# Answer
A phone is encrypted with a randomly generated *dedicated key*, then the key is encrypted with PIN and stored somewhere else.

When you replace the PIN, it's the key that gets decrypted and encrypted again. When you remove the PIN, the key is decrypted.

It's a bad practice to encrypt the device with an easily-changeable PIN because encryption takes time, and comsumes power.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: encryption
---


# Question
Title: What is this type of headphone icon in notification bar?
My phone (LG G3) shows two different types of headphone icons. They are the leftmost icons in the images below. The first is a normal headphone icon. What is the second one?

I think it might be USB headphone, but that doesn't make sense, because I don't have USB headphones and never use USB headphones with the device.

I have noticed sometimes when I use the aux cable for my car, it displays the second icon instead of the first one. It shows the first icon whether I use headphones with a built-in mic or headphones that don't have a mic - it's the same icon.

Image 1: normal headphone icon

Image 2: ??

Any thoughts?

*Edited images to make them smaller*

# Answer
Second one is showing a *line out* or *auxiliary audio* icon, which means that it had recognised that a jack had been plugged in ( but it doesn't detect a speaker or maybe it detects the speaker ) but fundamentally to *differentiate* between regular headset (with or without mic) and speaker connected with line out

If this happens when you connect to regular headphone, it indicates some dirt or pocket flint , preventing recognition of head phone. Cleaning with a tooth pick , ear bud and blowing air to dislodge muck should fix. If it doesn't, try app mentioned here What is this icon in my status bar?

Later versions of LG also differentiate between headphone with speaker and without speaker

I had this icon show up on a Dopod phone, owned a decade ago
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, notification-icons, headphone-jack
---


# Question
Title: Force specific folder to be added to Photos?
How can I force media-scanner to index a particular folder?

I use an app that takes photos and stores them in a sub-folder of it's own data folder. The data folder has a `.nomedia` file, so the photos sub-folder is ignored by Gallery etc. Is there an opposite of `.nomedia` file?

The data folder has a lot of other files an folders which should be ignored by media-scanner.

The ultimate aim is to have these photos backed up to my Google Photos account.

The target folder is not listed under Google Photos \>\> Settings \>\> Backup & Sync \>\> Device Folders.

I tried creating a symlink from `(...)/sdcard/DCIM/foobaz` to the `(...)/foobaz/data/photos` folder but get a message that the operation is not permitted.

Android 7.0, not rooted. (Samsung S6)

# Answer
* Delete the `.nomedia` file to force media scanning ( restart the phone. It is then that media scanner database is re indexed ) and it should appear in Google photos folder list for sync.
* If you don't want that folder to be scanned by media folder at all, create a new folder in gallery ( use a third party file explorer from Play store , if your built in explorer can't do this ) and copy those photos into this folder manually. Verify, it's showing up in Gallery options to sync
* Obviously, you wouldn't want to manually do this every time you use that app, so automate it. Macrodroid app implement it this way

**Trigger:** Application Launched / Closed → Closed → Select your app

**Action:** File operation → Select paths and move / copy options

This ensures that everytime you close your app, pictures are moved / copied into gallery sub folder and available for sync
> 2 votes

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Tags: photos, google-photos, media-scanner
---


# Question
Title: how can i retrieve my private mode data after factory reset
I got my samsung s6 edge phone and there was some data which was moved to private mode but due to some unavoidable reasons I got to factory reset my phone. but as it was connected to my gmail and was being backed up so i got all my pictures back in gallery but none of my picture is there which i had moved to private mode... I got s6 edge... any help there how to get those data back which was in private mode?

# Answer
If you did a factory reset there is no way you can retrieve your data, but if you had a backup of your rom there should be no problem recovering it
> 0 votes

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Tags: backup
---


# Question
Title: What is the file sharing protocol via Wifi Direct?
I'm developing Wifi Direct communication between Android and Linux System. Actually I can make Wifi Direct connection, and succeeded FTP file sharing.

But I want make more simple file sharing system, like Android's Wifi Direct file sharing. FTP connection needs some configurations, but as you know, just few touches are enough to share files between Androids via wifi direct.

My question is :

1. Is Android has specific file transfer protocol via Wifi Direct?
2. what is the best way for file transfer between Linux and Android systems?

Thanks for read.

# Answer
> 0 votes
> Is Android has specific file transfer protocol via Wifi Direct?

WiFi direct is a communication protocol just like Bluetooth. What differentiates between the two bluetooth has a transfer protocol; Object Exchange (OBEX) that facilitates the exchange of binary objects between devices) while the former doesn't.

AFAIK there is **no standard protocol** for file sharing even in Android environment.

WiFi direct is just one layer in a whole stack of different communication technologies and protocols required to get file sharing over network connections to function.

Basically you need to layer transport and session protocols layers on top (like TCP/IP), additionally you need to layer application protocols on top of TCP/IP, (like FTP, NFS, CIFS)

> what is the best way for file transfer between Linux and Android systems?

Well it depends, perhaps using USB connection? you're guaranteed realibity and speed. **Sometimes we don't need to complicate things.**

Wireless methods? (i.e bluetooth, wi-fi Wi-Fi direct etc) but again other factors come into play: compatibility, session protocols (FTP, CIFS etc) some protocols are associated with high speeds and reliability e.g cifs\> ftp etc.

See one example of such scenario using wi-fi: File transfer with linux pc through mobile hotspot

Credits:

WIFI Direct is now enabled in wp8.1-- devs can we expect file sharing apps using wifi direct APIs???

---
Tags: linux, file-transfer, wifi-direct
---


# Question
Title: I have broken my Motorola Moto E 1 Screen I was wondering if I could plug my Phone into a Monitor and a mouse
I have broken my Motorola Moto E 1 Screen I was wondering if I could plug my Phone into a Monitor and a mouse, so i could use the mouse to put in my passcode.

The bad thing is that my passowrd is a pattern and the screen is unresponsive, i need to backup my stuff and i can only do that when i have unlocked the device.

So if anyone could point me in a way that would make me be able to connect my phone to a screen i would be very happy.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There is a Chrome plugin called Vysor that I have used successfully in the past when my screen was completely broken and I had to extract my data. I believe it needs USB-debugging to be enabled to install on your device, but it's free so you could give it a shot. (In my case, USB-debugging was enabled before it broke because I make apps)

Once the apk is installed, it mirrors your screen on the pc and you are able to control the phone through there (and make the pattern to unlock with your mouse, or even enter the SIM-pin).

---
Tags: usb-on-the-go, broken-screen, external-display, mouse
---


# Question
Title: How to send Back Button and Home Button Commands with Screen Monitor-Droid Explorer 0.9.0.4
The Droid Explorer version 0.9.0.4 Screen Monitor feature provides the ability to use a mouse to select and use applications on Android devices, but the back button and home button are not available on the screen. An application is available for download from Google Play to provide this function.

Is it possible to send back button and home button commands with Screen Monitor without downloading an application?

# Answer
About keyboard shortcut `Home` button input can be send using `Esc` key located at the top left corner of qwerty keyboard... Still looking for back button shortcut.
> 0 votes

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Tags: droid-explorer
---


# Question
Title: How to play music file on external SD card with deep path
I have a Samsung Note 4, with android 5.1.1. And I have an on-line music player installed on it. The player can download music from the Internet, and the files are stored in the external SD card. But it has a deep path, such as `extSDCard/Android/data/com.xxx.xxx/music/...` For some reason, I want to use the stock music player to play these files. But it just can't find them.

I tried copy some files from the deep path to a folder called "music" in the root of my SD card, then the stock player can find it, but I can't change the download path of my on-line music player and I don't want to do a copy or move every time when I download music.

So, any good suggestions to make the stock music player find the files?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I think (!) the answer lies in the length of the path to the file(s). I'm experiencing similar issues, and I solved it for one file by simply shortening the filename.

---
Tags: external-sd, music
---


# Question
Title: Installing Google play services without flashing
Can installing Play Services rather than flashing GApps ? I know that play services drains battery. Flashing GApps makes it as a system app and byusing greenify(as root) reduces the battery usage made by play services by force stopping it. But it restarts again. So my question is , Is it possible to install it rather than flashing it? Cause installing it makes a non system app and greenify can do a much better work on it.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Tried to do this, too after my first few flashes, but this did not work. As far as I know it makes a difference for some apps if they are system Apps or just installed and I think this is here the case, too. After all you could install the smallest packet, then you have got less system apps if this helps. Another idea would be to disable the background processes as showed in this video from XDA and then those apps should just work if you really open them up. This would not involve greenify but would have the same effect as far as I can tell.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, battery-life, google-play-services, greenify
---


# Question
Title: Recover photos from locked Android (Galaxy S5 Verizon)
My mom passed tonight and there are some photos of her on this old phone I have. Losing them is not an option but I only have 1 attempt left on the lock code before it factory resets the data so I can't attempt that or do the Google account unlock or anything.

I read a bit about yodot or something that may be able to help, but I wanted some help from the experts before I dive in and screw it up because like I said if I mess this up I will be absolutely devastated.

I really hope you guys can help me out. Thanks in advance, I really appreciate it.

# Answer
If adb is on then you have a chance to recover data from the device.

1. Install adb and fastboot drivers in your Computer.
2. Connect your phone with an USB cable
3. Open terminal and enter `adb devices`
    4. If it shows your device then you can extract any file by entering `adb pull path/to/file`
> 0 votes

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Tags: lock-screens, data-recovery
---


# Question
Title: BlackBerry priv: double tap to wake up isn't working
All of a sudden from yesterday morning, double tap screen to wakeup the phone isn't working. I read few forums where I understood even hard reset isn't working.

Please help to solve this issue.

# Answer
This got fixed automatically this morning. It was clearly not a software issue as there was no update. I suspect it might be the cause of placing the phone's screen face down few days before this issue, which got fixed when I stopped doing so.
> 0 votes

# Answer
OK I have had this problem sometime with my Oneplus X. Sometimes this is a bit buggy and you have to turn the screen on and off which will result in a refresh. Problem solved. Even if it is not the way one would prefere this, but if you wanted to fix this in another way you would have to tune the kernel. If you want to do this... OK, but I don't think this is worth it.
> 0 votes

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Tags: blackberry
---


# Question
Title: What is a 'global' phone? (ex: Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge model SM-G935F)
Is the 'global' model of a phone the same thing as an 'international version?'
I'm shopping for an S7 edge, and I've heard all over the internet that the international version doesn't work with Samsung Pay.
Also, this may be a dumb question, would a model such as the SM-G935FD (a Taiwan model) be considered an 'international version?'

Is the distinction thus:
--US--
SM-G9350
SM-G935A (AT&T, Cricket USA)
SM-G935P (Sprint, Boost, Virgin USA)
SM-G935R (US Cellular)
SM-G935T (T-Mobile, Metro PCS USA)
SM-G935V (Verizon USA)
--International--
SM-G935F (Global)
SC-02H (Japan Docomo)
SCV33 (Japan au)
SGH-N611 (Japan Docomo)
SM-G935D (Japan Docomo)
SM-G935FD (Taiwan)
SM-G935J (Japan au)
SM-G935K (Korea)
SM-G935L (Korea)
SM-G935S (Korea)
SM-G935W (Canada)

\[I got this list from http://willmyphonework.net \- I use this site as I'm phone shopping to check whether a certain model will work with my carrier\] (this example is to help me further understand, you see. Edit/shorten as you see fit.)

# Answer
> 1 votes
Okay, so I chatted with a Samsung representative, and they informed me that their global model phones are indeed considered international. In re-reading my question now, I realize my question may not have been as clear as it could have been- I'm in the market for a new S7 Edge, and so was curious about what it meant when one of *Samsung's* phone models was "global," such as the SM-G935F.

So, the rep said the global model, and any non-US models (Japan Docomo, Taiwan, Japan au, Korea, Canada, etc) are considered international. He also confirmed that they do not currently work on Samsung Pay, and he does not know when this will happen, if it does.

So this is correct:
**--US--**
SM-G935A (AT&T, Cricket USA)
SM-G935P (Sprint, Boost, Virgin USA)
SM-G935R (US Cellular)
SM-G935T (T-Mobile, Metro PCS USA)
SM-G935V (Verizon USA)
**--International--**
SM-G935F (Global)
SM-G9350 (China) \[credit: Andy Yan\]
SC-02H (Japan Docomo)
SCV33 (Japan au)
SGH-N611 (Japan Docomo)
SM-G935D (Japan Docomo)
SM-G935FD (Taiwan)
SM-G935J (Japan au)
SM-G935K (Korea)
SM-G935L (Korea)
SM-G935S (Korea)
SM-G935W (Canada)

# Answer
> 0 votes
As for the 1st question, CDMA(Verizon and Sprint) is often referred to as Global.

For the 2nd, for Samsung Devices I'm pretty sure all international variants are the ones with Exynos CPUs instead of Qualcomm ones. So yes, the Taiwanese phone would be international.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-7-edge, roaming
---


title: Privacy, Malware & Android Permissions

text:
# Question
Title: Privacy, Malware & Android Permissions
From a privacy perspective is the sheepoll app ok to use? Whilst the owner has reassured us they're not looking to snoop there is a possibility of a nefarious deeds being done so comments? It's for a polling entertainment show so not important to install.

It also has this scary permission description:

> Device ID & call information
>
> Allows the app to determine the phone number and device IDs, whether a call is active and the remote number connected by a call

The app owner's reply:

> Hey Darryn, the new app has a heap of new features we couldn't do playing from just a web browser. As for the device and call info, I think you have misunderstood it. All the app does is identify your phone so when you log back in it picks up from where you left off. There is no recording of the numbers of people you call. We ain't the CIA. We do hope to see you at our shows though. Can't wait to see your Baabaatar!

# Answer
From a privacy perspective, any app that requires more permissions than its actual usage is not a secure or private app. Is there a valid reason why they would need your call information? Is the software related to managing calls? From what I can tell, not really. You can never trust developers for their words. Many people in the past claimed they will not spy or collect additional data even with permissions, many more people will do that in the future, yet there are a lot of them who do break their "promise".

I am personally relatively paranoid, so if an app is just a news browsing app, if it requires permissions like my SMS history or anything more than its initial purpose, It is a massive no go.
> 2 votes

# Answer
I'm part of the development team of the Sheepoll App. Glad you came up with the question.

When developing an Android app, you have a lot of Android hardware/software functionalities that require permission to be used. These permissions are declared in a "Manifest", basically a file that says:

* This app needs internet
* This app needs to use the device camera
* This app needs to write data to the external storage.

And so forth.

After investigating, we found out that unnecessary permissions indeed were being requested by our app. These permissions have been added by default during our development phase. This issue has been identified and fixed, as seen here.

These permissions will be removed in the next release of the Sheepoll App. :)
> 1 votes

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Tags: security, permissions, malware, privacy
---


# Question
Title: Need to know ip address through my viber login
My laptop has been stolen and viber is installed there, the thief has acceesed my viber . can i check the ip address associated with my viber so that i can trace the location of my laptop.

other my viber account is linked with my gmail account. can i show my viber login activity/ipaddress/location on gmail account.

# Answer
You can see your IP activities from gmail too, go to the gmail homepage, scroll down and look for *last account activity: some time ago*, under that line there is a link to *details* there you can see from where your Google account has been accessed, hopefully you can retrieve your laptop

Good luck :D
> 0 votes

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Tags: gmail
---


# Question
Title: Dual SIM device : How to configure data usage on per app basis (Rooted device)
My Moto X Play (6.0.1, rooted, Xposed installed ) has dual SIM options, which I usually don't use. Recently, I had a need to use two SIMs, borrowed one with generous data allowance and second (personal ) SIM which was halfway to hitting the data cap.

My need was to configure data usage on a per app basis so that :

* I don't exhaust data on my personal SIM while being able to use mobile number linked accounts like WhatsApp, Uber, banking accounts etc.
* For all other apps , use the data from borrowed SIM

I couldn't find an app to do this, as is evident from this similar question, which has no responses yet -Is there a way on a DUAL SIM Android phone to configure on a per-app basis, which app uses which sim card to access internet?

**How do I configure SIM data usage on per app basis ?**

(This is a self answered question to share one way of doing it. You are welcome to post alternate solutions )

# Answer
> 3 votes
Requires Rooted Device, Xposed framework installed, latest version of GravityBox Xposed module and an app - I use Macrodroid

Create a macro in Macrodroid

**Trigger:**

* Application Launched → select from the drop down list, all apps you want to use on SIM card linked to banking, WhatsApp, Uber etc (5 apps in example below )
* Application Launched → select from the drop down list, all apps you want to use on *second* SIM card (16 apps in example below )

( Make sure that apps *don't* appear on both lists !)

**Actions:**

* If → **`+`** → Trigger Fired → Application Launched 5 apps →
* Tap End If and add this action - Launch Shortcut → GravityBox actions → SIM settings → SIM 1 for data

Repeat this for second set of apps and choose SIM 2 for data

**Constraints:** Leave blank

Done !

---
Tags: mobile-data, automation, dual-sim, macrodroid
---


# Question
Title: Remove preinstalled malicious software from smartphone
I bought a THL T9 Plus recently and get some preintalled apps on it, like YouTube. I thought, that this apps are original, because Google Play client recognised these too. My phone behaved strange in some cases, so I tested it with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. It found: `Android/Trojan.Spy.Agent.YQ` in system/priv-app/thl\_YouTube folder.

# Answer
> 1 votes
To remove or freeze pre-order installed apps you need to *root* your device - without rooting you cannot uninstall system apps (those that came bundled with the OS )

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Tags: malware, uninstallation, antivirus
---


title: News & Weather Widget Not Updating

text:
# Question
Title: News & Weather Widget Not Updating
I have a news & weather widget on my Nexus S home screen, set to show the weather for my current location. In its settings, I have it set to update once an hour along with automatic location tracking. Neither of these things work anymore since about a month ago (possibly the 2.3.4 update?). I have background data enabled, sync enabled, and I don't have any battery saver style programs.

# Answer
I solved this myself after trying a few things. I deleted the News & Weather app's data by going to Settings\>Applications\>Manage Applications\>All, Tapping "News & Weather", and then "Clear Data". I needed to delete and re-add the widget and set my refresh settings again, but now it works.
> 1 votes

# Answer
All you have to do is free up your internal memory. Many apps stop working if your internal memory is near full or has reached a certain storage limit. Move vidoes and apps go your sd card and it will start working fine
> -1 votes

---
Tags: sync, app-widgets, news-and-weather
---


# Question
Title: How to detect GPS status through adb shell?
I need to detect **GPS status** through `adb shell`. I have tried `dumpsys location` command but the **output of this command is not changed** when the GPS is enabled/disabled.

# Answer
> 4 votes
You can use this command:

```
adb shell settings get secure location_providers_allowed

```

Possible outcomes:

* returns nothing, implying the GPS is switched off.
* `gps,wifi,network` or `gps,network` -- High accuracy mode
* `wifi,network` or `network` only -- Battery saving mode
* `gps` -- Device only

---
Tags: adb, gps, shell, android-emulator, scripts
---


# Question
Title: Screenshots: captured by front camera or back camera?
I see that screenshots posted in my answers seem to be grainy. Example

Thinking of it made me wonder which camera is used - front or back and is there a way / hack / app to improve the quality of screenshot ?

Changing brightness helps a little but *grainy* texture remains

Device : Moto X Play, Stock, Rooted , Xposed installed

# Answer
> 4 votes
### Remove that lowercase "m" in https://i.stack.imgur.com/XXXXX*m*.png (More Info)

The screenshot has **nothing to do with your cameras**. A screenshot is taken by the system (or the graphics driver), who takes one frame from its rendering buffer and saves the frame. Thus a screenshot always has the same resolution as your screen, and is always a PNG.

Changing brightness should have no effect on your screenshots taken, because it does nothing to the images rendered by your graphics processor. For LCD screens, brightness is simply the power supplied to the backlight panel, and the masking (front) panel is not affected. To confirm this, find a static screen and take two shots with different brightness levels. Compare those screenshots pixel-by-pixel and you'll find them *exactly the same*.

For grainy textures, it's Imgur's service for resizing photos that caused that problem.

I've edited your example post and here's the change:

```
[![enter image description here][1m]][1]

  [1]: https://i.stack.imgur.com/L21J7.png
  [1m]: https://i.stack.imgur.com/L21J7m.png

```

See for yourself

---
Tags: screenshots
---


# Question
Title: Why external microphone doesnt work on some Androids (like LG G5)
I want to solve the problem with new Android phone (I use LG G5; and Motorola-Turbo2 too, but i dont care about it).

I use two kinds of microhpones (4 pin) :

# =========== Wired =========

This mic actually has only 2 working wires (3rd an 4th rings connected to MIC board). Top 1st and 2nd rings are just empty.

# =========== Wireless =========

# ==== Problem ===

I can use WIRED mic perfectly with LG, but not with MOTOROLA (MOTOROLA cant see that as "mic", thus doesnt get any voice from it).

However, I tried to use Wireless microphone system with LG, it cant obtain voice (i have tried all ways), but MOTOROLA works with appliance perfectly.

As you know, the receiver outputs audio exactly on the same 3rd and 4th rings, but in addition, it adds some electrical power too, as a person is able to hear it softly in speakers (as opposed to WIRED microphone, which doesnt output anythig if something doesnt powers it)

Addition: I am a bit technician and tried to manually cut wires & connect lines with each other, to every possible combination, but in none of the case the LG worked with the applicance...

p.s. I dont think that it matters whether 3rd or in 4th ring is "ground", because when I have exchanged 3rd and 4rd (ground & microphone) wires, it didnt matter for phones. They are working the same way, only with "beloved" types...

# Answer
**tl:dr;** Based on your observation that it works with Moto but not with LG, my *guess* is that it is due to *conflicting TRRS standards* -there are two standards. *OMTP* which is the older standard and *CTIA/ AHJ* which is the standard all newer Android devices are expected to follow

Details and solutions to overcome are listed

---

From TS/TRS/TRRS/TRRRS: Combating the misconnection epidemic by Allan Tépper - ProVideo Coalition which talks of this problem on Android phones

There are two TRRS standards - OMTP and CTI / AHJ

* **OMTP** is the older standard

> The older OMTP wiring standard calls for Tip to be used for left audio, Ring 1 to be used for right audio, ring 2 to be used for microphone, and the sleeve to be used for ground. According to my research, this older OMTP standard is found in old Nokia (and also Lumia starting from the 2nd generation), old Samsung (2012 Chromebooks), old Sony Ericsson (2010 and 2011 Xperias), Sony (PlayStation Vita) and the OnePlus One I used to own before migrating to a Nexus 6 for use with Project Fi.

> The newer CTIA/AHJ wiring standard reverses the last two mentioned, so it calls for Tip to be used for left audio, Ring 1 to be used for right audio, ring 2 to be used for ground, and the sleeve to be used for microphone. According to my research, this newer CTIA/AHJ wiring standard is used in products from Apple, HTC, latest Nokia, latest Samsung, Jolla, Sony (Dualshock 4), Microsoft (including Surface, Lumia, and XboxOne controller with chat adapter) and most Android phones.

From this, it appears that your devices are using different standards, though it's difficult to say which device is using which standard , but Moto being the older phone is probably using the older standard while LG is using newer standard.

Pictorial representation (see for discussion on more phones including Apple )

**Problems in connection** are around Ground - since mic and ground are different in both standards. See also from SE.Electronics Hacking a TRRS to TRS adapter

**Solutions**

Samples of the last two options are linked at the end of blog here

Before you invest money, you can possibly verify by swapping the ground and mic , see this example from SE.Electronics

---

**Edit:** Post your edit today , saw This you tube video suggests that *Wireless TRRS microphone adaptor* worked to fix the wireless problem on LG V 10. I don't have any details on that or why it works but maybe worth giving it a shot considering, it's not expensive
> 7 votes

---
Tags: microphone, troubleshooting
---


# Question
Title: Contacts menu is not accessible in Android 6
I want to restore contacts from Sim - I have gone to the dialer and then contacts, then I look for the menu button that should appear in the search bar (as described here: http://teckfront.com/import-contacts-sim-card-android-6-0-1-marshmallow-2/ )

However, the menu is not accessible. All that appears there is the google microphone; when I tap it, it opens the microphone and invites me to say the name of a contact.

How do I access the contacts menu with the microphone in the way? Alternatively, is there another way to transfer contacts from the SIM that I have not seen?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I found the "menu" while connecting the phone to the PC. The dedicated application that self-installed from the phone allowed me to browse / move all media files and, of course, contacts from SIM card. Found it by chance...

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


# Question
Title: Battery Charges OK after full discharge, but only once
I am using a Samsung Galaxy J5 Prime smartphone. My battery recently started to show up (I would plug in the charger, **and it would charge**, but the meter would become stuck). One full discharge solves the problem and the battery charges OK after that, but only once or twice. After that the problem resumes.

I know the battery is being charged because doing a full load drain (screen, flashlight, etc all turned on) takes time to discharge the battery which is already on low percentage so it is definitely a meter fault.

What other options do I have since the full discharge only works once?

# Answer
1. See if the behaviour persists in safe mode
2. If the behaviour is normal, it would point to a misbehaving app (though, I haven't come across apps causing this). your device and check
3. If the same behaviour continued , flash stock ROM using , since the fuel gauge drivers may be corrupted

For 2 and 3 make sure you back up your data

If none of above helps, service Center is the only option to address hardware issue
> 0 votes

---
Tags: battery, charging
---


# Question
Title: Can not recognize Nexus 7 2013 version with USB
I am using android version 6.0.1 kernel 3.4.0-gad29d11. I have tried a laptop with windows 8.1 and desktop with ubuntu 16.04. I have tried installing ADB software and google drivers, using different usb cables, putting the device into developer mode with usb debugging on and MTP active, a galaxy 3 phone also is not recognized on either computer. Linux does not show a new usb connection when N7 attached and windows does not show any unknown/android device in device manager. All other usb functions (e.g., OTG operations, charging, etc.) work with the N7.

What can I do?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I have had this problem on a labtop of my mom's. Maybe there is some security feature on the mainboard, I could not try it on this labtop because it is not mine, but that might be the issue. Look out for secure boot for example. (it would be interesting to know if it is a Dell, if yes this could be an issue referring to the company or kind of bios/uefi) I have tried it on another pc, desktop this time and I did not have any trouble. So if there is no option to fix it in the bios, just use another pc, (preferably a desktop) and flash on this system if you can.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, usb, nexus-7, usb-connection-mode, usb-drivers
---


# Question
Title: How to backup / partition before rooting?
I would like to root my Nexus 5 but I am worried it will cause a bootloop or some other sort of problem and therefore I would like to back up all my phones data including / before hand. Is this possible?I have already tried using the adb command like this:

> adb pull / *your path here*

But this doesn't work and returns

> permission denied: read only file system

Is it possible using adb to backup / without having to be rooted so that I can root?

Thank you,

Isaac

**Is there any way I can use adb pull instead of adb backup?**

# Answer
> 1 votes
You do not have to backup Entire `/`. Rooting phone only unlocks bootloader for custom recovery and involves installations of the su binary in `/system` partition and the overall partitions that can be affected due to bad root are: `/system`, `/data`, `/cache`. Rest of the partitions wont really be bothered.

An effective way to backup your everything is to use ADB Backup. It will backup ALL of your data **except SMS** (so backup them up manually with some app beforehand).

Hope this helps.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Those on Android 6+ can try the instructions that I posted here, starting at step 5. I *think* this will work without root, but I haven't tried. You'll need 6+ if you're running stock because some of these commands require tools only included in Toybox.

See also Ryan Conrad's great answer, based on this xda-developers guide, also linked by Firelord above.

# Answer
> 0 votes
It sounds like you need to use ADB's partner, ***Fastboot***.

Like ADB, it is a command line tool run from cmd.exe (Window$) or terminal (Linux & Mac). You can only use fastboot while the device has been booted into bootloader mode. Bootloader mode can be accessed using the following steps:

1. turn off device
2. press volume down
3. while pressing volume down, press the power button
4. when device vibrates, release the buttons
5. connect device to computer with a USB cable

Device should now be in bootloader mode.

Fastboot is primarily used during the rooting process to unlock the bootloader and flash a custom recovery. You can also use fastboot to return the device back to stock by flashing the original factory images. Here are the commands available

This process, if not done properly, can turn your device into an expensive paperweight. It also can void the warranty if the device is still under one.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There is a very handy toolkit for nexus devices, at least on windows, which you can use to back up your system, unlock bootloader and flash a recovery via gui, called nexus root toolkit, I think you can get it on xda.

---
Tags: root-access, stock-android
---


title: Backup WhatsApp to PC (with all Media)

text:
# Question
Title: Backup WhatsApp to PC (with all Media)
How do I backup my WhatsApp Chats with all media (text, video, audio, position data etc.) and view them on PC?

The backup purpose is not to restore it later, it is to view the data on my pc, just as if it was on my smartphone.

* Solution tested, which doesn't meet the requirements:
    + Copy WhatsApp folder to PC and use whatsapp-viewer
        - The viewer and its HTML Export files do not contain the voice messages

# Answer
> 0 votes
The chats are saved automatically every day in the *WhatsApp*-Folder on your internal storage, and the pictures and videos are there as well. Just copy the whole folder to your PC. WhatsApp restores these files during the installation if it finds them, so if your smartphone breaks, just copy the folder onto the new one (same location) and install WhatsApp again. It's also possible to make a manual backup from the settings. You just have to copy it to your computer every day ...
You could use a tool like the WhatsApp Viewer to view the files on your PC. I haven't tested this programm, but it looks ok, and you didn't specify what you mean with "view".

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, backup, whatsapp-messenger
---


# Question
Title: Importing contacts from SIM fails in Marshmallow
I tried to import contacts from SIM in Marshmallow phone. But it tells me that no contacts was found on the SIM card. But an old phone had phone numbers on that SIM. Are there more robust play market apps to extract contacts from the SIM card?

# Answer
If it tells you that there are no contact on your SIM card, it's probably right. Are you sure that the contacts were not on the phone instead of the SIM card?
Have you access to the old phone? If yes, look if there are still contacts on it. You can save them to an SD card and transfer them for example by wire or bluetooth. You also could use your google account to sync them between your two mobile phones.
If you don't have access to it anymore, you still can use your google account - maybe they've been uploaded to google. If not, you have a problem ...
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, contacts, sim-card
---


title: galaxy s5 recovery

text:
# Question
Title: galaxy s5 recovery
I have a galaxy S5, which yesterday (cracked screen) decided to go black. I can still get it to call, take pictures in the blind.

What things can I try to recover the data on here...I figured out last month that the google backups were not occuring and could not get them to backup. Was working on that when this happened.

I need my contacts, my text messages, and my photos.

I am a fairly capable sysadmin. I have googled without success. Called the Sprint store and does not sound like they are willing to help me recover the data.

Can I recover this with a blank screen and it is not rooted? Thanks

# Answer
> 0 votes
If you can unlock it, you can simply connect it with your computer and copy the important files (at least the photos; they're in the folder *DCIM* on your internal storage or SD card, depending on the camera settings).
You can use ~~*Samsung Kies*~~ (looks like Samsung replaced it with *"Smart Switch"*, but I haven't used it yet ... might work as well) to backup most of your other data, especially if your next phone is a Samsung as well.
To copy your text messages, you will probably need an app on your device - I don't think that Kies or Smart Switch copy them, and I don't know of any other possibility to save them by wire. I don't know if you are able to install an app (could be done via adb) and to use it blindly ...

(If you're wondering what's "adb": remove brackets:
https\[://\]developer.android.com/studio/command-line/adb.html)

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-5, broken-screen
---


# Question
Title: Restore IMEI of Xiaomi MI4C Without Another Phone
In short: I have a Xiaomi Mi4c that shows has an "unknown" IMEI when checked via the settings in the stable and developer versions of MIUI and Cyanogenmod 13.1. However, when viewed through EFS professional or NV RF Manager, the IMEI is read correctly. Not having a "valid" (or any?) IMEI means I have a 5" wifi tablet, rather than a phone, which is something I've been trying to fix.

The long version:

The problems started right after I flashed CM 13.1, and I couldn't detect my sim card. Thinking it was my ROM, I reflashed my stock ROM and when that didn't solve the problem, I quickly deduced that the missing/unknown IMEI was the problem.

I finally got NV RF Manager working, and read all of the NV values from my phone. After finding the IMEI related value, I followed the odd schema for rearranging my IMEI and filled the boxes out and clicked "Write NV." However, I only received an error that read "Parameter is write-protected and thus read only." The same results were achieved with EFS professional. (Again, this was on CM) Now, I reflashed the stock ROM, and tried again. After rebooting the phone, I was able to read the correct IMEI values from the phone using both EFS professinoal and NV RF Manager, but the phone still showed baseband and IMEI as "unknown." Dialing \*#06# causes the numbers to disappear, but nothing else happens.

So far, this is what I've tried:

* NV RF Manager
* EFS Professional
* MTK Droid Tools
* SP Flash Tools (Did not work at all, only for MTK chipsets?)
* Apps like XPOSED IMEI Changer (Results in nothing changing)

There are a few related questions, but none of them work for me.

How to restore IMEI and get back network functionality?

Might work, but I have been unable to find the "modem" or nvram files on my phone. I also don't have an "efs" folder on my phone (that I can find.)

Mi4i full partition corrupted. Unable to restore EFS partition

Isn't jiving with me. The thought of uploading mi4i (rather than mi4c) specific files after removing my only remanents of my efs files seems like a bad idea to me.

How to restore the IMEI number on the Samsung Galaxy S4 I9505?

Is ROM specific, and since it doesn't work on multiple ROMs, I've ruled it out as related.

Again I have a Xiaomi Mi4C, the 32GB/3GB version with the Qualcomm MSM8992 Snapdragon 808 chipset.

Any help at all would be greatly appreciated, I've hit a wall fixing this problem.

# Answer
> 1 votes
This is what worked for me. I've documented everything in a GitHub repository, and have included some of the information here. However, I will not be updating this information, and I cannot upload the supporting files, making the GitHub repository the go to resource for many reasons. With that said, here is the excerpt:

## Download files

I've attached a few files:

1. **mi4c.qcn**: an IMEI backup from another phone
2. **QPST**: the program for uploading the IMEI backup
3. **IMEI converter** converts IMEI to hex

The IMEI converter is optional, but useful.

## Root phone and enable USB debugging

Other people have already written this part up, and in the spirit of refactoring, I will link to them rather than repeating what they say.

* Unlocking the Mi4c Bootloader without verification by Xiaomi
* Root and install twrp recovery on Xiaomi mi4c
* SuperSu install
* Enable USB debugging

## Setup other software

* Here's a guide for how to install ADB and Fastboot.
* You'll need a hex editor. Here's one, but there are many to choose from.

## Enable diagnostics mode

Open up your command prompt and run

```
adb shell
su
setprop sys.usb.config diag

```

This enables the diagnostics mode on your phone, priming it for QPST

## Check drivers

Go to "Device Manager" and check if your drivers are installed correctly. If they are not, try enabling unsigned drivers and reinstalling/updating the drivers for the phone.

## Edit mi4c.qcn

Open up your hex editor and search for "08 5A 44 13 66 06 75 76 36" Change this to your IMEI that you converted into hex with the IMEI converter attached.

## Erase existing IMEI files

```
adb shell
su

dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p28 of=/sdcard/modemst1
dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p29 of=/sdcard/modemst2
dd if=/dev/block/mmcblk0p33 of=/sdcard/fsg

dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p28
dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p29
dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/block/mmcblk0p33

reboot

```

This clears the way for the new files.

## Repeat Enable diagnostics mode

## Use QPST to update EFS

Install and run QPST. It should automatically detect your phone.

Click the "Start Clients" tab, then select Software Download

Select your modified qcn file and click start. It may reach 100% quickly, but it will still be working until the exit button is not greyed out.

## Reboot phone

# Celebrate! (Or retry if not successful, sometimes it takes a few tries to get it right)

### Credit to http://www.miuitutorial.com/2016/10/imei-xiaomi-mi4c-kamu-hilang-jangan.html and Defforest@enMiuiForum

# Answer
> 1 votes
**What you need**.

* Download MTK Droid Root & tools.
* A Windows computer.
* Have already set USB Debugging mode enabled on your device.
* A USB cable.
* Have setup ADB & Fasboot on your PC.

**Instructions**.

1. Connect your device to PC, then launch MTK Droid Root & Tools.
2. Droid Root and Tools will detect your Android device.
3. If your device is detected, you will see its IMEI on the Phone Information tab on the droid root and tool interface.
4. Then find the Root button that's located on the lower right side of the interface.
5. Select Yes button if asked whether you wish to Root. You will see Root Shell Script Access.
6. Then you'll see a window box named Change IMEI, Backup/Restore, NVRAM.
7. Now replace the IMEI on the window box with the IMEI number from the rear side of your Android device.
8. Then choose Yes. Reboot your device for the changes to apply and finish.

I got the instructions from the following page; repair MTK IMEI, that page contains pictures to clearer its point.

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, sim-card, imei, dual-sim
---


title: How Do Custom Support So Many Phones?

text:
# Question
Title: How Do Custom Support So Many Phones?
The other day, my friend told me that completely stock Android could run as a ROM on any device you care to mention. Since basically everyone else has told me otherwise, I decided to verify his claim and stumbled accross this Android Enthusiasts StackExchange thread.

I accepted the answer that was marked as correct, but it got me thinking. If stock android cannot be run on any device, how do custom ROMs like CyanogenMod or anything else support so many phones? Thanks.

# Answer
> 4 votes
CyanogenMod/LineageOS and other custom ROMs can't run on every device either. They have different versions for different devices. For example check this list for the newest LineageOS-compatible devices.

The same version can't work on every device, because the operating system (in this case the android) have to include the drivers for the specific device it will ran on. An android version which would include all the drivers would be illogically huge.

# Answer
> -1 votes
It depends what do you mean with "stock Android" you two didn't understand each other I think. I'll explain you how some things work so you can understand what's going on: It's about how you define "stock Android" if by stock you mean the one shipped with phone (Samsung, LG etc.) or you think on pure Android aka AOSP. The stock Android is placed on nexus/pixel devices Motorola and few others, other manufacturers use Android but the add something their theming and such things (Samsung - TouchWiz, Huawei - emui and so on..) so it's stock on that phones. So if you take any rom of Samsung and try to install it on any other phone you will fail. Android is just a system it needs drivers so it can communicate with hardware, it's not like on PC where you install OS and then search for drivers (until windows 7, linux is some other story). Android ROM is like it Windows XP is made for only one configuration for example "x" cpu, "y" gpu, "z" hard disk and also particular manufacturer and it won't work if there is "w" cpu instead of "x". With custom ROMs things go like this: lineage os provides source code for operating system and other users who may or may not have contributed to making lineage os are providing so called "device trees" and kernel source code (published by phone manufacturers but sometimes needs some changes to make things work, also unique for every model of phone so one can't be used in two or more different models), so lineage os source code, device tree, and kernel sources are used to make rom - compile it for particular phone model, there are also proprietary files which are files used by some hardware but it's not open source so you need to extract it from phone. So no rom can be used on two or more different models even if are they from same manufacturer.

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, custom-roms
---


title: S8 rooted, Netflix is now incompatible

text:
# Question
Title: S8 rooted, Netflix is now incompatible
So I rooted my phone yesterday and now Netflix has been uninstalled. It says it's incompatible with my phone, please help.

# Answer
Netflix does not allow being installed on a rooted device. If you manage to install it, it will refise to run (flash black and exit).

If you insist on installing it from Google Play, unroot your device first.

If you insist on letting it run well without unrooting your phone, consider using some Xposed modules (e.g. RootCloak).

Alternatively, you can unroot your phone then root it again with Magisk, as suggested by *Matthew Read*. However I haven't tested this method personally and I can't guarantee it'll be working.

References: , , , Google Search
> 0 votes

# Answer
Auto-uninstall shouldn't be possible; fresh installs can be prevented, and the app can block access, but I don't believe there is a (non-root) method for an app to remove itself.

That said, I run Netflix on my rooted device without issue. You might be able to install it from elsewhere, such as from APKMirror, and continue using it.

You could also flash your device back to stock and then use Magisk to root instead, which tricks the SafetyNet root detector thus Netflix will still run. This link has instructions.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: root-access, netflix
---


# Question
Title: Nexus 7 + Windows 7 = "A device attached to the system is not functioning." when transferring files from Nexus to Windows
I connected a Nexus 7 (rooted Android 4.4.2) to my laptop (Windows 7 SP1 x64 Ultimate). I see Nexus 7 in Windows Explorer and can browse the files in the Nexus 7, but when I tried to move files from Nexus to Windows I get the following error from Windows Explorer:

Reconnecting the Nexus 7 didn't help. Restarting Windows 7 did solve the issue, but I'm curious to know what can caused this error.

# Answer
If you haven't already, try a different USB port and make sure your Nexus is unlocked. Afterwards get the newest Google USB drivers and manually replace the drivers through Device Manager.
> 1 votes

# Answer
using another cable solved this problem for me.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: nexus-7, windows
---


# Question
Title: Turn off notifications for old unread emails and only keep for new emails in gmail
I'm using Gmail on Android 6.0 and almost every time gmail fetch new emails I have notification about old unread emails, each time I got new email the number get bigger (40 right now on my not gmail email that I've got spam sent).

I don't want to click on each email to maker it as read.

Is there a way to turn off notifications for old unread emails and only keep the ones that are for new emails.

# Answer
As confirmed , the solution that worked is posted below

You can try . I prefer Macrodroid, being easy to learn and free (upto 5 macros)

Create a macro

**Trigger:** Notification → Notification received → Select Application → Gmail → Text content contains → Enter here the text you see on the unread notifications

**Actions:**

1. Clear Notifications → Clear all
2. *Optional if you don't want notification sound* Volume Change → Set notification on slider scale to zero

**Constraints :** Leave blank
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, notifications, gmail
---


# Question
Title: Why won't Android switch between wi-fi and 3G seamlessly?
I don't even know whether this is a good question. But it's annoying me and I don't get why it works so badly for me, and it's annoying me that I don't get it.

Point is, when switching from one mobile cell to another, you don't notice, right? The internet connection just continues. There's no noticeable interruption. Even if the cells use a different technology, like HSPA, GPRS and whatever there is. But when switching to wi-fi or back, there's a dropout. A loading web page will say that there is no connection available and stop trying to load. An online game will kick you out immediately, probably discards your progress and asks if you want to reload the game (like Clash of Clans).

When switching between connection types, there's a hard drop. Being able to freely use hundreds of wi-fi access points during a trip is completely useless! While I think the whole purpose of public wi-fi access points is a strong and reliable internet connection, the result is exactly the opposite! (unless you stay in one spot with strong connection to one of them of course).

I asked myself why this was the way it worked when I had my first smartphone, with Android 2.3. I'm using my fifth now, with 5.1.1, and the problem is still exactly the same. How is this possible? Doesn't anyone care? Isn't there some internet connection layer in Android that applications communicate with, regardless of connection type? Or why is there no option to use mobile and wi-fi connections simultaneously? I would be okay with it if switching network type would cause a small delay, but instead it's just immediately dropping dead, destroying partially loaded stuff.

I can think of several solutions, none of which anyone seems to have worked on. Maybe the apps shouldn't be programmed to whine that much about connectivity. But still, if the connection you're using (either cell or wi-fi) just doesn't have any throughput for a second, that's no problem at all. Unless it switches to another type! Even though that might be done in a second as well. How do apps even know the difference? IMO, they really shouldn't. Or is it the case that Android always turns off mobile data as soon as it starts connecting with wi-fi, even though the connection isn't established yet? That would be extremely stupid.

Meanwhile, my 'workaround' is a terrible one: just switch off wi-fi while I'm moving. But obviously I forget that pretty often, or forget to turn it back on when I'm home.

Can anyone shed some light on the matter for me?

# Answer
**TL;DR:** When you switch internet connections you get another IP address, the online services have to drop and re-authenticate because it is the only way to know who you are from a new IP. It has nothing to do with Android.

---

It has nothing to do with Android, and everything to do with how TCP connections and IP addresses work.

When you switch cell towers, the cell provider servers re-route your cellular communications (including your internet traffic) to the next tower, but **the provider servers KNOW you are you** (from the IMEI of your phone and your SIM card), and the fact you switched cell towers is not transparent to the internet. You remain with the same IP address (most of the time), and all your connections are kept alive.

This same effect can be achieved with your home wi-fi, if you have a repeater in distinct rooms and just move around. The DHCP of your home router will remember your machine (from the wi-fi MAC address), and just redirect your traffic to the other repeater.

When you switch from 3G to WIFI, you are getting your traffic to another network device, another network entirely. Your IP address changes. **The services you were connected to have no chance to tell you are you**. And it is a good thing otherwise anyone on the net could impersonate you on facebook (or any other online service for the matter). "Whining about connectivity" is actually caring for your security and online identity.

So you have a hard drop. The apps have to re-authenticate themselves, to show that it is still you, and not another person.

The same issue would happen if you were traveling with a PC laptop and jumping from hotspot to hotspot.
> 4 votes

# Answer
I agree and disagree. I have a voip app. On iPhone the handover is fast enough that you can continue a call. On android the call is dropped while the app reconnects.

The aggressive wifi to mobile handover option has no effect. Reading on the option it would seem to merely drop the wifi in favour of mobile data at a higher rss.
> -1 votes

# Answer
Enable and open Developer Options and toggle the option that says "Wi-Fi and Network Always On" or "Aggressive Wi-Fi to Cellular Handover" for faster switching.
> -2 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, connection-issues, cellular-radio
---


# Question
Title: WhatsApp saving contacts with nicknames in a group
for the 99.99% of it - I am pretty sure the answer is No because it'd violate privacy norms - but in my school reunion whatsApp group - I have nicknamed my school mate contacts pretty badly ( gave those nicknames to those contacts ) . I'd assume they'd not see "how I refer to them" but just wanted to check

# Answer
You are right absolutely

Contacts in your phonebook can be named differently or nicknamed as you did in WhatsApp. These nicknames are not shown to your contacts

As far as your group contacts are concerned, they will see your name as they saved in their phonebook / or nicknamed. If they did not save your number, the profile name which you added for yourself on your profile photo, is displayed to them as clarified in WhatsApp FAQ

> This name will only appear for contacts who do not already have your contact info saved in their phone's address book.

So your WhatsApp nicknames are safe from exposure
> 2 votes

---
Tags: settings, whatsapp-messenger, privacy, contact-groups
---


# Question
Title: Lost my phone without GPS & data plan on
*I have checked other questions on the site and I think my question is not completely duplicate*

I have lost my OnePlus 2; it is in different country (Indonesia) and I have no way to contact any authority over there. Fortunately, I had local SIM in that which is ringing once a while.

As, my phone contains some **very** personal images, so, I opted to erase content via Google Android Device Manager. Now, my questions are:

1. Is it possible to unlock phone with any software? As android manager says that data will be wiped out as soon as my phone will be connected to internet. But, I am worried if it possible for anyone to unlock my phone. (I had 3\*3 pattern lock).
2. What else precaution I can take care to avoid any personal data loss? I am mostly worried about pictures.

# Answer
> 1 votes
**Question 1**

Theoretically not possible for an ordinary thief - it is enough of a deterrence. If the thief stole it from you, with an express international of gaining access to that data and he has sophisticated tools at his disposal, then you need to be worried. But going by your description, it is unlikely. There are also other factors involved, which you can see in this SE.Security question Is Android's Password Screen Lock Enough Data Theft Protection?, which explains in detail how it is possible for a determined person

In security parlance *Physical possession is ownership* is often said, but that's the worst case scenario

**Question 2**

Sorry to say but there is nothing you can do, till the thief chimed to internet and device is wiped.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Unfortunately,the thief can flash any suitable ROM on your device, bypassing the lock security and device administrator privileges. He/She can then access your data(while remaining disconnected from the internet).

Now there's very little you can do to avoid that! So these types of "security apps" that rely on the internet and GPS are worthless most of the time.

To avoid these types of problem in the future,encrypt your data,which is available inside security settings of your android phone.

---
Tags: security, lock-screens, lost-phone, android-device-manager, gps-tracking
---


# Question
Title: Popup at boot, warning about unspecified "problem"
A few days ago my device (oneplus one with cyanogen) started showing this popup at boot, is there a way to diagnose this unspecified "problem"?

# Answer
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-9/development/fix-build-prop-variety-fix-aka-contact-t3133347/page7

Have a look at this. It's the same issue,but with a different device(nexus 9). My advice for you would be to ask(post) in the above page, about whether or not you can safely flash the given fix without bricking your device. If not, then would it be possible for them to modify the fix(zip file), and make it suitable for your oneplus one.

Good luck.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, boot, oneplus-one
---


# Question
Title: Could a faulty SIM card cause my android to spontaneously reboot
My android (Sony Xperia 10a) spontaneously reboots on a 1m to 15m cycle. I had a Nokia before and I think it rebooted more often than expected as well. My Google contacts, a SIM and AT&T are the only things I brought forward from one to the other so I suspect all three.

Does anyone know if a bad SIM can cause rebooting?

# Answer
> 1 votes
yes, I have had a windows 8 phone crash and switch off with extreme frequency- got new sim card issued by supplier and phone now totally reliable. it's the simplest thing to check and it doesn't require you to do the whole backup and restore thing.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Perhaps it could but not in this case. I'm going to go with faulty hardware and here's why. I have tried the following:

Action.... Rationale

* full reset ... installed too many apps and corrupted OS?
* full reset and reformat memory card ... corrupt file system on mem card?
* full reset and don't use a memory card ... defective mem card? new sim card ... bad sim?
* full reset + new google account ... bad data in google account?
* full reset + original google account but do not activate any location awareness ... suspect GPS issue

In each case I can get the phone to fail in 5-45 minutes and usually within 20m as long as I'm tranferring some data via 3g (youtube, downloads etc).

So, since I have swapped out everything except the physical phone hardware the problem must lay in the device itself. Glad there's a manufacturer's warranty

# Answer
> 1 votes
Had these symptoms on a Samsung S3 Neo, pretty sure its the card because it does the same in my older phone but only when using 3/4G. Interestingly it only happens when the battery is below 80% for some reason.

Also had the same problem on older non-smart phones, the guy at the shop asked "what had I done to it" because it refused point blank to even see the card at all. Best guess is ESD but yet the card worked fine in the same phone for years without issue.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Yes, it happned to me on my Samsung galaxy 6, i change sim card and it's work again

# Answer
> 0 votes
I have an LG G4 that suddenly refused to turn on. I used my insurance and got a new unit sent out, swapped out my battery and SIM, and had the same thing start happening with the new unit. The tech at Verizon said it might be a battery issue, so I went and spent $43 on a new battery. No go. Still the same issue, plus the battery wouldn't charge, even when the phone was off.

At this point, the only original part on my phone is the SIM, so back to Verizon I go tonight see if they can/will replace the SIM.

---
Tags: reboot, sim-card
---


# Question
Title: How to disable notifications about phone being in DND mode?
I use DND mode a lot with my Galaxy S6 edge, every day at work to avoid getting interrupted by phone calls, messages, etc.

It has been working great, up until the most recent Android update (I got v7 a week or two ago).

What happens now is that 10-20 times per day, the phone shows a notification "your phone is in DND mode and you might miss calls". As if I didn't know that? That's the whole reason I put it in DND.

Anyway, this notification keeps coming back constantly and needs to be clicked on to make it go away. It is quite annoying.

I did some google searching but couldn't find an instruction for how to turn off this notification.

It seems to come back every 30 minutes or so, roughly.

# Answer
> 1 votes
This is usually caused by applications such as *peel remote*. As a solution try disabling the application.

Try disabling the app:

* To disable an app, go to Settings √ Apps √ Applications √ Peel Smart remote then choose option.
* Alternatively deactivate it in drawer; Go to the app drawer, tap Edit, you will see minus sign besides the given app at the top-right of the screen: When you select the minus sign, you will see the selected app no longer in the background. You will also stop receiving any updates which also stops unnecessary drain on resources.

---
Tags: notifications, notification-bar, do-not-disturb
---


# Question
Title: Do some localizations of Android require significantly more memory?
This is something that I only recently noticed but many Android phones are built amounts of RAM that differ yet different versions are not distributed equally. For example, my phone from Spain has 2 GB of RAM but when bought in Asia comes with 3 GB. Internal storage is treated differently such that there are 16 GB and 32 GB versions available on both markets.

The recent Moto Z2 does the same thing. North America and Europe get a 4 GB version while in Asia, it comes with 6 GB.

Why the difference? Why offer not offer both at different price-points? Does Android require that much more memory when dealing with large character sets such as Chinese?

# Answer
> 2 votes
### Yes.

Adding to *Andy Yan*'s answer, I would like to bring up another reason: **The absence of Google**.

Because the China government, driven by an evil party, does not like Google, all Google's services are blocked in China, except for Ads, Maps and Translate (the only 3 availables). Apps using GCM or any other kind of Google service will not function correctly on that part, so Chinese companies pretty much have made their own "chain services" for IPC and push notifications. These services however, does *not* comply with Google's developing standards, nor do they follow the general rules of UX and memory management. Most of them keep themselves in background by creating extra processes and use those to wake themselves up periodically, taking extra RAM, which dramatically decreases battery life and hurts UX.

Even worse, instead of having one service family exist, big Chinese companies are making their own service families one by one. So Alibaba has an Ali Service, Baidu has a Baidu Service, Tencent has a Tencent Services, and even Xiaomi has a Mi Eco Services. To make things worse, one Chinese app may use multiple services at once. Even if an app is calling a small function from a Chinese service, it may potentially wake up all apps using that service (unless terminated), and can eat up your RAM in a few seconds.

As China is a growing producer, Chinese products are selling abroad, especially South Asia (India) and Africa. By selling phones without GMS, the aforementioned Chinese service families are also spreading abroad, damaging UX to those users. However, situations seems better outside China because most foreigners do not use Chinese daily services like IM (WeChat and QQ) and online shopping (Taobao and Jingdong), and fortunately the services they use (WhatsApp and Amazon) don't utilize the Chinese services. So markets in India and Africa don't get *that* much "inflated".

# Answer
> 1 votes
Asians, especially a significant portion of Chinese and Indians, take raw specs very importantly when considering devices for purchase. With local competitors like Xiaomi upping their game aggressively, 2GB RAM for low-end / 4GB RAM for high-end is no longer considered acceptable.

This is more than just a marketing move - apps made by local developers and companies tend to not comply with Android standards both in UI/UX design and in task/memory management. Apps would try the most devious methods to stay at the front - e.g. creating a transparent 1px floating window - just so it will not be killed by built-in memory management and consistently deliver push notifications and advertisements. Such chaotic environment with many apps constantly running in the foreground and competing for resources is detrimental to RAM usage, so having a larger RAM capacity to compensate is often considered necessary.

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Tags: ram
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