# Question
Title: How can I get notifications from two Android phones to one Android Wear watch?
I have a Nexus 5 as my personal phone, a Samsung Galaxy S5 as my work phone, and an LG Urbane watch.

Currently my watch is linked to the Nexus 5 and due to Android Wear limitations it seems I can't connect a second phone to it. Surprisingly it doesn't look like I can find any workaround anywhere online to force the watch to allow multiple connections, however I'm sure there is some way I can at least get limited functionality.

So my question is does anyone know how I could get this to work? The two phones are ALWAYS together so I was hoping for something even as bare minimum as call and text notifications on the Samsung being forwarded over bluetooth to the Nexus that will then send it to the watch.

My Nexus has all the fun Android Wear stuff on it, I just need call/text/email notifications from the Samsung, I don't even need to be able to interact with them, just need to see it. Also rooting may be possible if required, for any device watch included. And I'm okay with paid apps (free is better) but monthly charges are a no-go ever.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There are a number of applications in the Play Store which are designed to allow a tablet to send/receive SMS/MMS via a connected phone. If you connect your watch-connected phone as the "tablet", you should at least be able to get notifications for some subset of events to show on your watch.

Caveat - I have used Tablet Talk for this purpose on a non-android wear watch, but not recently, and I don't recall all the limitations.

---
Tags: notifications, nexus-5, samsung-galaxy-s-5, android-wear
---


# Question
Title: Where Can I Find The Bootanimation.zip For A ROM On GitHub
I'm looking for a bootanimation.zip from the latest Dirty Unicorns ROM. However, I don't want to download the ROM, TWRP backup, wipe, install, extract bootanimation.zip, wipe, TWRP restore just to get it.

I was hoping to download it directly from GitHub. However, the ROM source code is split into loads of repos and I don't know where to look.

Where in the source tree and in which repo is the bootanimation.zip typically stored?

# Answer
The bootanimation.zip will not be present in the Android Source Code or the kernel source code..

It's gets included from the vendor blobs while building the system.img ..

So, you'll have to check the corresponding ROM's vendor repository..

For CyanogenMod, it's here: https://github.com/CyanogenMod/android\_vendor\_cyanogen/tree/master/prebuilt

For Dirty Unicorns, it's here: https://github.com/DirtyUnicorns/android\_vendor\_du/tree/m/prebuilt/common/media

For Paranoid Android, it's here: https://github.com/AOSPA/android\_vendor\_pa/tree/nougat/prebuilt/bootanimation

For Pac ROM: https://github.com/PAC-ROM/android\_vendor\_pac/tree/pac-6.0/prebuilt/common/media

(These links are subject to change, please edit if there's any change or to add any other ROM's link)
> 2 votes

---
Tags: boot-animation
---


# Question
Title: How to keep my screen light on during the call (Nexus 4, Android 5.1.1)
I have a Nexus 4 (Android 5.1.1). My proximity sensor does not work well. I don't have any cover. The distance it detects is always 0 cm.

1. One solution I found is turn on "Power button ends call". However I need use my keyboard during the call.
2. I also tried some proximity sensor reset apps, but they do not work on my phone.
3. One solution I found is to keep the screen light on. But I don't have this setting on my phone.

Is there any other way to keep my screen light on during the call or other solutions? Thanks

# Answer
> 1 votes
I had the same issue and had to replace the sensor (I gave up on software solutions). The sensor is very easy to replace but you need to buy it (I received it from a broken Nexus 4, which had the sensor working fine!)

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, nexus-4
---


# Question
Title: Is there an Android equivalent to iOS's "CallKit"?
This actually seems like a very Android-like feature. When I heard about it, I thought there might be an Android equivalent.

It lets VoIP apps use the standard phone app to call/receive calls, integrating with the phone's contacts and recent calls list. Basically, it turns VoIP calls into regular phone calls (at least for apps that support it).

If there is nothing like this on Android, is there any indication that Google will add something like this to a future version?

# Answer
> 9 votes
Android does, but it's not very well documented. The ConnectionService class was introduced in Marshmallow and allows an app to register itself as a voice service, the user needs to manually enable the voice service through the phone settings (same place you would enable/disable SIP accounts).

Once this is done you can choose between registered voice services when placing a call using the native dialer, or set one as the default. Incoming calls to your voice service should also trigger the native dialer.

Side note, but also interesting, Marshmallow also introduced the ability to register your app as the default dialer too.

---
Tags: calls, hardware, voip
---


title: Root Galaxy S7 edge - KingRoot and knox

text:
# Question
Title: Root Galaxy S7 edge - KingRoot and knox
Is it possible to root the Galaxy S7 edge Exynos with KingRoot leaving knox to 0x0?

If not KingRoot there are other ways? (Not CF-auto-root as the knox bit will be 0x1)

My model is SM-G935F latest version released, European.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I haven't found any root method that will work, however there is currently an exploit being refined on XDA for the S7. This is the closest that anyone I've found has gotten, so feel free to follow along:

No KNOX Exynos root method via engKernel. Exynos testers needed.

---
Tags: rooting, 6.0-marshmallow, samsung-galaxy-s7
---


title: Usb Debbuging is not working

text:
# Question
Title: Usb Debbuging is not working
I have Samsung Galaxy J1 4G, Android 4.4.4 KitKat and Windows 7. Previously I have installed Intel App Preview, disabled and then enabled USB debugging and it works. Then, I uninstall and reinstall Intel App Preview and USB debugging is not working.

# Answer
I experienced a similar problem, I solved by remove and install samsung drivers from my computer. In order to see if it is a 'driver problem' try to connect your phone in debug mode to another pc, better if it is running linux.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, adb, windows, usb-debugging, samsung-galaxy-j1
---


title: Connect NFC to Galaxy S5

text:
# Question
Title: Connect NFC to Galaxy S5
I have a Galaxy S5 and 6 NFC chips:

I want to write text to those NFC chips. I've already tried 2 apps: NFC Tools and Trigger. None of these apps hadn't recognized those NFC chips.

How can I read these NFC chips and write text on it through my Galaxy S5 device?

# Answer
They seem like ordinary RFID chips. (I want to make emphasis on "LOOKS LIKE", cause I cant tell for sure).

NFC operates on 13.56Mhz and those seem like ordinary RFID tags (125KHZ tags, with no memory)

I could be wrong since form factor, is not the only matter to identify them. They also could be an NFC tag not compatible with your phone, but they should come up saying "tag not compatible".

Have you tried: NFC tools, its a free app from the market, It could get some information out of it, if not: IT LOOKS like a regular RFID tag. (do you have the link for those tags, from where you bought them?)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-5, nfc
---


title: Android system update over lte

text:
# Question
Title: Android system update over lte
I need some help regarding updating my Nexus 6p to Android nougat over lte connection. My lte connection is excellent with unlimited data plan, but Google seems to be tying my hands by forcing me to go for a WiFi network, which obviously I don't have an access to at present. Is there any way to force the update over my lte connection. Thanks

# Answer
> 0 votes
You could download the OTA zip file from Google, then flash it using ADB commands which are in the Android SDK, so you'd need a computer as well: Official Google OTA link

*Taken from the above link:*

To apply an OTA update image:

1. Download the appropriate update image for your device.
2. Verify the checksum of the image: the OTA mechanism has a built-in validation feature, however verifying would save you some time in case the file was incomplete. The last portion of the filename is the first 8 digits of its SHA-256 checksum; the full SHA-256 checksum is also shown next to the download link.
3. With the device powered on and USB debugging enabled, execute:

> adb reboot recovery

The device is now in recovery mode and an Android logo with red exclamation mark should appear on screen.

4. Hold Power button and press Volume Up once, and a menu will be shown. Select the option of

> Apply update from ADB
5. Run the following command:

> adb sideload (ota file.zip)

where (ota file.zip) is replaced with the file you have downloaded and verified. Once the update finishes, you should reboot the phone by choosing:

> Reboot the system now

---
Tags: ota-update
---


title: How to you become a ROOT Shell user?

text:
# Question
Title: How to you become a ROOT Shell user?
So I am rooted and used a root checker to give me some good information about my device. I noticed when it gave me info about my root it told me that I was a "non-root" shell user.

So what does this mean? Can I possibly make it to where I AM a root shell user? I am a very curious person. ANY information would be greatly appreciated!

# Answer
> 1 votes
Is this a stock ROM or a custom ROM?

In the stock ROM you would edit the build.prop and change the entry for `ro.secure=1` to `ro.secure=0` and reboot.

In most custom ROMs, and some stock ROMs, there is an entry in Developer Options called "Root access" and by default it is set to Apps only, you should be able to change it to Apps and ADB.

There is also an app called adb Insecure by Chainfire (the author of SuperSU) which can allow adb shell su access.

BTW, this information is easily accessible via Google, and the previous question here at Why can't I get root access from shell?

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, root-access, shell
---


# Question
Title: Made a Backup with TWRP, but the backup was moved to my computer. Can I still flash?
So I bricked my Galaxy S6 by wiping the system, data, boot, and all that. Before though, I made a nandroid backup and move the files to my MAC in a folder. But when I try putting the nandroid files back into the empty SD card, I won't show up in the "Restore" option! The kinds of files look like these,

I just want to restore the rom files. Not the data, how would I do this on a mac? I am currently using JOdin. Could I install md5 through TWRP? Is that even possible?? Please help!

# Answer
> 2 votes
My experience tells me that for TWRP to detect backup files the latter should be in a directory whose name would be shown as the name of the backup and that directory in turn should be under:

```
/sdcard/TWRP/BACKUPS/<serial>/

```

Here, replace `<serial>` with the serial number of your device. You can find the serial number of your device using the command:

```
getprop ro.serialno   # prefix *adb shell*, as appropriate

```

E.g. my backup files for the backup named *13-09-2016.Weekly* are under:

```
/sdcard/TWRP/BACKUPS/X1JE45FGI3/13-09-2016.Weekly/

```

---
Tags: rooting, rom-flashing, twrp, stock-rom, nandroid
---


title: LOTS of red pixels Meizu M2

text:
# Question
Title: LOTS of red pixels Meizu M2
I've had lots of red pixels with my Meizu M2 (Flyme 5.1.6.0G) when I increased luminosity
I tried JScreenFix with luminosity at 100% but I just got some more when luminosity is at 0%...
Anyone knows how to fix this ?
Thanks.

PS: It does not appear in screenshots

# Answer
I just had to make the color temperature a bit colder... and I see no red pixels, and rarely some blue ones !
> -1 votes

---
Tags: graphics
---


title: How can I remove viruses?

text:
# Question
Title: How can I remove viruses?
My dad's phone got infected with a virus. The virus will auto enable the WIFI despite after disabling it for a few seconds. Factory restore doesn't work too, the virus came back. I have installed antivirus such as kaspersky, norton, and dr web. They are all unable remove the virus, it re-install itself after removal. It's running on android 4.4.

Here is the screen shot of what dr web's report

It keeps downloading back these applications

Can anyone please advice me on what to do?

# Answer
Looks like mobile is infected with Ghost Push.

Solution for Rooted phones:

1 - You can use apps like StubbornTorjanKiller.

2 - You can also remove malware manually as you know the names of infected application.

* First Download Terminal Emulator And run following commands.
* `su`

`rm /system/app/weQR.apk`

`rm /system/app/browser_1.6.2.1sign.apk` (write name of app exactlly as your screenshot)

repeat rm with path of infected 5 apps shown in above screenshot.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Like above ...

If the file is persistent or un-deletable (usually the associated binary files under system \> bin)
You need to use a Chattr first ..

---

`busybox chattr -ia /system/bin/viralFile`

---

and then

---

`rm /system/bin/viralFile`

---

This is helpful for force removing virus or non-deletable files, like most people on here that have used KingRoot or similar programs, it's a last option for hard to remove files !
> 1 votes

# Answer
Okay this will be tricky. It looks like the virus somehow gained superuser privilages and made those apps become system apps. System apps cannot be removed because well, they are now system apps! BUT, if you have root access, you can manually remove the viruses. With ROOT/Superuser access, you can use root apps on the play store to possible remove those viruses.

If you phone is NOT ROOTED however, I recommend you use "Malwarebytes". It is avalible on the play store and has been know to remove more viruses than those other virus removing apps that claim to be the best.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, root-access, troubleshooting, antivirus
---


title: Nexus 7 2013 USB connection failed

text:
# Question
Title: Nexus 7 2013 USB connection failed
I've used my Nexus to test CM and other ROMs before; but now with 6.0.1, I simply can't get it to work with USB neither under Windows or Linux.

On Lubuntu it says:

```
[  36.853678] usb 3-1: new full-speed USB device number 6 using xhci_hcd
[  36.965697] usb 3-1: device descriptor read/64, error -71
[  37.181684] usb 3-1: device descriptor read/64, error -71
[  37.941764] usb 3-1: Device not responding to setup address.

```

On Windows 10, it is Unknown USB Device (Device Descriptor Request Failed).

I've tried 3 cables and 3 other devices (Windows Phone, Android), everything else is working. I've opened up and cleaned the USB port, nothing happened. The device charges successfully.

I have installed all Google Drivers and whatnot, adb and fastboot doesn't see the device - not in normal mode, not in recovery mode.

If I connect the device, it will not show the USB connection options on Android.

Any suggestions?

# Answer
> 0 votes
it turned out it was a cable issue. still amazing - all other usb2 devices worked correctly, but the nexus 7. 4th cable to the rescue.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, usb, nexus-7
---


# Question
Title: Android 7, Firefox OS and Tizen in MultiROM Manager on Nexus 5
Here is my question about problem with Plasma Mobile. As you can see I have updated Nexus 5 and prepared MultiROM setup without problem. Until now I found and do:

1. Android 6.01 (Internal - updated in Android settings)
2. Firefox OS v0.4 (20140603) installed from this thread
3. Salfish OS installed from this wiki
4. \[IN PROGRESS\] Plasma Mobile install (problem in separate question)

I see in Salfish settings that there are no updates.
I know that Google will not reloase Android 7 for Nexus 5.
I know that Firefox OS had last update in last year (2.6.0)

With all this in mind I have the following questions:

1. Is it possible to install Andorid 7 as an external ROM in MultiROM OS (from zip file)?
2. Is there any updates for Firefox OS image for Nexus 5 (zip file)?
Note: I have a problem with Firefox OS. I can't load any web page and Firefox Marketplace, but I think it's because of not updated certificates list.
3. Is there any Tizen image (zip file) for Nexus 5?
Note: Of course I searched before asking, but found only install tutorial for Nexus 7.

Can you link to (newer) images (zip files for MultiROM) and/or tutorials with them?

**Update**:
I do some search (XDA-Developers forums):

1. I think Tizen work only Samsung devices, but I'm not sure if build it is possible on other phones.
2. I found FirefoxOS from June 2016 and have too old certyficates problem. I can access sites with http protocol without problem (unless them allows to https). In new wersion (pre-release 2.6.0) I don't have Firefox Marketplace (no icon in launcher - maybe it's hidden somewhere ...) and can't change language in settings (empty list).
3. I found Android 7, but it's problematic with MultiROM setup.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Android 7 won't get a official rom from google u need to get a ported version or instal Cyanogenmod. FireOS is discontinued by mozilla. and tizel is samsung only. You can try Pac-Man rom.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, nexus-5, rom, multirom-manager
---


title: Kali Linux And Android

text:
# Question
Title: Kali Linux And Android
I like to root and tinker around with old Android devices, be it smartphones and tablets. I want to use root access to install Kali Linux, but I want to know what features this version of Kali Linux has to offer. I'm not expecting much, but the file size is pretty big, so it should be something.

wasn't sure if this can be posted here or on the Unix site.

# Answer
Kali is very popular and has pretty much any hacking tool u need. https://www.parrotsec.org is also a Security based linux distro there site has lists of everything they include.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: root-access, linux, dual-boot
---


# Question
Title: On TurboCharging, "Charging Slowly" message displayed on my phone Moto G4 Plus
My Moto G4 Plus has the turbo Charging(30 min Charge 80%) feature. But when I connect to a Turbocharger, I get a display message on my lock screen as "Charging Slowly". On connecting a general charger Phone charges as usual in 3 hrs. I am curious to know, with only the given knowledge, how can I predict whether the issue is in Mobile Phone Hardware or Software or the specific Turbo Charger.

# Answer
> 1 votes
* Moto phones are quite close to Nexus phones or *pure android* as commonly referred to, so the explanation below is valid
* See Android phone "charging slowly": How to make it faster, for reasons on why *charging slowly* is displayed, in particular Andrew's excellent answer. To summarise, *fast charging/ Turbo charging* is achieved by increasing voltage or current or both, i.e. *wattage* ( being the product of current and voltage), as compared to conventional charging. Andrew's answer explains the values for which such notification appears ( Nexus phone on linked question uses a different type of which charging compared to your device, but that is a minor detail, since OS is flashing the notification based on wattage values and not on *type* of quick charging)
* So, the most likely cause IMO, is that your Turbo charger is not working well or it is not receiving adequate voltage ( connect through a voltage stabiliser, avoiding extension boxes). You can verify otherwise by going to service centre and checking with the Turbo charger sample.

Do revert with your findings

**Edit**: I own Moto X Play and the charging cable is fused with the charger. If your charging cable can be detached from charger, try replacing with a good charging cable, to eliminate cable issue

# Answer
> 1 votes
I just hit the same issue. Check that you are using the microUSB cable that came with the Turbo Power charger. I had accidentally switched around my USB cables with a generic one, and noticed that my phone was charging slowly, even after reseating both cable connectors. When I replaced the generic cable with the original cable, it enabled TurboPower charging straight away.

Not sure if this is a case of the cheap cable having thinner power lines (i.e. higher resistance) or if the charger detects that this is the "right" cable. The original cable has a longer plastic lump on the microUSB end than the generic one, and it could be that there is a bit of circuitry in there that is needed for the phone to negotiate the faster charge with the charger, or that the phone checks whether the cable has a low enough resistance on the power lines to support higher current charging. If someone has access to the spec for Quick Charge 3.0 (a Qualcomm chipset feature which looks to be marketed as TurboPower by Motorola) feel free to revise this answer with the real deal.

FWIW, unless your mains connection is bad to the point of arcing, or you are in a severe brown-out, the power draw from the charger is not enough to see any problems from mains extension cords or power boards. These are the output specs from the product page for Motorola's TurboPower 15 wall charger:

```
Standard:   5V / 1.67A (8W)
TurboPower: 9V / 1.67A (15W)
TurboPower: 12V / 1.2A (15W)

```

So unless the voltage is very low due to some large load on the same power board, or a mains plug is making poor contact, it is unlikely that the charger will have problems drawing ~200mA from the mains.

---
Tags: charging, motorola
---


# Question
Title: Android 6+ and account permissions: where have they gone to?
I was just browsing the Android Developers Permissions list, and noticed most of the account permissions are gone – in fact, all but `GET_ACCOUNTS` as it seems. What does that mean, what implications does it have to the end-user – and what else got messed up (apart from the fact there's *practically* no `INTERNET` permission anymore)?

As usual, I tried my best Google-Fu but found no answers. Instead, some unanswered questions asking the same. I cannot put it into better words than these:

> Marshmallow dropped several Account permissions, including MANAGE\_ACCOUNTS and USE\_CREDENTIALS, but kept GET\_ACCOUNTS. I haven't seen much documentation of what this means for the user in practice, though. I assume that the app that creates an account can automatically use/manage it. However, if a 3rd party app wants to log in with a Google/Facebook/etc account that it did *not* create:
>
> * Does it still have to request my interaction/approval the first time each account is accessed/used, or can it just use my accounts automatically now?
> * If I deny the GET\_ACCOUNTS permission, can the app still prompt me to log in with an account from my Nexus? Or do I have to grant the app permission to view all of my accounts in order to let it use one of them?

Additionally: if access to accounts is still protected (which I hope it is!) – which permission is protecting it now?

---

Related questions (whose answers might need to be updated now):

---

### Summing up information collected in the (cleaned-up) comments

The following details came up in the comments. They are not answering my question, but give valuable hints – which is why I'm including them with my question (credits given to their authors):

* "there's *practically* no `INTERNET` permission": It's still there, but automatically granted to each app. No way to revoke it with on-board tools/settings. Which is why I linked to In Android 6, how to deny an app permission to access the network? above. Why that's important? See below.
* Dan Brown points out that access to accounts is now bound to some `_CONTACTS` permission. Indeed, using an app to "login with Google" prompts: "Allow X to access your contacts?"
It's not clear whether you grant read access only (bad enough) or even write access. So now even a cloud storage app (like Dropbox, Mega, etc) gets access to your contacts – which is why always granting `INTERNET` becomes a privacy nightmare.
As it's now obvious this part of the account permissions went to contacts (kudos to Dan for the pointer!), I'd really like to read some details on that: how was it changed, why was it changed, what are the implications, how to deal with it.
**Update:** As the latest version of the SE app no longer requires to access contacts, Dan created a dedicated question concerning this app on the main Meta, which might be worth checking: How does the new sign-in system work for the Android app? In short, they are using a new version of the "Google Sign In SDK", which no longer requires contacts access. As that only affects Google Sign-In, it doesn't answer my question, though.
* Dan also pointed out that apps use their own account managers. That was already the case before MM – and the reason why there was the `MANAGE_ACCOUNTS` permission (see above): they registered their service with Android, so other apps could use it.
* As I already mentioned with my question, `GET_ACCOUNTS` is the only surviving account permission. It was already required before MM, and probably still serves the same purpose: In order to use an account, our app first needs to know that it's there – so it has to obtain a list of available accounts to start with. If something has changed in this regard, please include it with your answers.

# Answer
The "dangerous" permissions are listed in Table 1 on this permissions page. There are also "normal" permissions, listed here. Normal permissions are automatically granted to the app.

The dangerous permissions are partitioned into groups. Before Android 6, the Android Store would present the list of groups (though it included "normal" permission, too) and you could either choose to download and accept all the permissions or not download. With Android 6, you accept the permission when you run the app, not when you download it. Rather than accept individual permissions you accept or deny an entire group.

When you run the app and grant a permission, the permission stays granted indefinitely. If you want to revoke it, you can. Go to Android Settings \> Apps \> your app \> Permissions. Then click the green slider-button for the permission you want to change.

As for the behavior in the app, the big change is from the developer's point of view. Before Android 6, the app did not need to check whether a permission was granted (all were automatically granted when you download the app). With Android 6, if the app has been granted a permission, it can do the associated action. If not, it will either crash or, if the developer wrote additional code, it may do something more elegant.

You do have concerns about account access. I'm not sure what to say except that with Android 6, the app cannot get account information without you accepting access to contacts. See the table.

This is a general answer and you many need to post more specific questions for additional details. Hope this helps.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, permissions, 7.0-nougat
---


# Question
Title: Photos sync - where did the files recover to?
I decided to try out Google's "Photos" sync, which can be enabled under account settings. After the sync finished, I did a factory reset on the device and let it restore the photos. It apparently did - they are viewable through the Google "Photos" app.

However, I can't find the files anywhere. Originally they were split into two files: DCIM/Camera and DCIM/Test. Now, DCIM is empty and, when viewing the entire set of thumbnails, it tells me there are no "Collections".

I most certainly expected it to restore the photos in the same structure as they were originally. Not only are the two subdirectories gone, I can't even find the png files. What am I not understanding?

I did this on a Moto G, running Android 6.0

# Answer
> 2 votes
From the photos app, you can't *recover* onto your device. You can only view them , the *restore* option is a misnomer as it does not really restore to your device:

From Google help, where a similar question is answered. This thread is recent and makes it clear that there is **no way** one can directly restore photos using the app. Options are:

* Use the *Google Drive* app to select and download the photos. Using a file manager, copy the photos in *downloads* to the directory you wish to (see Nicholas post of 11 Jun)
* From the *Photos* app, select and download ( of course, you will need to move them using a file manager - Krissy post of Jan 01)
* Use a PC to download from drive and move into desired folders or use third party apps that can facilitate downloading from the photos app

---
Tags: sync, photos
---


title: Google Contacts force-closes

text:
# Question
Title: Google Contacts force-closes
I just bought a new LG Nexus 5X. Stock 6.0.1, not rooted. For some reason, Google Contacts has been force-closing. Clearing its cache & data did not resolve it. I can't reproduce the issue in Safe Mode, so apparently it's caused by a 3rd party app. The only apps that have the ability to update contact information are Google Plus & Facebook Messenger. I tried uninstalling both, but the problem still occurred.

I also have Google Contacts installed on my LG G3 with all the same apps and it works fine. When I set up my 5X, I imported apps & data from my G3. I tried a factory reset yesterday and restored apps & data from my most recent Google backup of the device with no joy.

**EDIT**: I forgot to mention I'm able to access and edit my contacts via the contacts tab in Google Phone just fine.

I took a bug report, here's the crash info. No idea what it means. I hope someone has an idea.

```
------ SYSTEM LOG (logcat -v threadtime -d *:v) ------
--------- beginning of crash
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime: FATAL EXCEPTION: main
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime: Process: com.google.android.contacts, PID: 24506
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime: java.lang.RuntimeException: Unable to start activity ComponentInfo{com.google.android.contacts/com.android.contacts.activities.PeopleActivity}: android.content.ActivityNotFoundException: No Activity found to handle Intent { act=android.provider.action.QUICK_CONTACT flg=0x4000000 pkg=com.google.android.contacts (has extras) }
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread.performLaunchActivity(ActivityThread.java:2416)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread.handleLaunchActivity(ActivityThread.java:2476)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread.-wrap11(ActivityThread.java)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread$H.handleMessage(ActivityThread.java:1344)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.os.Handler.dispatchMessage(Handler.java:102)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.os.Looper.loop(Looper.java:148)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread.main(ActivityThread.java:5422)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at java.lang.reflect.Method.invoke(Native Method)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.android.internal.os.ZygoteInit$MethodAndArgsCaller.run(ZygoteInit.java:726)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.android.internal.os.ZygoteInit.main(ZygoteInit.java:616)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime: Caused by: android.content.ActivityNotFoundException: No Activity found to handle Intent { act=android.provider.action.QUICK_CONTACT flg=0x4000000 pkg=com.google.android.contacts (has extras) }
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Instrumentation.checkStartActivityResult(Instrumentation.java:1798)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Instrumentation.execStartActivity(Instrumentation.java:1512)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Activity.startActivityForResult(Activity.java:3930)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Activity.startActivityForResult(Activity.java:3890)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Activity.startActivity(Activity.java:4213)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Activity.startActivity(Activity.java:4181)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.android.contacts.common.util.ImplicitIntentsUtil.startActivityInApp(ImplicitIntentsUtil.java:75)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.android.contacts.activities.PeopleActivity.processIntent(PeopleActivity.java:294)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.android.contacts.activities.PeopleActivity.onCreate(PeopleActivity.java:233)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Activity.performCreate(Activity.java:6251)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.Instrumentation.callActivityOnCreate(Instrumentation.java:1107)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    at android.app.ActivityThread.performLaunchActivity(ActivityThread.java:2369)
07-11 17:18:54.398 24506 24506 E AndroidRuntime:    ... 9 more
07-11 17:24:34.384 28315 28653 E AndroidRuntime: FATAL EXCEPTION: Thread-3829
07-11 17:24:34.384 28315 28653 E AndroidRuntime: Process: com.paranoidgems.potential, PID: 28315
07-11 17:24:34.384 28315 28653 E AndroidRuntime: java.lang.NullPointerException: Attempt to invoke interface method 'java.util.Iterator java.util.List.iterator()' on a null object reference
07-11 17:24:34.384 28315 28653 E AndroidRuntime:    at com.paranoidgems.potential.i.run(BatteryStatusBroadcastReceiver.java:541)

```

# Answer
The problem was the Nova Launcher shortcut to Contacts. I removed the shortcut and added it again and all is well. I kinda feel dumb now.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Google Play Services is my suspected culprit. It has had some issues since the new update. Try clearing its cache and data. It may sign you out of any app that uses Google as login authentication, but may do the trick.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: crashes, google-contacts
---


title: No Android 7 upgrade for Nexus 6P?

text:
# Question
Title: No Android 7 upgrade for Nexus 6P?
My tablet (Nexus 9) downloaded and installed the android nougat over the air about a month back. But not my phone (Nexus 6p). It just upgraded to another version of Android 6 yesterday. Is it expected or something wrong?

# Answer
> 2 votes
I did some research and basically you need to give it a few days, if that doesn't help try flashing it. Here's a guide https://www.gottabemobile.com/2016/09/09/how-to-install-android-7-0-nougat-right-now/

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, device-firmware, nexus-6p, 7.0-nougat, nexus-9
---


# Question
Title: How can I remove the lock icon from Android lockscreen?
Here is an image for reference. I want to remove the three arrows that are pointing upwards. I have no problem with rooting my device. I just don't know where to find these thumbnails and delete them. Can anyone help me to locate them?Will their deletion pose any issues?

The app is native `keyguard.apk` and the image files are under `system/priv-app/keyguard.apk/res/drawable/ic_blinkscr_midbright.png`

I have download root explorer but it does not show any option to delete the file. It just shows open and extract option. I have no idea how to delete it.

# Answer
As you've already found the resource file to the arrow inside the APK, all you need to do now is to replace it with a transparent one. Root or custom recovery is required, and custom recovery is personally *recommended*, because there is a slight possibility that this will throw you into a bootloop, so having a backup in recovery prior to mods would be handy.

Sometimes simply extracting the APK, replacing it and repackaging it could work (this has been the case for me for simple framework mods). If custom recovery is available, trying this is fast and won't hurt.

The safer way is to decompile the package while keeping its signature. Virtuous Ten Studio is a friendly way to get your hands on this without getting lost in the command lines of APKTool - the site also has simple tutorials.

After modification and repackaging, overwrite the original one and set correct permissions (usually rw-r--r-- (0644)). Reboot for changes to take effect.

And at last - do not simply delete the file, or whenever the file is used, the app will error out, possibly leaving you with endless Force Close dialogs.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat, root-access, lock-screens
---


# Question
Title: Can I use an external USB Adapter with Airmon on Android?
I have an Android phone and it doesn't support monitor mode internally. I have an external Alfa AWUS036H and I ordered a cable for it to plug into my phone. My question is, what app should I use to put the external adaptor into monitor mode? I am rooted, but I refuse to install a ROM or a kernel. Thanks!

# Answer
> 0 votes
Short answer is maybe. You could grab an adapter (they are roughly $5) that would allow you to plug in to the charge port (almost always micro USB) to a standard USB port (AKA USB A):

Like this page of options

Then you could try plugging it in. Android has been adding Ethernet as well as Mass Storage drivers to try and accommodate devices over the USB bus.

I did a little searching and it appears your adapter has been used by other Android users (probably for exactly the same air capture purpose good 'ol aircrack and/or wireshark).

Here's a video even, enjoy

VIDEO NOTE: Newer devices will most likely not need the extra power cable this guy talks about newer devices are putting more power over the port just for things like USB hard drives, and devices.

---
Tags: applications, usb, apk
---


# Question
Title: How to change network interface used by Android?
When I boot up my Android Device and go to WiFi settings, the status of WiFi remains "Turning Wi-Fi on" forever. I looked it up in logcat logs, and below is the error that I see.

```
E/wpa_supplicant( 1713): nl80211: Could not set interface 'wlan0' UP
E/wpa_supplicant( 1713): wlan0: Failed to initialize driver interface
E/wpa_supplicant( 1713): Could not read interface wlan0 flags: No such device

```

Below is some useful information.

```
root@android:/ # netcfg
netcfg
lo       UP     127.0.0.1/8   0x00000049 00:00:00:00:00:00
gannet0  DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00001082 1e:e9:6e:bf:45:f7
dummy0   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000082 ba:ad:f6:ae:6a:09
rmnet0   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet1   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet2   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet3   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet4   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet5   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet6   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000000 00:00:00:00:00:00
rmnet7   DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000001 00:00:00:00:00:00
sit0     DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000080 00:00:00:00:00:00
ip6tnl0  DOWN     0.0.0.0/0   0x00000080 00:00:00:00:00:00

```

Contents of `/system/etc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf`:

```
update_config=1
ctrl_interface=wlan0
eapol_version=1
ap_scan=1
fast_reauth=1

```

**Question**: How can I enable Android to use some other interface other than `wlan0`?

Things tried:

1. I tried to edit `ctrl_interface` parameter in `/system/etc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf` using `adb pull` and `adb push` to other interfaces shown by `netcfg`, but Android still tries to use `wlan0`.
2. I also tried to start `wpa_supplicant` daemon using the below command.

```
/system/bin/wpa_supplicant -Dnl80211 -idummy0 -c/system/etc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf

```

but this gives an error.

```
E/wpa_supplicant( 5390): dummy0: Failed to initialize driver interface

```

# Answer
> 0 votes
Are you sure `dummy` is a WiFi interface? The typical WiFi interface's name is `wlan0`.

If you're 100% sure it is the right WiFi interface, you might also need to change the `wlan0` inside the `wpa_supplicant.conf` file.

If that still fails, run the `wpa_supplicant` command under `strace` and try to get more info from there.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Run in an ADB shell:

```
wpa_cli

```

It will open a new type of shell in which:

* Command `help` will give you all possible commands.
* Command `interface` will show you all your activated interfaces.
* Command `interface_add` will add a new interface to use, with following parameters

```
interface_add <ifname> <confname> <driver> <ctrl_interface> <driver_param> <bridge_name>

```

`ifname` being the single optional parameter.

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


# Question
Title: Non google-playstore based community android-app rating website
Is there any comunity based android-app rating web site where the app-popularity is not based on google-playstore?

The sites i found so far either indirectly uses google-playstore-ranking or some technical writer tells you "wich are the best XXX apps for YYY".

I am interested in community based ranking where even apps that are not available in google-playstore can be ranked.

I am thinking of something similar to \*.stackexchange where registered user can either

* up and downvote apps
* or give an app a quality value (i.e. 1-5 stars)

# Answer
> 0 votes
I found https://www.slant.co/tags/android:

* users can ask subjective questions.
    + i.e. What is the best android app for xxx
* users can give subjective answers.
    + i.e. The yyy app is a good candidate
* users can add subjective pro and contra arguments.
    + i.e. contra: the yyy app consumes to much energy

The community can add more answers and pro/contra arguments and rate each seperatly.

---
Tags: applications, app-ratings
---


title: Offline voice recognition not working

text:
# Question
Title: Offline voice recognition not working
When my phone is not connected to internet, voice search is showing "Can't reach Google at the moment" message and voice search is not working. It is working perfectly with internet connection.

The settings shows that it has English(UK) and English(US) as two downloaded languages for offline recognition. I have an android phone running JellyBean 4.2.2 in it. I think my OS version and RAM size (2 GB) supports voice recognition as mentioned in this answer.

Any idea how this can be solved?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Voice search works in offline mode in Android Lolipop. In previous version you can use offline voice recognition only for writing messages (after click microphone icon on Android on screen keyborad).

Also be sure that your Google application is up to date: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox

# Answer
> 0 votes
select english(US) as default language, select this only uncheck all others,see if it works i tried and solved it

# Answer
> 0 votes
This worked for me: "Change primary language to match the offline language pack (if US then US, if UK then UK). The offline language packs are limited. Andriod should have language variants fall back to the generic instead of failing, but in this version it didn't."

https://wordpress.com/post/andioio.wordpress.com/26

---
Tags: 4.2-jelly-bean, voice-recognition
---


# Question
Title: Is there any way to unlock my phone from a mobile network carrier so I can use a different sim?
I've got a BQ Aquaris M5. BQ don't have a telephone number I can ring or much of a support base, so I wasn't able to find help there.

I bought the phone sim free and put a giffgaff sim in it. Apparently giffgaff don't usually lock the phone to the parent O2 network, but this can happen as a bug on some iPhone models - I think the same thing has happened to my BQ Aquaris M5.

Recently I bought a replacement three sim on a contract - I tried putting this sim in the phone but it just says "emergency calls only". I rang three to get technical support with this but they weren't able to do anything at their end, and suggested to me that my phone might be locked to some other network.

I'm wondering if it is possible to "hack" (loose use of this expression) the android system in some way to unlock my phone from a particular network? Alternatively, perhaps this data isn't stored on my phone but is stored remotely, and therefore this isn't possible?

Either way it would be useful to know.

I have tried searching around google, but so far I can only find info on PAC / PUK codes, which I don't think is what I am looking for?

I have found my IMEI code - not sure if that is useful?

# Answer
I can't believe it but I managed to resolve the problem.

Just a quick list of details to help future google searches:

I had a BQ Aquaris M5. Bought it sim-free, but then added a giffgaff sim.

Later I changed to a three sim, removed giffgaff sim and inserted three sim, but three network was not recognised. (Emergency call only.)

Resolved problems by going to System Settings -\> Data Usage (or show more) -\> Cellular Networks (might be hidden in top right corner) -\> Set Preferred Network type to 2G/3G/4G AUTO, also go to Access Point Names, click Reset in right hand top corner menu, then go to Network Operators and check network operator is correct. Possibly restart your phone.

Happy to report mine is now working!
> 1 votes

---
Tags: sim-card, mobile-network, carriers
---


# Question
Title: How to disable browsing history in Android Firefox (Fennec)?
Unlike in the desktop Firefox, there's no setting in Firefox for Android options to disable saving browsing history.

# Answer
* Go to `about:config`.
* Create a new `boolean` value (`+` icon) called `places.history.enabled` and set to `false`.

source

**note**: the answer only applies to the eventually deprecated Firefox Fennec, not Fenix which is currently in the beta phase.
> 3 votes

---
Tags: firefox-for-android
---


# Question
Title: How to set personal interval to check data usage?
On my Nexus 4 with stock Lollipop, I can check the usage data month by month, but my subscription is every 30 days (around the 15th).

New contracts last 28 days, so there is more difference between real interval and a month.

Is it possible to set a personal interval (the start and the during) to check it?

# Answer
> 5 votes
Unfortunately I don't have enough reputation in this sub-stackexchange, so I will answer instead of commenting.

This options is not available in Android (up to this date), but there is an issue (which you can star\*), which has unfortunately been marked *obsolete* with no reason whatsoever. Maybe it can be rediscovered if enough people star it.

P.s.: Here is a similar issue which has not been marked obsolete (yet).

Edit: Another trick (which does not really give you the desired effect) might be to use an app from your provider (these often show you how much data you have left).

\*Makes it more likely that it might be implemented at some point.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Go to data usage in setting, and click the drop-down that says some interval (5 Dec-4 Nov etc) and choose "Change cycle..." to change the start date.

# Answer
> -2 votes
I found the "Change cycle" option today. It's at the bottom of the drop-down

I had to scroll past every month from 2014 to 1970 (~520 months)

---
Tags: settings, data-monitoring
---


title: How to add a folder in a secondary tab?

text:
# Question
Title: How to add a folder in a secondary tab?
I'm using Nova Launcher Prime v4.2.2 on my stock and rooted Android 6.0.1. I intend to create folders in secondary tabs under app drawer. Whenever I create a folder entry through Nova Settings → App & widget drawers → Drawer groups → Folders, the folder gets created only in the primary tab*. Changing the order of tabs under Tabs setting and then creating a new folder doesn't work. The folder always ends up in primary tab.

In the app drawer, attempting to drag the folder minimizes the app drawer and throws user back to home screen with option to place the folder there, just like how an app shortcut is placed.

I noticed an entry for my folder in the table *drawer\_groups* of database *launcher.db* located at */data/data/com.teslacoilsw.launcher/databases/*. Force stopping the launcher, switching the default launcher and making few changes in that table for that folder didn't help either.

So, how do I add a folder into a non-primary tab under app drawer?

---

* By primary tab I mean the only tab which offers the option to hide apps.

# Answer
> 4 votes
Edit the folder from within the app drawer as if you were editing an app. (Long press the folder and drag it to the "Edit" option at the top).

From there you can check/uncheck which tab(s) you wish for it to appear in.

---
Tags: customization, app-drawer, nova-launcher
---


# Question
Title: Mobile data is turned off but provider shows data trickle
I have turned off cellular data on my phone (Nexus 5, Android 6.0.1) but the data usage summary on my provider's portal is still (slowly) increasing.

Does Android still use a small amount of data even when told not to, or is it provider shenanigans?

Provider is Public Mobile.

# Answer
If you're using LTE, the reason could be, that LTE is causing traffic even if mobile data is turned off. See here: https://android.stackexchange.com/a/132642/185648
> 2 votes

# Answer
Two things to look at:

1. Does your mobile provider count standard SMS as data?
2. Does your SMS app have a setting (and is it enabled) to briefly enable mobile data when sending/receiving MMS? Ones I know that do are Handcent, ChompSMS, QKSMS, GoSMS, Textra.

Make sure the setting is off, otherwise it will briefly turn on each time you send and receive one (but note, on most carriers, you won't be able to get MMS over Wifi)
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, nexus-5, mobile-data, data-monitoring
---


# Question
Title: Unable to change country. Tried everything
I had made some purchases on my daughter's US credit card initially when in US. So my location was tagged as US. Recently when I tried to download one Indian app from India, it was showing not available in your country. So I removed my daughter's credit card, added my Indian card and also made a purchase on my card. Still Google Play is not changing my country. Pl help.

# Answer
> 0 votes
The settings you have to change are at Google Wallet. Sign in with your account, go to Settings, and change "Home address" to your new address.

You might also have to change your phone number, and your default "Billing and delivery address" in the second tab.

So, there are TWO places where you have to update your address, and the settings do not usually take effect immediately.

From Google Groups :

You can update your home address whenever you want, including changing to a different country. If you're representing a company, enter your business address.

1. Sign into your Google Payments account at payments.google.com and click the Settings icon in the top corner. See screenshot:
2. Click Edit next to the "Home Address" listed and update the address (please note this is different from the "Address Book" which holds shipping addresses).
3. Open the Play Store and navigate to any item available for download.
4. Click to begin a download until you reach the "Accept and buy" screen (no need to complete the purchase)
5. Close the Play Store and clear data for the Google Play Store application (Settings \> Apps \> Google Play Store \> Clear Data) or clear your browser cache
6. Re-open the Play Store. You should now see the Play Store that matches your default payment method’s billing country.

Note that if you don't immediately see the Play Store that matches your default payment method's billing country, it may take a few hours for this to take effect.

If you haven't yet added a payment method to your account for the first time, add a card directly from the Play Store with a billing address that matches your intended country location. Then, follow steps 3 through 6 to show your intended country's Play Store.

Some things to note...

For legal reasons, you'll need to sign new Terms of Service if you change your home country. 1. If your Google Play balance is higher than these amounts, you won't be able to change your home country. If it's under those amounts and you change to a country with a different currency, you won't be able to see or use your remaining balance until you switch back to a country where that currency is used. 2. If you have a Payments Balance higher than USD $10, or a Checkout Merchant account, you won't be able to change your country.

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


title: Google Keyboard number row

text:
# Question
Title: Google Keyboard number row
I noticed in Google Keyboard that a dedicated number row appears when entering into a password field, but not when entering into any other field.

Click image for larger version

I have done some research and found guides that claim to do this, but instead they show to create a custom input style with a PC keyboard layout. While this results in permanently adding the number row at the top, it also changes the rest of the keyboard, which I would like to avoid.

Click image for larger version

I would like this row to be there for any field, not just password fields, without changing the rest of the keyboard. Is this possible?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Go to settings, Security and then check Unknown sources. You have to remove any previous versions of Google keyboard so go to Settings, Application Manager and go over to Google Keyboard. If you are using a Nexus device then you will need root privileges. Download the modified Google keyboard from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2657791 After installation click open to enter settings or open the app from the app drawer. Configure the keyboard then set it as your default in settings.

Link: http://www.techaudible.org/how-to-add-dedicated-numbers-row-to-native-google-keyboard/

---
Tags: gboard
---


# Question
Title: Getting "Storage space running out" message in Galaxy S4; *#9900# does not show any menu
I have a Samsung Galaxy S4. I am getting the "Storage space running out" error message in my notifications bar, and some applications have quit working or updating. None of the usual solutions I've read about elsewhere on the site have helped me.

<sub>(Click image to enlarge)</sub>

The most common solution to this problem is to access a hidden menu by dialing `*#9900#`. When I try this, however, the menu does not appear:

Another common solution is to root the phone and delete `/data/logs`. Looking at what's taking up so much space on my phone, it does seem likely to me that the problem is my phone has lots of accumulated log files that aren't being deleted. I would rather not root my phone, however. I am happy with the functionality my phone has, even with bloatware and tied to my provider, and I don't want to take the time to root my phone for this one problem if I don't have to. =P

Finally, a third option I've read is to delete apps that are taking up a lot of space. I've attached a few screenshots below showing how my phone is using up space, though, and I believe that they show that my real problem is that there's something my OS is doing wrong, perhaps creating a lot of log files and not deleting them to save space. (Besides that, I've already tried deleting some apps I don't use often. The overwhelming majority of my apps don't take up much space at all, and the biggest space-wasters are also the apps I use the most and the reasons I have a smartphone.)

Is there another way for me to get back more storage space without rooting my phone?

---

If necessary, I'm willing to plug my phone into my computer and use developer tools to resolve this issue.

---

Here are a couple images showing that the biggest gain I could get for storage would be to delete some system files (which is why I'm guessing that the problem is accumulated log files). I have over 6GB that my phone categorizes as "Miscellaneous files:"

And of the files my Android includes in that category, over 6GB are generic "System memory" (again, I'm guessing logs) that, unfortunately, I can't interact with or delete from this menu:

# Answer
> 7 votes
### Approach 1:

Many users have had the problem of "6GB of miscellaneous files". The problem might be because of `/sdcard0/DCIM/.thumbnails`.

You can go ahead and delete the folder. This may free up your memory. To delete `.thumbnails` folder, you need a file manager that can see hidden files. After deleting the folder, also delete `LOST.DIR` and reboot. Clearing apps' cache is recommended.

### Approach 2:

This might be a Verizon carrier bloatware. **Verizon customer support** seems to confirm it (see reply #5 in this link). This problem is not just confined to Galaxy S4, but to other phones too (Note 2, Note 3 Galaxy S3 S4 S5).

Deleting `/data/media` entirely seems to have worked for some (needs root access).

Alternatively, installing a custom recovery (eg: CWM) and choosing to delete all **backups** in the **Internal SD** seems to have solved the problem for many users.

# Answer
> 2 votes
To get some free space, follow this:

> 1.Press your device's Menu button → select Settings (or System Settings)
>
> 2.Tap Application Manager (or Apps)
>
> 3.Tap the app icon
>
> 4.Tap Clear Data\Cache

> 5.Next thing is to disable\delete the application that you will not use.
>
> 6.Delete ***.thumbnails*** & also unwanted files by making it *`show Hidden Files`*

> 7.Delete the **Social Media Apps** Folder **Ex:/sdcard/whatsapp**. But Before that, Select & Move your Videos, Images, Files, Audios from Social Media Apps Folder.

***Note: Clearing the app's data will remove any custom options, stored data and settings.***

# Answer
> 2 votes
Every phone has similar disclaimers- this is specifically for your phone: "16 GB ROM (Portion of memory occupied by existing content)"

6GB does seem a bit high, but your screen capture of storage looks about right. You may just need to be more diligent keeping this system memory clear. Look into what exactly is taking up so much space in "Pictures, videos" and "Audio" and move some of it to the external SD card. Also maybe clear out any apps that you aren't regularly using. Honestly, the specs on my S3 are similar to yours and I don't have this problem, so I'm just suggesting that any obvious differences are probably the culprit.

You shouldn't need to do anything more than exploring your files, which you can do with the onboard MyFiles app or download OI File Manager.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I fixed mine it was that story album on the phone it burys all your photos into a file deep into your phone, delete apps that you can reload later then go to the app store and install all in one toolbox open it and run the file manager select device storage analyzer go to android then to data and so on to find where they are stored its best to plug into your laptop for this save them to your laptop or delete them from your phone then force stop that app is sucks it gets to full and jams your phone up, use google photos or something like that

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-4, insufficient-memory
---


title: Manually instaling apk

text:
# Question
Title: Manually instaling apk
Long story short: I don't have google services, and I accidentally deleted the backup. I can't install any apk no more via package installer. When I click "install" it just says "Application not installed." I tried everything in my settings.

Is there any way to install apk without package installer? Maybe manually extracting apk file and copying it to some folder somewhere and then making shortcut in launcher?

I have android 4.4.

# Answer
Are you rooted? If you have root, you can use a ROOT browser and put the google services app manually in the /system/app folder then reboot. It SHOULD work.

And when you say google services, do you mean "Google Play Services"?
> 0 votes

# Answer
Why don't you reinstall play services and then install the other apps as because manually moving required files to their location would be plain headache. Better you take backup of your data and flash stock ROM again to fix everthing.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: installation, apk
---


# Question
Title: ZTE Z820 Can't bypass Google Account after Factory Reset
ZTE Z820 Phone purchased in U.S. during 3 month stay. I've factory reset to unluck and for use in Ireland, but now can't bypass the Google Account. Stuck in the loop for user name and password. I have the correct account and password details, but won't recognize the password. It is the correct password, I've confirmed it.
I've viewed and tried various methods online, but none are z820 specific. Can anyone help. Please?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Check if your 2 way authentication is ON for your google account.

If it is ON, you need to generate a password for your new android device. You can find this option in your account setting -\> security.

Use new generated password for login, it should work....

---
Tags: google-account
---


# Question
Title: swap internal sd card to external storage
I wanna make my external sd my internal one without having the need to use an app. So Instead of having 8GB of internal storage I want to have 64GB (taken from the micro sd card). It worked on my previous phone Gt-i8530 if I changed the `vold` file to this:

```
# internal sdcard
{
ums_sys_path = /sys/class/android_usb/f_mass_storage/lun0/file
secure_format = enable
discard = enable
}
dev_mount sdcard1 /storage/extSdCard 8 /devices/sdi2/mmc_host/mmc0/mmc0 encryptable_nonremovable

# external sdcard
{
ums_sys_path = /sys/class/android_usb/f_mass_storage/lun1/file
supported_exfat = disable
android_secure_containers = enable
}
dev_mount sdcard /storage/sdcard0 auto /devices/sdi0/mmc_host/mmc1/mmc1

```

So now I want to do that same thing on my new phone SM-G3858. But I only have in `vold`:

```
#storage_struct = series, "/mnt/sdcard/extStorages"
#storage_struct = parallel
{
supported_exfat = yes
}
dev_mount sdcard /storage/extSdCard auto /devices/platform/sdhci-pxav3.0/mmc_host/mmc1

```

Now what do I need to change or add here to swap it as on the previous phone? I´m a bit confused that a) it right away says extsdcard here and b) that there is only one command line instead of 2 . I guess the reason is the `#storage` structure?

And suggestions please?

# Answer
Unless it's important to you that the storage volumes are swapped, in Android Marshmallow the sd-card storage can be added to your internal storage with Adaptable storage.

Adaptable storage "enables a user to set up his SD card as internal storage, and store applications, their data, and media on an adopted SD card." –Source

Note: A high-speed card (UHS-1) is highly recommended, since you'll be experiencing lag and slow application speed with slower/older cards.

To use the feature:

1. Turn off your phone
2. Insert the SD-card
3. Turn on your phone
4. Choose "use sd-card as Internal Storage" (When provided with the option - it should appear as a notification)

Android will then set up the card for internal use. This will make Android show your sd-card as part of the internal storage and be used as such. The proces also encrypts the card, so your data is safe.

Note: When the card is set up as internal storage, you won't be able to use the card as a normal sd-card, fx. plugging it out and into your computer to copy files won't work. To use the sd-card like this again at a later point, you'll have to reformat the card.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Most new devices dont have partition of sdcard that means instead of having internal memory and that called usb storage app only internal is present...they dont separate it and only create a system space. If you check your apps list in settings Downloaded apps and all apps list are all in internal and no option for moving to sd...This mostly happen on android kitkat devices...
> 0 votes

# Answer
It depends what phone you are using and what version of Android you are using. If you are using Android Marshmallow there is something called Adoptable storage which can be turned on in settings. Most phones have this option so looking online for this shouldn't be difficult.

If however you are using one of the few phones that does not allow adoptable storage like Samsung S7 family or LG G5 than you need to go through these alternative steps.

--THIS WILL FORMAT YOUR SD CARD, BACKUP YOUR DATA!!!

1) have adb installed. You can get a slim version from XDA http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790

2) run:

$\> adb shell $\> sm list-disks adoptable disk

this will give you a result like: 179,64

then run this command. the last number is the % of the storage you want as EXTERNAL, not adoptable. So, let's say you want 60% of the SD card as adoptable storage, you should run

$\> sm partition disk:179,64 mixed 40

type the number you got before after disk: Also, if you get some permission errors, type su and then try the command again

3) reboot your phone.

Done. Check the storage on your device and you should see a part of the sd card on the internal storage and the other on the external

If you end up getting a "corrupted" error on your SD card portion of device storage here is how you fix it.

After you have partitioned the disk and while your SD card is corruped enter In the terminal the following: $\> adb shell sm list-volumes all

Which will list your volumes, for example: private mounted null public:179,1 mounted B5B1-140C private:179,3 unmountable null emulated mounted null

Then enter the following replacing 179,3 with whichever disk numbers you are given: $\> adb shell sm format private:179,3 $\> adb shell sm mount private:179,3

Now your SD card in device storage should be properly mounted and your portable storage will still be there.

This worked on my LG G5 and should work on the S7.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, external-sd, insufficient-memory
---


# Question
Title: Split external SD card partially into adoptable storage and portable storage
I don't want all my external SD card as adopted/internal storage, so I was wondering how I can split it into 1 part adopted storage and 1 part normal file storage (what Android calls "portable storage").

# Answer
*You don't need to root your device but the device i done this with is rooted*

1. You need to enabled Developer Options.
2. Enable the USB Debugging option.
3. Make sure your SD card is formatted as portable, then get the `adb` executable (see our adb tag-wiki for details).
4. Connect your device to your PC and run the `adb devices` command. If your device is connected correctly you will see your device listed in the output.
5. Run `adb shell sm list-disks adoptable`. This will show you the list of disks that can be used for what we want.
6. For my device it showed me `disk:179,128` so i ran `adb shell sm partition disk:179,128 mixed 80` on my 32 GB AS card. It gave me 5 GB as adoptable storage and the rest for other uses. (This will format your SD card.)
> 26 votes

# Answer
poqdavid's answer is correct.

In addition though, you might get the error that your SD card on your device storage is corrupted. If so, follow these steps.

After you have partitioned the disk and while your SD card is corrupted, enter the following commands in the terminal which will list your volumes, for example:

```
$> adb shell sm list-volumes all
private mounted null
public:179,1 mounted B5B1-140C
private:179,3 unmountable null
emulated mounted null

```

Then enter the following replacing `179,3` with whichever disk numbers you are given:

```
$> adb shell sm format private:179,3
$> adb shell sm mount private:179,3

```

Now your SD card in device storage should be properly mounted and your portable storage will still be there.

This worked on my LG G5 and should work on the Samsung Galaxy S7.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: external-sd, adoptable-storage
---


title: malware adding to Google Contacts

text:
# Question
Title: malware adding to Google Contacts
I found a contact that I don't recognize. Is there a way for an Android phone malware to add to my Google Contacts?

I generally only run Skype and YouTube on the phone. Occasionally I use the default browser.

# Answer
> 2 votes
An app must have permission to access your contacts in order to modify them. When you install an app, prior to Android 6, you have to agree to the permissions it requests in order to install. Android 6 and later you have to agree to permissions when you run the app. An app doesn't visibly have to do anything with your contacts to modify them; as long as it is running, it can work with whatever it has permission to access.

So, you might check the permissions for various apps you use and see if they have been granted access to contacts. You can do this through Settings \> Apps \> (each app).

Also, you might consider the browsers you use. If a browser has access to contacts, it might be possible (I don't know for sure) for javascript or some browser extension to write to contacts.

One more thing to be wary of: if you have installed a custom keyboard, it can be a source of compromising your system. For example, an untrustworthy keyboard could capture account names passwords and send them to some hidden third party.

---
Tags: malware
---


# Question
Title: Why I can't see all images in the gallery?
My Phone is SYMPHONY Xplorer W35. Android version JellyBean 4.1.1 Recently I'm facing a problem. Sometimes I download images from my PC to my mobile phone. But unfortunately these images are not in the gallery apps. For this when I need to upload an image from messenger I can't upload them because they are not in the gallery. But after few times the images are automatically shown in the gallery. (My messenger doesn't support uploading file from file manager)

# Answer
This very much depends on how you upload the images to the device. In order for the gallery app to pick them up, they must be added to the "media library", which is the job of the . So that one needs to run after you've uploaded the image(s).

There are quite a few events triggering the media scanner to do its job – but e.g. uploading a file via FTP, or copying it with a file manager do not belong to that category. Things you can do to trigger it include:

Pick your choice depending on how often you need to do that. If it happens once a year, a reboot probably is the easiest approach. If you need it daily, one of those apps will be the better solution ;)
> 2 votes

# Answer
There might be a file in the folder with the images not visible called ".nomedia". The file, by existing, tells the android system to not include the images in the folder in the media scan. That means that many gallery apps won't see the images. If you have a file manager installed, and know what folder the image is in, you can navigate to the folder and remove the ".nomedia" file. If there is no such file but you manage to find the image it might be another problem.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Once you delete .nomedia files & if you still cant view those pictures, you need to rename the folder e.g. from DCIM to DCIM2. Once you can view them on gallery, you can rename back to original folder name e.g. DCIM2 to DCIM. same goes to other folders. Tq
> 0 votes

# Answer
I had this issue on a completely different phone and version of Android, but both the issue and the explanation can be universal. In my case, it was the existence of the `.nomedia` file in the directory I was trying to see in the Gallery app. This is documented in the Android Developer documentation under Storage Options and, as of this writing appears in a sidebar as follows:

> **Hiding your files from the Media Scanner**
>
> Include an empty file named .nomedia in your external files directory (note the dot prefix in the filename). This prevents media scanner from reading your media files and providing them to other apps through the MediaStore content provider.

In my case, some application that I installed must have put this file in my Download directory, hiding all of the images there from the Gallery app (and others as well).

**Solution**: All I had to do was delete the `.nomedia` file from the directory and the contents became visible in the Gallery app. You can simply connect your phone to your computer and browse to the directory to accomplish this, or use a file manager on your phone configured to view hidden dot files.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: gallery
---


# Question
Title: Explosion proneness of my Samsung Galaxy Note 7 device
It's all over the news currently about the Samsung smartphone devices being a fire hazard, exploding, and there being a pertinent recall of such devices which have already caused property damage and has also physically burned people in some cases.

As per Samsung Will Replace or Refund 1 Million Galaxy Note 7 Phones in the U.S. post. . .

> Samsung Electronics formally recalled 1 million Galaxy Note 7 smartphones sold in the United States, replacing or refunding the flagship phones, whose susceptibility to catching fire.
>
> Earlier this month, Samsung said it would recall all Note 7 smartphones equipped with batteries it found to be fire-prone.
>
> source

## **Questions**

* How do I check if my device is affected by this issue?
* How do I check the eligibility of my device for the recall/defect?
* What else do I need to know or consider?

# Answer
> 4 votes
> ## Galaxy Note7 Safety Recall
>
> **Samsung Galaxy Note7 Battery Safety Recall and Exchange Program**
>
> Samsung has announced a voluntary recall and exchange program on certain Galaxy Note7 devices in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The affected devices were sold in the U.S. before September 15, 2016. Since the affected devices can overheat and pose a safety risk, if you own a Galaxy Note7, it is extremely important to stop using your device, power it down and immediately exchange it using our U.S. Note7 Exchange Program.
>
> Through the U.S. Note7 Exchange Program, you can:
>
> 1. Exchange your current Galaxy Note7 device with a new Galaxy Note7 as approved by the CPSC available no later than September 21, 2016; or
> 2. Exchange your current Galaxy Note7 for a Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge and replacement of any Note7 specific accessories with a refund of the price difference between devices; or
> 3. Contact your point of purchase to obtain a refund.
>
> Customers who exchange a Note7 device will also receive a $25 gift card, in-store credit, in-store accessory credit or bill credit from select carrier retail outlets.
>
> Note: The battery cell issue applies only to the Galaxy Note7 sold in the U.S. before September 15, 2016.
>
> **Eligibility**
>
> Please follow the steps below to determine if your Note7 must be replaced through this program. This program only applies to the Note7. You can also use Samsung+ which will automatically check your device.
>
> How do I check my device?
>
> Go to the Eligibility section and. . .
>
> 1. The IMEI or Serial number will be used to indicate if your device should be exchanged.
> 2. Find your IMEI or Serial number by going to "Apps \> Settings \> About Phone or General Management \> Status \> IMEI information or Serial number" or check the back of your phone.
> 3. Enter your IMEI (Serial # for devices without IMEI) number without any spaces below:
>
> and then press the **Check** option there.
>
> **Exchange**
>
> Galaxy Note7 owners can contact the carrier or retail outlet where they purchased their device. If you bought your Note7 from Samsung.com, you should contact us at 1-844-365-6197 and we can help you. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us directly at 1-844-365-6197.
>
> ## Frequently Asked Questions
>
> 1. Is it okay for me to continue using my Note7?
>
> Your safety is our highest priority. Since affected Note7 batteries can overheat and pose a safety risk, if you own a Galaxy Note7, it is extremely important to stop using your device, power it down immediately and participate in the U.S. Note7 Exchange Program.
>
> ---
>
> 2. What is the problem with the Note7 phone?
>
> We have identified an issue with certain Note7 battery cells. Your safety is our highest priority. Since affected Note7 batteries can overheat and pose a safety risk, if you own a Galaxy Note7, it is extremely important to stop using your device, power it down immediately and participate in the U.S. Note7 Exchange Program.
>
> ---
>
> 3. If I want to participate in the U.S. Note7 Exchange Program, what do I do?
>
> To participate in the U.S. Note7 Product Exchange Program, you should contact your carrier or retail outlet. If you purchased your Note7 on Samsung.com, you should contact us directly at 1-844-365-6197.
>
> ---
>
> 4. Are there any other Samsung phones impacted?
>
> No. This issue is only related to the Note7.
>
> ---
>
> 5. When can I buy a new Note7?
>
> Our first priority will be to provide exchange program participants with a new Note7 as approved by the CPSC. New Note7s will be available at your carrier and retail outlets no later than September 21, 2016.

source

---
Tags: samsung, hardware
---


# Question
Title: What are the differences between the two Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0" models?
I have just got a new Samsung GALAXY Tab 4 7.0" (SM-T230NU).

What is the difference (or improvements) between the 'stock' SM-T230 model GALAXY Tab 4 7.0" and the 'newer' SM-T230NU, recently released for US/Canada and in EU?

Are there also other NU devices? I have also seen references to the GALAXY Tab 4 10.1" as SM-T530NU.

---

I have found one possible issue, with the SM-T230 *not having* multi-user mode:

> The multi users setting is not available. According to the manual it should be at settings =\> General =\> Users.

(My device does have multi-user capability)

---

I also saw a reference to the two different models on XDA Developers:

> Do make sure your tablet is a T230NU model and not just a T230 model.

---

**UPDATE: 04-Jul-2014**

There are **three** variants: T230, T230NT, T230NU

from: Samsung T230 | T230NT | T230NU Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 WiFi Firmwares

# Answer
According to other reviews, the plain SM-T230 does not support OTG, but the SM-T237p does.

I remember how disappointed I was to find this with my SM-T210R.
> 0 votes

# Answer
SM-T230nu has an IR remote, while a simple tab 4 (SM-T230) doesn't have one.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: hardware, multi-user, samsung-galaxy-tab-4
---


# Question
Title: How can I access to the files of a game with data?
I have a game called for example "Shadow Fight 2" and I like it soundtracks, so I want to have the songs but this game has data and the songs didn't exist in the .apk file ( I opened it with an Archive Manager ) and it downloads from Internet, so the question is how can I access to the data it has downloaded? and by the way my phone is rooted.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I am not sure for apks with obb data but for apk files without obb associated just rename apk file with .zip extension and then extract res folder you will get all resources

---
Tags: 4.4-kitkat
---


# Question
Title: Galaxy A3 samsung can;t be read in my laptop
I was always being able to transfer my photos from my Samsung A3 Galaxy to my laptop. But recently i am unable to do it. Please advise how do i fix this problem. Thank you Faribel

# Answer
Connect device through usb:

Then permission to allow from mobile If not popup visible then you can try from slide down to choose USB options. You can try all those options to visible mobile on your filemanager.

If still not availble then you can try through developer option then on option.

Which operating system you have used in your laptop.

You can also connect using `xander` or such app to laptop through brower you can access then mobile.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-a3
---


# Question
Title: how to remove the android device in gmail account
one guy is connecting to my gmail account. if I remove the device from gmail account also he again connecting. I don't know how he is connecting again ,I changed my gmail password and 2 step verification is on .. but still he is using my account. kindly help me .

he is using Samsung galxy note 11

# Answer
> 0 votes
* First of all Log in to google in a PC, open gmail and at the bottom you can see `Last account activity`.

Click `details` shown next to it \> and click `sign out of all other sessions.`

==========================================================================
* Now, if he has added your account in to his device, follow these steps.

1. Go to google account security in a browser (PC).
    2. Sign in with your google account
    3. Under `device activity and notifications` click `Review devices` shown inside a card named `recently used devices`
    4. Remove access to the particular device.

==========================================================================

## Now, (most important) change your password and do not share it with anyone.

---
Tags: gmail
---


title: Not yet getting Android Nougat update

text:
# Question
Title: Not yet getting Android Nougat update
I have a Nexus 5X phone running Android 6.0.1 and I am not yet getting Nougat update. Is this normal ? A lot of people I know already installed it.

# Answer
Not everyone got it.

If you want, you can sign up for beta https://www.google.com/android/beta and you will get the prompt instantly, or you can get the factory image and flash it in fastboot: https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/bullhead-nrd90m-factory-61495c8b.zip
> 1 votes

# Answer
This person explains it best, it is for an older version of android but I think they will use the same algorithms.

P.S. I still don't have it either.
> 0 votes

# Answer
You can follow this link https://www.google.com/android/beta and the steps are explained their so it should be easy to take from thereof
> 0 votes

---
Tags: nexus-5x, 7.0-nougat
---


title: hard brick? [asus zenfone 5 - lollipop]

text:
# Question
Title: hard brick? [asus zenfone 5 - lollipop]
I have a problem with my asus zenfone 5 (root). I think it's hard bricked. I will explain better, yesterday I did a restore to "clean" the system, while restoring freezes, then I try to boot into recovery mode. I long ago, installed a custom recovery, the fact is that by inserting the `recovery.img` and trying to start it from the custom recovery. I get errors and does not install, so start in droidboot mode to adjust all manualmente by pc (GNU / linux), with `fastboot flash recovery.img`, but when I have to do the last step described by driving mistake.

Now I do not have a chance to get more in recovery mode, in fact, when I press `power` \+ `vol` appears the Android logo with red exclamation point, if I try to start it normally there is a loading of the asus logo with the infinite wheel, but when there is asus adb logo detects it, it just says chen is not "authorized", the phone has to be thrown away? There are hardware / software solutions ?
thank you so much

# Answer
The BEST way to unbrick an Android device is to use Odin. This exe program has saved many android users from having to buy another phone. Although I am not a pro with Odin, try looking up on Google about how to flash with Odin. Odin supports both Windows and MAC but windows is better.

Did you ever make a backup of your ROM? Unless you didn't have a custom recovery, making a Nandroid backup is extremely important.

If your device is hard-bricked with no backup, then you will need to download your original STOCK ROM (which can be found on the internet), and flash it through odin.

Also you will need a PIT file for your phone. PIT files tell Odin where to correctly place the files when flashing.

You can obtain the correct PIT file by looking up your phone model and then add "PIT file" along with the model.

I hope this helps!
> 0 votes

---
Tags: recovery-mode, boot-loop, unbricking, asus-zenfone-5
---


# Question
Title: Why do I encounter "There is a problem parsing the package" and how to avoid it
I always face this problem during installation of app on my Huawei phone. Anybody got help?

# Answer
There are multiple possibilities:

1. Your APK is corrupted (most common for me)
    * Get another copy (i.e. Download it again)
2. Your APK file is incompatible
    * Check if your phone can meet the app's requirements.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: installation
---


title: Using OpenDNS for the 3g connection

text:
# Question
Title: Using OpenDNS for the 3g connection
I'd like to use OpenDNS for the 3G connection on my Android phone. I have a phone with Android Lollipop. The phone is not rooted. I tried several apps for non-rooted phones (DNS Changer (no root 3G/WiFi), Fast DNS Changer(no root), DNSet pro, DNS Changer (without Root), etc...). They are all based on the creation of a VPN connection. I tried them all and they work but if i turn off the phone and boot it, I need to restart the app manually every time. Is there a way to do it automatically ? Thank you.

# Answer
> 2 votes
You can't change a data connection's IP settings, unless you

1. are rooted, then you can use Linux-based approaches (e.g. `iptables`)
2. use an app that creates a VPN connection to a remote server that uses OpenDNS

Now, VPN on boot depends on the app you're using. I'm yet to encounter an app that creates a VPN tunnel on boot.

**Update:** For the record, a lot of apps these days create VPN tunnels on boot.

---
Tags: dns
---


# Question
Title: Galaxy Note 4 turns off at about 15% remaining battery capacity
I've been using my Note 4 for more than 2 years now and I'm absolutely happy with it, except for that one issue: the battery indicator on top does not match the *real* remaining capacity of the battery. The battery is still ok in terms of its "fitness", it usually allows for a whole day of (power) use. But it is annoying to see that the phone turns off at a shown power level of 13%, sometimes 16%. When I then plug in the charging cable, the charging screen shows the last level like 13%, but I think it *really* is 0%, because if I turn on the phone shortly after plugging the charger in, it turns off again before it completely boots up.

Is there a way to calibrate the battery level in such a way that the indicator gives correct resp. *useful* values again?

# Answer
> Is there a way to calibrate the battery level in such a way that the indicator gives correct resp. *useful* values again?

**No** . Battery calibration is a myth and you can see this question for more. While the context of question is different, it answers why it is a myth Bought a new battery, do I need to calibrate it?

* Li Ion batteries don't suddenly die ( unlike Ni Cd batteries ); their performance degrades **both** in terms of charge holding capacity and the performance or life per charge. Two years of usage is not really an indicator of battery life - it depends on a host of other things like how heavily it is used, how it has been charged etc. My gut feeling is that it has lived it's life and it's time more to replace the battery with a new one
* HTC and some Nexus devices have a way of fixing wonky battery readings using *battery reset logic*, but Samsung devices don't have this feature, so to fix it battery replacement is the first step. If the problem persists ( unlikely ) you may need to get it get it checked up
> 1 votes

# Answer
If you are rooted theres an app called "Battery calibrarion" which may help you.

What i didnt extract from your text: do you still use the original battery that came with a phone or one you bought somewhere else?

If you still use the original one,i recommend to buy a new one since batteries loose a certain percentage of their power after a long time.
> -2 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, battery, battery-life, samsung-galaxy-note-4, calibration
---


# Question
Title: What does the /data/system folder store and its significance?
I know that `/data` partition contains user-generated data (`/data/app` \- user apps, `/data/data` \- app data, etc).

But what is the `/data/system` folder used for, and does it have any significance in the boot procedure (e.g. - boot scripts, etc)?

*A sub-folder-wise explanation would be preferred.*

# Answer
*`data/system`* folder contains system configuration files critical to maintaining device's state. Access to the directory is restricted by the system apps only, so if the device is not rooted the folder content can't be seen.

Below is the list of files residing in the directory with a brief description. Note that the list is not completely full and also may vary depending on the OS version.

* ***`appops.xml`*** \- a configuration file used by the `AppOps` service which controls application permissions;
* ***`called_pre_boots.dat`*** \- a file used by `ActivityManager` to hold pre-boot broadcast receivers;
* ***`batterystats.bin`*** \- a binary used by the `BatteryStats` service to keeps power statistics of application installed;
* ***`gesture.key`*** \- lockscreen pattern;
* ***`inputmethod/`*** \- a directory used to store IME configuration. Contains `subtypes.xml` with IME locales, keyboard layout sets etc;
* ***`locksettings.db`*** \- a `SQLite` database containing the lock screen settings;
* ***`netpolicy.xml`*** \- a configuration file used by the `NetworkPolicyManagerService`;
* ***`netstats/`*** \- a directory used to hold `NetworkStatsService` statistics;
* ***`packages.list`*** \- a file used by the `PackageManager` service containing the list of all packages (`apk`s) installed in the system (same as executing `pm list packages` within `shell`);
* ***`packages.xml`*** \- a file used by the `PackageManager` service to hold metadata of all installed packages, like `UID`s, requested permissions etc;
* ***`profiles.xml`*** \- a configuration file to keep metadata of device profiles including sound mode, airplane mode, vibration etc.;
* ***`password.key`*** \- password hash;
* ***`usagestats/`*** \- a directory used to store files for the `UsageStats` service. Contains `usage-history.xml` that holds info on all apps and its components with the last time a user used them;
* ***`users/`*** \- a directory used for multi-user support. Contains `userlist.xml` which keeps info on all users in the system (`0` \- is a device owner/primary user); e.g. a sub-directory `users/0/` holds info on the user account (`accounts.db`), widgets (`appwidgets.xml`), wallpaper (`wallpaper_info.xml`) etc.
> 6 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, file-system, system, files
---


title: Android x86 UI Dead on Boot

text:
# Question
Title: Android x86 UI Dead on Boot
I was able to install android x86 on my laptop with a 20GB partition and configure the system according to my tastes yesterday. Also yesterday, I tried using this app to uninstall some bloatware on my system, such as:

1. Browser
2. Calculator
3. Gmail
4. Keyboard
5. Youtube
6. Velvet (I think this is the google app)

I tried getting rid of this stuff since it's all either unimportant or I have better apps instead, such as opera, hacker's keyboard, and deepstack calculator. When I tried, google's services started dying, and then larger apps like atom launcher started dying. Now, whenever I try to boot into android, it's stuck at the loading screen, though I do have access to a root terminal. Luckily, I still have the '.apk' files available as well as the configuration files. I tried to fix this by using 'pm install', and, even though it starts to install the package, it isn't able to. When I try to pass other arguments to 'pm', it just says that the service isn't available.

Now, I don't want to have to go through a re-install and configure android again, so how do I either: 1. Start the service so that it works 2. Manually re-install the packages?

The device is still bootable to some other OSes. All help is appreciated.

**EDIT:** I did not delete any services, only these apps that I have uninstalled from a separate tablet of mine and know to be unimportant.

# Answer
> 1 votes
As someone who develops apps (okay, not very sophisticated ones, but still) I know that many 'improved' versions of things rely on the originals being present. If you delete the originals the new ones don't work. As a simple example, an all bells and whistles photo editing program may rely on the basic camera 'service'. If you delete that service, it doesn't work. In your case, I would guess your hacker's keyboard relies on the basic keyboard.

As a general rule: unless I am certain it can't affect anything on the phone or I downloaded it, I don't delete it.

I would just start again.

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Tags: root-access, apk, services
---


title: SSHFS from Android to NAS

text:
# Question
Title: SSHFS from Android to NAS
I'm trying to get any folder on the internal storage of a HTC M7 to be mounted via `sshfs` to a folder on my NAS. The goal would be to have for example the `/sdcard/My Documents/My Recordings` folder setup like this so it has almost unlimited storage. I've installed EasySSHFS and connected via `adb shell`. In `/data/data/ru.nsu.bobrofon.easysshfs/files` are the `ssh` and `sshfs` binaries. I exported this folder to `$PATH` and started trying.

I tried mounting through the following symlinks:

```
/sdcard
/storage/emulated/0
/storage/emulated/legacy
/mnt/shell/emulated/0
/mnt/shell/emulated/legacy

```

always trying to get to the `My Documents/My Recordings` folder. Depending on whether or not I used `su` some folder paths worked others don't. But even if they where mounted the app (I tried with Smart Voice Recorder as it allows you to set the path of your recordings, HTC's builtin Voice Recorder doesn't) wouldn't place its files onto the NAS but instead into the folder. Using a different path I was able to see the files locally. Without `su` though I can't `sshfs` because of a permission problem with `/dev/fuse`. I think the problem must be with the way android mounts the sdcard (`fuse`) but I can't figure out what exactly it is. I also tried mounting something not on the sdcard and symlinking to it but that didn't work either. Im suspecting the fuse mount to prohibit that as well.

Any Ideas?

# Answer
I had to disable "Mount namespace separation" in SuperSU to get this to work.
> 1 votes

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Tags: mount, ssh
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# Question
Title: Apps not showing .How to reinstall the factory apps
Ok so i rooted my Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 inch tablet and i wanted to get rid of some useless factory apps that i never used but after i did that and exited kingroot i had no applications on my screen..my wallpaper is still here,the bar on top from where u can activate wifi, gps etc.(i dont know how its called sorry) is still functional (and i can go to settings from there but it doesnt work every time) and the digital buttons are working perfectly..it seems like everything works fine exept that when i restart i get the com.android.phone error. I accessed google from the task killer from where i can also go to the app manager witch works good also. PS:Factory reset doesnt resolve the problem.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Sounds like you removed the launcher (homescreen) along with some other critical stuff.

For now, go to Settings and turn on USB Debugging, plug into your PC, install appropriate drivers, and sideload another launcher app, so that you can see all your apps and backup data. After backing up, flash a factory firmware via Odin from your PC to get a fresh start (you do need to root again).

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Tags: applications, settings, system-apps
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title: Oppo Neo 5 (2015) Stuck at Logo Screen

text:
# Question
Title: Oppo Neo 5 (2015) Stuck at Logo Screen
So I rooted my phone successfully. Then after that, I installed Flashify to Flash CWM Based Recovery and shows "copying file to ....". After that it reboots to recovery and now it is just showing me the Oppo logo screen. I can't access the recovery even I press the key combination. Yes it shows "\>\>\> Recovery Mode" but it is just stuck on the logo. Please anyone help !?
Here are some Info

* Android 5.0.1
* I have the stock ROM for my device

I also have a problem when I charge my phone, it automatically goes to recovery but still stuck at the logo screen

# Answer
> -1 votes
It looks like you flashed a recovery that didn't support your device. Good news is since your rooted, you can unbrick your phone by obtaining your original rom.

If you didn't back up your rom/recovery, then you will need to download your STOCK rom off the internet and flash it via Odin.

Odin is a popular flashing tool for windows and mac. It works better on Windows.

ALSO, when flashing with odin, you will need a pit file. Pit file tells Odin where to correctly install the rom.

If your not familiar with flashing using odin, I recommend you look it up.

I hope this helps!

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Tags: 5.0-lollipop, boot-loop
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