# Question
Title: Can I dismiss an upcoming alarm on standard Samsung S7?
On a Samsung S7 (running 6.0.1) with standard apps, is there a way of "pre-dismissing" the next occurrence of a repeating alarm without turning the alarm off altogether?

I have a regular alarm set to wake me up in the morning. Sometimes, I'll wake shortly before the alarm is due to go off. In effect I want to say "*I'm up, don't sound the alarm this morning*" without turning it off completely and having to remember to turn it back on again before I go to sleep.

Note, this question "How do I dismiss just the next occurrence of a recurring alarm?" and its answer concern the stock Nexus clock app. However, I'm asking about whether this can be done using the Samsung stock app.

# Answer
You can try Recurring task reminder FREE

It has more recurring reminder, filter & customization options than other apps in play store.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: alarm, samsung-galaxy-s7
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to detect two Gear VR controllers at once with Unity?
Is it possible to detect two of the Gear VR controllers at once, with programming in Unity? Has anyone heard of any way to do this, or does Oculus limits it to inspire you to get a Rift? It would open a whole world of possibilities for the Gear VR when used with Unreal or Unity.

# Answer
Check this post on Oculus developers forums: Would I connect two GearVR Controllers?

User **imperativity**, listed as "Oculus Staff" in the forums answered the following on 2017 May 1st:

> Yes, there is support for using two controllers at once.
> This functionality will be released in the future and is currently not available at this time.

Last blog post about the controller mentions that single controller is supported by several version of Unity starting from 5.3.

According to the documentation, the API provides a way to differentiate between controller held in left hand and in right hand:

```
OVRInput.Controller.LTrackedRemote
OVRInput.Controller.RTrackedRemote

```

The feature is not currently exposed by Oculus SDK, but officially it will happen soon.
When it is exposed, it is probable that Unity will support it soon after, maybe through the APIs mentioned above.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: game-controllers, samsung-gear-vr
---


# Question
Title: USB tethering to connect Linux to Android
I believe I can access the files on my Android mobile from my Linux Desktop if I turn on 'usb tethering' on my mobile. However, when I do it, nothing appears on my file manager. I am using Debian9 Linux and I have tried it with KDE desktop and Dolphin file manager (where I also checked 'Network' in places) and also on LXDE desktop with PCManFm and Thunar file managers.

On checking dmesg, I see following at messages:

```
...
[ 1400.700600] usb 1-1.4.3: new high-speed USB device number 13 using ehci-pci
[ 1400.810883] usb 1-1.4.3: New USB device found, idVendor=1ebf, idProduct=6880
[ 1400.810886] usb 1-1.4.3: New USB device strings: Mfr=1, Product=2, SerialNumber=3
[ 1400.810888] usb 1-1.4.3: Product: Android
[ 1400.810890] usb 1-1.4.3: Manufacturer: Android
[ 1400.810891] usb 1-1.4.3: SerialNumber: 3a2e77f
[ 1400.819857] rndis_host 1-1.4.3:1.0 usb0: register 'rndis_host' at usb-0000:00:1a.0-1.4.3, RNDIS device, 32:04:36:81:21:ff
[ 1400.842696] rndis_host 1-1.4.3:1.0 enp0s26u1u4u3: renamed from usb0
[ 1400.878144] IPv6: ADDRCONF(NETDEV_UP): enp0s26u1u4u3: link is not ready

```

How can I access files on my mobile with usb tethering? Thanks for your help.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Tethering doesn't provide access to device's storage. It simply establishes a network between the host (mobile) and client (PC) where PC can access internet, if available. If you need storage access, try MTP or ADB or network based file access (WebDAV, FTP, SSH, etc.). I do not know much about setting-up MTP on Debian but the rest alternatives are covered in my answer here.

---
Tags: usb, linux, tethering
---


# Question
Title: Ringtone set from a file reverts to default after reboot
When I set a ringtone from a file ("More ringtones"), after reboot it reverts to the default ringtone on the pre-set list. How to fix this?

When I choose a ringtone from the pre-set list, it does stay (does not revert to the default one).

The file I select is in `Phone storage/Ringtones`.

I tried Zedge to set a downloaded ringtone, same effect: after reboot, it resets to the default one. As a workaround, maybe there is an app that would check the ringtone after reboot and set its own one if it has reverted to the default?

Android 5.1 kernel 3.10.65, model Polariod P5025A, not rooted.

The phone has other issues, such as after reboot some downloaded apps (not always, but Opera almost always) disappear from the desktop, so that I have to bring their icons to the desktop again. The downloaded apps are on SD card (probably that's why), but my old phone (Android 4.4 on Samsung, a great deal better than 5.1) did not have any of these problems.

# Answer
Apps such as Tasker can definitely set the ringtone after device boot.

* Profile: Event → System → Device Boot
* Task: Audio → Default Ringtone:
    + Type: Ringer
    + Sound: tap lens icon → choose File Manger app -\> select your sound file.

File Manager app should be such app which allow a sound file to be selected as a ringtone. I'm aware of Solid File Explorer and ES File Explorer providing such feature.

If you don't get the option to use the File Manager app, then clear the defaults of Media Server from **Settings → Apps → All apps** (or three dots line **→ Show system) → Media Server → Open by default → Clear defaults**.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, 5.0-lollipop, settings, 5.1-lollipop, ringtone
---


# Question
Title: Is there any way to watch Amazon Video on Samsung Gear VR?
Netflix and Hulu have both apps for the Samsung Gear VR headset, but Amazon Video doesn't have an app. So my question is, is there any way to watch Amazon Video on Samsung Gear VR?

I tried going to the Amazon Video website on the Samsung Internet VR web browser, but when I click an episode it just tells me to download the "Amazon Underground" app, which is a non-VR app for watching Amazon Video on the Samsung Galaxy S7. Also, I tried clicking "request computer version" in the Samsung VR browser, to trick the site into thinking that I'm on a computer, but then Amazon just displays a message that your browser is not supported.

Is there any way to change the user agent of the Samsung VR browser to something which makes Amazon play the video?

# Answer
There was some speculation around March 2016 about some job offers posted by Amazon, that some commentators interpreted as a hint that they were preparing a VR app for their video service. See this article for example.

However, more than one year later no official statement by Amazon has been issued, and no app has appeared.

It seems that the only alternative currently is to use the unofficial application SideloadVR, as suggested for example by this post answer.

However, it seems than currently not all the Gear VR devices are supported, as suggested by the reviews (and developer replies) on the Play Store. In particular support for popular Galaxy S8/S8+ devices is yet to come.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung, samsung-galaxy-s7, samsung-gear-vr, amazon-video
---


# Question
Title: Can Gear VR on Galaxy S8 be used for Daydream apps
I have an S8, but not yet bought any VR accessory; and I know that Samsung recently added Daydream VR support to the phone. From what I've read, Daydream case is far simpler with most of the sensors in the phone; while Gear VR has sensors in the headset itself.

So it appears to me that other than the controllers, Gear VR headset in hardware terms should cover everything the Daydream headset does. If I buy the 2017 Gear VR (for the controller), will I also be able to view Daydream VR titles, and how will the different controller affect the compatibility?

# Answer
The Galaxy S8 is listed in the official Daydream-ready phones page, so you can definitely use a Daydream headset with your device.

This comparative article points out that both headsets give access to separated stores, with different applications, noting that Gear VR provides overall better hardware and immersion, while Daydream might have a stronger "software" approach.

Now some users managed to get Daydream applications working on their Gear VR, providing you have a Daydream controller - or a second phone to act as one, and follow the (seemingly lengthy) steps of this tutorial: https://www.reddit.com/r/GearVR/comments/5dxd8f/how\_to\_get\_daydream\_apps\_running\_on\_galaxy\_s7/
It seems that you however cannot use the Gear VR controller with a Daydream application.

If you are more inclined to spending money in place of your valuable time, maybe buying the two headsets could give you access to the best of both worlds, and avoid you the headaches inherent to getting unofficial use of the products to work for you.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-8, samsung-gear-vr, daydream-vr
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to run video over type-C smartphones?
Is it possible to run a video from a PC (over type-c, hdmi, or displayport) to a type-c smartphone for VR? What limitations would be faced?

# Answer
If your PC happens to have a WiFi adapter, you don't need to care about the connection type and can stream video content to your device via an application like Plex or Moon VR Player for example.

The limitations are inherent to the video player you choose to use on your phone.

I assume you are interested by VR headsets since you included the tage "samsung-gear-vr".
For Plex for example, there is currently no native support for Gear VR, so you have to access the web interface by Oculus browser or Samsung Internet browser (it also seems to be supported by PhoneCast). You can also use a more complex setup such as the one described in this post.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: usb, video, external-display, video-streaming, samsung-gear-vr
---


# Question
Title: Is there any way to watch Showtime shows on Samsung Gear VR?
Last night the revival of the TV show Twin Peaks started airing on the premium cable TV network Showtime. I'm a Comcast cable customer who's subscribed to Showtime, and I would like to watch Twin Peaks in my Samsung Gear VR headset. So my question is, is there any way to watch Showtimes shows using Samsung Gear VR?

As you can see in this web page, Showtime allows for streaming of their shows through a variety of devices and services, including through Android phones using their mobile app. But they don't have a Gear VR app on the Oculus Store.

But is there still some way of watching their shows through Gear VR? For instance, can it be done through a web browser (either the Samsung Internet VR Browser or the Oculus Browser)? I know that from a computer, you can stream Showtime shows via showtime.com, but when I try to visit showtime.com on my phone it redirects me to a page that links to their mobile app.

# Answer
One idea is to use a Plex account to play the video from the web interface you can access from Oculus Browser or Samsung Internet (it also seems to be supported by PhoneCast).
Then can try to use this client whose Github page claims to be working with TV shows.
I have not tried it (neither Showtime), so I cannot guarantee anything, but you might want to try this solution.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications, samsung-gear-vr
---


# Question
Title: Always Show Navigation Bar Nougat / Disable Immersive Mode
On some apps, the navigation bar and status bar are automatically hidden, and you have to swipe up to see them. Is there a way to force the navigation bar to always be visible on Android Nougat, like on top of the app or next to it?

Edit: In other words, is there a way to disable the immersive mode on Android apps?

# Answer
To force immersive mode and to force non-immersive mode, you must be rooted with Xposed framework installed in it.
To do the same use app Immersive forcer.
This is a xposed module and will work only if used with Xposed framework.

Remember you are not forced to root and by Rooting your phone can be risky and dangerous for your device.
Also, Rooting voids your warranty.
**MAIN THING is there is no xposed framework (official) for nougat till now and installing unofficial version if available can brick (soft/hard) your phone.**
> -1 votes

---
Tags: applications, 7.1-nougat
---


title: Voice typing absent in gboard

text:
# Question
Title: Voice typing absent in gboard
Microphone icon is missing from gboard, is present in other keyboards(Swype, samsung keyboard), doesn't have a toggle setting under gboard settings. I have tried uninstalling gboard, didn't fix. What do I need to do to enable this or troubleshoot the issue?

# Answer
You must have uninstalled "google" app. Install that and then in settings go to languageand input option. There you have to select google keyboard and Google Voice.
> 6 votes

# Answer
To fix, in SETTINGS, select go to language and inputs, select "keyboard and input methods," then "current keyboard," then "change keyboards" then "choose Keyboards" then toggle the "Google Voice Typing" to on.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Go to gboard settings \> preference \> voice input key. Enable it.

Do keep in mind that it is available for some languages only and in supported text fields only.
> 0 votes

# Answer
The best and easiest solution is to go to Settings \> apps \> gboard, then tap on it and toggle the voice texting option.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: google-apps, gboard
---


title: s6 won't fast charge or connect to pc

text:
# Question
Title: s6 won't fast charge or connect to pc
so i have an at&t s6.

suddenly stopped fast charging. and when i say "stopped fast charging," i mean charges slower than molasses now. takes literally about 4hrs to charge from 80% to 100%.

tried multiple known good chargers and cables and verified with both another s5 and s6 activ. found that the computer won't recognize it anymore magically.

i am rooted and have uninstalled a bunch of bloat. shouldn't matter right?

also in developer options- i can check usb debugging, but then in the secret menu (\*0#\*0) or whatever, mtp+adb is unchecked. if i check that, then go back to developer options, usb debugging is unchecked.

I even pulled apart the phone and put in a new daughterboard in case the thing port is broken and put in a new battery both to no avail.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Had the same problem.. sm-920v Solved: Just cleaned the usb-charging port.. pc detect and fast charge working again.. Note: cache partition erase didn't work

# Answer
> 0 votes
Ok so to update- now on my 3rd USB port/ daughter board with no success. Still charges about 20%/hr when not being touched while plugged in, no computer connection, and charges halfway normally when on the wireless pad. Did some more internet scouring and found this guy doing a power amplifier swap:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x\__8r-UiCSo&feature=youtube\_gdata\_player

Gonna give it a shot. Got one for $11 on eBay. Props to the Chinese for having really cheap stuff. Thing should be here in two weeks.

---
Tags: adb, charging, samsung-galaxy-s-6
---


# Question
Title: How to Customize Lock Screen Shortcuts on the OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T
I have installed a new camera app that I'd like to use by default. I set it as the default app in the settings, but that didn't make it the target app for the lock screen shortcut or the O gesture.

# Answer
> 0 votes
The most simple method - and I've tried this on my own OnePlus 3 running OxygenOS Open Beta 21 - is to simply disable the stock camera app - known as "OnePlus Camera" on OnePlus devices.

To disable it, go to `Settings > Apps > OnePlus Camera > Disable`

That should do the trick.

---
Tags: lock-screens, camera, home-screen-shortcuts, oneplus-3, oxygenos
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to install Kali Nethunter's Apps on OxygenOS?
I just bought a OnePlus 3T. I like the OxygenOS, but I wish I had the ability to preform USB HID Attacks and use `apt-get` on OxygenOS if I don't want to install Nethunter. Is this possible?

# Answer
> -1 votes
Try Termux, a free application which allows you to access `apt-get` and many other Unix commands right on your smartphone.

You can also install the `termux-sudo` plugin, which allows you to run commands with root access.

---
Tags: applications, rooting, oneplus-3, oxygenos
---


# Question
Title: Unlock Samsung S5(SM-G900W8) bootloader without rooting
I am performing some tests on android devices, to properly do this I need to first unlock the device bootloader and run my tests on the device after which I then root the device and perform the tests again. I was able to unlock the bootloader for an HTC One m8 device using the offficial HTCDev instructions and then rooting by using TWRP Recovery and SuperSU. I need to replicate this process step by step for a Samsung Galaxy S5(SM-G900W8) device but I can't figure out how to unlock the bootloader for the device without rooting first. I have tried to follow the instructions here but it gets stuck in odin mode(step 7) and I have to do a battery pull. My question is how does one unlock the bootloader for this device nd then go about rooting it? Thank you.

# Answer
Unlike HTC, 1) most older non-AT&T/Verizon Samsung devices have their BL unlocked by default, and 2) Odin to Samsung is `fastboot` to others, just you can only access it with Odin/Heimdall on PC.

Just find suitable images (e.g. TWRP) and flash away with Odin.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: rooting, samsung, samsung-galaxy-s-5, bootloader-lock
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to stream a tablet screen to desktop via bluetooth to a PC?
This way you could give a presentation (and make annotations), show movies on your tablet and stream it to your PC/laptop which is connected with bluetooth (in e.g. a classroom) with no need to go to the PC.

Has anybody used this setup?

As a teacher it would make a smartboard out of my tablet (which i would buy for this purpose, amongst few others) and a simple bluetooth dongle which I could plug in the school PC.

Looks simple to me, but probably isn't as simple as I imagine?

I'm even prepared to pay a fee for an app if this is available.

# Answer
I do not know of a way to display your tablet screen other than some sort of display adapter. Things like this with the receiver would allow you to do it wirelessly, but they get mighty expensive.

Additionally, I do not believe bluetooth is designed as a "Display out" port, so to say, and I am hard pressed to believe it would be easy to do this, beside the fact that you may need to write that yourself.

I would recommend something like Splashtop Remote. *This does not display your tablet screen on the PC* but **allows you to see and control your PC screen from your tablet**. So you could not share your tablet screen, but you could still walk around the classroom with your tablet and control what is being projected to the screen.

Also, and I don't know if this works over bluetooth, but you could try the Android Screencast Project. Maybe it has what you need!

I know it's not the solution you're looking for, but hopefully it helps!
> 1 votes

# Answer
I too would like to do this, but mainly so that I can handwrite text and mathematics on slides presented on my laptop in PowerPoint.

I tried Splashtop Remote as suggested by another responder. While this is seems to be an excellent tool for remotely controlling your computer, the latency and slightly unreliable nature of the connection means that it is not good enough to transmit readable handwriting.

The other option I'm considering (which you might too) would be to just plug the tablet directly into the projection system (assuming that's what you're using), i.e. do everything from the tablet. There are several options (Keynote, Polaris Office etc., depending on your hardware) for presentation software that will run on tablets.
> 1 votes

# Answer
I am using Screen Stream on Android. It works great!
> 0 votes

# Answer
No need for internet or bluetooth. All that's needed is a wireless router and a smart tv. Once your handheld device and smart tv are linked to the wireless router, then you'll have a network setup to stream from your device to the smart tv. Using Google's home app.
> 0 votes

# Answer
There is software that I am looking at called SmartClass by Radix software. Do a search on Youtube and you will see it in action. :-) I have been in contact with the software developer and we will be going with the application if we get classroom tablets.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: bluetooth, screen-sharing
---


# Question
Title: Restoring build.prop file after it got wiped
I have a stock + rooted Nexus 6 on Android 6.0.1. The editor I was using bugged out and wiped my `build.prop` file. I haven't rebooted yet, so the phone is still fine able to do things. There is no backup of the file.

What are my options here? Is there an easy way to fix this?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Go find and download the stock ROM for your phone and try to extract `build.prop` from it. Then place it in the correct directory and change its owner and permission.

Factory images for Nexus (and Pixel) phones are always available from Google.

Also there's a similar issue from another website. You can download the ROm but **only flash system** so that the system partition will be restored. You may have to root again if you're not using a systemless root.

---
Tags: root-access, restore, nexus-6, build.prop
---


title: Ingress Scanner Tracking problems

text:
# Question
Title: Ingress Scanner Tracking problems
I just wanted to ask how to solve this small issue with Ingress. I have normal data connection which I use to play Ingress, however whenever I try to move to a portal, the location shown doesn't change. So I'm just curious as to what should I do for my location to normally, constantly update like it should do.

I read some similar problems and solutions like updating Google maps or resetting cashe/memory etc. But if this has its own method of solution, I'd appreciate a tip. Thanks for any tips you may have.

# Answer
Some devices have better GPS chips, that are able to get the user's location faster. The best you can do is go to `Settings > Location` and set it to either `GPS Only` / `Device only` or `High accuracy` and in the overflow menu, tap `Advanced`, then enable `WiFi scanning`

Also, to check that it isn't a problem with Ingress, try opening Google Maps and see if your location is correct, i.e. next to the portal. If not, try reinstalling Ingress.

This use to happen with me on my old Samsung SGH-i927 - for $150 the GPS was terrible. When I upgraded to the Nexus 5 and then OnePlus 3, the difference was very noticeable.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: gps-tracking, google-play-games
---


title: What this mobile icon in my status bar?

text:
# Question
Title: What this mobile icon in my status bar?
I can't identify the icon (that looks like a mobile icon) next to my network speed indicator. What is it and what does it mean?

# Answer
This is the orientation indicator. This shows that auto-rotate is turned off and phone will stay in potrait mode only. Turning on auto-rotate will hide the icon or change it depending on your rom.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat, notification-icons
---


# Question
Title: Beginners question: Difference between memory and RAM
When I was young, memory and RAM were the same, but now they seems to be different (this is called progress).

But what exactly is the difference in modern smartphones?

What is (free) RAM and when is (free) RAM important?

How can I help it as a user?

# Answer
> 1 votes
> What is the difference exactly in modern smartphones?

In Computer Science, **memory** is a wide concept for *everything that is capable of storing data*, while **RAM** only stands for *Random Access Memory*, or more precisely, *runtime memory*.

**Memory** is the same word that the M stands for in both acronyms ROM and RAM. It's simply because both of them can store data, despite one being non-volatile and the other being volatile.

These concepts haven't changed even if you're talking about modern smartphones.

Fore more information, see Are there guidelines on how much free RAM a phone should have? and our tag wiki for `ram`

> *What* is (free) *RAM* and when is (free) RAM important?

Whenever a process runs, it requires RAM to store is runtime data. When many processes run together, they demand more RAM. You should never make your phone's RAM full, so a portion of its RAM is available for use when a process requests more. That "available for use" RAM is called **free RAM** (or more precisely, "*available* RAM").

Free RAM is always important, but it is often **more important** when you're trying to start another app or running a resource-intensive app. It is because when there isn't enough RAM, some processes may fail, and resource-intensive apps will refuse to run.

> *How* can I as *a* user help it?

If you're using a moderately new phone, leave it alone because Android can handle it very well. Stay away from "RAM cleaner"s and "Task Killer"s as they do no help actually.

If you're using an old phone with 256 MB or so of RAM running Android 2.x, you should install less apps and routinely terminate them, ~~or throw it away and buy a new phone~~.

# Answer
> 0 votes
"Memory" is a vague term. It can refer to the *RAM* (the memory programs use while they're running) or to the *storage* (where things are saved). The storage is the equivalent of a hard disk on your PC, but it's not actually a hard disk, it's Flash memory.

You need free *storage* to install new apps or download music, videos, etc. If you run out of storage, you might need to free up some yourself by uninstalling apps or deleting downloaded files.

You need free *RAM* to run more apps, but this is managed by Android. When an app runs, it starts using RAM, but when you stop using it (back out of it, or switch to another app), Android doesn't remove it from RAM right away. This way, the app starts faster next time you run it, because it doesn't need to load everything from storage again. But when all the RAM is full, Android will remove apps that you haven't used in a while. Next time you start those apps, they'll be loaded from storage.

Normally you don't need to worry about how much free RAM you have, because Android manages it.

---
Tags: internal-storage, ram
---


title: Google Apps version for Moto E2

text:
# Question
Title: Google Apps version for Moto E2
What version of open gapps should I get if flashing android 7.1 Lineage Is on my Moto E2 Surnia XT1524

# Answer
> 0 votes
A quick search tells me that Moto E2 runs on Snapdragon 410, which is a typical mid-end 64-bit SoC. However, I investigated its stock ROM and found it's a 32-bit one.

So you should download **OpenGApps ARM 7.1 pico** in order to get the bare minimum Google Play functionality. You may want to pick another package if you want to have more of Google, but remember to choose **ARM** from the first column and **7.1** from the second.

According to *Andy Yan*, if you attempt to flash a wrong OpenGApps package, it will refuse to install and tell you the right one you should pick.

---
Tags: motorola-moto-e
---


# Question
Title: Why, and how to increase 16-character lockscreen password limit?
This is a problem that has annoyed me, as the password that I have memorized is around the 20-character mark, yet Android limits it to 16 characters

Why, and how to increase, 16-character lockscreen password limit?

If it's relevant, the Android is running on 5.1 Lollipop.

# Answer
> 9 votes
From Android Security Internals: An In-Depth Guide to Android's Security :

> Android doesn’t have a dedicated setting to manage the encryption pass- word after the device is encrypted, and changing the screen lock password or PIN will also silently change the device encryption password. This is most probably a usability-driven decision: most users would be confused by having to remember and enter two different passwords at different times and would probably quickly forget the less frequently used, and possibly more complex, disk encryption password. While this design is good for usability, it effectively forces users to use a simple disk encryption password, because they have to enter it each time they unlock the device, usually dozens of times a day. No one wants to enter a complex password that many times, and thus most users opt for a simple numeric PIN (unless a device policy requires otherwise)
>
> Additionally, **passwords are limited to 16 characters (a limit that is hardwired in the framework and not configurable)**, so using a passphrase is not an option

(Emphasis supplied)

I don't know more about this *limitation* and would be glad if somebody can amplify (**Edit:** Andrew T has clarified here to an extent)

So, that rules out increasing password length to beyond 16 ( *how to increase, Androids 16 character lockscreen password limit* )

Since you are on Lollipop , you may like to related pitfall (claimed to be fixed) of long passwords here Android lockscreen can be bypassed by overloading with massive password

**Note:**

# Answer
> 6 votes
From the commit comment max password length symbols is limited only for UI reasons. Maybe there is no other reason which requires the lockscreen password to be up to 17 symbols (16+1)

EDIT: I created android build and tested with max password length 100 symbols and it is working for lock screen and also for encryption password

```
Fix 2504863: Use password min/max constants in ChooseLockPassword
This fixes a bug where the system was defaulting to 8 digits max password length.
The UI is best for N <=12, but works for more. I set the default limit to 16 which is more than most humans can remember.
That also seems to be the practical limit for the small sample of DevicePolicyManagers I checked.
DevicePolicyManagers can always specify more digits if they really want.
Change-Id: I8637e0c9366800886759424b5a28f48dca15c535

```

https://osdn.net/users/zhicai\_peng/pf/packages-apps-Settings/scm/commits/70d5c3a0139899e5f4d425c8ab2d68f0dfc5c6da

---
Tags: lock-screens, security, password
---


title: Cricket Galaxy S8 Use on AT&T

text:
# Question
Title: Cricket Galaxy S8 Use on AT&T
Can I use a Samsung Galaxy S8 from Cricket on AT&T without having it unlocked? Thanks

# Answer
> 0 votes
No, Cricket (and other MVNO branded devices) cannot be used on another network, even their "parent" network, like AT&T in this case, without being SIM unlocked by the owning carrier. It is not the same as AT&T branded phones which CAN be used on it's MVNO's (like Cricket or H2O) without being unlocked.

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-s-8
---


# Question
Title: Verify that an APK has been built from given source code
For the same app, I have:

* an **APK** from an app store,
* what is claimed to be the **source code** for the same version. With a pretty usual Gradle build script and structure.

I want to **check whether the APK was really built from that source code** or not.
How to check that?

*Notes:*

* The APK is not obfuscated.
* I have no reason to trust anyone's signature. I only trust the source code.
* I already built the app for myself, but now I want to know whether the APK was OK or not.
* Preferably with Linux command-line tools, but any tool is OK.

# Answer
You can only do this with **reproducible builds:**

> **"A build is reproducible if given the same source code, build environment and build instructions, any party can recreate bit-by-bit identical copies of all specified artifacts."**

So the app developer or the app store needs to be on board in order for it to work.
Otherwise your only option is to build it yourself.

One example of a developer who currently does this is Open Whisper Systems: https://github.com/WhisperSystems/Signal-Android/wiki/Reproducible-Builds
> 2 votes

# Answer
One great thing about java and APKs is you can completely decompile the APK to java source code.

However, the resulting source code isn't guaranteed to be identical.

One good way to try and match up the resulting source code with a known revision is to check what modifications were made directly before and after the known commit in the repository, and see if those modifications are also present in the decompiled source.

To decompile, use dex2jar and JD-Gui.

*edit* I just noticed you wanted linux tools. My only experience is with windows, but I'm sure similar tools exist for linux.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: security, apk
---


# Question
Title: FRP Huawei P9 Lite with Voice keyboard only
I have recently just installed the Huawei P9 Lite Nougat beta update (EMUI 5 Update) and, when I wanted to setup the phone, I needed to do the FRP Verification (Which I can't because I have the voice keyboard only) Does anyone know the bypass for this or maybe a solution? Thank you! P.S. It is the test keys version.

# Answer
I just used this keyboard, dictating my data by letters, then i opened the Google play and downloaded a normal gboard. That wass really hard, but i did it.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: factory-reset, google, huawei, 7.0-nougat
---


title: Notification without vibration

text:
# Question
Title: Notification without vibration
I'd like to have notifications for Outlook for Android to appear in the notification bar, but not get vibrations every time a new email is received. How can I do that?

# Answer
From your Outlook inbox, go to your settings (gear icon in the top right) and select "Notifications". There should be an option to disable vibration there:
> 2 votes

---
Tags: notifications, vibration, outlook
---


title: wpa_supplicant.conf permission

text:
# Question
Title: wpa_supplicant.conf permission
So I'm facing this problem for a while now . What happens is that my phone reboots automatically sometimes and after the reboot I can't use my WiFi . The button is stuck at off:

So after doing some research on this I wiped my `/data/misc/WiFi` folder to fix it (didn't create a backup though). So the problem got fixed but it came back again. So I wiped again and it didn't work this time.

In order to restore the folder I copied the WPA\_supplicant files in the folder manually. But I don't know what permission to set it to . And even if I change the permissions it gets reverted back to 0660. Also I don't know whether the the `.conf` file is even compatible for my phone as I got that one from an XDA post.

Can anybody guide me how I can fix this ?

# Answer
On my phone permissions and ownership looks like:

```
ls -las /data/misc/wifi/
12 drwxrwx---  4 wifi   wifi    4096 2017-08-14 16:30 .
 8 drwxrwx--t 39 system misc    4096 2017-08-12 20:54 ..
 8 -rw-rw----  1 system wifi      21 2017-08-14 16:30 entropy.bin
48 -rw-rw----  1 system wifi   43098 2017-08-12 22:36 hostapd.conf
 8 -rw-------  1 system system  3136 2017-08-12 23:27 ipconfig.txt
52 -rw-------  1 system system 44517 2017-08-14 16:30 networkHistory.txt
 4 -rw-rw----  1 wifi   wifi     186 2017-08-14 16:30 p2p_supplicant.conf
12 drwxrwx---  2 wifi   wifi    4096 2017-08-14 16:30 sockets
 8 -rw-------  1 system system    20 2017-08-12 22:36 softap.conf
12 drwxrwx---  2 wifi   wifi    4096 1970-01-10 00:56 wpa_supplicant
16 -rw-rw----  1 wifi   wifi   10957 2017-08-14 16:30 wpa_supplicant.conf

```
> 1 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, root-access, troubleshooting, file-permissions, wpa-supplicant
---


# Question
Title: "Improve Location Accuracy" question won't stop coming up
Immediately, no matter if I hit "yes" or "no", it will pop up one second later when I'm on Tinder. No matter how many times I answer, it will just come right back up immediately. I've tried uninstalling and reinstalling the app, and figuring with my wifi settings. Solutions?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I use an app callled "automagic premium"

I created a flow that launches whenever "network" appear in `"System.secure.location_providers_allowed"`

It pops up a message box causing the prompt we both hate to go away - and never be agreed to.

---
Tags: notifications
---


# Question
Title: How to distinguish the Google Pixel phone from Verizon?
How to distinguish the Google Pixel phone from Verizon? I do not see any Verizon app in there, maybe because it has reset once?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I have been reading online and this is what I have gathered.

You need to check the following using the CID Getter app.

Alternatively, it has been mentioned you can also check the OEM Unlocking option here. If it is grayed out it isn't available for your phone.

---
Tags: google-pixel, verizon
---


# Question
Title: How can I run the Android emulator together with another VM?
Whenever I open an Android emulator when a different kind of VM is already running, I get the "usual" error messages:

> emulator: Failed to sync vcpu reg
> emulator: Failed to sync HAX vcpu context

Here it is recommended not to run another VM, but what if I need the another VM for development, or to run the server for my Android app on it? Is there a way to run a VirtualBox Linux guest VM and the Android emulator at the same time? My host OS is OSX if that matters.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Yes, there is a way to run a VirtualBox Linux guest VM and the Android emulator at the same time.

I have a working setup doing exactly this now, and its reasonably simple. To solve the problem above, you can run Genymotion as your Android emulator, and Virtualbox for your Linux guest VM virtual machine.

This counteracts the problem described in the answers above as Genymotion uses Virtualbox "underneath" as a hypervisor, meaning both of your Virtual Machines (The Linux Guest and the Android emulator) are running in the same hypervisor. This is exactly what hypervisors are meant for.

Also, to clarify the meaning of the poster in the link you gave, who states "it is recommended not to run another VM", I think what he means is that you can't also run other hypervisors (Docker and Virtualbox are described there) in parallel with Android Emulator, for the reasons described by other answers here.

# Answer
> 2 votes
You can’t run two different emulation stacks on your processor at the same time. Sorry, it wouldn’t happen.

Update: Your processor can only run one emulation system at the time. Kernel modules will “reserve” the right to use the processor’s emulation capabilities at the exclusion of any other emulator that want to use it. So you can only use VMware, VirtualBox, HyperV, etc. separately.

# Answer
> 0 votes
> emulator: Failed to sync HAX vcpu context

HAX stands for **H**ardware **A**ccelerated e**X**ecution. It is not really possible to run 2 different hypervisors correctly using hardware acceleration — they don't know what the other is doing and both would try to use the hardware for their own purposes. Trying to do so is more or less the same as trying to run two non-virtualized OSes at the same time, which clearly can't work.

Now, you might be able to run a purely software-based virtual machine at the same time as an Android emulator — but its performance will suffer greatly (depending on what you're using it for). I've found that the Android emulator is so slow as to be worthless without hardware acceleration, so you definitely don't want to disable it.

However, Memu seems pretty performant and plays nicely with VMware on my machine, so that might be an option for you. I have not tried any development with Memu, however; I couldn't get ADB to work.

# Answer
> -1 votes
It is indeed possible. You need to run HAXM version 6.1.1 at least.

If you upgrade to this version, it will work.

After upgrade, DO make sure the correct version is running by running:

```
$ANDROID_HOME/extras/intel/Hardware_Accelerated_Execution_Manager/silent_install.sh -v

```

If it reports an older version, you might have to run the installer manually by running:

```
sudo $ANDROID_HOME/extras/intel/Hardware_Accelerated_Execution_Manager/silent_install.sh

```

---
Tags: android-emulator, virtualbox
---


title: How to create a recovery partition?

text:
# Question
Title: How to create a recovery partition?
I have a Sony Xperia SP with 'Bootloader unlock allowed: No'. I want to flash a custom ROM to the device but there seems to be no recovery partition on it, so I cannot install TWRP or use fastboot. Using `adb` and `ls -l` yields (output cropped):

```
...
dr-xr-xr-x root     root              1970-01-01 01:00 proc
-rw-r--r-- root     root         2109 1970-01-01 01:00 property_contexts
drwxr-xr-x root     root              1970-01-01 01:00 res
drwx------ root     root              2014-05-11 12:44 root
drwxr-x--- root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 sbin
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 sdcard -> /storage/emulated/legacy
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 sdcard1 -> /storage/removable/sdcard1
...

```

`ls -al /dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name` yields:

```
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 Boot -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p2
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 Boot2 -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p3
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 Cache -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p14
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 FOTAKernel -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p11
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 Kernel -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p4
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 LTALabel -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p12
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 System -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p13
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 TA -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p1
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 TZ -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p5
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 Userdata -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p15
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 apps_log -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p10
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 fsg -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p8
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 modemst1 -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p6
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 modemst2 -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p7
lrwxrwxrwx root     root              1970-01-25 01:39 ramdump -> /dev/block/mmcblk0p9

```

My question is: Is it possible to *create* a new recovery partition, and if so, how does it have to be done? Or is it possible to flash a custom ROM *without* this partition? Thanks.

# Answer
> 2 votes
> Is it possible to create a new recovery partition, and if so, how does it have to be done?

No, it is not possible... later Sony devices use what is called "Recovery in Boot" and recovery resides inside the boot partition... Makes it much more difficult to install TWRP or other custom recovery or software because a custom boot image (kernel) is required.

> Or is it possible to flash a custom ROM without this partition?

Yes you can, in fact it is a requirement since stock software won't work with TWRP installed (the boot image fails validation, at least last time I looked), because there is a way to patch the boot partition and install TWRP.

So is the question how to install TWRP? No, that isn't really it either because with a locked bootloader you cannot.

This is a journey you can take with help in a more relevant place... I already answered your questions as asked, but will give you some references to start reading about all the steps required.

Unlock bootloader

Official TWRP information

Install TWRP and FOTAkernel

---
Tags: recovery-mode, custom-roms, sony-xperia
---


title: Flaky Wi-Fi on an Android tablet

text:
# Question
Title: Flaky Wi-Fi on an Android tablet
We have been experiencing an odd issue with tablets that we sell, and our vendor is being no help, so we are forced to take matters into our own hands – but so far we've been unsuccessful.

Specs:

* OS: Android 5.1
* Wi-Fi: Ampak AP6255 onboard Wi-Fi module with a single band antenna.

Issue:

The device will see networks and confirm if the correct/incorrect credentials were entered in, but will almost always never connect. If the device does connect, it will not stay connected. We've swapped multiple antennas out, but the issue still occurs. On a Wi-Fi analyzer, the signal consistently dips. The only way we can stay connected to a network is to connect to a 5 GHz signal, which is very inconvenient.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Check your environment. 2.4GHz is almost always saturated which causes interference and is very sensitive to certain signals such as Microwaves, Cordless phones, certain wireless fire alarms etc... The best thing you can do is purchase (if you don't already have one) a Metageek Chanalyzer:
http://www.metageek.com/products/wi-spy/?utm\_expid=190328-202.Egk2FYNZQd6ZdJAUVdEvVA.0&utm\_referrer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metageek.com%2F.
This will definitely show you visually the state of your 2.4GHz environment. Since 2.4GHz only has three non-overlapping channels (1, 6, 11) you may be out of luck. 5GHz may be your only solution because it has 23+ channels you can choose from. The air quality in the 5GHz band is pretty clean.

---
Tags: wi-fi
---


title: Showing date of alarm in top tray

text:
# Question
Title: Showing date of alarm in top tray
On my Zenfone AR with Android 7.0, I am annoyed that the alarm notifications show the time of the next alarm, but not the day. In the example below, I have an alarm set for 06:00 two days from now, but looking at this screen, it looks to me as if the alarm would be set for tomorrow morning. There's no way to check what day I will be woken up early other than going into the alarm app and checking my list of alarms there.

Is there any way to change this? (The same thing goes for the lock screen.)

# Answer
> 0 votes
I found a workaround: using the Shortcutter app for custom QuickSetting tiles, it's possible to add a "next alarm" icon (and several other tweaks too).

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat, alarm
---


title: Enter the "private sandbox folder"

text:
# Question
Title: Enter the "private sandbox folder"
I've been using a voice recorded app on Android called "Parrot" that stores recordings to

> SD card\Android\data\com.SearingMedia.Parrot\files\parrot

I know they're here because when I select a recorded file from within the app, and press on details, it says

> File location: \data\user\0\com.SearingMedia.Parrot\files\parrot\Jun 09,063342.wav"

However, when I connect my phone to the computer, the folder is empty. The files work, as they can be heard when played from the app, but they just don't appear on the file explorer.

Now, I saw the developers wrote this as an answer to somebody asking the same:

> Hi David, Internal recorders are stored in a folder that is in a private sandbox folder which is inaccessible to other apps for security. You will need to share all of your tracks outside of the application. Long press on a row to start the multi-select tool then tap on all of your tracks. We suggest sharing using our SendAnywhere integration.

I don't want to use these wireless methods. Is there any way at all that I could access these files on this protected folder, by merely connecting the phone to a computer?

# Answer
You could use another sharing option such as Share to SD. This will save the file locally on your device in a non-sandboxed location, and you will then be able to access it from your computer.
> 0 votes

# Answer
I also use Parrot for all my recording purposes, so here's the solution:

First, in the settings of Parrot you need to choose *External* instead of *Internal* for the memory storage location. Weirdly, Parrot will then store your files in the internal memory in a folder called "Parrot".

After that, when I connect the phone to the PC and I can see "Parrot" folder in the internal memory section, but none of the recordings. So, install an app like "FX Explorer" on the phone, which is pretty much my default file browser. Then browse to the "Parrot", from the menu select *Rescan media*, and refresh the Windows Explorer on PC, the files will show up. :)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: backup
---


title: Does OEM unlock wipe data?

text:
# Question
Title: Does OEM unlock wipe data?
I am using samsung galaxy j7, in the developer options there is a option "OEM Unlock" if I turn it on will it wipe my data?

Also does samsung locks bootloaders? My device is not tied to any carrier.

# Answer
Toggling the setting in Developer Options does nothing but allow the bootloader to be unlocked, however actually unlocking the bootloader will wipe all data, just toggling the setting in Developer Options will not. It would be more proper to call the setting "OEM Unlocking is Allowed".

Otherwise here might be a good place to start looking for more information.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, samsung, bootloader-lock
---


title: How to wipe a phone with lost code?

text:
# Question
Title: How to wipe a phone with lost code?
I've got a company owned Android phone that needs to be wiped to prepare it for re-use, but it's locked with a passcode. I also do not see it listed in our MDM software, so I can't force a remote wipe that way. It appears that it could be wiped with a Google account, but I do not know what Google account it may have been linked to. Is there a way to expose which Google account it was attached to in the hopes it's one we have access to? Or is there a way to totally reset it to factory and wipe the data?

# Answer
> 1 votes
There are two possible ways from here:

1. Hard Reset: This will wipe all data stored on the phone, see this on how to perform a hard reset using hardware buttons.
2. Try something like Dr.Phone software to remove screen lock.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Here's the trick, when you hard reset your android device, one would want to believe that all the personal information are completely deleted and safe from any other user of the device. But far from it, even after the **hard reset**, some data which might include personal data, still remains accessible on the local storage.

Even after **hard resetting** the device, all the data remains present phone memory and can be easily recovered with any good `data-recovery tool`. Therefore if you should just do a simple **Hard reset** or **Factory rest** as the case might be, and another user gets his/her hands on the device, they can easily recover most of the personal data of the previous user using a **`data-recovery tool`**.

To fully wipe your personal data from any android device, try the steps below;

# Encrypt the android device before Hard resetting it

Encrypting the device before hard resetting will disorganize or scramble the data on the device, making it almost impossible for whoever that will want to recover the data using any `data-recovering tool`, because he/she will have to provide a specific key to organize or unscramble the data.

To encrypt the device, click on your **menu list** =\> **settings** =\> **Security** =\> **Encrypt phone** ensure that the device is connected to a charger to prevent any lost of data, then you finally click on **Encrypt phone**, sit back for a while and wait for it to encrypt completely.

# Factory Reset the Android device

When you've successfully encrypted the device data, the next thing to do is to Factory reset the device, but **NOTE** This will erase all of the data on the device, but in your case, you're aware of that already.

To Factory Reset the device, click on your **menu list** =\> **Settings** =\> **Backup and reset** from here, you should see the **Google account** attached to to the device, but to still continue with the resetting, click **Factory data reset** which usually should be at the end. =\> **Reset phone** or **Reset device**.

Ensure you have adequate charge on your battery to handle the entire process and that battery is not mistakenly pulled off during the process, because if any happens, it can lead to corrupting of data.

---

> To be on the safer side to add another layer of protection, you can do these again to prevent any **MINAMOTO** individual from doing any funny thing

---

# Load any dummy data

Following the 1st and 2nd steps should be enough for most people, but as I said to be safer, load fake data on the device again, you can connect your phone to a PC and copy/paste large files maybe videos, enough to fill/or almost fill all the space.

# Redo the 2nd step (Factory Reset the Android device)

Carry on another factory reset, this should erase the dummy content you loaded onto the device. This will make it even harder for any other user of the device to locate your data because it will be buried below the dummy content.

I hope these helps.

---
Tags: password-protection
---


# Question
Title: How can I reset Google play store pin if I can't remember it?
I want to download apps that my parental controls won't let me do and I can't remember my pin. How can I change it please or reset it?

# Answer
The easiest way out is to reset your Google account by;

# Change or reset your password

You can change your password for security reasons or reset it if you forget it. Your **Google Account** password is used to access many Google products, like Play-store, Gmail and YouTube.

# Change your password

> * Sign in to My Account.
> * Under "Sign-in & security," select Signing in to Google.
> * Choose Password. If you see a prompt to sign in again, sign in.
> * Enter your new password, then select Change Password.

# Reset your password

> \*Go to the Account support page. \*Follow the instructions. You'll be asked some questions to confirm it's your account and an email will be sent to you. If you don’t get an email:
>
> * Check your Spam or Bulk Mail folders
> * Add noreply@google.com to your address book.
> * Request another email.
> * Check all email addresses you might've used to sign up or sign in to your account.
>
> \*Choose a password that you haven't already used with this account. Learn how to create a strong password.

Source: Google Account Help
> 1 votes

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


# Question
Title: What does the command `adb sideload FILE` do?
I am reading a tutorial on the sideload command at link.

It contains the steps of rebooting into recovery mode and using adb sideload \[file\].zip.

My question is that what does sideload actually do with that zip file ? In the past I have compiled AOSP and flashed a device using

* adb reboot-bootloader
* adb fastboot flashall -w

Is sideload trying to achieve something similar to the above ?

**Edit**:

I think my confusion relating to sideload stems from my lack of understanding of how Android's memory is structured. I found two links.

First is a link that explains Android partitions : partitions

Second is a SO answer, that explains Android's memory: memory

Now my understanding so far is this :

Android has RAM and ROM. ROM is divided into several partitions, namely, /system, /data, /boot, /recovery, /cache, /misc and /sdcard.

Now the link relating to sideload states that this command installs a zip file.

What I don't understand still is that, is this zip file, going to replace the entire ROM in Android ? Namely, will it have to have the right partitions as in the list above ?

This also makes me confused about a similar command 'fastboot flashall'. I know when I run it, the terminal goes by saying its writing to several of the partitions. So my questions boil down to these :

1) Is sideload replacing entire ROM ?

2) Is the related command 'fastboot flashall' also replacing entire ROM ?

3) Are there ways to replace select partitions ?

Thanks.

# Answer
1. Adb sideload command just loads a zip file from the computer to the phone. The creator of the zip controls what it does (the recovery just uploads it from the computer and looks at a specific file).

You can do a lot with it, but it's not a full rom, it's cannot replace a rom. Here is an example of an update.zip I once wrote and sideloaded it to a phone:

`mount("yaffs2", "MTD", "userdata", "/data");
delete("/data/system/gesture.key");
delete("/data/system/password.key");
ui_print("Done!");`

It deletes a couple of files, and prints a successful result.

2.The command `fastboot flash all` can replace an entire rom, because it does a bunch of operations like format a partition and install a new rom. But you can flash other files that don't do those things (but often this command do exactly that.)

3.You can do a lot of things in the adb command line, like delete a partition a flash or just copy something else to it. What exactly do you want to do? On which partition?

Hope this is helpful, and check out the android developers page on adb ( http://developer.android.com/tools/help/adb.html ).
> 3 votes

# Answer
It allows you to flash new firmware or install apps you have developed with the Android SDK.

This is discussed in my question here:

Alldaymall A88s popping up a bunch of junk from PornClub. I have it rooted. Now what?
> 1 votes

---
Tags: adb, rom
---


title: Mobile hotspot without cell service?

text:
# Question
Title: Mobile hotspot without cell service?
I will be at a solar eclipse festival where there is no cell service (it's waaaaay out in the boonies). I would like to distribute a viewing guide (PDF) for attendees to view on their mobile devices.

What would be the best way to do this? Can it even be done? Can I create a mobile hotspot from my Android or Windows device even though there is no cell service? If so, can I create a simple page to allow them to download the document? How would I do that?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Yes, you can create mobile hotspot without cell service, at least in stock Android. The easiest way to mass share a file I think of is by hosting an FTP server. You can find apps for that in Play Store. I grabbed WiFi FTP Server from the first ones in Play Store, which worked well. Here's what you need to do:

1. Start mobile hotspot and keep the security to None so that others could connect to hotspot freely.
2. Launch that app, go to its Settings:
    * tick **Anonymous access** -- so that others can access the server freely
    * select **Root folder** and select a directory where your pdf file(s) would be kept. Ideally, you should create a dedicated directory (through a file manager app) for it so that others would automatically be able to view only that directory.
    * tick **Read only** -- you don't want others to modify contents in your storage
3. On the app's home page, select **Start**.

You would get something like this:

<sub>(Click image to enlarge)</sub>
4. Ask people to enter the URL in their browser. That's it.

---
Tags: wifi-hotspot
---


# Question
Title: Restore ALL information after factory reset
I've done a factory reset on my Samsung galaxy A5 (2016) with android 6.0.1.

I've done a factory reset today, then restored my account from Google drive. Many things have been restored correctly, although some are not restored, like:

* themes and background picture
* organisation of apps on home screen
* memos
* alarms in clock app
* cookies in chrome
* ...

Is there a way to get them back?
If not, then is there a way (app) to backup them?

## Update

I'd to restore my phone as its gps wasn't working (I've tried various apps to fix / reset it without success)

Notes: I mean built-in notes app of my phone.

Theme & backound: no those haven't been restored

# Answer
> 1 votes
Restore using the Samsung Cloud. I've done this recently and I got back my sms messages, alarms, background, and everything. Hopefully your backup was setup automatically on your phone...This quick youtube video might help https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ly8HyxbXQGU

---
Tags: backup
---


# Question
Title: Install WhatsApp on Android x86 virtual machine
I installed android-x86-6.0-r3.iso on

```
$ virtualbox -help
Oracle VM VirtualBox Manager 5.1.22_Ubuntu

```

using:

```
$ lsb_release -a
No LSB modules are available.
Distributor ID: Ubuntu
Description:    Ubuntu 17.04
Release:    17.04
Codename:   zesty

```

If I open Play Store app and select WhatsApp, there is no option to install it. Only the option "add to wishlist" appears.

Is it possible to install WhatsApp via Play Store app on Android x86 virtual machine?

# Answer
> 2 votes
There is no direct way for installing WhatsApp for virtual device from Google Playstore.

* Android x86 doesn't come with all features (core features e.g play services, services framework etc) and SIM functionality is also missing.
* The virtual device being treated as as "tablet" is incompatible, as WhatsApp states:

> Tablet devices are not supported

There are workarounds however to install it on the virtual device.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Check out this thread Install WhatsApp on Android running under Virtualbox .

You could also try the Bluestacks Android Emulator. Easier setup and you can download any app from the Google Play Store including Whats app. Genymotion (free version) is also another good one.

---
Tags: whatsapp-messenger, virtualbox
---


title: What is SOAgent in Samsung Galaxy?

text:
# Question
Title: What is SOAgent in Samsung Galaxy?
What is SOAgent in Samsung Galaxy, and why it can connect to internet by itself?

How to Block SOAgent from Accessing the Internet ?

(and also it can't be disabled, SOAgent is very suspicious app)

# Answer
SOAgent (package name `com.sec.android.soagent`), is a system application or rather manufacturers tool that comes preloaded in most Samsung devices.

It is one of the packages responsible for checking software/security OTA updates, readying, alerting the user and downloading such updates. As a system application it does have such privileges to access the internet to check for updates regularly to the annoyance of many users (not really necessary to sending alerts to download) because sometimes one may not be ready to install new updates.

One can remove (if rooted) or disable this package if not rooted.

Android already has mechanisms to do such checks, since other devices receive updates without the presence of such an application or even doing offline updates will be great news for some.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: applications
---


# Question
Title: Do the Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P have the same camera?
The Nexus 6P has an excellent camera.

Is the camera hardware and photo-processing on the Nexus 5X exactly the same as the 6P?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Yes, the Nexus 6P and 5X share the same 12MP camera with a Sony-made sensor according to this article on XDA, which is generally considered a reliable source.

---
Tags: camera
---


# Question
Title: How to change fonts in motrola moto X XT-1060?
My phone is Moto X, verizon running 5.1 and I am unable to figure out how to change font for my phone as there exist no font settings under Settings \> Display.

Previously I was using Samsung galaxy J5 and there were font settings under display but for my Moto, there is no such option even in applications from Playstore for this purpose. They won't just do not do the job as they redirect me to settings page and prompting me to navigate through Display \> Fonts but as I already mentioned there exist no font settings.

Moreover I cannot root my phone as it just do not connect to PC due to some driver issues. So my question is that:

* Is there any way I can change font of my device without my PC getting involved?

# Answer
Changing device fonts varies from device to device (it is normally found in Settings under Display section). From there you can change the actual font, as well as the font size e.g some Samsung Android devices let you change the font style in this manner. (Samsung has pre-installed a few extra fonts besides the default)

Not all manufacturers make this setting available to users. In this case, one has to root their device and add an application that can install new fonts in `/system/fonts` directory.

There are a few ways to do this if you're not able to root the device as in your case:

> One non-root way to change fonts on Android is through custom launcher apps. Some custom launchers integrate the font-changing function, while most others will need you to install themes.

One such launcher capable of doing this is GO Launcher (Others include Line Launcher etc)

> To change font styles in GO Launcher, do the following:
>
> 1. Copy your `.ttf` font files to the phone.
> 2. Open GO Launcher.
> 3. Find the Tools app and open it.
> 4. Tap on the Preferences icon.
> 5. Scroll down to Personalization and select it.
> 6. Tap on Font .
> 7. Tap Select Font and tap on the font that you want to use.

Acknowledgements
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 5.1-lollipop, moto-x
---


# Question
Title: Alldaymall A88s tablet popping up junk from PornClub. I have it rooted. Now what?
On eBay I picked up one of those cheap Chinese 7" Quad-Core AllDayMall A88s tablets for $25, WiFi-only.

When it comes on all is fine unless you try to open the browser. Then things start popping up that are quite unsavory. So I did a factory reset but it seems all that junk is built in.

I sure hope the kid's version doesn't have this firmware. There are some things you simply cannot un-see. Perhaps the pink ones are different.

---

Going into settings, apps, I was able to identify and stop a lot of it. But as soon as I opened the browser it went nuts showing more.

I got the unit to tell me to sideload a file via the menu that comes up when you hold down-volume and power. Cool. Following somebody's advice I installed the Android SDK to do it. But then found out that all I needed was the ADB Platform Tools with adb.exe. (Don't need the SDK at all it turns out)

So I plugged it into my Win7 machine which installed an Alcatel driver for it. I could see it in device manager.

Typing

```
adb device -l

```

gave me a long number then the word sideload (instead of the name of the device)

Pushing on, I found out for positive certain that it needs Alldaymall-A88X-android 4.4.2-bsf.rar and thought I was on a roll.
All I had to do was download the file, unRAR it to get the ROM image, then refresh the ROM with the command it was asking for:

```
adb sideload Alldaymall-A888x-etc-etc

```

-- But no, the download link is to a dropbox account that says not found.

It can easily be set to receive a sideload. Driver installed and working. Daemon program installed and working on the PC to handle the work. Necessary file identified. Seemed like a slam dunk. But no. Not available. Dead End. `<sigh>` Lots of smoke but no fire.

---

Switching gears, I used the Windows version of one-click KingoRoot which said it succeeded. Went to the play store to get Kingo SuperUser and a good file explorer so I can seek and destroy.

During the process of setting up for Play Store it wants to log in, so I let it connect to WiFi. Big mistake. I never even got to the part of credentials with Google. Pop-ups on every screen and unresponsive touch panel. OK, reboot.

I installed a mouse via an adapter into the USB port but it worked the same as the screen. Just fine. Until it didn't.

Rebooted; Shut off WiFi then with the stock file explorer I went into the DCIM directory and under Camera there were a bunch of porn photos and a video, which I successfully deleted.

I am not sure how to find the built-in junkware so I can remove it.

---

**I made some headway but this has taken hours. So now I turn to Android Stack Exchange to get some expert opinions. You can see that I have done my homework before asking for help.**

`Last thing to do tonight is to uninstall the SDK.`

**The question is in the title: Now what?**

# Answer
After rooting it and getting most of the software stopped it settled down a lot.

Google browser came up without incident.

A couple of coupons came on screen which closed when I clicked on the little x in the corner.

But then, as soon as I tried to get logged into Play Store it froze up and put a white low-res band across the bottom that said EXIT on the left, with a large low-res X on the right. At first I just waited then tried again, but no mouse action would make it do anything.

When I hit the X on the bottom banner, it rebooted and restarted all the bloatware again...

After several rounds of this I tore it apart and removed the Lithium battery so I could just throw it in the trash.

---

Then, having learned about KingoRoot, I downloaded it into my good RCA Viking Pro, and rooted it successfully.

Downloaded the SuperUser browser which is nice, dual pane.

Then as I browsed around I wanted to see system text files so I downloaded QuickEdit for that. It works well.

Then I downloaded the Qute SU Console and it would handle simple commands like `pwd` and `ls` and such. It even included a bash editor which allowed simple scripts to work. There was no sudo command so I couldn't change most of the system from read-only to writeable. Maybe that is just the nature of ROM.

Manipulating things on the sd card is easy, of course.

Downloaded a VIM program which worked.

So this hasn't been a total waste. It was a learning experience.

Meanwhile, the answer to "what now?" has turned out to be to use Google and learn all I can - and throw the darn thing away. It is absolutely worthless. I suppose I got $25 worth of learning out of the experience so it isn't a total loss. Chin up and all that.

`Now I need to figure out how to dispose of the 2200ma Lithium battery. I live out in the desert and am tempted to start a campfire and use it for fireworks, but perhaps the recycling center is better for the environment.`

Thank you for the comments along the way.

Cheers!
> 2 votes

---
Tags: rom, malware
---


# Question
Title: Phone hot and battery drain when walking or driving
I've noticed a very strange behavior on my phone. Every time I move out of my house walking or in the car it starts to get hot and drain battery. Google play services become on top of consumption.

I have location on saving mode, location sharing disabled and location history disabled as well. Consumption when quiet is awesome (1% per 2 hours)

Any tip? Not going out isn't an option haha

# Answer
> 0 votes
I fixed it. It seems that Macrodroid was causing the battery drain. I had some rules related to be connected/disconnected to the wifi of my house. Not sure why but sometimes, when out of my house, Google Play Services started to drain battery crazily. As I knew Macrodroid had also "location" based rules, I decided to remove it and since that I haven't had this battery drain again.

# Answer
> 1 votes
I actually use High location accuracy mode, but also keep all background location using app disabled via greenify. I think the real problem is that your device apps checks location and use other sensors too much. For e.g. Maps, Fitness apps and such other apps might be responsible. Download greenify and try it. It should show which app run in background and for what purpose.

# Answer
> 0 votes
as the above answerer pointed out, an app that will hibernate other apps when screen is closed like Greenify will help prevent unnecessary background services running. but if I'm not mistaken Google services cannot be controlled with Greenify and hibernated . what you can also do it turn off mobile bandwidth usage in the background. this is a setting available on Android 6. Plus or it may even be before that I'm not sure. it is under mobile data traffic \>\> restrict background data. you can restrict at phone level which did not work well for me because my phone would go to sleep for a long time and I found it hard to wake it up or you can disable at app level .This works best for me. another option to try out is under developer options limit background process limit to nothing which means there is no background process or you can restricted to only one or two background processes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, battery, geolocation
---


title: The device is temporarily restricted

text:
# Question
Title: The device is temporarily restricted
I try to install an app from Android Studio on Xiaomi Mi Max via USB.

The debug mode is on, but when I try to switch the 'Install over USB' enabled, I get 'The device is temporarily restricted' message.

Core version is 3.10.84, Android version is 7.0, MIUI version is 8 Global 7.7.20.

# Answer
Finally, I got a workaround - the Wi-Fi has to be turned off and then the installation over USB works as expected.
> 9 votes

---
Tags: usb-debugging, xiaomi
---


# Question
Title: Here is display mirroring by usb cable with the S7, but the S7 does not supports MHL and DisplayLink is also not used. So how does this work?
In the Youtube-Video Samsung Galaxy S7 Android 6.0 phone Mirror Link for Joying Android 5.1 lollipop 1024\*600 car stereo he shows how to connect his Samsung S7 just by a USB-cable with an external monitor (in this case in a car system).

But how is this possible, as I read the S7 does not supports MHL, and the other option is DisplayLink? But in the video this is not mentioned, he does not installs the DisplayLink app which requires this, instead some "USB MOB driver".

So how is this realised, and is this also possible with other displays?

Remark: This question is closely related to this recent one from me.

# Answer
> 1 votes
There is no driver in this video. MOB stands for mobile. It is using screen mirroring through debugger. Both systems are full Android machines, it's not just a display. MHL is to connect just a display.

---
Tags: samsung, usb, usb-on-the-go, external-display
---


title: Downgrade Android 4.2 to 4.1

text:
# Question
Title: Downgrade Android 4.2 to 4.1
I have an Asus K013, an old tablet running android 4.2. As i have no use for it now, i want to downgrade it to android 4.1 as Wiimote compatibility is broken in 4.2+. However, I don't think it runs stock android (though I'm not sure) so I'm not sure how I would downgrade.

# Answer
K013 (otherwise known as MeMO Pad 7 or ME176C) comes with Android 4.4 minimum, as shown on PhoneArena and supplied by the HelpDesk of ASUS themselves. Therefore, there's no lower version of official OS you could downgrade to. Since it's an Intel-based device, you won't be able to find custom ROMs for it either. Not to mention that there are only a handful of examples where custom ROMs can have a lower Android version than the lowest provided by stock ROMs.

**TL;DR:** No you can't.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: 4.1-jelly-bean, 4.2-jelly-bean, downgrade
---


# Question
Title: twrp crashes while trying to backup files
Can someone help me with a crashing TWRP backup. I am using twrp 2.8.6.0

I have installed TWRP recovery for Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos gt-I9082, but it keeps failing and rebooting to the phone in the middle of 22% of the backup.

I am running Jellybean 4.2.2 Stock Samsung Android dist.

Has anyone ever faced this problem ?

Can anyone help ?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Somewhere you have a lot of files. Look at the process of creating a backup and pay attention to which folder the process lasts the longest. For me this folder was SuperSU logs folder in which there were thousands of files. When I deleted them my problem was solved (twrp 2.8.7.0).

---
Tags: backup, twrp, nandroid
---


# Question
Title: Continually scanning for network drains battery, but I've got network?
My Google Pixel's battery has been draining rapidly the last few days. When I look at the battery usage chart, it shows almost-entirely red for "Mobile Network Signal".

That makes sense: scanning for mobile networks uses a lot of power.

When I open the lock screen, it says "No service". When I pull down the notification icon panel, it shows "No service".

If I open the About / Status / SIM Status page, it shows "Network: Unknown", "Signal Strength: 0", "Network Type: 4G", "Service Status: Out of Service".

**Except I've got signal**. I've received a couple of calls, I've got 4G connectivity, I can upload photos and check in on Facebook. The phone shows full (or almost full) signal in the status bar.

The only thing I can think of is that I'm roaming from the UK to Australia, and my network provider (or the local provider) has screwed something up. Hopefully it'll sort itself out when I return home.

The problem I have right now is that I'm going to be here for another week or so, and the battery life of my phone is hosed.

I've restarted the phone; I've turned on/off Aeroplane Mode; the phone's been turned off and left for a while. Nothing seems to help.

What else can I do?

*(Google Pixel; Android 7.2.1)*

# Answer
Setting the "Preferred network type" (under Settings / Wireless & Networks / Mobile Networks) to "3G" (instead of "4G (recommended)") causes the phone to report a valid network connection and seems to solve the battery issue.

In Android 9, this setting is under Settings / Network & Internet / Mobile Network / Advanced.

Remember to change it back once you're home.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: battery-life, roaming, google-pixel
---


# Question
Title: There is a list of running apps displaying on my tecno 7cs always
There is a list of running apps displaying on the right hand side of my Tecno 7Cs. It begun when I accidentally tapped something (I can't remember) after I connected it to a USB. How can I get rid of it?

# Answer
> 2 votes
You have made your 'Show CPU Usage' enabled in debugger mode,

Go to settings-----\> (Scroll Down) Developer Options-----\> (scroll to bottom) Show CPU Usage -----\> disable it.

---
Tags: tecno-n3
---


title: Upload and LAN issues in Nougat

text:
# Question
Title: Upload and LAN issues in Nougat
I recently switched phones to **Infinix Zero 4** running **Android N** and can't seem to get around the following issues:

1) My backup app (**Folder Sync Pro**) has not been able to complete a single backup since. The backup of small files (less than 200kb) completes while larger files fail with the error "`File transfer failed 'FULL_PATH_OF_FILE' - timeout`".

2) **Whatsapp** has not been able to complete it's nightly cloud backup. The best it has done is 61mb over a period of 10 hours.

3) I cannot access my computer via **ES File Explorer** over wifi. I've always been able to do this on previous phones.

My LAN is OK since I can upload files without issues via the computer. These symptoms suggest there is a problem with network handling either by the hardware, or Nougat.

Is there any hidden upload timeout setting on Android? Is there any setting that would interfere with smb connection?

# Answer
> 0 votes
I finally figured out the root problem...

I have **Mobiwol NoRoot Firewall** installed and it seems to misbehave in Android N. Some apps get blocked unexpectedly so large uploads cannot complete. Disabling it allowed by backups to resume and complete as expected.

---
Tags: backup, whatsapp-messenger, 7.0-nougat, lan
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to use external hard drives with USB OTG?
On some sources I have read that it is impossible to use external hard drives over USB OTG. Is it really impossible? Isn't there some kind of workaround? Update: Apparently ES file explorer can see the disk but can't open it. I heard there are such issues with NTFS hard drives on Android.

# Answer
Absolutely possible, I do this almost every day. You need to have an otg dongle (not just a cable) that permits adding an external power source. I use a dongle I bought on amazon for £12 and normal usb battery pack. Then I can load films onto my phone from a 2tb WD passport.

Without the additional power source you are not able to read the drive as your phone (or tablet) can't output enough current to properly operate the HDD.
> 6 votes

# Answer
I read in several places that using hard drives with USB OTG was possible with Samsung Galaxy phones because Samsung reads NTFS-formatted drives. (I have an A9 Pro.)

But while I could use flash drives and micro-SD cards up to 200GB, I could not get NTFS-formatted external hard drive to work, with or without powered hubs.

Until...I prepared a WD Passport 2T drive, yes 2 terabyte.

How did I do it? I reformatted using exFAT. That's it. Then no powered hub, no lag, no overheating. No problems at all.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: usb, usb-on-the-go
---


# Question
Title: How to remove the bootloader unlocked sign while restarting device
Ever since I unlocked my Nexus 6p to root the device, I started getting the boot-loader unlocked sign with a big flashing yellow icon telling me to go to some link to reset my device. It is quite annoying when this happens. Is there a way to remove this icon without re-locking the device?

Android: 7.1.1 Nougat (rooted w/ TWRP)

# Answer
> 1 votes
Someone found a way to get rid of this screen on a Nexus 5X by replacing the imgdata bitmap files. Not sure if there is a one for 6P.

XDA forum link here

---
Tags: root-access, nexus-6p
---


# Question
Title: Notification sound is too loud when listening to music with a headset
I'm using a Galaxy S6. When I'm listening to music with my headphones plugged in, notifications come through startlingly loud.

I checked my sound settings, and I have the volume for notifications very low. I verified the volume in `settings -> sounds and vibration -> volume`. If I have my music playing the test feedback volume is super high even at my low setting. But once the music is paused, the notification volume returns to its normal reasonable level.

**Why do my notifications use such a high volume to interrupt my music? Is there a setting I'm overlooking to prevent notification volume from being boosted while music is playing?** I'd prefer a built-in solution without external apps, but I'm willing to use reasonable add-ons to manage volume.

---

Note: I'm ok with the notification interrupting/dimming the music, but I don't want the volume of the notification to rupture my eardrums in an attempt to drown out the music.

# Answer
The side volume buttons on your device can bring up four volume options by clicking the arrow. Try adjusting the notification setting and maybe even the system setting if that doesn't work. Easy listening my brother.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: notifications, audio, 6.0-marshmallow
---


# Question
Title: Android on virtualbox can't move mouse pointer
I installed Android-x86 6.0-r3.iso in VirtualBox Manager 5.1.22\_Ubuntu (Ubuntu 17.04). Now if I want to touch anything via mouse pointer I have to move the pointer but I can't move the pointer without clicking left mouse button. But clicking left mouse button represents touch functionality. How can I move the pointer without touching (left click) "display"?

# Answer
> 3 votes
As it was mentioned in the comments above, there is reference for Android X86 – mouse support in Oracle VirtualBox linked in this answer. AFAIK I had not to install additional packages like `vbox-guest-utillities`. As you can see the following list is empty:

```
$ dpkg -l | grep virtualbox-guest
$ dpkg -l | grep vbox-guest

```

I only had to change the "Pointing Device" under Settings \> System \> Motherboard to "PS/2 Mouse".

---
Tags: android-x86, mouse, virtualbox
---


# Question
Title: Is there a way to forward online calls to cell network?
I am traveling abroad and roaming costs are extremely high. Therefore, I thought about the following. I would leave a smart phone at home, connected to my home wifi. Then I would call that phone via Skype, Hangouts, whatever online service and the phone would forward my call through the local mobile network. This way I could make local calls via web in my home country.

Is there a way to do this?

# Answer
Unless you have a particular reason for wanting to route through a secondary device, a more direct approach would be to investigate apps that are available to you that use wifi-calling. These can be used even in airplane mode (with wifi subsequently turned back on) and behave the same way whether you are in your home country or abroad - ie no roaming charges. These are often carrier specific (at least in my experience).
> 1 votes

---
Tags: calls
---


# Question
Title: How to rotate emulator screen (not device orientation)?
Some apps run in landscape orientation, but sometimes allow you to see some picture in higher resolution by displaying it as portrait-oriented full screen image. Those are mostly games that allow you to tap character's portrait in profile to see it - Soccer Spirits, Chain Chronicle and and pretty much any other game that features character art as one of its draws.

IRL you supposed to turn your device to look at image, but how can I do that on Genymotion or any other emulator? It does have button to change device's orientation - i.e. internal state on what device thinks about it and will automatically turn screen accordingly, but it obviously doesn't help with apps that have fixed orientation.

Is there any way to just rotate emulator window?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Nox version 5.0.0.0 added this feature. Quote from changelog:

> 4. Added Rotate button to change Nox screen display from vertical to horizontal or back with just one click.

---
Tags: android-emulator
---


# Question
Title: How to get Adoptable storage encryption key without root access after I "forget it"
My micro SD card (set as **adoptable storage**) was corrupted while I was using my phone (**Wiko Tommy with Android 6.0**) during a trip. Probably because of a writing error on the filesystem, I guess.

I tried to unplug the SD card and to plug it again several times, but it didn't change nothing.

I should have stopped there, and wait in order to repair the SD card filesystem a few days later. But my phone wouldn't let me take pictures with the SD card unplugged ("storage is full", even if the internal storage wasn't full). So I unplugged the SD card, and told my phone to **forget it**. That way, I could use the internal storage again and take pictures.

Back with a computer available and with a SD card reader, I made an image of my SD card using the `dd` command. I tried to analyse filesystem problems with Testdisk, recover files with Photorec... But I realized that the SD card is **encrypted** and that this is probably my major concern.

I found this method that would enable me to get the encryption key and to read the SD card. Unfortunately it requires **root access** to read the /data/misc/vold folder, and my phone is not rooted. I would happily do it but I couldn't find any path toward it (it's a Wiko Tommy).

So I'm stuck there. Do you think of a way to get the files on the SD card back?

* Find a way to root my phone?
* Reverse the "forget" action so that the phone would read again the SD card (when the corrupted filesystem is fixed)?
* Find a way to get the encryption key without root access, and then read from the image I have on the computer?
* Use another SD card as adoptable storage, replace its contents by the old one (when the corrupted filesystem is fixed)?

Thank you

# Answer
*Find a way to root my phone?* Not relevant... see below

*Reverse the "forget" action so that the phone would read again the SD card (when the corrupted filesystem is fixed)?* No, the forget action deletes the decryption token. It cannot be recovered by normal means.

*Find a way to get the encryption key without root access, and then read from the image I have on the computer?* No, the decryption token is in a directory that can only be read with root access, but it doesn't matter because the decryption token does not exist anymore.

*Use another SD card as adoptable storage, replace its contents by the old one (when the corrupted filesystem is fixed)?* There is a fix like this, it can be used in some situations like this or when moving to a larger card, the problem is that even if the corruption of the card is corrected, the data cannot be decrypted because the decryption token was erased when you "forgot" the card.

I am sorry to say, but your data on the card is now just random 0's and 1's, there is no way to decrypt the data without the decryption token (I call it a "token", it is the passphase/key or whatever you want to call it), the data will never be recoverable by any currently known method.

The root access is no longer relevant, if you didn't have it already... the reason is because to root the device requires the bootloader to be unlocked (in most cases) and doing so wipes all data on the phone, including the decryption token, which is why it is stated if you have root prior to this occurring there is a chance you can retrieve the token and decrypt the SD card.

The real problem is the token is gone because you did a "forget", if a new token is generated (by adopting a new card) it will be different than the old one. If you reinstall a "fixed" SD card with the same data, your phone will not know how to decrypt it and cannot read the data, it will most likely recommend that you format the card as either portable or adopted storage so it is usable.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, encryption, internal-sd, adoptable-storage
---


title: What is this symbol on this video

text:
# Question
Title: What is this symbol on this video
I recorded a video and cannot play it. It is close to 1GB in size and I used a huawei mate 9. Smaller sizes are fine.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Try downloading **VLC player** or **MX Player**. If the video doesn't show up on these apps as well, the file might be corrupt.

# Answer
> 0 votes
It may not playing because higher video **size** or **high** **resolution** of the video. Sometimes lesser **RAM** and **ROM** are unable to play **high resolution** videos(on **built** in media player). Try some other players available on store like **MX player** etc(**MX Player** would be a good option), or copy your video on **PC**, if its not even plays on **PC** then your file is **corrupt**.

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat
---


title: Google Image Search using Android

text:
# Question
Title: Google Image Search using Android
I have an image on my smartphone and I want to paste it into Google Image Search to see if I can get similar images.

I can do this by pasting the image using desktop but not using Android ...

Is there such a possibility?

# Answer
> 4 votes
Instructions performed on Firefox for Android on stock Android 6.0.1.

1. Switch to Desktop mode in your preferred browser (it changes the user-agent).
2. Open *https://images.google.com* and tap the camera icon next to the search bar on the page.
3. Tap Upload an image
4. From the bottom sheet pick **Documents**. (This option might not be available in some Android versions.)

<sub>(Click image to enlarge)</sub>
5. In the left pane, select Images or Internal Storage and select your image file. That's it.

# Answer
> 1 votes
There are several search apps available which may assist you here, for example Search By Image (using Google/Tineye/Yandex image reverse search engine). This app lets you pick an image from your gallery (or take a new one with your camera), perform some basic editing (crop/rotate), and then fires a corresponding search for similar images.

The list initially linked (disclaimer: link goes to my own site) gives you some alternatives.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Steps for reverse image search from a smartphone:

1. Click here to visit Ctrlq.org.
2. There you will find Reverse Image Search option (Google's official) and within there you will see the *Upload* button. (It will allow to choose from camera and gallery.) Click on it and select an image.

This will search and display to you related images on your mobile phone.

---
Tags: google-search
---


# Question
Title: samsung s4 not responding to factory reset
Good day

My samsung s4 just died and wount go on or charge I have tried the sound up and donw button with the power button with home screen button with no luck

Can any one PLEASE give me advice how to fix my phone

# Answer
> 0 votes
If your device's battery doesn't have any charge or power, you can not reset it.
Change your charger, or the battery, and try to see if your device is charging.

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


title: Where are WhatsApp call logs stored?

text:
# Question
Title: Where are WhatsApp call logs stored?
I know about the .db files and files that are used to store messages or so, but I need to know where are the call logs stored too. Thank you very much.

# Answer
All user installed application data are stored in `/data/data/package_name` and database(.db files) are stored in `/data/data/package_name/databases`. You need to manually find which db from `/data/data/package_name/databases` file is call logs file.
> 3 votes

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Tags: whatsapp-messenger, call-history
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title: Flashing .tar factory image with CWM

text:
# Question
Title: Flashing .tar factory image with CWM
In the hopes of getting Android 5.0 onto my Nexus 10, I visited Google's factory image download page for the latest image. I noticed however that the file I downloaded was a tar and not a zip. Will this work just the same using CWM to flash it, or do I need to do something special here?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Stock factory images are not supposed to be flashed in recovery. Instead, you should follow the instructions on the page you linked to. Open the tar file, it's probably just a compressed file, just like a zip.

But first, let me point you to some custom ROMs that ARE flashable in recovery:

Stock

Rastakat

Cyanogenmod 12 (unofficial)

However, those may all contain extra bugs, as they are made by 3rd party devs.

Now, if you want to install the actual factory images from Google:

First, make sure you have fastboot and adb. If you don't, install the Android SDK.

Extract the files to a folder on your computer, connect your device to a computer and type the commands into a command window (Start -\> Command Prompt or type in

```
cmd

```

The commands that you need are the one in green text, but for the sake of completeness:

```
adb reboot bootloader

```

If you haven't unlocked the bootloader yet:

```
fastboot oem unlock

```

The run the flash-all.bat script:

```
flash-all.bat

```

It should look something like this:

# Answer
> -1 votes
The boot loader is not the main problem, it is mainly the encoding of the rom you are using. Instead of tampering with the rom you are going to install, just download rom manager or download the Odin on your laptop. from the internet, download execute variable for your device or .tar if flashing from laptop and apply, DO NOT FLASH AS ROM. this will brick your device. I have tried this method and it has worked without no brick 200+ times. I AM **NOT** RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE CAUSED BY THIS METHOD; YOU ARE IN CONTROL OF YOUR ACTIONS.

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Tags: rom-flashing, clockworkmod-recovery, stock-android
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# Question
Title: Why is data usage very high in the Instagram app?
Just by opening your instagram app you will be faced with a high volume of internet usage

Why is data usage very high in the Instagram app?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Because on Instagram is a lot of pictures and videos and that uses quite a lot of data. I don't use Instagram a lot but it used about 7GB of data in less then a month (on wifi). However there is "cellular data use" in instagram settings and you have option to set it to use less data, however I don't know how efficient is that.

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Tags: applications
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# Question
Title: 100% CPU load, battery drain with no app minimized/running in the background
I have a Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 S625 global variant (4/64GB). A day or so ago, I noticed a quick battery drain (from 100% to 24% after a whole night idle and 2-3 hours of heavy use the next day) and from there, it was dropping a percent every 2nd-3rd minute. It never happened before as it's a 4000mAh battery and usually lasts around 2 days on normal use.

I'm new to the smartphone world and I was reading online about the usual causes of battery drain including background apps consuming it and overcharging issues damaging the battery. I got worried as last night it was indeed left plugged in for like 2-3 hours maybe after a full charge. So either the battery is damaged due to overcharging, or it's some software issue.

Now what I noticed is the CPU usage is maxed with no app running in the background. I don't know if CPU-Z's usage info is accurate, but it's 100% when the battery is like 15% or lower and 40-50% when the battery is 20% or above. Maybe there's some background process or maybe it's normal, I don't know. I'm pretty clueless at this point. Here's a screenshot of CPU-Z:

Really appreciate it if anyone helped me with this one. Thanks.

# Answer
The reason for battery drain is mostly app. Either because of the poor development skills of the developer or because the app is doing something it shouldn't. Well, if you overcharged it for 2 hours after the full charge, you don't have to worry. No battery is that bad to die like that. I mostly left my phone on the charger overnight and I don't have any problems, yet :).

Is the screenshot from CPU-Z taken just when it loaded or a few seconds later? Because in every phone, when it just loads, it shows high CPU usage.

However, you should see if there is any shady app like fancy keyboards or fancy galleries. Try deleting them and see what is happening or apps installed out of the Play Store.

You can use an app called Wakelock Detector to see what is causing the problem. You can find some help about it on XDA.
> 1 votes

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Tags: battery-life, xiaomi, cpu
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