# Question
Title: How to increase charging current on OSX computers when using USB 2.0 from 500mA to 2000mA?
Authenticated Apple devices can charge at up to 2100mA x 5V. Apple-non-fast-charging and non-Apple devices are relegated to much slower 500mA x 5V charging. Thus, while my OnePlus One phone itself supports a 5V charging current of up to 2000mA, it is not possible to charge at higher than 500mA.

Does a method exist to increase the available "Extra Operating Current (mA)" from 0 to the max value possible? I am interested in both OSX and Android related solutions.

Related but not helpful post here.

# Answer
**I can confirm that for my MacBook Pro, charge current is increased above 500mA when using a POWER ONLY cable.**

My understanding is that if the phone is connected via a POWER & DATA cable, the 'consumer' negotiates with the host for how much current is passed over the cable. When the negotiation asking for higher current is not successful, the available current is reduced to the standard (USB 2.0 defined) 500mA amount at 5V.

In the case of the POWER ONLY cable, no negotiation can take place and thus, the maximum usable current is provided by the host to the client or 'power consumer'.

*Some observations...*

* When running on battery power (±80% state of charge), my early 2015 13" MacBook Pro (2x USB 3.0 ports) was able to charge my OnePlus One (±60% state of charge) at a maximum current of about 1750mA.
* No change in charging current was observed when the laptop was connected to the mains or powered by the internal battery.
* No change in charging current was observed when switching from one USB port to the other.
* During the phone's charging process, keeping the screen ON resulted in an average charge current of about 700mA. When the screen was kept OFF, the average charge current increased to about 1750mA as previously mentioned.
* As the phone battery reached a higher state of charge, the charge current was gradually reduced. At 67% state of charge, the maximum current was 1650mA. Note that this is consistent with the general behavior of lithium ion batteries. The battery controller will reduce the charge current in order to reduce the stress the battery's chemistry experiences during repeated cycling.
* According to another answer, using a thunderbolt-powered USB hub in combination with a POWER & DATA cable seems to achieve higher charging currents as well. This, however, requires an additional dongle which is a solution I did not prefer.
* The following is taken from an answer to Why is charging from computer using USB slower than using an outlet?

> The reason your android device draws less power from your USB connection than from a wall adapter is because of the USB specification. This can be side-stepped by shorting the data wires in in the USB cable, which will switch the phone or tablet into wall mode where it can draw the full available current. The amount of current available will vary considerably from PC to PC.
>
> The reason the specification exists in the first place is that the voltage to the computer's USB ports is usually supplied via the motherboard by a single loop connection which services all of the USB ports at once. Being only a few microns thick, this circuit is not able to deliver the same current as a dedicated charging wire. It is highly improbable that you will 'burn out your motherboard' by trying to draw the full available current through this circuit (although it is theoretically possible if your computer was a total P.O.S. to begin with). What is more likely to happen is that you will exceed the manufacturer's design specification, thereby denying sufficient power to any other USB devices you have connected, and/or other internal circuits which can cause the PC to crash. This is the very same reason it is recommended you use powered USB hubs.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Andreas Spiess, the YouTuber with the Swiss accent, has a great explanation/demonstration of how QC chargers use USB data lines to tell a charger/host to change voltage thereby increasing or decreasing charge current, enabling balance between charging speed and battery health.

In USB-C as specified in version 1.3 this functionality migrated to a dedicated serial line. Apple, having often followed their own path, should now be falling into line with official specifications.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Sorry for that. You can't.

Apple has pretty much built a lot of standards on its own, and Apple devices communicate in their own way. So your Mac is happy to recognize an iPhone or iPad, but never an Android phone.

Maybe get a good charger for your OnePlus One?
> 0 votes

# Answer
IMHO theoretically it should be possible because usually power delivery via USB means that source and drain mutual agree on the maximum power consumption.

But what happens if drain (the phone) just ignores the agreement (or does not agree at all) and just consumes the power? AFAIK the OSX computer will deliver it, because usually the power is just available and I never heard of any computer that actually measures the power consumption on the USB port (if somebody has different info on that topic just correct me). You just have to make sure to use the correct USB port because otherwise you may damage the port if the phone tries to consume more power than the USB port physically can provide.

There you may want to try special USB cables (or an adapter) that only connect the power lines but not the data lines. Using such a cable the Android device may think that it is connected to a power plug instead of a computer and uses a higher charging rate. Depending on the phone charging type the USB data cables may need a certain resistor connected to ground or +5V - this is the way some phone identify special fast charger.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: charging, oneplus-one, macos
---


# Question
Title: Android 9, google accounts without using google account?
i need help, with google contacts.

The phone is using google contacts and dialer (Android 9). I want to import contacts TO PHONE, but google contacts app allows only import to gmail acc.

Is there some solution? I do not want to use google servicies for syncing and storing my contacts, calls and messages.

Thank you

# Answer
i have had this problem on some Xiaomi devices. even when added contacts offline (with MyPhoneExplorer) it switched automatically into google when device goes online. i bet it is the contacts app per design not allowing local contacts.

i ended up with 3rd party contacts app (like com.simplemobiletools.contacts)
> 0 votes

# Answer
Partialy solved. - no need 3. party apps For Xiaomi devices with google contacts, google dialer, google sms. In settings turned off several google servicies permisions to these apps. After some warnings and problem with opening contacts app. Finally it opened, without option to choose google account.

Now in app were 2 options device and mi account. When importing contacts with using google contacts, i choosed: Device. Now contacts appear to be saved in mi account

After removing mi account from phone contacts were imported into device succesfuly. \- again when logged in contacts were under mi account (so turn off sync)

Depends on device, some google servicies have to be turned back on beacuse of calling and sending messages - (could have different names)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications
---


# Question
Title: Hangouts, Google Voice, and "SMS is no longer supported" notification on a WiFi-only tablet
Although I have been a long-time user of Google Voice and Hangouts, I only recently got my first Android tablet (WiFi only, no cellular).

The way the first two interact with the tablet is puzzling and frustrating:

* As far as I can tell, Hangouts is the tool that Google wants us to use for Google Voice SMS messages.
* It seems that recently Google removed SMS support from Hangouts except for Google Voice SMS that is still supported, and provided a way to choose what app to use as the main SMS app.
* With Hangouts installed, everything seems to work, but I get constantly spammed by a Hangouts notification saying that SMS is no longer supported. I have found no way to silence this notification unless I disable all Hangouts notifications, which would make me miss other Hangouts IMs.
* In the attempt to silence the SMS is no longer supported spam notifications, I tried to install other SMS apps, but since my tablet is WiFi only, I am unable to install them.
* I only found one SMS app that would install without the cellular hardware (I think called Messenger) and it spammed me with so many advertising notifications that I had to uninstall it, the cure was worse than the illness.

How to silence the Hangouts' "SMS is no longer supported" notification? Otherwise, how to install another SMS app on a WiFi-only tablet that stays nice and silent (which is ideal as I probably will never use it, I would only install it to silence the Hangouts notification)?

# Answer
I had the same problem and I also wanted to avoid installing an extra app just to get rid of a notification.

The only thing I could think of is Facebook Messenger which I already use. After I downloaded it, the notification disappeared and Messenger was now the default app for SMS.

In case the notification doesn't disappear automatically, go to Settings -\> Apps -\> (Gear Icon top right) -\> Default Apps and you should see 'SMS App'. Just tap on it and choose Messenger (or any other app you want to try). My tablet has Android 6.0.1, so instructions may differ on other versions.

P.S. Firstly, I tried to revoke any SMS permissions to Hangouts so I can clear it from the default app for SMS, but it didn't work.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Unfortunately, this is even one of the sticky notifications which can't be just swiped out of the notification area.

If you, however, swipe it to the right and keep your finger pressed, a gear symbol will appear on the left. When you click this, you can permanently disable this notification. Did the trick for me, at least.
> -2 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, notifications, sms, google-hangouts, google-voice
---


title: Disable Contacts sync does not work

text:
# Question
Title: Disable Contacts sync does not work
I have found that with my Pixel 4XL (or maybe it's Android 10) **disabling Contacts syncing NO LONGER WORKS!** With my older Pixel 2 it did work, and I would manually trigger a Contacts or Calendar sync when I wanted to. I have checked and double-checked all the settings (see below)... but it still syncs without me triggering a sync.

The settings I make are as follows ... Via Settings -\> Accounts At the bottom of the main accounts page, there is a toggle named "**Automatically sync data**" with the text "Let apps sync data automatically". If this "Automatically sync data" toggle is **ON** and you then select your GMail account, and press the "**Account sync**" button, you are able to edit the(Google) apps you don't want to auto-sync (i.e. turn sync OFF). I do this (I switch all Google apps to off), and return to my GMail account page. I then see "**Sync OFF for all items**" in grey text under the "Account Sync" button (my upper case for OFF above). I then go back up to a higher level .. that is back to the main accounts page. The toggle "Automatically sync data" is still ON of course, and the grey text under it says "**Let apps sync data automatically**". I don't want this to happen, so I now set this "**Automatically sync data**" toggle to **OFF**. Here's the problem: after making this last change (i.e. "Automatically sync data" toggle to OFF), when I select my GMail account again, I now see "**Sync ON for all items**" in grey text under the "Account sync" button(my upper case for ON above)!! This is completely contradictory! How can it be that after first disabling auto-sync on all the Google apps and then switching off "Automatically sync data" Google signals "Sync on for all items" ?!?

And here's the bigger problem: the above message is correct. Because if I leave the settings as above the Contacts does indeed continue periodically auto-syncing. (I know this because if I delete my contacts in the Google Contacts app in the cloud after a short period all the contacts on my phone disappear too!).

I have tried removing my Google account and adding it again, but without success. It seems to me that this is either (a) a bug in the "Automatically sync data" implementation .. OR .. (b) a deliberate implementation of Google to fool people that their data is NOT being synced. I have also tried all sorts of variations and checked Google account settings in the cloud too (not much there!), all to no avail. It seems I cannot now disable auto-syncing of Contacts ... If somebody thinks I'm missing something help would be appreciated?

# Answer
I've had the same issue and am happy that I'm not the only one.

Under **Settings \> Google \> Account Services \> Contacts sync** you will find two Options - **Automatically sync Google contacts** and **Back up & sync device contacts** \- to disable. I will test this the next few days and report back if it didn't do the trick. I guess they have moved this option and replaced it with a wired design.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: contacts, sync, google-pixel, android-10, xprivacy
---


# Question
Title: How does the Google Play signing certificate looks like
Since some time it is possible to opt in for Application to be signed with Google maintained key. How does the certificate looks like? Is it a self signed one like before, or maybe it is issued from some Google one?

# Answer
> 1 votes
As far as I know the applications signed by Google is simple that you upload your private key + certificate and Google then performs the signing instead of the app developer. The certificate and the created signature is identical to the one created by a developer.

I would assume that Google introduced this feature because a lot of developers loos their app signing keys and are then unable to publish updates for an existing app.

# Answer
> 1 votes
It is RSA 4096 self signed certificate:

```
Certificate:
    Data:
        Version: 3 (0x2)
        Serial Number:
            ...
        Signature Algorithm: sha256WithRSAEncryption
        Issuer: C = US, ST = California, L = Mountain View, O = Google Inc., OU = Android, CN = Android
        Validity
            Not Before: ... 2020 GMT
            Not After : ... 2050 GMT
        Subject: C = US, ST = California, L = Mountain View, O = Google Inc., OU = Android, CN = Android
        Subject Public Key Info:
            Public Key Algorithm: rsaEncryption
                RSA Public-Key: (4096 bit)

```

---
Tags: applications, google-play-store
---


title: Samsung: Backing up messages fails

text:
# Question
Title: Samsung: Backing up messages fails
I am trying to back up a Samsung S5 mini (SM-G800F, running Android 5.1.1) using either Samsung Kies or SmartSwitch. With either program, the backup stalls for a very long time when it gets to backing up messages. When it finally recovers, it announces that backing up messages has failed (the rest of the items are fine).

> The following categories have failed to back up due to an error.
>
> Messages — Device not responding.

Has anyone else encountered this problem? What could be the root cause? Is there anything I can do on the phone itself to correct this, and allow messages to get backed up as well?

In the past backup has worked correctly with the same phone.

# Answer
I had the same problem for month, I updated to the last version of smart switch today and have reboot my s8 yesterday (I have almost 25% of free space on the phone) I gave a new chance to the backup with smart switch today and, after being stucked for almost 2 hours on "backing up message" at 18%, it finally went to the next step of the backup! So my advice is : patience (and use an usb 3 port!)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung, backup, samsung-kies, samsung-galaxy-s-5-mini
---


# Question
Title: Flashlight comes on for no apparent reason
I have a Samsung A5 running Android 8. Every so often when I pull it out of my pocket the flashlight is on. The screen will be locked due to timeout and there is no indication that I somehow pocket dialled it. This doesn't happen often but it is totally wierd.

I suspect that this may be caused by inadvertent use of some physical shortcut or hack that turns the flashlight on, but I have searched carefully and have not found it.

Can anyone offer some ideas?

# Answer
This should fix you up 8 comments as of now. https://www.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/6qmx3f/flashlight\_turns\_on\_randomly/ its probably flashlight screen lock. In which if there isnt an option normally for your phone then you might have to find a shorcut code like the dialer codes, or look up if there is a mod for the problem of not having the option
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung, 8.0-oreo, flashlight
---


# Question
Title: SQLite database operation from Android terminal
I want to do SQLite command like `sqlite3 myDb.db`, or do other SQLite command from Android shell, like Terminal Emulator or something else.

I have tried googling for these, but no luck. Is it possible to do that? If it is, how to do it?

I'm using locally-made Android phone in my country, based on Jelly Bean OS.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Yes, it's possible if you have `sqlite3` binary for Android installed. Most of Android devices don't have this binary. If your device doesn't have it, then you need to get the proper binary and install it (refer to Where can I obtain an SQLite 3 command line binary for Android?). Note that you **need root access** to do this.

After getting the `sqlite3` binary, place it inside `system/bin/` (or `system/xbin/`). After this, you just need to test if the terminal can access the binary by calling `sqlite3` from there. If it shows `sqlite>` prompt and SQLite version, then you're done.

For usage hints, on `sqlite3`, write `.help`.

```
sqlite> .help

```

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can use Termux for installing `sqlite`.

Type

```
$ pkg I sqlite

```

and there you go on Android.

---
Tags: shell, terminal, sqlite
---


# Question
Title: Can I use an Android One device without a Google account?
I wish to buy an Android One device and install only apps from `F-Droid`. I don't own a Google account and don't wish to register. I don't wish to install LineageOS or other alternative firmware.

Is it possible to use Android One device without a Google account?

What are the restrictions (without Google account) except that i can't use Google cloud services and Play Store? For both there are alternatives.

# Answer
You need to register with Google

* I had bought two Android MiA1 one phones , one for me and one for my son, a couple of years ago. I registered with Google account on my phone and got security updates and Android version update. On my son's phone , there were no updates of any kind till he came a few days later and activated Google sign in. It was connected to data (his spare SIM)
* Android One wiki says the device needs to have Google Services intact. It doesn't mention Play Store explicitly but logically if the core service is missing, it will not work.
* Robert, in comments pointed out another important point- of security updates being pushed through Play Store, and likely these won't be available without registering.
* USP of Android one is low cost devices with timely updates, If you can't get updates and you don't want to install a custom ROM, your plan isn't going to help
> 3 votes

---
Tags: google-account, privacy, android-one
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to visit a localhost page of my pc on Android without wifi route?
I don't have a wifi router. I want to visit xampp localhost from my mobile. I have two android phone. Is it possible with any app to use a phone like wifi router and another phone to visit the localhost pages?

# Answer
You do have a hotspot available!

You can **configure your own phone as WiFi hotspot**, and connect to it from the PC!
> -1 votes

---
Tags: wifi-hotspot
---


# Question
Title: Android Verified Boot and generation of vbmeta image
I'm in the process of unofficial device bring up, and I'm stuck unable to progress due to Android Verified Boot.

As per specification, Android Verified Boot can be disabled with the `--disable-verity` and `--disable-verification` flags. The device I'm working with does not conform to specifications and hence is unable to disable Android Verified Boot. One of the solutions is to build a vbmeta image myself which will then be used to verify my custom generated boot image.

The question at hand is how to properly generate such an image. The documentation on the topic is exceedingly scarce and looking up similar community-made files with a hex editor yields little in terms of information for me. As mentioned here, I should be able to generate one with the avbtool, which I did, very likely wrongly, as it still refuses to even flash it via fastboot. The only way I've found of allowing such a thing is to flash a blank vbmeta image, which in terms fails to verify the kernel and fails.

# Answer
> 6 votes
In this page there is a section called 'Disabling verified boot' that mentions a commands to create an empty vbmeta.img that can be used to disable verified boot : https://wiki.postmarketos.org/wiki/Android\_Verified\_Boot\_(AVB)

That command is,

```
$ avbtool make_vbmeta_image --flags 2 --padding_size 4096 --output vbmeta_disabled.img

```

To ensure this, I searched for 'make\_vbmeta\_image' in AOSP repositories and found a similar command in here.

I have an Android Q AOSP source tree with me. So I used avbtool from it to create an empty vbmeta image by issuing following commands.

```
$ cd <aosp_root_dir>
$ ./external/avb/avbtool make_vbmeta_image --flag 2 --padding_size 4096 --output ./vbmeta_disabled.img
$ ls -l ./vbmeta_disabled.img

```

As instructed here, to flash vbmeta image you can first boot your device to fastboot mode, unlock device's bootloader, and use following command.

```
$ fastboot --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta_disabled.img

```

---
Tags: security, custom-roms, bootloader
---


# Question
Title: What is 0x10DB21 error code in Kingoroot?
I'm currently using android 6.0 And i wanted to root it I downloaded kingoroot apk I installed it clicked one click root and it stopped at 90% and then said failed to root error 0x10db21 what do i do?

# Answer
> 1 votes
The answer is simple:

# Kingoroot does not work for Android 6

The vulnerability it uses for gaining root as been fixed in Android 6 and newer. Hence rooting will not work on those devices!

Cite from the site root-apk.kingoapp.com

> It perfectly covers Android 1.5 to 5.0 mainstream models from different manufacturers including Samsung, Google, HTC, Sony and else.

Hence before installing any third party app you should read the documentation before installing and running it.

---
Tags: rooting
---


# Question
Title: Does Samsung process its single take images in China?
I was in my backyard, taking pictures of the bees on the trees. I got inside and noticed that one of the single take pictures I'd taken on my s10 T-Mobile version had a location tag from Yushu, Qinghai, China. This wasn't an original single take picture, but a screenshot taken from a video. All other files were located in the US. There are some other files that I want to include but are too big, so here's a google drive link to the rest of them.

So, that brings me to the question of whether Samsung sends photos/videos taken on Samsung devices to be processed in China? Is it even possible? Thanks!

# Answer
> 0 votes
Not sure how to resolve this question, thanks to @Robert and @IrfanLatif in the comments. Did some digging and this is probably just a bug. If it happens again, well, I'll see. Additional thought: Onedrive is connected to the photos app so maybe something with that.

---
Tags: samsung, geotagging
---


# Question
Title: Cannot set default app for some files (PDF, TXT...) select "always" has not effect, Complete action using keeps popping up
Android 10 on Samsung s10e.

Every-time I open a PDF or TXT file I am prompted to select which app I want to open the file with. It does not matter which app I select, the setting is never remembered, I am prompted with the same question next time I try to open the file, despite clicking "always".

Already cleared the default for all apps in Settings, problem is still there.

edit : it turns out the problem also happen for other file types like .txt or even .png files, but not for .docx My guess is problem arises only when there is more than one app capable of handling the file type.

# Answer
Among the possible apps listed for both .pdf and .txt there was Mylio (a photo manager app). Thinking this might be the root of the issue I uninstalled it and could then open .pdf or.png files straight away (after selecting "Always" once more)...

As for .txt file it still prompts me "complete action with" if I try to open it with Firefox or Amaze text editor (and select Always afterwards). but if I chose Chrome it does not prompt me anymore for some reason...

I don't know if this should be the accepted answer because this is more like a workaround as it does not work with all apps. plus I don't want to uninstall Mylio as I use it regularly.

edit : turns out that if I disable Chrome (could not uninstall it) it then works for .txt file (meaning I can chose any app, select always and it will not ask me "complete action with" again)
> 1 votes

---
Tags: default-applications, pdf, android-10, samsung-galaxy-s-10
---


title: I am confused about customizing ROMs

text:
# Question
Title: I am confused about customizing ROMs
I'm trying to upgrade my Tivax MiTraveler tablet to run the latest version of Android. Unfortunately, the updater claims there are no updates available. Looking at this log file I obtained from backing up the device, it appears to be a generic hardware configuration:

```
ro.build.version.sdk=17
ro.build.version.codename=REL
ro.build.version.release=4.2.2
ro.build.user=inet_wupangpang
ro.build.host=supperFAE
ro.product.model=97D16W
ro.product.brand=softwinners
ro.product.name=wing_ibt
ro.product.device=wing-ibt
ro.product.board=wing
ro.product.cpu.abi=armeabi-v7a
ro.product.cpu.abi2=armeabi
ro.product.manufacturer=AWT
ro.product.locale.language=en
ro.product.locale.region=US
ro.board.platform=exDroid
ro.build.product=wing-ibt
ro.build.description=wing_ibt-eng 4.2.2 JDQ39 20130620 test-keys
ro.build.fingerprint=softwinners/wing_ibt/wing-ibt:4.2.2/JDQ39/20130620:eng/test-keys
ro.build.characteristics=tablet
ro.com.android.dateformat=MM-dd-yyyy
ro.build.display.id=A20_K9701_K9701L3B_1305282.20130620
persist.sys.timezone=Asia/Shanghai
ro.inet.LauncherTransparent=false
ro.product.firmware=1.3_20130614
net.bt.name=Android
net.change=net.bt.name

```

This appears to be a plain vanilla build configuration, but I am confused about how to go about updating the system. I couldn't find a specific firmware for my device, but I found several devices that use the exact same hardware and firmware. Unfortunately, none of them support a higher version of Android.

I noticed the firmware has two layers: linux and Android. The Android layer runs on top of Linux and appears to be a set of Java applications. Is it possible to replace just the Android components and reflash firmware? If it Android uses a JVM, it should work, No? If it is compiled Java, it should work provided you use the same Allwinners target, No?

# Answer
> 0 votes
this log from the system process is the properties of your device and you can change the version in the file build.prop in the /system directory loop the pics :

---
Tags: updates, 4.2-jelly-bean
---


title: No Gallery app on Lenovo K6 Power

text:
# Question
Title: No Gallery app on Lenovo K6 Power
I bought a Lenovo K6 Power mobile, but it's not showing the gallery in the menu and storage.

I have done all the basic steps, but I don't see the Gallery app.

What can I do to fix this issue?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Recent models of Lenovo K-series are running on PURE UI, which is similar to/the same as stock Android experience, thus Lenovo did not preinstall their own Lenovo Gallery app. Some models have Google Photos preinstalled as their stock gallery app instead. Otherwise, users have to install any compatible 3rd-party Gallery app on their own.

References from Lenovo Forums:

# Answer
> 0 votes
Flash your device with its **stock ROM (firmware)** and any problems that might have caused the *damage* can be fixed.. if not, they might not have provided any gallery for your ROM/device

---
Tags: gallery, lenovo
---


# Question
Title: disabling data roaming on Nokia 6.1 (Android 10), service provider o2 (UK)
I'm in Japan with my Nokia 6.1, running Android 10. My service provider is o2 (in the UK).

I've done everything I can find to disable data while here:

* Settings / Network & Internet / Mobile network / Mobile data: OFF
* Settings / Network & Internet / Mobile network / Roaming: OFF
* sent o2 a "NOTRAVEL" SMS on their 23336 number

I can no longer find my "Data roaming" option, but believe I have also turned it off.

Nevertheless, when my wi-fi fails, my phone has been switching to data over 4G, incurring hundreds of pounds of charges. I have therefore selected "2G" for "Preferred network type". o2 are not helpful.

Is there a simpler way of killing data over the phone networks? If it's "Data roaming", where should that option be?

# Answer
> 2 votes
Selecting 2G as preferred network is the wrong decision as AFAIK Japan has no 2G network anymore (has been switched off some years ago). The minimum is 3G.

Because of VoLTE the definition of "data roaming" is become a bit complicated. If your device connects to LTE and has VoLTE enabled it starts a data connection. A lot of providers fail to identify those connections as "Voice" and charge them as data roaming. Therefore VoLTE connection start-up are charged as data roaming.

Hence it is very important not only to disable data roaming but also disable VoLTE feature!

I also run into this problem on two-day trip abroad where my provider wanted me to charge data roaming for a few bytes every time when I switched on my phone or disabled Air-plane mode. Back from my trip I found a few mobile data roaming charges on my bill even with mobile data roaming disabled (phone has VoLTE capability). After complaining at my MNO they removed them from my bill by goodwill.

---
Tags: mobile-data, roaming
---


# Question
Title: What does grayed-slashed icon in Google Hangouts mean?
I tried to text a person in Hangouts whose profile icon appears like the image below.

There is some peculiar info related to this. When I tried to text that person, it showed 'Failed to send... Tap to retry'. I couldn't send any messages. I could see their last seen but with this thumbnail only.

Does it mean the person has deleted the Hangouts account or signed out?

# Answer
> 3 votes
What does the Grayed, slashed-out profile picture mean on hangouts? from Google Hangouts help says, it could be any of these:

> * Signed out of hangouts or is inactive
> * Account was deleted or suspended.
> * It might also mean the photo was deleted.

---
Tags: google-chat
---


# Question
Title: Lengthy sleep command not working in script
I've written a `su.d` script to periodically (every 4 hours) back up data from an app using a looped `sleep` command:

```
#!/system/bin/sh

(
  # Wait for boot to complete
  until [ "$(getprop sys.boot_completed)" ]
  do
    sleep 300
  done

  while true
  do
    (
      new_dir="/storage/emulated/0/temp/AppData/$(date '+%Y%m%d-%H%M')"
      mkdir -p $new_dir
      cp /data/data/com.example.app/files/*.json $new_dir

      echo "$(date '+%F %T') | app data backup OK!" >> /storage/emulated/0/su.d.log
    ) &

    sleep 14400 # 4 hours
  done
) &

```

In practice, the script backs up the data only after boot—not every 4 hours.

However, if I enter a remote shell via `adb` and leave it alone, then the data does get backed up every 4 hours.

How can I force the periodic backup without being permanently connected to a PC? (And why isn't it working as expected?)

---

### EDITS

1. @Irfan Latif's comment gave me the idea of trying a different interpreter (busybox ash - `#!/system/xbin/sh`), but the result was the same. I'll try @mirabilos's daemonise suggestion (`sh -T- -c '...'`) next.
2. Tried @mirabilos's daemonise suggestion with the same result: backs up data only after boot.
3. Tried `nohup`:

```
nohup /system/bin/sh -T- -c '...' >/dev/null 2>&1 &

```

Same result.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Having no success with `sleep`, I ended up going the `crond` route, as suggested by @Irfan Latif:

* ### `/system/su.d/99crond (-rwx------ root root)`

```
#!/system/bin/sh

# File: 99crond
# Desc: Start cron daemon

(
  # Wait for boot to complete
  until [ "$(getprop sys.boot_completed)" ]
  do
    sleep 2
  done

  # Symlink default cron dir to /data/local/crontabs
  mount -o remount,rw /
  mkdir -p /var/spool/cron
  ln -s /data/local/crontabs /var/spool/cron/crontabs
  mount -o remount,ro /

  crond -b

  echo "$(date '+%F %T') | su.d/99crond OK!" >> /storage/emulated/0/su.d.log
) &

```
* ### `/data/local/crontabs/root (-rw------- root root)`

```
# /data/local/crontabs/root: Android root user crontab

SHELL=/system/bin/sh
PATH=/sbin:/system/bin:/system/xbin:/data/local/bin

#.--------------------------- Minute (M) (0--59)
#|    .---------------------- Hour (H) (0--23, 0 = midnight)
#|    |     .---------------- Day of Month (DoM) (1--31)
#|    |     |     .---------- Month (MON) (1--12) OR jan,feb,mar, ...
#|    |     |     |     .---- Day of Week (DoW) (0--6, Sunday = 0 or 7) OR sun,mon,tue, ...
#|    |     |     |     |
#M    H     DoM   MON   DoW   COMMAND
0     */4   *     *     *     /data/local/bin/cron_backup.sh
#

```

**FURTHER READING**
* ### `/data/local/bin/cron_backup.sh (-rwxr-xr-x root shell)`

```
#!/system/bin/sh

# File: cron_backup.sh
# Desc: Back up app data (periodically with crond)

new_dir="/storage/emulated/0/temp/AppData/$(date '+%Y%m%d-%H%M')"
mkdir -p "$new_dir"
cp /data/data/com.example.app/files/*.json "$new_dir"

echo "$(date '+%F %T') | cron_backup.sh OK!" >> /storage/emulated/0/crond.log

```

---

As pointed out by @Ramast here, these three files alone were not quite sufficient to get `crond` working: `/system/etc/passwd` is also required for user *root* to be recognised, so...

```
mount -o remount,rw /system
echo "root:x:0:0:root:/data:/system/bin/sh" >> /system/etc/passwd
chmod 644 /system/etc/passwd
mount -o remount,ro /system

```

After all that is done the data gets backed up periodically as desired.

# Answer
> 3 votes
If it’s the terminal thing @IrfanLatif wrote, try this:

```
#!/system/bin/sh
# run a command block in the background, detached from all terminals
/system/bin/sh -T- -c '
    # Wait for boot to complete
    until [ "$(getprop sys.boot_completed)" ]; do
        sleep 300
    done

    while true; do
        (
            new_dir="/storage/emulated/0/temp/AppData/$(date '\''+%Y%m%d-%H%M'\'')"
            mkdir -p "$new_dir"
            cp /data/data/com.example.app/files/*.json "$new_dir"

            echo "$(date '\''+%F %T'\'') | app data backup OK!" >>/storage/emulated/0/su.d.log
        ) &

        sleep 14400 # 4 hours
    done
'

```

The `-T-` option tells the shell to `daemon()`ise, that is, replace stdin, stdout, stderr with `/dev/null` and double-fork the command into the background. Perhaps this helps.

I don’t have an off-hand idea why this would otherwise not work. Full disclosure: I’m the `mksh` developer.

# Answer
> 1 votes
My comment does not work too. I have understood, `sleep` does not work then screen is off.

You should perhaps keep the system awaked for `sleep` command to be working.

---
Tags: adb, 5.1-lollipop, sleep, init.d, mksh
---


# Question
Title: to identify these services after upg. to andr 10?
To all,

please tell me if this is relevant to the forum.

### the problem:

I want to identify these services that appear after the upgrade to Android 10, in `adjustments -> applications and notifications -> manager of permissions -> storage` and other permissions. Some data:

* model: Nokia 4,2
* this model has the Android One distribution.

I didn't find anything in web search for this one:

* QMMI

in the search there appear titles such as "hidden settings" or something related to Xiaomi. the others are, in total:

* com.android.carrierconfig
* com.qualcomm.qti.workloadclassifier
* face

### more observations:

* the election to uninstall or disable are not available for any these.
* until now, only user style titles appeared in permissions, such as `Chrome` or `Foo Service`, never something in the style of a kernel module `foo.bar.baz`

### questions / ideas:

* Is this how it should be in a valid update of Android from Google?
* how to uninstall / to investigate: maybe I can enter a linux terminal? is it possible to create a root user with password, but not to disqualify of Android updates? also, it would be from inside the device: I would not open a server for this purpose intentionally.

Thanks in advance,

Dan

# Answer
The following observation supports a conclusion that this no more than a quirk of the last system update:

According to this link to an Android package QMMI, it seems that this is created by HMD Global the company that produces Nokia.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: updates, security, permissions
---


# Question
Title: Change default folder for Chrome bookmarks
Every time I add a bookmark in Chrome, it saves it to "Mobile bookmarks". I now have to press "Edit" and change the folder to "Bookmarks bar". I'm sure that Chrome previously saved to the last folder that was saved to. Is there a way to default to Bookmarks bar?

# Answer
> 0 votes
It seems like Chrome now does this - not sure if something was fixed recently! Cannot Reproduce.

---
Tags: chrome-for-android
---


title: How to get started with Droid Explorer

text:
# Question
Title: How to get started with Droid Explorer
I've downloaded de.zip and unpacked it, although it came up with an error about something wrong with the header. Now I have a folder with lots of things, but I have no clue how to get this app started. It doesn't look like a Windows program. I have no experience installing something on other platforms. Which platform is it meant for? Can someone please send me a link with installation info for that platform?

Keen to get started investigating the contents of a backup.ab file. Many thanks!

# Answer
> 2 votes
I liked this program for a long time. Once installed, but over time it stopped working. The reason is the SDK update !!!!!!!!!

DroidExplorer.0.9.0.4 does not work with the new SDK at all.

But you can set the Android SDK path manually in Windows Registry. On Windows 10 64bit you have to edit:

```
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\DroidExplorer\InstallPath

```

Keep in mind that afterwards you should NEVER UPDATE SDK FROM THIS PROGRAM!

If you do as I use symbolic links in addition to critical files, then updating the main SDK will update the Droid Tools files.

But you can’t update sdk from the program anyway!

---
Tags: droid-explorer
---


# Question
Title: How to turn WiFi on with a non responsive screen?
So I own a Moto G4 plus

The touchscreen on this phone has stopped responding. Since I'm in midst of a lockdown for a long time. I can't buy a new phone or get this one repaired. I do want to keep using Whatsapp Web till then.

A couple days ago the wifi on my phone turned off for no reason and I can't use Whatsapp web anymore

How can I turn on the wifi again in this case?

# Answer
> 0 votes
You will need an OTG cable. It allows you to connect various devices to your phone. The way to control using the OTG cable via USB is to connect one end to the phone and the other to the keyboard. All keyboards may not work, just like not all smartphones support the OTG cable (all tablets do). Instead of a keyboard, you can use a regular computer mouse by connecting it with an OTG cable, via USB. You can even write text using the virtual keyboard. The cable itself is inexpensive. Of course, this is not a 100 percent solution, because it is unlikely that someone will carry a mouse with him, let alone a keyboard, but at home or at least to copy important data, this is a great way. Recommend. The main thing is that your phone supports it.

---
Tags: wi-fi, touchscreen, broken-screen
---


# Question
Title: Need to delete this file to be able to backup data on TWRP
My Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro is rooted with TWRP as recovery. Unfortunately, after a system update, I became unable to access my system. I was only able to access TWRP and the files through it.

While creating a backup with TWRP, I encounter the following error

```
I:Error adding file '/data/anr/3i6xjEcwwZbkn6mZ,+ccwD' to '/data/media/0/TWRP/BACKUPS/c51c11bd/2020-05-05--09-33-29/data.ext4.win000'
Error creating backup.
I:ERROR tarList for thread ID 0
Error creating backup.
I:InfoManager saving '/data/media/0/TWRP/BACKUPS/c51c11bd/2020-05-05--09-33-29/data.info'
createTarFork() process ended with ERROR: 255
Backup Failed. Cleaning Backup Folder.
I:Copying file /tmp/recovery.log to /data/media/0/TWRP/BACKUPS/c51c11bd/2020-05-05--09-33-29/recovery.log

```

I need to know where this file is. Without it, I can backup my data partition. I've tried OrangeFox and it tells me the same thing.

I've been looking through TWRP but was unable to find such file. In TWRP, I browsed the folder through the install button and it was empty, nothing was showing at all.

How can I find the location of the folder and delete the contents so I could proceed to backup my data?

# Answer
just mount /data and type `rm` followed by the file name in single quotes. TWRP has a build-in Terminal, but i recommend to do it from adb shell

```
adb shell rm '/data/anr/3i6xjEcwwZbkn6mZ,+ccwD'

```
> 0 votes

---
Tags: twrp, system, files
---


# Question
Title: How do I remove images from the Downloads folder that are visible from within certain apps, but not visible from any file manager?
**Background:** I used to use the Share with another app button on Google Chrome to send images from Google Chrome App to my Text Messaging App. It would go to my text message but not be seen in the Downloads folder.

Now, if I have a file stored in the Downloads folder that I want to attach to either a Text Message (via Messaging App) or an Email (via Gmail App), when I go to upload that file from the File Explorer within one of those Apps, all of the images that I have ever "Shared" in the method described are listed there, and can be clicked and uploaded as though they are stored in the system. However, when I use a File Management App, they are not there.

I simply want to remove the images from the Downloads folder, or from appearing as though they are in the Downloads folder to certain Apps (i.e., Messages and Gmail). Also, I'd like an appreciation of what is going on, but I think that would be clear upon a solution being presented.

I am not interested in rooting my phone.

**What Has Not Worked:**

• Clearing cache of Google, Google Chrome, and Messages Apps

• Deleting the Downloads folder in its entirety.

• Downloading multiple File Explorers and Hidden Image/File Apps to Search for the Locations of the Files

• Granting storage permissions to Google Chrome Apps

# Answer
That's because those images are still in the servers of those particular apps and not in your device. They will be removed eventually.

Edit: The problem has been solved by the OP himself. I did not quite understand the situation when I wrote this answer. Please refer to the comments bellow.
> -2 votes

---
Tags: file-management, google-apps, cache
---


# Question
Title: Access WiFi Beacons from Android Application
I was wondering if an android App can have access to the beacon data of the nearby WiFi access points (AP), while the phone is associated with a WiFi AP.

**Note**: I do not want to root the phone or use startscan because it is going to be removed in a future release. I skimmed through WiFi RTT API but it does not seem to provide any other beacon information than RSSI and BSSID.

Thanks for any hints or clues in advance!

# Answer
> 1 votes
I was also looking for this as well and I found this thesis submitted in 2015. They were able to get IEs using Android NDK. I still haven't tried it yet. Also if you have found some other solution could share it.

---
Tags: wi-fi
---


# Question
Title: Polish layout for physical USB keyboard in Oreo
Up until Android 8.0 / Oreo (haven't got chance to test this issue under 9.0 / Pie) there is no Polish layout for physical USB keyboard and writing Polish national letter (i.e. using Right Alt key) is not possible in Android with physical keyboard connected through USB and micro USB OTG cable.

Is there anything I can do to resolve this problem? Some option for installing missing layouts?

*Supporting, OT and philosophic question*: Is this some kind of political isolation of my country by Google / Android developers or an ostracism? I have carefully checked that there are keyboard layouts for *each and every neighboring country that surrounds Poland* -- i.e. German, Czech, Slovak, Ukrainian, Latvian, Lithuanian and Russian. But there is no for Poland.

**EDIT**: *This question is about Motorola Moto Z2 Play, which has an unmodified, stock version of Android 8.0 Oreo and such version doesn't have "Polish" physical keyboard layout. This question does not deal with devices provided by any other manufacturer, with modified Android, where "Polish" physical keyboard layout can be available.*

# Answer
> 0 votes
edit i am using a nokia 6.1 runing a version of stock android 9 pie

i set my English UK keyboard to polish and Ukrainian layouts i was able to get Ukrainian input working by following this cannot change languange on external keyboard

but i could only get a few polish letters to work can you type in your native language with the on screen keyboard?

try going to settings and search for languages press languages and input press add language and your language should be there then try the keyboard again

# Answer
> 0 votes
Try installing my application Extra Physical Keyboard Layouts. It adds multiple physical keyboard layouts, including Polish (Programmers). No extra permission needed. No screen of its own either. It just adds layouts next to the already existing ones. You can find them under system settings. Please let me know how it worked.

---
Tags: languages, usb-on-the-go, 8.0-oreo, external-keyboard, motorola-moto-z2-play
---


# Question
Title: Under what path is the data for Firefox extensions stored?
`/data/data/org.mozilla.firefox` is the directory in which Firefox's data is stored on Android. Where are Firefox's extensions' settings and data stored in there? The best I can tell is that they're going to be stored under `/data/data/org.mozilla.firefox/files/mozilla/${profile}.default` since the names for everything outside of that folder appears to be for temporary files, the application's cache, and network-related things.

These are the paths that I'm sure do not contain extension data or that I'm sure do contain ALL of the extension data:

* `/data/data/org.mozilla.firefox/files/mozilla/${profile}.default/browser-extension-data`

# Answer
> 2 votes
On Android 10, Firefox `68.7.0`

`/data/data/org.mozilla.firefox/files/mozilla/1q4ydoub.default/extensions`

I am not sure if the number before `.default` is specific to version or something else

For more details, see Firelord's answer here Where Firefox for Android is keeping add-on generated files?

Edit: You can paste `file:///data/data/org.mozilla.firefox/files/mozilla/1q4ydoub.default/extensions` in the search bar to see details of extensions, size, last modified time stamp

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


# Question
Title: Can't boot into recovery or fastboot and not going to EDL completely (Redmi Note 4)
> **Please read the full text and help me if anything can solve my problem. Also I can't go to Mi help center due to this lockdown, so can you suggest ways the help center person would do to fix this issue?**

I have Redmi Note 4 (SD). I flashed MIUI 11.0.6.0 port for mido (ROM discussed in this video.) It had many bugs so I was trying to flash back to stock ROM using Mi Flash Tool (old version).

**I was using linux for fastboot and adb commands and for Mi Flash Tool i was using win 7 in virtual box**

I selected **clean\_all&lock.bat** But after systerm image processing it gave me error

> error message said something about partition not been empty(sorry cant remember the exact error and log file also doesn't exist anymore)

Now my phone was on fastboot mode for atleast 5 hours so I used

```
fastboot reboot

```

via linux terminal.

But phone didn't boot and gave me black (empty screen)

I thought might be battery is low but when I connected it to charger nothing happened.

**I couldn't boot to recovery or fastboot mode (and can't do it now too)**.

I searched on internet more for help and found **about EDL mode.** I tried that but Virtual Machine wasn't loading the Qualcomm driver so **I installed windows 10** .

ALSO I searched about the error on internet and found the solution to use latest mi flash tool.

So I tried with that. BUT I AM NOT SURE IF IT IS CONNECTED BY PROPER EDL MODE BECAUSE MI FLASH TOOL **INSTEAD OF SHOWING COMX AS DEVICE NAME, IT IS SHOWING MY INCOMPLETE FASTBOOT DEVICE NAME** .

I clicked to flash by selecting clean all&lock but it gave me this error

> The volume does not contain a recognized file system.Please make sure that all required file system drivers are loaded and that the volume is not corrupted.

**ALSO THE DEVICE IS SHOWN IN LATEST VERSION BUT NOT IN OLDER VERSION IN EDL MODE**

Then after many attempts to flash

Now it shows this

> $fastboot -s 34564c88 getvar product 2\>&1 | findstr /r /c:"^product: \*MSM8953" || fastboot -s 34564c88 getvar product 2\>&1 | findstr /r /c:"^product: \*mido" || echo Missmatching image and device

It was stuck at this for like 1000+ seconds.

I searched about it and tried this solution. In this it tell to delete line 10 and 11 but in mine file it was present at 4 places so i deleted them all.

But then it got stuck at next command in **clean\_all&lock.bat** file

> \[9:39:38 PM 34564c88\]:start process id 8956 name cmd \[9:39:38 PM 34564c88\]:info1:$rem fastboot -s 34564c88 erase bk12 2\>&1 \[9:39:38 PM 34564c88\]:info1:$if not 0 == 0 exit /B 1 \[9:39:38 PM 34564c88\]:info1:$fastboot -s 34564c88 oem device-info 2\>&1 | findstr /r /c:"Device unlocked: true" || echo Device oem locked

To give a try I deleted this line too but then it got stuck at next line.

---

ALSO TO ACCESS EDL WE NEED TO SHORT **JTAG PINS** BUT MY LAPTOP (WITH WIN 10) ACCEPTS IT WITHOUT DOING THAT

# Answer
> Alecxs helped me with the solution so I am posting the solution that worked for me.

1. Install MIUI 9.6.8.0 fastboot ROM (it works with this only) and extract it to C drive.
2. Run MI flash tool and select the extracted folder.
3. Now boot the phone to EDL Mode and immediately click refresh and then click flash. Because if you are even 2-3 seconds late then process fails.
4. Wait for flashing to complete and then the phone will reboot. If it doesn't reboot then just check (press them a little bit) all the connectors on motherboards of phone (display, fingerprint and battery) and then connect to charger. Battery icon will appear and now you can power ON the phone.

**BOOTING TO EDL MODE**

> Don't remove battery. Not required.

To boot to EDL we need to short JTAG pins that are present on right side of fingerprint connector. (And not the 1st and 4th test points shown in many videos on internet). And while shorting it insert the usb cable immediately. You will see red led light blinking. Phone will be shown as COM4 (probably).

> For more information search google with **test points for Redmi Note 4**
>
> You will be forced to update to MIUI 11.0.2.0 because you will face various bugs like
>
> * mi cloud won't sync
> * fingerprint won't work

**OTHER THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND**

1. If you decide to update to MIUI 11.0.2.0 then don't install **RedWolf** or \** OrangeFox\** recovery because when you enable OTA updates in them and flash MIUI 11 rom you will get \*ERROR 7 * message and and when you reboot you phone will **stuck on MI logo**.
2. When **stuck on MI logo** then don't try flashing rom again using Mi Flash Tool by booting to Fastboot mode (if you can boot to it) because you will get `System flashing error`.

**FIX FOR STUCK ON MI LOGO**

> Requirements
>
> * unlocked bootloader
> * adb and fastboot tools
> * fastboot extracted rom (can be MIUI 11)

If you are stuck there then don't worry. Try if you can boot to Fastboot Mode (Vol - with power key). **If not then try recovery mode or repeat EDL method.** *If yes then read ahead.*

If you can then install adb and fastboot tools in your PC. And paste all images folder files of MIUI 11 fastboot rom to adb folder. Now type the following:

Check if phone is accepted by

```
fastboot devices

```

Now flash system.img by

```
fastboot flash system system.img

```

After completion flash boot.img by

```
fastboot flash boot boot.img

```

After completion flash recovery.img

```
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img

```

After completion flash cache.img

```
fastboot flash cache cache.img

```

> If you want to completely erase user data and make the device a newly bought then type
>
> ```
> fastboot erase userdata
>
> ```
>
> After completion type
>
> ```
> fastboot flash userdata userdata.img
>
> ```

**Flashing is completed**

Now just type `fastboot reboot`. Phone will boot properly now.

> If you are using MIUI 9 or 10 rom to fix stuck on mi logo then when the flashing is done you will face numerous bugs in rom like
>
> * mi cloud won't sync
> * fingerprint won't work properly
> 2 votes

---
Tags: rom-flashing, unbricking, rom, xiaomi, redmi-note-4
---


# Question
Title: Audio on my phone while using earphones is sometimes good and sometimes isn't
**I have Android 10, phone is Umidigi F2**

Sometimes when I use my earphones audio is good but sometimes it's bad. I can't find any reason for that, for example I'll use my phone for some time while having earphones plugged in and audio is good, but after a couple hours I'll use my phone again and plug in earphones and audio would be bad and it would garble.

Any help would be appreciated! :)

# Answer
> 0 votes
First thing first, you should know that there a few basic solutions you can try, just to make sure that it’s not a hardware issue causing this:

**Check the phone’s volume:** Simply press the volume rocker up, in order to increase the volume. Maybe the phone was on silent, which affected the media volume as well.

**Restart your phone:** A simple reboot can be the solution for many problems.

**Clean the headphone jack:** If you’re having this issue only when the headphones are plugged in, try cleaning the jack. Also, try another pair of headphones, since it could be them causing the problem.

**Clean the speakers:** There some smartphones which have some pretty unusual grills for the speakers and they tend to accumulate a lot of stuff which eventually blocks the speakers from emitting sound. However, don’t use a needle or a toothpick, since this can instantly damage the speaker. Instead, rely on a Q-tip for this.

**Clean the cache of your music app:** Go to Settings \> Apps and look for your default music app, then tap on it. Look for the Clean cache button and tap on it.

**Check for any moisture or water-inflicted damage:** Turn off the phone, remove the battery, as well as the SIM and memory card, and see if there’s any moisture or residue inside the phone, which can affect its normal functionality. Eventually, by using the dryer on low heat, keep it for a few seconds over the phone.

---
Tags: audio, headphones
---


# Question
Title: Is there any way to change the size of the text box in Messaging?
I find it hard to edit text messages in the tiny Messaging box. Is there any way to increase the size of it? I'm using CM10 (JB), but the app looks the same as the CM9 (ICS) version.

# Answer
> 3 votes
You can use an alternative like Handcent SMS - it has a button to allow full screen editing. Also, you can customize the font size / style to something more suitable from within Handcent.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Try turning your phone sideways (to Landscape format); then you have a larger window. Works for me (Android 6 Moto phone)

---
Tags: sms
---


# Question
Title: Heimdall error: Setting up interface failed!
While trying to know the pits available in my phone (Samsung GT-I9082, the Grand Duos) heimdall (in Linux) throwed me this error.

What does it mean?

How to resolve it?

# Answer
There are a few options here, let's do the easiest first:

1. Do **not** boot into Download mode from the "4 way menu" from the device, this will cause issues. Ensure you turn the device off and boot into recovery with the `Volume Down` \+ `Power` buttons.
2. Ensure `USB Debugging` is enabled on the device.
3. Ensure has no processes running, or just uninstall it completely. It causes a LOT of issues with USB Drivers.
4. Ensure you have the correct USB Drivers installed for your device.
5. Try a different USB port, and cable if possible.
6. Try deleting `/System/Library/Extensions/Heimdall.kext` and reinstalling Heimdall
7. Try running this command: `sudo kextload /System/Library/Extensions/heimdall.kext` if you get an error then point 3 is your error!
8. Ensure Heimdall has the correct permissions: `sudo chown -R root:wheel /System/Library/Extensions/heimdall.kext`
9. Reinstall your OS (Linux) from scratch (this is a rather **nuclear option** to be honest)

Finally this is more general for other users. If you are using a Mac OS run the following:

```
$ sudo kextunload -b com.devguru.driver.SamsungComposite
$ sudo kextunload -b com.devguru.driver.SamsungACMData
$ sudo kextunload -b com.devguru.driver.SamsungACMContro

```
> 2 votes

# Answer
For me, the solution was booting into download mode AFTER powering off my phone first. I used to go into boatloader mode directly while my phone was on.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: linux, heimdall
---


# Question
Title: Audio resumes whenever bluetooth connects or disconnects - how do I stop this?
This seems to be independent of which bluetooth device I connect/disconnect to (car audio, ear buds, etc), and is also independent of whatever the last app I was listening to (VLC, Pandora, etc).

When I tell an app to stop playing, I'd like it to STAY stopped... not automatically pick up where it left off simply because I stopped or started my car, or got in/out of range of one of my bluetooth audio devices.

# Answer
You can try Bluetooth Connect & Play app. It basically meant to start a specific music app playing when a specific Bluetooth device connects. But you can also select "Stop music from playing" option to keep any app from starting when the car connects to a Bluetooth device. I faced the similar issue on my Toyota and it did help.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: bluetooth, audio, bluetooth-audio
---


# Question
Title: How to share via mail always to the same recipient in one touch
I frequently share things by sending me to my gmail address. So I make 4 steps:

* tap share icon
* tap Gmail icon
* type my own address
* tap send

Is there a way/ app that automatize all these things : one tap on this app on share popup send directly "the thing" to a pre-parametrized recipent(s). ?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Finally, I have founded an app wich makes exactly what I want : share in 2 taps (not 1, it's true) : it's named InboxIt

With the free version, you can only quick share to your self gmail address, but it's largely sufficient for my usage !

---
Tags: automation, share-menu
---


# Question
Title: in.android.location.providers_changed: Toggling Location error
Recently in my android smartphone, while toggling GPS the notification popping up "in.android.location.PROVIDERS\_CHANGED".

Why this is happening recently & not before and how to disable it?

# Answer
> 1 votes
Resolved by uninstalling the NoBroker app.

# Answer
> 0 votes
There are some apps that give debug messages for location, as in my case one assistant app. As soon as I uninstalled the app, the messages disappeared.

---
Tags: security, gps, geolocation, location-services
---


# Question
Title: Allow Apps Access to /data of Other Apps
I recently moved from ES File Explorer to MiXplorer and discovered that I can't access the /data partition of other apps (`/data/data/com.example.app/`). I can only see `/data/data/com.mixplorer.silver/` with MiXplorer, while ES File Explorer can see everything just fine. I can use Termux to work with files of course, but that's the entire point of having a file explorer. Is there anything I can do?

I'm running DerpFest 10-Official-RMX1921-20200407 (Android 10, April 5th 2020 patch) off of a Realme XT rooted with Magisk 20.4 in case it matters.

Thank you for your time.

# Answer
* In MX Explorer settings → More settings → check "allow root" . That should prompt request for root
* Check if root rights have been given to MX Explorer in Magisk Superuser (if not check logs, if it had been denied)
> 1 votes

---
Tags: storage, android-10, es-file-explorer
---


title: File Safe password recovery in honor 9n

text:
# Question
Title: File Safe password recovery in honor 9n
I want to recover honor file safe password. And I forgot the password & security questions... How to recover the password & my files. Any instructions from here?

# Answer
> 0 votes
if you forgot the password and security question of your device then you may change your password through Huawei ID. When you try to try to put the password there you get an option of Forgot password\>\> another verification method\>\> Huawei Id.

If you forgot your Huawei ID and password, then you have to reset your device with the proper backup of the device data :(

---
Tags: password
---


title: Xiaomi Mi5 bypass Mi Account

text:
# Question
Title: Xiaomi Mi5 bypass Mi Account
I got an old Xiaomi Mi5 from a friend that has a Mi Account lock.

He forgot his password so I am not able to use it because the phone is bound to his account.

Is there any chance for me to flash a new firmware on the phone and bypass the account lock? Do I need to unlock the bootloader first?

Thak you for your kindness!

# Answer
you won't be able to unlock the bootloader without the mi account & password ... & without an unlocked bootloader you won't be able to do a fastboot flash
> 1 votes

---
Tags: fastboot, bootloader, xiaomi, bootloader-lock
---


# Question
Title: "Fastboot devices" command doesn't work after macos high sierra 10.14.4 upgrade
I recently upgraded my 2016 MacBook Pro to High Sierra 10.4.4 update and since the update "fastboot devices" command hasn't been working. "fastboot" itself gives a response but "fastboot devices" command gives `ERROR: Couldn't create a device interface iterator: (e00002bd)
ERROR: Couldn't create a device interface iterator: (e00002bd)` error. It comes twice on the window.

# Answer
> 4 votes
I had the same error in version 28.0.3 but it's fixed in 29.0.1. You can download it from the official site.
It's also available from MacPorts, e.g

```
port install android-platform-tools

```

# Answer
> 7 votes
This might be a regression in android-platform-tools. Try fastboot version 9dc0875966c0-android from android-platform-tools 26.0.1 as it works for me on macOS 10.14.4

# Answer
> 2 votes
This is a Fastboot problem which has been fixed by google. See the release notes here:
SDK Platform Tools release notes

Here is what solved my problem:
Start android studio-\>go to sdk manager-\>select SDK Platform Tools -\> Check "Show Details" -\> Select Android Platform Tools -\> Upgrade to 29.0.1 or newer.

See the images for more details:

# Answer
> 2 votes
Short answer: `brew cask install android-platform-tools`

Long answer:

I was in the same case (on macOS 10.14.6):

```
$ fastboot devices
ERROR: Couldn't create a device interface iterator: (e00002bd)

```

I tried previous answers of this topic without success, so I searched which program is at the origin of `fastboot` command:

```
$ which fastboot
/usr/local/bin/fastboot

$ la -l /usr/local/bin/fastboot
lrwxr-xr-x  1 Klemart3D  admin  52  7 jun  2016 /usr/local/bin/fastboot@ -> ../Cellar/android-platform-tools/23.0.1/bin/fastboot

```

In my case, I found my fastboot command was not managed by Android Studio or an independent tool but is a shortcut of a brew formula. So I forced install of new "android-platform-tools" paquet:

```
$ brew cask install android-platform-tools
==> Downloading https://dl.google.com/android/repository/platform-tools_r30.0.0-darwin.zip
######################################################################## 100.0%
==> Verifying SHA-256 checksum for Cask 'android-platform-tools'.
==> Installing Cask android-platform-tools
==> Linking Binary 'adb' to '/usr/local/bin/adb'.
==> Linking Binary 'dmtracedump' to '/usr/local/bin/dmtracedump'.
==> Linking Binary 'etc1tool' to '/usr/local/bin/etc1tool'.
==> Linking Binary 'fastboot' to '/usr/local/bin/fastboot'.
==> Linking Binary 'hprof-conv' to '/usr/local/bin/hprof-conv'.
==> Linking Binary 'mke2fs' to '/usr/local/bin/mke2fs'.
  android-platform-tools was successfully installed!

```

Shortcut is updated to last android-platform-tools version folder:

```
$ ls -l /usr/local/bin/fastboot
lrwxr-xr-x  1 Klemart3D  admin  73  7 may 17:59 /usr/local/bin/fastboot -> /usr/local/Caskroom/android-platform-tools/30.0.0/platform-tools/fastboot

```

And I have no more error!

```
$ fastboot devices

```

---
Tags: fastboot, macos
---


# Question
Title: "call_state_offhook list.size()==0 number is null" when I call someone with my Samsung Galaxy S9
I see a warning:

> "call\_state\_offhook list.size()==0 number is null"

whenever I call someone with my Samsung Galaxy S9. What is the issue and how can I stop seeing this warning?

# Answer
after installing a call recorder, have same message
> 1 votes

# Answer
I found it was due to my call recorder app, uninstalling and reinstalling made no difference. I had to go into settings, then apps, click on the app and storage, followed by clear data. This resolved the issue.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: calls, 9.0-pie, samsung-galaxy-s-9
---


# Question
Title: Does the alarm work when my phone is turned off?
Will the alarm still go off if I turn off the phone before?

Example: when I have low battery, I have to go to sleep and wake up at X o'clock, and there is no charger around. *Should I turn off the phone?*

Note: If it makes any difference my phone is Galaxy S running froyo

# Answer
> 14 votes
No, if the phone is off, it can't do anything. If it's in sleep mode where the screen is off and it's not in use then the alarm will still function as will other types of notifications. I have never tried this specifically on a Galaxy S but I am fairly confident this is a universal rule.

# Answer
> 12 votes
Unfortunately, it doesn't work when phone is powered off as some have already suggested.

My suggestion: put it into Airplane Mode - this way, the phone almost consumes zero energy (due to not having any network connection and so on), and you have a good chance that the battery will last until the morning where the alarm shall go off!

# Answer
> 5 votes
I have a OnePlus2 and I got a new phone to replace it. I turned the OnePlus2 off and left it unplugged overnight but didn't disable the alarm. It automatically powered on and rung the alarm in the morning twice for me so far.

So, depending on your phone model, this does seem to be a thing these days.

# Answer
> 3 votes
**No**

Tested it. It didn't go off when the phone was off.

# Answer
> 1 votes
The feature you are talking about is available in mobiles of companies that use their own custom roms like **OnePlus, Huwaei (Honor Series) and Xiaomi** *\[ I know about these only because that's all I have tried\].*

Although you could try using some kind of **Automation** or **Scheduled Power ON and OFF** (if your mobile support this feature}.

These two are the only workarounds. (In my knowledge!)

---
Tags: power-on, alarm
---


title: Block app internet acces on Galaxy S7?

text:
# Question
Title: Block app internet acces on Galaxy S7?
Is it possible to block an app from accessing internet (both wifi and data) on Galaxy S7 with Android 8? Without using any external firewall app.

Thanks.

# Answer
without root access, a good firewall seems to be the only option. i think netGuard will be good for that.

**but if it's possible, I would recommend update your android up to 9 - then, it will be simple for you to block your apps from accessing the internet.**

---

If you have a relatively new smartphone with Android 9 Pie (or newer), open Settings and go to Wireless & networks.

In the Android settings for networks and Wi-Fi, tap on Data usage. Next, tap on Network access.

Now you see a list with all your installed apps and checkmarks for their access to Mobile data and Wi-Fi. To block an app from accessing the internet, uncheck both boxes next to its name. If you want to turn off the WiFi for certain apps, uncheck the Wi-Fi box for those apps, and leave Mobile data checked. If you tap on System apps, you are going to find out that you can block access only to Mobile data for those apps, and not to Wi-Fi.

This is a restriction designed by Google that ensures your systems apps get connected to the internet, at least when you are connected to WiFi.

When you are done blocking apps from accessing the internet, close the Settings. When you use an Android app which has its internet access blocked, you see a notification like the one below. Do not tap Remove because you are going to remove this restriction.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications, samsung-galaxy-s7, firewall
---


# Question
Title: How can I move installed apps from the old microSD card to a new one, as I swap the cards inside my phone?
In my Android phone, I have moved some installed apps from the internal storage to a MicroSD card. Now I swapped the microSD card with another microSD card inside the phone. How can I move the installed apps from the old to the new microSD card?

My phone is Kyocera Hydro Icon with Android 4.3. It seems to only have one microSD card slot and a SIM card slot inside. I can't find a second microSD card slot.

I can't move installed apps from old microSD card to my internal storage, because my phone doesn't have enough space.

Will it work if I copy the files from one sd card to the other, file by file, by connecting both microSD cards to a computer simultaneously:

* inserting one microSD card to a computer, via microSD-to-SD adapter, and
* inserting the other microSD card to the same computer, via keeping it inside the phone and connecting the phone to the same computer via USB cable?

Update: copy file by file from a sd card to another by connecting both to a computer doesn't make the phone work with the new sd card.

# Answer
> 1 votes
You could try Win32 Disk Imager to read an image from one MicroSD card and write it to another.

First, specify image name and press `Read` button:

Then change sd card and press `Write` button:

Moreover, if there is more storage space on the second SD card, try using free Paragon Partition Manager Community Edition to resize partition (note, FAT32 limited to 32GB):

---
Tags: applications, sd-card
---


title: Notifications don't pop up

text:
# Question
Title: Notifications don't pop up
Recently some of my apps have stopped notifying me about messages or any other things. So, I don't receive notifications in time, but then I open an app and see all those messages that were actually received several hours ago without me knowing about it. If that's not about the notification settings (I've checked that one and everything is OK there), what can it be? The notification issue is in Whatsapp, telegram, and sometimes Facebook. Android 9 Thanks for any suggestions!

# Answer
> 0 votes
If they are not being shown it means notifications for the apps are disabled. What you need to do is go to app settings and enable notifications for the individual apps.

---
Tags: applications, notifications, whatsapp-messenger, telegram
---


# Question
Title: External SD card problems - how do I go back to device storage?
On a new phone with Android One/10 I mounted a 256GB sd card. I formatted is and added it to the system as internal memory (device storage), which is 128GB. Now the system reports a 512GB SD card. I let the system move data to the sd card, and that data is now gone. I can see thumbnails of photos and videos, but can't open or play them. I have a backup, so can restore, but I need to know what is happening and find a way to undo this mess.

After unmounting the card I cannot make photos anymore. It reports too little memory, with about 100GB free on the internal storage. Reformatting the sd card results in a message to choose what to do with it. Choosing external storage and formatting gave the 256GB card back, but internal storage (/sdcard) is gone. In Total Commander, I cannot open it and get an error. The camera app won't open anymore. Evernote refuses to work. Etc etc...

There are hundreds of websites with instructions on how to add internal storage, but none about undoing it.

**How can I get the system to use the device storage again?**

# Answer
There is an option "forget SD storage" in Settings \> Storage. Clicking that restored device storage, and all seems to work normally.
> 3 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, external-sd, android-10, android-one
---


# Question
Title: I'm trying to download Blue Kik, but it keeps giving me the 'App not installed' message
I'm using a TCL LX (which I wouldn't doubt is the problem, due to how bad the phone is) and I'm looking for a simple solution. I've tried installing it multiple times, deleting and re-downloading the APK, but nothing seems to work.

# Answer
> 0 votes
In my case, I get this message if there is not enough storage space on the device, so I would check that and try to free up space by deleting old files or unused apps.

---
Tags: installation, apk
---


# Question
Title: Install MIUI PlayStore using Google Installer, got error: can't downgrade apps for google play service
In my old Xiaomi device, Mi Note2, Mi Mix2, to install google play store, I just run the google installer. It will install everything needed automatically. However recently, I tried to run Google installer on Mi 10, in the step of installing google play service, it's blocked with the following error message: "**can't downgrade apps**", seems a later version of google play service is already pre-installed. How can I bypass this error?

# Answer
> 1 votes
After struggling for a while, I finally successfully installed Google play store. The solution is very simple. We don't need Google installer anymore as Google play service is already installed in the later MIUI version (In my case is MIUI 11), we can directly install Google play store from the APK downloaded from APK websites such as apkmirror.com. After Google play store is installed.

---
Tags: google-play-store, google-play-services, miui, downgrade
---


# Question
Title: How can I mount an ext4-formatted SD card with correct permissions (with root)?
I see some mentions here of creating an ext4-formatted SD card, but no guide. This closely-related question suggests there is no way to do it, but my question differs in that my phone is specifically rooted.

I formatted my card as ext4 (GUID partition-table); my Cyanogenmod phone mounted it at `/mnt/fuse/sdcard1`. I followed instructions here to mount the card at `/storage/sdcard1`, by creating the following script at `/data/local/userinit.sh`

```
#!/system/bin/sh
REALMNT=/mnt/fuse/sdcard1_real
if ! [ -d "$REALMNT" ]; then
  mkdir "$REALMNT" || exit 1
fi
mount -t ext4 /dev/block/mmcblk1p1 "$REALMNT"
sdcard "$REALMNT" /storage/sdcard1 1023 1023 &

```

I restarted and attempting to copy a file (using ES File Explorer) and paste it into its parent directory, which failed:

```
/storage/sdcard1/foo/bar.mp3: open failed: EACCES (Permission denied).

```

I can actually play the file fine, so I *can* open it. FWIW, when I try copying from the original mount point (`/mnt/fuse/sdcard1`), I get a slightly different error:

```
Failed to copy the file bar.mp3

```

I'm using a Samsung Galaxy S3 with Cyanogenmod 10.2.0-i9300.

==EDIT==

```
su
ls -l /mnt/fuse
drwxrwxr-x media_rw media_rw   2014-03-04 22:08 sdcard1

```

That was all. There is no `sdcard1_real` in this directory, so I suppose the script is failing?

==EDIT2==

I tried modifying the script to troubleshoot. The script begins fine, but then fails on `mkdir "$REALMNT"` with the error `/data/local/userinit.sh[6]: : not found`.

==EDIT3==

I know that the script doesn't work, so fixing it might solve my question, but I thought the following was interesting. I formatted my SD card in my Linux computer, and transferred some files to it. Oddly enough, permission errors only occur in the subdirectories that I created. In the root of the partition (via `/storage/sdcard1`), I already have write permission.

# Answer
This was supposedly fixed several months ago, but people are still reporting problems. I can read items on the card, but do not have write permission. To fix it, I combined strategies from a few sources.

1. Partition card with MS-DOS partition table and ext4 filesystem. I used GParted on my (Linux) desktop computer.
2. Insert the card into your phone. (You will probably not have write access now.)
3. Open the terminal emulator, installed by default in Cyanogenmod.
4. Type in the following (I recommend WiFi Keyboard for large blocks of text). Give the emulator root privileges when it requests them.

The `$` and `#` indicate prompts, so don't type them in.

```
$ su
# chown media_rw:media_rw /mnt/media_rw/sdcard1
# chmod g+w /mnt/media_rw/sdcard1

```

This changes the SD card's permissions. The owner and group change from `system` to `media_rw`, and it also gives the group write access.
> 7 votes

# Answer
Not sure if it is any help, but possibly the issue is that that you are trying to mount in the wrong place ? This is my working script that works on an S3 mini with CM11:

```
#!/system/bin/sh
REALMNT=/mnt/media_rw/sdcard1
if ! [ -d "$REALMNT" ]; then
mkdir "$REALMNT" || exit 1
fi
mount -t ext4 -o rw,noatime /dev/block/mmcblk1p1 "$REALMNT"
sdcard "$REALMNT" /storage/sdcard1 1023 1023

```

The REALMNT location already existed, so of course the mkdir was never called. And media\_rw/sdcard1 is already owned by media\_rw

I also had to update /etc/permissions/platform.xml to include: `<group id="media_rw"/>` in: `<permission name="android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE">`
> 2 votes

# Answer
There was an answer posted up by adasdadasd that I wanted to accept, but has since been deleted. I'll reproduce it below, and accept my answer, but if adasdadasd resurfaces, please repost and I'll delete this and accept yours.

> https://jira.cyanogenmod.org/browse/CYAN-332
>
> https://github.com/CyanogenMod/android\_packages\_providers\_MediaProvider/commit/faf3f77b9222554227740aed8127714ea9e3f407
>
> Fixed by default? New change in github.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Here the simpeline

```
#!/system/bin/sh
REALMNT="/mnt/media_rw/extSdCard"
mount -t ext4 -o rw,noatime /dev/block/mmcblk1p1     "$REALMNT"
sdcard "$REALMNT" /storage/extSdCard 1023 1023 &

```

And here writable ext4 on external sd

```
#!/system/bin/sh
chown media_rw:media_rw /mnt/media_rw/extSdCard
chmod g+w /mnt/media_rw/extSdCard

```

You can change "extSdCard" like "sdcard1" where your external sdcard mounted

Iam used stockrom with Kingroot, but I try Supersu its trouble with mounting filesystem
> 0 votes

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, samsung-galaxy-s-3, external-sd, root-access, ext4
---


# Question
Title: 'android' and 'emulator' commands not found
I have installed **android-sdk-linux** on my ubuntu 12.04 netbook and I see that the commands *android* (which opens the AVD Manager) and *emulator* (to which on appending the name of a specific AVD, the AVD boots) are not found! It suggested *qemulator* But that turned out to have nothing to do with the android-sdk-linux.

I do know how to boot it via **eclipse**, where you open the AVD list and then select an AVD and click Start and then Launch.

But I don't want to go through these many stages. Instead I would like Launch it using a single command line viz. the *emulator* command, which I found on the website developer.android.com. I followed installation instructions. Yet I didn't get success.

UPDATE: As our friend suggested, I updated the $PATH variable and had partial success. However there is still an error and I have to get that rectified. Here is what panned out.

```
aneesh@nb-14:~$ export PATH=$PATH:android-sdk-linux/tools
aneesh@nb-14:~$ emulator @Andreud
emulator: ERROR: This AVD's configuration is missing a kernel file!!

```

# Answer
> 0 votes
The Error stating that the AVD's config is missing a Kernel file is because when I checked the AVD Manager, the concerned AVD had a red cross-mark against it! Once I repaired this AVD I found that the error was eliminated!

# Answer
> 0 votes
Need to add emulator -"$ANDROID\_INSTALLATION/Android/Sdk/emulator" to your $PATH variable. after adding the path variable you will need to restart the terminal session. and / or you can permanently add the path variable by editing the bashrc/profile file depending your distribution.

---
Tags: android-emulator, command-line
---


title: Bugreport location

text:
# Question
Title: Bugreport location
If I have bug reports enabled in dev options and I take a bugreport from the power button menu, where are these reports saved?

I see there is an option to share it, but I want to pull it directly through adb for analysis.

# Answer
> 8 votes
Bugreports are stored in `/data/data/com.android.shell/files/bugreports`.

You can't access the file directly without root access.

# Answer
> 10 votes
As of Android 10, at least for Pixel devices, bugreports taken from the device are available in `/bugreports` \- **even without root access!** You can get the names of the available bug reports with

```
adb shell ls /bugreports/

```

then get the file you want with `adb pull`, e.g.

```
adb pull /bugreports/bugreport-foobar-lotsofnumbers-date.zip

```

# Answer
> 5 votes
In my case, they are in `/data/user_de/0/com.android.shell/files/bugreports/`

# Answer
> 4 votes
You can connect your device to your PC, and use android SDK tools adb, then go to the directory and in your command line use `adb shell bugreport > bugreport.txt` Your bugreport will output.

# Answer
> 2 votes
If you want to view the bug reports on your PC, run adb from a directory where you want to save the bugreports with

```
adb pull /data/data/com.android.shell/files/bugreports

```

But this may require `root` permission.

---
Tags: debug
---


title: Flashing CM13 on Galaxy Tab GT-P3100

text:
# Question
Title: Flashing CM13 on Galaxy Tab GT-P3100
I have a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2, GT-P3100. It has quite an outdated firmware and is bulky with loads of unnecessary apps. I wish to flash it with CM13.

Now firstly my device isn't rooted. Secondly I have no prior experience in rooting/flashing. Lastly, I don't have an SD card, but do have a PC (and of course internet access to download all the necessary tools).

Under such circumstances, is there a way for me to flash CM13 without having to purchase or lend an SD card? Also, is it worth the flash? Will CM13 run at all, given about 500 mb or RAM is at most free when the device is idle? If not, what are my alternatives, if any?

Edit: I have the zips for CM13 and Gapps.

# Answer
> 2 votes
**Caution: I have rooted my device for the first time, I have no prior experience in rooting. Continue at your own risk.**

I am not sure about the RAM part, but we can flash the custom ROM from the internal SD card too. The following link is for explains the installation process for Installing CM 10.1 on Galaxy Tab2, however, we can follow the same steps for GT-P3100:

https://www.droidviews.com/how-to-install-cyanogenmod-10-1-rom-on-samsung-galaxy-tab-2-7-0-and-tab-2-10-1/

I also followed the following youtube video and downloaded the zips for CM and Gapp from the link in the description:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYZUKqGPNcE

Also, I had an error while installing the Gapp(it got aborted). I fixed it using the default option in the menu.

Finally, the device is working properly, there was no issue due to the error encountered during Gapp installation.

---
Tags: cyanogenmod, samsung, rom-flashing
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to determine whether a purchased phone has a new battery?
I recently purchased a Samsung phone that was listed as "factory refurbished". Something I found on Samsung's website says that factory refurbished phones will have a new battery installed. However, this particular phone was being sold by a 3rd party, so I would like to verify whether the battery is actually new when the phone arrives so I can take advantage of the return window if necessary.

Is it possible to determine whether the battery is new, or to gain any information that would provide evidence one way or another, using either built-in features or a third party program?

# Answer
> 1 votes
* If the battery is user replaceable, you can check the production number on that and try to decode battery date. I don't know if the manufacturer numbering scheme is standardised or if the app can be trusted to decipher, so I would suggest the alternative below. **Edit** Accubattery Pro gives you an indication of estimated Vs actual capacity . I have no idea how accurate it is but surely can be indicative
* A reliable indicator is the battery capacity, since capacity reduces with age. A battery, even if not used loses it's capacity to hold charge, significantly, over a period of time. You can refer to question for details How to determine maximum capacity of a battery in mAh? - received fake battery
* If device is rooted, you can check if information here helps `/sys/class/power_supply/battery/`

---
Tags: battery, battery-life
---


title: How to root Oppo Realme 2

text:
# Question
Title: How to root Oppo Realme 2
I couldn't find a guide online to root my Oppo Realme 2 (RMX1805, Color OS Version 6.0, Android Version 9). So how can I root my Oppo Realme 2?

Update: I have unlocked my bootloader following the instructions here.

# Answer
> 2 votes
first step is unlock bootloader, which you have done already. i will post this step as mandatory

**1) unlock bootloader: WARNING all data lost**

* download latest platform-tools to PC
* enable OEM unlocking in developer options
* reboot device into bootloader mode (keep holding `Volume Down` while rebooting or power on device with `Volume Down` \+ `Power`)
* connect device with usb cable and install usb drivers for PC
* navigate to folder `platform-tools` from cmd.exe
* unlock bootloader from fastboot (confirm with `Volume Up`)

```
fastboot devices
fastboot flashing unlock

```

---

**2) boot custom recovery without modifying/flashing device**

* download custom recovery TWRP into `platform-tools` folder
* boot TWRP from fastboot (do not flash)

```
fastboot boot twrp.img

```
* **DO NOT swipe** to allow modifications of system
* wait 30 seconds then install adb usb drivers for PC
* tap the icon  lower right corner and check the log for
**a)** `Data successfully decrypted` (or no error)
**b)** `Failed to mount '/data'`

---

**3) dump the current boot partition from device** (depending on mounting `/data` a) successful or b) failed)

* **a**) backup `boot.emmc.win` from TWRP

+ *TWRP* \- tap *Backup* \- select *Boot* partition
    + copy `TWRP/BACKUPS` folder to PC via MTP
* **b**) backup `boot.img` from adb

```
adb devices
adb pull /dev/block/bootdevice/by-name/boot boot.emmc.win

```

---

**edit:** (other method)

* **c) extract boot.img from OTA (stock ROM) with ozipdecrypt.py**
if for whatever reason TWRP is not available (or not booting) you still can find stock ROM for your device. However, flashing boot.img from download is risky, make 100% sure that this build number is matching your device

```
ro.build.description=S88051AA1-user 9 PKQ1.190319.001 eng.root.20190830.025347 release-keys
ro.build.display.full_id=RMX1805_11_A.60_190830

```

+ install Python 3.8.2
    + install pycryptodome

    ```
    pip3.exe install pycryptodome

    ```
    + download and extract oppo\_ozip\_decrypt-master.zip
    + download stock ROM
    + run `ozipdecrypt.py` from cmd.exe

    ```
    python.exe ozipdecrypt.py RMX1805EX_11_OTA_0600_all_LtoqeM8aS1Gq.ozip

    ```
    + check folder `out` and rename `out\boot.img` into `boot.emmc.win` (just to not confuse with encrypted boot.img, name of file doesn't matter)

    (i have uploaded the converted stock ROM here, `recovery.img` is missing)

---

**4) root your device with Magisk**

* **a**) install Magisk directly from TWRP (may brick device)

+ copy Magisk-v20.4.zip to Storage or MicroSD via MTP
    + *TWRP* \- tap *Install* \- select `Magisk-v20.4.zip` \- *Swipe to confirm Flash*
    + reboot device (*TWRP* \- tap *Reboot* \- tap *System*)

---

* **b**) patch `boot.emmc.win` "offline" with Magisk Manager

+ reboot device (*TWRP* \- tap *Reboot* \- tap *System*)
    + copy `boot.emmc.win` to Internal Storage via MTP
    + install + launch MagiskManager-v7.5.1.apk
    + enable *Advanced Settings* \- ***Preserve force encryption***
    + tap on *Install (1)* \- *Install (2)* \- *Select and Patch a File*
    + allow permissions for storage
    + navigate to Internal Storage and select `boot.emmc.win`
    (this will start patching immediately but does not modify your device - no worry the text "Flashing.." is misleading)

    ---

    **(5) flash the rooted boot image from fastboot**

    - copy `magisk_patched.img` to PC via MTP
        - reboot device into bootloader mode (keep holding `Volume Down` while rebooting or power on device with `Volume Down` \+ `Power`)
        - boot `magisk_patched.img` without modifying/flashing device (for testing purposes)

        ```
        fastboot devices
        fastboot boot magisk_patched.img

        ```
        - if it works: reboot device into bootloader mode
        - flash `magisk_patched.img` to boot partition (may brick device)

        ```
        fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img
        fastboot reboot

        ```

---

**Unbricking** (method b) only)

* reboot device into bootloader mode (keep holding `Volume Down` while rebooting or power on device with `Volume Down` \+ `Power`)
* flash your backup of original `boot.emmc.win` from fastboot

```
fastboot devices
fastboot flash boot boot.emmc.win
fastboot reboot

```

# Answer
> 1 votes
I think the ROOT of Oppo phones is not too difficult because it has Recovery Mode by itself, can directly flash ROOT files.

**Important:** Please backup your data and download the original ROM file on OPPO homepage before doing so, in case of any possible uncertainties. Now, all you need to do is download the SuperSU file, save it to the storage device or SD card.

Download this file: SuperSU 2.82 SR5

If it does not work, try with this file, it works on most Oppo devices (however, this is not the latest version of SuperSU, but it is still fully supported): OPPO SuperSU

Next, turn off the phone. Now start pressing Volume Down and Power keys together for a few moments. Wait for a while, the screen will display the language selection menu, it supports English, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese. Here, we choose English. You can move options with the volume up and down keys, select them with the power key, or you can press directly on the screen.

In the ColorOS RECOVERY options panel, select `Install from storage device`, navigate to the SuperSU file you just selected and flash it.

Before rebooting, go to `Wipe data` then wipe cache.

Everything is completed, when you reboot, on the phone screen will appear SuperSU, you have successfully ROOT!

Note: Using this method SuperSU will be saved to the system partition. Ie you will not be able to uninstall it but can turn it off as other system applications. To remove ROOT, go to Oppo homepage, download the original ROM, then use the above method to reinstall the operating system.

Good luck.

---
Tags: rooting
---


# Question
Title: How to downgrade from Android 9 to Android 8 or Android 7 on LG V20?
I am using LG V20, model number is LG-F800K. 2 days ago, I installed the official update to Android 9. However after the update, my phone became battery drained faster and worked slower than before. I have tried at least the following 3 ways to try to get back to Android 7 or Android 8:

1. https://forum.xda-developers.com/v20/how-to/guide-lg-v20-to-life-t3827732 -\> "Download failed" error.
2. https://lg-firmwares.com/how-to-flash/#how-to-flash-new -\> Unknown model.
3. https://lg-firmwares.com/how-to-flash/#how-to-flash-old -\> Error "could not connect to server".

As of now, I really don't know how to reduce the Android version on this device?

I would appreciate your help.

# Answer
I have downgraded the version successfully. You need to use LGUP DualMode in this case, it will help identify your device!

You can download it here (Copyright © by TecKnight): LGUP\_DualMode.zip
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 9.0-pie, lg
---


# Question
Title: disconnect adb of device connected over TCP does not work
I run the following command to connect device over TCP ;

```
adb connect 192.168.56.102:5555

```

I am not able now to disconnect it I even made two attempts :

```
 adb disconnect 192.168.56.102:5555

```

The second is , I reboot adb

```
  adb reboot

```

Unfortunately, when I run `adb devices` , the connection is still there :

```
List of devices attached
192.168.56.102:5555 device

```

Brief, I am looking for the opposite of this answer

# Answer
I just use "adb disconnect" and it worked fine for me. See the photo below:
> 16 votes

# Answer
To kill the server currently running you need to type: `adb kill-server` in command prompt. This should stop the instance of a running server.
> 3 votes

# Answer
Use `adb -s deviceName disconnect`.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: adb
---


# Question
Title: How to wirelessly share tablet screen with someone far away?
I bought an Android tablet for my grandma (Amazon Fire 8 HD - but I got Google Play Store working) and if she has any questions I want her to be able to share her screen with me (I live far away).

I want to see her tablet screen on my Android phone or my PC. As an additional feature I would like to be able to talk to her to say what she should do.

Basically what I want is exactly what Skype can do on a PC (talking and screen sharing) unfortunately the Skype Android app can't do that(?).

I found a few apps like "ScreenShare" and others but they didn't seem to work when our devices are in different WiFi Networks. Does anyone know an app or a way that can do the trick?

# Answer
> 1 votes
**Using computer**

I think the best mobile screen share is to show the screen on your computer and then share your computer screen with your friend.

1. user the **vysor** to share your Android device screen on your computer with Chrome easily and quickly.
2. then use **TeamViewer** to share screen with friends quickly

both of them are free for personal use and I had used them to help my parent to solve the issue on their mobile phones.

**Control Mobile Directly**

The another suggested app: TeamViewer QuickSupport app

1. install TeamViewer on your computer
2. install TeamViewer QS on your grandma's tablet, get the "Your ID"=\> ID
3. Use the ID in step2 to send a request to connect your grandma's tablet.
4. Your grandma need to accept the request
5. Then you will see the screen on your computer

6. You can request screen capture, remote control, and see the app list on this interface.
7. Maybe the remote controlling needs root permission on the tablet. If it need, please try to install Super Su.

# Answer
> 0 votes
The accepted answer was correct for 2016, in 2020 there are much easier solutions.

Firstly, Skype added this feature by now and otherwise there is also Facebook Messenger and probably others.

A solution I found however is even more simple and requires a one time installation of one app called Screen Meet on your grandmothers device for example and accessing the stream through a link just like you twitch does.

---
Tags: hardware, tablet, screen-sharing
---


# Question
Title: Galaxy Note 8 unresponsive to touch input
I've been pulling my hair out over this one for a while now and have been unable to find anything on Google to help.

I recently bought a Samsung Galaxy Note 8 (wifi UK version) and found a very annoying issue with it. I've found that whilst using touch input, the screen can become unresponsive to touch for a few seconds. This seems to happen once every 5-10 minutes and lasts 3-5 seconds or so. It's especially annoying when playing games that rely on touch input. It's most noticeable with Plants Vs Zombies and Scribblenauts.

The tablet as a whole isn't hanging or crashing, because the game is still running, the music still playing and the screen still updating. It just doesn't register any touch input.

The only thing I found that might have been remotely helpful to this issue was a forum post claiming that Dropbox could cause this. I disabled Dropbox on the device and didn't notice any improvement.

I believe the firmware revision is 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.

Does anyone know what to do about this?

UPDATE: The 4.2.2 firmware became available for this device yesterday. Installing it seems to have resolved the issue (so far).

# Answer
It looks like the issue was in either Jellybean 4.1 or Samsung's supporting software. I've upgraded the tablet to the official 4.2 firmware and have had no recurrences of the problem described above.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Alternatively, for anyone else potentially having similar problems, you can try using the stylus instead as it runs off a completely separate magnetic-induction-based digitizer.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: touchscreen, samsung-galaxy-note-8
---