# Question
Title: Is there a way to control/use Google Play Protect together with microG (open source Google Play service alternative)?
I'm facing a tricky scenario, sometime back I decided to discontinue using Google Play Services in favour of an open source alternative \- microG due to constant problems and crashing of several Google applications on my device.

As Google launched Google Play Protect1 feature (on all Android devices running Google Play Services 11 or later), this seems to be missing or at least I'm not sure how to use it (i.e enable or disable it) with microG.

With a device running Google Play Services, one can easily control it by navigating to: `Settings ➡ Google ➡ Security ➡ Google Play Protect`

I wish to be able to control this feature on microG so I can control/disable constant false positive notifications about my installed applications being harmful, and also to have my applications regularly scanned.

Is there way to control "Play Protect" on a device running microG, or at least to integrate via another means, perhaps an Xposed module?

---

1

> Google Play Protect is a feature that is, essentially, an evolution of the company’s “Verify Apps” service that was rolled out to Android many years ago. The feature, which will be enabled by default on all Android devices, is meant to be a real-time malware scanner that will scan every installed or about-to-be installed app and inform users in case there’s something amiss.

# Answer
> 2 votes
Google Play Protect can be disabled by editing these XML files:

> /data/system/users/0/settings\_secure.xml

```
package_verifier_user_consent=-1

```

> /data/system/users/0/settings\_global.xml

```
package_verifier_enable=0
upload_apk_enable=0

```

**Edit**

On older Android, it is stored in a database located at: `/data/data/com.android.providers.settings/databases/settings.db`. You need to use some database editor to change that parameter

---
Tags: security, google-play-services, micro-g, play-protect
---


# Question
Title: MacroDroid asks for "Application Launched/Closed" accessibility permission constantly
I'm on non-rooted Android 8.1 Oreo with MacroDroid Pro v3.24.1. After I got a replacement phone and reinstalled MacroDroid, it constantly asks for accessibility permission: Application Launched/Closed.

There are three accessibility permissions available:

* MacroDroid
* MacroDroid Fingerprint Gesture Detector
* MacroDroid Volume Button Monitor

I enabled the first and last and kept the fingerprint off as this disables drawer swiping. I don't get where to allow that accessibility permission it is asking for.

Any suggestions?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I am an avid user of MacroDroid and noticed this issue with two devices and raised this issue on app forums (accessible from within the device and my post dated 24 December 17- unable to link)

This is what the developer said

> It's not a MacroDroid issue but a system issue that can happen with any app.
>
> If you Google the issue you will find stuff like this: Accessibility services gets disabled automatically

I find this to be true, since I had this problem on stock ROM but not on custom ROM

Quite possibly same case with you

---
Tags: settings, accessibility, macrodroid
---


# Question
Title: how to stop motorola moto G5 from automatically rebooting?
I have a Motorola Moto G5S (it is displayed exactly like this in the about/status config) running android 7.1.1 (stock ROM from my telecom)

Sometimes it reboots out of the blue, even when I am using an app. The device is not having any storage shortage, or overheating.

Is there a way to stop it from doing so?

# Answer
**Assuming you have keep a stock ROM on your phone (don't have root it), the cause can be both hardware and/or software.**

I explain myself: either the cause is material, or a heat problem putting the temperature sensor(s) on alert or even the components themselves overheating thus obliging them at a given moment to stop. In this case, you would already feel a significant increase in warmth with your bare hand when picking up your phone. The last possible cause of this scenario would be a design flaw, it seems to me that this phone is recent, perhaps reason why this kind of trouble starts to make edge effects and therefore untimely restarts. The battery may also be involved, voltage variations that would no longer power the phone enough for a few seconds, forcing Android to turn off.

The second hypothesis, namely the software, therefore in this case Android, could be the cause, in this case, the diagnosis could become more complicated than for a material cause. Indeed, it could be that a system or user application poses a problem. If the last words i quoted don't scare you, then you might find an anomaly in the system log files, namely in the logcat, an explanatory tutorial has been written very well on XDA, i let you read it: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1726238

Always in a software case, the problem could simply come from an old application, not updated for a certain time that you would use to perform a very precise task in a very precise way.

I would suggest you to make a complete backup of your data on your phone before anything else, and this in a separate way (a backup of each type of data such as SMS MMS and call log on one side and photos, videos, music on the other side). Then a simple cleanup of the data partition, cache, as well as the dalvik cache through your reovery menu, followed by a reboot to test your phone.

By hoping you find this information useful.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: reboot, 7.1-nougat, motorola-moto-g5
---


# Question
Title: How to hide navigation bar on home screen of Samsung J6
How to hide the navigation bar on home screen of Samsung J6?

# Answer
Maybe that in the Settings app, you could setup the full screen mode setting especially for the default samsung launcher. By this way you could hide the navigation bar, or the statubar or the navigation bar and the statubar.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: navigation-bar
---


title: How to restore a Helium backup?

text:
# Question
Title: How to restore a Helium backup?
I am transfering to a new phone, and I backed up my stuff using helium to Dropbox. Later I copied that folder to `carbon` folder on my sdcard, but helium doesnt seem to detect it. Any idea how I can restore that? It looks like the format is different.. Regular backup seems to be `carbon/com.appname/files` but in my dropbox backup, its only files, no folders at all.

# Answer
> 11 votes
There are multiple ways you can achieve this:

## On the device

1. Start *Helium*
2. pick any "dummy app" to create a backup from
3. Exit *Helium*
4. Check where it placed the backup files, and which files those are (a backup consists of multiple files)
5. Copy your backup files to that location
6. Check if for each app there are all the files you've checked above1
7. Start *Helium* again, it now should find the backups
8. Restore whatever you wanted to restore

## If the "old phone" is still up and running

The app is called "Helium *App Sync* and Backup". So when you go to its *Restore and Sync* tab, you should be able to transfer and restore the backups across the devices. I've never tried that, so I cannot give any details on it.

## Using your computer

*Helium Backup* uses the same file format as ADB (in fact, it uses ADB locally to create and restore backups). So with the backup files on your computer, and the device connected via USB with enabled, you could simply restore the backups from the command line. Just pick the `.ab` files for that, and run

```
adb restore com.foobar.ab

```

(of course, you've got to replace `com.foobar.ab` by the real file names). See Is there a minimal installation of ADB? if you didn't set up your computer for use with ADB yet. The downloads mentioned there can also be found here.

---

**1:** I rawly remember from a while ago that *Helium* might "ignore" a backup when one of those files were missing

# Answer
> 1 votes
Dropbox backup lacked the folders for each app somehow, and thus was not recognized when I tried to copy it to the new phone. I instead made a backup to SD card and transferred it to the new phone to restore. Seems to be working thus far.

# Answer
> 0 votes
If the files were .zip files as made by Helium V1.1.4.6 you can:

1. Unzip them until you have a folder `example app backup folder` with a `example app backup file.ab` file in it.
2. Then you can put that folder on your phone in the folder `\carbon`. Then Helium detects it, since it also stores its own backups in that location.
3. Restore the app backups from your dropbox.

The difference is that when you export backups it creates zipfiles, otherwise it creates a folder with `.ab` files in it, as Izzy's answer mentions.

This way you can:

* Restore all the files at once
* Without requiring to set up a connection with the pc.

Tested on Android 6.0.1

---
Tags: backup
---


# Question
Title: Phone, Contacts, Camera and Messages icons are missing
Galaxy J3 - Phone, Contacts, Camera and Messages icons are missing. I tried following the directions someone else had posted; but, my application manager does not have a GENERAL TAB nor is there a TURNED OFF list. Thanks!

# Answer
> -2 votes
Try factory reset, it should solve the problem

---
Tags: hardware, notification-icons
---


title: Apps not getting downloaded

text:
# Question
Title: Apps not getting downloaded
When I am installing my apps from Playstore its not getting installed and the previous apps which are already installed or not getting updated I brought a new mobile from a store recently but I am facing this issue:

# Answer
> 0 votes
Check your network speed, 4g is better option, many times it is observed that on low data connection playstore makes trouble to download apps... I can help further if you have mentioned your device name and model

# Answer
> 0 votes
It could be one of these problems

* Slow Internet connection -\**it's seems unlikely, you have 4G connection \**
* Cache of Google playstore
* \**remove cache and data from Google playstore \**

---
Tags: updates
---


# Question
Title: Switch Live Wallpapers Automatically without Root
I am wondering whether there is any way to switch between like wallpapers on my Pixel 2 without rooting it as it is a Verizon phone with a locked bootloader. I have 2 live wallpapers I like and would like for then to automatically switch... I've tried using Tasker and Automate, but both require root. If there is any way please let me know. Thank you!

# Answer
> -1 votes
You can try smart wallpaper from playstore I've tried on static wallpaper But it's worth a try on live wallpaper

---
Tags: 8.1-oreo, live-wallpaper
---


# Question
Title: Why (bind) mounts in /storage/emulated/0 are not visible in apps?
I mounted a directory into another directory with:

```
mount --bind "/storage/sdcard/dir1" "/storage/sdcard/dir2"

```

I do this at boot completion with Tasker. I can see the mounted files in `adb shell` and in Termux, even as non-root user. But I can not see these files in apps like Total Commander or my Music Player.

I use Lineage 7.1.2.

In this thread, a solution is to switch off "mount namespaces" in SuperSU. Unfortunately, I have the LineageOS default SU app which does not seem to provide such option. Any suggestions?

# Answer
I have been using bind mounts without disabling mount namespaces on Android for a while - Marshmallow (Android 6) and Nougat (Android 7.1, LineageOS 14.1).

The bind mount is not visible to other apps because `/storage/sdcard/` itself is also a layer of indirection. For example, when you run `mount`, you can see that the emulated "internal" SD card is not located at `/storage/emulated`, but at `/data/media`:

```
/data/media on /mnt/runtime/default/emulated type sdcardfs (rw,nosuid,nodev,noexec,noatime,uid=1023,gid=1023,multiuser)
/data/media on /storage/emulated type sdcardfs (rw,nosuid,nodev,noexec,noatime,uid=1023,gid=1023,multiuser)
/data/media on /mnt/runtime/read/emulated type sdcardfs (rw,nosuid,nodev,noexec,noatime,uid=1023,gid=1023,multiuser)
/data/media on /mnt/runtime/write/emulated type sdcardfs (rw,nosuid,nodev,noexec,noatime,uid=1023,gid=1023,multiuser)

```

These three mountpoints in `/mnt/runtime` are documented at Storage, Runtime permissions:

> Android 6.0 introduces a new runtime permissions model where apps request capabilities when needed at runtime. Because the new model includes the READ/WRITE\_EXTERNAL\_STORAGE permissions, the platform needs to dynamically grant storage access without killing or restarting already-running apps. It does this by maintaining three distinct views of all mounted storage devices:
>
> * `/mnt/runtime/default` is shown to apps with no special storage permissions, and to the root namespace where adbd and other system components live.
> * `/mnt/runtime/read` is shown to apps with `READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`
> * `/mnt/runtime/write` is shown to apps with `WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`

So to make a directory visible to all other apps, you need to create the mounts in these places:

```
mkdir /mnt/runtime/{default,read,write}/dir2
mount -o bind /mnt/runtime/default/sdcard/dir1 /mnt/runtime/default/sdcard/dir2
mount -o bind /mnt/runtime/read/sdcard/dir1 /mnt/runtime/read/sdcard/dir2
mount -o bind /mnt/runtime/write/sdcard/dir1 /mnt/runtime/write/sdcard/dir2

```

To unmount:

```
umount /mnt/runtime/default/dir2
umount /mnt/runtime/read/dir2
umount /mnt/runtime/write/dir2
rmdir /mnt/runtime/{default,read,write}/dir2

```

In your question, the source and target are at the same filesystem, so the above will probably work as-is and show dir2 to other apps.

You can verify that the bind mounts are "visible" as intended by looking up the process ID of the desired app, and then checking the list of mounts from that app's point of view:

```
# cat /proc/(process ID here)/mountinfo

```

## Debugging tips

If you cannot access the contents of the bind mount (i.e. "Permission denied" or something similar), then you should check whether the original file has the right UNIX permissions/ownership AND a SELinux label that matches the context. The latter can be debugged by looking for "avc: denied" errors in logcat-color (or just `adb logcat`). In some cases this can be fixed by using `restorecon` or `chcon`.

For example, I used to get the following error when I tried to access `/sdcard/DCIM` (which is a bind mount to a directory on external SD card).

> avc: denied { write } for comm=... name="Camera" dev="dm-1" ino=3547138 scontext=u:r:priv\_app:s0:c512,c768 tcontext=u:object\_r:mnt\_media\_rw\_file:s0 tclass=dir permissive=0

And fixed that one by observing that the SELinux label is wrong (the `tcontext` in the error message already told me so):

```
# ls -Z /mnt/media_rw/myextcard/my_DCIM_directory
drwxrwx--x  4 media_rw media_rw  u:object_r:mnt_media_rw_file:s0  4096 2018-06-08 12:34 .

```

and changed that (recursively) to a label which is allowed by the default policy on LineageOS:

```
# chcon -R u:object_r:media_rw_data_file:s0:c512,c768 /mnt/media_rw/myextcard/my_DCIM_directory

```

This worked for me, because `/sepolicy` has a rule that states that `priv_app` can access `media_rw_data_file` files. Those who have a different situation/ROM can use setools-android to parse their `/sepolicy` file to see their options.
> 4 votes

---
Tags: root-access, shell, mount, lineageos
---


# Question
Title: Completely disabling cellular data and limiting apps only to WiFi when available
I've recently (2 months ago) purchased my first smartphone. I'm on a sort of prepaid contract (I pay what I use in terms of calls and SMS and it's automatically withdrawn from my bank account).

For years I have been paying like 6-7 EUR per month (at the most!). I don't like using phones in general and smartphone is a new thing for me but I bought it just for the cheap GPS and camera (not the mobile surfing). After the first month I got a surprising 30 EUR bill. Every once in a while I was getting notifications about new mail, or Skype messages etc. and I was wondering why this was happening (I know, I sound like a member of the Flintstone family) because I never enabled mobile data transfer. As it seems it is turned by default.

I went to my service provider and the guy deactivated the data connection. To my question "Can I just block any Internet activity through cellular connection for my number?" he told me that it's not possible (why he did not explain). Just to make sure things were all set I even put a data cap on cellular data at 10KB. In addition I have also limited updates of apps only to WiFi that is if I'm connected to a WiFi network only then apps should check for updates and download those.

I've just received my bill for last month (the second month of me using the smartphone). And this time it was just painful - 81 EUR. I checked my bill's details and I saw the following strange reoccurring Internet traffic:

```
Data usage
Date       Time     Service  Units Cost
25.04.2018 04:23:28 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
26.04.2018 14:35:54 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
27.04.2018 16:59:36 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
28.04.2018 04:53:32 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
29.04.2018 02:37:58 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
30.04.2018 11:23:06 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
03.05.2018 13:57:57 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
04.05.2018 12:43:26 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
08.05.2018 05:08:03 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
09.05.2018 15:13:30 Internet 39:34 Min 2,9410
13.05.2018 19:34:04 Internet 1 Min 0,0756
13.05.2018 23:22:19 Internet 37:58 Min 2,8654
14.05.2018 14:11:45 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
15.05.2018 10:21:09 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
16.05.2018 10:32:32 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
17.05.2018 10:23:51 Internet 39:23 Min 2,9410
18.05.2018 19:38:51 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
19.05.2018 09:48:12 Internet 38:54 Min 2,9410
20.05.2018 04:41:42 Internet 39:34 Min 2,9410
21.05.2018 06:16:51 Internet 39:34 Min 2,9410
22.05.2018 10:05:11 Internet 39 Min 2,9410

```

All in all 68 EUR without VAT, 81 EUR with it.

Needless to say I am far from happy.

I started digging and checked the data use for every single app. Almost all apps had the background data use (cellular connection) enabled by default. I wan't sure what the background data is so I read a little bit. `The descriptions is also useful namely: Enable usage of cellular data in the background`.

I checked some of the apps (like YouTube) and I saw that while 80% or so of the traffic was foreground many times there were couple of hundreds of megabytes background data.

I disabled all background data use now for all apps but I wonder if that is not the case why I got that fat bill. If that's the case there are multiple things that bother me namely

* why did the cellular data limit not kick in? In the stats for cellular data I still get literally no data being used
* why even with data connection disabled cellular is used at all?
* why am I not getting Skype, Hangouts etc. messages, new email notifications, Chrome shows I'm offline etc. if cellular is indeed enabled?

Especially with Google Photos (I have syncing between my phone and the online service enabled) the situation is horrible - 466MB foreground, 2.08GB background between 10th of May and 7th of June.

What else am I missing? Clearly the guy at the shop didn't help and I'm very new to this smartphone thing. I simply want to use Internet (any sort of Internet connectivity) ONLY when I'm connected to a WiFi network (home, work).

# Answer
> 1 votes
First, "not possible" is a straight lie. The carrier is perfectly capable of turning that feature off and limit you to "calls and SMS only". They simply don't want to.

Second, you could try some Firewall app in whitelist mode (i.e. by default all apps are blacklisted). Take e.g. a look at ***NetGuard*** (I recommend taking it from F-Droid, though it's also available at Playstore). This firewall app doesn't require rooting your device, and you can set up mobile-data restrictions separate from WiFi:

<sup>*NetGuard:* List of apps, settings for a specific app, defaults (source: Google Play; click images for larger variants)</sup>

As the screenshots show, you can set the default to "block mobile by default", so you don't have to take care for new apps unless you want to allow them.

Third: I find it very strange that mobile data are summing up if you have disabled them, that shouldn't happen. But using a firewall app, you should at least be able to reduce that massively.

---
Tags: wi-fi, mobile-network, background-data
---


# Question
Title: Possible to use another application as default camera application?
Many apps let u use only the default built-in camera app. They not allow you to choose a third party app, such as the app "fake camera". Is there a way to remove/replace the default camera app? Any ideas?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Yes, it's possible. At least, on some devices. But without knowing anything about your device, it's hard to answer your question.

For example, on Android 8, you have a menu like this: If you have a search option in your settings, then you can easily search for "default", and you will find it easily.

---
Tags: rooting, camera
---


# Question
Title: Why cant i access my google account on a new phone when I have not factory reset my old phone
I recently bought a LG Stylo 3. It is the EXACT same brand and model of my old phone.

I bought a used phone from Offerup but I know it is not locked. The person who sold me the phone did a factory reset to it right before selling it to me. I called Metro PCS and activated the newly bought phone.

I tried to sign in to my google account and i entered all the information correctly. but it tells me i have to wait 24 hours before attempting to sign in again.

I waited 24 hours and the same message prompted. I waited 72 hours and the same thing.

How can I prove I am the owner of the Google account and allowed to use my new (used) phone?! I am frustrated because Google does not have a service to call or even text.

The phone is not locked, I have all the informations and I can still access my information easily on my old phone. Can I add a new device to my google account before activating it?

Essentially this is not an issue of a used or new phone, it is an issue with my Google account and thus if my old phone (that I am forced to use) breaks then I am completely screwed.

How does Google have a multi billion dollar business if they dont have customer service help??

# Answer
> 0 votes
You mean that you had to wait 24, and 72 hours to be able to logon again to your google Account. **So apparently Google have warn you several times before block your IP (i think).**

Concretely, some information is missing in your tracking subject, namely the types of protections you have set up on your Google Account (confirmation email, confirmation SMS, secret key by Google Authentificator, etc).

It also lacks the essential information to know what the exact error message Google is displaying on the screen.

**In your security center on your phone connected to your Google Account, do you have any alert related to your problem? This famous Google security center is generally accessible via the phone's settings menu.**

**In yet another solution, the user has the ability to create special accesses for third-party applications (allow Outlook to access your Gmail account, allow access to your Google account through a Windows Phone).**

Maybe you could create a particular access for another type of device, Google will then provide you with an access code, it will want to write it down (without spaces), then enter it as a password to be able to access your Google Account without having you blocked again.

We hope this alternative will help you.

---
Tags: google-account
---


title: Extract TWRP backups made with adb

text:
# Question
Title: Extract TWRP backups made with adb
I have a Samsung Galaxy S2 GT-I9100 smartphone with LineageOS and TWRP. Every week I make a backup with the following command:

```
adb backup -f twrp-20170322.ab --twrp boot data system

```

I may optionally use the `--compress` option, too.

Is there a way to extract the `twrp-20170322.ab` backup file with stardard GNU/Linux command line tools? I will also consider installing extra software if needed, but it must be free (as in freedom).

Links:

# Answer
> 2 votes
I have found that TWRP-generated `.ab` files are different from the normal `adb backup` files, so the offset is different from normal `.ab` files. I was able to inspect and extract files using (for example to inspect) the following command:

```
dd if=backup.ab bs=512 skip=1 | tar ft -

```

Apparently, the header may be longer, but it should be aligned with 512-bytes boundaries, so just bump the `skip=` parameter if it can't find it at first.

Note that the file format is defined in twadbstream.h, if you need to dig into this further.

# Answer
> 2 votes
The problem with the naive dd-based approach is that there is metadata every so often in the file. This results in corruption for files of any significant length.

I wrote an extraction tool utilizing twadbstream.h (thanks @anarcat) that I have used to successfully recover large (~10GB) multi-filesystem TWRP ADB backups. twrpabx

# Answer
> 1 votes
Provided you didn't protect it with a password:

```
dd if=$1 bs=24 skip=1 | openssl zlib -d >${1%%.ab}.tar

```
* `dd` is the "Disk Duplicator" (also known as "disk destroyer" in case you confuse its parameters ans switch `if` and `of` ;)
* `bs=23` advises it to use a block size of 24 byte, which we need to…
* `skip=1` skip 1 block of 24 byte (the "Backup header")
* the output gets piped to `openssl` to process and unpack it
* … and the output from that is redirected to a Tarball

From there, you should know your way: simply "untar" (extract) what you want.

Why it uses `$1`? Well, I copied this line from `ab2tar`, which is included with my little tool Adebar you might be interested in as well: creates a nice device documentation, backup scripts and more, all via ADB using nothing but Bash So put that line in a tiny little shell script, and call it:

```
ab2tar twrp-20170322.ab

```

Then find a `twrp-20170322.tar` as result. Of course, this requires `openssl` to be installed on your Linux machine.

---
Tags: adb, backup, linux, twrp
---


title: Nexus 5x Won't Turn On

text:
# Question
Title: Nexus 5x Won't Turn On
My Nexus 5x started bootloading but now it won't turn on at all. I noticed the battery was bulging so I replaced it with a new battery I bought on Amazon. I charged it all night, but it still won't turn on. I've tried different key combinations and holding them for various times, still nothing. I plugged it into my computer, nothing. I installed ADB, and it didn't list my device when I typed `adb devices`

(I have not been able to get it into fastboot mode. If I had been able to, this question would not exist)

Is there any way to salvage my phone? If so, please help!

EDIT: There has been no indication of anything happening since the changing of the battery. i.e. no lights, no indication of charging, nothing at all.

# Answer
Your current phone state is bricked, You have two options

1. You have to flash official firmware using PC (In your case, your phone isn't even getting detected. You may need to install all drivers such as adb, properly and check it once again)
2. You have to go to authorized Service center to get this issue fixed.If you have warranty make this as first priority.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: adb, power-on
---


# Question
Title: Thousands of NlpWakeLock entries eating through my battery when on WiFi, but Location Services are off
I get several thousand entries a day of the NlpWakeLock under Google Play Services (I'm using Wakelock Detector Free). It's draining my battery significantly. I have found it occurs when I'm connected to WiFi (I'm certain about my home WiFi, will check with the university WiFi) and not when connected through mobile data or not connected to the internet at all. I have also ticked off all options in the Location Services sections in Settings. What do you think is going on?

Please, also note that I'm aware of solutions according to which you reduce or completely stop the wakelock. However, before doing that, I would rather try to figure out what's going on. Thank you.

UPDATE: I'm on Android Jellybean.

UPDATE #2: It seems like my download speeds on my phone are very low compared to other times. Just in case, I downloaded an antivirus to do a virus scan. It didn't find anything.

UPDATE #3: I tried disabling find my device, as well as re-adding my Google account and removing two other email accounts. The problem was not solved.

UPDATE #4: I tried the University WiFi, the problem remained.

EDIT: Added the wakelock doesn't appear when offline.

UPDATE #5: I tested it on a third WiFi network, the problem remained.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Well, I tried enabling some of the Location options in Location services, the "Google's location service" and the "Location and Google Search" option, to see if that would fix the issue. I enabled them and the wakelock issue disappeared. I disabled "Location and Google Search" at first and then "Google's location service" and the issue was still gone. All Location Services are now off and the nlpwakelock appears at logical rates. My download speeds are higher as well.

---
Tags: wi-fi, battery-life, google-play-services, location-services, wakelock
---


# Question
Title: Block phone calls which are not saved on mobile
I have a Samsung Galaxy S6. I want to block all calls which are not saved in my contact list: the phone should not ring, but the blocked call should be recorded in the call history so I can call back if I wish.

I have found many apps but they reject calls *after ringing once.* So strangers think he/has not recieved call and cut.

*Is there any help or setting in Android?*

# Answer
Actually there is. Download 360 antivirus. In the its security menu you can block all unknown numbers, fortunately there's a history of the caller and the number of times the number has called. If you are having issues finding it, you can reach out to me.
> -1 votes

---
Tags: applications, contacts, calls
---


# Question
Title: PC doesn't perform copy from it to sdcard/internal storage
I had create a custom ROM and trying now to copy it from my **PC** to my **Lenovo Ideatab A3000-h**, but when connecting the device and try to copy it from my pc to the device, it didn't do the process and gave me the following behavior (forever):

the ROM size is about **2GB**, is there's some way to know what's wrong or a safe way to transfer the ROM rather than this way.

p.s. tried to copy another one with a very near size and got the same result, but copying a small-sized files works fine

# Answer
Use ES File Explorer.

How to use:

1. Go into your PC and set up a shared folder. Use this as reference *https://www.techrepublic.com/blog/windows-and-office/how-do-i-share-folders-in-windows-7-with-the-shared-folder-wizard/*
2. Either place your file to transfer in the shared folder or make the shared folder where your file is located.
3. Now install ES File Explorer on the device and run the app.
4. Go to the quick access menu (3-dash button in the top left corner).
5. Select *Network\>LAN*.
6. Bottom of the screen select *SCAN*, might take a minute to acquire a connection.
7. Select your shared folder.
8. Select your file (long pressing file and select copy at the bottom)
9. Go to the quick access again and select *LOCAL*
10. Pick your destination location from there and tap *PASTE*
> 1 votes

# Answer
I think the SD or micro SD card on Android is formatted as FAT32 as doesn't allow more than 4GB Copy/Paste from Laptop to it, there is a limitation to it.

Simulated the issue on my laptop and got this error message using TeraCopy app using windows 10, after I mounted the micro sd card directly to the laptop without using the tablet.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: sd-card, file-transfer, copy-paste
---


# Question
Title: How to mute an email thread in Google Inbox on Android?
In Gmail email threads can be muted. How can they be muted in Google Inbox mobile?

# Answer
Yes. You can mute an email conversation in Google Inbox. You need to open the email and long press "Done" on your phone. Remember muted conversations will pop back if a reply is addressed to you and no one else, or if you're added to the "To" or "Cc" line in a new message. You may refer to "Mute all replies to an email" section of this help center page: https://support.google.com/inbox/answer/6067561?hl=en
> 3 votes

# Answer
To build on Neal's answer:

* On mobile, long-press on Done
* On web, enable shortcuts (shift + ?), click on the email, type 'm'
> 0 votes

# Answer
On mobile Android, long pressing on the tick also brings up the mute option.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: inbox-by-gmail
---


# Question
Title: LG Aristo 2 and Xbox 360 Controller with USB OTG
I'd like to connect my phone (LG Aristo 2) to an Xbox 360 controller. It is wired, and I've connected it to my phone via USB OTG. It doesn't function currently; no button presses make any action. Is there a way to get this controller working with this phone via USB?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Could this be of any help? I suppose connecting it to an Xbox controller would work if you can use any other controller. Does the LG Aristo work with gamepads, if so how can I connect it too the ípega?

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


title: before I factory reset my galany j3

text:
# Question
Title: before I factory reset my galany j3
my daughter has locked herself out of her phone. so before I factory reset her galaxy j3 luna. she's is hoping there's a way I could hook up the phone to a cpu and save her pics & other files?

# Answer
If the phone is locked and you are not able to open it in any other way, (check the lockscreen, sometimes email is an option), then the device content is gone.

You could try this though:

* Take a look into Google photos, sometimes they are backed up there, just search Google photos on your PC.
* They could be in Google drive too.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: backup, factory-reset, photos, locked-out, file-management
---


title: Cant download any other app

text:
# Question
Title: Cant download any other app
My ocean t1 can't install any app except Facebook and whatsapp. It says i have insufficient memory every time i try to install another app yet it has RAM of 1.1GB and ROM 8GB I wonder why?

# Answer
If it's about installing, then ram got nothing to do with it. If it was about opening after installing, then yes, ram could be a problem. You mentioned that you had 8 GB of space, which I could see be the problem. 8 GB space is just not enough today. Even 16 gb struggles to barely install some apps after the OS has been installed.
> 0 votes

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


title: Cookie Alert on Android

text:
# Question
Title: Cookie Alert on Android
Is there a way to block eu cookie alert on android?

Tried Adblock browser - no luck. and i am using a cookie alert blocker on PC, which doesn't work on Android.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Have you looked into this? If this is what you are looking for it can be done inside the chrome browser on Android. It's almost at the bottom.

https://www.howtogeek.com/241006/how-to-block-third-party-cookies-in-every-web-browser/

---
Tags: chrome-for-android, android-versions, cookies
---


title: How to encrypt SD card on Nokia 6.1?

text:
# Question
Title: How to encrypt SD card on Nokia 6.1?
Is there any way to encrypt the SD card on Nokia 6.1?

I didn't find any option to do it. (The current Android version is Android One 8.1.0)

Product page: Nokia 6.1

# Answer
There is no way of doing it with native settings. Alternatives below :

* From Android 6.0 onwards we have wherein the entire memory (phone + ext SD) is treated as one memory unit and is encrypted. It is highly recommended to read the tag wiki and understand pros and cons before doing this (IMHO, it's a rotten idea but that's me)
* Browse through the tools available for file / folder / media encryption from Izzy's app repository and pick your choice
> 1 votes

---
Tags: external-sd, sd-card, encryption, android-one, nokia-6
---


title: Samsung note 3 forgot password

text:
# Question
Title: Samsung note 3 forgot password
How do I open my phone when I forgot my password it keeps saying you going to have to fully reboot the whole phone after so many tries I forgot the password and need help I don't want to wipe my phone

# Answer
I'm afraid there may not be any easy way to get your phone back without losing data. After all, that's the point of password-protecting it.

However, you might be able to mitigate the damage (= retrieve some data before wipe) by doing the following :

1- If you **had activated USB debugging** in the Developers options prior to forgetting your password, you can connect your phone to a computer with a USB cable and access your internal storage using the Android Debug Bridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android\_software\_development#ADB). More precisely, the `adb pull` command would be helpful.

2- If you **had installed an alternative recovery**, such as Team Win Recovey Projet/TWRP (http://twrp.me/), you can boot to the recovery by holding the "volume up" + "home" + "power" buttons at the same time while the phone is off, the release the power button while still holding the other two. From the recovery, you can make a backup of your data. Doing so will allow you to try other, more advanced recovery procedures withou fear of losing your data.

Please note that :

* Wiping your data may not delete your internal storage, so those above options may not be needed at all.
* Both those options require that you took some actions *before* losing your password.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: samsung-galaxy-note-3
---


# Question
Title: i cant enter recovery mode; how do i install my ADB driver?
Here is my issue. I have an LG g Stylo 3 Plus, (T-mobile). I can't get into recovery.

Here's the situation:

1. my **screen is broken** and I have a semi picture. However its unresponsive.
2. I had no need to root this phone before. So device is not **rooted**.
3. I enabled knock code. So I have important calls and texts that I am not receiving.

So I need to use ADB to unlock my phone and also side-load a mirror to pc apk.

I am familiar with ADB commands and have tried everything within my knowledge. I have also done extensive research and yes, I did also using the search bar. Any ideas how to make this show up in adb without entering recovery mode? so just to make this clear. I'm completely lost.

# Answer
> 0 votes
If you display is at least partially usable, you may use a USB/micro-USB adapter to simply **plug a computer mouse** to your smartphone. From there and depending on your screen damage, you may more easily interact with your device.

Also, remember the screen rotation settings : if your ROM allows 360° rotation (i.e. 90°, 180°, and 270°), you should be able to see any part of the screen by turning it on the sides, and/or upside-down.

---
Tags: adb, broken-screen, lg-g-stylo
---


title: understanding bootloader unlocking

text:
# Question
Title: understanding bootloader unlocking
I am trying to understand the rooting procedure in general. I see that 1st stage involves what it termed as "unlock bootloader".

It is described as a method which makes the bootloader capable for using non-manufacture images. If I understand correctly the bootloader, shall not **boot** non-manufacture kernel/ROM unless it is unlocked.

Yet, many rooting are done by just programming the recovery image. But the bootloader is not the recovery image.

So, how can it be that root is gained with just the recover if 1st stage is unlocking bootrom ?

Thanks, ranran

# Answer
> 1 votes
Unlocking the Bootloader is required in some process including unofficial ROM, Kernel,Recovery, etc to avoid Hardbrick or Softbrick caused by non-manufacturer file or data (not integrated with bootloader default information)

It is required if you want to Root your phone by unlocking the OEM in the Developer Settings

# Answer
> 0 votes
From what I understand, unlocking the bootloader allows to boot another image, for instance a recovery tool.

From that recovery tool, it is then possible to mount the `/system` partition in read/write mode (it is normally only available in read mode).

With `/system` now writeable, the "`su`" (= "switch user") utility can be installed in it. This utility is used to switch to root user, who has write access to all partitions.

---
Tags: rooting, bootloader-lock
---


# Question
Title: How can I see what calls were automatically rejected with the "only receive calls from contacts" option?
I've been expecting a call back about a job and I just realized I've had my phone on only receive calls from contacts. Is there any way to recover those past calls or see if someone else has called me?

# Answer
> 1 votes
You could contact your phone provider and ask for a list of all received calls in a given time period.

Since your contact list is on your phone, it means your phone still gets the call, checks if the caller is in your contact, and rings if it's in, or disregards it otherwise.

There might be a log somewhere, but checking with your provider may be easier and/or quicker.

---
Tags: call-history, motorola-moto-g5
---


title: TWRP saying no OS is installed

text:
# Question
Title: TWRP saying no OS is installed
**Device information:**

* Motorola Moto G5 16GB (Cedric)
* Stock firmware, android 7.0
* Custom recovery TWRP 3.2.1-0 (previously 3.1.0-0)
* Bootloader unlocked (obviously)
* Rooted, Magisk v15.0

I was just going to install Xposed framework, but there normal Xposed installer didn't work. I tried to flash the file using TWRP but I got error code 1. No /system partition. When I try to flash other zip files, I get similar error messages. When I exit TWRP it warns me and say: '*No OS installed, are you sure you want to reboot?*' When I reboot to the normal system partition, it just boots back into TWRP, same thing when I turn the device on. If I boot into the bootloader and start the device from there it does work and turn on. Once turned on everything works like it's supposed to, including Magisk. I can't find anything about this online, but I do know I once messed up my phone and flashed stock firmware using adb and fastboot from my computer.

Before going back to stock, I soft bricked my device by installing PixelExperience ROM twice, first in December, the 12-11-2017 version, later in January I installed the 01-21-2018 version. This one however, didn't work at first. I installed a 64 bit version of TWRP and tried again, after which it worked. After installing it, my device didn't boot. Maybe it could, but I was sceptical since it automatically booted into recovery. But after flashing the stock firmware, it still didn't boot. I figured out on accident that booting via the bootloader did work. Possibly the custom ROM did work, but just didn't boot normally, just like the stock firmware. Link to xda thread for the ROM: https://forum.xda-developers.com/g5/development/rom-t3710800 If you would like to look at the specific versions I installed, I still have them on my computer and will share them if asked. I completely reverted to stock and but it still wasn't fixed.

**Edit:** I just saw this in TWRP, it says the system partition I've been having problems with is 17592186044369 MB, which is about 16777216 TB or 16384 PB. That's not correct of course. Can't seem to find anything about this only, though.

Oh and for my English, it isn't my native language and I'm only 14, so if you have trouble understanding it, please say it so I can explain it in another way.

# Answer
When you just flashed the os, twrp will tell you sure you want to reboot with no os installed, even if you just installed it , i dont know why but reboot system after flashing the OS and your device should boot normally!
> 1 votes

# Answer
The size of your `/system` partition is highly suspicious indeed, which brings me two conclusions :

1. Either your partition is wrongly detected by TWRP, in which case you could double-check that your TWRP version is correct and properly installed (have you checked the checksum after downloading it ?
2. Or your `/system` partition is damaged. In that case, in TWRP, go to Wipe/Advanced Wipe, check `/system`, then Repair (exact path may be slightly different), and boot again.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: 7.0-nougat, twrp, xposed-framework, motorola-moto-g5
---


# Question
Title: What is the play sound item is touched setting?
I was looking in settings, and I saw a weird setting option. In "sounds and vibrations " under settings there something know as

> Play a sound when certain items are touched on the screen

Now my question is, how is this useful, what is this, and what items triger this sound?

Im using a Samsung J3 2016 with android 7.1.1

Sorry if I have mistakes, im using mobile.

# Answer
This option serves as sound feedback when tapping on your screen, for instance on your keyboard, or (usually) when navigating menus/options in the Settings app.

(My opinion : while useful, be wary of not activating that option in public places/transports, as it's usually very irritating for *other* people to hear *your* tapping feedback)
> 0 votes

---
Tags: audio, screen, vibration
---


# Question
Title: AdMob ads in screenshots for Google Play
I am developing an application that has some ads using AdMob. What is the recommendation for screenshots when preparing for the Google Play publishment? Should all the ads be removed before taking the screenshots?

And, maybe this is a programming question for regular stackoverflow, is there an easy way to just remove all of them before running the app in the emulator and taking the screenshots?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I recommend adding placeholders for the ads (a rectangular box with the text 'AdMob ad goes here'). I've seen quite a few other developers do this. It lets the user know there will be ads, and where the ads will be placed in the user interface.

If you remove the ads, and then the user gets your app and it shows ads, expect negative reviews. By disclosing ahead of time that your app has ads, you stand a better chance of not having as many negative reviews for having ads.

---
Tags: google-play-store, ads
---


# Question
Title: After HR I get this error: com.google.process.gapps was interrupted
Lately I have had some problems with my Asus Zenpad 7, a strange message:

> "Unfortunatly com.google.process.gapps was interrupted"

which doesn't stop appearing, my use of the tablet is now limited to what I can do in the miliseconds I have between messages.

I tried many things such as reinstalling Play Store and Google Services, cleaning cache and reactivating the download manager but nothing worked.

Therefore I decided to hard reset, in fact I clicked two options on the Restore Mode of Zenpad 7: Wipe Cache and Wipe Data/Factory Reset, but the messages keep appearing.

I have the tablet rooted using KingRoot, and it may be something I have done while playing with Play Store patches (don't know what, I was just seeing what Lucky Patcher had).

Any suggestions?

# Answer
> 0 votes
Well, sorry to the moderators if they have to do something but as I don't know how to finish this things when the answer is in the comments just to say I did like @esQmo\_ said and flashed the firmware from asus page and everything ok.

---
Tags: crashes, google-play-services, google-apps, force-close
---


# Question
Title: Should Factory Reset return the phone to the original version Android installed on it?
I tried factory resetting a Samsung Galaxy S6. To my surprise, it left Android 7.0 on it, and didn't reset it to Android 5, which is what was originally installed from the factory.

Is this normal? Is there a way to make factory reset force the phone to return to the original factory ROM?

## UPDATE

For those curious as to why I would want to return to the original factory ROM, it's because when I take photos (even after a Factory Reset), I sometimes get a "Server Error". I'm thinking that perhaps a bad ROM update is causing this issue, as I've already had the camera replaced by Samsung.

So I was interested in returning to the original factory ROM, and then upgrading it again to the latest version.

# Answer
Factory reset only delete user data (userdata partition) and restore settings to the default values, meaning every settings will be restored to the factory state. This doesn't apply to the system, (firmware/ROM) which remains untouched.

By original factory ROM, do you mean the one the phone came with? This can be done by downgrading the phone firmware: flashing lower version firmware (with a lower android version).

Not all device support downgrading though, since earlier versions can have bugs, security holes, etc... Many device makers such as HTC, Huawei, Motorola (Lenovo)... don't allow downgrading.
> 4 votes

# Answer
> Is this normal

Yes. See answers here and the linked dupe question Upgraded my phone from 1.6 to 2.2 Android version, if I restore "Factory Settings", which version it will be?

> Is there a way to make factory reset force the phone to return to the original factory ROM?

No. You would need to downgrade manually which may not always be possible as bootloaders are designed to prevent downgrading by OEMs (including Samsung). Cursory search shows it's possible for your device from Nougat to Marshmallow but you ate looking at Lollipop which makes it more unlikely
> 3 votes

---
Tags: 5.0-lollipop, factory-reset, 7.0-nougat, rom, samsung-galaxy-s-6
---


title: Force desktop version of websites

text:
# Question
Title: Force desktop version of websites
How to force desktop version of websites ?

Changing the user agent of the browser is useless.

Many sites steal your resolution info to shove the mobile version down your @$$

How to overcome that ?

I use Opera browser, for information sake. Altough I suppose the fix lays outside of the browser

Got Xposed

# Answer
Launching browser in desktop mode is related to the browser and not something that needs to be tweaked in Android OS. I have no idea for Opera, but for :

. Chrome - see How to make Google Chrome definitely remain as the desktop version?

. Mozilla has Desktop by default add-on
> 1 votes

# Answer
Brave Browser allows one to force the desktop version. The setting is under settings-\>site settings.

Unfortunately it is missing per site choosing of desktop/mobile versions
> 0 votes

# Answer
Well..using Android 7 and the latest Chrome version.. you just need to open the web site http://m.version.com...

Then using the optios on the rigth top address bar you select the option Desktop Site...then the page is open in its original desktop layout as http://www.version.com...

Once in the desk top version, you just create the short cut of this page by adding it to the home screem..by selecting the option Add to Home screen in the address top rigth options menu...

Once the system add it to the home screen it just copy the actual address of the page added..which will be the desktop version..www.version.com..

So now every time you need to access the page, using this short cut, it will be in ist original layout www.version.com..

However, if you pretend to use this option to every page you view..it wiil no be a solution since you will end with a crowded home page...probably many pages to surfe the wanted page. Taking in consideration that most of the home pages hold at least 30 shortcut icons.....too many to be good.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: browser
---


# Question
Title: AppMgrIII doesn't uninstall android bloatware - only disable
I have an old LGLS660 with 4 MB internal memory making install of new apps almost impossible - added MicroSD card to expand by 16 GB - rooted successfully with kingoroot.

So I d/l this app I was able to move some apps but not uninstall the android ones I don't use which was the entire point of all this fiddling.

How should I get rid of the unwanted apps?

# Answer
after looking at KINGOROOT more carefully I realized it has built in tools to remove the android apps. So I uninstalled this program b/c it was not necessary.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: bloatware
---


# Question
Title: Does an Android Factory Reset also clear the cache partition?
In researching a possible answer to this question about "Server error occurred. Restart Camera." while taking photos on the Samsung Galaxy S6, I read this article.

The article talks about wiping the cache partition via Android System Recovery and performing a Factory Reset.

Question: Does an Android Factory Reset also clear the cache partition? Or does it only clear the data partition?

# Answer
> 3 votes
Yes, a factory reset clear's the cache, dalvik cache, along with the user data.

```
<string name="factory_reset1">Wipes Data, Cache, and Dalvik</string>

```

The information on factory reset is hidden in the Source code.

---
Tags: factory-reset, camera, partitions, samsung-galaxy-s-6, cache
---


# Question
Title: After programmatically setting the resolution through an app, how can I make the device remember the new setting?
So I'm setting the resolution by editing system files. This has been the only way that works for me. More preciesly I issue this command:

```
echo 1080p60hz > sys/class/display/mode

```

to the device's termninal. This succesfully changes the resolution to 1080p60hz or to a different value if it's issued. However after restart the device returns to its previous resolution.

Does nayone know how to make it remember the new resolution? Probably another file needs to be edited but I haven't found out which.

# Answer
> 0 votes
Several options:

* modify the boot image accordingly, or
* use `init.d` scripts if your device supports them (if not, there are some apps to achieve that). Or,
* use an automation app to do that on BOOT\_COMPLETED (e.g. tasker supports that, e.g. running a script on BOOT\_COMPLETED – called "device start" there IIRC).

---
Tags: applications, terminal
---


# Question
Title: Separate ringtone for calls from numbers not in the contact list?
Good old Siemens phones had a feature that allowed you to set a single ringtone for all calls coming from your contacts, and a single ringtone for all calls coming from numbers not in your contact list. Can it be done with stock Android 2.2, a manufacturer-specific distribution, or with an app?

# Answer
Amongst the many features it lists, WhoIsIt claims to have support for separate ringtone and vibrate pattern for Unknown Callers.

See if that helps.
> 3 votes

# Answer
If you are already using Tasker you can make your phone check for the availability of the incoming call number in contact list. If not available, it can be made to play a special ring tone.

This is explained here. The content of the same is reproduced here as well:

> **Different Ringtone for Unknown Callers:** I missed my old Windows phone feature where I had a special ringtone for anyone NOT in my contact list, so I recreated it. Unfortunately my Galaxy S2 seems to have a lot of quirks about the way it handles the ring of incoming calls, so this pair of profiles is more complex than they otherwise would have to be. Also, on my phone I actually hear both my default ringtone and the "unknown caller" ringtone simultaneously (despite setting the ringer volume to 0 in the Task, it keeps ringing loudly).
>
> Anyway, to use this you will have to modify the "Unknown ringtone" task so that the "file" in the second action points to a valid file on your phone (mine points to an mp3 of cicada).
>
> The "unknown caller start" profile specifies that when an incoming call is not in your contact list, to start playing a special ringtone audio file, and to stop playing it (by calling the "unknown ringtone stop" task) after you ignore or pick up the call. Since on my phone the sound kept playing if I picked up (it successfully stopped playing if I ignored the call) I added a second profile "unknown caller stop" which actually stops the ringtone playing when you're in a call (after you pick up).
>
> You could easily modify it to play a special ringtone under different circumstances by altering the context of the "unknown caller start" profile. Currently it has caller equal to "!C:ANY" (not equal to any contact), but you could use a pattern like "077\*/Geoff\*" to activate this profile if either the caller's number starts with 077 or is a contact whose names starts with Geoff.
> 1 votes

# Answer
While not quite what the OP asked, a good defense to the current deluge of telemarketing calls is to set your phone to only ring for telephone numbers in your contacts. For those who don't want to do this across the board, you may also customize when this setting is applied.

Android 5.0 (Lollipop) allows you to set this in *Interruptions*. Tap the 'Call/messages from' link and you can restrict this to just the people in your contacts list. (Settings =\> Sound & Notification =\> *Interruptions* =\> Call/messages from =\> *Contacts only*)
> 0 votes

# Answer
There is a new app that lets you assign a ringtone for private numbers, block them and more - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.blondy.privatone
> 0 votes

---
Tags: contacts, ringtone
---


# Question
Title: Why is there no internet connection only for specific apps?
My internet browsers, and most apps on my phone work fine, but specific ones: Sync pro, McDonalds, Pocket Casts, Audible, and Snapchat have weird semi-functionality. I know I'm connected to wi-fi and mobile data because a majority of the apps work, however these listed do not. I also can confirm that the services are not down because I have confirmed they work on a friend's device.

# Answer
This could be caused by a difference with your device and the server's current time. Go to

```
Settings → System → Date & Time

```

Make sure the Automatic date & time setting is enabled.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications, wi-fi, mobile-data
---


# Question
Title: How to simulate a slow internet connection on an Android phone
I basically use internet using wifi which provides a very high speed internet and LAN connection. I would like to simulate a slow speed internet and LAN connection to understand how my web site works on slow speed. Is there any app that I can install on the android phone and simulate it?

# Answer
There is no such setting on Android phones, but you can use the Emulator for this. Install the Android SDK from developer.android.com and launch it. On the DDMS view undet the `Emulator control` tab, you'll find the following options:

After you have created an emulator and ran it, you can set these values according to your preferences and test how different networks affect your site.
> 7 votes

# Answer
When using Emulator is not an option for testing certain functionality (frequently), our team hot-spots for physical Android devices with an iOS device and uses the Network Link Conditioner on that. Obviously, for some this isn't an option, but it works very well and is easy to implement.
> 2 votes

---
Tags: wi-fi, internet, lan
---


# Question
Title: Impossible to format corrupted SD card formatted as internal storage
I see lots of questions about recovering data from corrupted SD card formatted as internal storage, that's not my case. I want to FORMAT this SD card to be able to use elsewhere.

For some reasons the card become read-only so it is impossible for me to make any changes. While on the phone I tried to switch the card from internal memory to external. It didn't work. The only option I had was to forget the card, and so I did. Now even with gparted on linux, I'm not able to format the card. I tried also to change the permits with

`sudo chmod -R 777 /dev/sdb`

and other different commands like

`sudo mount -o remount,rw /dev/sdb`

all without luck.

What else can I do? It seems impossible to reset this card.

Ps. the lock on the SD adapter is in the correct position

edit1: I've used `sudo badblocks -wsv /dev/sdb` no errors found, but not luck, the partitions are still there (here how to use badblocks https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/badblocks). The process took around 10 hours for a 64Gb card.

edit2: after asking help to bunsenlabs.org these things came out. At the moment I can't try them because I don't have the hardware required but my gut and my common sense tell me that it's the right path.

links:
https://github.com/Nephiel/sdlocker-tiny
https://github.com/BertoldVdb/sdtool

# Answer
> 1 votes
It sounds like the other answer of the FAT being corrupt is likely, I would try "zeroing out" the card...

First, verify the device. It will be something like /dev/sdX or similar, **make absolutely sure you know this device is correct**. Then, in Linux open terminal and enter the following command:

```
$ sudo dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sdX bs=8192

```

Substituting the correct device name for /dev/sdX.

***DO NOT** interrupt this process or it could possibly brick the SD card.*

Once it has completed, eject and remove the card. Wait a few seconds then reinsert the card in the card reader. After this, open `gparted` (or your partition manager of choice) and create a new FAT and partition. In gparted, this is accomplished by selecting Device, then Create Partition Table from the toolbar menu, I would recommend using `msdos` as the partition type. Then after that process completes, select Partition - New, and change the File System to fat32 (or whatever is appropriate for your card) and click Add. Then Apply (the "return" arrow in the menu bar).

Once this has been completed, remove the card and reinsert it, it should be readable in Linux, Windows, and most other operating systems.

# Answer
> 0 votes
That sounds as if the FAT might have some kind of error. The card automatically gets mounted read-only, and no matter how many times you go into settings and try to unmount/remount the card, it is to no avail.

In Windows, you can just insert the card into PC, right click on its Properties/Tools/Check and check it against possible errors and automatically fix them. Or you can also use any file system checking tool of your choice.

---
Tags: internal-storage, sd-card, adoptable-storage
---


# Question
Title: Why in Google Play 10.3.12 I have old layout?
I have `Google Play 10.3.12-all [0] [PR] 198814133` on Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 (with MIUI 9.5) and earlier I had the new layout of Store, but now I see that the old one came back.

Is this related to uncertified/rooted device?

I searched internet but I didn't find any answers.

# Answer
Have you tried reinstalling Google play services?

https://www.google.dk/amp/s/www.androidpit.com/install-google-play-services-apk%3famp=true

Although I would like to point out that sometimes Google play store indeed does change some functions. Sometimes I see the downloads as text, sometimes I see it as an icon.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Google is very fond of doing server-side switches and a slow rollout to measure the reactions of people to redesigns. It does not have anything to do with being rooted or having your bootloader unlocked.

I'm thinking that it's just based on probability - between ROM flashes on my devices, one of them will occasionally get the new Play Store UI. Don't sweat it.

If you liked the new layout, there's nothing you can do to get it back except to wait for the inevitable wider rollout.
> 0 votes

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


# Question
Title: Microsoft Teams for Android "not compatible" on Samsung Galaxy S8?
I have Samsung Galaxy S8 on Android 8. I try and install MS Teams for my organization, but I get the message "Your device is not compatible".

Is there anything I can do?

# Answer
You could always try downloading the APK from APKMirror. The site is safe.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: google-play-store, samsung, installation, microsoft-teams
---


# Question
Title: How to delete downloaded files on Android TV
I have a Sony Bravia TV with Android.

When trying to install a new app from the Play store it says I have to free up some space, as my storage is full. When checking storage in the settings, it says the cca 5.5GB are in the `Downloads` folder. But I have no option to delete it, as there is nothing like a file manager. I also cannot download any file manager, or cleaner etc. as it won't install anything, cause the storage is full. Any ideas how to solve this?

# Answer
Although there seemed to be enough space (0.9GB) to install a small file manager app (about 30MB), I had to: \- clear caches from several apps \- deleting stored data from several apps \- uninstall some default app updates After that I got about 1.6GB of free space, and just then it allowed me to install a File manager, where I was able to browse to the Download folder and remove unnecessary data.

I don't think this is a real solution, there must be another way, but this was the way that worked for me.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Navigate to settings -\> Storage then clear the cache it may give you save space to install any of the file manager and delete the files which are not needed.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: internal-storage, file-management, android-tv
---


# Question
Title: Use of "Mounted /system" with secret key combinations in recovery;
I just discovered that after pressing a secret key combination in recovery mode, the log below shows a message "Mounted /system". What's this used for? Thank you!

# Answer
> 1 votes
`mount` option im recovery mode allows you to mount a partition , like `SYSTEM` or `DATA` etc. Like you would do with a computer drive. This allows you to modify anything in that partition. Because when you boot in recovery mode, the other partitions are not mounted, you cannot see data or edit them.

The `mount /system` in the stock recovery allows to mount the system for some reason. I'm sure it has to do something with debugging.

---
Tags: recovery-mode, 5.1-lollipop, amazon-kindle-fire-hd
---


# Question
Title: Google Drive to Instagram File Location?
I have a Samsung Galaxy S6 with Android 7.0 that had about 29GB of 32GB memory full. I then tried to post a large video file (3+GB) from Google Drive over to my Instagram, but it got stuck on Instagram's "loading" screen for quite a while. I thought maybe the system was hanging, so I backed out and closed all my phone apps. Since then, my phone's file storage went to 100% full, and I can't find that video file anywhere on my system to delete it.

Is there a way to find where that file is to delete it? It's not showing in My Files, it's not showing as a hidden file, and it's not showing under any file management apps that I've tried on Google Play. I know that this is the file that's causing the error, but I can't find it to delete it. If you have any recommendations, let me know.

Thanks!

# Answer
> 0 votes
This is an outright guess, but the first thing to check is to clear the cache of both apps. Go to the **Settings** app, then **Apps**. Select the Instagram app from the list, then **Storage** and **Clear cache**. Do the same for the Google Drive app.

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


# Question
Title: Samsung Galaxy emitting constant beeping sound
My Galaxy (A8) is emitting a constant beeping sound every few seconds. I tried the following, per various online suggestions:

1. Wiping the cache (by entering into recovery mode)
2. Closing all applications
3. Reset the device
4. Update the firmware (there was a recent FOTA)

Any suggestions as to the cause or the ways to solve?

# Answer
> 1 votes
After further investigation, the issue turned out to be that a card with an NFC chip was interacting with the NFC receiver in the phone.

While there were no open applications, this still caused a constant beep every few seconds. Removing the card, or disabling the NFC, both solved the issue.

---
Tags: samsung, audio, nfc
---


title: How to enable Google Keyboard?

text:
# Question
Title: How to enable Google Keyboard?
Following this suggestion I have disabled `Google Keyboard` application. My entire system has crashed and upon restart, I can't see that application in application list, so I could reenable it.

How to restore `Google Keyboard`, so it would start appear again in `Settings > Apps > All`?

# Answer
All disabled apps are listed on `Settings > Apps > Disabled`, where you can re-enable any of it.

If for some reasons or in certain situations, `Disabled` tab does not appear (like in my case) and restarting device does not help, then you can open menu in `Apps` (three dots in right top corner) and select `Reset app preferences`.

After confirming all your disabled apps become enabled again.
> 1 votes

# Answer
I found it. Go to Apps and tap the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Show system". There's the Gboard now.
> 0 votes

---
Tags: applications, settings, keyboard
---


# Question
Title: What is HTTP and socket in opera mini and what is the difference between them?
What is the HTTP and socket option in android version of opera mini? There is two options: HTTP and Socket/HTTP

The default is HTTP and Socket/HTTP. In addition what is the different between these two options?

# Answer
> 1 votes
The socket connection keeps the connection to the sites. The HTTP selection will search for the site, each time searching for the site's IP address.

If you can't get a connection through the socket then switch to HTTP. This choice is available when you’re using extreme-savings mode; use the "O" button and go to the savings summary.

The Socket/HTTP browser setting is faster and more cost efficient, whereas HTTP is a fallback when your operator does not support socket/HTTP.

---
Tags: proxy, opera-mini
---


# Question
Title: How can I get the Google Calendar app to sync more often?
I'm new to Android and am having an issue where the Google Calendar app seems to only sync with my Google Account every 3 or 4 days. This is a real pain as I often miss appointment and reminder alerts that I set via my desktop.

Is there a way to have this sync more frequently?

# Answer
> 0 votes
it sounds like you might have "limits" set on your "background data". try enabling instead of restricting it.

---
Tags: google-calendar
---


title: Increase vibrate strength

text:
# Question
Title: Increase vibrate strength
The vibrate strength of my Galaxy Nexus is incredibly weak. When I have the phone in my pocket I simply don’t feel the vibrate for incoming calls at all, which defeats its purpose. I’ve missed more than one important phone call due to that.

Is there a way to increase the strength? I haven’t found anything relevant in the settings.

# Answer
AFAIK, the vibrator motor that are used in the phones are called Q-Coin motor as they are in a shape of a coin. They are of permanent magnet type accepting two leads for positive and negative DC voltages. The circuitry that operate this motor just can switch on the motor for a specific period of time and can change its rotation direction. All other parameters of vibration are set by motor's design.

Hence, for your need the amplitude of the vibrator motor has to be increased to make you aware. And unless the motor itself is replaced, this can't be done in my opinion.

This is a specification of such a motor and you can see it's details.

**UPDATE:** After searching Google, I stumbled on more info about these motors. With that information, it seems that there are two types of such motors. One being fitted with an eccentric rotating mass and another being a linear actuator (working more like a speaker). The article about linear actuator says that this is the present trend and beautifully explains how the motor works.

If the Nexus device that is in question is vibrating at its maximum amplitude, then there is no way any software component to increase its amplitude. Other way, if device is NOT vibrating at its maximum, then by increasing the applied voltage there is a possibility to increase the amplitude.

Thanks to @Konrad Rudolph who made me to know more about this motor.
> 10 votes

# Answer
Just install - Contact Vibrate

From the description:

> Set a different vibration for each of your contacts and know who is it.
>
> *Set a different a vibration for each of your contacts*
>
> Know who is calling or texting you, just feeling it !
> When you receive a phone call or a text message (SMS or MMS) Contact Vibrate will respond vibrating differently for every contact you have defined. If this particular number or contact has no vibration set a master vibration will be called by default.
> 5 votes

# Answer
No easy way - you'll need to install a custom kernel like GLaDOS or Trinity kernel and the relevant apps for each kernel from the Play Store to adjust settings - one of which will be the vibration intensity.

Check out the relevant threads at XDA.
> 4 votes

# Answer
On my Samsung S6 there is "*Settings \>\> Sound and Vibration \>\> Vibration intensity*" section. Where one can change vibration intensity for calls, notifications, and feedback individually.
> 1 votes

# Answer
This seems to be fixed in more recent versions of the Android operating system – it’s hard to quantify but it appears that with the update to 4.2.1 the Galaxy Nexus saw a substantial increase in vibrate strength.
> 0 votes

# Answer
AFAIK, It's not easy to change the vibration motor in the phone. The vibration motor used in your phone called coin type vibration motor. The G force for this motor is very low. If you want to enlarge the vibration, you can use an LRA for replacement,which is also called linear vibration motor
> 0 votes

---
Tags: settings, samsung-galaxy-nexus, vibration
---


# Question
Title: How do I know If my phones Bootloader is locked or not?
I want to flash TWRP & SuperSU to take a backup, but I read that if you flash TWRP with a locked bootloader it would brick my device & wipe my data, now that would just defeat the purpose. How do I determine if my device bootloader is locked or not?

I have enabled developer options, enabled USB Debugging, there is a option in the menu 'OEM Unlock', what does it do? Does it wipe data?

Device - Samsung Galaxy-J700F

# Answer
> 2 votes
I'm not sure if this directly answers your question. However, here's what I can add:

1. Android phones should display a warning at bootup, informing you that your device's bootloader is unlocked and that it cannot be trusted. This is the default behavior for all modern Android phones. If you do not see any such warning, then your device is most likely still locked.
2. The OEM unlock setting in developer options should fade off (and get disabled) when the bootloader is unlocked. Here's a screenshot of how it looks on my phone:

So, since both of the above show that your device is not unlocked, I will go with it.

And AFAIK, trying to flash TWRP on a locked bootloader would actually fail, instead of bricking the device. That's all the purpose of a locked bootloader - to avoid tampering of the system.

You will actually have to look for a way to backup your data without the bootloader unlock. Since, if you decide to unlock it now, all data will be erased. I believe XDA-Developers forum will be a good place to look for information.

**Edit:** Try if you can boot the TWRP, instead of flashing. And then flash SuperSU from TWRP. Things like these were possible on older devices.

# Answer
> 1 votes
to just answer your question, and without needing any software, you can start your phone (or tablet) in bootloader mode by holding the volume key and the power key from an OFF state. the software will then tell you the info you want.

---
Tags: 6.0-marshmallow, backup, bootloader, titanium-backup, samsung-galaxy-j7
---


# Question
Title: moto g4 plus booting back to twrp on installing supersu or magisk
I have a moto g4 plus android 7.0 for which I have unlocked the bootloader and I have flashed twrp and ran root.bat. After installing supersu, I have wiped the cache and dalvik and tried rebooting the system but it takes the phone back to the twrp main page. I have tried to start through the bootloader menu too but the same thing happens there too. I have also tried echo systemless and magisk. how do I boot back into android 7 with root privileges?

# Answer
Clearly your changes have broken your Android system partition. You need to re-flash the stock Android system image for your phone.
> 1 votes

---
Tags: root-access
---


title: adding MRLs to a playlist VLC

text:
# Question
Title: adding MRLs to a playlist VLC
I am having trouble making a playlist for MRL networks streams. Each time I open a new network stream it creates a new playlist and the previous stream is no where to be found (the history is overwritten with the most recently opened stream as well) What steps do I have to take to create a MRL playlist? Do I need to store the playlist in a file somehow? I have been playing with the app for days and I cant find the answer here (https://wiki.videolan.org/Documentation:Android/) either

# Answer
> 1 votes
I was struggling too to get a working playlist with VideoLAN on Android. Apparently the app didn't (and probably still does not) provide a way to have a playlist which doesn't vanish after shutting down the app I came up with a crude solution to create a file with a pls extension on the Android devide and have VLC load it. Still I had to do this on every launch of the application, but it worked. I describe details at http://vlc-playlist-android.blogspot.com/ and hope other could benefit from it. If VLC itself now provides a working playlist, please let me know in the comments there, or here.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Input the MRL where VLC android asks in order to play the stream. Once playing at the bottom of your android screen keep your finger pressed on the stream being played. VLC player for android then goes to this screen where it shows the stream being played at the top of the screen and below it a list of your media files on your phone... to the top right hand side tap the menu and there it gives you the option to save the playlist for the current stream you are listening to. Krykie!! it took me a bit to figure that out and absolutely no thanks to the help files on the official VLC site what so ever... oh well.

---
Tags: audio, vlc
---


# Question
Title: How does a tablet automatically power on when a power source is connected?
Please imagine a car situation where you have an Android tablet:

http://content.worldcarfans.co/2014/11/24/thumbnails/24486128385597.hl2.jpg

And the following working rules (as expected in most cases):

* If the car is *OFF*, tablet is *OFF*;
* If the car is *ON*, tablet is *ON* (automatically);

I have been reading about enabling *auto power on mode* when the charger is connected: most tablets have the `playlpm`, `lpm`, or a specific file that displays the battery charging animation. The trick is to **overwrite** these files and **force** a boot.

Furthermore, I have also checked and tested Tasker, where I was able to achieve this behavior only when USB is connected.

However, I would like to know if there's anyway we can do it if the tablet **has no battery attached on it**.

Would this same approach work?

# Answer
> 1 votes
I managed to solve this situation only by **removing** the battery.

Turns out that most tablet's **automatically power on** when they're directly connected to an **external** power source.

# Answer
> -2 votes
Solved simply by removing battery and shorting power button on lenovo a2020

---
Tags: boot, automation
---


# Question
Title: How not to display the "Change languages" on Gboard
I just updated Gboard and I only use two languages. However after this update, I have to press twice and choose which languages I want to swap to when obviously it's the other one... Is it possible to only long press the space bar as before to automatically change to the other langauge? this is such a waste of time otherwise :/

# Answer
> 0 votes
You can change languages directly from the **language switch key** (the one with the globe symbol netx the space bar). If it is not displayed, then go to `Settings > Languages & Input > Gboard > Preferences.`

From here toggle the switch for various settings including number row and emoji and obviously language switch key.

---
Tags: languages, gboard
---


# Question
Title: Does Android USB Shared connection runs a DHCP Server?
I'm aware of USB Shared connection of android and I've been using it to give connection to my computer.

Also I've an old domestic router which has RJ45 and wireless interfaces. I've been thinking about connecting my phone directly to the router using an USB-RJ45 converter, in order to give internet to the computer based on the RJ45 switched interface of the router, plus some other wireless devices using WiFi.

So my question is: **does Android USB Shared connection runs a DHCP Server?**

Because in case it does, everything will run fine, but if it doesn't, I'm afraid it would only support one device to give it an IP.

I've found that in cyanogenmod does, but dunno in Android.

# Answer
### Yes. Definitely.

What a DHCP server basically does is not only dynamically allocating IP addresses, but auto-configuring some IP settings as well, for example DNS servicing.

Judging from a client's (let's say, your computer) behavior, it surely runs a DHCP server. If not, you'll have to configure IP settings (static IP) and enter DNS server addresses and Gateway address manually. But you don't have to do these by yourself, so you can confidently infer that a DHCP server is working.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Your computer most probably runs a dhcp client service, which requests an ip address from a dhcp server. In most home networks this is commonly the router, who in turn runs a dhcp request against the dhcp server from your isp. With that request, also information about the name servers is obtained, which is than often passed on, using the dhcp mechanism to the local network, so clients can contact the external services directly. In case of tethering, your phone will provide the same functions as your router would, getting ip information from the mobile network through it's dhcp service and provide dhcp services to your Wi-Fi connection. I've noticed in earlier days, that my computer would sometimes not get an ip address. In that case, using a fixed ip of 192.168.43.10 (or any other last digit between (2-254) and a netmask of 255.255.255.0, gateway 192.168.43.1 would work
> 0 votes

---
Tags: tethering, dhcp
---


# Question
Title: What is the Virtualizer sound effect in music players and how does it work?
I use PlayerPro to play music on my smartphone.

In PlayerPro there are "Sound Effects", which are similar to the DSP manager. One of the sound effects is the Virtualizer.

When I enable the Virtualizer, even at 1%, it really changes the way the music feels. The audio becomes more echoey, and it sounds to me like I'm closer to the music. It gives me a live concert feeling.

When I played with the Virtualizer level I noticed there's a major difference between 0% and 1%. The difference from 1% to 100% is also noticeable, but it's not even close to the drastic difference when the Virtualizer is disabled compared to when it's enabled.

What does the Virtualizer do? What is it for, really?
How does the Virtualizer work?
How does this sound effect simulate a live concert sound (at least that's what it feels like to me)?

# Answer
> 1 votes
> What's really the purpose of the Virtualizer?

I am unable to understand why you've asked this. Virtualizers make music cool. Using it, users can tweak music listening experience. It enables you to experience live concert in a car, for example.

> The difference from 1% to 100% is also noticeable but it's not even close to the difference when the Virtualizer is disabled compared to when it's enabled.

Its because your speakers aren't that powerful. Just connect your device to a high-end speaker/headphone & feel the changes.

> How does the Virtualizer work?
> How does this sound effect simulate a live show music (atleast that's what it feels like to me)?

Demystify yourself when you are at a live concert. Your ear drums interface the air with special vibrations (sound waves) which gives you that feeling. At home, air hitting your ear drum doesn't have that specialty of live show. What virtualizer does is that it vibrates the air (hitting ear drum) in special way. In short, virtualizers just alter the sound in a special way.

How these algorithms work in background is out of scope of this site. To understand them, you need a strong background in Computer Science and Acoustics (Physics dealing with mechanical waves). Its thing of research. I can bet that even developers of PlayerPro haven't invested time & money to develop it. They have just used openly available libraries developed by research organizations, universities etc.

# Answer
> 7 votes
In the description of PlayerPro in Google Play this was mentioned:

> STEREO WIDENING effect (virtualizer)

and a quick search on Wikipedia about what Stereo Widening is:

> # Stereo widening
>
> Widening of the stereo image can be achieved by manipulating the relationship of the center signal M and the side signal S: M = (L + R)/2; S = (L - R)/2. A positive part of the side signal S is now fed into the left channel and a part with its phase inverted to the right channel. Some boomboxes feature such a process.
>
> Another way of looking at this same effect, without extrapolating a center and side signal from the left and right signals, is to simply add the left signal, slightly attenuated and phase inverted, into the right channel and vice-versa. Taking this a step further, a small delay (20-100ms) can be added to the inverted signal before mixing it back in to the original for output, adding a slight reverberation to the effect.

# Answer
> 1 votes
The virutalizer widens the stereo of your speakers) headphones, by emitting what you could call an "Anti-Sound" (this is obviously not a correct name, but it explains what I want to say) to cancel out the left stereo sound in the right stereo speaker. That way it sounds like the stereo is further apart.

---
Tags: audio, music, music-player
---


title: A Real Terminal (Root or No-Root)

text:
# Question
Title: A Real Terminal (Root or No-Root)
I use KUBUNTU on my laptop, but this goes for any Linux distro. I can open a terminal window and type in things like `sudo apt-get update`, `sudo apt-get install packagename.` Is there a terminal that can carry out commands like this on Android? It doesn't have to be "sudo", I simply mean carrying out commands. I use the Galaxy S3, but I doubt it really matter for the question I'm asking.

# Answer
Summing up from the comments:

First you need to understand that updating apps works different on Android than it does on a "normal" Linux distro: There is no such thing as "apt". Though Android has its own package manager (listening to the `pm` command), installs/updates are *usually* dealt with by services/apps like or other . `pm` would rather be comparable with dpkg on Debian-based systems: it can do local installs (i.e. with the `.apk` file already present on the device itself: `pm install` would be the command for that), and a lot of other things.

Apart from that: a terminal app can be compared with a terminal on Linux allright. You get a text-mode "window" where you can execute commands. Most are even similar to those available on Linux, as Android is Linux based: you have things like `cd`, `ls`, `grep`, and more. For details on this, you might wish to take a look at e.g.

A look into our terminal tag-wiki will not hurt either :)

I'd say all terminal apps available for Android should support the above. Some even offer additional features, such as an entire development environment (Terminal IDE), or access to remote servers (JuiceSSH).
> 13 votes

# Answer
There **is** a terminal app which uses "apt" to install packages. Its awesome and has lots of packages ported for arm devices -- Termux & Playstore Link
> 3 votes

# Answer
in present days there is the app "termux" on google play store. it comes with a full unix/linux shell and with apt. anything else should be straight forward then. downside: it does not support items like my Android 4.4.2 based tablet.
> 1 votes

# Answer
Install Terminal Emulator and Busybox in your Android. Terminal Emulator gives command-line window and Busybox APK gives useful commands that are used in Linux like `wget`, `chmod`, `chroot` and more.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Assuming that:

1. Your Android device is rooted;
2. The `su` binary is located at `/system/xbin/su`;
3. The shell binary is located at `/system/bin/sh`; and
4. Your Android device has Terminal Emulator installed.

If all the 4 conditions above are satisfied, then:

* If you want to enter the shell and become root (superuser uid 0) so you can execute commands without uid restrictions, start the Terminal Emulator app and just execute this command:

```
su -

```

In order to disconnect from the uid 0 (exit superuser status), press `Volume -` and `D`, or type `exit` and hit `Enter`
* Alternatively, if you want to **always** start Terminal Emulator as root, then start Terminal Emulator, go to **Preferences**, scroll down to the **SHELL** section, tap the **Command line** option and modify the command so it becomes this:

```
/system/xbin/su -c "/system/bin/sh -"

```

After you change the command, exit Terminal Emulator (close the application) and start it again. Notice how Terminal Emulator's shell interface now shows you `root@something` by default.

If you want to add extra commands to your **rooted** Android system, install BusyBox.

In case your Android device isn't rooted, you still can use Terminal Emulator in order to execute some basic (user) commands such as `blkid`, `cat`, `cd`, `clear`, `cp`, `du`, `grep`, `id`, `ln`, `ls`, `ping`, `sleep`, `uptime` et cetera.
> 0 votes

# Answer
Or you can use Gnu/Root Debian for android (GPlay)
> -2 votes

---
Tags: terminal, command-line
---


# Question
Title: Is system apps and pre-installed apps two different concepts?
I recently started learning android ROMs. I have heard system apps with some special (not root) permissions.

Is there a difference between system apps and pre-installed app when we build a ROM? I those two concepts?

# Answer
> 2 votes
I think I might have been found the difference. According to this link :

> If an app is signed with System Signature, then its not allowed to Disable that app.Also , not all preloaded apps have system signature.

So among the apps within /system/app directory, we have two types of pre-installed apps. System signed with more privileges and normal apps.

# Answer
> 1 votes
Yes and no.

**Just Preinstalled apps** There are some apps your manufacturer might ship that are installed by default on your phone but can be uninstalled just like regular apps. They work technically just like any app you would install usually. All other system apps are obviously also pre-installed, but treated differently:

**System apps** A couple of the apps shipped with the device may be installed as system apps. That can only be done by the manufacturer (on non-rooted phones) because they need to be signed from them, and the apps can not be uninstalled, just disabled. Otherwise, they behave the same as other apps.

**System apps with elevated privileges** Can also just be installed by the manufacturer, and only disabled. But these apps have the internal detail of having advanced "system" privileges, which makes them much more powerful. These should usually just be critical system components that need this much access, but some manufacturers still use it for their own apps.

---
Tags: rom, system-apps
---


# Question
Title: Is it possible to receive files on memory card during wifi direct transfer ? Is it possible to change wifi direct send/receive settings ?
Is it possible to receive files on memory card during wifi direct transfer ? Is it possible to change wifi direct send/receive settings ?

Case is like I need a file from another android phone to my android phone but device storage memory is low against size of file but have sufficient of space in memory card, but when the transfer starts a file is copied only to the device.

**EDIT** : Device is not rooted

# Answer
> 1 votes
ES File Explorer used to be by choice for Android phones rooted or not, until the development was lagging and not current.

FX FileExplorer is to me, the best file manager out there. Has everything ES has and more but is also maintained often, updated and secure. I don't 100% remember why I stopped using the former, but I do recall WebDav, FTP, was not great amongst other things. Read "A Short Story of A Fallen King" and the comments. You will read similar sentiments among other users.

Forgot to mention: FX protects your privacy:

* No advertisements
* No tracking of user activity: FX does not ever "phone home"
* Built by NextApp, Inc., a US corporation founded in 2002; all proprietary code was developed in-house.

# Answer
> 0 votes
I use ES File Explorer to transfer huge files (in GBs) between my rooted phone and unrooted Nexus 7 tablet.

When doing a Wi-Fi based transfer (i.e. using send option), ES File Explorer asks for destination in the target device and I can choose where ever I want (in the context of the question, I can choose a path leading to a folder in my external card).

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Tags: 4.2-jelly-bean, settings, file-transfer, wifi-direct
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# Question
Title: What Android version promises changes with regards to fast security patches?
I've heard that an upcoming, or recent version of Android has separated the OS from the hardware specific parts, promising much faster security and minor updates for the user.

What version is this? And are the changes so significant that a buyer should consider waiting until that version is available in phones?

# Answer
> 2 votes
From what you described you probably meant Project Treble.

> The Android 8.0 release includes Project Treble, a major re-architect of the Android OS framework designed to make it easier, faster, and less costly for manufacturers to update devices to a new version of Android. Treble is for all new devices launching with Android 8.0 and beyond.

Per the above quote, any device *shipping* with Android 8.0 or above (Oreo) *must* support Treble. However, devices shipping with a lower Android version and subsequently updated to Oreo are not mandated to support Treble.

As the launch of Android P draws near, almost all newly released devices ship with Oreo, so you don't have to take the factor into consideration; however, if you're eyeing older devices, then be sure to research whether it ships with Oreo, and if not, whether it supports Treble after updating to Oreo.

As for how significant Treble is, personally I'd say not so much. Just because it's easier to do doesn't mean that manufacturers are inclined to do it, especially for lower-end devices that don't bring forth good margin. Also, manufacturers still have to take care of their own skins and additions; carriers still take their time to review updates (and add bloat?) before pushing them out.

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Tags: updates
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# Question
Title: Why WhatsApp spontaneously starts a backup in the middle of the day?
It happens once in a while - I'm using WhatsApp (far from backup hours) and it just starts backing up and not letting me to use the app for several minutes.

The last backup was successful and finished hours before it happened, and after that backup popup message, it didn't backed up to Google Drive as usual - so only a local backup.

My guess was that it's kind of "flushing the buffer" to save the current state, maybe as a result of too much new data since the last backup.

**Why and when does it happen?<br>** Anything to do about it? (Except from killing the app)

Thanks!

**EDIT:** Added two more screenshots. It keeps happening and also with the Google Drive backup.

*Device: LG G5, android 7.0, custom ROM, no root*

# Answer
> 0 votes
I finally think I found out.
It is connected to date/time as aBochur suggested, but it's not that I changed the date/time of my phone or moved between time zones.

## My findings

I have LG G5 and it has a removable battery.
Whenever I takeout the battery and replace it with the second one, when the phone comes up it has an old date/time - can be hours or days before (not sure what's the rule here, maybe previous shutdown?). This, from some, reason triggers a backup on WhatsApp.

**Times after startup:**

* After 2.5m the phone reception is back and fixes the date/time.
* After 5m WhatsApp creates a local backup.
* Sometimes, not figured out when yet, it also triggers the cloud backup. If it will - it will happen (~around) 30m after the local backup.
    + I think it has to do with the time passed from the last cloud backup, but wasn't able to test it deeply yet.

So, the conclusion is there's nothing to do with it, this is how WhatsApp works and it's backup get triggered after it recognizes a date/time change.

This is the notification that **sometimes** WhatsApp shows, there's not a full correlation between this notification appearance and the backup trigger.

* > Your phone date is inaccurate! Adjust your clock and try again.
* Note: I haven't tried anything, this message just appears on those occasions.

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*The answer will be updated if I'll be able to collect more information about this.*

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Tags: backup, whatsapp-messenger
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# Question
Title: Android - Limit app permissions *before* installing app
Whenever I go to change app permissions for on app on my Android, I do it after it has already been installed. Is there any way I can modify those permissions **before** I do the installation?

Update:

With the traditional way a period of time passes, however small, between the time you install the app and the time you update/restrict its permissions. During this period the app could be accessing the data (and uploading to its server) that you are trying to restrict (contacts, identity, etc.). Right?

# Answer
You can't change app settings before the app has been installed.

However if you are concerned about data leakage I would do the following:

1. Download the apk to your device
2. Disable all network connections
3. Install the app
4. Change the app permissions according your preferences
5. Open the app manager and select the just installed app
6. Force the app to quit and delete the app data and caches (just to make sure)

Afterwards you can safely re-enable network access

Anyway, for common permissions the app have to ask before it can be used the first time. Therefore it is unclear to me what permissions you are referring to that could be directly used without that you have explicitly granted access to.
> 3 votes

# Answer
Android permissions are anarchy. You can disable in newer Android versions, but between installation and permission settings adjustment, all your data can be accessed and uploaded to the app's server.
> 1 votes

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Tags: permissions
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