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Summary:
A method of executing the device lock/unlock features of Windows Mobile by using the gestures available in FTouchFlo v1.4.1.
Here's a sample video of it in action courtesy of kidnamedAlbert: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjPxHroy9VU
Current Status:
I've got the basics working on my device right now, and it works quite well. Beta version is now available, where I offer a choice of install methods. Since many users already have FTouchFlo and some version of the "true" HTC Cube application with my TFloCubeCtrl, then all that is needed for this is an update to version 1.2.0 of TFloControl, and an adjustment to the FTouchFlo config file. I also have a stand-alone cab installer for just FTouchFlo and the "slide 2 lock/unlock" capability. Note: there's no cube involved in this one!
Where is it?!
*NEW* CAB installer for TFloControl + FTouchFlo + config for "Slide to Lock/Unlock" with a left-right gesture now available here: http://rapidshare.com/files/128559842/TFloControl_v1.2.0___FTouchFlo_v1.4.1.cab
Be sure to check the install/usage notes in Post #4
If you've already got FTouchFlo v1.4.1 installed, and an HTC Cube using TFloCubeCtrl, then you can just download the new TFloControl.exe and FTouchFlo.config files from the attachments, and follow the directions in Post #4
What's Next?
Currently, configuration of TFloCubeCtrl is through command-line params fed by FTouchFlo. I think this could be made better, and possibly there should be a configuration app ... since all of my FTouchFlo gestures just map to calling TFloCubeCtrl anymore, which nowadays does so much more than just control the HTC Cube!
I'm currently talking with efrost about the possibility of turning TFloCubeCtrl and it's functionality into a plug-in for the newer FTouchSL application.
I wonder what other sorts of features I could build into it as additional parameters. So far I have:
Lock
{no params} - execute the device lock
home - return to the Today screen and then lock
suspend - lock, and then suspend the device
Unlock
{no params} - unlock the device
<milliseconds> - amount of delay between the simulating the left softkey, and clicking the unlock button. I added this in case different devices needed different amounts of lag time based on processor speed. 50ms seems to work quite well on my Kaiser.
Donations:
If you like what I've done, then please ... feel free to donate to me. It definitely helps in keeping me motivated to add new features and answer questions. However, if you find this function useful, you should also consider a donation to efrost ... because without FTouchFlo v1.4.1, this little project would not exist.
Props:
efrost - for making FTouchFlo!
Matt Armstrong - creator of DeviceLock, where I first saw that the unlock process could be automated
wacky.banana - for pointing out the "bug" that clued me in that unlock was possible via FTouchFlo
kidnamedAlbert - for making a video of it in action
Background
While working on a project to bring full HTC Cube finger control to non-Touch devices, I developed an application to work hand-in-hand with efrost's FTouchFlo application. In addition to being able to control the HTC Cube, I also added a few system control functions that you could map to FTouchFlo gestures. One such system control function was the ability to engage the standard device lock, with additional options for returning the display to the home screen, and also for suspending the device. I soon realized that this was a slick was to lock your device, by just sliding your finger across the screen left-to-right. However, this then still left me with the rather lame way of unlocking the device, pressing the left softkey, and then clicking on a button on the screen. I became further annoyed when attempting to unlock the screen in bright sunlight, where it's next to impossible to find the button on the screen (at least for me!).
Where is this going?
One day, I had a small revelation. Someone had previously reported a "bug" with TFloCubeCtrl, whereby you could open up the cube, even when the device was locked. I subsequently added some code to ensure that all functions were disabled if it detected that the device was locked. But while it was reported as a bug ... the indication here was that TFloCubeCtrl would receive calls from FTouchFlo even when the device was locked. I suddenly realized that this meant that I could also add functionality to TFloCubeCtrl to unlock the device, by automating the unlock procedure.
So, does it work?
In fact ... it works just the way I had hoped. Now, with the device on, but locked with the standard WinMo device lock functionality, I can swipe my finger left-to-right, and the device becomes unlocked. You don't even see the unlock screen (on my Kaiser anyway), as it's dismissed so quickly due to the automated unlock.
And why should I care?
Well, I like it because it works well for me, and solves some of the annoyances I've had in the past. Specifically, I like the HTC Home screen ... as I'm used to it's layout, and it has everything there I need. So I like to be able to lock the device with a quick action, and have it revert to the home screen upon locking. And thanks to FTouchFlo, a left-right swipe anywhere on the screen will work (no trying to hit a specific icon). Then, to unlock, just the same swipe again is all it takes. It's a simple action, and can be done anywhere on the screen as long as it's a complete swipe across the screen ... so you don't even need to look at the screen to unlock the device. And best of all, it all works *with* the standard device lock functionality ... so even if you lock with a different method (device lock on today screen), you can still "slide to unlock". Incoming calls work the same as before ... and PIN code input should also still function normally (initial tests have shown this to be true!)
Here are some thoughts I've come up with on possible features:
Specify an X,Y to simulate a mouse click after the Today screen is shown. (In order to ensure a particular tab is also displayed)
Specify a particular application to be displayed before locking, instead of the Today screen
Vibrate when the device is unlocked (DeviceLock offered this when "easy unlock" was enabled)
Specify a particular application to be displayed after unlocking
Installation / Usage Notes
General Usage Warnings -
This app requires FTouchFlo. As such, installing this will subject your device to known FTouchFlo "issues"
Once FTouchFlo is running, it cannot be stopped without a soft reset
While FTouchFlo is running, the Transcriber SIP and Screen Alignment utility cannot be used
Some programs that are "finger friendly" themselves do not work well with FTouchFlo, and should be added to the Exclusions list in FTouchFlo.config. Some common known apps are already in the list.
After a soft reset, you must manually start FTouchFlo before you can "Slide to Lock/Unlock". Alternatively, you can create a shortcut to FTouchFlo in your StartUp folder.
CAB Install Method -
Install the CAB file on your Windows Mobile device
Be sure to install to the Device (not a storage card)
Run FTouchFlo, found under Start->Programs
Perform a left-right slide gesture to lock the device
Perform the same left-right slide gesture again to unlock the device
Enjoy
File Install Method (Advanced Users Only) -
Use this method if you already have FTouchFlo installed, and/or if you have an HTC Cube install already on your device using TFloCubeCtrl
Copy TFloControl.exe into a \Program Files\TFloControl folder
Update your FTouchFlo.config file to reflect something similar to my sample
TFloControl is the new name for the app, replacing the old TFloCubeCtrl (it does more than control the cube!)
Morning Kona. I see you have decided to go public on this, which is great!
A couple of points from me:
One of the things you are going to have to watch out for , as you develop this tool, is getting the tool to work in a consistent and predictable manner with the inbuilt WM6 pin lock facility.
Because I am security conscious, I have pin lock initialise itself half an hour after locking the device either with device lock or Slide-To-Unlock (S2U2). When using S2U2 I have found that if a call comes in after pin lock is engaged, trying to answer the call can cause unpredictable results ranging from the call being successfully answered, to S2U2 to being presented with the pin lock keyboard to unlock the device before the call can be taken, to the call being dropped altogether.
This behaviour became such a pain that I dropped S2U2 altogether in order to get a consistent method of answering calls when the device is locked in this way, ie with device lock and pin lock in operation. I note this is an area you have not tested yet, hence me advising caution here.
Another point from me: I am assuming that your lock will not work unless a version of Ftouchflo is installed? If yes does that mean that people like me who have given up on Ftouchflo and the Cube will not be able to use your tool?
Final point; early days yet but have you thought of integrating your tool with the organic lock invented by someone on here?
Hope you find these points helpful. More than happy to undertake some testing for you if you let me know what is required, etc.
Cheers
WB
will this be a lot like the unlocking mechanism from wm 7 in which you have to slide a certain way so the device unlocks. A bit confused as far as function though. I am glad you are starting a new project...
I can not say how much i'm interested in such software, even though i dont pin lock my device, but i really like to lock it cause it many times make a call or opens and drains the battery without any need..
any way .. i'm waiting .. and i believe it's gonna be great
cheers
WB,
Thanks for the input. So far ... here's what I can tell you:
wacky.banana said:
One of the things you are going to have to watch out for , as you develop this tool, is getting the tool to work in a consistent and predictable manner with the inbuilt WM6 pin lock facility.
Because I am security conscious, I have pin lock initialise itself half an hour after locking the device either with device lock or Slide-To-Unlock (S2U2). When using S2U2 I have found that if a call comes in after pin lock is engaged, trying to answer the call can cause unpredictable results ranging from the call being successfully answered, to S2U2 to being presented with the pin lock keyboard to unlock the device before the call can be taken, to the call being dropped altogether.
This behavior became such a pain that I dropped S2U2 altogether in order to get a consistent method of answering calls when the device is locked in this way, ie with device lock and pin lock in operation. I note this is an area you have not tested yet, hence me advising caution here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since what I've done here is devise a way to use gestures as a way to interact with the standard built-in Windows Mobile locking mechanism, we should be OK here. My initial tests are indicating that everything functions predictably when PIN locking is enabled. My unlock gesture works when the PIN is not yet enabled. And once the PIN screen appears, the unlock gesture basically doesn't do much ... and you have to enter the PIN to access the phone. Incoming calls are unaffected, as the standard WinMo "Incoming Call" screen appears, and a SoftKey press will still answer without requiring an unlock. This is where people's desire for functionality is probably going to differ.
wacky.banana said:
Another point from me: I am assuming that your lock will not work unless a version of Ftouchflo is installed? If yes does that mean that people like me who have given up on Ftouchflo and the Cube will not be able to use your tool?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes ... and no. FTouchFlo is currently required, as this project is intentionally a solution to work with FTouchFlo. However, the cube is not a requirement ... it doesn't even have to be installed.
wacky.banana said:
Final point; early days yet but have you thought of integrating your tool with the organic lock invented by someone on here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have downloaded Organic Lock, and will test it out. My initial thoughts ... are that it should integrate quite well with what I've done here, since it's designed to work with the built-in WinMo device locking. I'll post my results when I get to test it out.
domineus said:
will this be a lot like the unlocking mechanism from wm 7 in which you have to slide a certain way so the device unlocks. A bit confused as far as function though. I am glad you are starting a new project...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps ... I honestly haven't seen what WM7 is offering. In a nutshell, what I've done here will allow you to use any of FTouchFlo's gestures to lock/unlock your device using the built-in WM6 device lock. Current FTouchFlo gestures are up-down, down-up, left-right, and right-left. You basically sweep your finger across the entire length of the screen in one continuous motion. It takes a bit of getting used to, but I get it to recognize my gestures about 95% of the time these days.
solomhamada said:
I can not say how much i'm interested in such software, even though i dont pin lock my device, but i really like to lock it cause it many times make a call or opens and drains the battery without any need..
any way .. i'm waiting .. and i believe it's gonna be great
cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently don't really use the PIN lock feature myself ... but your scenario of the phone accidentally waking up and doing things unintentionally is a big reason I started using the device lock to lock my phone. But when I got annoyed with the unlock procedure, I wrote the "slide to unlock" part, which is really useful (to me). This is really more of a convenience feature that a real security measure. But it makes the device lock/unlock very easy to use. I just put it on my wife's phone, because her phone kept calling people while it was in her purse!
Slide to Answer
I just had a thought ... and tested it out. You can actually "Slide to Answer" as well, when a phone call comes in.
As is true with unlock, the softkey method still works ... however, if the device is currently locked, and a phone call comes in ... if you perform the unlock gesture, TFloCubeCtrl will try to initiate the unlock by pressing the left softkey, which in turn answers the call! It's really a side-effect in this case ... but it works! Interesting ... but it would probably be more useful if I could disable the on-screen buttons, and require either a hardware keypress, or the slide gesture.
Kona_Mtbkr said:
..... It takes a bit of getting used to, but I get it to recognize my gestures about 95% of the time these days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey Kona,
Thanks for the comprehensive response to my points. The tool looks more promising every time I hear from you.
To the point about 95% accuracy this isn't too bad and, from my experience, probably on a par with S2U2. When I was playing with TouchFlo in the early days I found you could increase the consistency of the gestures by changing the sensitivity response or whatever it was called.
When are you expecting to have a beta version of the tool out for testing then?
Cheers
WB
wacky.banana said:
Hey Kona,
Thanks for the comprehensive response to my points. The tool looks more promising every time I hear from you.
To the point about 95% accuracy this isn't too bad and, from my experience, probably on a par with S2U2. When I was playing with TouchFlo in the early days I found you could increase the consistency of the gestures by changing the sensitivity response or whatever it was called.
When are you expecting to have a beta version of the tool out for testing then?
Cheers
WB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes ... changing the sensitivity settings was key for really making FTouchFlo useful. It's a balancing act between the pressure sensitivity, and the gesture delay ... which controls how long FTouchFlo waits before deciding that you're not actually doing a gesture, so it forwards the input on to the OS. It makes it a bit trickier to try to use scrollbars or to do other dragging operations (like selecting multiple items) when FTouchFlo is in use. Not sure if FTouchSL has improved on any of these items.
As for release ... we'll see how the weekend goes. It'll be easier for me to post the new app, and a sample config for those who already have FTouchFlo and an HTC Cube install with TFloCubeCtrl. But I know that isn't going to cut it ... so I'll put a "fresh install" cab together as well.
Kona,
Good idea putting an all-in-1 cab together for an easy install otherwise all you will get is a thousand questions on how to install the app and what other linked apps are required. Probably a major distraction if what you really want to know is how the user experience is progresing.
Re the sensitivity compromise, have you had a chat with Efrost as to where his latest version of Ftouchflo is now at, from a technical perspective?
This thread is now on my auto notify list, ready for your next move.
All the best.
WB
im completely interested but does this have a transparent background on the home screen like the original windows unlock screen?
if so, this if EXACTLY what im looking for.
a lock on wakeup feature would be great too.
thanks,
wacky.banana said:
Kona,
Re the sensitivity compromise, have you had a chat with Efrost as to where his latest version of Ftouchflo is now at, from a technical perspective?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I have contacted him through PM here ... and asked about the plugin architecture for FTouchSL, to see if he'd let me rebuild my TFloCtrl app as a plugin. He seemed to be receptive to the idea ... but I haven't heard much from him since. I'm pretty sure the free version of FTouchFlo isn't going to progress past v1.4.1 ... as all efforts are now on FTouchSL. It's only like $15, so I'll probably buy a copy at some point. efrost deserves our support! Of course, I was hoping he'd give me a license for developing my plugins against, and then I could buy a copy for my wife!
I need to get a bit more insight into his plugin architecture too, however. I'm not completely sure that everything that I've done so far with TFloCtrl will work in his plugin architecture. We'll have to see.
sounds lije it will be awesome...when developed of course. i am really into being able to lock my device easily and be something i can unlock without much thought or having to look at the keyboard whilst i enter an alpha-numeric code. kinda biometrics like without the fingerprint scanner. thanks for the info and i am waiting for more news.
kidnamedAlbert said:
im completely interested but does this have a transparent background on the home screen like the original windows unlock screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, in fact, TFloCtrl has no background ... or window at all. It's more of a windowless process, that sets the display to the Today screen, locks the device, and exits. You're left at the Today screen with a locked device. Hmm, that gives me an idea for a feature, bridging between another app I'm working on. An option to also simulate a click on the Today screen, to ensure a particular tab is selected upon locking.
kidnamedAlbert said:
if so, this if EXACTLY what im looking for.
a lock on wakeup feature would be great too.
thanks,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, to put in a lock on wakeup feature would require a whole separate application. At that point, I'd almost be rebuilding armstrong's DeviceLock. You should take a look at this, as I was running it for a while for just that feature. It should work just fine with my app, because he is also using the normal built-in lock functionality. He also had an "easy unlock" feature that only required the softkey press ... but it was too "easy" for me. The swipe gesture is much less likely to occur accidentally, but still can be completed without even looking at the screen! That's the biggest benefit in my mind.
Daremo_23 said:
sounds lije it will be awesome...when developed of course. i am really into being able to lock my device easily and be something i can unlock without much thought or having to look at the keyboard whilst i enter an alpha-numeric code. kinda biometrics like without the fingerprint scanner. thanks for the info and i am waiting for more news.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"biometrics without the scanning" ... that's a pretty good way to describe it
I think it nice, because it offers the protection from accidental button/screen presses of the device lock, but with easier unlocking ... as you said, not having to look at the screen. But in addition, I'm also hoping it'll pair well with Organic Lock, to offer the additional security that people like WB are looking for.
And as far as "developed" goes ... it's already working on my device! I'm just thinking about what features to include for a Beta 1 release ... and also I need to invest the time to put together the installation ... or else the thread will fill with "how to install?" postings. I learned my lesson last time with the TFloCubeCtrl thread.
Just an idea, stolen from the Android platform.
You could make the unlock gesture user-customizable. Maybe there could be an interface in the settings for users to "draw" their unlock gesture and practice on it. Then, if someone wants security without a password, he can use a complex gesture.
edit: That was a horrible explanation, haha, you'll get the point from this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arXolJrLVEg
It's just an idea.. a screenlock application, little bit more interactive...
for those who like Mass Effect...
I know, I know... it could be too hard to unlock...
but you can always convert your files in Omnigel.....
cool idea...you can always add a slider at the bottom for emergency unlocking!
maybe even something like the screen unlocking shown on the android demo
how about the VDPIN from uplink:hacker elite
http://www.geocities.com/jaapsch/puzzles/lights.htm#desc2000
kinda like that but much more simple since its purpose should be just to unlock the phone, not solve a puzzle
oh and mass effect is AWESOME finished it a couple of times
all i can say is the Blue Oyster Cult were wrong,...... we should fear the reapers!!!!!
There is throttlelock.. Very nice app.. screenlock with protection.. works nice.. don't know about battery consumption, but still beta..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=419525
yeah! exactly the same of the Android's screenlock!
anyone can make it ?!
djind said:
There is throttlelock.. Very nice app.. screenlock with protection.. works nice.. don't know about battery consumption, but still beta..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=419525
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there.
i am using throttlelock and is very very usefull !!! very light version, battery consuption is absolutely less than S2U2.
i have modify the skin and all the icons so it can fit my theme.
AND MOST IMPORTANT THINK.....DIAMOND IS TOTALLY LOCKED, including home button.
only one missing point for me, to run the application you need to manually put in suspend mode your diamond, i haven't see the possibility to match it with the backlight, but sure someone more smart than me can do it easily.
ciao
Hell yeah, S2U2 is cool, because it's as an iPhone, but it's laggy and it cost too much battery even HTC closed...
So, as i appreciate the way to unlock it, i found this program : http://www.throttlelauncher.com/downloads/files/ThrottleLock0.4.CAB
It's more than a simply unlocker, as you can create a pattern which look like a password, but you also can simply define as pattern the 3 downs buttons from left to right, and it's like S2U, without lag (and yeah without the iPhone trademark ) !
Here are some screenshot : http://www.throttlelauncher.com/portal/downloads/34-public-releases/87-throttle-lock-04
Enjoy it
I'd be interested in anyone's opinion on this.
I like S2U2, I don't find it drains my battery too much, I like the extra info it displays about next appointments and tasks etc.
Does this locking system show that kind of information too?
Zepiii said:
Hell yeah, S2U2 is cool, because it's as an iPhone, but it's laggy and it cost too much battery even HTC closed...
So, as i appreciate the way to unlock it, i found this program : http://www.throttlelauncher.com/downloads/files/ThrottleLock0.4.CAB
It's more than a simply unlocker, as you can create a pattern which look like a password, but you also can simply define as pattern the 3 downs buttons from left to right, and it's like S2U, without lag (and yeah without the iPhone trademark ) !
Here are some screenshot : http://www.throttlelauncher.com/portal/downloads/34-public-releases/87-throttle-lock-04
Enjoy it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried it,very nice and cool looking, but unfortunately it wil unlock itself by an incoming call.
Ha ha, doesn't that make it kinda pointless? Many of us will want a lock so that when a call comes in, it doesn't accidentally unlock...
Does a text message unlock it to? Does turning it on unlock it?
I only use S2A2 for the Full Screen caller Option and Trotllelock for a manual devicelock (added to my start up list).
@AndyCr15 : luckyuser means that sometimes Trotllelock unlock itself (Bug). Normally you must wipe with your finger from up to bottom to answer a call. I'll use only the device lock option. Not the answer unlock option. So i'll have the best options from both apps.
AndyCr15 said:
Ha ha, doesn't that make it kinda pointless? Many of us will want a lock so that when a call comes in, it doesn't accidentally unlock...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yean it's unlock when a call, but HTC got the protection as you have to put your finger on the virutal block and move it to the left to answer and move to the right to ignore... so it's not a problem, it's an advantage that it's unlocked automatically...
AndyCr15 said:
Does a text message unlock it to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ofc not, but it is signaled by an icone
Zepiii said:
Yean it's unlock when a call, but HTC got the protection as you have to put your finger on the virutal block and move it to the left to answer and move to the right to ignore... so it's not a problem, it's an advantage that it's unlocked automatically...
ofc not, but it is signaled by an icone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry,, But you forget the hardware buttons they are not locked.. so you can accidentaly push any of the hardware buttons...
iosub said:
Sorry,, But you forget the hardware buttons they are not locked.. so you can accidentaly push any of the hardware buttons...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only programm who can fix that problem to is PocketShield.
Tried this app also, but I had to often gesture problems by shaking the phone! The device didn't react and awake properly for normal use!
i lock my phone by pressing and holding the "down reciever" icon. I thought that i could do that and this app would activate but it doesnt.
It's simple, S2U 1.37 corrects the advantage that thortlelock had... let's go back to S2U2 1.37
See you
luckyuser said:
The only programm who can fix that problem to is PocketShield.
Tried this app also, but I had to often gesture problems by shaking the phone! The device didn't react and awake properly for normal use!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it too. Shaking does not work that good, so I only use it with finger slide. Works really good. The application is not free though, but €7 is not that much for lifetime upgrades and a lock application that does what it promises
Let's be clear, the application does not unlock itself; it merely (like S2U2) allows you to answer or ignore the call. After the call is completed the phone remains locked.
I have used both and chose throttlelock over S2U2 because of the lack of battery drain, the fact that I can mute an incoming call and that the security on throttlelock is (mildly) better than on S2U2. The other thing to mention is that there are options within throttlelock to disable the 'hard keys' if you choose.
Personally, I will continue to use throttlelock (or an alternative like Pocketshield when it becomes fully HD compatible) until some of the issues with S2U2 are fixed. These are still apparent in the latest ver 1.37.
Just my opinion
Mav.
Pocket shield is the best. I love it's option to auto-unlock with light sensor, and in the dark I just slide my finger on the screen It's also great that it can disable the hardware buttons when locked so no more problem with incidental pressing them while taking the phone out of my pocket I am very happy with this program, esspecially since it has no battery-drain issue like s2u2. The only thing that bothers me is why the h*... htc did'nt implement something like that in TF3d?! ...that, and group sms solution... and a few other things... sorry for the of topic in the end,
Mavrick said:
(or an alternative like Pocketshield when it becomes fully HD compatible)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is not fully compatible with the HD? if you mean the background customization, that is already fixed.
david-v said:
What is not fully compatible with the HD? if you mean the background customization, that is already fixed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My bad.
It wasn't the last time I checked. I'll take a look asap.
Thanks.
Mav.
kamilyo said:
esspecially since it has no battery-drain issue like s2u2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NEW version of S2U2 (1.40) avaliable now, has potential fix for battery-drain issue!
What do you do when you forget your code?
EDIT: Nevermindt
kamilyo said:
The only thing that bothers me is why the h*... htc did'nt implement something like that in TF3d?! ...that, and group sms solution... and a few other things... sorry for the of topic in the end,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't mind paying, use PowerSMS from Trinket Software to do your group SMS'ing - see http://www.trinketsoftware.com/powersms for details
aussiebum said:
NEW version of S2U2 (1.40) avaliable now, has potential fix for battery-drain issue!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We'll see....I used to use S2U2 on my Kaiser but haven't bothered putting on for the last couple of months due to excessive ROM flashing - on my Touch PRO, I found that "TouchLockPro" was a brilliant alternative to S2U2 as it allows you to take advantage of the capacitive touch functionality on the Touch Pro. Have a read here for all the details.
Just my $0.02
Mark.
What I am looking for is a simple auto key lock, I am not the only one!
S2U2 I have tried and found to be laggy and unstable, essentially it is overkill, as are most auto key lock programs. I want something simple!
When pressing and holding the end key the keypad locks, all i want is a program to do this automatically after a set time delay, without any fancy tricks or graphics - surely this isn't too much to ask?
I am aware that the power button can put the phone to sleep and disable the keys/screen BUT they do not stay disabled if the phone wakes up (when getting a call/message etc.). Only the key lock does this.
As an alternative, does anyone know how to call the key lock software, where is it located in the windows folder? I can try and write something to do this?
I guess you don't want the password to be activated?
If you do want the password then you can easily do this via
Settings--Personal--Lock
and just specify the time before auto-lock happens
Here are a couple of aps that might help:-
LockWithPassword -I have this little app mapped to a shortcut on my today ...so I can instantly lock when needed ... thanks to slow23 right here at XDA
LockAndOff -does what it says on the tin ...again can be set up as a shortcut, and this one locks keys & turns the screen off (with a single click on the shortcut) but does not invoke the password
Got it from here:- link
Thanks jcsxda, LockAndOff is pretty close to what i want, now if it could be set to run after a short period of activity, or on device sleep/wakeup then it would be perfect
Im looking for the same thing.
A simple auto lock just like any other phone...
S2U2 is overkill and can miss up someother app.
it is the same as the device lock today shorcut?
sorry, my phone is in my car and im too lazy
VJDeviceLock can be used to automatically lock your phone when you switch it off (actually, when you switch it on but it amounts to the same thing).
You can assign any app to launch on power on, by using the events management functions built into the OS. Eg Memory Maid will let you run apps on power on etc.
V
Thanks Vijay for the great info. shutil.dll is responsible for the device lock on windows mobile when you press the today plugin for locking.
Do you know a command to use this DLL (to put in Memory Maid) ?
Is there a rundll32.exe like on desktops or something
VJ you are a star!
Exactly what I've been looking for. A little fiddly to setup, but shouldn't be a problem for anyone unless they are a total newbie!
Now it's setup it is perfect.
Thank you very much, donation on the way!
@jrg1967
Many thanks for the donation! For various personal reasons, I went cold turkey off XDA Devs for about a year, but I'm really glad to be slowly getting back into it. It's amazing how strong this community is, internationally!
@el_lo:
Although there is an API for enabling the lock, when I tried to implement it when WM5 first came out, for VJDeviceLock, it wasn't well documented, so VJDeviceLock does something else that I can't remember now to enable the lock.
I don't believe that there is a rundll32 type app on Windows Mobile. It wouldn't be hard to make one, but then you'd still be running an external app!
I believe that VJKeyPress can also be used to enable the keylock, and there are other 3rd party apps.
HTC may well have built in some function to enable the lock through ROM based software, but for me, VJDeviceLock serves me well.
V
@VJ, you have the makings of a commercial piece of software there- it is very hard to find a simple program to do this, as the poll bias shows. You just need a user friendly settings program to deal with the command lines and make it easy to use. I am sure it would appeal across the WM community...
yeh would be great for the phone to autolock after a set period of time like other phones. ok the screen turns off after 30seconds but it doesnt lock the keys. seems strange why this feature isnt already on the phone...
Ok, I'll put this out there:
If one was developing a (possibly commercial, but cheap) auto lock app, what features would it need?
VJDeviceLock is a very old app now, but it works fine and it still surprises me that autolocking on power off is not a standard feature, so I always install it. I understand that there is a registry entry on the newer non X1 HTCs that does something similar, but anyway:
What features would you need? First, auto locking after a fixed time.
What else?
In the interest of keeping it simple, don't ask for a slide to unlock replacement, as S2U is already fabulous, if that's your thing.
Also note that if you're interested, I can entirely replace the native unlock screen with a different interface, although again, I don't propose replacing S2U. I mean something more like a HUGE unlock button.
Give me ideas.
I can do gesture based unlocks, accelerometer based locking and unlocking (assuming I can do this on the X1, I don't have one, so someone feel free to give me one and I'll come and give your package a fondle).
Note that I'm busy on other stuff, so anyone else can code this, but for simple-ish features I'm happy to start working on it. Bigger stuff will take time.
It would probably be free because I can't deal with the hassle of getting rich
V
I'm using Auto Lock (CSDEVCTRL) works like a charm
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=386451
Hey Vijay, glad to see you around!
jcsxda said:
I guess you don't want the password to be activated?
If you do want the password then you can easily do this via
Settings--Personal--Lock
and just specify the time before auto-lock happens
Here are a couple of aps that might help:-
LockWithPassword -I have this little app mapped to a shortcut on my today ...so I can instantly lock when needed ... thanks to slow23 right here at XDA
LockAndOff -does what it says on the tin ...again can be set up as a shortcut, and this one locks keys & turns the screen off (with a single click on the shortcut) but does not invoke the password
Got it from here:- link
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks..seems like the lock app i was looking for.
X1 is like a mini comp....anyone can mess around with it if u leave it unlocked
Hi VJ,
It's still working great! Don't make this over complicated, as you can see from the poll people want a simple solution. Now I have it setup it's working just as needed, the standard unlock screen is fine, but the setup was a pain! So, IMHO all that is required is a simple front-end allowing to choose the options, rather than having to enter a command line. More complicated solutions to this issue are already available, so keep it simple.
Options for keylock/password lock at sleep and/or after a set time interval is probably all that is required.
BTW, X1 does NOT have accelerometer.
just having the regular keylock automatically come on after x amount of seconds would do me. no fancy screensavers, passwords or swiping the screen or anything like that. i noticed on diamond tweak there was an option for the keylock to come on when the standby kicked in and the screen goes off, doesnt work on the x1 though but that feature would be ideal.
vijay555 said:
Ok, I'll put this out there:
If one was developing a (possibly commercial, but cheap) auto lock app, what features would it need?
VJDeviceLock is a very old app now, but it works fine and it still surprises me that autolocking on power off is not a standard feature, so I always install it. I understand that there is a registry entry on the newer non X1 HTCs that does something similar, but anyway:
What features would you need? First, auto locking after a fixed time.
What else?
In the interest of keeping it simple, don't ask for a slide to unlock replacement, as S2U is already fabulous, if that's your thing.
Also note that if you're interested, I can entirely replace the native unlock screen with a different interface, although again, I don't propose replacing S2U. I mean something more like a HUGE unlock button.
Give me ideas.
I can do gesture based unlocks, accelerometer based locking and unlocking (assuming I can do this on the X1, I don't have one, so someone feel free to give me one and I'll come and give your package a fondle).
Note that I'm busy on other stuff, so anyone else can code this, but for simple-ish features I'm happy to start working on it. Bigger stuff will take time.
It would probably be free because I can't deal with the hassle of getting rich
V
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can make it very simple.assign lock software to power off button.when you display is off you phone ll be locked.this ll be lovely.thank you
Hi Vijay,
I was also trying to develop a simple autolock program. Because I couldn't find any locking program that can prevent X1BC from capturing the keys. What I need is something that kills X1BC just before locking, and re-launches it after unlocking. Currently, I am able to lock the device and kill X1BC when the display dimms, but detecting the unlock is a problem. Do you have any idea how I can detect the unlock? (My program is using the lock mechanism of QuickMenu and that is using the built-in lock).
Cheers
Not sure this is in the right forum since it's really a general WM question, but anyway...
I want to be able to view my today screen since it contains all my appointments etc even when the screen is locked.
I guess a transparent screen lock would solve the problem, but I havent found one yet.
Is there one?
Another solution would be something that kept the screen locked until I press the power button. Then it would be easy to unlock but still locked when it's not in use so I dont make calls etc without knowing it.
try s2u2 http://www.xda-developers.com/windows-mobile/s2u2-new-version-v2-30/ it will show your information on the lock screen
Martin25 said:
try s2u2 http://www.xda-developers.com/windows-mobile/s2u2-new-version-v2-30/ it will show your information on the lock screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not good enough. I have everything specified just as I want it in my today screen and to find a custom lock screen that matches that is impossible to find. A transparent lock screen or a lock screen that gets unlocked automatically when I press the power button would solve it perfectly.
use the old (standart)lockscreen. like wm6.1
it is your homescreen with a unlock softbutton.
(i use wm6.1 and now i don't know why everybody is needing blown up lockscreens, when the old one was best )
aber82 said:
use the old (standart)lockscreen. like wm6.1
it is your homescreen with a unlock softbutton.
(i use wm6.1 and now i don't know why everybody is needing blown up lockscreens, when the old one was best )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do I get the old style? If I show the lock object on the today screen it will still show the new 6.5 lock screen when I lock the phone.
i do not know how to get it back , but i know that it is possible.
i hope someone can show you the way.
aber82 said:
i do not know how to get it back , but i know that it is possible.
i hope someone can show you the way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Found it: http://www.modaco.com/index.php?s=&showtopic=293605&view=findpost&p=1207481
Seems to work, thanks. Still interested in other soultions, but this will probably be fine otherwise.
or install Cookie Home Tab
it has customizable lockscreens, emphasis on multiple kinds of locks.
each has the ability to move the parts around like CHT always does. and you can make it fit your every need !
gmanfuzing said:
or install Cookie Home Tab
it has customizable lockscreens, emphasis on multiple kinds of locks.
each has the ability to move the parts around like CHT always does. and you can make it fit your every need !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does that requier HTC Sense? I'm using a clean rom without any HTC software, since I want to use the old today screen. This is very important since I use TodayAgenda.