switched from my bb8900 that finally crapped out on me today. so being as this is my first android phone...what do you guys suggest i do first with it?
best apps to download?
probably not going to root. guess i can be considered a n00b. im good with computers but not programming good. ive read a lot but i dont want to brick my first android. maybe if i get a new one later on down the road i can practice on an old one.
best suggestions for increasing battery life?
games? etc etc.
also i have a question about gps. i downgraded to the 200mb plan through tmobile. i wasnt using nearly enough to keep unlimited. the majority of my use i can use wifi or randomly i'll use the gps when im driving. i know you use data when using gps but how much is it? i have a friend with a droid thru verizon and he looked up directions with google gps. and while we were driving he completely lost service for probably 30+ minutes going through some moutain heavily forested area. but it kept navigating. is this because google had already mapped out the directions? is it possible to just lookup where you are going and then turn off your service to avoid using lost of data?
sorry for being a noob.
thanks in advance.
kevin
Please post questions in Q&A section.
sorry about that
Hi Big Fancy,
I got on Android back in November of 2008 just after the G1 was released. Even though I'm a geek by profession, I wasn't planning on rooting my phone. That changed pretty quickly thereafter.
I was given a free CliqXT at the beginning of 2010 and I didn't root that (I haven't looked, but I'm not even sure if anyone even tried to gain root access on that device). I was hanging on and drooling over the Desire HD and then the HTC Glacier (myTouch 4G) hit the market - it was a no brainer.
I didn't plan on rooting this device either, as I didn't want to "break" my new, pristine baby. Philosophically speaking, one should have root access, but I'm also conservative enough to know when I don't need to play with fire.
What I'm getting at is, once I saw how easy it was to do...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=834225
...it just became another no brainer.
Ok, so most of the apps I would recommend, are going to require root access.
Titanium Backup for Root Users - This is a must have. Whether it's for restoring data or reverting back to a previous version of an app, this is one of those apps I think is a must-have. It's also the first app I purchased and I've been on Android since 2008. I've been quite happy with the free apps on the market, but I loved this app and had to support the dev.
ClockworkMod Recovery - This is also a must have. Essentially, this is like imaging a hard drive or cloning your system. In a way, this trumps Titanium, since you can backup your entire "image." If something breaks though or if there's an issue with the ROM itself, then Titanium is your lifesaver.
AdFree - This just updates your hosts file and nullifies, if you will, any known 'ad' IPs/host names. Basically, you don't see ads in ad-driven apps like Angry Birds or Watchdog Lite.
Watchdog Lite - You really want to avoid task killer apps, to a degree. The developer of Watchdog has a succinct explanation of it on his site - http://www.zomut.com/watchdog/froyo.
SetCPU - Sure, you can overclock your CPU with this, but you can also create nice profiles which will pull the CPU back a bit and help conserve battery life.
LogMeIn Ignition - Those who know a little more might just use RDP or VNC. I've been using RDP to remote-in to my home PCs and any Windows Servers I managed since I got on Android. LogMeIn is great though and for those that aren't familiar with port forwarding, et al, LogMeIn is a dead-simple way to access your computer from the road. It's also a secure connection, so that makes it a winner in my book. I use TeamViewer to support my clients and we're upgrading our license at the beginning of 2011, now that TeamViewer for Android is in beta.
Speed Test - It's nice to be able to show off your speeds, but it's also nice to check your speeds wherever you're at. A log is kept, so you can spot trends if you're experiencing speed/bandwidth issues.
Here's a handful more apps/games I find to be useful...
- Adobe Reader
- Adobe Flash
- Amazon Kindle
- Angry Birds + Angry Birds Seasons
- Barcode Scanner
- Bonsai Blast
- Chrome to Phone
- ES File Explorer
- Gmote
- gStrings (chromatic guitar tuner)
- HootSuite
- IMDb
- Movies (by Flixster)
- My Piano
- OI Notepad, OI Shopping List, OI Safe and OI File Manager (particularly Notepad and Shopping List - I use those daily)
- Paper Toss
- Photoshop Express
- Quadrant
- Reversi Free
- Shazam
- Skype
- Torrent-fu
- Uninstaller Pro
- UPS Mobile
- WordPress
- XDA
- Yelp
Welcome, good luck and I hope this helps!
thank u so much for that very in depth info! i really appreciate it!
Well I got it and this thing is so much more bada$$ than I could have hoped for. Just gotta get used to touchscreen typing. Trying swype. Wish me luck!
big fancy said:
Well I got it and this thing is so much more bada$$ than I could have hoped for. Just gotta get used to touchscreen typing. Trying swype. Wish me luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I loved swype but now I've got the gingerbread keyboard app from the market, (by Steven Lin) and it's AMAZING. The auto complete feature is SO MUCH MORE convenient than swyping, especially while driving.
It is a must have for one handed operation and it works fine on the MT4G.
Give it a try, it's on the market.
Just search Gingerbread Keyboard and look for the one by Steven Lin.
You'll love it!
nguyendqh said:
I loved swype but now I've got the gingerbread keyboard app from the market, (by Steven Lin) and it's AMAZING. The auto complete feature is SO MUCH MORE convenient than swyping, especially while driving.
It is a must have for one handed operation and it works fine on the MT4G.
Give it a try, it's on the market.
Just search Gingerbread Keyboard and look for the one by Steven Lin.
You'll love it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll give it a shot! Swype is just fantastic, but I'll check it out and see which feels better.
Not sure I want to encourage myself or others to text and drive though.
[[[Ice Glacier beats Rock ~ via XDA App]]]
shlongwoodian said:
I'll give it a shot! Swype is just fantastic, but I'll check it out and see which feels better.
Not sure I want to encourage myself or others to text and drive though.
[[[Ice Glacier beats Rock ~ via XDA App]]]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I wasn't promoting driving and texting either..but if you had too. lol.
shlongwoodian, that was a great write up. I've been on and off with Android ever I got my G1 back in Oct in 08 when my contract was up, and ever since then it was either iOS or Android, and now I'm back with Android after using it for a year in 09 and then this whole year with an iPhone. Missed it, got the G2 first with the contract and then this MT4G, and I'm loving it. Rooted this (I won't use a phone if it's not jailbroken or rooted, just a personal thing, I want to be able to control my phone), and it's been great. I don't think I can go back to a BB or iPhone. Even though I really want to give Windows Phone 7 a shot.
nguyendqh said:
I loved swype but now I've got the gingerbread keyboard app from the market, (by Steven Lin) and it's AMAZING. The auto complete feature is SO MUCH MORE convenient than swyping, especially while driving.
It is a must have for one handed operation and it works fine on the MT4G.
Give it a try, it's on the market.
Just search Gingerbread Keyboard and look for the one by Steven Lin.
You'll love it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. I tried to install the Fabulous Gingerbread. zip posted on Android Spin and it put my phone into a boot loop. Downloaded this and it is just fine. I do like it a lot. I had been a Swype lover but now I am really torn between the two and am leaning toward the GB keyboard.
tenbeau said:
Thanks for the info. I tried to install the Fabulous Gingerbread. zip posted on Android Spin and it put my phone into a boot loop. Downloaded this and it is just fine. I do like it a lot. I had been a Swype lover but now I am really torn between the two and am leaning toward the GB keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. Glad you like it. I'm a big fan now too.
Still nice that the option to swype is there, if you switch back. But yeah. =P
So I did it. Finally got tired of the lag with my stock mt4g. Fully rooted with s off and loaded iced glacier. This runs so much better now. No lag. Totally smooth. Faster quadrant benchmarks. Hopefully the battery lasts longer like I've heard from some here on the board.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App
Related
Alright guys so im new to the nexus one and android as well. I have some backround on it but i just wanted to see what you stuff you guys would recommend i do to get the most out of my phone. I know that 2.2 is going to be coming out soon so i dont really want to root but which apps should i download and any tips and tricks would be appreciated.
So far ive been using it for about 5 hours and i feel like a little kid on christmas haha.
yarraguzmn said:
So far ive been using it for about 5 hours and i feel like a little kid on christmas haha.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same... I had my nexus one unplugged for 2 hours and i was down to 42% battery after unplugging with a full charge. Thats on wifi and screen brightness off.. =) good times
Welcome to the club
Root..root...root....
Why root?
- Can change any custom rom you want...Froyo, CM, desire...anything..
- Overclock the CPU to 1.113GHz!!!
- Change basically anything on the phone..icons, notification bars, themes, settings, trackball colours, wifi tethering
- Better battery life by using custom kernels (im getting 24-26hrs battery life - moderate to heavy usage)
- Nandroid backups, titanium backup....
- Change camera app to desire or the newly found 720P HI-DEF recording...
- and much more
This will make ure phone to be the best smartphone on the planet...
yarraguzmn said:
Alright guys so im new to the nexus one and android as well. I have some backround on it but i just wanted to see what you stuff you guys would recommend i do to get the most out of my phone. I know that 2.2 is going to be coming out soon so i dont really want to root but which apps should i download and any tips and tricks would be appreciated.
So far ive been using it for about 5 hours and i feel like a little kid on christmas haha.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My advice:
- don't root it yet. Wait for FroYo OTA. Once you're on official froyo, see if root is even beneficial to you or not. The longer u stay 100% covered on warranty, the safer you'll feel.
- get these:
swype (there's apk here somewhere)
barcode scanner (to get apps by scanning barcodes on webpages)
aldiko reader (ebook reader app, AWESOME)
astro file manager (doh)
battery left widget (approximates your battery time left)
DigiClock widget (best clock widget, imo)
flashlight app for non-rooted N1s (there's one on market, forgot name)
NewsRob (RSS reader from your google news account, free)
ShopSavvy (probably the best app ever created - scan any product barcode, it tells you local+web prices)
xda app (don't forget to turn off signature in the settings)
twitter (official app is the best, imo)
Enjoy and congrats!
DarkDvr said:
My advice:
- don't root it yet. Wait for FroYo OTA. Once you're on official froyo, see if root is even beneficial to you or not. The longer u stay 100% covered on warranty, the safer you'll feel.
- get these:
swype (there's apk here somewhere)
barcode scanner (to get apps by scanning barcodes on webpages)
aldiko reader (ebook reader app, AWESOME)
astro file manager (doh)
battery left widget (approximates your battery time left)
DigiClock widget (best clock widget, imo)
flashlight app for non-rooted N1s (there's one on market, forgot name)
NewsRob (RSS reader from your google news account, free)
ShopSavvy (probably the best app ever created - scan any product barcode, it tells you local+web prices)
xda app (don't forget to turn off signature in the settings)
twitter (official app is the best, imo)
Enjoy and congrats!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dark, do you have a working non-trial version of swype?
thanks
zachthemaster said:
dark, do you have a working non-trial version of swype?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. AFAIK, this one is better than the more recent one (people are having problems with the newer version).
This one works like a champ.
i waited 3 months before rooting my nexus, which i just did a week ago. the number 1 best thing about rooting is nand backups! you can create an exact copy of your entire phone at an instant in time. every single part of the phone is backed up from each text message down to every item in your call log. and obviously the apps are included. even whatever theme you are using, like a black notification bar, etc.
so no matter how bad you screw up your phone, or want to experiment, you can always bring it right back to any instant in time within a few minutes. that's my biggest feature after rooting.
and of course trying out different ROMs, like cyanogen, froyo, etc.
DarkDvr said:
Yep. AFAIK, this one is better than the more recent one (people are having problems with the newer version).
This one works like a champ.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ah yessss i just nutted, thank you my friend. so you probably arent experiencing any 'expiration' errors right?
thanks again dark
DarkDvr said:
My advice:
- don't root it yet. Wait for FroYo OTA. Once you're on official froyo, see if root is even beneficial to you or not. The longer u stay 100% covered on warranty, the safer you'll feel.
- get these:
swype (there's apk here somewhere)
barcode scanner (to get apps by scanning barcodes on webpages)
aldiko reader (ebook reader app, AWESOME)
astro file manager (doh)
battery left widget (approximates your battery time left)
DigiClock widget (best clock widget, imo)
flashlight app for non-rooted N1s (there's one on market, forgot name)
NewsRob (RSS reader from your google news account, free)
ShopSavvy (probably the best app ever created - scan any product barcode, it tells you local+web prices)
xda app (don't forget to turn off signature in the settings)
twitter (official app is the best, imo)
Enjoy and congrats!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IS there a way you know of to automatically go to the last tweet you read on twitter? other than this I Would agree its the best. I used to use Twicca and that managed this simple task.
wow thanks for all the advice guys i will be looking at some of those apps..as far as rooting i know all the benefits but im not as advanced to perform any of those tasks..also i use a mac does that make a difference in doing any of that stuff..
i would like to try that swipe how to put it on my phone just put it on my sd card and run it?
I just got my Nexus One yesterday and thoroughly enjoying it!
I got my nexus 2 weeks ago and had it rooted within and hour of opening the box
I got into Android about a month ago when I got my first G1 off craigslist to experiment with (then bought 4 more off craigslist, I'm an addict lol, go big or go home).
Being able to change stuff on the phone to make it more usable / faster is the best thing. I don't think I could use a stock OS phone.
zombiess said:
I got my nexus 2 weeks ago and had it rooted within and hour of opening the box
I got into Android about a month ago when I got my first G1 off craigslist to experiment with (then bought 4 more off craigslist, I'm an addict lol, go big or go home).
Being able to change stuff on the phone to make it more usable / faster is the best thing. I don't think I could use a stock OS phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In all honestly, Android on the Nexus is the only stock OS I've been able to use for more than a day without hacking it or wishing I could hack/change it (like on dumbphones). I'm still on stock because I am waiting for Froyo and still deciding whether root is worth losing 100% warranty.
There was just a thread with the same topic/title a few hours before yours. Word of advice... to not piss off some of us old timers, learn to search and add to existing threads.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=698084
Oh...and enjoy the phone.
uansari1 said:
There was just a thread with the same topic/title a few hours before yours. Word of advice... to not piss off some of us old timers, learn to search and add to existing threads.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=698084
Oh...and enjoy the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I killed that thread with my last post..
ChillRays said:
I killed that thread with my last post..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I followed the link into the thread and saw what you posted. Hilarious.
zachthemaster said:
ah yessss i just nutted, thank you my friend. so you probably arent experiencing any 'expiration' errors right?
thanks again dark
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, been using it since April i think
uansari1 said:
There was just a thread with the same topic/title a few hours before yours. Word of advice... to not piss off some of us old timers, learn to search and add to existing threads.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=698084
Oh...and enjoy the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
......................
Got a Vibrant yesterday to "try out" the android world for the first time. Must say I'm impressed by the phones performance out of the box even with all the bloatware and crap on it. I've been a windows mobile guy for quite some time now, so the people that know both platforms well, know they are two completely different monsters. My two options were the hd2 (since i know the WM world pretty well) or learn a whole new platform with the vibrant.
I like it so far, but also miss some of the things from WM (or rather miss knowing my phone well). I guess i just have to start from zero and get acquainted with it first.
Any suggestions on getting the bare down scoop of the platform and such as far as learning it from the ground up? The sticky explains how to do these things, but I need something more basic...I just wanna become proficient in the android world as I am in the WM world starting from zero.
Its hard to say where to start, the best thing about android is the customization. Playing with phone is the only way you are gonna learn, I have been an android owner since day one and am still learning new things everyday. If there is something I don't know I simply come here since this is the best android community on the web. Hope you enjoy IMO the best android phone on the market.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Yeah, really not that much to help with...everything seems pretty intuitive to me. When in doubt, long press or press menu.
My first questions were always like:
Sweet I have Avatar on here, what else Can I put on?
Oh damn, there's only a 2GB Card, and if I remove it, I lose Avatar.
WTF is amazon kindle for? I don't need this? How can I remove Bloats?
That's where I started off, you're most likely going to want to root it. Search the forums around. There's some great stickies to follow by and just go with that.
Can't wait for CM? Learn to make your own APP to have fun with ;p
phragg said:
My first questions were always like:
Sweet I have Avatar on here, what else Can I put on?
Oh damn, there's only a 2GB Card, and if I remove it, I lose Avatar.
WTF is amazon kindle for? I don't need this? How can I remove Bloats?
That's where I started off, you're most likely going to want to root it. Search the forums around. There's some great stickies to follow by and just go with that.
Can't wait for CM? Learn to make your own APP to have fun with ;p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, kindle isn't that bad considering you can get a ton of free books for it.
Sent from my Galaxy S using the XDA App
phragg said:
My first questions were always like:
Sweet I have Avatar on here, what else Can I put on?
Oh damn, there's only a 2GB Card, and if I remove it, I lose Avatar.
WTF is amazon kindle for? I don't need this? How can I remove Bloats?
That's where I started off, you're most likely going to want to root it. Search the forums around. There's some great stickies to follow by and just go with that.
Can't wait for CM? Learn to make your own APP to have fun with ;p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you could always copy Avatar onto a larger card and then go wild! That's what I did, it will play lots of 720p mkv's that you might have laying around no problem!
Long press and menu are your friends. Other than that look here on xda and use the search function. The stickies typically have the most current info.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
phragg said:
My first questions were always like:
Sweet I have Avatar on here, what else Can I put on?
Oh damn, there's only a 2GB Card, and if I remove it, I lose Avatar.
WTF is amazon kindle for? I don't need this? How can I remove Bloats?
That's where I started off, you're most likely going to want to root it. Search the forums around. There's some great stickies to follow by and just go with that.
Can't wait for CM? Learn to make your own APP to have fun with ;p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what is CM?
I am a programmer by profession. Maybe I could look into the world of android programming too while im at it
phragg said:
My first questions were always like:
Sweet I have Avatar on here, what else Can I put on?
Oh damn, there's only a 2GB Card, and if I remove it, I lose Avatar.
WTF is amazon kindle for? I don't need this? How can I remove Bloats?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't have those questions. I mean the first thing i did was move avatar to my 16gb msdhc into it and go wild with my music, photo, and videos...which I'm amazed how good of sound/video quality i get on this.
I thought more of like where do how do I view flash websites, how do i stream live .pls live music streams, or smaller things like hiding apps from the notification area at the top left when they are running, or resizing certain widgets, removing some of the applications that came with the phone from t mobile, mapping buttons to do different things based on holding them down or tapping a certain amount of times, things like that that aren't explained in the user manual. Or even like right now, I'm trying to make a call and it says: "Call not sent"...well? whyyyyyyyyy? so many questions!
I don't know, I guess all this is just part of the familiarization process and will sooner or later find them out whether by experience or hunting down resources why certain behaviors and actions happen.
speoples20 said:
Long press and menu are your friends. Other than that look here on xda and use the search function. The stickies typically have the most current info.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what is long press?
^ you should read the sticky. A lot of the things you mentioned, are addressed in the sticky.
Also, flash is only on Android 2.2, which we do not have yet.
achild said:
Got a Vibrant yesterday to "try out" the android world for the first time. Must say I'm impressed by the phones performance out of the box even with all the bloatware and crap on it. I've been a windows mobile guy for quite some time now, so the people that know both platforms well, know they are two completely different monsters. My two options were the hd2 (since i know the WM world pretty well) or learn a whole new platform with the vibrant.
I like it so far, but also miss some of the things from WM (or rather miss knowing my phone well). I guess i just have to start from zero and get acquainted with it first.
Any suggestions on getting the bare down scoop of the platform and such as far as learning it from the ground up? The sticky explains how to do these things, but I need something more basic...I just wanna become proficient in the android world as I am in the WM world starting from zero.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congrats on your new phone. Let us know how your GPS works, since that seems to be a hot issue. you can test using google maps, google navigation and GPS Test downloadable from the Android Market.
SamsungGalaxySVibrant said:
Congrats on your new phone. Let us know how your GPS works, since that seems to be a hot issue. you can test using google maps, google navigation and GPS Test downloadable from the Android Market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha that seems to be a problem with any gps enabled phone nowadays. Happened with the fuze and after months and months of tweaking and tweaking we got a hang of it. I tried the GPS yesterday on my way home from work yesterday and did not get a lock, i went ahead and downloaded gps test today to see if that will unlock it before using the gps software. We shall see! Thanks for the heads up tho!
edit: I guess gps test on android works differently than on WM. On WM it scans through your COM ports and gets a fix for you to then use your gps navigation software.
achild said:
what is CM?
I am a programmer by profession. Maybe I could look into the world of android programming too while im at it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
please do!
we could always use more programmers.
achild said:
what is long press?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Instead of tapping on something you hold your finger down for a few seconds. A menu will pop up giving you options like copy and paste.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
If your phone won't play a video format, try RockPlayer
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I would recommend the market as the first place to go. Just start searching and downloading apps and play with your phone. You'll get accustomed to it very quickly!
Droidicus said:
I would recommend the market as the first place to go. Just start searching and downloading apps and pay with your phone. You'll get accustomed to it very quickly!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah thats what ive been doing. Thats another thing that amazes me about android, soooo many apps, and they are all centralized into one easy, convenient location. In wm you would find a few in the marketplace, and the rest u had to hunt down either on the forum or the web. This is slowly growing on me
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Coming from WM myself, (and just recently and very reticently turned over my beloved Wizard to my mom) the fun and unfun I have with Android:
Apps are so dratted cheap. Have at it.
Cloud connectivity. I use Picasa all the time now. It took me a while to get used to Google contacts, especially first name alphabetization, but I like it now.
You might want to look at subscribing to CompanionLink. It reliably syncs everything Outlook with your Google account (thus your phone).
Almost nothing was built into Android 1.0. Not much was added through 1.5. Some stuff has been added since, like Facebook sync, but custom ROMs don't add stuff. There's an app for everything. There has to be.
The app drawer is a hassle. I use FolderOrganizer (and ADW Launcher) to quell my addiction to organization beyond alphabetical.
It's fun to watch a few things catch up with WinMo and hear all the Android users brag about how great it is. Like app-specific auto-rotation. There's an app for it out now, but it actually costs something you'll think about, and it eats a hunk of RAM. They're just getting into animated GIFs. Lists and their apps aren't anywhere near ListPro, but they almost all have some way to sync to the cloud.
Office documents created on a PC don't always work with the Office apps that are out there. Don't bother with DocumentsToGo, but Sheadspreet is good (you have to convert first) and I'm trying OfficeSuite, and it seems the best. 30-day trial, $15. It's still not WinMo, though.
For those things you don't sync with the cloud, you can't just throw stuff in your My Documents Folder and rely on that backup. DropBox is a good app/service, and GoogleDocs is your friend. Most apps back up thier specific data to your SD, but on this phone, it's on the internal SD. You have to manually handle your backups, or do Nandroid backups (another worthwhile Google).
You have to install an app to install apps not from Market. Instead of exes their apks.
There's no Total Commander. I like Root Explorer. Astro is feature-filled. There are a million file explorers, and every one of them will have its advocates.
Flashing ROMs is tons easier, but you have to root first.
The Android world moves a lot faster. If you're off the forums for a week you'll feel like you've been in a coma for months. On the flip side, if you're waiting for something to get developed, waiting a few days feel like eternity.
Android devs work harder for a lot less, or no money; it's truly inspiring.
Before you go buying the first app that does what you want, check Market for more that do the same thing. I've found that there's a free alternative to almost everything. The paid versions/apps are more luxurious in one way or another, usually, but a little research can save you a bunch of regret.
Widgets suck RAM. Before you know it you've got 25 and you're wondering why your Home screen is lagging. Phones are finite. Even these.
CM is CyanogenMod. Google it, it's worth it. They started on XDA and it got out of control, so they have their own site now, although the threads still hanging on XDA re CM are a much more interesting read. It seems to be the most popular set of ROMS for a variety of devices. I follow and flash them (the ROMs, that is. I dont want the devs to hate me).
Double entendres are rampant. It's Google.
Once you get your apps organized, you'll be surprised at how smoothly your phone useage goes. Frankly, it's just more fun, and much cheaper, to play with.
SamsungGalaxySVibrant said:
Congrats on your new phone. Let us know how your GPS works, since that seems to be a hot issue. you can test using google maps, google navigation and GPS Test downloadable from the Android Market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tested it. Google maps got no lock. However, gps test gave me 3 satellites, when I held it in front, under the windshiels it jumped to five satellites, but it wasn't enough for google maps to lock or get my location.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
I'm a new user of the SGS and am waiting patiently for my first Android phone to arrive. I have read many, many, many...did I say many post, here and on many other forums alike, concerning the SGS. I have read pros and cons and tips and tricks, but most have been on phones that have been 'Rooted'. I will like to defer from doing such thing(at least not yet) but would rather wait until Samsung releases the official Firmware that will supposedly clear all(most) of the major faults that the SGS has.
Now I would like this to be an official thread that would help those of us, who have a stocked SGS and may or may not be experiencing major lag, to help give tips on how to improve the stock SGS as it is already; for speed, what programs to use etc. It would be very comforting to establish what folks have installed on their phones and any recommendations to getting the best out of their stock SGS as possible, in waiting for the New Update Official Samsung firmware to be release.
So please, offer any advice or tips for tweaks or programs to get, maybe a place to get them if possible, so as to make life a little easier. Thank you.
I received my galaxys exactly a week ago and i immediately jumped onto the Market.
Make sure you have a google(gmail) account, as it connects the accounts.
My best downloads are as follows:
-3g watchdog. keeps an eye on your usage
-Astro . file manager
-Audiomanager. speaks for itself
-facebook
-galactic core free . Epic live wallpaper
-mario live wallpaper . not available on market, google it.
-opera mini- web browser, better than stock
-shake them all- THE BEST LIVE WALLPAPER EVA, moves droids react to accelerometer, sound and light.
-starfield,live wallpaper
-Task Manager. essential task manager for watching all your apps and services.
thats it, just search the market and XDA for other cool apps
Those are some really nice tips. I do appreciate. I also like to concur about the Opera Mini app. I use that on my N95 8gig at the moment and there's nothing that can come close. although, there are a few bugs that I think they kinda left out due to the Andriod fever, which I have apparently gotten Regardless, I am glad they have an android app of that in the market. I assume there is already a Market app on the phone, already, right?
Also. What about apps that you do not ever use? I read about not being able to remove them but is it possible to completely disable them?
The android market is pre-loaded onto the phone. there are many apps that come on the phone that are really useful. There are a couple of apps that you may not use but most of them are really useful.
I dont know that you are able to delete these stock apps but you can change the default apps. For example if chosen as default, Opera Mini opens up ALL web links and is really useful. The Stock browser is excellent but im used to opera as i used it on my Satio previously.
The model i bought was a 16GB version and 2GB is reserved for apps, ive also got a 16GB sd card so im not worried about storage.
racerboy3801 said:
I received my galaxys exactly a week ago
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol..same here mate.
racerboy3801 said:
-Astro . file manager
-opera mini- web browser, better than stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
.
Also been using Astro but I prefer Dolphin to Opera.(Used Opera mini on my N95)
BTW all: My first post on the forum so G'day to all.
G'day Mate
As the Dolphin compared to Opera mini?
Just go and try it,its also free from the market. You may still prefer Opera,doesnt matter.Give it a go anyway.
I will when I get my phone. That is why I asked. I do not have my phone yet.
Just a suggestion which hasn't been mentioned yet is to try LauncherPro or ADWLauncher as it makes customizing your home windows much easier. I love being able to customize the info I really want to see. Also spend some time using swype and you won't want to go back.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
I tried the Opera mini 5.1.21126 version and I think the tapping response is weaker than the stock browser. I had to tap several times to get a response. Either that or the mini is not calibrated accurately. I've reverted back to the stock browser. I will give Dolphin a go.
This is my first Android phone. I've previously owned the iPhone and a BlackBerry. I've sense ditched both for this Atrix. It's about a week old now.
I was heavy into jailbreaking my iPhone and modding it to how I wanted it to be, but this Android stuff is confusing the hell out of me. I just don't get it. I need the most remedial breakdown anyone can give me. I've been searching the web for days in and out trying to find something.
People have some really great information, though! That's how I came across this site. I hope to find more answers, although my mind almost exploded when I read through this thread.
Anyway, how do you like your Atrix? Any tips on making this device my own? I still feel like I should be back with an iPhone for whatever reason. LOL. It feels I'm too late to step into the Android world. I should have jumped on with the G1.
Oh, and any remedial breakdowns of rooting is welcomed! LOL!
Check out the ginger break thread for a nice break down. (really easy)
Enable swype (long press text entry)
Inquire about freezing some of the bloat with titanium backup
Start exploring the market
Download some emulators and play classic video games from the ol childhood
podcasts if your into that thing
Flash! Go to browser settings and change plug ins to (on demand) for quicker browsing and flash at your disposal!
Wait until you get uncapped upload speeds.. Oh man are you gonna love this phone!
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
morejaylesswar said:
This is my first Android phone. I've previously owned the iPhone and a BlackBerry. I've sense ditched both for this Atrix. It's about a week old now.
I was heavy into jailbreaking my iPhone and modding it to how I wanted it to be, but this Android stuff is confusing the hell out of me. I just don't get it. I need the most remedial breakdown anyone can give me. I've been searching the web for days in and out trying to find something.
People have some really great information, though! That's how I came across this site. I hope to find more answers, although my mind almost exploded when I read through this thread.
Anyway, how do you like your Atrix? Any tips on making this device my own? I still feel like I should be back with an iPhone for whatever reason. LOL. It feels I'm too late to step into the Android world. I should have jumped on with the G1.
Oh, and any remedial breakdowns of rooting is welcomed! LOL!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First you are going to need sbfs and rsdlite in case something goes wrong.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=991072
Then you will need android sdk. Installing this takes awhile btw.
http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
you might also want to learn some basic adb and busybox commands.
http://developer.android.com/guide/developing/tools/adb.html
then you can root your phone with that thread you posted. If I think of anything else, I will post more.
ChongoDroid said:
Check out the ginger break thread for a nice break down. (really easy)
Enable swype (long press text entry)
Inquire about freezing some of the bloat with titanium backup
Start exploring the market
Download some emulators and play classic video games from the ol childhood
podcasts if your into that thing
Flash! Go to browser settings and change plug ins to (on demand) for quicker browsing and flash at your disposal!
Wait until you get uncapped upload speeds.. Oh man are you gonna love this phone!
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really want an emulator! We have one on the Xoom Tablet at my job. I play Zelda when we have a bit of down time, lol.
What are some good apps?
briggie108 said:
First you are going to need sbfs and rsdlite in case something goes wrong.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=991072
Then you will need android sdk. Installing this takes awhile btw.
http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html
you might also want to learn some basic adb and busybox commands.
http://developer.android.com/guide/developing/tools/adb.html
then you can root your phone with that thread you posted. If I think of anything else, I will post more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to do this as soon as I get home! THANKS.
I appreciate you taking the time to get that stuff together for me. I hope all goes well.
ChongoDroid said:
Check out the ginger break thread for a nice break down. (really easy)
Enable swype (long press text entry)
Inquire about freezing some of the bloat with titanium backup
Start exploring the market
Download some emulators and play classic video games from the ol childhood
podcasts if your into that thing
Flash! Go to browser settings and change plug ins to (on demand) for quicker browsing and flash at your disposal!
Wait until you get uncapped upload speeds.. Oh man are you gonna love this phone!
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great tip on setting the browser to use plug-ins on demand. Probably safer in the event of exploits too.
jjwatmyself said:
Great tip on setting the browser to use plug-ins on demand. Probably safer in the event of exploits too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah plus it keeps all your flash on hand and yet no slow down. Next time an iphone 4 user compares browsing speed you'll blow em away
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
I'm still not getting this stuff. Too many acronyms, too many... other things. I don't think it's meant for me to root this phone. LOL. I need a YouTube video or something. I have no idea what these instructions mean when they're telling to extract certain things in certain places, open certain things, install apk sbf and abc. Exaggerating, of course.
It's been over 7 hours and I haven't gotten any clarity.
Moved from iphone 3gs to my first android (Atrix) also.
I gotta tell you modding jailbroken iphones is very easy and very limited compared to Android phones. Even a stock outta-the-box android phone.
It's probably something like "want even more customizations = more work" for you with an Android.
Gold luck.
Its ok, its a lot to learn all at once. Just keep reading and asking questions and you'll get a grasp real soon. android is really educational and it took me a nexus one to figure it out.
Search for ginger break thats the easiest way so far I think. (sd card mandatory btw)
morejaylesswar said:
I'm still not getting this stuff. Too many acronyms, too many... other things. I don't think it's meant for me to root this phone. LOL. I need a YouTube video or something. I have no idea what these instructions mean when they're telling to extract certain things in certain places, open certain things, install apk sbf and abc. Exaggerating, of course.
It's been over 7 hours and I haven't gotten any clarity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
I'd be interested in a non AT&T branded ROM with app side loading etc. I'd guess that 2.3 will be the next big step though and wouldn't want to exclude myself from being able to upgrade...
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk
CyberPunk7t9 said:
I gotta tell you modding jailbroken iphones is very easy and very limited compared to Android phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, I've noticed that! I thought I knew a hell of a lot when it came to this stuff, but this Android rooting has made me realize that I'm somewhat of a novice. It's never taken me this long to grasp some computer stuff.
I also think it's because I bought my Atrix at full retail price and I don't have insurance. (I have a dealer line with AT&T. They made me provide my own phone.) I don't want to waste that much money if I brick my phone.
ChongoDroid said:
Its ok, its a lot to learn all at once. Just keep reading and asking questions and you'll get a grasp real soon. android is really educational and it took me a nexus one to figure it out.
Search for ginger break thats the easiest way so far I think. (sd card mandatory btw)
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to keep reading and reading because I was referred to gingerbreak before I registered here. That's actually how I got on this site. It seems solid, I just have to figure it out. Reading up on terminology has made it clear to me what an ADB is. I just don't know how to use it.
Question: When I open this ADB file in the SuperOneClick zip, it opens a command prompt, displays some words and junk, an then disappears.
What am I supposed to do with this?
(I'm currently browsing this thead. I just don't have enough posts to post there.)
morejaylesswar said:
Question: When I open this ADB file in the SuperOneClick zip, it opens a command prompt, displays some words and junk, an then disappears.
What am I supposed to do with this?
(I'm currently browsing this thead. I just don't have enough posts to post there.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is why I like using the adb from android sdk. Never liked doing it from oneclick even when I had a captivate. If you have android sdk, you can open a command prompt and cd to adb's folder and use the commands there. You can also make a bat file to make it easier.
If you don't know how to make a bat file, use notepad and type this
@echo off
cmd /k "cd c:\program files\android\android-sdk\platform-tools"
and save it as .bat
Note if you have 64 bit windows, it will be program files (x86)
morejaylesswar said:
I'm still not getting this stuff. Too many acronyms, too many... other things. I don't think it's meant for me to root this phone. LOL. I need a YouTube video or something. I have no idea what these instructions mean when they're telling to extract certain things in certain places, open certain things, install apk sbf and abc. Exaggerating, of course.
It's been over 7 hours and I haven't gotten any clarity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the learning curve is a little steep. Especially if you have never worked with linux before. This helped me a lot with my first android phone. This is for the n1, but most of the info applies to all android phones.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=619153
Return it while you can.
wirednix said:
Return it while you can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol buster...
Anyways I'm pretty sure you don't need to connect to computer for gingerbreak.
Its via an apk.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
ChongoDroid said:
Lol buster...
Anyways I'm pretty sure you don't need to connect to computer for gingerbreak.
Its via an apk.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not correct.
Unless you already have sideloading enabled, you will need to connect the phone to a computer.
BTW, return it while you can.
I got my Atrix and the first night I spent like 3 hours installing gingerblur and a ton of apps. It was GREAT. First android phone. I can't wait for 2.3.
Hey everyone please post the must have desire hd apps that you think are essential. The apps you think show the full potential of the phone....
So Far this is the List I made from the comments
Free Apps:-
-
-HeyTell(Link)
-BubbleUPnP(Link)
-Xda Free(link)
-Facebook(link)
-Hotmail(link)
-iris. (alpha)--> android's SIRI(link)
-Voice Search(link)
-Note Everything(link)
-Opera Mobile Web Browser(link)
-Tweetdeck(link)
-angry birds(link)
-Swype keyboard(link)
-samba filesharing(link)
-whatsapp(link)
-Moboplayer(link)
-GPS Status & Toolbox(link)
-Mx Player(link)
-setcpu(root)(link)
-adfree(root)(link)
-Rom Manager(root)(link)
-A.I.type Keyboard free(link)
-Task List - ToDo List(link)
-YouTube
-APN Backup & Restore(link)
-PowerAMP(link)
-Dolphin Browser(link)
Paid Apps:-
-SPB Shell 3D(Link)
-myUsage(Link)
-Pocket Casts(Link)
-PLayerPro(Link)
-Wave Launcher(link)-TuneIn Radio Pro(link)
- tasker(link)
- root explorer(link)
- titanum backup(link)
- mybackup pro(link)
-cut the rope(link)
- M(mu) torrent remote(link)
- Zedge(link)
- Medscape(link)
- MyPhoneExplorer(link)
- PowerWifi Pro(link)
-GPS Status - Donation(link)
-Paper Camera(link)
-Tapatalk(link)
-Rom Manager Premium(link)
-Thumb Keyboard 4(for people with big fingers)(link)
-Bootmanager(root)(link)
-mx player pro (link)
-Absolute System Root Tools(root)(link)
[/URL]Comment If i missed Something. i will add it later and also please write if the app is paid or free saves me time.
FOR A LIST OF REGULAR APP A LIST ON this
Page made by GrantBarker.
Just a little question, why do you state you have a "Iphone 3gs(Stolen)". Does the fact your telling everyone its stolen increase the size of your ego and make you seem cool?
Sorry if i'm totally wrong and it means something else, but if its what it seems well there is only one word for that.
affinity121 said:
Just a little question, why do you state you have a "Iphone 3gs(Stolen)". Does the fact your telling everyone its stolen increase the size of your ego and make you seem cool?
Sorry if i'm totally wrong and it means something else, but if its what it seems well there is only one word for that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The iPhone was stolen from me I don't get how this has any thing to do with my ego or my coolness :S:S
Sent from my HTC Desire HD using xda premium
rakinisbat said:
The iPhone was stolen from me I don't get how this has any thing to do with my ego or my coolness :S:S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah that seemed a bit uncalled for. i think affinity121 misinterpreted the "stolen" to mean you stole it off someone
some apps i've been recommending to people:
- setcpu
- tasker
- root explorer
- samba filesharing
- adfree
these aren't really DHD specific though, and 4 out of 5 require root and not everyone i've been recommending them to has rooted their phone
Ohh k I get how it could have given ppl the wrong idea tnx both of you for pointing it out and I fixed it.
Sent from my HTC Desire HD using xda premium
You've already tried the roms I would have recommended.
Take a look at my sig and maybe you can choose a few apps from those links.
For me it's mostly essentials like a decent keyboard, browser, screenshot app, barcode scanner, note taker (so you can paint/write on the screen), camera app, launcher, music player, YouTube, Rom Manager, any backup app, study app and stuff that makes your job or life easier in as few a clicks as possible.
Many of the best apps speak for themselves and are very popular. But there must be tons of great stuff that isn't well known yet..
Android wifi sync. Sky news lol,spark
Sent from my HTC Desire HD using XDA App
..........
I wrote the list of my favorite apps on my site (2nd article):
http://projects.lanik.org/AndroidProject.htm
IF u always Look For ROM
Rom Manager is must HAVE !!!
thx for the nice infos
HTC DHD rooted/S-OFF/ENG-OFF
BlackICEv1.00b4 + LordModUE.v7.6b7BFS + OnDemandX
[Radio] 26.13.04.19_M
Swype keyboard, makes typing so much faster.
MyPhoneExplorer to backup everything (and type text messages from the computer).
PowerWifi, turns Wifi on when I put my phone on its stand (or just plug it in), saving data allowance, and also launches MyPhoneExplorer for me, so my phone is always connected to my PC when at home. (turns off wifi when I unplug)
Moboplayer, at least until VLC is out.
Plenty of others I could suggest, but those are the ones I really couldn't do without.
AdFree
Rom Manager
Root Explorer
Titanium Backup
all the above + Pulse
4EXT Recovery
Thanks for tips
Swiftkey X - greatest predictive keyboard I've ever used, especially once it's had time to learn your style. Paid app (worth every penny), but there's a free version in the market that gives you full functionality for a month so there's no excuse not to at least give it a shot.
Don't know what else I'd class as 'essential'; Tweetdeck (twitter/facebook), Tapatalk and Vignette (amazing camera app) are probably my most-used and first-installed, but with the possible exception of Vignette I can't say I'd use them to show off the phone's potential. That's what the ROM's for
Edit: already been mentioned, but Tasker (once you've got your head round it) is great for showing off the kind of automation you can achieve. If you know anyone impressed by that sort of thing.
rakinisbat said:
The iPhone was stolen from me I don't get how this has any thing to do with my ego or my coolness :S:S
Sent from my HTC Desire HD using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree, WTF has this got to do with "coolness" ? ? or anything?
Jeepers, it's his signature, thats all.
Mind you, could be signature police about, yuh never know..lol
matt
titanium backup
affinity121 said:
Just a little question, why do you state you have a "Iphone 3gs(Stolen)". Does the fact your telling everyone its stolen increase the size of your ego and make you seem cool?
Sorry if i'm totally wrong and it means something else, but if its what it seems well there is only one word for that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty obvious what was meant by that.