Database Users

XDA-DEV APP STORE -Discussion

Ok... I know I'm not one of the elite here, but I've been a PPC Admin creating custom ROMs with kitchens for a number of devices for the last 4-5 years. I love this site and everyone here has done an excellent job developing for our devices, but its time we organize this site to make it easy for noobs to get involved in our world. The big problem I see when I try to help people get into WinMo is that its really hard for them to find the right apps and previews of what is possible to do. The biggest complaint I have from friends who use this site is that there are often different threads for the same app and often they download the older version by mistake. I also see what happens to developers like A_C who have their apps ripped off and sold as a "bundle of freeware apps". Its wrong and I'd hate to see him or any of the other developers not get credit for their hard work.
So here is what I'm proposing... Why don't we create an app store right here where free and for pay apps can conveniently and easily be searched and organized. We could even setup rss feeds for the different applications so people could be notified when a new version or even a update to the thread has occurred. I know Microsoft is coming out with their app store, but come on. when have they gotten anything right for a community at this level of capability right at the start?
Either way.. I think it would be a great idea for us to build this and expand the Win Mo community. Thanks everyone for your hard work.
Feel free to comment.

Using RSS from a new sub-forum that XDA could setup would allow a dev to pull the threads and information. If they're formatted properly before submitted to the App Store forum, the first post in the thread could be App's description and preview including any youtube previews. The second post would have the cab file.
There would also be a string of text in the first post which would define device compatibilities so Raphael users don't try and download Kaiser specific software and vice-versa
A pre-approval process would take place in a seperate forum and PPC veterans and forum senior members could assist in evaluating the posts as well as the software?
I see a more community based solution in this idea. Very nice. BUT.. will it happen? I'm no longer in the programming side of the biz, but if someone could come up with an app that would take the RSS from a forum, I could setup a test forum on a site I run just for proof of concept. Anyone interested?

Sounds like a great idea! I think a forum isnt the best solution for the matter but at least there would be some kind of order...
(App2Date support for more programs would be helpful then as well)

I only say forum because this database is already in place, easily tweaked (I run a few vBulletin sites so I know how easy it can be) and the authors can update their applications easily without having to reinvent the wheel from the ground up. With the proper required fields we could easily organize everything nicely

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=488610

okay that sounds better.. im not experimenting with forums much
is is possible to filter things then? i cant really picture it
when i look for an app i always download all available of a kind (e.g. 5 minesweeper) and in the end not even 1 works ^^

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=480476
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=436127
why not have 3 more...

i think before u can update ur apps u first need 2 download them... and in order to do that u need to find them first and thats what this thread is mainly about
have u ever heard about apple app store? its not about selling devices whatsoever but to FIND SOFTWARE (easily)

Yep, there are a few being built already, but maybe a more "Official" one would get more development and community support?
Here's another one too: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=471576
I'd really like to see one of these Appstore ideas to also track UI customizations. I can't tell you the number of hours I've spent reading through hundreds of posts to find the perfect SPB Mobile Shell UI... lol.

I have tried all of the above mentioned 'portals' and I use DeviceUpdate, but it's the same 97 or 98 apps! This would be a direct tie-in to this site. Developers could submit their apps to the community for approval and they'd be moved into the proper section of the app 'vault' and would instantly be available in the Mobile Application which would generate its list via a direct RSS of the App Vault forum..
Why create a new database and userbase when XDA's is already so huge?

I second, third and forth this request. XDA dev's deserve a store for app releases and use the forum as a dev/feedback forum.. Vbulletin can only do so much... If revenue sharing is the major hurdle I would hope the webmaster can work out an agreement with the devs who want to submit apps. Another hurdle could potentially be copyright infringements.. Unofficial ROM's and other promoted/sold "clone-apps" could bring unwanted publicity to the site. This simple chaotic forum might be the perfect element to keep XDA under the corporate radar and safe from hungry lawyers.

norkoastal said:
I second, third and forth this request. XDA dev's deserve a store for app releases and use the forum as a dev/feedback forum.. Vbulletin can only do so much... If revenue sharing is the major hurdle I would hope the webmaster can work out an agreement with the devs who want to submit apps. Another hurdle could potentially be copyright infringements.. Unofficial ROM's and other promoted/sold "clone-apps" could bring unwanted publicity to the site. This simple chaotic forum might be the perfect element to keep XDA under the corporate radar and safe from hungry lawyers.
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I disagree that 'vbulletin can only do so much'.. XDA-Developers.com even uses a basic 'stock' theme.. this site isn't customized very much and is a very basic implementation of the software. An app on the phones that pull the information from a sub forum of this site could load up previews, videos and the download links. If you want to add in 'dontation' links, that's also possible, but I think that's better left to PCs.
I agree that staying 'under the radar' is essential, but being able to access all of the software that can greatly improve your device from anywhere at a moments notice is key... I'm currently browsing to a forum on my phone to get a piece of software and it's taking at least 3 minutes to do it when I can get there in less than 10 seconds on the PC.. put this stuff in an app and I won't even need the PC other than to find the dev and discussion threads....
I see vBulletin in a different light from just a chat enabler.. but it might be because I know the back end so well.

l3it3r said:
I disagree that 'vbulletin can only do so much'.. XDA-Developers.com even uses a basic 'stock' theme.. this site isn't customized very much and is a very basic implementation of the software. An app on the phones that pull the information from a sub forum of this site could load up previews, videos and the download links. If you want to add in 'dontation' links, that's also possible, but I think that's better left to PCs.
I agree that staying 'under the radar' is essential, but being able to access all of the software that can greatly improve your device from anywhere at a moments notice is key... I'm currently browsing to a forum on my phone to get a piece of software and it's taking at least 3 minutes to do it when I can get there in less than 10 seconds on the PC.. put this stuff in an app and I won't even need the PC other than to find the dev and discussion threads....
I see vBulletin in a different light from just a chat enabler.. but it might be because I know the back end so well.
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All valid points, but if the webmaster has no desire to expand this sites complexity, who are we to say add this n that when we are typing on a yellow/brown forum with minimal VB enhancements (no knock to XDA ).
What I see working is XDA allow a spin-off site which is the visual/functional app paradise we all crave.. The alter ego of Cydia and the evil empire. All discussion/dev related questions feed to their respective XDA threads. XDA mods can then port the data to XDA-apps when they feel the release is deemed safe. Developers who want more press/ad exposure pony up $$, and can then charge for more fully functioning software... I dont think anyone doesn't want an app store, its will you get official XDA muscle behind it?

There's a way to charge for threads, so if people want to sell the apps, they need to buy a premium spot for it on the XDA App listing.. *boom!* XDA is interested!
If a spin-off site is required, then that's cool, I'd be really interested in assisting with it. It would be possible to use the same user database.

Thanks everyone for opening feedback on this topic. I think we should look further into finding a way to make this happen. Any volunteers? l3it3r and Norkoastal have done a good job in taking the lead on this so far. How do you feel about making it happen Norkoastal andl3it3r's?

I would recommend getting some official support from XDA before beginning to compile resources for this effort. I really think there should be input from the owner/mods here who want to see this happen, & also get their take on maintaining the upkeep of this proposed rollout. I would be glad to throw my two pesos in, but wouldn't want to step on any toes or other efforts already in process, namely gecko..

I will be releasing a new more complete version of this very soon. Its a freewarepocketpc.net client working off the existing database online.

That's sweet! I use fwppc all the time because it's easy to navigate on the phone. I still think that XDA is the #1 name in Windows mobile development and that we could truly shine, but what if we were able to come up with a publicly agreed standard for thread creation down to the descriptions and layouts. Could you tie in an RSS feed from an XDA forum into that?

That's exactly what I was thinking l3it3r. A standardization for this site that is just setup for apps. If rss feeds were tied into it anyone could build an app that could go out and find the latest updates for their subscribed applications. Noobs wouldn't know about the applications used for downloading apps, but would know generally how to view a web forum. Its all about making it easier for the noobs to get interested in exploring the capabilities of WM and not to intimidate them. A good standardization of the layout would go a long way to expanding the user base and increase interest in our work.
What do you guys think?

With all things considered, I think it is better if this is done as a separate site as Napbree has done for finger friendly apps (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=380748).
So if any legal issues should arise or site adjustments/enhancements that needs to be made, it can be dealt independently from XDA. This also can bring apps from other places into attention that isn't developed within XDA.

Looking for a DEV who would like to create a forum App

The forum in question is Honda-tech.com. A honda enthusiast forum (the largest of its kind). Lots and lots of users on there who would love to access the site through an app and benefit from not having to go through their mobile browsers. A large diversity of iOS and Android users as well.
The topic of an app has been discussed on the forum plenty of times but no one has taken the initiative to actually look into getting one made. I though I would post on the dev site(s) to see if anyone would like to create an app. I am somewhat adept at the Android OS but not so much as far as app dev goes. I have no clue as to how hard this task would be, however if anyone is interested in creating something like this please let me know and maybe we can get this ball rolling.
Also, tapatalk has been discussed but an app is preferred.
Thanks guys.

problem solved

I'm planning on attempting to make a forum app for bungie.net once done shouldn't be hard to adapt to other forums.
Won't be as fast as tapatalk bc I assume they use a custom spy, y they need form support. Could be wrong. Tapatalk is a nice app.

I made a site a while ago that basically works the same way as tapatalk, but with more functionality so it would function like an app you launched through your browser. You can filter out images, specific people, set the OP to be in a separate column, and more. Since it was a website it used cURL so the initial load was rather slow but it also caches all of the pages locally and on the server so load times were pretty minimal after the first grab. It doesn't require any modification on the forum's end but it only reads vBulletin as of now (it could probably be adapted though). I haven't checked, but it should work for any mobile device with a decent browser (Android, iOS, Opera Mobile 10+) and it could possibly be made into an app. This was part of a large project I was working on but got burnt out on so I am not sure what all needs to be finished. PM me if that is interesting.

I would love to see an example of this, it doesnt have to be made into an app, if it functions in browser would be good enough. Porting over to an app would require alot of work, tho the logic would be helpful.

+1 for honda tech app...
Make one for socalcivic.com also..
Ep3

Would love to see a forum app for http://ubuntuforums.org/ also, so would a lot of other people:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1513906

Feedback for Desire HD webpage

Hey Guys,
I fell in love with my new Desire HD recently so I've just started building a hobby website and it will have a few pages or resources for the HTC Desire HD.
It's far from finished or optimized but I'm happy to host any related files or ROMS if it helps any of You or the Community out..
Please let me know what you think it should include. In time I hope it will have many Desire HD resources and links and quite a few Android things too.
Any criticism is welcome - I'm more after function as opposed to fashion. Cheers.
Feel free to PM me with advice. I'm sure XDA doesn't need a thread about my personal site, Desire HD related or not.
Grant

Stunds like a good idea. Put up some guides on rooting and roms. Gonna root my dhd now in the holidays when I get some spare time over
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App

If you have a disassembly guide i would be very happy.
Afaik there is no one (searched with google and YouTube)
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk

Nice website with good user friendly design
Would like to more apps in the "andorid" section of the site such as Springpad or Tunein Radio.

When were at it with audio apps I would recommend subsonic. If you want to stream your music library
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App

if you want more apps inbox me as i have in excess of 5 Gb worth to be added on
depends if you have enough space on the server for lots of them

and because im nice and have ALOT of free time on my hands at the moment, if you need and resources and building let me know and im sure i can provide you with what your looking for (such as guides or articles about things for the DHD, )

Thanks for the ideas and feedback so far guys.
Defectus: Yes. I'll put up some recommended Guides on Rooting and Roms. This will help me learn too. I'll check out Subsonic as well. Feel free to suggest any other apps you are passionate about, if and when.
malte41: If I see a Disassembly Guide - I'll certainly add it - if the maker doesn't mind. (or I'll link to it). Cheers.
karthics4: Thanks. I'll certainly be adding more apps in the Android section. (I'm trying to get hold of some beta programs too so I can maybe do a review or two.) Keep the app ideas coming if you want. I'll try them out too.
fkofilee: Thanks. Server space or bandwidth shouldn't be a problem. (Unlimited) I'm not sure if I will host other people's apps. I'm happy to, if it's easier for the end user/visitor, but I want to also stay true to the Android Market so people can always get the latest app version. Having said that - I'll keep an eye on updates and attempt to keep everything up to date. Thanks for your offer. I'm certainly open to suggestions and links to resources and helpful info.
Feel free to email me at any time from the site or through XDA or even this thread etc.
Also, thanks to the ROM makers whom quite a few have given me permission to host their roms.
I'm hoping to change this username to Grant Barker (which I've registered) so please don't be offended if my name changes in this thread or somewhere else. It depends on the mood of the Gods. I mean the Mods.
Anyway, thanks for the advice. Please feel free to keep it coming. I don't have as much free time as I'd like - so please be patient and I'll get things done as soon as I can. (This includes dead links, no links, image optimizations, broken CSS etc.) Your feedback inspires me more, so I appreciate it.
Cheers.
Grant

If you want some tips on some games.
2 player reactor
Angry birds (of course)
Spaghetti and marshmallows
reckless racing
Skies of glory
ScummWM
M.I.G
Cheers
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App

[MOD] [THINKTANK] Building TaintDroid in a ZTE Blade Kernel

It would be great if TaintDroid could also be integrated in a Blade ROM.
ZTE Blade users, please show you're support if you also wish to see TaintDroid implemented in Custom ROM for your device.
webstas said:
A project for our Kernel devs maybe? i found this in the I9000 Forums and though i might keep it going over here in the Vibrant quadrant of XDA.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=812879
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Click to collapse
vasra said:
Most people don't yet know that many Android software leak all sorts of information to the internet with only scant user acknowledgement (basically what you accept when you install the app).
Due to this and the fact that there are already privacy information harvesting apps for Android on the marketplace - a team of security experts have created TaintDroid:
What is TaintDroid?
From the project's web page: "A realtime monitoring service called TaintDroid that precisely analyses how private information is obtained and released by applications "downloaded" to consumer phones."
From: http://appanalysis.org/index.html
How can I install TaintDroid?
As TaintDroid is currently compiled into the kernel, you cannot easily install it, but you have to cook your own kernel. Instructions (for Nexus 1) are available at the project web site: http://appanalysis.org/download.html
How does TaintDroid work?
Here's a video demonstrating how TaintDroid works once it is installed and configured:
http://appanalysis.org/demo/index.html
Why would you want to install this?
There can be many reasons for installint TaintDroid:
- You want to learn about privacy features and play with Android kernel
- As it is currently impossible to differentiate between innocent and sneaky Android apps based only on what access rights they request, you may want to dig in deeper
- You are worried about what apps are doing behind your back and you want to know which apps to uninstall
- You want to help create Android a more secure and privacy-protected platform, instead of the swiss cheese it currently is
What can you do?
As compiling kernels is mostly beyond the reach of mere mortals currently, consider cooking TaintDroid into your kernel, if you are cooking one yourself and offering it available for others to try and use.
Hopefully increased awareness and usage will bring this program eventually into other modders and perhaps even Google's attention and something more easily accessible is offered for the public at large.
BTW, I'm just a user, interested in getting TaintDroid on my own Galaxy S. I'm not affiliated with the research program, but I like what they are doing. This information is purely FYI.
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Click to collapse
ps: Sorry for replication but as this suggestion/request is taken up specifically for the ZTE Blade device, I thought it would be appropriate to duplicate the previous posts.

[Q] My board as an Android App?

Hello there,
i'm the owner of a small board with just onenor two thousand active users and they always try to force me to "invent" an application for their mobile phones to access my forum. Since i have an Android phone, most of my users have Android and Android is easier to publish and create, i decided to look for an App for my forum for Android devices!
I don't know much about programming and coding, so i googled for some kind of a building tool, but didn't find anything. I want to make my forum accessable from Android devices! The tool, if something like that exists, should not end up in a final 100% perfect version of my board.
I'm happy about every single answer you guys are able to give!
Best regards
Poly

Research tapatalk.

Already heard about tapatalk, but doesn't the user download the tapatalk app to access my forum? I would appreciate an app which shows my board icon and name...
What about Google Appinventor? Is it easy to work myself into?
Btw i don't want to pay for this project, since my members also won't pay for the app!

Tapatalk can be a dedicated single forum app. For example look at the XDA forum app. That's based on the tapatalk framework. Its definitely the way to go.
Sent from my HTC HD2 using XDA App

I know, but on the Tapatalk Website a single app for my forum costs for a lot of money for android as well as for iOS.