Why are so many apps incompatible? - Nexus 7 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I'm writing an article on the Nexus 7 and Jelly Bean, and I wonder if someone with more coding knowledge could help me out with something.
I'm wondering why so many apps are listed as "incompatible" with the Nexus 7. Is it the device configuration, or something to do with the way the apps are coded? Why would an app like NBA JAM work on a Galaxy Nexus but not a Nexus 7?

I think it's the default screen DPI value screwing things up.
Sent from my Galaxy S III

TheBiles said:
I think it's the default screen DPI value screwing things up.
Sent from my Galaxy S III
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would cause apps to be listed as "incompatible" in the Play Store?
How can developers make apps more widely compatible? Shouldn't the Android SDK responsive design features take care of that?
Thanks!

A lot of the applications that are listed as incompatible are in fact compatible if side loaded onto the device, bypassing the Play Store.
I don't want to assume you are new to Android but usually within 2-4 weeks of a new Android OS launch, more applications will become compatible in the Play Store.

Nexcellent said:
A lot of the applications that are listed as incompatible are in fact compatible if side loaded onto the device, bypassing the Play Store.
I don't want to assume you are new to Android but usually within 2-4 weeks of a new Android OS launch, more applications will become compatible in the Play Store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been a Nexus user for a few years now, so I know that eventually apps will be updated, although it's always pretty annoying in the beginning. I'm just trying to understand better what developers have to do in order to make apps compatible with new devices and new versions of Android.

Many also show incompatible (such as Amazon) because they require a rear camera. They work fine when sideloaded (as mentioned above) but force close when trying to access the camera.

There's a build property for "highest version of android that this app will work for". Google advises against using it in the documentation, but a lot of devs set the max version to ICS anyway. Expect it to be corrected as more people get JB

Related

App shows in Android market but not Nexus market

The app titled: "Scriptures (beta)" shows up in my G1's market, but does not in my Nexus' market.
Any ideas what's going on?
Did you do any of the following to your Nexus One:
1. Unlocked bootloader?
2. Enable root?
If so, "Scriptures (Beta)" is a *protected* Android application and will not show up.
If not, then it's a OS "support" version issue.
Cheers,
Kermee
Kermee said:
Did you do any of the following to your Nexus One:
1. Unlocked bootloader?
2. Enable root?
If so, "Scriptures (Beta)" is a *protected* Android application and will not show up.
If not, then it's a OS "support" version issue.
Cheers,
Kermee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My new N1 is not unlocked/rooted, but my old G1 *is*. But it's the G1 that sees the app fine, and the new N1 does not.
Must be an OS support issue.
I downloaded the app directly from the author's website and it works fine.
mdaddy said:
My new N1 is not unlocked/rooted, but my old G1 *is*. But it's the G1 that sees the app fine, and the new N1 does not.
Must be an OS support issue.
I downloaded the app directly from the author's website and it works fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. If that's the case, the author needs to fix it and update it on Android Market.
It's annoying for us developers and the damn manifest and API target/limits when "new" stuff comes out... *Sigh*
Anyrate, good deal you got around it!
Cheers,
Kermee
application compatibility
Your phone is listed as a 2.1 device in the market, and if the apps don't specify compatibility (they introduced a compatibility layer in 2.0.1) then they won't show up since they won't work anyway (well, they might, but the general assumption is that they won't)
I guess that explains why AppManager Pro isn't showing up for me on my N1. Annoying. I love that app.
This explains why, when people were talking about Nexus One Torch and I decided to see what it was, my G1 couldn't see it. Now I have a Nexus I can (and it's good )
There are some errors I think, because I want Bonsai Blast which I think I remember was demo'd by the Bonsai Blast google developer for either droid or 2.1. I think it was a demo for the new resolution, so I know it can't be that, and I don't think a google Dev would forget to update his extremely popular app.
Let the application owners know!
When the moto droid came out, I emailed a few developers and some even came out with an update the very next day!
syntrix said:
Let the application owners know!
When the moto droid came out, I emailed a few developers and some even came out with an update the very next day!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can somebody e-mail the developer of Bonsai blast then please? or tell me his/her/their name(s)/email?
If we take the conservative assumption that it must be listed on the Google's own market place before it would work on Nexus, how many applications are available at the moment? Is there good statistics on that yet?
Perhaps most of them would work on Nexus one anyway? Love to hear from people who have tried using the applications written for the older OS version and see if they are generally still compatible. It's hard to imagine how a version upgrade would upset the older applications too much.
eaglesteve said:
If we take the conservative assumption that it must be listed on the Google's own market place before it would work on Nexus, how many applications are available at the moment? Is there good statistics on that yet?
Perhaps most of them would work on Nexus one anyway? Love to hear from people who have tried using the applications written for the older OS version and see if they are generally still compatible. It's hard to imagine how a version upgrade would upset the older applications too much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really the only set-back is the resolution. All of the hardware has exponentially increased. All of Androids apps are written in java, which is pretty standard and should have no problem running on all android platforms.
The only time it should be disallowed would be if a game were to be written for the N1 specs (which cannot run on the G1), and therefore not shown in the market for the G1.
I suppose developers don't want their games to look too pixelated on the N1 until they update the resolutions. It's a waiting game now, since there are absolutely NO games available unless you want to play solitaire.
Or you could email the devs to death requesting an update...

COMPARISON: Purchasing Apps from Samsung Apps Store versus Android Market

Is it advisable to purchase any particular app from the Samsung App Store or should one buy it from the Android Market?
In my opinion, one should prefer to buy any particular app from the android market rather than Samsung Appstore which is yet to grow with even basic professional relevance!!!
I am saying this after I have had this experience...
Last week I bought SPLASHTOP REMOTE DESKTOP from Samsung App store on my Galaxy Note for about 0.99 USD. There were few noticeable differences:
First thing I immediately noticed was that the version I downloaded (1.6.0.5) was OLDER than the corresponding one available (1.6.5.6) on Android Market.
Still I preferred to buy the app from Samsung App store as it was much cheaper (0.99 USD) as compared to the one available on android market (USD 4.99).
Just two days after this I noticed the CERAMIC WHITE model of NOTE and of course could not resist the temptation of owning it, so gifted my (erstwhile) dark blue NOTE to my bro (after factory resetting it!!!, which my bro is now using with all his relevant google/samsung account credentials!!)
And this is where I learnt that because I "changed" my device, I can not REDOWNLOAD my "purchased" app from SAMSUNG APP STORE despite regitering with same Samsung Apps account!!. This is so very weird, as I have been seamlessly transitioning my all apps to my all new devices just by ensuring that I have the same google/android account registered on my new device.
I tried to restore my app through Kies, but in vain, then I tried to get in touch with customer support at Sumsung App Store and which is when I noticed that that they have a very LOUSY and LAME UI, that just leads no where.
Needless to mention, I purchased the app again, but this time from the android market. Although I had to shell out USD 4.99 (instead of 0.99), I find its worth it as now I have a app, that is LATEST VERSION (yes, in this example of splashtop, it has significant change of opting for custom resolution of native device), and that I will be able to use on as long as I want, even after I move over to any new device (of course there is nothing better than Galaxy Note as of now!!).
So in conclusion, Samsung App store SUCKS while Android Market is far much ahead. Thus in my opinion, assuming all fundamentals remain uniform, its better to purchase an APP from ANDROID MARKET rather that Samsung App Store!!!
Go on getjar.com and download the getjar app. Follow this link getjar.com/mobile/76092/splashtop-r...1exu1ijoujnhdvyb&c=byosqnnawl4xis5cC9&lang=en and you'll have it for free.
Personally I uninstall getjar afterwards as it is running as service in the background.
As these paid apps are offered for free they are not updated by the android market.
tap*talked via GT-N7000 (GB.XXLA4)
It is simple thing, Samsung application can be redownloaded to Samsung device only, (and it is even more strange when it not supports change of device.)
Android purchase will work with any Android device, if you change in future, as it is linked to your Gmail.
And thats Y i think, samsung store provides somwat cheaper thn Android Market. But in long term it cost more.
Very right dr.ketan, its indeed strange that it does not support device change too even if one changes to a different device of Samsung make!! And that's why I reiterate that although on one end they make superb devices as NOTE, on the other end soft serves like their app store, their kies... lack professional relevance
I wish Samsung guys are serious enough to listen to the forum members and take all this as feedback to improve their soft services with needful
"And this is where I learnt that because I "changed" my device, I can not REDOWNLOAD my "purchased" app from SAMSUNG APP STORE despite regitering with same Samsung Apps account!!"
For me, the solution to this is... If I buy something, I own it (which is why I don't buy apple). I can make a back up of CD's, DVD's etc.. that I have paid for. It is the same with apps. I don't care if I'm slated/criticised/abused, after I have bought an app I will find an apk on the net as a backup should I change my phone or flash it. or use 'app backup and restore'.
I have spent far too much time in the past with customer (don't)care trying to find out if they would let me redownload apps I have purchased when I change my phone..
If i purchase an App from Android Market.... And if i change my phone say after 2 years OR Hard Reset, will i still be able to download it to my new phone just by login into my google account? Also, for how long does the developer provide update once purchased an app...
craige said:
If i purchase an App from Android Market.... And if i change my phone say after 2 years OR Hard Reset, will i still be able to download it to my new phone just by login into my google account? Also, for how long does the developer provide update once purchased an app...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I have experienced, you may change or hard reset you device unlimited times and still you will continue to enjoy the benefits of being a licensed user of the app, and thus you will be able to download it unlimited times, as long as you continue to have android OS and the same GOOGLE account.
As far as developers support is concerned, I have no precise idea on this, although I feel the support depends on developers commitment to the product. May be I should add here that as I have seen in last 2 years (ever since I am using android) I have been getting updates to my older apps even now, if at all there is a newer version.
Even on the Android market you can have trouble if either google or the developer remove the paid app or release a different version then the old app you purchased is no longer there so if you change your device then you are stuffed and either have to purchase your asp again or you won't get it. For example see the dice player which had paid versions but google removed it and now only free advertisement supported version is available.see comments section for the asp where paid customers are cribbing that now they can't instal paid app on new phone.
Loads of other examples like train times UK app had free version two years ago without ads but later was removed and new paid version came up but when you get new phone then the old asp no longer existson the market.

[Q] Nexus Q apk?

for w/e reason it's not letting me find the app in Google Play. perhaps my ROM (AOPK)
does anyone know a way to get the apk? I just got my Nexus q
update:
I installed Jelly Bean and was able to download it
If the apk isn't locked to your device (with the encryption they announced at I/O) - can you post it? I'd love to have a peek inside!
Questions go in the Q&A section - not the Dev section
The google play description of the nexus q app claims that will work on anything with gingerbread and above, the app right now appears to only work and be listed for jelly bean devices
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
I installed a JellyBean Rom on my Verizon Galaxy Nexus for it to work.
here is the apk from a Titanium Backup it probably wont work lol but you never know
http://db.tt/Gf1AZApt
Thanks for posting the apk. I was unable to get it from the Play store as it's unavailable in Canada at the moment (seems silly, but whatever). I installed the app from your link and it works great! I'm listening to music on my Q as I type this.
glad to hear it actually works. I had my friend try it out on his G2x with no luck so I wasn't sure
davefp said:
Thanks for posting the apk. I was unable to get it from the Play store as it's unavailable in Canada at the moment (seems silly, but whatever). I installed the app from your link and it works great! I'm listening to music on my Q as I type this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is yours android version?
Crud, I just bought a Q on E-Bay thinking I would get it quicker (it was also about $100 cheaper) than waiting for Google to ship me one but the APK won't install on my Bionic running the leaked ICS build. The Q application in the Play Store also says it's not compatible with either of my devices (the other being a Xoom running ICS) even though the description says it's compatible with Gingerbread and above. I assume that when the Q actually starts shipping they will fix this issue with the market application but my brilliant plan to get a Q sooner will be for naught!
I know its ridiculous but part of me is tempted to go buy a Nexus 7 or Galaxy Nexus off of Ebay so I'll have something to control this with when it gets here!
bobukcat said:
Crud, I just bought a Q on E-Bay thinking I would get it quicker (it was also about $100 cheaper) than waiting for Google to ship me one but the APK won't install on my Bionic running the leaked ICS build. The Q application in the Play Store also says it's not compatible with either of my devices (the other being a Xoom running ICS) even though the description says it's compatible with Gingerbread and above. I assume that when the Q actually starts shipping they will fix this issue with the market application but my brilliant plan to get a Q sooner will be for naught!
I know its ridiculous but part of me is tempted to go buy a Nexus 7 or Galaxy Nexus off of Ebay so I'll have something to control this with when it gets here!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would just wait or else buy a Galaxy Nexus. My kids have Galaxy Nexus phones so I just rooted theirs and installed JB to work with my Nexus Q. The original shipments of the Nexus Q were supposed to ship 2-3 weeks from Google I/O so the app should be available anytime.
I think it is dumb for Google to not have it available now. If I was a developer who got it free I would want to be able to try it out with my friends. After all it is supposed to be a social media device. It restricts the social aspect if it is only available on JB devices.
btmec said:
I would just wait or else buy a Galaxy Nexus. My kids have Galaxy Nexus phones so I just rooted theirs and installed JB to work with my Nexus Q. The original shipments of the Nexus Q were supposed to ship 2-3 weeks from Google I/O so the app should be available anytime.
I think it is dumb for Google to not have it available now. If I was a developer who got it free I would want to be able to try it out with my friends. After all it is supposed to be a social media device. It restricts the social aspect if it is only available on JB devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if they have it restricted to JB to try to prevent developers from selling theirs, if so I don't think it's working very well based on the number of them on eBay - LOL.
I'm going to be really bummed later this week when I get my Q and have nothing to control it with though.
I wonder if the problem is just the API level it's looking for or if there is something actually missing in ICS that prevents it from running properly with the current build.
Pretty sure it is somehow country specific in Play.
I was unable to install the apk to my JB Nexus 7 which I got at I/O. Being at home in Sweden. I was also unable to install it on my ICS Gnexus with a Telenor sim-card. I was however able to install it on my JB Gnexus (the one I got at I/O) which had my T-mobile sim-card.
I purchased two of these devices on ebay.
But I can't use them because I don't have JB device!
The above APK did not work on a rooted AT&T Galaxy Note with ICS.
I called and talked to google, and they said the non-JB package would be released when the product ships.
Just received the one I bought off of eBay and it sure is pretty - too bad I can't use it yet!
Any developer that can get the apk working on ICS before the official release from Google would get an automatic and significant donation from me (as well as my eternal gratitude)!
Despite my incredible lack of experience (absolutely 0) I did manage to get the apk to install on a couple ICS devices after modifying the manifest, rebuilding, resigning and re validating it (I will add my thanks to all the people's tools I used to do this later, I promise!!). I have it running on my unlocked and rooted LTE Xoom with the released ICS build and my Bionic running locked and unrooted leaked ICS. Both are a bit flakey however and both are telling me I need to update the Play Music application even though I've manually upgraded both to the 4.3.605 build. I did manage to get them to go through the network setup page and say it connected, showed services as Movies and YouTube but then both show it unavailable. I've reset the Q a couple of times and went back through the setup but so far I still can't manage it from either device. Right now my brain is cooked so I'll have to try it again tomorrow afternoon! Thanks for everyone here for their amazing contributions, I really hope the Q becomes a legend in Android history (in a very good way).
Ok, this is the APK on my rooted Verizon GNex, I'm using a ROM with JB to control my Q.
Hope it helps...
Well, I'm still stuck in the same place as yesterday but I decided to upload my modified APK in case anyone wants to try it on their ICS device.
WARNING!! I don't know what I'm doing and only managed to get this far thanks to awesome tools from others - use this file at your own risk!!!!!!!!!
If anyone can look at this thing and figure out why it won't let me connect to the Q after initial connection that would be awesome but I'm guessing that's not very likely either.
Thanks to: Kornyone his awesome work so far and telling me that changing the manifest got it working on his ICS device, Raziel123x for the Apk Multi-tool I used to sign this after modifying it and to iBotPeaches and Brut.all for the apktools. I apologize if I'm making you look bad with my unsuccessful efforts to use your excellent work.
Well, I've made a little bit of progress as I can now connect to the Q and change some rudimentary settings like HDMI, Optical, Brightness, etc. but it still tells me I need to upgrade the Play Music application, takes me to the Play Store and that of course tells me I have the latest build. Neither the Play Music or YouTube applications have the little button at the top to make it play on the Q. I also don't see anywhere to enable USB debugging as some others have been able to do, I was going to unlock it but can't access it via ADB without debugging turned on. Am I just missing that option somewhere else in the menu? It's not covered in the help topics at all.
I'm slightly pleased with myself for even getting it to install and connect but now I'm stuck again. :crying:
Any suggestions (other than buying a JB device or just waiting for the official app from el goog)?
bobukcat said:
Well, I'm still stuck in the same place as yesterday but I decided to upload my modified APK in case anyone wants to try it on their ICS device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still doesn't work on my T989 Galaxy S2 running ICS :crying:
Uxorious said:
Still doesn't work on my T989 Galaxy S2 running ICS :crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It won't even install?

First Time Android Buyer

Hey guys, I'm new to the forums and I will be new to Android when my N7 ships hopefully soon.
I'm an Apple guy. I've had every iPhone and iPad. Currently rocking the 4S and iPad 3. Both on iOS 6.0 beta 2. I have also jailbroken every iPhone and iPad to customize it more, something XDA seems tailored to. I have never wanted to switch away from my iPhone because I enjoy it and honestly I haven't been impressed with many Android phone, until ICS. Now with Jelly bean 4.1, Android looks really solid, smooth, and mature. So I really want to give it a try. Again I don't want to switch phones and deal with all the carrier BS (bloatware, locked down, slow/no updates, etc) then Google unveiled the Nexus 7 for $200! So now for fairly cheap I can get a state-of-the-art Android device running 4.1, try a 7" tablet, and keep my iPhone.
So now my question is about unlocking/rooting the N7. With Android being as "open" as it is ie., being able to install non-app store apps, what's the benefits to rooting a Nexus device with no bloatware and the most up-to-date Android version? From my understanding the main reason people root their devices is to update their phone or to remove bloatware installed by the carriers.
Are there apps that you can only install if you are rooted? Are there more or less security issues with being rooted?
Rooting is awesome for many reasons, superuser rights (aka being able to play with files and commands that you don't have access to normally), but my main use for with a rooted phone is to freeze processes that I don't use, example i have handcent sms, so i usually freeze the sms client built into android.
Welcome to Android. I think you chose the right device to test the water. Not too expensive, while able to show off Android capabilities without the extra layer of crapps that manufacturers and mobile operators tend to add. I for one would be very interested in your first impressions and how you think IOS and Android compares over time.
In response to your question: some applications only work on rooted devices. Examples: Titanium backup, ROM Manager, some apps to get rid of ads within free apps, etc. But you don't need to root. I never rooted my tablet, and didn't find a reason to root my Nexus phone until very recently (for Titanium backup), but all my previous phones are rooted mostly to enable tethering, which is not disabled in the Nexus anyway.
After spending some time reading your post, the main reason to root in my opinion is to allow the installation of kernels and custom ROMs. Of course you can get some amazing apps through rooting, i.e. titanium backup and wifikill.
Making an experience tailored for you seems to be the main selling point of Android, and rooting allows you customization to the EXTREME.
I root my android devices to flash custom roms. Stock android is fantastic but teams like cyanogenmod and aokp take stock to the next level with tweaks that just add to the customization of the roms you are on. Some of the tweaks aren't mind blowing but still fun to play with. You can overclock your device to use all the processor's power, at the expense of your battery of course. You can use root only apps such as titanium backup or wifi tether. There are many more root only apps but those are the 2 off the top of my head. There are many advantages to rooting even if you are on a stock android device. just look around and do a little research see if you're interested Rooting isn't for everyone. Good luck and welcome to the forums.
Sent from my EVO using xda premium
kisrita said:
I for one would be very interested in your first impressions and how you think IOS and Android compares over time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure I'll write a review of the Nexus 7 after a few weeks, then maybe I'll do a Android from an iOS user post as well. Thanks for all the other advice guys, I'm sure I'll root it at some point just to try it, I'm a bit of a tinkerer.
I believe root is also necessary if you want to use otg usb storage with the stickmount app. This allows you to attach a usb/microsd card, greatly increasing storage space
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
I've had my N7 for a few days now and I'm really enjoying it so far. I really like the 7" size and the weight as compared to the iPad. Battery seems really good to. I have it rooted and working on getting a launcher setup that I like.
The app selection is TERRIBLE when compared to iOS, that for sure. I can't find a good twitter client or Google reader app.
From My Nexus 7
I haven't had the opportunity to compare available apps in both stores, but I keep hearing that comment. I haven't had trouble finding an app when I needed one, of course that might be because I'm not aware of everything that could be available. As an examples, I don't know what you mean by google reader. An ebook reader? News reader? Search engine? Something else? I can't help with twitter apps, I never understood what people need that for, I never tried it... Too old I guess... But since twitter is well known, there must be one among the half million apps in the play store? Perhaps its not yet compatible with Jelly Bean?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Welcome to the Android world.
Like you I have been using IOS (as well as Android.. so not totally new to Android at all..).. every iPhone up to the 4S
I think the arrival of the Nexus has brought over a few from IOS, JB has helped with that... the one thing I heard from many who complained Android wasn't for them was they found it "clunky" and not as refined as an IOS device, I think the N7 has changed and will change that perception.
As mentioned already you will find Android Apps not as good overall compared to IOS (my opinion anyway.. especially games if you are a gamer) but I think you will love that fact you have have more control of your OS (instead of waiting for the Dev team to release the lastest jailbreak using Redsnow etc..) and you can say goodbye to horrible bloatware iTunes lol
Have you tried to tether from iPhone to the Nexus yet?? Reason I ask is I had a Samsung tablet and my 4s wouldn't connect to it, something to do with being an adhoc connection (although I think there is ways around this..) I know my Galaxy Ace connects no probs and has a great speed while tethering to the Nexus.
Enjoy your Nexus
I had problems tethering my N7 to my iPad 3, until I restarted the iPad. Since then its been working great.
For the other commenter, Google Reader is popular RSS feed aggregator. Basically its a way to see when website publish a new story, and you never miss an article. WWW.reader.Google.com
From My Nexus 7
jayman16 said:
I had problems tethering my N7 to my iPad 3, until I restarted the iPad. Since then its been working great.
For the other commenter, Google Reader is popular RSS feed aggregator. Basically its a way to see when website publish a new story, and you never miss an article. WWW.reader.Google.com
From My Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand now. You're looking for a news reader. I'm no expert on this, and only tried two of the following, but check out the links to reviews of what some consider the best news readers on android currently. Maybe one of these will work? Sometimes it takes time to find the best app, so keep looking if none of these are right.
http://www.bestandroidtablet.us/taptu-a-cool-news-reader-for-android-tablet/
http://geekshavelanded.com/android-news-reader-showdown/

New roms for shield tv

has anyone flashed new stock based rom by DroidMote Server / Client?
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/WLMsgEqw7dw
digweed4me said:
has anyone flashed new stock based rom by DroidMote Server / Client?
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/WLMsgEqw7dw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is a great rom overall but is not 4k/1080p friendly (as far as video playback is concerned in Youtube and Netflix) and you will lose leanback launcher functionality.
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/QiC1Pksvzaq
https://youtu.be/NMqz8e33oq8
With Android you can do all. With Android TV no. Now and forever because Android TV was invented for TV manufacturers that want a limited OS to better sell their services.
This is what I understand but I hope to be wrong.
zulu99 said:
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/QiC1Pksvzaq
https://youtu.be/NMqz8e33oq8
With Android you can do all. With Android TV no. Now and forever because Android TV was invented for TV manufacturers that want a limited OS to better sell their services.
This is what I understand but I hope to be wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
completly wrong.
Android TV is a full Android plus new TV features (search,recommendations,background playback). It's not limited.
It's just the launcher and the store that 'filter' apps that are not specifically optimized for a TV experience (= with a remote instead of touchscreen).
Savvy people can sideload and use any apps on Android TV.
But the goal of Google and TV manufacturers isn't to provide a system for savvy users, that would be a niche market and not worth their time & money.
They want a system anyone can use, the average user. A simple to use and consistent interface from app to app, while keeping the full power of Android behind the scene. Because nothing is more confusing for the average guy than using a 'made for touchscreen' app on a TV or using apps with different 'UI behavior' , it's the best way for him to throw away the whole thing in the trashcan
TV manufacturers don't sell services anyway, they sell TV...
kgersen said:
completly wrong.
Android TV is a full Android plus new TV features (search,recommendations,background playback). It's not limited.
It's just the launcher and the store that 'filter' apps that are not specifically optimized for a TV experience (= with a remote instead of touchscreen).
Savvy people can sideload and use any apps on Android TV.
But the goal of Google and TV manufacturers isn't to provide a system for savvy users, that would be a niche market and not worth their time & money.
They want a system anyone can use, the average user. A simple to use and consistent interface from app to app, while keeping the full power of Android behind the scene. Because nothing is more confusing for the average guy than using a 'made for touchscreen' app on a TV or using apps with different 'UI behavior' , it's the best way for him to throw away the whole thing in the trashcan
TV manufacturers don't sell services anyway, they sell TV...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is a FACT that with Android we can do all. Also specific things of Android TV. The inverse is not possible. But i'm very sorry of this
But this is not problem, the important fact is that Nvidia Shield Console have very good hardware and finally we can have a good full Android device connected to our TV.
The choice from Android TV and full Android is a reality so advanced users can have the alternative.
If it was not a question of money / forced limitations, should be more simple create a specific Launcher for TV that all can download from Google Play and specific apps more accessible with a dpad also downloadable for all from Google Play.
zulu99 said:
Is a FACT that with Android we can do all. Also specific things of Android TV. The inverse is not possible. But i'm very sorry of this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no
Android TV is Android + more features..
I don't get what you can do with Android that you can't do with Android TV.
Actually it's the contrary: you can do stuff with Android TV that you can't do with Android, for instance acting as a Chromecast (Google Cast Receiver) or displaying a video in the background of your launcher (home screen) from an app.
kgersen said:
no
Android TV is Android + more features..
I don't get what you can do with Android that you can't do with Android TV.
Actually it's the contrary: you can do stuff with Android TV that you can't do with Android, for instance acting as a Chromecast (Google Cast Receiver) or displaying a video in the background of your launcher (home screen) from an app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only one example of others million, install chrome browser and observe how it look bad at 320 dpi. Like the most negative phone of 10 years ago.
Android TV is a stripped down version of Android full of limitations.
Chromecast functionality are possible also on full Android.
Android is Android because you can install and update million of apps directly from Google Play. Android without apps is nothing. This is also the difference with Windows Phone, Ubuntu Phone and many others OS that dream the android apps ecosystem.
The actual number of Android apps in Google Play is a reality because independent developers thought that Android would have been a real open source OS, no longer thinks so after so many closures.
Apart that every single standard app is better and faster than the leanback version. Try Youtube as example to better understand. Life is too short to waste time with the directionals keys. Was already a failure on old Smart TV.
But if in the world there are people that bought an Iphone, This justifies even people who prefer Android TV
My interest is not to be right about this, i'm very happy with full Android. I'm just sharing my experience and i know Android quite well.
The thread of full Android firmware is this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/rom-t3138575
I don't understand why for this good hardware, one of the best in the Android world, we can't have a regular forum like all others devices.
Can someone explain ? please. Just for information.
@zulu99 I have a nexus player, I'm currently running CM12.1 but even on stock there was not much I couldn't do.
There is an app to allow easy use of sideloaded apps, a keyboard/trackpad combo let's you navigate without the directional keys on everything but the lean back laucher. Only thing I wasn't able to do is get the VPN working well (had to use separate VPN app, no built in VPN). I'm not saying ATV is better then Normal Android, just that you can do almost anything with a little effort. ATV is Android, same kernel and the core is built on the same code as normal Android.
Android is still very much an open ecosystem. Yes some things are locked away, but nothing as draconian as Apple or Microsoft. Even without root a lot more is possible on a system running Android then any other comparable platform (Android wear vs WatchOS, Android vs iOS, etc). I respect that you are a developer, I just think your 100% wrong in your view on ATV.
I'll be getting the Shield soon as a gaming/streaming TV console for an upcoming multi month work trip.
zulu99 said:
Only one example of others million, install chrome browser and observe how it look bad at 320 dpi. Like the most negative phone of 10 years ago.
Android TV is a stripped down version of Android full of limitations.
Chromecast functionality are possible also on full Android.
Android is Android because you can install and update million of apps directly from Google Play. Android without apps is nothing. This is also the difference with Windows Phone, Ubuntu Phone and many others OS that dream the android apps ecosystem.
The actual number of Android apps in Google Play is a reality because independent developers thought that Android would have been a real open source OS, no longer thinks so after so many closures.
Apart that every single standard app is better and faster than the leanback version. Try Youtube as example to better understand. Life is too short to waste time with the directionals keys. Was already a failure on old Smart TV.
But if in the world there are people that bought an Iphone, This justifies even people who prefer Android TV
My interest is not to be right about this, i'm very happy with full Android. I'm just sharing my experience and i know Android quite well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Chrome looks bad on TV isn't because of the OS... You "know Android quite well" but you clearly don't know what is an OS and what is an app and where the 'frontier' between the two is.
You're confusing a lot of things and mixing things up.
Plz do show me Chromecasting Netflix for instance on what you call "full Android" (which I just call "Android").
I agree with Zulu. If you want locked down hardware and software, please go buy an Apple TV. And you also probably have no reason to go to XDA developers as this site is all about tweaking. Without root, what tweaking are you doing?
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
well said @machx1111
Leave zulu99 to his noble developing work @kgersen Some of us find this sort of stuff really useful.
I get that you don't personally find it useful but your comments seem to be borderline insulting considering the effort zulu99 has gone to. This forum really isn't the place for criticism unless it's constructive.
BenjiHansell said:
well said @machx1111
Leave zulu99 to his noble developing work @kgersen Some of us find this sort of stuff really useful.
I get that you don't personally find it useful but your comments seem to be borderline insulting considering the effort zulu99 has gone to. This forum really isn't the place for criticism unless it's constructive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wth are you talking about? did you even read our comments ?
I never said we mustn't root or do alternative ROM or that I want locked-down devices and software.
We're just talking about Android vs Android TV.
I just don't get why people waste their time porting CM or a 'smartphone/tablet/touch' version of Android to the Shield when it already has a full OS: Android TV and that NVidia already provides all the source and tools to build your own firmware for it: https://developer.nvidia.com/shield-open-source
I think they're just transposing what they had to do on smartphones and tablets because OEMs won't release the sources and tools to build your own firmware, to a new device just because it also run Android... They didn't bother looking up or asking NVidia...
Android TV is Android, if you don't like the 'TV' part just don't use it, go download the source code from NVidia and adapt/change what you don't want or add new features. If you prefer to use an UI made for touch on a TV that's your choice...hell you can even adapt Linux for Tegra for the Shield if you want Ubuntu instead of Android.
I'm all for tinkering and rooting but do it right, even more when the manufacturer can help you do so.
_Dennis_ said:
@zulu99 I have a nexus player, I'm currently running CM12.1 but even on stock there was not much I couldn't do.
There is an app to allow easy use of sideloaded apps, a keyboard/trackpad combo let's you navigate without the directional keys on everything but the lean back laucher. Only thing I wasn't able to do is get the VPN working well (had to use separate VPN app, no built in VPN). I'm not saying ATV is better then Normal Android, just that you can do almost anything with a little effort. ATV is Android, same kernel and the core is built on the same code as normal Android.
Android is still very much an open ecosystem. Yes some things are locked away, but nothing as draconian as Apple or Microsoft. Even without root a lot more is possible on a system running Android then any other comparable platform (Android wear vs WatchOS, Android vs iOS, etc). I respect that you are a developer, I just think your 100% wrong in your view on ATV.
I'll be getting the Shield soon as a gaming/streaming TV console for an upcoming multi month work trip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Lollirock firmware on Nexus Player and no cyanogenmod if you want a regular Android firmware in which you can install all from Google Play.
I respect the classic Cyanogenmod development / firmwares, but on Nexus Player the cyanogenmod firmware is just a strange hybrid. It use many parts of Android TV. Usually Cyanogenmod add things to Android, on the nexus player it remove things from Android
Not really useful. Read posts of users to better understand.
In lollirock firmware thread in the last part there are comparisons made by users.
---------- Post added at 11:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:26 AM ----------
kgersen said:
wth are you talking about? did you even read our comments ?
I never said we mustn't root or do alternative ROM or that I want locked-down devices and software.
We're just talking about Android vs Android TV.
I just don't get why people waste their time porting CM or a 'smartphone/tablet/touch' version of Android to the Shield when it already has a full OS: Android TV and that NVidia already provides all the source and tools to build your own firmware for it: https://developer.nvidia.com/shield-open-source
I think they're just transposing what they had to do on smartphones and tablets because OEMs won't release the sources and tools to build your own firmware, to a new device just because it also run Android... They didn't bother looking up or asking NVidia...
Android TV is Android, if you don't like the 'TV' part just don't use it, go download the source code from NVidia and adapt/change what you don't want or add new features. If you prefer to use an UI made for touch on a TV that's your choice...hell you can even adapt Linux for Tegra for the Shield if you want Ubuntu instead of Android.
I'm all for tinkering and rooting but do it right, even more when the manufacturer can help you do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About you, instead of writing things without sense, present to us your work. We will happy to test.
What are you doing for others people ?
If you like Android TV why you write here ?
Please i don't want problems with others users.
I'm already exposing myself too much.
But is necessary to demonstrate that we understand very well when things are necessary and others things are just made to protect economic interests against the fair competitive laws.
Apart all, is not most useful that you can do more things instead of be able to do just what others wants ?
Why we should remain closed in the Android TV that is a "Walled Garden". Because you don't like ?
Two things are always better than one.
p.s.
Netflix work well in full Android firmware, like google movies app and all others DRM players.
Chromecast functionality are working too.
Usually i use Chromecast functionality only if there isn't an app to do it natively inside the box. Is stupid stream with chromecast if you can have it native inside the box. But you can do all with quite all apps. also screen mirroring is possible. tested with my galaxy s6 and nexus7
All others Leanback-Only apps are working well ( 10 / 11 in total )
also xposed framework is beautiful to tweak your firmware.
When i read comments like your i'm very happy, because usually mean that the firmware works very very well
What many people not know is that in Google Plus, Facebook and also in xda forum like in others forum, users can be paid to do good reviews and support some platforms, just to make advertisement. Attention when you read.
RELY ON TESTS MADE ONLY BY YOURSELF
zulu99 said:
Use Lollirock firmware on Nexus Player and no cyanogenmod if you want a regular Android firmware in which you can install all from Google Play.
I respect the classic Cyanogenmod development / firmwares, but on Nexus Player the cyanogenmod firmware is just a strange hybrid. It use many parts of Android TV. Usually Cyanogenmod add things to Android, on the nexus player it remove things from Android
Not really useful. Read posts of users to better understand.
In lollirock firmware thread in the last part there are comparisons made by users.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm enjoying the hybrid model used on CM. I get that its not for everyone, was just using it as an example.
I am able to do almost anything I could do on my phone on the TV. Does it all work perfectly? Of course not. Many apps are designed around a multi touch screen, my TV does not have a touchscreen at all. I just don't understand why you feel Android TV is more locked down then standard android. I was able to use es explorer to side load anything I wanted. Does not mean it worked (some apps are not programmed for directional keys and rely on touch input only, so they needed a mouse. Once I got that set up I can use anything fairly well. I have Amazon prime music working great for example, and I have prime videos loaded (haven't used it yet, netflix and hulu have my attention right now). This is all doable on androidTV, can't do it on my Roku, all I can get for amazon music is the non-prime stuff.
I can only think one think of one thing ATV can't do (native VPN) and one thing stock android can't do (well haven't tried sideloading the app yet) and that's receive a chrome cast stream, or send a chrome cast from one phone to tablet or whatever. Mostly the two versions seem comparable, the differences are in the stock apps (read Launcher and play store).
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
_Dennis_ said:
I'm enjoying the hybrid model used on CM. I get that its not for everyone, was just using it as an example.
I am able to do almost anything I could do on my phone on the TV. Does it all work perfectly? Of course not. Many apps are designed around a multi touch screen, my TV does not have a touchscreen at all. I just don't understand why you feel Android TV is more locked down then standard android. I was able to use es explorer to side load anything I wanted. Does not mean it worked (some apps are not programmed for directional keys and rely on touch input only, so they needed a mouse. Once I got that set up I can use anything fairly well. I have Amazon prime music working great for example, and I have prime videos loaded (haven't used it yet, netflix and hulu have my attention right now). This is all doable on androidTV, can't do it on my Roku, all I can get for amazon music is the non-prime stuff.
I can only think one think of one thing ATV can't do (native VPN) and one thing stock android can't do (well haven't tried sideloading the app yet) and that's receive a chrome cast stream, or send a chrome cast from one phone to tablet or whatever. Mostly the two versions seem comparable, the differences are in the stock apps (read Launcher and play store).
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With Android we can install all apps simply from Google Play and all works better at 220 / 230 dpi. Touch-only apps are not a problem, with DroidMote i can use very well multi-touch apps and games.
You will search manually for every single apk when an update is available ? Get it from your phone, upload and reinstall. Baaaaaaaa
Good Luck
p.s.
Today i used all the day the Shield Console with full Android firmware and i can say it is Super. I installed and tested all benchmark apps, all others my preferred apps. All work super smooth and i like this hardware. I will never turn back on Android TV
zulu99 said:
With Android we can install all simply from Google Play and all works better at 220 / 230 dpi. Touch-only apps are not a problem, with DroidMote i can use very well multi-touch apps and games.
You will search manually for every single apk when an update is available ? Get it from your phone, upload and reinstall. Baaaaaaaa
Good Luck
p.s.
Today i used all the day the Shield Console with full Android firmware and i can say it is Super. I installed and tested all benchmark apps, all my preffered apps. All work super smoth and i like this hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not an issue inherent to Android TV, that is a function of the play store.
Don't get me wrong I'll probably try your ROM at some point. I make my own opinions, so I'm constantly trying new stuff.
_Dennis_ said:
That's not an issue inherent to Android TV, that is a function of the play store.
Don't get me wrong I'll probably try your ROM at some point. I make my own opinions, so I'm constantly trying new stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems. we are here to discuss like good friends. I'm writing from Shield Console in a beautiful Chrome Browser at 220 dpi.
I like to discuss and hear the opinions of others.
I have only one big problem, my bad english. I'm Italian
zulu99 said:
No problems. we are here to discuss like good friends. I'm writing from Shield Console in a beautiful Chrome Browser at 220 dpi.
I like to discuss and hear the opinions of others.
I have only one big problem, my bad english. I'm Italian
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its OK, I'm pretty good at understanding, my wife is Filipino and I lived in Japan for 3 years.
I may attempt to mess with some settings (I noticed a TV setting in build.prop) to see if I can get full play store use without changing much, mainly so anyone can use what ROM they want while getting access to both stores I see that as the best of both worlds.
_Dennis_ said:
I may attempt to mess with some settings (I noticed a TV setting in build.prop) to see if I can get full play store use without changing much, mainly so anyone can use what ROM they want while getting access to both stores I see that as the best of both worlds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a minix neo x8h+ and this box is "seen" by the play store as a leanback compatible box, but it also has access to all the android apps... so this may be a build.prop worth looking at?
I am getting an Nvidia console in a couple of weeks and would love to use leanback BUT not with the added hassle of installing and running non leanback apps.
tx Mark.

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