Database Users

Access the Kindle files through SSH or FTP?

Can anyone show me how to access the files on the Fire using FTP or SSH?
Thanks a lot

If you've gotten the Android Market on there, there are a number of sshd implementations available.
If not, sideload one of the sshds from the market obtained on another phone or something like that.
The Amazon App Store seems to be pretty lacking in "technical" apps, and nothing that requires root, as far as I can tell.
So, if you're rooted, try the android market. If not, get the apk somewhere else.
Update: After testing, I found that SSHDroid works perfectly well. Just remember, if you're going to be playing with system apps, you still need to mount R/W.

thanks a lot. it works so well

Try file expert from the amazon market. Great file manager,with ftp server support, http desktop and much more

dropbear on the command line will work if you install the terminal emulator.

Fire Tv Stick - How to Sideload and Install XBMC or any other app

Easiest way to install any App to the Fire OS with Amazon Fire TV Utility App and Es File Explorer .
Here is the video, Enjoy
http://youtu.be/JGIgNaweISM
Download the following files:
Download Amazon Fire TV Utility App:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2736774
Download ES Files Explorer:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.estrongs.android.pop&hl=en
Download XBMC Kodi:
http://kodi.tv/download/
Useful APKs
Setting APK for AFTV:
https://mega.co.nz/#!2QxmQY7Q!34Ypey9U2sdj5mrOCD0bg2Dd7GNNiP-iIcvx3X9VKXc
TVMC (XBMC)
http://www.tvaddons.ag/tvmc-android/
Very Useful:
Awesome setup and Must have apps
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/fire-tv-stick-awesome-setup-apps-t2965825
Install Free & Paid apps with AKG Fire app for Android
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/fire-tv-stick-install-free-paid-apps-t2969097
Fun:
How to setup Game Boy Advance for AFTV
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/fire-tv-stick-ultimate-game-boy-advance-t2975641

inwisso said:
Easiest way to install any App to the Fire OS with Amazon Fire TV Utility App and Es File Explorer .
Here is the video, Enjoy
http://youtu.be/JGIgNaweISM
Download the following files:
Download Amazon Fire TV Utility App:
https://sites.google.com/site/amazonfiretvutilityapp/
Download ES Files Explorer:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.estrongs.android.pop&hl=en
Download XBMC Kodi:
http://kodi.tv/download/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks a lot, worked great. do the fast forward and rewind buttons work for you?

I understand that that there is a setting.apk for bluetooth. It would be nice if you include in this thread. Thanks
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Welcome, Oki doki I will add it

You are welcome, I think they should work jute fine. Once I have the chance I will try it for you

Will also try the settings.apk posted here and report back

Not sure what I'm doing wrong but I'm not able to install any apps on the fire stick using the tool. Command window just states,
error: device not found
- waiting for device -
Waited for about an hour and tried again but no luck.
I have turned on for ADB and installation of unknown apps on the fire stick. Also both the computer is on the the same network. Any advice?
Software version is 54.1.0.1

moman85 said:
Not sure what I'm doing wrong but I'm not able to install any apps on the fire stick using the tool. Command window just states,
error: device not found
- waiting for device -
Waited for about an hour and tried again but no luck.
I have turned on for ADB and installation of unknown apps on the fire stick. Also both the computer is on the the same network. Any advice?
Software version is 54.1.0.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
did you do the right commands? you have to connect to the firetv first using "adb connect ip of fire stick"
example: adb connect 192.168.1.17

inwisso said:
Easiest way to install any App to the Fire OS with Amazon Fire TV Utility App and Es File Explorer .
Here is the video, Enjoy
http://youtu.be/JGIgNaweISM
Download the following files:
Download Amazon Fire TV Utility App:
https://sites.google.com/site/amazonfiretvutilityapp/
Download ES Files Explorer:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.estrongs.android.pop&hl=en
Download XBMC Kodi:
http://kodi.tv/download/
Useful APKs
Setting APK for AFTV:
https://mega.co.nz/#!2QxmQY7Q!34Ypey9U2sdj5mrOCD0bg2Dd7GNNiP-iIcvx3X9VKXc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you side load just about any app, on a unrooted fire tv on the latest update 51.1.4.1_user_514013920 ?

Yes you can side-load any app that are free & paid app only work with a rooted Fire Tv

anybody try setting.apk working for bluetooth in latest software update?

pbanj said:
did you do the right commands? you have to connect to the firetv first using "adb connect ip of fire stick"
example: adb connect 192.168.1.17
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, thank you. I had to do it through the terminal to get it to work. Couldn't get it to work using the Amazon Fire TV Utility App. Also I had to be in the folder where the Android SDK was in the C:\android-sdk-windows\platform-tools folder that contained fastboot.

Es File Explorer Sideloading without adbfire (after installing it at the fire stick)
I have been able to install apk without using any adb shell after installing ES file explorer and settings apk. You need to open ESFE in the FSTV and in your android device , go to apps in the ESFE fast menu, select those you want to share, select send, select the device with ''ip address: AFTM'' and click send., that will promp your ESFE at the FSTV. Choose the Downloads folder to receive the files, open the location and install those apks.
Download wukong TV ROMOTE Control ( typo is there ) from the market, look and the screen shoots for some ideas and enjoy your new FSTV mouse.
Thanks to all of you for your know hows and turn the FSTV into a SUPERIOR experience.
If this have been reported before, my bad.... Amazon Fire Stick

dony71 said:
anybody try setting.apk working for bluetooth in latest software update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not able to go beyond bluetooth settings after installing setting on the stick. Whenever I click on the bluetooth setting, it kick me out of the setting application.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Here
desztan said:
I'm not able to go beyond bluetooth settings after installing setting on the stick. Whenever I click on the bluetooth setting, it kick me out of the setting application.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Factory settings restore to the stick will fix it

are there written instructions for this anywhere??

Please disregard, I was wrong
I erased this warning because I discovered I was mistaken. I apologize.

ONLY DOWNLOAD FROM THE #1 Post in the developers thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2736774
PLEASE TAKE DOWN YOUR FALSE WARNING...
muncrief said:
I just downloaded the Fire TV Utility (FTV v0.36.zip) from the link in this post and it is infected by the Android/Deng virus. This was confirmed by virustotal.com
Does anyone know of an alternate link with a clean file?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a false positive... TowelRoot which is what we all use for Rooting is the only thing that gets flag as an exploit/trojan... Since TowelRoot is included in the package the FTV gets flagged incorrectly.. Unless you've downloaded from a different link then the two links in the OP's post... Then there is nothing to worry about. FTV Utility v0.36 or any of the other versions have any viruses... I am using Eset Smart Security to check...
TR.apk = TOWEL ROOT.. PLEASE DO NOT SPREAD MISINFORMATION..... FTV IS FULLY SAFE TO USE. PERIOD. (You can test this by deleting TR.apk from the apps folder & running the test again.. No False positive then.)

I apologize.
I apologize for my mistake. I did not know the app was subject to false positives. I downloaded and used it and it works great! I will do more research next time.
Y314K said:
ONLY DOWNLOAD FROM THE #1 Post in the developers thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2736774
PLEASE TAKE DOWN YOUR FALSE WARNING...
That's a false positive... TowelRoot which is what we all use for Rooting is the only thing that gets flag as an exploit/trojan... Since TowelRoot is included in the package the FTV gets flagged incorrectly.. Unless you've downloaded from a different link then the two links in the OP's post... Then there is nothing to worry about. FTV Utility v0.36 or any of the other versions have any viruses... I am using Eset Smart Security to check...
TR.apk = TOWEL ROOT.. PLEASE DO NOT SPREAD MISINFORMATION..... FTV IS FULLY SAFE TO USE. PERIOD. (You can test this by deleting TR.apk from the apps folder & running the test again.. No False positive then.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

muncrief said:
I apologize for my mistake. I did not know the app was subject to false positives. I downloaded and used it and it works great! I will do more research next time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem... I had to double check at first too to make sure... Until I realize it was the root apk... Someone has been flagging the app on the hosting google site... Which is the reason for the backup link. Just trying to help the developer out... No worries... Let me know if you ever have any ?'s about the Utility.. Been using it on my 4 Rooted FTV's (For everything) & on 2 FireTV Sticks... :good:

[Guide] Nexus Player starter info!

How to get started (Unlock Bootloader & Root)
A great guide has already been written up for this by xDragonZ HERE.
Now that I'm rooted, what next?
The Nexus Player has a micro USB port in the back, this is your key into making this device your own. You'll need to pick up an OTG Cable to get started. Any microUSB to female USB will work (buy a straight cable, and not one with a 90 degree bend in the port as these will not physically fit in the back of the Nexus Player).
Now that you've got your OTG Cable, the next thing you'll likely want is a USB Hub. From what I've read, the USB 2.0 hub is what you're looking for. I've personally got a four port powered hub, though you can choose any hub. NOTE, if you are going to hook up a non-powered harddrive then you'll need to purchase a POWERED USB hub else your harddrive will not function.
OTG Cable? Check! USB Hub? Check! Time for more!!
With that hub installed you can now hook up pretty much whatever you want as far as peripherals go (Ethernet adapter, Mouse, Keyboard, Gamepad, HDD, etc).
More info:
Gigabit Ethernet is available, although due to USB 2.0 restrictions you will not achieve full speed. More info HERE.
Additional accessories can be added, good thread HERE, or just skim through the Accessories subforum HERE.
Flash Drives and HDDs
If you add a Flash Drive or HDD you'll need to install StickMount. If you're wanting to install large games then you'll need to get FolderMount. Buy the PRO versions, the features are worth it and you should be supporting our Devs!
Stock or Custom ROM
So you're rooted and you've got all your extra hardware hooked up. Great! You're all set to start enjoying your Nexus Player. Or you can take that final step and install a custom ROM. At the time of writing there is only LolliRock, which is awesome. I definitely recommend checking it out HERE.
How to get apps on my Nexus Player?
You have two options for getting apps onto your device, you can sideload them or you can go to the PlayStore website and install them to your Nexus Player remotely. Just click "Install" and then choose your Nexus Player from the dropdown menu.
ES File Exporer also becomes very helpful as it will allow you to access cloud storage, ftp, and local files for sideloading purposes.
Hope this helps!
Also, remember to thank your developers in their respective threads!

How do I get pro version of stickmount to activate on my Nexus player? I bought it but can't get it activated.

trvbone said:
How do I get pro version of stickmount to activate on my Nexus player? I bought it but can't get it activated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should just need to have both Stickmount free and Stickmount pro installed together to unlock the pro features. Do you have both apps currently installed?

No that IS my question how do I install pro version if I can't push from okay store or sideloaded the pro apk.... I used the apk downloader extension in chrome to get apks for nexus player but I don't get the option for the pro version.

Hmm that would be a good question for Chainfire

Easiest way I believe to sideload is to download Wifi File Transfer Pro ($1.40) which can be downloaded automatically from the Play Store, then just use that to push the APK's to the device. Install to the "Downloads" folder then navigate there with File Explorer ES (which can be downloaded from the GPS) and install. Works great.

That's all good and fun but how do I get the apk of the pro version??

If someone has gotten foldermount to work on this thing, then please tell me what you did because I have repartitioned my USB stick to several different filesystems that are supported by the only custom kernel available for this device and I have permission issues when trying to create a folder with foldermount. If I let it do it itself, it acts as if it moved the data to the USB stick but didn't. I don't see nothing created when I check with a file explorer, and memory don't get freed up either. I have stick mount as well and it says my drive is mounted.

perhaps you can download the app to a rooted device like your phone and copy the stickmountpro.apk from you /data/app or /system/app folder or where-ever it places itself.
also I'm or not sure if http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2146216 market helper works on nexus player .

trvbone said:
That's all good and fun but how do I get the apk of the pro version??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you able to solve this? I am in the same situation as you. I have the free version sideloaded/installed on my NP but can't figure out how to get an APK for the pro version. I already purchased it but don't know what I can do next.

ChristianJay said:
Easiest way I believe to sideload is to download Wifi File Transfer Pro ($1.40) which can be downloaded automatically from the Play Store, then just use that to push the APK's to the device. Install to the "Downloads" folder then navigate there with File Explorer ES (which can be downloaded from the GPS) and install. Works great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or, just use samba that's built in to es file explorer, and/or root explorer, to navigate directly to any samba shares on your pc.
Note 4 ?

unix4linux said:
Were you able to solve this? I am in the same situation as you. I have the free version sideloaded/installed on my NP but can't figure out how to get an APK for the pro version. I already purchased it but don't know what I can do next.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I believe I used titanium backup on my Nexus 7 and used the backup of the pro apk and sideloaded it to NP
Sent from my Nexus 6

Idan73 said:
Or, just use samba that's built in to es file explorer, and/or root explorer, to navigate directly to any samba shares on your pc.
Note 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm didn't know about Samba. Doesn't matter anyway I returned the NP. Going to see what the Razer Forge brings to the table but as far as streaming wirelessly through Plex 1080 content on max, nothing seems to beat Chromecast.

So I was trying to setup a folder link in the mount folder app but I don't understand how to actually select a folder location because after I navigate to the folder and click the back button the folder address isn't listed for the folder to be linked to. Can anyone help with this maybe a video or some pictures of how to set it up.
Edit: nvm with cm12.1 and an app called Link2sd I was able to move apps and their data/obb folders to my flash drive.

kingo root or 5.2.1.0 breaking apps, ESfile explorer and mouse toggle do not work

hello i have rooted a 5.2.1.0 fire stick with kingo root and now i can not get either mouse toggle or ES file explorer to work properly ,both apps are installed
mouse toggle does not do anything it shows the setting screen , but double tapping play will not activate it
ES file explorer works but will not download anything i tried 2 different tutorials, 2 different links that work fine on my PC and tried to download the .apk through Es file explorer and when i click the links nothing happens, when i try to go to the "more" >"open in browser" option as it said in one the tutorials it just backs me out or the app back to fire tv UI
i tried the "open browser option" with both links the one from the tutorial that said to do it and the one that did not, all it does is back me out to fire TV UI with both
i checked the download folder , storage, emulated storage/0/download and there are in no apk file in there, it just won't download anything
apk files downloaded fine on my PC with same 2 links
can someone with a s tick on 5.2.1.0 rooted with kingo root please confirm if they can get either of these to work properly

cant get firestopper/ firestarter home buttton detection working either

Suggest reading app's thread.

gdroid666 said:
hello i have rooted a 5.2.1.0 fire stick with kingo root and now i can not get either mouse toggle or ES file explorer to work properly ,both apps are installed
mouse toggle does not do anything it shows the setting screen , but double tapping play will not activate it
ES file explorer works but will not download anything i tried 2 different tutorials, 2 different links that work fine on my PC and tried to download the .apk through Es file explorer and when i click the links nothing happens, when i try to go to the "more" >"open in browser" option as it said in one the tutorials it just backs me out or the app back to fire tv UI
i tried the "open browser option" with both links the one from the tutorial that said to do it and the one that did not, all it does is back me out to fire TV UI with both
i checked the download folder , storage, emulated storage/0/download and there are in no apk file in there, it just won't download anything
apk files downloaded fine on my PC with same 2 links
can someone with a s tick on 5.2.1.0 rooted with kingo root please confirm if they can get either of these to work properly
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like mouse toggle doesn't work anymore but Es, file explorer works fine for me.
I replaced mouse toggle with wukong remote and just use my phone to control the stick. As for es not downloading I had this problem even before root but to get around this I simply add the wanted apk files to my drop box account and install them that way. Much easier [emoji108]

FireTho1 said:
Looks like mouse toggle doesn't work anymore but Es, file explorer works fine for me.
I replaced mouse toggle with wukong remote and just use my phone to control the stick. As for es not downloading I had this problem even before root but to get around this I simply add the wanted apk files to my drop box account and install them that way. Much easier [emoji108]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok so you can confirm mousetoggle not working then?
yes i do not think that will work either one of the link i tried was a dropbox link and it did nothing when i clicked it
i usually just install apk's through adb with cmd prompt i find it is the easiest method for me ,but i saw some other people on ares site talking about how they ould not et kodi arm apk lik to work through ES i just want to know what is going on , is amazon disabling downloads through ES now? i could see if it was just the kodi arm apk link but the links i used for firestopper were from more obscure sites i doubt they have got all those links blacklisted somehow through ES the more likely answer is they just disabled downloads , but who knows

gdroid666 said:
ok so you can confirm mousetoggle not working then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 1.06 update of the Mouse Toggle for Fire TV app is compatible with the 5.2.1.0 OS update. Simply upgrade the phone app and setup the app on the Fire TV again and verify the status is 'started' and confirm the app updated to 1.06. If you have any issues please send a email to the address in the app and I will help you out.
Note: If the apps 'Status' is stuck on 'starting' then it is very likely another app is unfortunately blocking the single ADB connection. The offending app would need to be uninstalled and 'ADB Debugging' would have to be toggled off and then on again.
Thank you!

iostouchdev said:
The 1.06 update of the Mouse Toggle for Fire TV app is compatible with the 5.2.1.0 OS update. Simply upgrade the phone app and setup the app on the Fire TV again and verify the status is 'started' and confirm the app updated to 1.06. If you have any issues please send a email to the address in the app and I will help you out.
Note: If the apps 'Status' is stuck on 'starting' then it is very likely another app is unfortunately blocking the single ADB connection. The offending app would need to be uninstalled and 'ADB Debugging' would have to be toggled off and then on again.
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried and tested this on the stick and nothing are you running on the stick? Thanks

FireTho1 said:
I've tried and tested this on the stick and nothing are you running on the stick? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the 1.06 version works on all the different Fire TV models including the Fire TV Stick. It is very likely another app is conflicting as there are some apps that take exclusive control of ADB and never properly disconnect unfortunately. If you can email me at the address listed in the app with additional details I'm confident we can get this resolved for you.
Thank you

iostouchdev said:
Yes, the 1.06 version works on all the different Fire TV models including the Fire TV Stick. It is very likely another app is conflicting as there are some apps that take exclusive control of ADB and never properly disconnect unfortunately. If you can email me at the address listed in the app with additional details I'm confident we can get this resolved for you.
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok NM finally got it working

What are the ways to install full google play store on Android TV or to sideload apps

I've been searching for a couple of hours and there's no guides or even clarification about what is possible with regards to running non-tv apps on the shield / android TV.
I really need to install a custom internet browser, VoIP apps, syncthing, firewall, maybe libre office who knows etc.
So:
- How do you install Full Google PlayStore?
- Do you need to root? (guide 1)(guide 2)
- I heard you can alternatively sideload apps via ADB. So I guess you need TWRP, and root? And where do you get the apks from?
In general, are there any non-UX limitations of android TV that would cause apps to not run? Or does it have the same capabilities as plugging in a mouse & kb into my phone's OTG port and then casting its screen to a TV?

Well here's a few thoughts without going into too much detail as I'm at work:
Full google play will need a custom rom I believe and you'll need to give up the android tv version of play and leanback functionality (I think)
There may be another method (still losing androidtv but probably needing root)
You can sideload via ADB or via a sideloading app. Or using network shares, USB storage, USB transfer etc.
In the past I've used Titanium Backup (rooted naturally) installed a load of games to my phone then moved the backups to an SD/USB to restore on the SHIELD.
There are also dubious website and alternative stores you can install or visit on the SHIELD. Not a fan of those tbh.
You can get APK downloader addons for web browsers that allow you to download directly from Play Store website. Chrome android doesn't support these I am lead to believe... but installing Yandex broweser and installing the chrome addon to that apparently might work. So then load Play Store in Yandex browser and you can get your apps direct from google... just sadly not the paid ones.
I've been meaning to get on this again myself. I'm really quite pissed that most of my paid Rockstar android games won't install from AndroidTV Play store. These games run fine on SHIELD but are flagged as unsupported. Thus forcing you to download them from dubious sources to get running due to the DRM. The TV store is very disapointing, the layout is bad, there's no reviews and developers just don't seem interested in keeping their apps accessible on the platform when they otherwise should be. The Rockstar games in particular run fantastic on the SHIELD and if I were Google or Nvidia I'd actively be trying to encourage Rockstar to promote these games as SHIELD compatible or enhanced!
I don't know about any technical disadvantages to the platform that hold things back but I'm sure many people here will be far more knowledgable. I just assume an app has to be fully functional with just the remote or joypad to be ATV compliant. I'm not entirely sure on this last question but I will say this, every app I've sideloaded has worked as long as it doesn't require touch control in games. I use a 5way hub so I've always got mouse/keyboard and additional storage options etc. If it can be controlled with one finger you can use a mouse to facilitate that.

thanks for the input. Yeah it sucks for paid apps and games. First I'll see if I can get by with just root and these methods, because I couldn't find any good custom roms for the shield. There is one on another forum but I couldn't get it installed (got stuck at nvidia logo after a successful install)..
I'm a noob to android TV, what's "leanback functionality"?

Twodordan said:
thanks for the input. Yeah it sucks for paid apps and games. First I'll see if I can get by with just root and these methods, because I couldn't find any good custom roms for the shield. There is one on another forum but I couldn't get it installed (got stuck at nvidia logo after a successful install)..
I'm a noob to android TV, what's "leanback functionality"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can sideload any apk to the shield if rooted but there are apk's made for android tv and just mobile apk's with mobile apl's you lose some functionality of android tv however a keyboard mouse combo or even nvidia shield tv app will help you navigate through those apk's that are not made for android tv

As far as I know, sideloading apps means finding an apk, placing it on the device, and then running it (and allowing installation from unknown sources).
So at what point in this process do I require root? Do I need the root if it's an apk not made for Android TV? What is that process exactly?

Twodordan said:
As far as I know, sideloading apps means finding an apk, placing it on the device, and then running it (and allowing installation from unknown sources).
So at what point in this process do I require root? Do I need the root if it's an apk not made for Android TV? What is that process exactly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I side load stuff to my non rooted shield all the time its true not all apps will work but a majority of them will for some apps that have only a vertical view you can use apps like set orientation to have it in landscape mode just allow install of unknown apps for the file browser you use on the shield.
https://apkpure.com/set-orientation/com.googlecode.eyesfree.setorientation
You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine.

Yeah I always keep my SHIELD rooted for this reason. I don't know what the situation is with TWRP recovery at the moment but I know it stopped working in one of the recent updates. By being rooted you can use Flashfire app to flash zips to the SHIELD if you need to flash let's say GLTools or something like that. I mainly use that to force antialiasing for certain games. One thing you will want is either Sideload Launcher (on Play Store) or TV App Repo. Sideload launcher just loads a launcher that includes your non TV apps (They don't all work with the leanback launcher) or you can use TV App Repo to make shortcuts to them on the leanback launcher. TV App Repo will also need root to work, so yeah that's a great reason to have root when sideloading.

I could adb install the sideload launcher apk (got it from apkpure) to my 16gb shield tv 2017, via a usb-to-usb cable, and it works just fine without root.
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
[Edit] Installed TV Launcher instead of sideload launcher. It can replace the default launcher and it is also so much nicer: https://apkpure.com/tvlauncher/com.awe.dev.pro.tv
[Edit] So a custom launcher like TV Launcher will insert itself as a suggestion whenever you press the home screen, and you can set it to Always use this launcher, however in many situations, like restarting your shield, it will default back to the stock launcher. You can read this but it's still fine to always have a prompt whenever you press home: https://www.reddit.com/r/ShieldAndr...hange_default_launcher_on_shield_2017_nougat/

I use Yalp store and set it up as different device (in my case Samsung Galaxy Tab S3). Works really fine for 95% of the time.

Question Please?
Can you please say which shield TV you have? I am thinking of buying one but am put off by the lack of full play store. Being able to install any apk from a USB stick may sway me (but still not sure). What I plan to do is install any apps I want on my phone, use an apk extractor to get the apk, put it on USB then use CX file explorer to click and install. Does that sound all possible on non-rooted latest full Shield?
Cheers.
Eric.
"You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine."
---------- Post added at 02:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:44 AM ----------
PS Since you can install apk's easily did you ever try to sideload the Google play store apk (along with Google Play Services apk to see if they will install?
That would be interesting.
Gaps download for HUAWEI Chinese phones would be easy to obtain.
DBCAB said:
I side load stuff to my non rooted shield all the time its true not all apps will work but a majority of them will for some apps that have only a vertical view you can use apps like set orientation to have it in landscape mode just allow install of unknown apps for the file browser you use on the shield.
https://apkpure.com/set-orientation/com.googlecode.eyesfree.setorientation
You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Twodordan said:
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need the developer image to get root.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/shield-tv/development/kernel-overclock-kernel-2-22-ghz-t3943079
And if you don't flash twrp, getting updates will work fine, you will just have to root again.

Twodordan said:
I could adb install the sideload launcher apk (got it from apkpure) to my 16gb shield tv 2017, via a usb-to-usb cable, and it works just fine without root.
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
[Edit] Installed TV Launcher instead of sideload launcher. It can replace the default launcher and it is also so much nicer: https://apkpure.com/tvlauncher/com.awe.dev.pro.tv
[Edit] So a custom launcher like TV Launcher will insert itself as a suggestion whenever you press the home screen, and you can set it to Always use this launcher, however in many situations, like restarting your shield, it will default back to the stock launcher. You can read this but it's still fine to always have a prompt whenever you press home: https://www.reddit.com/r/ShieldAndr...hange_default_launcher_on_shield_2017_nougat/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is rooting a nightmare ? Once your bootloader is unlocked it literally takes 5 minutes to root..
Unlock bootloader
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot boot twrp.img
install magisk zip
Reboot , you're rooted..
I don't understand why people suggest any other file explorer besides "x-plore". By far the best file explorer out there, 100% crap free. You can install any APK from any location using x-plore.. Most of the time I leave the APK on my network , that network drive is mapped in the shield settings, I simply browse to it with x-plore , and install any APK. If it doesn't make a shortcut in the android tv menu , then simply use "sideload launcher" by chainfire to launch whichever app doesn'T show up on the main menu.

ericritou said:
Can you please say which shield TV you have? I am thinking of buying one but am put off by the lack of full play store. Being able to install any apk from a USB stick may sway me (but still not sure). What I plan to do is install any apps I want on my phone, use an apk extractor to get the apk, put it on USB then use CX file explorer to click and install. Does that sound all possible on non-rooted latest full Shield?
Cheers.
Eric.
"You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine."
---------- Post added at 02:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:44 AM ----------
PS Since you can install apk's easily did you ever try to sideload the Google play store apk (along with Google Play Services apk to see if they will install?
That would be interesting.
Gaps download for HUAWEI Chinese phones would be easy to obtain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.

Roamin64 said:
How is rooting a nightmare ? Once your bootloader is unlocked it literally takes 5 minutes to root..
Unlock bootloader
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot boot twrp.img
install magisk zip
Reboot , you're rooted..
I don't understand why people suggest any other file explorer besides "x-plore". By far the best file explorer out there, 100% crap free. You can install any APK from any location using x-plore.. Most of the time I leave the APK on my network , that network drive is mapped in the shield settings, I simply browse to it with x-plore , and install any APK. If it doesn't make a shortcut in the android tv menu , then simply use "sideload launcher" by chainfire to launch whichever app doesn'T show up on the main menu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont understand y ppl think their preferred app is the same or should be everyones preference.. never really used xplore so cant comment on it but this is bcuz i use fx file explorer.. it has been good to me for years and still counting.. you can access network and more if u get an fx license which is cheap.. u can set up windows, ftp, ssh, webdav over network... set up cloud storage... bluetooth... web access.... fx connect and other means using it.. root installer.. text editor... binary viewer... deals with archives... themes... multiple root settings and other settings... diagnostic tools... has builtin busybox or u can use any other busybox you have installed and more
agreed though, roots easy if you dont have troubles.. not sure what ur runnin but nstv pro 2019 unless its been updated since i last checked cannot simply install magisk.. u need modified magisk.zip which is an older version then need to do some trickery in twrp to get it to flash right then still might need some trickery to get it to boot.. i have to use adb root to change bootstate to orange before itll load and if u dont got adb authorized yet then i use twrp to set a script tochange bootstate on boot.. tyen if u still have problems might need towipe and/or mess with vbmetaand/or dtb partitions.. and im an experienced person when it comes to root, exploits, twrp utilization and fastboot (not claiming to b pro or anything crazy, just know how to use them fairly well and general idea of how things work) so i can imagine some ppl that maybe arent as experienced or new to this particular device would have a difficult time indeed.

DBCAB said:
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many thanks.
---------- Post added at 02:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:01 PM ----------
DBCAB said:
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!

have you tried the Aurora store? i find stuff there ibcant find in tv play store

elliwigy said:
have you tried the Aurora store? i find stuff there ibcant find in tv play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
elliwigy suggested the best way to have full playstore, Aurora is a frontend for the real playstore, you are not downloading from an unknown source and also allow to install and validate the apps that you have purchased, also it's possible to spoof your shield as other devices making possible to install apps that in other ways aren't available for your device