How can I root Pro 500GB version without data loss? - Shield Android TV Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

How can I root Pro 500GB version without data loss? - Shield Android TV Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Is this possible? I know I can root the NVIDIA Shield Pro 500GB version (running 6.0 Marshmallow), but I really don't want to have to set everything up again. I wasn't intending to root... but looks like I need to in order to get Sixaxis (PS3 controller) working wirelessly with the Shield. I was hoping for a simple rooting option where I don't have to wipe out my whole drive and start over. I have all my emulators set up the way I want, as well as Kodi, etc, and I don't want to have to start over.

What about something like Kingroot? Has anybody tried?

threehappypenguins said:
Is this possible? I know I can root the NVIDIA Shield Pro 500GB version (running 6.0 Marshmallow), but I really don't want to have to set everything up again. I wasn't intending to root... but looks like I need to in order to get Sixaxis (PS3 controller) working wirelessly with the Shield. I was hoping for a simple rooting option where I don't have to wipe out my whole drive and start over. I have all my emulators set up the way I want, as well as Kodi, etc, and I don't want to have to start over.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In theory you could open up your SATV, and pull the HDD.
The all you have to do is change the last byte of the persistent (RP2) partition to 01.
This should fool the SATV to think it's OEM unlocked making it possible to flash TWRP.
Then you can consider if that's quicker than doing the unlock procedure.

hallydamaster said:
In theory you could open up your SATV, and pull the HDD.
The all you have to do is change the last byte of the persistent (RP2) partition to 01.
This should fool the SATV to think it's OEM unlocked making it possible to flash TWRP.
Then you can consider if that's quicker than doing the unlock procedure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm... I just want to root it for the purpose of hooking up my PS3 controller wirelessly. But... I don't want to void the warranty. So I was hoping for a safe and tested method.

I wouldn't trust Kingroot, personally. It's Chinese crap that installs other apps without asking.
Can't help you with non-erasure, but have you looked at options for backing up your apps and such? Helium can back up most apps and their data.

If your bootloader is unlocked;
http://nvidiashieldzone.com/shield-android-tv/nvidia-shield-tv-500gb-root-m/
If not? I'm afraid you have to start over.

Well, good news! Since the update to Nougat, all you have to do is plug in your PS3 controller, use it, then unplug it and it will work wirelessly.

Related

[Q] Easy root without losing data?

Is there an easy way to root the N4 without losing all of my data? I've looked around the forums and it seems like the only way to root the device is to unlock the bootloader, yet this will always require a wipe of the device. Also, most (if not all) backups require root access to use anyways.
I'm not looking to install a rom or anything, I just want to root so I can connect a PS3 controller with sixaxis since the dumb OTG is confirmed not working.
I have seen this thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1420351 but it looks complicated, probably over-estimating it though.

thesavvymage said:
I have seen this thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1420351 but it looks complicated, probably over-estimating it though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most of that involves only copy & paste. The only thing you have to decide yourself is save path. No critical thinking needed.
And the whole thing is actually just one line of code. you can simply do:
adb backup -apk -system -shared -all -f C:\backup.ab
Which will save everything to C:\backup.ab
Also, the author of the post recommend to back up everything from SDCard first, kinda common sense.
And you will have to unlock bootloader, thus wipe the device before you can root.

hmm if it should be that easy then I'll give it a shot. Didnt realize only one line of that code was actually used

Note that some apps won't be backed up. I've heard some people say it's paid apps. I don't know what the criteria is but it's not specific to paid apps -- Google Authenticator won't be backed up and it's not a paid app.
Just be prepared. Or better yet, take a look inside the archive to make sure you've got the apps you need. If you strip off the first 24 bytes it's just a tar archive. If you know Linux you can run dd if=<backup> of=<optional-output> bs=1 skip=24 and you'll have a tar file in <optional-output> which you can run into tar.

thesavvymage said:
Is there an easy way to root the N4 without losing all of my data? I've looked around the forums and it seems like the only way to root the device is to unlock the bootloader, yet this will always require a wipe of the device. Also, most (if not all) backups require root access to use anyways.
I'm not looking to install a rom or anything, I just want to root so I can connect a PS3 controller with sixaxis since the dumb OTG is confirmed not working.
I have seen this thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1420351 but it looks complicated, probably over-estimating it though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can root devices without unlocking the boot loader, which in doing so wipes the phones data, but it requires finding and using an exploit to be able to push the files to the phone. Since these phones have unlockable bootloaders no one bothers to take the time to find an exploit any more and really why should they. Best way to root is just bite the bullet, unlock the boot loader and root the device with one of the many available methods. I personally like mskip's toolkit but some of the purists on here like to see people learn how to use fastboot commands instead of the doing it the easy way.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1995688

[Guide] Convert Shield Tablet into a dedicated Android TV

What works
Leanback Launcher
Leanback App Buttons (you may still want Sideload Launcher for some things)
Leanback Recommendations
HDMI-CEC (insofar as my TV supports it YMMV)
Shield Controller, including right thumbstick as mouse
Ten Foot experiences for applications that check for it
What doesn't work
Cast Receiver
Probably other things, this is a work in progress
What's needed
ADB access - If you don't have the Android SDK you can just use Minimal ADB and Fastboot
Stock 5.0 OTA (Android 7.0 Nougat) - I don't know how necessary this is but it's what I used.
Root
TWRP or some means of flashing a zip
Open GApps arm tvstock
Step 1 - Debloat
First we need to get rid of a number of things that we won't need, or will get in the way. Use debloat.zip for this. I actually like to run this initially, as well as after Gapps are installed. The script file inside is copied in the spoiler below.
Code:
mount("ext4", "EMMC", "/dev/block/platform/sdhci-tegra.3/by-name/APP", "/system");
ui_print("System app removals");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/BackupRestoreConfirmation");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/BlockedNumberProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/ConfigUpdater");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/CalendarProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Contacts");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/ContactsProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/DocumentsUI");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GmsCore");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleBackupTransport");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleFeedback");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleLoginService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleOneTimeInitializer");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GooglePartnerSetup");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleServicesFramework");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/MmsService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Phonesky");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/SetupWizard");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/TegraOTA");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/TeleService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Telecom");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Velvet");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvLauncher");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvCustomize");
#delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvRpxService"); needed for controller pairing
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/nvlasso");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/shield_platform_analyzer");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/shieldcustomize");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Katniss");
delete_recursive("/system/app/CalendarGoogle");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Chrome");
delete_recursive("/system/app/CloudPrint");
delete_recursive("/system/app/DeskClockGoogle");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Drive");
delete_recursive("/system/app/ExactCalculator");
delete_recursive("/system/app/FaceLock");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Gmail2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GoogleContactsSyncAdapter");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GooglePrintRecommendationService");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GoogleTTS");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Hangouts");
delete_recursive("/system/app/JusWrite");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Maps");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Music2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/PlayGames");
delete_recursive("/system/app/PrintSpooler");
delete_recursive("/system/app/SoundRecorder");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Tn8Tdc");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Videos");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Write");
delete_recursive("/system/app/idsmonitor");
delete_recursive("/system/app/stylusmobile-oem");
delete_recursive("/system/app/talkback");
delete_recursive("/system/app/trine2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Twitch");
delete_recursive("/system/app/YouTube");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Music2Pano");
delete_recursive("/system/app/VideosPano");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/CalibNotifier");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/ConsoleSplash");
#delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/ConsoleUI");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvAndroidOSC");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvBenchmarkBlocker");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvCPLUpdater");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvCamera");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvEsrd");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvGamecast");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvRegistration");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/Stats");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/TegraZone");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/Welcome");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvbatterymonitorservice");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvidiafeedback");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvpowerstats");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/watercolor");
ui_print("Finish");
Step 2 - TV Permissions
Some apps with ten foot experiences are packaged and distributed separately from their mobile/tablet counterparts (like Twitch and ESPN). Others, package all experiences together and ask for permissions at runtime (like PBS Video and PBS Kids). The attached tv_permissions.zip file adds these, as well as android.software.picture_in_picture in order to prevent an exception when the home button is double tapped.
Step 3 - Settings activity is now broken
This is because our conflicted device is looking for the ribbon at the top of the settings activity, but it doesn't exist in the tv layout. fixes.zip patches Settings.apk to include the ribbon in the tv layout.
If you have issues with this, try running debloat and tv_permissions, boot the device, then go back to recovery and flash fixes.zip.
Step 4 - Open GApps tvstock
Big thanks to the Open GApps guys for this one. I cheated a bit here and instead of adding the packages one-by-one to be removed in the debloat script, I manually removed a number of tars from the zip file. I'll fix this, I promise but in the meantime open up the zip file and remove the following:
GApps/castreceiver-arm.tar.lz
GApps/gamepadpairing-arm.tar.lz
GApps/livechannels-arm.tar.lz
GApps/talkback-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvmovies-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvmusic-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvplaygames-arm.tar.lz
Core/bugreport-all.tar.lz
Core/googlebackuptransport-all.tar.lz
Core/googlecontactssync-all.tar.lz
Core/gsfcore-all.tar.lz
Core/notouch-all.tar.lz
Core/setupwraith-all.tar.lz
...or don't if you want to experiment with Google Play Services, but that's not my cup of tea on a TV device. Early builds saw hangouts messages popping up while my wife and I were watching tv (ugh). By the way anything you do with any of this knowledge your sole responsibility.
Other Minutiae
Use the SPMC fork if you use Kodi. You will get recommendations/now playing, among other things.
Some apps may look for Play Services at runtime (I had this with Twitch, for example). If you don't want GPS/GSF I can verify that microG works for this. I used Lanchon's Haystack for signature spoofing. This required Linux and the Android SDK, but there are other ways to accomplish signature spoofing, I just didn't try them.
You'll need some means of downloading app packages without Play Store on your device. I used Raccoon and DummyDroid with the build.prop from Shield Android TV and this user agent string:
Code:
'Android-Finsky/6.5.08.D-all (versionCode=80650800,sdk=23,device=foster,hardware=foster_e,product=foster,build=NRD90M:user)'
Originally, I wanted to do this as a custom AOSP or Lineage-based rom. Some of the issues I ran into were beyond my reckoning and I decided to cut bait and use stock. Lineage does work though, you'll just be sacrificing HDMI-CEC and Granular HDMI audio volume (Steel01 got HDMI audio working though, so big props there).
One thing that was bugging me was that the Shield Controller won't wake the tablet when the tablet is on batter power, even if you have it set to leave wifi on when sleeping. The following setting will fix this:
Code:
adb shell settings put system com.nvidia.blakepairing.agoAlwaysOn 1
Edit 3/6
Guide skeleton, can't attach zips, screens, or post links
Setting to wake device on battery power
Edit 3/9
Screens and flashable zips added

tenFootPedal said:
Title seems sudden, but actually it's been a bit of a task. If anyone's interested I'll put some details and flashables up in here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Put em up, I was just thinking about converting mine with my Chromecast for mobdro, TV portal, and terrarium app. I already have a roku box and a Chromecast, but I'm curious how you converted yours. Thanks!

tenFootPedal said:
Title seems sudden, but actually it's been a bit of a task. If anyone's interested I'll put some details and flashables up in here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a GOOD IDEA to add the method rather than just a passing comment...
Thanks

set my spare shield up with kodi and its fine, i even still game on it occasionally. it's always hooked up so, why not?

LenAsh said:
It's a GOOD IDEA to add the method rather than just a passing comment...
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I'm planning on sharing but I wanted to gauge interest. Also I've never posted here and either I don't have permissions or I'm having PEBKAC issues with posting attachments.

Edit 3/6
Guide skeleton, can't attach zips, screens, or post links
Setting to wake device on battery power

Edit 3/9
Screens and flashable zips added
I'll be trying this with 5.1 OTA next

i have gotton the sheild game hub from the stock nvidia sheild tv firmware to install and work with this mod. i also use the ps4 controller via bluetooth for my remote in console mode. i cant figure out how to install the Google play store on this mod. can someone help me get it to install and work.

i have gotton the sheild game hub from the stock nvidia sheild tv firmware to install and work with this mod. i also use the ps4 controller via bluetooth for my remote in console mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nice. Thanks for the feedback.
I haven't been down the play store road, but I would start by installing the tvstock gapps package without removing gsfcore (maybe others?) and don't run the debloat zip after you do so.

tenFootPedal said:
nice. Thanks for the feedback.
I haven't been down the play store road, but I would start by installing the tvstock gapps package without removing gsfcore (maybe others?) and don't run the debloat zip after you do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the tv gapps dont even have google play within the zip so we have too figure out how to install the android tv google play store on this mod we will be all set to go. i have all the system files from the stock nvidia shield tv on my pc trying to swap files to see what i can mimic. but the shield games for the nvidia shield tv works perfectly on this mod.im also trying to see if i can install the stock shield tv firmware on the shield k1. i can get the boot,recovery,system img's to flash successfully but it taking forever to boot. so it seems it dont work but i will keep trying.

So u can install stock Android shield TV games on this mod aye
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk

also this mod works with the 5.1.1 OTA and the 6.0.1 OTA. and the lastest firmware but its a little buggy for me. aslo is there any way to make a uninstaller.zip for this mod. im also still having a hard time to get google play store installed

It would be so great if someone could pack this all up into a flashable ROM. That's something out of my abilities, could someone pretty please make it happen?

phuzznut said:
It would be so great if someone could pack this all up into a flashable ROM. That's something out of my abilities, could someone pretty please make it happen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this were an aosp-based build, I would do it. But since its stock, I didn't feel comfortable doing it. There are some things I should probably do to take some of the steps out and make it easier though.
@brandonlee96, since this deletes a number of stock apks, I'd need to pack them up to put them back to make an uninstaller, which I don't want to do for the same reasons as above. You can do what I do and just make a twrp backup of stock to go back to.

@brandonlee96 Here's your play store problem. TubeSky is missing when tvstock runs on a tablet device. So you need to change this line in your build.prop
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tablet
to this
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tv
before flashing tvstock.
After that, make sure you delete SetupWraith, because it will perpetually crash and restart on boot. I haven't tested it any further than that.

tenFootPedal said:
@brandonlee96 Here's your play store problem. TubeSky is missing when tvstock runs on a tablet device. So you need to change this line in your build.prop
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tablet
to this
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tv
before flashing tvstock.
After that, make sure you delete SetupWraith, because it will perpetually crash and restart on boot. I haven't tested it any further than that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im doing that right now! i will let you know the results.

Apparently play store will auto update itself to the intended device's version. Getting the leanback (TubeSky) version to stay likely involves spoofing your device as an android tv to the play store (via build.prop and/or other means). I don't think I want to devote any more time to play store for now, when apks can be pulled from another device or via Raccoon.

tenFootPedal said:
Apparently play store will auto update itself to the intended device's version. Getting the leanback (TubeSky) version to stay likely involves spoofing your device as an android tv to the play store (via build.prop and/or other means). I don't think I want to devote any more time to play store for now, when apks can be pulled from another device or via Raccoon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have the google play working thank you. i just wondering is there anyway we can beef up this mod? btw the recommendations does work it just didn't load up at this time!

brandonlee96 said:
i have the google play working thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you make it stop auto-updating/replacing the vending package?
brandonlee96 said:
is there anyway we can beef up this mod?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What did you have in mind?

Hi, great thread! Will defenitly be trying this out in the next couple days... but i have a few questions. .
Does GFN work?
Does the system UI mimic ATV? Like the settings menu etc..?
Can we tell the battery level when unplugged?
Also, regarding build.prop edits to mimic the ShieldTV, i haven't changed build.prop to mimic anything in like 4 years haha! so I'm a little rusty, can you kindly show me what lines need changing to successfully spoof the STV?
Also, may be worth adding the Playstore is now working to the OP and credit @brandonlee96 haha
Great work guys! This looks amazing.

ROM for Gamers

It's 2017 now, anyone who owns a 'Fire (5th Generation)' tablet may be playing games, on their tablets nowadays, and is it starting to go sluggish and tired? Should I switch? Why do we put up with this.
Meet "GameWorld OS", based on "Pure Nexus" but edited by a mile, designed for the "Fire (5th Generation)", wanna remove all Amazon junk and basically turn it into a normal gaming android tablet? Well, it's really easy, but the requirements you will need are:
*Root
*Flashfire APK
*Custom Recovery
*Computer
*ADB (if needed)
*SDCard or USB Via OTG Cable
WARNING: FAILURE TO FOLLOW OR DO SOMETHING TERRIBLY WRONG MAY BRICK YOUR DEVICE TO THE POINT WHERE THE BOOTLOADER IS MISSING OR NO OPERATING SYSTEM! PLEASE FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUCCESSION! ALSO, THIS WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY TOO!
NOTE: Go to YouTube to find multiple videos on rooting the "Fire (5th Generation)" if you don't know how to root that device.
NOTE 2: YOU MUST BE ON FIRE OS 5.1.1 OR 5.1.2 OR ELSE THIS WILL NOT WORK!
Now, this ROM currently doesn't have any stores, you will need to transfer Google play apk requirements that are designed for Android 5.1 Lollipop.
To install:
Firstly, backup any data stored on your device as the whole system partition needs to be erased in order for the ROM to install correctly, I recommend "Titanium Backup" as that will back up all your applications to an SDCard or OTG if you own those.
Next, install FlashFire from the internet, if install is blocked, enable unknown sources, after, open up the FlashFire app.
Now backup your ROM in case something seriously wrong occurs to your device or for some reason it gets bricked, then you can fix it.
Now, go to the plus button and add a zip, its recommended to add a zip file containing Google Play etc and the operating system itself.
Afterwards, go to wipe and tick everything!
Finally, check again to make sure you did everything right, if you look at the top of the tablet, you can see everything you ticked, so double check that, and if it looks good, plug in your device and hit "FLASH".
There will be a red banner saying FlashFire for most likely five-ten minutes, so be very patient and do not accidentally power off the tablet!
If you don't understand anything I said, go on YouTube and find videos on installing ROMS on the device.
Here is the link:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12yWavj8omn1vi-Ie1h1qhzMSWgCVw6oi/view
Enjoy

it's nice to see that people still make ROMs for The Fire tablet, hoever, we really do need root for the 7th gen!

What changes does it have compared to los12.1/pure nexus?

A ton changes are gonna be done, battery sounds, alarms, ringtones, keyboard sounds and notification sounds are all different so far, this ROM has root pre-built, Google play store is now here after an update! The launcher is gonna be changed and a kids friendly launcher is gonna be added for parents to monitor their children's activity! Thanks for asking :laugh::fingers-crossed::victory::victory:

Anyone give this a go?

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

Things to do with a rooted fire tv!!

Are you someone who just got their Fire TV rooted and don't know exactly what you can do with it being rooted? Or maybe you haven't rooted yet because you are unsure of what you can do with it rooted? Well hopefully i can shed some light on this with a little guide on things to do, along with some tips and tricks.
First let me get started by saying never forget to make a backup of your Fire TV via TWRP before making changes or tweaks. This is not to freak you out or disparage its just good practice ii have learned in rooting devices. I will cover TWRP later.
One of the best things to come along in the rooting world of android is Xposed installer. In short Xposed is a framework apk that allows users to modify/ customize their devices. This is not done by Xposed Installer per say but the modules that you download with in Xposed installer. So i will show how to install it, how to use and modules that will be beneficial use for Fire TV fyi mouse is need to navigate Xposed.
Xposed installation
1. We need to download the following BusyBox a program that most rooted apps are dependent on here Xposed Installer v3.1.5 here along with Xposed Framework x89 sdk22 arm64 here
2. Install BusyBox however you install side loaded apks. Open BusyBox and click the install button on bottom right. On SU prompt screen grant root access. As you should for root apps you install.
3. Install Xposed Installer, there is no need to open after install because without Xposed Framework installed it doesnt work.
4 Place the Xposed v89 zip onto Fire TV internal or external storage is your choice just remember where so you can point TWRP to it.
5 Reboot into TWRP recovery, choose install, point TWRP to the Xposed zip and on right side of options choose install zip. Let TWRP run its script when it says complete simply reboot and voila Xposed is installed. NOTE it is NORMAL for the first boot to take 10 min after Xposed is installed.
Xposed Tutorial and Modules
Open Xposed installer on be careful screen prompt click box to don't show again and ok. The 3 line icon on top left is menu button. Module option is where you can see and activate modules you install. Download option is where we search for and install modules. After you download a module Fire TV will prompt you to install. Note modules wont work until activated and a reboot.
Modules i find beneficial and know are SAFE are the followingBoot Manager- this allows for you to choose what apps start on boot.
RootCloak- this is designed to hide root app detection. Im assuming it still will hide root but could be wrong worth shot right
Xposed Edge- this is the FUN one that allows a fair share customs tweaks. My fav is remapping of remote buttons ie home button goes to alternative launcher, double tap home opens netflix. Which is great for 3rd party remotes that have a lot of buttons. NOTE There is a pro version as well Note- whenever you make changes in edge you may have to reboot for changes to effect.
DISCLAIMER be careful some modules may cause problems like bootloop and worse so research before you install modules to see if they are compatible
Other Apps
These are apps recommended or useful for rooted devices and for Fire TV useADBLink-allows you connect PC t to Fire TV via adb can install apks, push/pull files, run adb shell.
Easy Fire Tools- Android app that connects to Fire TV via adb can install apps from your android device onto Fire TV, transfer files and other features.
Root Explorer- these apps allow you to manage files but also a way to install side loaded apps, find one that is root friendly so you can access system folders if ever needed.
AdBlocker- we all know why we want one for all my rooted phones always been partial to adaway.
Alternative Home Launcher- who does like Fire TV launcher, really Karen of course you would!
TV App Repo and APK Editor- For those who do use alternative launcher i mention these because TV App Repo allows you to make bookmarks into apks. APK Editor to change the icon and name of TVApp Repo apks because the names and icons are generic.
TWRP
Finally the benefits and how to use TWRP. This allows users to make a backup images of device and ability to restore it when **** goes wrong. You can also do a factory reset.
Backup- after you choose backup from main screen choose select storage and choose storage then click swipe to backup. These can take a while to do seemed like 20 mins or so. Whatever storage you chose will be the default storage until you change it. Note- I have a backup image and its size is 4.5gb so id recommend you need some sort of external storage for these. If there is not enough space backup can not be performed.
Restore- performed same way as backup.
Factory Reset- Just wanted to mention don't forget if you do this and have a backup image on Fire TV internal storage you will lose it.
Hope this helps out

@g422
Thanks for the write up!!!
To be honest, the benefits of rooting appear to be somewhat underwhelming, at least, for the Fire TV. Not a single killer feature/application ...
I do know that it is more convenient to have root than not, but appears to be in pretty subtle ways.
My main use is between SmartYouTubeTV, and Netflix. If I fumble through the Amazon launcher, I am there, and life is good!
Am I missing something?

bibikalka said:
Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.

ldeveraux said:
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???

bibikalka said:
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?

I took no offense to your comments bibikalka. I am inclined to agree that there is a limit of what to do with rooted fire tv especially compared to a phone or tablet. I started this thread to give back to xda who has kept my multiple devices over years rooted. Thread was also done in hopes of getting ideas to do and/or sharing of apps that can be helpful especially now that rooting is allowed for the general masses just not those who were able to jump on board early.

ldeveraux said:
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.

#1 reason I root a fire TV box is so I can use large NTFS drives on the USB port.

Can someone point to me how to fix sd card write permissions. I tried xiinternalsd for xposed but when i open it goes to amazon home screen

g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.

ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant

Imho top reasons for it are Xposed Edge Pro, ad blocking via AdAway (if you use the browser) and finally, the updates issue. While unlikely, it's not impossible for Amazon to get crackin and stop the use of certain third-party apps (NIMH is a giveaway)
Edit: forgot one important one, "debloating" the OS, whether by blocking the startup or disabling packages you don't want/need to give more cpu and memory to apps you do
Without root access, it's Amazon's device; with root access, it's now your device.

g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
g422 said:
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For a while, updates could be blocked without root, but Amazon fixed that hole:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/disable-ota-fire-stick-t3667978
But! You want to block updates so you don't lose root, so it's a bit circular. If you don't have root, you don't care, and just update as per Amazon otas. Btw, I do have updates blocked on my fire sticks
Anyway, please keep the conversation going! We should develop a good set of must have features which are only available via root.

The main reason I root now is to debloat. Go as barebones as possible in order to improve performance. I kill all possible services that are absolutely unnecessary. I've removed Amazons GUI and use Appstarter. I just like a clean fast experience.

Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t

fullofhell said:
Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.

JUSTINMARMER said:
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.

fullofhell said:
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.

JUSTINMARMER said:
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.

fullofhell said:
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is 100% incorrect. I see now you have a reading comprehension disability. I can't imagine how hard that must be for you and I empathize.
Obviously root is needed for magisk modules. I suggested an app to help all those without root.
Bless your heart.

Database Users

welcome