Related
Hey there! I put together a complete video walkthrough for converting your FireTV to an XBMC box.
This includes:
Root
Preventing Amazon updates
Making XBMC the launcher
Installing apps to XBMC homepage
Demo of Mupen64+(N64 emulator) and Reflector (Airplay)
Remember, if you are buying a new FireTV, make sure to follow the instructions here to make sure it doesn't update to an unrootable version. In short, either block access at the router level, or disconnect wifi / ethernet right after you start the device and connect to the network, before the download of the new version can finish.
Enjoy! Let me know if you'd like me to do video walkthroughs of anything else, like using stickmount, connecting to Windows computers over the network, etc.
hotterpop said:
Hey there! I put together a complete video walkthrough for converting your FireTV to an XBMC box. This includes:
Root
Preventing Amazon updates
Making XBMC the launcher
Installing apps to XBMC homepage
Demo of Mupen64+(N64 emulator) and Reflector (Airplay)
Remember, if you are buying a new FireTV, make sure to follow the instructions here to make sure it doesn't update to an unrootable version. In short, either block access at the router level, or disconnect wifi / ethernet right after you start the device and connect to the network, before the download of the new version can finish.
Enjoy! Let me know if you'd like me to do video walkthroughs of anything else, like using stickmount, connecting to Windows computers over the network, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet, nice!
Great walk through wish I could use the whole lot.
Mainly using xbmc and its a great improvement on my Pi but as I am in UK no root so a "here's what you can do with unrooted AFTV" vid would nice, having said that the llama trick for short cut works great and I don't think I need much more
Great Effort. You should do another tutorial using FireTVUtility. I would be easier, w/o any commands to type directly in adb shell.
Legolas2 said:
Great Effort. You should do another tutorial using FireTVUtility. I would be easier, w/o any commands to type directly in adb shell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll look into it. It doesn't look like it really needs any help though- I haven't used this program in particular, but my experience with pc-side all in one solutions is that if they work, they work, and if they don't, there's not much the user can do to fix it. It also seems that the developer is pretty active, so any video I make may be out of date rather quickly. That being said, if other folks agree that there should be a tutorial for this, I'll put it together.
Thanks for passing this utility on, though. Tools like this were essential to me when I started messing with cm 10 on an old phone of mine last year, which extended its useful life until I got my (glorious) OnePlus in July. My experience there really hit me with the modding bug, and I have been messing with android since. The purpose of the video was to help introduce people to the idea that android is open and ready to tinker with, in addition to taking advantage of the FireTV's potential with Kodi. If you have any more requests though, I'd love to hear them, and I'll do my best to fulfill them as time permits
Launcher
Hey, Thx for the awesome Video. Just a question....How do you get it to automatically boot into XBMC? I want to use XBMC as my home screen/launcher like you have shown in your video. I really appreciate it! Thanks!
Correction: HDExposed section
Kdurahm said:
Hey, Thx for the awesome Video. Just a question....How do you get it to automatically boot into XBMC? I want to use XBMC as my home screen/launcher like you have shown in your video. I really appreciate it! Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey there,
Sorry about the confusion. Looks like in my hasty editing I accidentally cut out a step. I've added an annotation to the video that addresses this, so you should be set if you re-watch minutes 21-25 of the video. I accidentally forgot to include that you need to go into the Modules section of HDExposed and, using a mouse, check the two boxes there as well before you reboot.
Thanks for pointing that out!
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Berrybare said:
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey there!
Glad you like my walkthrough. If you use the router-level blocking method, it will need to be applied to any and every network the FireTV connects to. This is a great way to guarantee that the FireTV does not update, but should only be considered a temporary method until you can disable updating permanently on the device itself. If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Because of the issue with devices connecting and automatically updating to an unrootable version, I'd recommend you do the network-level update blocker (like it sounds like you've already done) and then use the device-level root prevention I described in the video.
Please let me know if you have any questions
Berrybare said:
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ultimate protection is having CWM aka custom recovery install. On top of the disabled OTA Update. Both done very easily with the AFTV Utility app mentioned above... Everybody should keep their routers blocking the IP's. Specially if you are going to be working on non-rooted AFTV's. But you can run an CWM'd AFTV on an unblocking router if it can't be helped.
hotterpop said:
Hey there!
Glad you like my walkthrough. If you use the router-level blocking method, it will need to be applied to any and every network the FireTV connects to. This is a great way to guarantee that the FireTV does not update, but should only be considered a temporary method until you can disable updating permanently on the device itself. If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Because of the issue with devices connecting and automatically updating to an unrootable version, I'd recommend you do the network-level update blocker (like it sounds like you've already done) and then use the device-level root prevention I described in the video.
Please let me know if you have any questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I would wait for the next release of both apss (adbFire & AFTV Utility) since so much has change the last 24 hours (unlock bootloader + new CWM). I would love to see a video using the AFTV Utility app to take care of all including the new options. Including the Mount external USB storage script.... It would be massive but all encompassing. I think the only thing waiting for an update is RBox's [XPosed] Mod's... Specifically the menu items part...
Sounds great. Post here when the new software is ready and I will get recording!
hotterpop said:
Sounds great. Post here when the new software is ready and I will get recording!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great.. Will let you know when it gets posted..
hotterpop said:
Hey there!
If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there an adb command to verify the "pm disable com.amazon.dcp" status. I ran this command months ago and have had no unwanted updates ruin root on the Fire TV. Perhaps, it is not necessary but just looking to be sure.
mjbxx said:
Is there an adb command to verify the "pm disable com.amazon.dcp" status. I ran this command months ago and have had no unwanted updates ruin root on the Fire TV. Perhaps, it is not necessary but just looking to be sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know, but if you don't have router level blocking and you haven't received any updates, you are safe. Usually the update occurs quite quickly.
hotterpop said:
I don't know, but if you don't have router level blocking and you haven't received any updates, you are safe. Usually the update occurs quite quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for bumping, I just wondered if there was any advance on the new software/video?
I have an untouched UK AFTV and just waiting for this video with new software for the complete start to finish setup before i do something wrong!
Let me know if im better off just following your first video if this new software stuff is not going to be released for a while.
Thanks
My recommendation is always to code by hand. That's how I learned, and I feel like it's a great way to learn about how Android really works. That being said, it's not for everyone, and I understand any nervousness you may have.
I'll probably have the video using the tool by the end of the week.
hotterpop said:
My recommendation is always to code by hand. That's how I learned, and I feel like it's a great way to learn about how Android really works. That being said, it's not for everyone, and I understand any nervousness you may have.
I'll probably have the video using the tool by the end of the week.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
swiss_lis said:
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand your concern. However, I would definitely consider rooting the device. While you can use XBMC and play emulators on the FTV without root, it is pretty inconvenient. Rooting isn't hard, and shouldn't be something that scares you at all.
If you are willing, my video shows you exactly what to type every step of the way. There's lots of support if you get lost, and you can always ask me questions here- I don't mind looking up documentation for you if you need it. If you have access to your router, once you have blocked the update sites there, you will be safe to take as long as you need to.
I'll try to have the other videos done soon. I wish I had more time in my life right now for stuff like that, but you know we all have to make a living somehow
I'll be sure to post in here when the tutorials are done.
swiss_lis said:
Sorry for bumping, I just wondered if there was any advance on the new software/video?
I have an untouched UK AFTV and just waiting for this video with new software for the complete start to finish setup before i do something wrong!
Let me know if im better off just following your first video if this new software stuff is not going to be released for a while.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
swiss_lis said:
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those that bought their FTV's in the UK or GER & did not import US FTV's. The best you can hope for right now is block the two IP's so it doesn't keep auto updating. In case there is ever a new rooting option. UK & GER FTV's can not be rooted. You should setup your FTV with XBMC & anything else you would like within the unrooted options.
Once you have properly blocked update IP's & boot up & check your FW version which 99.99% chance it will be 51.1.4.0_user_514006420 (Unrootable) . You should feel safe to play with your FTV...
What router do you have ?? This link just shows you pictures of different IP blocking router interfaces like Tomato, DD-WRT, Asus, NetGear, Untangle, OpenDNS..
http://www.aftvnews.com/how-to-block-amazon-fire-tv-update-to-ensure-rooting/
This one tells you what to block now...
http://www.aftvnews.com/how-to-setup-a-new-fire-tv-without-blocking-root/
Method 1: Domain blocking with Router – Recommended Method
1. Before powering on the Fire TV, go into your router’s settings and block access to the following two domains:
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net
softwareupdates.amazon.com
If you do not know how to do this, you can refer to my guide or search the internet for instruction for your particular router.
NOTE: Do NOT block firs-ta-g7g.amazon.com as it is unnecessary for blocking updates and will cause problems during the initial setup if blocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Start enjoying your FTV as soon as you block those IP's correctly after verifying the FW you's came with...
Want to thank you both for good indepth responses.
I will be giving it a go tomorrow hopefully. Hoping that if i block updates for now then a root option may become available somewhere down the line, but till then i will enjoy the improvement of XBMC on the FTV rather than my rather slow raspberry Pi.
Many thanks guys
I always try on not to be a party p**per but also would like to make this debate as civilized as possible so no need to bash me if you found my doubts in a negative way.
But after spending all this time with the Nexus Player of Google, I found myself with the conclusion, why is worthy my time for any root for the device.
At least I have a goal on showing my step-dad that paying DirecTV (Nothing against DirecTV BTW, just want to save money) is not 24/7 cost-effective versus Google Play Service and popular streaming services.
Heck, I didn't even felt left out in terms that versus Apple TV, the Nexus Player is still short without service like WWE, Amazon, NFL, etc. I was happy with the service available as of the writing of this.
To tell you the truth, the exact moment when I read all the possibility for free TV and streaming needs with Kodi (XBMC), I realized that was exactly why I bought the Google Nexus Player on the first place, beside having an alternate set-top box instead of my lovely Playstation 3 and except for improvement on hardware level for Android TV (reboot capacity WILL BE so WELCOMED!) I don't see how rooting the device can be compared as rooting a Smartphone.
Also some needs that we find regularly on Android Smartphone can be requested to Google either by AOSP or direct feedback (I realize that Google might just ignore anyways) and I am pretty sure that future Android 5.0.x or 5.x version will be synonymous of improvements.
No, this is not ignorance and definitely not naive-ness, perhaps I need another point of view to better understand or see more benefits for rooting the device.
Again, please I created this thread as a informative and debatable spot for this topic, do not flame me and not flame each other if you don't agree with an specific opinion.
TheGeeZus said:
I always try on not to be a party p**per but also would like to make this debate as civilized as possible so no need to bash me if you found my doubts in a negative way.
But after spending all this time with the Nexus Player of Google, I found myself with the conclusion, why is worthy my time for any root for the device.
At least I have a goal on showing my step-dad that paying DirecTV (Nothing against DirecTV BTW, just want to save money) is not 24/7 cost-effective versus Google Play Service and popular streaming services.
Heck, I didn't even felt left out in terms that versus Apple TV, the Nexus Player is still short without service like WWE, Amazon, NFL, etc. I was happy with the service available as of the writing of this.
To tell you the truth, the exact moment when I read all the possibility for free TV and streaming needs with Kodi (XBMC), I realized that was exactly why I bought the Google Nexus Player on the first place, beside having an alternate set-top box instead of my lovely Playstation 3 and except for improvement on hardware level for Android TV (reboot capacity WILL BE so WELCOMED!) I don't see how rooting the device can be compared as rooting a Smartphone.
Also some needs that we find regularly on Android Smartphone can be requested to Google either by AOSP or direct feedback (I realize that Google might just ignore anyways) and I am pretty sure that future Android 5.0.x or 5.x version will be synonymous of improvements.
No, this is not ignorance and definitely not naive-ness, perhaps I need another point of view to better understand or see more benefits for rooting the device.
Again, please I created this thread as a informative and debatable spot for this topic, do not flame me and not flame each other if you don't agree with an specific opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dunno, i rooted mine because i really needed to have expandable storage. So i rooted for chainfires stickmount. So i could have all my movies on my external hard drive run through xbmc natively.
↑This!↑
I have not rooted mine but if i do it will be for the ex-storage as well.. i am at the point of not storing a lot of movies because they are almost all online for a fee or free if you go that way.. We watch a movie once or twice and that is the end of it.. So to add to your debate i don't at this point see why you would root this device.
Would like a reboot function..
Im sure someone will come up with some nice ways to use root.. give them a week or so lol..
The main current use for rooting in my home is support for PS3 & 4 controllers wirelessly, using stick mount & folder mount to store game data and kodi data on an external drive and the ability to modify xml to re-arrange the order of programs in the NP's leanback interface (kodi gets top billing). My daughters now have immediate access to over twenty very large installed games so far thanks to folder mount. I also store all my kodi fanart, cover art, cd art, etc on the external as it takes up so much space internally for my large media collection that kodi accesses from my nas.
There will be future uses for root as well, of course (there always is), but these were my immediate needs.
Elrondolio said:
The main current use for rooting in my home is support for PS3 & 4 controllers wirelessly, using stick mount & folder mount to store game data and kodi data on an external drive and the ability to modify xml to re-arrange the order of programs in the NP's leanback interface (kodi gets top billing).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recently rooted my NP, and I'm completely new to android and rooting. My main desire is to be able to get all of my sideloaded apps into the leanback interface, and to be able to rearrange the order and hide app icons I don't use. I've noticed by default Kodi RC2 appears in the leanback interface.
Do you have any tips for modifying the leanback interface in the way I've described?
kaess said:
I recently rooted my NP, and I'm completely new to android and rooting. My main desire is to be able to get all of my sideloaded apps into the leanback interface, and to be able to rearrange the order and hide app icons I don't use. I've noticed by default Kodi RC2 appears in the leanback interface.
Do you have any tips for modifying the leanback interface in the way I've described?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since things are so new with the leanback launcher there hasn't been much time for any semi-automated tools/apps to be coded to accomplish what you want. Manually, however, is very doable depending on your desired time investment.
You can modify select sideloaded apps to make them show up on the leanback interface by uncompressing its apk, editing its manifest then re-compressing and re-sideloading. See this post: How to sideload XBMC/Kodi on Nexus Player. See also this helpful post from @zlexy : [Q] Launching Netflix From Within Kodi.
You can re-arrange the order of apps listed in the leanback interface by editing leanback launcher's database. See this post by @ariful : [Q] Rearranging Apps on Android TV Nexus Player.
Again, these methods are a bit labour intensive... it'll have to be that way until more devs start/finish coding for this brand new interface/device and/or for Google to release more customizable updates. Good luck.
Elrondolio said:
Since things are so new with the leanback launcher there hasn't been much time for any semi-automated tools/apps to be coded to accomplish what you want. Manually, however, is very doable depending on your desired time investment.
You can modify select sideloaded apps to make them show up on the leanback interface by uncompressing its apk, editing its manifest then re-compressing and re-sideloading. See this post: How to sideload XBMC/Kodi on Nexus Player. See also this helpful post from @zlexy : [Q] Launching Netflix From Within Kodi.
You can re-arrange the order of apps listed in the leanback interface by editing leanback launcher's database. See this post by @ariful : [Q] Rearranging Apps on Android TV Nexus Player.
Again, these methods are a bit labour intensive... it'll have to be that way until more devs start/finish coding for this brand new interface/device and/or for Google to release more customizable updates. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The last thing you said is exactly why I am resisting the temptation.
I am being fair with the fact that this is the first face of Android Tv and there is yet more to see and I am faithful that most feature that needs root for now, Google might have something on their sleeves, but they are waiting to see how many Nexus Player gets sold, specially after the holidays.
My mom and my step-dad were impressed with the Nexus Player so great, that my step-dad sold me the Google Chromecast as he wanted to have an experience on his own and he really didn't find the Cast environment hard but he liked the more controlled environment of the Nexus Player, so we are buying a second one for me and I will let him take the first one after the second arrives.
I think that is another example that rooting (again, my exception is that a proven restart method gets developed) for now is not needed in base of a normal usage and still haven't got the problem of storage (yet, I know the day will come).
or even better in designated folders.. as far as I understand, this can be done after rooting right? but I'd rather not go down that route (at least atm) as I haven't a clue what I'm doing & the methods I've seen for the Shield TV are a little complicated for me (is there an automated method?)
Advice would be appreciated.
If you want to use the LeanBack (default) launcher you have to download SideLoad Launcher from the play store, otherwise you can flash Zulu99's ROM that gives you the default Android experience.
Agreed. I want to root my Android TV, but every thread I read is a little different, and since I don't have much experience doing it, I don't even know where to start. I'd rather wait until I've understood the process better before taking a chance at bricking my console.
Root is dead simple on this device. It's literally not requiring exploits and roots like a nexus device. You unlock the bootloader with very easy instructions, and can even leave the stock recovery if you are worried about things like that. I'm also pretty sure, though don't quote me, that unless you do something massively strange and unlikely, like changing partition sizes, that going back to stock, and relocking is always possible. At least it is on almost every single factory unlockable device on the market. No risk, I recommend it. That being said, you don't need root to sideload as stated abbove. Just get the launcher they recommended by chainfire, nistall it, then grab something like es file explorer, both in the play store, then install apk files from es file explorer, and launch from teh other launcher. The stock launcher launches the other one as the stock launcher can only display android TV supported apps, but the other launcher can display any android app, hence having a launcher inside a launcher.
Hope this helps.
I'd like to flash Steele01's Cyanogenmod 12.1 and use the twrp multi-rom, but from what I've seen, he's still working out a lot of kinks with the console since it's different from the Shield tablet.
If it wasn't for ES Explorer, I'd really be limited. At least I've been able to install Amazon Prime Instant Video and some other apps using their apk files. As far as the launcher inside of a launcher, are you referring to the crappy Sideload Launcher that's available through Leanback Launcher's play store? I saw the full Android mod for the Android TV, and it looks awesome. It looks exactly like you would expect any Android product to look. This whole Leanback Launcher is very disappointing. I feel like someone enabled Kid's mode on their tablet or something. I guess I'm thinking too much into this, and I should just go ahead and do it. Like you said, I could always go back to stock recovery, which from what I understand will need to be done anyway to receive any further updates.
Rolldog said:
I'd like to flash Steele01's Cyanogenmod 12.1 and use the twrp multi-rom, but from what I've seen, he's still working out a lot of kinks with the console since it's different from the Shield tablet.
If it wasn't for ES Explorer, I'd really be limited. At least I've been able to install Amazon Prime Instant Video and some other apps using their apk files. As far as the launcher inside of a launcher, are you referring to the crappy Sideload Launcher that's available through Leanback Launcher's play store? I saw the full Android mod for the Android TV, and it looks awesome. It looks exactly like you would expect any Android product to look. This whole Leanback Launcher is very disappointing. I feel like someone enabled Kid's mode on their tablet or something. I guess I'm thinking too much into this, and I should just go ahead and do it. Like you said, I could always go back to stock recovery, which from what I understand will need to be done anyway to receive any further updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recommend trying it out with a cestom rom, as long as you are willing to unlock. I have since gone back to stock after trying both as I needed/wanted 2 features. The streaming button (there is a paid alternative) and the headphones on the controller. Keep in mind you also give up wireless controller, hence the headphones, by going to other roms. I use a monitor, and without a USB DAC I don't have sound if I give up wireless. I have simply settled for running 2 sidebar launchers, and it's working great for me. Also, Market Helper is good as it'll tell the play store (web version) that you are using a Nexus 7, ect, and can install most apps that way easily without having to sidelead everything. It'll also handle auto-updates ironicly ,ith stock play store app. Hopefully that'll help you decide. Please let us know what you did and why as we as a community like to know users needs. If you get stuck at any part of the process, please PM me or ask on the forums. We'd be glad to help with anything!
I don't have any problems with unlocking it, I, like you, just want to be sure I don't lose any features of the Shield. Losing game streaming and the wireless controller sound like a deal breaker. I'm sure it's just a matter of time before someone fixes these issues in a custom ROM. The wireless controller is configured using WiFi Direct. Even on Nvidia's website, they're all for people rooting their device and customizing it the way people want. One guy, who works for Nvidia was saying that they're definitely not against people rooting it because once someone buys it, they're willing to do whatever they want with it. So hopefully, we'll see Nvidia release more info to help people develop custom ROMs without losing any of the functionality of the device. Aren't there custom ROMs you can flash onto the Shield Tablet and still be able to use the wireless controller?
Is Market Helper an apk to install on the console? And what sidebar launchers are you using? There are times when I try using Shield Hub to connect to my local PC and it not work, and then I try with Moonlight, and it works everytime. I also like using the remote desktop feature. If you add the remote desktop app manually into the GeForce Experience software on your PC, then using the Shield, you can connect to your desktop using either Moonlight or Shield Hub and your TV mirrors your monitor.
kdb424 said:
Root is dead simple on this device. It's literally not requiring exploits and roots like a nexus device. You unlock the bootloader with very easy instructions, and can even leave the stock recovery if you are worried about things like that. I'm also pretty sure, though don't quote me, that unless you do something massively strange and unlikely, like changing partition sizes, that going back to stock, and relocking is always possible. At least it is on almost every single factory unlockable device on the market. No risk, I recommend it. That being said, you don't need root to sideload as stated abbove. Just get the launcher they recommended by chainfire, nistall it, then grab something like es file explorer, both in the play store, then install apk files from es file explorer, and launch from teh other launcher. The stock launcher launches the other one as the stock launcher can only display android TV supported apps, but the other launcher can display any android app, hence having a launcher inside a launcher.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to forget Es file explores send by land feature which is great for sending apks from other devices to your shield
Apparently Netflix is going to start blocking rooted and unlocked users from downloading the app through the Play Store through safety net check criteria. I searched on my 6p for the Play Store just now and it did not have a listing but checking on my shield TV I did find it. I don't know if they are just blocking the rooted users from downloading the app or if they're planning on blocking rooted users from using the app. I believe this all has to do with DRM content.
To be fair I can't see much reason beyond adding Plex Channels (to Plex (durr!)), why anyone would even want to bother with root on the Shield TV. Thankfully that level of root can be achieved simply enough. Without opening the whole /system partition. By just symlinking the needed Directory outside of /system. But, the catch 22 of that is you still have to have a systemless root to do it which means you have to manually open, and shut the /system partition again afterwards. Alas I will have to "test" this out again eventually. But for the moment APV is working 100% under this config. The only place where this type of root fails is at AdAway (Blocking Ads). As I haven't been able to create a working simlink for it.
Besides, Phones are one thing the Shield is something totally different. Netflix doesn't need to be installed from the PlayStore. It's a system application, along with Amazon, BBC, and VuDu. As such I have made such a test as to uninstall the last Update, which I was able to reinstall just fine.
As to any further testing of Netflix I will wait a few more weeks untill my old Phone Contact runs out, and then invest that capital on a Netflix 4k Sub.
Otherwise I am bootloader unlocked. So we'll just have to see. But, does the Shield TV even have a Samsung type eFuse (e.g. Knox Flag?!) that trips if your unlocked?! I have to say that I'm not aware of there being one on the Shield TV. Again this 'practice' seems all to common on Phones. But, again the SATV is NOT a neither a Phone, nor does it run a Phone OS.
Until now is only on google side. To workaround this use magisk to root.
I recommend you to take a look at full android nougat development, you might be interested mostly for the next version when Nvidia is supposed to fix some major bugs and because zulu99 has an awesome solution in mind in response to google that will be implemented on next FAN version.
https://youtu.be/yTf55-PXC8k
Sent from my Tapatalk beta Hub
If I helped hit the Thanks button. Follow Me! ~ DroidMote user ~ Full Android for Shield TV and Nexus Player
lavero.burgos said:
Until now is only on google side. To workaround this use magisk to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does Magisk work for the Shield TV? Is there a tutorial anywhere?
colino17 said:
Does Magisk work for the Shield TV? Is there a tutorial anywhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know that it works with full Android nougat by zulu99, which is the ROM I use.
Sent from my Tapatalk beta Hub
If I helped hit the Thanks button. Follow Me! ~ DroidMote user ~ Full Android for Shield TV and Nexus Player
Ichijoe said:
To be fair I can't see much reason beyond adding Plex Channels (to Plex (durr!)), why anyone would even want to bother with root on the Shield TV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think replacing the launcher is the primary reason people would want to root the shield. It's the only reason I've done it since Leanback is just sort of clunky.
Platform: Fire HD 8 (6th edition)
OS: 5.4.0.1
Willing to rollback?: Yes (it has broken some email functionality)
Launcher: Nova paid
I have activity launcher installed, as well as launcherhijack v3.
I have set the home screen button in accessibility, and have Nova enabled as the home. I have Nova enabled as the launcher, but have not deleted the fire launcher, as I would prefer not to.
The issue I'm having is that I can't seem to use widgets. I have read up on adb use for the fire, but Windows doesn't want to play nicely, and I don't currently have a linux machine available (yes, I could VM one, or setup a bootable USB, but I'm looking for a solution that would work with what I have currently in place).
Issue: Any time I go to place a widget on a Nova launcher screen, it brings up the list per normal, but when I go to place the widget, I get bounced back to the Kindle settings UI, and am unable to sort out a workaround.
Any suggestions would be appreciated, particularly if they don't require ADB, as so far Windows does not want to allow me to update the ADB drivers (it shows them as current stock drivers and functioning, as well as stating that the ones from google are a no-go).
Sadly, pushed the update when I did not expect it, so all of this was done after update rolled out. Play store was isntalled prior, and settings are for allowing debugging and developer settings, so at least I got the play store on prior to the update (which apparently some people are having issues with). For me, the store is working well, as is sideloading, which is why I'm thinking there must be a reliable solution to get widgets functioning in Nova without needing to ADB command it on.
Thank you,
--bb
No, you definitely need a working adb, it's your gate to all Fire HD hacks and improvements. If you can't - stay with Amazon bits and don't ask questions like this here.
Thanks to @DragonFire1024, we have a pretty nice hack to enable widgets on any launcher; it's very easy to apply and use. But PLEASE don't complain about prerequisites, if you can't get adb working on Windows, it's better to stay off all hacks and actually this site. Just enjoy your Amazon Fire HD (it's pretty cool even with OEM software installed).
Agreed! There is no need to be rude to those who are just learning. I appreciate those like Dragon who gives help to others without making them feel like idiots. With the help of this forum, I have gotten everything but gmail working! And that weird go to black screen and back to lock screen when I swipe application off the screen. An sure it will get fixed.
The widget script might work in a terminal emulator. Jack Pals on the play store is by far the best. Just search for terminal emulator for Android, place the script in the internal storage and try running it in the emulator. I honestly don't know if that will work though as all the hacks I do are usually with ADB.
DragonFire1024 said:
The widget script might work in a terminal emulator. Jack Pals on the play store is by far the best. Just search for terminal emulator for Android, place the script in the internal storage and try running it in the emulator. I honestly don't know if that will work though as all the hacks I do are usually with ADB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! I will give that a try.
Let's try to keep the comments directly related to Q&A for this device.
Getting snarky with other users and starting a back and forth argument is off-topic, and usually rude (both violations of the rules).
So, please; keep the Off-topic back and forth off the thread. If you are offended by, or feel another user's comment violates the rules, simply REPORT the comment and do not engage the other user further. No need to add MORE clutter.
Thanks for your cooperation.
sensboston said:
No, you definitely need a working adb, it's your gate to all Fire HD hacks and improvements. If you can't - stay with Amazon bits and don't ask questions like this here.
Thanks to @DragonFire1024, we have a pretty nice hack to enable widgets on any launcher; it's very easy to apply and use. But PLEASE don't complain about prerequisites, if you can't get adb working on Windows, it's better to stay off all hacks and actually this site. Just enjoy your Amazon Fire HD (it's pretty cool even with OEM software installed).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please explain to me how I can update the ADB? I'm not familiar with how to do this at all.
https://www.xda-developers.com/install-adb-windows-macos-linux/
Yeah, but...
bladebarrier said:
https://www.xda-developers.com/install-adb-windows-macos-linux/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is where I started, but I have been unable to find a way to find anything mentioning ADB (much less enable it) on our Fire HD 8 (7th Generation).
I have been looking through multiple guides for the past 20 minutes, but the newest firmware seems to have hidden or disabled the ability on the actual device. I am logged into the tablet on the main account, but even under "Device Administrators" it says "No available device administrators".
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Edit: Fire OS 5.6.1.0
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Yes, they did. It's the razor and blades business model. Such as one item is sold at a low price (or given away for free) in order to increase sales of a complementary goods.
When you go into the Setting then into Device Options, is Developer Options at the bottom of the list? If it isn't I think you need to tap the Serial Number 7 times, then it should appear and that is where you can enable ADB.
The dedication of the members of the xda forums are the only reason why a lot of devices such as these manage to reach their potential. I'm pretty new here (joined in February) but I never seen any member give up on a device. What most see as frustration, including myself, a lot of the members here not only see a challenge but an opportunity.
caldersm44 said:
Agreed! There is no need to be rude to those who are just learning. I appreciate those like Dragon who gives help to others without making them feel like idiots. With the help of this forum, I have gotten everything but gmail working! And that weird go to black screen and back to lock screen when I swipe application off the screen. An sure it will get fixed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For now without a rooted device the kick to the lock screen cannot be fixed. That is an unfortunate event which is a result of disabling fire launcher without root. Gmail is give or take. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. If I really had to take a guess I would say Google and Amazon are fighting between each other to get Gmail to work or stop working. It seems when enough users complain Gmail stops working within a few minutes it works again in a couple days later Amazon stops it. I would go back to an old version of Gmail, take your pick and keep trying different versions from there. If he older versions don't work that I'm at a loss at the moment. I do not currently use Gmail on my Amazon tablets. Only because I get too much mail lol. however with that having been said I have never had a problem with Gmail on any of my Amazon tablets with or without root.
dondraper23 said:
Did Amazon manage to lock these down to be nothing but a pimp for Amazon (as was their intended goal)?
Yes, they did. It's the razor and blades business model. Such as one item is sold at a low price (or given away for free) in order to increase sales of a complementary goods.
When you go into the Setting then into Device Options, is Developer Options at the bottom of the list? If it isn't I think you need to tap the Serial Number 7 times, then it should appear and that is where you can enable ADB.
The dedication of the members of the xda forums are the only reason why a lot of devices such as these manage to reach their potential. I'm pretty new here (joined in February) but I never seen any member give up on a device. What most see as frustration, including myself, a lot of the members here not only see a challenge but an opportunity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reminder of how to enable Developer Options - it has been a while since I had to do that. ADB is now enabled!
Thanks to everyone in the xda-developers community!
AnotherNameFFS said:
Thanks for the reminder of how to enable Developer Options - it has been a while since I had to do that. ADB is now enabled!
Thanks to everyone in the xda-developers community!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you got it enabled! It's one of those steps that is easy to forget
Why are you saying that he should get off the site. Thats rude