Database Users

[Tutorial] [OTA 3.0] [Nvidia Shield Tablet] How to debloat and optimize ota 3.0

DISCLAIMER: though this seems safe, there are always risks. Warranty may be void, bugs might crawl out of your shield. I am not responsible for mishaps, bugs, crashes, damage, loss of jobs, girlfriends, and/or if your shield turns into Skynet and begins to destroy the human race!
Firstly, throughout this tutorial I will be shamelessly pointing you toward others threads. Please, give them your thanks. They are masters in their fields and with out them none of this would be happening! Also remember noone gets paid for any of this, they with their skills and I with time do this out love for tech and a desire to help others and see them enjoy their tech as much as we all love ours. That said... Onto the cookies!
*********PLEASE NOTE*********
*********THIS ENTIRE PROCESS CAN BE DONE WITH OUT ANY ACCESS TO A PC!
--BUT--
TO KEEP A LOCKED BOOTLOADER AND AVOID WARRANTY NASTYNESS PLEASE READ
*If you are still on a locked bootloader, and want to easily keep it. Root ota 2.2.1 first, install flashify, and use it to install twrp.
*Rooting ota 3. 0 and using flashify from there will also preserve locked bootloader.
*Rooted ota 2.2.1 or a custom recovery will break nvidias native ota system. You will have need a copy if the FULL OTA from the links provided. They flash easily in twrp. But ONLY THE FULL OTA, NOT THE INCREMENTAL.
******PREREQUISITES (These Are Required)******
*Must be rooted.
If coming from stock, (unrooted, stock recovery, and locked bootloader) Kingroot will root any ota so far.
Install apk, run it, it will most likely reboot your shield, on ota 3 it will freeze, (mine did at around 30% on ota 3, but instead of a reboot, I got a freeze) this is normal. Hold power button until the shield turns off. Boot back up, and run Kingroot again. It should now complete fine, installing Kinguser as root control app. This gives you enough root to run flashify from play store to install the next step. (thanks to China for making kingroot and whoever translated it for us)
Kingroot link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/one-click-root-tool-android-2-x-5-0-t3107461
*Team Win Recovery Project (twrp) must be installed.
Head over here to @Steel01 thread for multi rom twrp. You will only (at the moment) need his modified twrp build. More instructions there. Don't forget to thank him! (Thanks @Steel01)
@Steel01 multi rom twrp thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/shield-tablet/development/multirom-v30-unofficial-port-t3025355
*ota 3.0 FULL OTA (thanks to @MidgetMob)
Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/shi...k-recovery-images-ota-library-guides-t2988881
*MEGA may or may NOT work. Mega has issues from time to time. (thanks @Ctrl_Alt_Del for the heads up)
****If MEGA links are not working, here's another source.
Thanks @gavin-phelan for the links.
OTHER Link for full ota: http://forum.xda-developers.com/shield-tablet/general/android-5-1-t3115536
*SuperSU recovery flashable installer. (thanks to @Chainfire)
Link to supersu beta (beta works better for the xposed framework):
http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/2014-09-02-supersu-v2-05-t2868133
*Fdroid store for selinux mode changer (needed for viper) and ad away apps! (thanks Fdroid!)
Link: https://f-droid.org
*****OPTIONAL*****
*Xposed super alpha for Android 5.1 (sdk22) (thanks @romracer)
Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/super-alpha-posted-permission-xposed-t3072979
You must read that thread a bit. You will need the xposed installer from the main xposed lollipop thread. (thanks @rovo89)
Main xposed thread
Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3034811
*Gravitybox works on 5.1 now (thanks @C3C076)
Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/modules/app-gravitybox-v5-0-0alpha-tweak-box-t3037566
*BusyBox - Busybox is required for viper4android install. Make sure to run and install it BEFORE YOU INSTALL VIPER DRIVER. The apk can be installed, but when you run it. It will try to install the viper driver. Selinux must be set to permissive, and busybox installed first.
It can be found in play store.
*selinuxmodechanger can be found in fdroid repository.
*ViPER4Android audio engine (thanks @zhuhang)
For viper install. Be sure to install fdroid and get selinux mode changer. And change to permissive BEFORE YOU INSTALL VIPER DRIVER. the app is fine but for the driver to install selinux must be set to permissive. After that it's fine to set it back to enforcing.
Link: http://vipersaudio.com/blog/?page_id=48
Forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2191223
Someone said cookies? (Procedure)
**tip** titanium backup SUCKS FOR backing up app data. Bugs out the apps sometimes. So for games, manually backup saves and place them back after reinstall. It's helpful to use tibu to backup your apps alone. Then use tibu again to make a recovery flashable zip to reinstall them all at once....
*Firstly you will need a root enabled file browser (I use es file explorer)
*On the internal memory, firstly back up any pics or ANYTHING you want saved from internal memory to the external SD card. (I usually name my backup folders starting with a # to keep them separated from anything that's written to external via an app or the system. Helps to keep track.)
*Next delete it ALL. In es file Explorer just as everything in sdcard0. /android gone, all folders, ax them. I even nuked the hidden folders and all. I wanted a totally clean install. So anything in the /sdcard0 folder can get wiped. As wiping through twrp DOES NOT WIPE THESE FILES. And sometimes can cause oddness on new installs. This can also be achieved through twrp but it takes longer. Keep in mind that everything inside /sdcard is rebuilt on FIRST boot. Hence deleting in twrp. Don't navigate to straight / things go bad if you mess about in those files....
*After everything has been deleted on internal, and the folders your not using for backups on external. Namely the /android folder on external. You should be ready to reboot to recovery....
*Now reboot into twrp. Click wipe, advanced, then check dalvik, system, data, and cache. Wipe
*Now flash the FULL OTA for your model of shield.
*Next click the home button in twrp. Then Mount, then, uncheck the box for system, then, re-check it. (remount system)
*Now click on the Home button again, Advanced, File Manager.....
*Now the fun part...
Navigate to /system/app and delete the following FOLDERS, contents and all, by clicking on each folder one at a time, once clicked, it will show you contents of that folder. At the bottom click select, then delete, swipe to delete. For each of the following folders....
++*NOTICE* Some of these folders contain libs (library files) and i discovered some issues with deleting them. (videos not working, possible connection console mode crashing, etc) These folders are indicated below, and any side effects possible due to its removal. Console mode has been solid so far even without the libs. That doesnt mean that it wont cause any issues later and i just havent seen it yet. So BEWARE o0o0o =D
Adobe reader
Books
Calendar
++**Chrome (I use chrome beta) (CONTAINS LIBS) possible connection to the "great chrome slowdown" These ARE SAFE to remove and removal may cure the slowdown bug. either way, using any browser BUT chrome (i.e. Chrome Beta, Dolphin, Opera etc.) also fixes the "Chrome slug races"
Cloud print
Input methods for Japanese and Korean (unless you need it)
++**Drive (CONTAINS LIBS) i havent noticed any side effects from removing these and SHOULD BE SAFE to delete. also i use es file explorer for drive access
Email (I use inbox)
Evernote
Evernote widget
Exchange2
Gmail (I use inbox or reinstall from store)
++**Hangouts (CONTAINS LIBS) i use hangouts for OUTGOING PHONE CALLS, as such i feel these libs are POSSIBLY NOT SAFE to remove. i havent found any issues so far but BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY on an essential core sytem
Holo spiral
Google tts (optional)
Juswrite (I don't use the stylus or handwriting)
latinIME (aosp keyboard)
++**Maps (CONTAINS LIBS) i havent found any issues but NAVIGATION to me is an essential core system therefore i feel these are POSSIBLY NOT SAFE to remove. again BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY
Music2 (I use gonemad music player or reinstall from store)
Newstand
Nvcameraawesome (it sucked and I use camera51)
Phase beam
Play games
++**Print spooler (CONTAINS LIBS) never use(d) it so i dunno really. SHOULD BE SAFE to remove (feedback welcome)
Street
Stylusmobileoem (like I said I don't even HAVE a stylus (unless someone has an extra they are willing to mail....)
Talkback
Trine 2 (unless you like it)
Twitch (unless you use it, also in play store)
++**Videos (CONTAINS LIBS) I had issues playing embedded videos in play store (app trailers) and some websites. i would recommend DO NOT REMOVE THIS. i ONLY left this here for info only. remove ONLY AT YOUR OWN RISK
Write (again with stylus stuff)
++**Youtube (CONTAINS LIBS) never had any issues removing this. but i feel it could be related to my above mentioned video playback bug. this is OPTIONAL.
*now navigate to /system/priv-app
Delete folder musicfx (needs to be gone or disabled for viper4android audio install)
*now navigate to /system/vendor/app
Delete the folder watercolor (dabbler can be gotten from play store)
*if you feel busy /system/media/audio is where the ring tones are and you can delete the ones you don't use for more space but it's only 3mb....
*FINALLY hit the home button in twrp again.
**DO NOT FORGET** Install superSU beta for root!!!
*REBOOT!!
*After system boots up and gets done optimizing, it's safe to reboot back to twrp and flash the xposed framework.
*You're done! That's it... Wait... What? You want even MORE cookies? Well, OK....
*Keep reading for optional steps for even better results!
***PS... Keep checking our friend's @BitOBSessiOn and @twistedumbrella threads for really great kernels for our ota..
Thanks @BitOBSessiOn
Thanks @twistedumbrella
Links:
Bito: http://forum.xda-developers.com/shi.../tweaked-kernel-nvidia-shield-tablet-t3069776
++++++ ***check out @BitOBSessiOn thread, ota 3.0 source built, optimized kernels for all models released!
NEW UNIFIED BUILDS FOR OTA 3.0 (ONE FILE FOR ALL MODELS)
Twistedumbrella: 2.2.1 ONLY http://forum.xda-developers.com/shi...t/stock-lollipop-kernel-cifs-support-t2967839
And some more post script.
PPS **tips**
*System apps always keep a copy of themselves for when it gets updated, so all those apps (that you just deleted) end up being over 400 mb after they all update once. And they ALL HAVE updates at time of install. So you save there. Just takes a minute to reinstall as user apps from the play store,and save a bunch of space.
***WIFI ISSUES!** If you do NOT HAVE a 5ghz router. Go to wifi settings, advanced, wifi band, switch from auto to 2.4ghz, makes the Web run faster and if it's set to auto I notice a good 40 second delay in wifi connecting. Also make sure the box "wifi always scan" is turned in. Otherwise wifi doesn't auto connect at boot.
*Get folder mount from the play store. It automagically patches android to let apps write to external SD. As well as links folders on external to internal so you can move ANY app to sd card. Profit!
*For a cleaner install. Install fdroid, then ad away. And run ad away before you ever open more than play store for es file Explorer to install fdroid. This way ad away is the first or one of the first apps to open. Blocking ads from that point on. That way if apps have built in ads, they won't even be able to load!
*Also thanks to @djdarkknight96 here's a link for a bad ass themed SwiftKey keyboard
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1016053
*To improve system responsiveness, enable developer options (In settings, click about tablet, click build number 7 times.) Then in developer options about midway down, turn "window animation scale" "transition animation scale" and "animator duration scale" from 1.0 to .5 this increases the speed of animations throughout the system/rom
*After installing the gravitybox xposed module, you can turn those 3 animation scales down further to .25 for even faster response.
*Native lcd density for shield tablet is 283.
It comes stock at 320
*Nvidia corporate tegra color scheme. Green is hex (#76b900) rgb (r:118 g:185 b:0), and grey, hex (#5c5c5c) not sure greys rgb. And black.... I looked it up in their corporate and product guidelines pdf.
*You can add apps to console mode by clicking the little + symbol under "android games" and "media apps" in shield hub. They will then be added to the "easier" to navigate shield hub menu.
*In the play store kernel adiutor (yes that's how it's spelled) allows control over the cpu speed and other critical stuff and things. To squeeze alot more juice from your battery, if everything else here is done, I found I could clock the cpu @2ghz (200mhz down from stock) and it's just as fast as true stock. Killer battery savings on top of the improvements already made in ota 3.0
*If you adjust the clock speeds in kernel adiutor... Make sure to reset the minimum to 51 every time and sit and watch to make sure they stuck. They will float around, then settle. But if you exit after altering the max and the minimum is floating high, it will set the minimum to that value.... Found THAT out the hard way......
*The letters that form the word "SHIELD" on the back of our devices.... Are stickers in small indents.... Looks really kewl if taken out. (see post #13 for pics)
+ *POSSIBLE USB ON THE GO (OTG) FIX*
Power off your shield, plug in USB OTG cable with a flash drive in it. Power on the shield. Once booted, pull flash drive and use whatever OTG compatible device you wish (mouse, keyboard, micro missile launcher--thanks ThinkGeek!))
ONE CONDITION! This method BREAKS CHARGING UNTIL NEXT REBOOT! (thanks nvidia!)
Enjoy!
Questions and comments always welcomed and encouraged!
If i forgot something, missed a step, whatever. Let me know!
I'll update/add to this if/when I think of things.
Ideas? Let me know!
CHECK POST #2 FOR UPDATE TIMES.
I'll try to highlight changes until I update again.
Look for the + symbol
Cheers,
Cyris
Mmm cookies just like mom makes!

Just a reminder! ALWAYS CHECK THE MD5 CHECKSUM FOR DOWNLOADED FILES. Md5 checker in play store works great. It can certainly save some headaches!
A SECOND MORE IMPORTANT REMINDER, KEEP A COPY OF YOUR FULL OTA IN THE ROOT OF YOUR EXTERNAL SD CARD. THAT WAY IF THE LIQUID DEFECATION TRULY STRIKES THE AUXILIARY ROTOR. YOU CAN USE NVIDIAS BACKUP STOCK RECOVERY (AT BUGDROID (ANDY ON HIS BACK WITH A RED ! OVER IT) HIT "VOLUME UP" + "POWER") TO WIPE DATA AND FLASH A STOCK FULL OTA AND GET BACK UP AND RUNNING AGAIN. THEN USE KINGROOT, THEN FLASHIFY, THEN TWRP, TO GET ROOT BACK AND CUSTOM RECOVERY....
**UPDATES**
Times are Pacific (my local)
+Initial post 5/25 @ 1300 (apx)
+Updated 5/25 @ 1655
+Updated 5/25 @ 1730
+Updated 5/25 @ 1810 - make sure you check this one for viper audio install
+Updated 5/25 @ 2304 - new full ota links
+Updated 5/26 @ 1030 - @BitOBSessiOn ota 3 kernel release, links posted
+Updated 5/26 @ 1546 - Added usb-otg temporary fix
+Updated 5/27 @ 2200 - Cleanup OP, removed old + symbols
+Updated 6/17 @ 1430 - Added info on folders containing LIBS in the wiping section.

Nice! I will report back once I have redone my tablet.
And please, give me some time. It's the end of a holiday weekend & I have a few things to do before going back to work Tuesday.

Ctrl_Alt_Del said:
Nice! I will report back once I have redone my tablet.
And please, give me some time. It's the end of a holiday weekend & I have a few things to do before going back to work Tuesday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries. I created this thread for a laid back easy way to (try) and get the most from our device. Xda was always my go to place to find help and it's a bit different now. Not everyone is a developer, but it shouldn't be hard to get knowledge from those that are. Hell I'm no dev, just like to test stuff, a crack flasher. But at one time I didn't know what root was..... We all were. I know I love it when I show someone my device I spent 100s of hours tweaking just right and the look on their face! At one time that was me. I had to ask questions that probably got a few chuckles. But usually there was someone there to ask. If i can help I figure I SHOULD,
As I said I encourage questions. It may help someone else later on. Cheers!

... Wrong button.....

All is well. And the wipe,install directions from TWRP went flawlessly.
As soon as it booted, I was presented with the Welcome screen, as if it were a brand new device, unlike just updating an older OS. Chose the language, if I had a Google account & signed in...all that cookie dust. Apps from the list I have backed up to the Google servers under my account downloaded & installed automagically.
And best of all....no more "Android is Starting" & no more "optimizing the apps" at cold startup! Big thumbs up there! :good:
By the way, I could not get the full install from the link you provided from another user. It went to Mega & Mega is having transfer issues. It would download about 10 thru 15 % then flash something about a transfer error, then reduce the file transferred back down to 8 or 9 %...then download that again up to around 12 % or so, then back down to 8 %....lather, rinse, repeat...indefinitely! I used this user's link in his post to get the correct ROM: Android 5.1 out now
Just an FYI there.

Ctrl_Alt_Del said:
All is well. And the wipe,install directions from TWRP went flawlessly.
As soon as it booted, I was presented with the Welcome screen, as if it were a brand new device, unlike just updating an older OS. Chose the language, if I had a Google account & signed in...all that cookie dust. Apps from the list I have backed up to the Google servers under my account downloaded & installed automagically.
And best of all....no more "Android is Starting" & no more "optimizing the apps" at cold startup! Big thumbs up there! :good:
By the way, I could not get the full install from the link you provided from another user. It went to Mega & Mega is having transfer issues. It would download about 10 thru 15 % then flash something about a transfer error, then reduce the file transferred back down to 8 or 9 %...then download that again up to around 12 % or so, then back down to 8 %....lather, rinse, repeat...indefinitely! I used this user's link in his post to get the correct ROM: Android 5.1 out now
Just an FYI there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear it went well. And thanks for the info on mega. It does that from time to time. Could be alot of people trying to get that file right now. Links updated.
If you go through the xposed install and all. It gets spooky fast....

can you explain about screen density? native 283? how do you know that? table has 320 dpi

Excellent guide and info. Spent all weekend formatting and dealing with "optimizing apps", this fixed it all, great tablet now

GOALAR said:
can you explain about screen density? native 283? how do you know that? table has 320 dpi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's an 8 inch screen. With a resolution of 1920x1200 I'm not sure the math, but it adds up to 283,or there are a few sites that you can go to and enter your the screen info and it will tell you what you density is. Density is how many pixels are in a square inch. Also GSM arena and a few other sites show this data if you Google "shield tablet specs".
Switching from 320 to 283 just makes the screen look sharper. It also can effect what games are listed as compatible in the play store. Example, dead space and dead trigger 2 will not install @ 283. But will run at it. I have dead space myself and it plays fine but I have to side load it or set my density back to 320 in build.prop then install it.
Think of it like running different resolutions on your pc monitor. The monitor will show them just fine, but only 1 is the exact spec from the factory, and look the best.

Thanks For This
Hi, @Pariahnoble. Just wanted to say that this is great, exactly the kind of effort that supports the XDA community.
I am sure that this will be a huge help to a lot of people.

koop1955 said:
Hi, @Pariahnoble. Just wanted to say that this is great, exactly the kind of effort that supports the XDA community.
I am sure that this will be a huge help to a lot of people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! =D Just hope it does in fact help some folks enjoy their shields a little more. I've been pretty unhappy so far, it was this or a Nexus 9, now I don't regret my decision anymore lol

Pictures of back of shield with letter stickers removed

Updated again

I'm surprised there aren't more comments on this thread. This looks great.
By the way, did I miss something or can this actually be done completely without the use of a computer?

radio five said:
I'm surprised there aren't more comments on this thread. This looks great.
By the way, did I miss something or can this actually be done completely without the use of a computer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope didn't miss a beat. This whole process can be done with no pc (I don't have a pc, my shield is my ONLY device.) so I've learned how to do it all locally (on board the shield itself).
This is only just now available, 5/13 kingroot was released that would root the tablet stock off the shelf. And flashify to put on the custom twrp. After that it's good times!
Ps, thanks for the heads up on the no pc thing, I forgot to mention that, OP updated...

That's great news for me since my computer recently took a **** and I'm about to throw my old laptop out the window. (windows vista, won't take adb drivers, runs out of memory using chrome, etc...)
Sent from my SHIELD Tablet using XDA Free mobile app

radio five said:
That's great news for me since my computer recently took a **** and I'm about to throw my old laptop out the window. (windows vista, won't take adb drivers, runs out of memory using chrome, etc...)
Sent from my SHIELD Tablet using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ouch! I feel your pain. I recently had to try to flash using add (adb but "add" was a great typo) on Windows xp.... Oh yeah... THAT went well.... Then 2 days later kingroot came out.
Just make sure (and I'll add this to the op as well) to keep a copy of the full ota on the ROOT of your external SD card, that way if your shield take a flaming deuce in your hands, you can STILL use nvidia backup recovery. If you have ever seen the "bug droid" (ole Andy on his back and the flaming red ! Over it) hold the "volume up" button and hit power and the nvidia recovery comes up. Let's you flash a STOCK FULL OTA and bam, back in business, just kingroot, flashify, twrp, keep calm, and carry on!

Man, I'm glad you said something! I'm gathering all the files on my external sd card in a folder (downloads/Shield Optimization) and I was getting ready to take the plunge. I'll move everything to the sd card's root before I get started.
I'm also considering backing all of my sd card to a work computer temporarily so I can reformat it. My junk heap of a laptop can't read it but I suspect my shield may have formatted it to a weird..... format.
I just want to have the card ready in the event I want to transfer large files and not wait as long.
Speaking of which, would I be able to format my sd card via my PC with it still in the Shield, connected by a usb cable?
Sorry if I'm getting slightly off topic.
Sent from my SHIELD Tablet using XDA Free mobile app

@radio five
Firstly the only file you really need in the root folder is the ota zip. That's only because I'm pretty sure that's where the stock recovery will look for it, IF everything goes to hell.
Yes about formatting your card or storing files elsewhere during all this. The closer to a fresh card and internal memory the better.
Not sure what if any besides ntfs that the shield would format it to. But ntfs is recommended. And it's so far the only (I think) supported format for cards over 32gb. Also. After you format it to ntfs, quick format is OK, full is better but much slower on Windows, make sure to name it. Any is OK. "Sdcard" works.
In Windows Explorer, click on the volume (Sdcard you just formatted) to select it. Wait a sec. Then click it again. And name it when it highlights.
It fixes SOMETHING, Noone really knows what, but makes the shield recognize SD cards over 32gb
I'm sure there IS a way to format via adb, but I have no idea how...
What topic? >.< lol all questions are encouraged.

Changing Launcher?

I bought one of these for my mom hoping it wouldn't be so well locked down. Has anyone managed to change their launcher from the default Amazon(Ad-laden) launcher? Sideloaded Nova but no dice there.

While Nova runs fine you can't replace the amazon launcher. I believe it was possible on pre 5.1.1 fire OS. Until we get root we'll just have make do.

If you're interested in changing the default firelauncher without rooting your device, please take a quick peak at my thread discussing the possibilties.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8...zon-fire-hd-8-10-remove-firelauncher-t3286646
If you are currently rooted, which as of today is not possible on HD 8 & HD 10, you simply delete the com.amazon.firelauncher.apk in /system/priv-apps/com.amazon.firelauncher/, you will need to boot into fastboot and remount the system as rw if I am correct.
I hope this helps . Again, please check my thread for non-root information, it is currently unfinished.

Here is an updated tutorial on how to change the default launcher without rooting!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/tut-remove-default-launcher-amazon-fire-t3288192
Edit: Found a second method that is even better!

nyln said:
Here is an updated tutorial on how to change the default launcher without rooting!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/tut-remove-default-launcher-amazon-fire-t3288192
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
while you're method may work, it's far from optimal.
it's not possible to just rename another launcher and replace the FireOs launcher? i suppose that would be too easy.
if it were my tablet, i'd be more inclined to play around with it. unfortunately, my mom is content enough with it how it is, though i can see it being a beast and would **** around more if it were mine.
hopefully root comes soon. unfortunately, i can't help work towards it.
when all of that is said and done, i'll build a rom and kernel for it, np.

technope said:
while you're method may work, it's far from optimal.
it's not possible to just rename another launcher and replace the FireOs launcher? i suppose that would be too easy.
if it were my tablet, i'd be more inclined to play around with it. unfortunately, my mom is content enough with it how it is, though i can see it being a beast and would **** around more if it were mine.
hopefully root comes soon. unfortunately, i can't help work towards it.
when all of that is said and done, i'll build a rom and kernel for it, np.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found a new method that actually works very very well, just run this in adb shell:
Code:
#!/bin/bash
am monitor | while read -r line; do
if [[ $line == *"firelauncher"* ]]
then
[B]am start com.newlauncher.launcher[/B]
fi
done

nyln said:
I found a new method that actually works very very well, just run this in adb shell:
Code:
#!/bin/bash
am monitor | while read -r line; do
if [[ $line == *"firelauncher"* ]]
then
[B]am start com.newlauncher.launcher[/B]
fi
done
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Little bash script like that. I'll give it a try when I have time. Sleek enough, and if effective it's great.

technope said:
Little bash script like that. I'll give it a try when I have time. Sleek enough, and if effective it's great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only downside to the script is when you press the home button, there is a delay of 500ms or so, you see the firelauncher for that time.
It is not nohup or anything so it will stop working when you close adb shell (easy to do yourself, but I am preoccupied at the moment).

Why not root?
So I was actually able to ROOT my kindle fire hd 8 with the kingroot method.
After installing the apk.
Loaded it up let it try to find a root solution and it will not but you can try rooting with the other method and it WORKED for me. Never been so happy!
So after that I loaded adb shell in command prompt and typed "su" to see if I had root and it WORKED again, so I am even more happier!
Now after typing in "su" into command prompt I then typed in,
Code:
pm disable com.amazon.firelauncher
and it was successful..
NOTE: you must have another launcher installed before you do this! I had GOLauncher.
The End <3
P.S. I had installed the necessary files from rootjunky's "Amazon Fire Tablet Tool" or also known as installing google play store method..
Any questions hit me up, I have rebooted and still have root and things intact. Haven't had any problems as of yet. WOOT for ROOT

kanderson88 said:
So I was actually able to ROOT my kindle fire hd 8 with the kingroot method.
After installing the apk.
Loaded it up let it try to find a root solution and it will not but you can try rooting with the other method and it WORKED for me. Never been so happy!
So after that I loaded adb shell in command prompt and typed "su" to see if I had root and it WORKED again, so I am even more happier!
Now after typing in "su" into command prompt I then typed in,
Code:
pm disable com.amazon.firelauncher
and it was successful..
NOTE: you must have another launcher installed before you do this! I had GOLauncher.
The End <3
P.S. I had installed the necessary files from rootjunky's "Amazon Fire Tablet Tool" or also known as installing google play store method..
Any questions hit me up, I have rebooted and still have root and things intact. Haven't had any problems as of yet. WOOT for ROOT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets

So after doing some research I believe it won't be possible on the fire cause the system files are missing. From what I've seen I feel like the new 5 the gen tablets are all the same, can't confirm it yet but if so you should be able to follow the instruction given on the kindle 7 5th gen able about booting up into twrp or cm and installing a new Rom. I'm not sure if I want to do this though. Adw launcher feels empty without widgets though
---------- Post added at 10:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:37 AM ----------
kanderson88 said:
So after doing some research I believe it won't be possible on the fire cause the system files are missing. From what I've seen I feel like the new 5 the gen tablets are all the same, can't confirm it yet but if so you should be able to follow the instruction given on the kindle 7 5th gen able about booting up into twrp or cm and installing a new Rom. I'm not sure if I want to do this though. Adw launcher feels empty without widgets though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But do not follow my advice unless you know what your doing. Always back up everything.

kanderson88 said:
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm that with the latest KingRoot apk on my HD8 (5th Generation) the rooting worked. As a launcher I had before Nova and Google Now via Play Store installed. I prefer the Google Now Launcher. The Home button, the Wallpaper and the Widgets are working. Thanks for the hot rooting tip.

schr01 said:
I can confirm that with the latest KingRoot apk on my HD8 (5th Generation) the rooting worked. As a launcher I had before Nova and Google Now via Play Store installed. I prefer the Google Now Launcher. The Home button, the Wallpaper and the Widgets are working. Thanks for the hot rooting tip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your google play store actually work? I can get it to load but once the front page is loaded, I can't search or get anything else to load on google play. It's just a continuous load. Could you let me know what framework you have. Also I cant get widgets to work on mine. Have Adw and cant get google now to work. If you can I think you should make a posts on the HD 8 and 10 thread letting us know what you did to get where you are now. Anyways I'm going to message you in a lil bit.

So I got google launcher installed and moved it to system app and now widgets work. Only problem I'm facing now is getting google play to stay working. Sometimes log me out or just stops loading traffic to the app. Any ideas? I've uninstalled it and reinstalled it but still no.

kanderson88 said:
So I got google launcher installed and moved it to system app and now widgets work. Only problem I'm facing now is getting google play to stay working. Sometimes log me out or just stops loading traffic to the app. Any ideas? I've uninstalled it and reinstalled it but still no.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1

schr01 said:
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'm gonna have to try this once I get off work. Thank you again

kanderson88 said:
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please try nova.

schr01 said:
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for supplying the APKs. This should help me as right now infos are jumbled all across this forum and need to be cleaned up a bit.
I'd love to do a nice/clean .bin people can flash after the dust has settled. Hopefully without kingroot. Wish I knew the kingroot devs.

Also, everyone needs to slow down. We have root in a way, but we need to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don't let this forum become a mess.
Right now, it is a huge mess.. The original root thread is smart to post on and maybe the tips and tricks thread. Stop spreading things out too much. We need it all in one place, really

technope said:
Also, everyone needs to slow down. We have root in a way, but we need to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don't let this forum become a mess.
Right now, it is a huge mess.. The original root thread is smart to post on and maybe the tips and tricks thread. Stop spreading things out too much. We need it all in one place, really
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah sorry I'm trying my best to clean up my thread a little and easy to read as much as possible. Also I figured out how to fix google play if it isn't working. Look at tips,Tricks, and the Root thread if anyone is wondering.

{MOD}{ROM}Phoenix2tv- Android tv (DOWNLOAD LINK FIXED)

Hello, PhoenixOS community....
i have created a (Android TV ROM) for phoenixOS v3.0.5.469_x86_x64
its fairly stable but... of course
it has small bugs to be worked out listed below
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------l
Ive spent about 3 days off an on get this working desent l
an this is what i have so far l
Im Still Going To Be Working On This l
Here an there l
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Videohttps://youtu.be/rP6FurMEOd0
-----------------------------PHOENIX2TV-----------------------------------
-------INSTALL--------
Use Rufus to create a bootable usb
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Use gparted to create partition on hard drive
#1]ext4 (you choose your size i have mine set to 50gb)
#2]fat32 (1gb or 1024mb) for grub menu
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------MODS----------
*debloaded the best i can
*Rooted with SuperSu ( you have to Update su binary on first boot)
*Xposed framework
*Arise sound system
*OTA updates disabled
*android tv BOOT ANIMATION
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
------ADDED APPS------
*TV MENU (MOST OPTIONS WORK BUT SOMTIMES CRASHES)
*VOLUME
*RECOMMENDATIONS SERVICE (WORKING)
*LEANBACK LAUNCHER (DEFAULT HOME)
*GOOGLE PLAY STORE (ANDROID TV)
*WORKING LEANBACK GOOGLE ASSISTANT (mic working)
*GOOGLE PLAY MOVIES & TV (ANDROID TV)
*PLAY MUSIC (ANDROID TV)
*GOOGLE PLAY GAMES (ANDROID TV)
*APTOIDETV
*CETUSPLAY REMOTE SERVICE
*ANEXPLORER
*SIDELOAD LAUNCHER
*HALAUNCHER (FOR 2ND HOME OPTION)
*TVBOOT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------Tips for great experience-------------
*sign into google from settings (ON 1ST BOOT)
*reboot system after 1st reboot
*right click taskbar to auto hide it
*get button mapper pro an map you keyboard (you have to use this app if you want to get the tv resents working)
*go into display settings to set your display to (1920x1080i 60hz)
*turn off 24hr clock in settings
--------------------BUGS-----------------------
*1.Package installer crashes sometimes - Not really a issue
for ex....... crashes when opening terrariumtv
then terrariumTV also crashes
*FIX
go into settings
then go into apps
then select terrariutv turn on the (storage permissions)
now open terrariumtv
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
*2.system freezes an forces a hotreboot to itself
ex..... hiting back button to manytimes
*FIX
(Don't hit the back button more than 2 times at once)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*3.Settings app crashes if you toogle native settings
*FIX
(don't toogle native settings lol)
Idk yet also
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Download linkhttps://mega.nz/#!J4wh3S5Z!JZJSS42HBaw5SIuOKAsqfoOB6vRTI__DYIHEbvO_RPI

Good work mate ! Keep it up !

First off: Great $hit Man. Been looking for a better looking, remote friendly version of Android TV. Question: Does Google assistant work? Definitely not a deal breaker but trying to get a all in one setup going on a mini PC. Second: We should just leave update off to prevent OTA from messing up your mod? Thanks and keep going. Youre on to something people will want.

Botnix43 said:
First off: Great $hit Man. Been looking for a better looking, remote friendly version of Android TV. Question: Does Google assistant work? Definitely not a deal breaker but trying to get a all in one setup going on a mini PC. Second: We should just leave update off to prevent OTA from messing up your mod? Thanks and keep going. Youre on to something people will want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you still using this mod?

Awesome, love this version of PHOS. I would like to see, and help if need be, further development on this one. So just want to put this out there.. after installing an OTA update popped up and I figure there was no harm in trying it. The update installed "LaunchWork" app that was trying to show some ads but could not or would not connect to it's server so I simply used the included system app uninstaller to remove it and now I don't have to bother exiting out of an empty window every time I open an app.

jdeandeck said:
Awesome, love this version of PHOS. I would like to see, and help if need be, further development on this one. So just want to put this out there.. after installing an OTA update popped up and I figure there was no harm in trying it. The update installed "LaunchWork" app that was trying to show some ads but could not or would not connect to it's server so I simply used the included system app uninstaller to remove it and now I don't have to bother exiting out of an empty window every time I open an app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I was skilled enough to make this rom more stable.
I only know how to convert regular Android into Android TV with some simple modifications!
Maybe someone can take a look at it to see if we can make it more stable. An more like a Android tv

Yeah I don't really know much about how to go about stabilizing ROMS, and have a little experience unsuccessfully porting TWRP to a couple phones. Been wondering how i would go about getting the native settings working, or possibly replacing the settings apk with native settings apk, but idk if it works like that or if there is more to getting things working.
---------- Post added at 12:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:05 AM ----------
One thing I can say is that after doing the OTA from Phoenix when I first installed, I have not had the package installer crash. I do get some modded apps crashing every now and again, but I just assume that is from the modifications. Just got a little more background I installed PHTV onto a 32 GB flash drive with 350mb EFI partition, the rest I formatted to NTFS and gave it a 20 GB data partition so I could have a little room on the drive to store some stuff from from Windows or otg from my phone if need be.

jdeandeck said:
Yeah I don't really know much about how to go about stabilizing ROMS, and have a little experience unsuccessfully porting TWRP to a couple phones. Been wondering how i would go about getting the native settings working, or possibly replacing the settings apk with native settings apk, but idk if it works like that or if there is more to getting things working.
---------- Post added at 12:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:05 AM ----------
One thing I can say is that after doing the OTA from Phoenix when I first installed, I have not had the package installer crash. I do get some modded apps crashing every now and again, but I just assume that is from the modifications. Just got a little more background I installed PHTV onto a 32 GB flash drive with 350mb EFI partition, the rest I formatted to NTFS and gave it a 20 GB data partition so I could have a little room on the drive to store some stuff from from Windows or otg from my phone if need be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you still use the moded room?

brandonlee96 said:
Do you still use the moded room?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes still on Phoenix TV. Using it daily running it from USB. In the about section of the settings it says I am on Phoenix OS version 3.0.6.64.

Netflix from playstore working? Great job btw. Thanks.

You guys are welcome! An I'm sorry you guys for it being 100% stable! I have the Nvidia shield tv now so I have no need for the mod as of right now! I hope you guys understand an enjoy!

Botnix43 said:
First off: Great $hit Man. Been looking for a better looking, remote friendly version of Android TV. Question: Does Google assistant work? Definitely not a deal breaker but trying to get a all in one setup going on a mini PC. Second: We should just leave update off to prevent OTA from messing up your mod? Thanks and keep going. Youre on to something people will want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Google assistant work on my laptop so I would say yes! Hopefully it works for you?

jdeandeck said:
Yeah I don't really know much about how to go about stabilizing ROMS, and have a little experience unsuccessfully porting TWRP to a couple phones. Been wondering how i would go about getting the native settings working, or possibly replacing the settings apk with native settings apk, but idk if it works like that or if there is more to getting things working.
---------- Post added at 12:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:05 AM ----------
One thing I can say is that after doing the OTA from Phoenix when I first installed, I have not had the package installer crash. I do get some modded apps crashing every now and again, but I just assume that is from the modifications. Just got a little more background I installed PHTV onto a 32 GB flash drive with 350mb EFI partition, the rest I formatted to NTFS and gave it a 20 GB data partition so I could have a little room on the drive to store some stuff from from Windows or otg from my phone if need be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I tried my very best to get the native settings to work but unfortunately it kept crashing every time I enabled native! I not really that skilled but I am kinda familiar with turning regular Android into Android TV.

How toinstall pubg mobile marching in phoenix os ... whenever I tried to install it said problem persing the package. the apk paackage size is 1.83gb. please help me

SpoilerX said:
How toinstall pubg mobile marching in phoenix os ... whenever I tried to install it said problem persing the package. the apk paackage size is 1.83gb. please help me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Usually that is an erorr with incomplete download or that the app is incompatible with the current SDK version of Android. Also if I'm thinking correctly shouldn't the app and app data be two files, apk and obb. Try changing file extension to zip and open with your favorite file manager app

Awesome
I'am looking android tv rom for my notebook

brandonlee96 said:
Hello, PhoenixOS community....
i have created a (Android TV ROM) for phoenixOS v3.0.5.469_x86_x64
its fairly stable but... of course
it has small bugs to be worked out listed below
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------l
Ive spent about 3 days off an on get this working desent l
an this is what i have so far l
Im Still Going To Be Working On This l
Here an there l
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Videohttps://youtu.be/rP6FurMEOd0
-----------------------------PHOENIX2TV-----------------------------------
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The video URL has been banned.
This video has been removed for violating YouTube's Terms of Service
Can you post it to dtube or *****ute?

Up. I would like to test this mod. Thank you for your work.

Android TV remote control apps not working, does anyone know any that works?

Any way to get this for 32 bits devices?

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 following​Boot 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 use​ADBLink-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.