Database Users

Comprehensive guide to rooting and configuring the Nook Touch. For new bees.

After many hours of reading and searching these forums for answers to various questions I had when rooting my new nook, I decided to write out all the answers the average user (like me) will wish he had known before he started. So here you go, I present all you need to know about rooting and configuring your nook from the box to the promised land of awesomeness.
This is for the Nook Simple Touch (also called NST, N2E) non-glowlight version. After you root your nook, the software advice should be the same, but if you have a glowlight version, see the post by ladykayaker below. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=36035695&postcount=2
A. Rooting
1) Backing up
--- noogie.img
--- nookmanager
--- reclaiming and reformatting your micro sd after using winimage.
2) Firmware version
--- does version matter?
--- updates
3) Touchnooter
B. First Configuration
--- what to expect
--- getting google play and web browsing to work.
--- installing apps from micro sd
C. Make it awesome
--- apps you'll need to patch missing nook functions
--- Multi-touch, fast ink modes, and kernal mods
--- Battery
D. Phone specific apps
--- whatsapp, and getting an IMEI on your nook
--- Phone contacts
E. List of current unsolved problems
--- Media scanner
--- scrolling
--- keyboards
--- video support in certain apps
--- audio
A. Rooting
Part 1. Backing up.
Q: Can I get my device back to stock?
A: Yes, if you take backups before you start.
Step 1. Take your nook out of the box
Step 2. Register for a barnes and noble account
Step 3. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1142983
--- Noogie.img full partition backups ---
In English, this means you have to download noogie.img, and download winimage and use it to (CAREFULLY) write the image to a micro sd card. Boot your nook with the micro sd card. Then use winimage again to copy the physical disk (1.8gb) to a file. Now you can always go back to your stock nook, apparently.
--- Easy Backups and Restoring with Nook Manager ---
You can never be too safe. I suggest you backup with 2 methods.
Search "nookmanager for 1.21 and beyond".
Download nookmanager and write it to a micro sd card just like you did for noogie. Nook manager has a brilliant backup and restore feature and works on all versions, so boot into it and follow the menu to take a backup, it creates a second backup partition on your micro sd. So when you're done, plug in your nook and copy the backup file off and the md5 hash. Follow the previous step to reclaim your micro sd.
--- Reclaiming Your Micro SD ---
To reclaim your micro sd, on windows click start menu, search partition, and open the partition manager. Find your micro sd card which now has a small partition on it, select the partition, and delete it. Right click >> create simple partition >> fat32
Backup(s) finished.
2. Firmware
--- Firmware Version ---
Q: Does firmware version matter?
A: Yes it does, make sure you search for 1.1 update and update your version to 1.1 before rooting with touchnooter. Don't bother with 1.21 yet because all the cool things you've seen and want are done with 1.1 and 1.21 root needs more time to mature and become more user friendly (noob friendly).
To check your firmware version go into settings > device info.
--- updates ---
Q: How do I update to 1.1?
First check your firmware version, if it's 1.0.1, update to 1.1 by downloading the 1.1 firmware (it's a zip file) and moving it into the nook drive on your computer. It will update automatically. Don't wait too long to backup or move to 1.1 because it might automatically update to 1.21. You should update to 1.1 and root immediately. If your device came with 1.2, try this to flash and install 1.1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475613
--- touchnooter ----
Once you're on 1.1, download touchnooter and like noogie and nookmanager, make an image on your microsd with winimage and boot the device. the screen will turn black, and then you can take the card out and reboot. However, I found that after running the root once, many /most of the applications didn't function, I had to boot three times with touchnooter for most apps to work. It doesn't hurt so just do it if you have any problems.
B. First Configurations
--- What To Expect ---
Now that you're rooted and running in android, you're probably thinking, "well this sucks, the web browsers don't work and neither do the app stores...."
Calm yourself, it will get better.
--- Getting GAPPS and web browsing ---
Add a google account in gmail, sync it, sign into the same google account with youtube (nobody knows why). Then you will have to "wait a day" for it to work...
Q: Wait a day? FUUUUUU
A: Just joking, you can add another google mail account and sync that, your google play will now work without the wait, but it can be a bit tricky to hit the agree to tos button.
Reclaim your micro sd, you'll need it to install apps if your Opera Mini isn't working.
Search google for opera mobile, download the apk onto your micro sd, it's on opera's website, you should also download opera mini so you can re-install the one that comes loaded if it doesn't work. Rooting several times fixed my opera mini, but if yours is broken re-installing should fix it.
--- installing apps from micro sd ---
Q: How to install apps from micro sd?
A: Find the super manager, open it up, click the button to grant super user privileges, on the second or third tab from the left there is a file manager. Go into it, click the apk, click install.
C. MAKE IT AWESOME
Now that you have opera mini/mobile, can browse the web and google play works, what next?
--- apps you'll need to patch NST broken functions ---
1. Google play search function is broken, before you can start installing apps quickly, use opera mini to search for "search market" , you'll find the google play link, click it, install it.
2. default android home screen looks bad and custom wallpaper support is broken.
Now you probably want a decent looking home screen because face it, adk looks like crap, and you probably noticed you can't set the wallpaper because the media scanner doesn't detect any media = empty gallery = can't select a wallpaper.
use search market to find legacy launcher, install it
search for "wallpaper changer" and "es file explorer", install them. You can now set the wallpaper to any file on your sd card, and your android launcher looks great. Try adusting the font size in settings and adding widgets later.
3. Gallery doesn't work because media scanner is broken.
Some apps require the gallery to work to select images.
Your solution is to download the app "Quickpic" - it will allow you to choose pictures in apps that need a gallery.
4. The default keyboard is not very good, and the nook disables all spelling suggestion bars from keyboards. This makes t9 and chinese input impossible, and can make typing a pain in any language. The solution is to download a back-port keyboard.
Jellybean keyboard is a good back-port, search and install it, it's fully functional with lots of languages. No t9 though
1/2 OF GUIDE. CONTINUED IN MY NEXT POST

notes for Nook Simple Touch with Glowlight
If you have the US Nook with glowlight, firmware version 1.1.5, then follow these instructions :
backup
http://blog.the-ebook-reader.com/20...-and-restore-nook-glow-and-nook-simple-touch/
root
http://blog.the-ebook-reader.com/20...using-glownooter-includes-googles-app-market/

2/2 OF GUIDE.
--- Kernel, fast ink modes, and multitouch---
If you want multi touch and fast ink, search for oc kernel 1.66 with fastmode. it includes all you need for multitouch and overclocks the cpu. slightly.
FYI: You will need something called "Clockwork mod" or CWM to install the kernel. Google it, you'll need to image it to your micro sd just like you did for noogie.img. After you're done, copy the oc kernel zip file into the root directory, boot up your nook with the CWM sd inserted and follow the instructions to install package from zip.
Fast ink options:
Fast mode vs no refresh
fast mode is highly dithered, and as a result small text is unreadable. however it affects the system wide and it doesn't have any compatibility issues. No refresh is high contrast, low dithering means low dynamic range but text is very readable and sharp. The disadvantage is it seemed very buggy and it's application specific, ie- you have to enable it in each application and it gets a bit buggy or laggy when it switches on and off. It has a lot more configuration potential than fast mode though. I prefer fast mode because it's simple, and very fast. It just works.
--- Battery ---
You'll notice your battery suck as soon as you root. This isn't widely discussed, but it turns out it's do to certain phone system resources being active. This can eat up 10 times more battery than your screen, and a hundred times more than anything else, even using fast mode liberally. Go into file manager and rename /system/app/phone.apk and telephonyprovider.apk. Reboot immediately.
I suggest you also download the app "deep sleep" as well. Battery manager plus is also a good application to keep track of applications individual battery useage.
D. Phone Specific APPS
Q: I want whatsapp
You need to install a static IMEI, google imei nook touch xda and you'll find the thread. Download the exe, install it.
On your phone use search market to install "wifi adb" in wifi adb select on, note the ip address.
Run the imei app you got from xda dev and it will give you a static imei.
install the latest version of whatsapp. You'll notice you can't message anyone or add contacts because nook contacts doesn't work.
download go contacts ex and it will be ok.
E. Current major issues to consider and how to fix them:
--- Scrolling: ---
problem: Scrolling does not work properly, if you use chat programs, or google voice etc. you'll find yourself scrolling through the conversation manually every time. Some apps have difficulty scrolling at all.
Solution: No known fix at this time
--- Media scanner (media storage) ---
Problem: Media scanner fails to add media files from sd card into the media database. This means the default gallery and music applications won't detect any media.
Solution: No known direct solution, although you can edit the db manually using sql.
A better solution is to download an application which includes it's own embedded media search function. An example being quickpic as a gallery replacement.
--- Keyboards ---
problem: Keyboards are missing the text suggestion bar, this means that t9 input and language input like chinese are difficult/impossible.
Solution: Download a back-ported keyboard. Jellybean keyboard is by far the best, have extensive mutli-language support, and the text suggestion bars displays properly. The only downside is it does not have a t9 layout. Baidu, sougou, or any chinese t9 keyboard software will not work on the nook until the proper dependencies/support is patched somehow.
---video support ---
Q: Can I play video?
You can, but you'll be limited to about 10-15 fps with no audio and it will be 1 bit dithered. Download rockplayer to play various video formats. There appears to be a problem with hardware video decoding and only software video players work at the moment. If I discover a fix for broader video support I'll update this.
--- audio ---
Q: Can I play audio?
A: There are some people working on audio implementation through usb host and a cheap 2 or 3 dollar dongle. However, it seems like it's very 'alpha' at the moment, until someone writes an app to automatically configure audio through usb hosts, you can probably forget about it unfortunately.
I'll update this later.

Hi nice so far
You say " make sure you search for 1.1 update and update your version to 1.1 before rooting with touchnooter. Don't bother with 1.21 yet because all the cool things you've seen and want are done with 1.1"
But what if you bought your device lately and it already came with FW 1.2.0 then what do you do?

180 people read this thread and only 6 bothered to click on thanks?? Come on guys!

bentwand said:
But what if you bought your device lately and it already came with FW 1.2.0 then what do you do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

apap said:
+1
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used this
forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475613

fosselman said:
I used this
forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475613
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the input, did your device come loaded with 1.2 or was it the result of an automatic update? I updated my guide with a link to touch-formatter.

jun127 said:
Thanks for the input, did your device come loaded with 1.2 or was it the result of an automatic update? I updated my guide with a link to touch-formatter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine was on 1.0.x and I manually updated to 1.2.0 and then found out about rooting and wanted gapps so I downgraded to 1.1.0.

bentwand said:
But what if you bought your device lately and it already came with FW 1.2.0 then what do you do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
fosselman said:
I used this
forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475613
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bricked my new 1.2.0 device and the thread in the link above saved my butt. That said, it convinced my NSTG that it was a standard Simple Touch (no more glowlight function). I've been looking around for an update to NSTG 1.5 firmware to start over with, hoping the light features will come back. If any of you old salts can let me know if that's even possible I'd appreciate it.
If you're still at 1.2, this thread looks promising: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1675706&highlight=nstg&page=12

Looking at the ;ast pages of the NookManager rooting process it appears that the Amazon App store is US based and doesn't work for UK users (for example). Is there any simple method to fix that so it works outside of the US?
(Post i'm referring to - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=36210882&postcount=110)

Thanks for clearing up the fastMode/noRefresh situation!

I have rooted NST by NookManager. The first step after that was to register device in DeviceRegistrator.apk. Next I installed ale stuff (gapps, amazon ect.) If I decide to flash kernel, it will be necessary to do it again?

Thanks, very in-dept
Renaming Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk to avoid battery drain didn't work for me. I had to delete both and reboot. Now I can use my nook without losing too much battery
Used Total Commander app as my file manager to access /system/app/
Do you have a recommendation for a launcher other than ReLaunch?

dalovar said:
Renaming Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk to avoid battery drain didn't work. I had to delete both and reboot. Now I can use my nook without losing too much battery
Used Total Commander app as my file manager to access /system/app/
Do you have a recommendation for a launcher other than ReLaunch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use lightning launcher it is lite weight and works well for me.

dalovar said:
Renaming Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk to avoid battery drain didn't work for me. I had to delete both and reboot. Now I can use my nook without losing too much battery
Used Total Commander app as my file manager to access /system/app/
Do you have a recommendation for a launcher other than ReLaunch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've used ADW Launcher EX for years, and still loving it. Best customizability on any Nook Touch-compatible launcher, at least in my opinion.

Guys after successfully rooting my device and using it for some time it occurred to me that I would spend the $5 gift that comes with every NST. After buying books on B&N and turning on my nook I realized that nook's original software can't connect to the internet even when connected to my home's wifi connection.
I get the error: "Sorry, a problem has occurred. Please try again" in both the B&N library or B&N's shop.
Has anyone been able to download/sync books from B&N AFTER rooting your device?
Is this just a problem that I'm experiencing?
Thank you

dalovar said:
Guys after successfully rooting my device and using it for some time it occurred to me that I would spend the $5 gift that comes with every NST. After buying books on B&N and turning on my nook I realized that nook's original software can't connect to the internet even when connected to my home's wifi connection.
I get the error: "Sorry, a problem has occurred. Please try again" in both the B&N library or B&N's shop.
Has anyone been able to download/sync books from B&N AFTER rooting your device?
Is this just a problem that I'm experiencing?
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Can't connect to the internet" at all or just to the B&N sites? If you've disabled/deleted some of the B&N apps you could have problems of this sort. There are all kinds of unlikely dependencies in the B&N system that can break functionality if something is missing.
I'm working with a rooted and modified NST running FW 1.21 and the only limitation I've seen so far is not being able to connect in-store (but I intentionally altered the QuickNav buttons to eliminate "Shop"). I haven't purchased books from B&N but have selected "Free Friday" offerings from the website and they come right down to my NST when it's online, no problem.
I assume you had no problem registering your device, otherwise I would suggest that maybe that error was due to B&N blacklisting the serial number. That's happened before with used/refurbished devices. Then a phone call is in order to B&N to get them to reverse that.

nmyshkin said:
"Can't connect to the internet" at all or just to the B&N sites? If you've disabled/deleted some of the B&N apps you could have problems of this sort. There are all kinds of unlikely dependencies in the B&N system that can break functionality if something is missing.
I'm working with a rooted and modified NST running FW 1.21 and the only limitation I've seen so far is not being able to connect in-store (but I intentionally altered the QuickNav buttons to eliminate "Shop"). I haven't purchased books from B&N but have selected "Free Friday" offerings from the website and they come right down to my NST when it's online, no problem.
I assume you had no problem registering your device, otherwise I would suggest that maybe that error was due to B&N blacklisting the serial number. That's happened before with used/refurbished devices. Then a phone call is in order to B&N to get them to reverse that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can't connect to B&N only. The rest of the internet is accessible. I can install apps from Google play from my computer to my device without problem too. The only system apps that i remember deleting are android apps (Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk).
I don't think my serial number is black listed, because I was able to register my nook without problem. But is there any tool online where I could check my serial # statues that would be nice. I'm thinking of resetting to factory settings and rooting again if necessary. thanks for your help

dalovar said:
Can't connect to B&N only. The rest of the internet is accessible. I can install apps from Google play from my computer to my device without problem too. The only system apps that i remember deleting are android apps (Phone.apk and TelephonyProvider.apk).
I don't think my serial number is black listed, because I was able to register my nook without problem. But is there any tool online where I could check my serial # statues that would be nice. I'm thinking of resetting to factory settings and rooting again if necessary. thanks for your help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have both of those apps disabled (.apk --> .OLD) so that's probably not it. To my knowledge there is no on-line way to check on the status of your serial number and now that I come to think of it, if you had no problem registering when you set up your Nook before rooting, there should be no problem with the serial number.
Seems like there was a post similar to yours not too long ago and going back to factory and rooting again fixed the problem, as much of a nuisance as that is. The only other thing that comes to mind is: you're not in the UK are you? Someone else posted a similar problem and it turned out that he needed a UK firmware update to account for changing B&N-UK URLs before he could connect.
If you get the problem sorted, I can't emphasize enough the importance--and convenience--of making a backup with NM. Backup early and often, especially when trying out something new. It saves so much time and hassle in the long run. But first....you need to get it in working condition

[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.

[DISCUSSION]Best ROM Currently 11/2018

Best ROM Currently (11/2018)
Look at the date above. This is for current, relevant info. I'm looking for people's opinions on the best ROMs right now. Things to consider: speed & functionality, & whatever else you think is important. There aren't many options at all these days.
Please chime in & let's get this debate going!

I'll go first. I plan on updating this post as I try more. BTW the big reason I created this thread is to save people time. I spent at least a week now trying to get a functional & fast (or at least usable) ROM. ICS, which is the last ver of Android the manufacturer supports, is just too old to consider an option, in my opinion. So I tried https://forum.xda-developers.com/eee-pad-transformer/development/rom-t3318496 last & it's just way too slow for me. I did the bigwheelie partition increase, but honestly I don't think that's necessary for most of us (& it took me a long time!). & It takes forever to read each thread & hundreds of posts inside them to get up to date regarding these ROMs...just to find out something doesn't work. People often aren't nice about repeat questions & expect you to read through hundreds of pages...Im the opposite! I want to save you time & give you an up to date summary of ROM options & what to expect. I also found out the hard way that Google Play doesn't work on tduros Marshmallow ROM. Not his fault, darn Google. BUT there's MicroG as an alternative.
So there you have my first review:
KatKiss KatchMellow is waaaay to slow for me. Gapps doesn't work (tablet will keep restarting), but MicroG is a Google Play alternative.
I'll try out older ROMs next to see if speed gets any better & report back...
UPDATE:
I exhaustively tried getting microg to work on both KatKiss KatchMellow & Lollipop, but finally gave up. I'm sure its possible, but I ran out of time & patience.
I did however end up with a pretty fast solution: KatKiss Lollipop with Fdroid for my app store, and via that I installed DavCal (to tie into my Google Calendars) & Simple Calendar that displayed this. Many apps I wanted worked. Some not but I found an alternative. MX player plays videos fine & theres a million audio apps. Id recommend this.

Thank you for this. I also came here to find the best and fastest ROM but was overwhelmed by the number of comments to sift through. I have KatKiss 6.0.1 with playstore but no other Google apps. It's a bit slow. I'm gonna try KatKiss Lollipop with FDroid.

If anybody finds a solution to have google play store and no constant bootloping.... I've tried Katkiss 6.01, 5 and now went down to Omnirom kitkat 4.4 they all reboot constantly with google play store

I'm using Tims katsmallow. Gapps is an absolute no-go. I tried microg and ended up with the same bootloop/reboot after installing YouTube. I'm currently using no gapps and f-droid. It works fine, and functional. I want to use the chromecast, and that's not functional. I have seen some reference to CM or even lineage existing for the 101. I can't track it down though. I'm going to dig into that next, maybe even compile a build of lineage if it ever existed.

Reverse-anastomosis said:
I'm using Tims katsmallow. Gapps is an absolute no-go. I tried microg and ended up with the same bootloop/reboot after installing YouTube. I'm currently using no gapps and f-droid. It works fine, and functional. I want to use the chromecast, and that's not functional. I have seen some reference to CM or even lineage existing for the 101. I can't track it down though. I'm going to dig into that next, maybe even compile a build of lineage if it ever existed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We never had lineage. I think the newest CM was all the way back to 10.3. Our TWRP is now very outdated and that may cause problems flashing any newer ROMs

Yeah, I find references to lineage, but it appears that it never was built. I found CM 10.2, and am considering flashing it...but I'm fairly sure it won't be any better than Tims latest build. It would be nice if we could convince him to do one last build for us, but it seems fairly clear that he is done.

4xxxxL said:
If anybody finds a solution to have google play store and no constant bootloping.... I've tried Katkiss 6.01, 5 and now went down to Omnirom kitkat 4.4 they all reboot constantly with google play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reverse-anastomosis said:
I'm using Tims katsmallow. Gapps is an absolute no-go. I tried microg and ended up with the same bootloop/reboot after installing YouTube. I'm currently using no gapps and f-droid. It works fine, and functional...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, inspired by your comments I undusted my old TF101 and brought it back to life.
Objective: To have a working tablet for my children to play.
Restrictions: Tablet must be responsive and easy to use. Ads should be eradicated or reduced to a minimum. Tablet must not auto-reboot nor crash.
Initial state: Rooted tablet with TWRP recovery and Timduru's Marsmallow (random reboot problem) ROM installed. Linux computer with adb tools installed. A microSD (FAT32) holding every zip file I needed to flash.
Procedure:
Step 1. I've wiped everything (system, dalvik, cachè), all, using TWRP.
Step 2. Kind of followed Jan's guide at KCORE.ORG. (Read it here).
------ I did install Timduru's last Android 6 (a.k.a. Marshamallow) ROM (v34 from 2017). (Available here).
------ I skipped Super SU 2.52 from Timduru's (not sure whether it was a good idea or not).
------ I did not install any gapps.
------ Flashed F-droid (NanoDroid-fdorid and NanoDroid-patcher zips. I used the latest I found, 20.3.2018208). It was actually Nanolx's NanoDroid (Available here). It might be important to mention that when I selected Timduru's ROM to be flashed using TWRP, it asked me whether I wanted to add more zips to the flashing process; so I added both NanoDroid files to the queue (but skipped Super Su because I didn't want it to be flashed).
It took some time to finish the flashing process. Once it did I wiped dalvik and cachè, and rebooted.
----- Tablet booted just fine. When it finished I immediately rebooted to recovery (TWRP).
----- Then I flashed the last Super Su version I could find (v2.82-201705271822). The official site didn't provide a valid download so I used google to find an alternate source for it. (Remember to checksum everything before installing to avoid errors or malware -Trojans, virus, etc.-)
----- Once Super Su was flashed I rebooted (didn't wipe anything this time). It rebooted a couple of times until it was idle. I then ran Super Su app to check if it was Ok. It was. Then fixed some settings like language (Spanish, in my case), time zone (Mexico City) and location (changed to 'high accuracy' from 'device only'). And then connected to the Internet.
----- I ran F-droid and disabled all repositories but microG. Forced repositories update and installed microG Services Core and microG Service Framework Proxy.
---- Then I re-enabled the F-droid repository, forced it to update and upgraded microG (for me it was available).
---- Installed the recomended backends:
---- ++ UnifiedNlp (no GAPPS).
---- ++ MozillaNlpBackend (I didn't want the one from Apple as Jan did).
---- ++ NominatimNlpBackend
---- ++ WiFi Location Service (I don't know if this was necessary but I installed it anyway).
---- ++ Local GSM Location (I think this wasn't necessary because the tablet doesn't have GSM nor any other cellular SIM, but I installed it anyway to cover all my bases).
---- Patched the ROM to allow signature spoofing. (Check Jan's article about this). The second and third patch weren't applied because the files were already patched but I followed every step there to the end.
---- Followed Jan's article at sections "Configuring microG Services" and "Reinstall Google Play Store"
Step 3. I took the opportunity to install and run the AdBlocker script from this thread. In my case there was no pdf but the script file. I downloaded the raw text file and created a file named adblocker. Used the adb shell to ran it. I needed to remount the system partition in order to move the script to /system/bin. (A google search can help here if you don't know how to do it). Short version: it installed and ran Ok.
Step 4. On my first attempt (second, third, and maybe fourth actually), I installed apps from the Google Store. Eventually I ended with the reboot loop again. So in the end I opted for downloading the apk files of the apps I wanted to install (from apkpure.com) and did it manually (actually I used a for loop and adb in bash, but it counts as manually).
Step 5. That was it. Tested some apps and gave the tablet to my little monsters for further testing. The kids have been very happy playing around with the old tablet.
Additional considerations:
1. In my case I installed an app blocker so the children won't mess with anything important, microG settings and F-droid included.
2. I didn't install Google Play Games nor any games that depended on it. So the idea of me using the tablet to play was abandoned.
3. There are some apps that the old TF101's hardware cannot handle, so I uninstalled them as they crashed at start up.
Conclusion: TF101 is old but with this workaround it might live to fight more battles. Kids apps are simple, but they run (some Ok, some a bit slow). My kids learn and have fun with the old tablet, so mission accomplished!
Further considerations and remarks:
1. Updating apps is not a concern for me unless they stop running. If they run they do stay, otherwise I will check them manually and then decide.
2. No Google account was registered in the tablet. Store is there, but it is not used.
3. I installed some other apps aside from the children's ones, like the app locker, a file manager and things alike.
Good luck.
EDIT: Updated to Super Su SR5 (highly recommended) and added suhide-lite.
EDIT: Reboots restarted eventually. The solution was not installing microG nor Google apps, and therefore no store at all. I installed my kids' apps manually using adb. I also omitted Youtube kids. Tablet has been working fine for almost a week now.

Katkiss Kitkat with no gapps. Smooth like butter.
Workaround is to first flash with gapps, reboot and go through first time setup (skip wifi), then reboot into twrp, wipe system and flash without gapps, then reboot.
Reason is first time setup wont work without gapps for kk.
My detailed instructions in the timduru mm thread (kk was closed)

Yes. I can confirm (after multiple back and forth flashing) that Katkiss works perfectly w/o gapps.
Now w/o gapps how does one get the apps to install?
Edit : Looks like yalp store is the answer

aaranddeeman said:
Yes. I can confirm (after multiple back and forth flashing) that Katkiss works perfectly w/o gapps.
Now w/o gapps how does one get the apps to install?
Edit : Looks like yalp store is the answer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can look for your app's .apk file (e.g., apkpure.com), download it and use adb to install it.

I'm using katschmallow, no gapps. It has been very stable for a couple of months. I have microg installed, and a lot of apps from yalp are working OK. YouTube seems to be the culprit in making it bootloop. I've been using newpipe instead.

Works without gaps
Reverse-anastomosis said:
I'm using katschmallow, no gapps. It has been very stable for a couple of months. I have microg installed, and a lot of apps from yalp are working OK. YouTube seems to be the culprit in making it bootloop. I've been using newpipe instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried it as well and works well. I installed rom with the latest gapps (Jan 19th) and it has nice feature that you can disable "autoupdate apps" from upper right corner "three dots". Actually it was quite stable even with the gapps as long as you don't allow autoupdates.
Of course those apps, which are requiring Google play support won't work (mainly google made).
But many apps don't work with TF101 if you load the latest version so I found older versions from uptodown.com site as well other sites have old versions if you just search those.
Here are some apps and working versions. (some never might work as well but I did not have time to try furher)
Dropbox 18.2.2
Firefox 51.0.3
Uptodown 3.18
Chrome 49.0.2 (you need this if you want use your google account)
Mega 3.2.6.2.6
Spotify 8.4.0.534
OneDrive 4.12
Surprise was that the latest version of MS Outlook mail/calendar works

JaTun2 said:
I tried it as well and works well. I installed rom with the latest gapps (Jan 19th) and it has nice feature that you can disable "autoupdate apps" from upper right corner "three dots". Actually it was quite stable even with the gapps as long as you don't allow autoupdates.
Of course those apps, which are requiring Google play support won't work (mainly google made).
But many apps don't work with TF101 if you load the latest version so I found older versions from uptodown.com site as well other sites have old versions if you just search those.
Here are some apps and working versions. (some never might work as well but I did not have time to try furher)
Dropbox 18.2.2
Firefox 51.0.3
Uptodown 3.18
Chrome 49.0.2 (you need this if you want use your google account)
Mega 3.2.6.2.6
Spotify 8.4.0.534
OneDrive 4.12
Surprise was that the latest version of MS Outlook mail/calendar works
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you guys happen to know how I can root my TF101? I have two and I want to see what my best options are to get this thing to work with youtube. Please let me know if these two tablets are still worth the trouble.
I have spent countless hours chasing my tail as ASUS SYNC isn't even online anymore and all the exe files aren't made for windows 10. I have two, I am a college student and I would like a tablet to play Youtube when I am eating, as I don't have a tv in the dinning room/table.
Thanks in advance.

I have not been able to get YouTube working on mine. I have katschmallow without gapps, and use newpipe for YouTube. Anything Google service related seems to boot loop the tablet.

Reverse-anastomosis said:
I have not been able to get YouTube working on mine. I have katschmallow without gapps, and use newpipe for YouTube. Anything Google service related seems to boot loop the tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick reply. I guess I'll use it as a paper weight. On the plus side, I use my TF101s as a camera for the apt when I leave for school breaks, via Alfred. The video quality sucks, but at least it still has a little functionality.

It's not quite paperweight territory, but without support from Timduru it's becoming more and more crippled. I'm thankful for all of the years of service it has given.

baylin said:
Do you guys happen to know how I can root my TF101? I have two and I want to see what my best options are to get this thing to work with youtube. Please let me know if these two tablets are still worth the trouble.
I have spent countless hours chasing my tail as ASUS SYNC isn't even online anymore and all the exe files aren't made for windows 10. I have two, I am a college student and I would like a tablet to play Youtube when I am eating, as I don't have a tv in the dinning room/table.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This link goes to a thread with a linux and windows method that could work for you.
Best of lucks
---------- Post added at 08:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:53 PM ----------
Reverse-anastomosis said:
I have not been able to get YouTube working on mine. I have katschmallow without gapps, and use newpipe for YouTube. Anything Google service related seems to boot loop the tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should try OGYoutube instead, it depends on microG. You can use your google account and you will also get rid of the ads.
Look for the apks at apkmirror (ogyoutube and microG for OGYT)

Update for anyone still using this device. I discovered that . apk files can be installed from the terminal emulator. I was using katschmallow without gapps but kept getting random reboots. I went back to KK, and it is blazing fast. No reboots so far. Anyway, when you flash KK without gapps, there is no good way to install apps. I placed the apps that I wanted to install on the external SD, and installed in terminal as follows.
su
cd extSdCard
ls
pm install packagename.apk
Edit:Firefox 51.0 still works on this device on KK and is the minimum version for adbock plus.

Hello sirs
from your post I assume that best ROM il KAT KISS MM without Google Gapps.
I already have this configuration, but too many apks ( I use APTOIDE like market) do not works.
I would like to try a ROM based on original Firmware ( ANDROID REVOLUTION HD 3.6) . do you know if Google works with original FW ?
thanks

FLOSSbOxIN - A Customized Stock ROM

FLOSSbOxIN - Since 2016, I am a non-foogle person, nor do I have shucksfook, or anything of those stuffs. I was on Telegram and used to run the flossboxin channel, but left the application due to too much of spam and useless stuffs, and moreover, privacy issues tbvh. Now my XMPP channel is named FLOSSbOxIN too. I recently lost my M30, however, I have been for quiet sometime trying to get this M30 debloated to a level where knox also does not trip, nor where one will have to face the unnecessary Samsung bloatware and annoying analytics. Finally, I have made it to that level, after several permutation combinations.
Code:
[B]FLOSSbOxIN M305F Debloated FOSS/FLOSS Stock ROM[/B]
Released: [B]20200925[/B]
Patch Level: September 01, 2020
Build Date: [B]20200926[/B]
Base Version: Android 10
Build #: QP1A.190711.020.M305FDDS6CTI1
Kernel: [I]4.4.177-19407255[/I]
UI Core: [U]One UI 2.0[/U]
Links:
M30 Database -- AFH
DM-Verity -- AFH
FLOSSbOxIN - ROM -- Cloud - Direct Link
Odin V3.14.4 -- AFH
TWRP 3.4.0-0 -- AFH
Magisk Canary -- AFH
Installation Guide (Only For Bootloader UL On Q/10)
Download ROM from the links given.
Boot to recovery (stock/TWRP) (Guide Link)
Code:
adb reboot download
You will have to format data, as the ROM is decrypted, and coming from an encrypted ROM will give issues. For decrypting, do a "format data" in TWRP Recovery and then reboot to recovery and Wipe Dalvik/ART, Cache, System, Data, Hidden, Internal
Copy over ROM OS & DM-Verity file (do not rename DM-Verity file, keep as is)
Flash ROM - Would take around 10 minutes time for it to flash
Go to wipe, and wipe /hidden
Flash DM-Verity file
Reboot - should take around 5-6 minutes
Notes:
I have removed the setup wizard altogether
Post system starts, wait 5-10 minutes, as system tries to integrate system apps, which are newly introduced
Only necessary foogle stuff is kept, including Maps+Location, GSF & Play Services and all other foogle stuffs is removed
Somehow, even after removing the notorious HIYA (so called caller id and spam protection service), it somehow comes back with a valid internet/mobile data connection. If you wish to remove it again, boot to TWRP, mount /system and then delete the hiya service folder and clear dalvik/cache, and reboot
If any app has permission issue, then reinstall as "user" app (install again manually), and reboot sysui. Should work post that, as sometime, few apps are by default not allowed system changes by Samsung framework, and to add each app to framework is a bigggg task, and very irritating too
Still if any app (e.g., AnysoftKeyboard (see git issue), then uninstall as system, and reinstall as user
Ensure minimal apps are made /system, as they can be harmful
Features:
Fully debloated
Fully stock
Smoother, faster and has long battery run
Foogle & Samsung stupidity free
FLOSS apps included:
Aurora Droid, Aurora Store
F-Droid Classic - Classic variant by bubu
F-Droid Privilege (if you ever install F-Droid main app)
Bromite Webview is default
UngoogledChromium is the default browser
FreeOTP+ is your FLOSS 2FA companion
K9 Mail is the default FOSS email
KeePassDX for auto-login and enhanced privacy
Notification Log allows you to view several logs, once usage access is granted, and is fully FLOSS
QKSMS replaces Samsung Messaging app
Power App allows you to reboot to various modes - sysui, recovery, bootloader....
Vinyl is your music buddy
Dual-Mod for audio included
Screen capture (image & video) feature added
Data transmit (Up/Down) in status bar added (thanks Akhil)
Various camera tweaks (FOSS - OpenCamera is not included)
My hosts file is included, which enhances privacy by blocking various trackers and ads - URL
Hosts editor also included
GPS fast locking in closed areas - debug included for it
USB debug revoke option added to Dev mode
initd support added
Shutdown thread log enabled
BUGS
FLOSSbOxIN - You tell me..
Contributors/Credits:
Samsung for the superb bloat filled operating system, which is like a bliss in the irritation module
topjohnwu for Magisk
Akhil99 for TWRP
vdbhb59 for actually spending hours on getting this sorted, and when I do not even have the phone anymore (lol)...
XDA:DevDB Information
FLOSSbOxIN, ROM for the Samsung Galaxy M30
Contributors
vdbhb59, vdbhb59
ROM OS Version: Android 10
ROM Kernel: Linux 4.x
ROM Firmware Required: M305FDDS6CTI1, M305FDDUS6CT13
Based On: Stock
Version Information
Status: Stable
Current Stable Version: 2.0
Stable Release Date: 2020-09-25
Created 2020-09-25
Last Updated 2020-10-17

Snapshots
Snapshots

Reserved 2

Cool FLOSS Rom sar!

Thank you sir. Working on getting a Foogle Based FOSS ROM, so that few stupid apps which are GSF dependent can work out of box.

Google version added, and OFFICIAL tag added..

vdbhb59 said:
DM-Verity -- https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=8889791610682882483
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@faiz5200 here is the link..

Ajayagrawal said:
Hello
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay mate.
Few ways to do it.
1. By installing rooted AP with TWRP already included:->
Install September stock Firmware from my post here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-m30/development/rom-t4167497
Use that to flash the September FW. Use ODIN via windows, and use the file: AP ROOTED WITH TWRP RECOVERY. Flash only AP. CP is optional. Follow the steps there. Ensure to flash DMVERITY.
This is one way...
Another way:
2. Flash stock ROM. Connect to wifi/mobile data and setup. Change the time to say 7 days prior to today. Wait 30 minutes and boot to download mode via the following method:: switch off. Press Vol+/- together and connect to laptop/pc via usb. Ensure usb debugging is ON and then perform. Now you are in download mode. Flash TWRP.tar file from AP. All checkboxes should be unticked. Once flashed successfully, press vol- and power button for 7-8 seconds and let go off vol- upon haptic feedback and press vol+ to enter to twrp recovery. You can let go of the buttons once twrp shows up.
Now format data and reboot to twrp again. Mount data and /system and if OS is installed boot to system, else flash a ROM of your choice.
3rd way:
3. Download FLOSSbOxIN (FLOSS/Google variant available). Extract to any desktop folder. Now open 7Zip and make a zip file with all the .img files. Choose .tar (available from 7Zip dropdown as well) and rename the tar file to say rom.tar.
Once done flash this one via AP. Ensure all checkboxes are unchecked. Reboot to TWRP following the steps in method 2 above. Format data, boot to twrp, flash dm-verity and boot to system. You can wipe cache/dalvik and /hidden if you want. Will take around 10 minutes to boot. Dont forget to boot to twrp first and flash dmverity, else you will end in bootloop.
Note: With Samsung, in case you forget to flash DMVerity, and by mistake clicked boot to system, do not worry. Switch off, or reboot to twrp and mount /system and flash. Wipe dalvik and cache, reboot. Done.

vdbhb59 said:
Okay mate.
Few ways to do it.
1. By installing rooted AP with TWRP already included:->
Install September stock Firmware from my post here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-m30/development/rom-t4167497
Use that to flash the September FW. Use ODIN via windows, and use the file: AP ROOTED WITH TWRP RECOVERY. Flash only AP. CP is optional. Follow the steps there. Ensure to flash DMVERITY.
This is one way...
Another way:
2. Flash stock ROM. Connect to wifi/mobile data and setup. Change the time to say 7 days prior to today. Wait 30 minutes and boot to download mode via the following method:: switch off. Press Vol+/- together and connect to laptop/pc via usb. Ensure usb debugging is ON and then perform. Now you are in download mode. Flash TWRP.tar file from AP. All checkboxes should be unticked. Once flashed successfully, press vol- and power button for 7-8 seconds and let go off vol- upon haptic feedback and press vol+ to enter to twrp recovery. You can let go of the buttons once twrp shows up.
Now format data and reboot to twrp again. Mount data and /system and if OS is installed boot to system, else flash a ROM of your choice.
3rd way:
3. Download FLOSSbOxIN (FLOSS/Google variant available). Extract to any desktop folder. Now open 7Zip and make a zip file with all the .img files. Choose .tar (available from 7Zip dropdown as well) and rename the tar file to say rom.tar.
Once done flash this one via AP. Ensure all checkboxes are unchecked. Reboot to TWRP following the steps in method 2 above. Format data, boot to twrp, flash dm-verity and boot to system. You can wipe cache/dalvik and /hidden if you want. Will take around 10 minutes to boot. Dont forget to boot to twrp first and flash dmverity, else you will end in bootloop.
Note: With Samsung, in case you forget to flash DMVerity, and by mistake clicked boot to system, do not worry. Switch off, or reboot to twrp and mount /system and flash. Wipe dalvik and cache, reboot. Done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@vdbhb59 THANK YOU SO MUCH ,SIR.I was about to sell the phone coz TWRP could not be booted.
Finally,TWRP is booted huge thanks to you.Procedure 2 did not work(bootloop) and Procedure 3 gave me .binary error in odin(maybe i messed up in some steps).But Procedure 1 was easiest and foolproof & it booted TWRP in first try without any bootloops.
Now coming to Floss ROM(Vanilla).It was simple,clean and elegant and performance is good as well.I have not checked the battery life with this ROM but i hope it gives me more than standard battery life.Will be checking other ROMS as well-Lineage,Bliss,Turbo etc. and will be settling once i find ROM suitable for me.
Again thank you DEV for guiding me,giving me your time and most importantly contributing to this community !!

Ajayagrawal said:
@vdbhb59THANK YOU SO MUCH ,SIR.I was about to sell the phone coz TWRP could not be booted.
Finally,TWRP is booted huge thanks to you.Procedure 2 did not work(bootloop) and Procedure 3 gave me .binary error in odin(maybe i messed up in some steps).But Procedure 1 was easiest and foolproof & it booted TWRP in first try without any bootloops.
Now coming to Floss ROM(Vanilla).It was simple,clean and elegant and performance is good as well.I have not checked the battery life with this ROM but i hope it gives me more than standard battery life.Will be checking other ROMS as well-Lineage,Bliss,Turbo etc. and will be settling once i find ROM suitable for me.
Again thank you DEV for guiding me,giving me your time and most importantly contributing to this community !!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anytime mate. Actually all the 3 ways I mentioned, do work. Probably, some trouble while flashing. However, no worries, I am glad you were able to boot to TWRP and flash a bloat free OS. Enjoy mate, and happy riding.
Battery life is around 1.5-2 days basis your usage. At times more, touching 3.5 days too. Again, the logic basis is always usage and background stuff.
Bliss does not boot for all, LOS does though.
BTW, which FLOSSbOxIN variant did you try? Google one will eat more battery obviously, against FLOSS one.

FLOSS(Vanilla)-[without google] review
Everything is good with the ROM but some problems i faced could be solved by following procedures:
1.If some apps does not work/launch as expected then "UNINSTALL AS SYSTEM" then REINSTALL it or INSTALL APP OF YOUR CHOICE.For eg:Vinyl player.
2.If AURORA STORE does not download apps then first give permission to Aurora Services and then rerun Store.Otherwise install GooglePlayStore manually once, update GMS and it will work.PS:You can delete PlayStore or disable if you want to.
Other than these everything is FINE.Would certainly recommend to try this ROM ?

Ajayagrawal said:
Everything is good with the ROM but some problems i faced could be solved by following procedures:
1.If some apps does not work/launch as expected then "UNINSTALL AS SYSTEM" then REINSTALL it or INSTALL APP OF YOUR CHOICE.For eg:Vinyl player.
2.If AURORA STORE does not download apps then first give permission to Aurora Services and then rerun Store.Otherwise install GooglePlayStore manually once, update GMS and it will work.PS:You one delete PlayStore or disable if wants to.
Other than these everything is FINE.Would certainly recommend to try this ROM ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for this mate. Though not bugs, but the app behaviour itself. The ROM itself does not have any bugs.

October release coming soon.

Dear Dev,
Thanks for the rom.
My 3 queries
1. Getting access denied on some files like magisk, odin, and m30 database.
2. Is there any aggresive battery saver or something alike in rom which switches off all functions except calling?
3. The download link to download google version is very slow and is showing close to 17 hours to download on 150 MBps connection.
Thanks and Regards
Ashish

ashish128 said:
Dear Dev,
Thanks for the rom.
My 3 queries
1. Getting access denied on some files like magisk, odin, and m30 database. Also, you will only need the ROM, DMV erity & Magisk files anyways.
2. Is there any aggresive battery saver or something alike in rom which switches off all functions except calling?
3. The download link to download google version is very slow and is showing close to 17 hours to download on 150 MBps connection.
Thanks and Regards
Ashish
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Ashish,
Actually, AFH is having some issues. I too am unable to view files at times. Magisk and ODIN are Public files anyways. You can navigate with androidfilehost then my user, which is vdbhb59.
Battery saver is there, Ultradata by Samsung itself. You can use any 3rd party app too.
Google version link is quick here. Showing 25 minutes at 80Mbps.

Update - 20201017
Hi All,
Update released for the new version.
N.B., the update by Samsung never was for October 2020 patches, and was only a con, as they moved the apps & priv-app between the 2 folders, and added a very big BUG along with several privacy issues.
When I reached out to them with the details, I was blocked, and my account was suspended.
I have stripped away every bit and piece of bloat and BUGS (afaic). Security patch is still September.
Also, the stock camera is now replaced with 2 open variants, and much better ones. With the latest update, while trying to remove Knox, and some resources, the stock Camera breaks up fully, and the hidl does not link, rendering the app useless.
Magisk Canary 20201017
20201017 - FLOSSbOxIN_Foogle_V2_20201017
20201017 - FLOSSbOxIN_V2.2_20201017

Difference between the 2 versions
Difference between the 2 versions -->
FLOSSbOxIN_Foogle_V2_20201017 - this version is a bit smaller compared to the version 2.2 below. Version 2.2 contains a few more privacy oriented apps, and XDA app as well inbuilt, along with OSMAnd+ and UNLP. I have retained GMS Core and Maps as OSMAnd does not cover many parts of Asia and Russia.
FLOSSbOxIN_V2.2_20201017 - this version contains the following:
SMS - QKSMS
Mail - K9 & pEp - both open source. Both more reliable then stock.
Clipboard - Added function for clipboard. Probably, some apps may not work with it. Ideally, it will come as an option with pop-ups.
Maps - GMaps, OSMAnd+, UNLP
Music - Odyssey & Vinyl
Video - MPV is a great tool. VLC somehow does not integrate with Samsung while building, so have not added it yet.
SimpleTools - Gallery & Calendar alongside stock ones. Do use the open source ones, as they are fully privacy oriented. Some folks like Samsung one, but it is filth filled, and I have taken huge time out to prepare these stuffs, so do try.
Camera - OpenCamera & FreeDCam have been added. I have been using these 2 since a long time, so, do use them too.
Browser - 2 variants of Ungoogled Chromium, Bromite Webview alongside Android Webview.
Terminal - Termus. Do install the relevant addons from F-Droid/AuroraDroid and enjoy.
Downloader - Download Navi is prebuilt.
Launcher - OpenLauncher is added too, which is a better option compared to Samsung one. Use the one you prefer.
Stores - As usual F-Droid (2 variants), Aurora Store and Aurora Droid.
The ROM has been tested completely, in terms of retaining of Samsung features, and additional stuffs that I could integrate. I hope on getting Stock custom ROM soon, if the framework parts pans out, and may have inbuilt power menu options, more QS stuffs and theming, all again depending on time I can spare and framework nuisance.

It would be great if Theme option is added

vdbhb59 said:
Hi All,
Update released for the new version.
N.B., the update by Samsung never was for October 2020 patches, and was only a con, as they moved the apps & priv-app between the 2 folders, and added a very big BUG along with several privacy issues.
When I reached out to them with the details, I was blocked, and my account was suspended.
I have stripped away every bit and piece of bloat and BUGS (afaic). Security patch is still September.
Also, the stock camera is now replaced with 2 open variants, and much better ones. With the latest update, while trying to remove Knox, and some resources, the stock Camera breaks up fully, and the hidl does not link, rendering the app useless.
Magisk Canary 20201017
20201017 - FLOSSbOxIN_Foogle_V2_20201017
20201017 - FLOSSbOxIN_V2.2_20201017
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did they replaced system.img with super.img ? Samsumg keeps adding their security related sh**t in the name of security patches making difficult for devs to mod their Roms.

akhil093 said:
Did they replaced system.img with super.img ? Samsumg keeps adding their security related sh**t in the name of security patches making difficult for devs to mod their Roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. They moved few /system/apps to /priv-app and to /vendor and made a lot of framework changes to ensure boot goes for a toss. One of the worst was how system auto cleans at a schedule. Also busybox installation fails due to /system free space being minimal.
Few more things, which I think cannot explain here.

[ROM][N][7.0][STOCK][G920W8][zerofltebmc/zerofltecan]SamStock November Patch (Lightly Debloated)[RE-PACK]

Original ROM: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...loat-7-0-920-5-w8-f-i-november-patch.3649798/
I removed several apps in the ROM including a very annoying DiagMonAgent app that caused it to continuously show popup notifications.
Here is a complete list of apps I removed from this ROM: http://dr.mywebcommunity.org/g920w8/debloat/20210831-samstock-debloat-results.html
My phone works super well with this setup.
Download information:
Location: androidfilehost.com
File name: 20210831-1914-sst05-safe.zip
File size: 1.4 Gb
Information
I did not include the AROMA options for different phone vendors so if you really need those files, please use original rom. I uploaded this rom for my peronal use and because I am trying to make a debloated rom and bring the size of the zip file back down to under 1 Gb but I have several issues with required apks causing bootloops. So for now, this is a fully functional re-packed rom. I do plan to re-pack the phone vendors in a futur aroma setup but for now, I am still struggling to debloat this rom entirely. I just needed a base stock rom with as little modification as possible and this is the only ROM I found to fit this category. I am fully opened to receive any kind of help or assistance. The goal is to change the ZIP file only through my Windows computer, change any files through Notepad++ if necessary.
If you want details of what has been done in the ROM, please refer to the original author's thread.
GOAL OF THIS RE-PACK
My goal is to keep the original system but remove every other useless things. I want to drop the ROM size to under 1 Gb. I want to remove all Samsung and Google apps that are not necessary for the system to work. If people want Google Play, I want to simply download it on Open GApps. Of course, for now, I have been unsuccessfully removing other apps and had several boot loops, this is the only package I managed to re-pack that has a successfull boot and work well with my needs.
Why use an old 7.0 version?
Honestly? Because everything! Bluetooth connection, camera, stability. Everything works. The only VERY annoying things I hate about v7.0 are:
PROBELM: Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode does NOT work. Apps compatible with PiP will not display any PiP content such as floating video call windows.
SOLUTION: The only similar effect you can have is by enabling in the dev options the "Force activities to be resizable" at the very bottom. Then, in an app you want to have displayed in a floating window, tap on your "All apps" button and drag your app's window on the little square that says "Open in pop-up view".
PROBLEM: Dark modes for apps like GMail and the user interface is not supported unless you seriously start to tinker arround with very creative workarrounds I have not tested.
SOLUTION: I did not test any.
Kernel Source
The kernel supplied in this re-pack is the original kernel from SamStock's original package (G920W8) with no changes. Based off SamStock's thread which states:
Untouched. Completely stock out of the latest zip from sammobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So source is based off original Samsung Kernel Source.
ROOT Magisk
This rom is NOT ROOTED. I removed the outdated supplied Magisk from the original ROM since I prefer to use the latest available version that works without any issues. Just remember to rename the Magisk APK file's extension to ".zip" and flash after flashing this rom. I also use the original APK file to install after first boot because the zip only enables root access but the APK installs the Magisk manager app and enables the popup message to grant root permissions to apps. It is not a requirement since Magisk will download the app automatically when you try to open it the first time, but it just makes you spend less time waiting for the automatic download and installs the app immediately. Installing the APK manually will require a reboot.
AdAway
This is the goto app to remove annoying ads in almost all apps. ROOT is required. To install, head to ApkMirror and download version 4.3.6. That's the latest version that still works very well on Android v7.0. You will be required to do 2 reboots, one after installing the app and enabling adblock and one for updating the hosts file.
Google
You will have a long update list to go through your initial boot to update all apps from Google App Store INCLUDING the app store itself. Please pay attention to Google Services notification because you may need to manually update Google Services if it does not do it on it's own for apps to work such as GMail and other Google apps.
I suggest you disable the "upday" app which Google Update installs. I hate this app so much that I disable the notification, force stop AND disable the app. I have not found any solution yet to prevent this app from being installed.
XPosed Framework
You need the sdk24 version. It works and boots without any problems BUT, it's old and I found it to be pretty much useless. Some stuff such as the Dark mode for GMail module does not work anymore. So I do not recommend you to install XPosed unless you already are familiar with modules you want to use and already know that is working.
What I wil NOT do (unsupported models)
I own only the W8 version of the phone so any other models I cannot support. BUT, I can say this, you can refer to the debloated list above to remove the apps from the ZIP file and repackage the file yourself for your model by downloading the right version on the original author's mod page. As I mentioned, this is a safe debloat list where the phone successfully boots and setups.
I cannot test phone calls and SMS because I do not use this function on my phone. I use a SIP phone service through GrandStream Wave and VoIP.ms. So if you have any issues concerning phone calls or SMS, please comment or check the list of removed apps above and mention to me what is needed and I will post a new upload with the included package. While you may be waiting for my fix, I suggest you use the original author's files.
KNOWN ISSUES
You will need to install another launcher to be able to change wallpaper since I removed some of Samsung's core apps which were linked to the Samsung store including the wallpaper switcher. I recommend the Microsoft Launcher which is entirely free and has all the basic functions including notification dots and icon pack themes.
INSTALLATION
• Backup your system and files
• Boot in TWRP (Hold Volume Up+Home Button+Power Button)
• Format and advance wipe everything
• Install zip file
• Optional: Install Magisk (rename apk extension to zip)
• Reboot System
Stuck in a bootloop or unresponssive phone?
Hard reboot your phone by holding Volume Down+Home Button+Power Button. Once the screen goes black, immediately Hold Volume Up+Home Button+Power Button and you will be back in TWRP. If it fails, simply repeat the Volume Down hard reboot until you get the timing right with Volume Up afterwards. That's what I do and it works but hopefully, this should NOT happen because it does not on my end.
Permission: I requested month's ago permission from the author and never got an answer so I presume that the project is abandonned or not followed anymore. So if ever the author somehow has specific requests or want's me to remove this, I will do so without hesitating after contacting me through PM.
XDA DevDB Information
SamStock ROM Debloated, ROM for the Samsung Galaxy S6 G920W8
Contributors
Moiz Ahmed
Supported Model: SM-G920W8 ONLY
ROM OS Version: 7.0 Nougat
ROM Kernel: Linux 3.10.x
ROM Firmware Required: Latest Modem and Bootloader
Based On: Samsung Stock / SamStock Rom (G920W8)
Version Information
Status: Stable
Stable Release Date: 2017-07-31
Created 2017-08-01
Last Updated 2017-12-25
Re-Pack Date: 2021-08-31