Samsung Galaxy Tab A SM-T550 Software upgrade - Samsung Galaxy Tab A series Questions & Answers

So I have had this tablet for years now and I have never upgraded it's software (It is currently on 5.0.2). Since I rooted it, I can not upgrade it through the settings build-in system (Neither I am sure if I should).
I have a few questions :
1. Should I even upgrade it ?
2. Will I lose any data if I do ?
3. (If answer to 2. is yes) Is there any way to save my data (I am mostly interested in whatsapp messages and all of my google accounts).
4. Will my tablet run faster/slower or the same as before ?
If this is not the right forum for this kind of question, I apologize and please move the thread to the appropriate forum.

Related

[Q] Easy questions about custom android ROMs and application compatibility

I am teaching my brother how to flash an android ROM and he keeps asking me questions that I can not answer. I keep telling him to ask you guys but he says he's too "busy".
Flashing the ROM is fairly easy, so the questions I am asking you guys should be fairly simple.
1. If my brother flashes his T-Mobile HD2 ROM into a fairly stable custom Android version, will his HD2 be able to install Android applications?
2. I understand that flashing a ROM will delete all data (such as contacts, application, and text messages), what software will allow my brother to backup and restore the erased data on a T-Mobile HD2?
3. I have used Sprite Backup for windows mobile before. I understand it is available for android. My question is: will Sprite Backup for Android work on a T-Mobile HD2 with a custom android ROM?
4. This question is under the pretense that Android software should work. I heard that whether or not Android software works will depend on which version of Android you are using. For example, Froyo (2.20) will not support most Android software until the developer releases an update that is Froyo compatible. I am probably wrong, as I know NOTHING about Android. Is my statement about application compatibility true?
1. Yes you can install apps from martket etc.
2. I have no idea as i've never bothered with backing up my stuff in winmo, however applications in winmo are not compatible to android.
3. Yes, most, if all, work on the HD2
4. Same thing, most, if all, work on the HD2. froyohas been out for a year, so most devs should have updated their apps to be froyo compatible.
1. Short, Yes; Long: Some apps may not work with some types of android. I have android 2.3, and some games do no work. However, most games do work, and probably the few that don't work, will get updated soon to work with android 2.3
2. I could type this out, but someone else did, so credits to Brownman
2. Importing WM Contacts into Android (thanks to brownman)
You need PIM Backup, a computer with internet access and a Gmail account.
1. Open PIM Backup on your Windows Mobile device. Select the Backup action and unselect everything but contacts, then hit Next.
2. At the "Select backup filename and folder" screen, unselect the "compress backup" and "binary backup" options, then hit Next.
3. Transfer the BACKUP.PIB file that you just made from your phone to your computer. Change the extension from .PIB to .RAR, then extract the file.
4. The extracted file should be BACKUP.CSC. Simply change the extension to .CSV and import the file to your gmail account. All your contacts can now be imported to your phone through gmail - just follow the instructions given in the phone's contact menu.
or activesync with google http://www.google.com/support/mobile...&answer=138636
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From the http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=5969936 thread.
3. Sorry I do not know the answer.
4. As stated above me, Froyo is widely supported. Gingerbread also only has some apps that don't work, but I think they will be in the near future.
Before flashing android, please do take the time to read the FAQS and Guides so you are well prepared to have android running on you device.
Thank you guys. Your answers were all helpful.
A) All I needed to know now is if I will be able to use backup software from ANDROID to ANDROID. And based on your answers, it's very likely.
B) Since I am here I will also ask: Let's say that my current HD2 is running an Android ROM. Do I need to revert back to windows mobile every time I flash to a different Android ROM?
A) It is very likely, I personally use Titanium Backup, but there are more applications available.
B) No you do not have to revert to WinMo if you would like to flash another Android Rom.
All my questions are answered. Thanks.

[FAQ] Common Issues and Solutions for SGT7.7, now with JB (12 May 2013+)

After seeing similar questions get asked and answered several time over, I thought this might be helpful (not least for myself). No particular order for now. Feel free to propose additional Q/A or edits--I'll credit accordingly. Thanks to our moderator (original_ganjaman) for making this a sticky.
This is meant to be a quick reference that either briefly answers a question or links to the answer--for issues with more or less known solutions. This is not the best place to post new, previously unanswered questions.
If you found this FAQ useful, do click on the "Thanks" button on the left.
* * * * * * * * *
JELLYBEAN (Added 12 May 2013+)
Q1: Can it be that the wait is over?
Indeed. Some ten months after the ICS update to our beloved SGT7.7 (and the release of JB into the wild), the Jelly Bean (Android 4.1.2) update has finally arrived. As of now, the ROM for Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, and Malaysia (PDA= P6800DXMD3, CSC = P6800OLBMD3) is available; and only for the P6800 (not the P6810). If you device came from the appropriate locations and have an appropriate stock ROM, you should be able to update via Kies. Else, download the file from Sammobile.com (search for "P6800").
The two main methods for flashing the ROM (not counting officially via Kies) are ODIN, and MobileODIN (requires a rooted device before flashing). Instructions for using both can be found here. Flashing with MobileODIN can be done preserving root, which is convenient. I have upgraded my SGT7.7 (Hong Kong model) with the Singapore ROM, using MobileODIN, wiping cache and data (thus losing my old apps, etc.), but preserving root--apparently, doing it this way can help avoid some potential wifi issues (reported in the forums), and battery life.
Q2: What languages are available in the SEA ROM (PDA = P6800DXMD3, CSC = P6800OLBMD3)?
As the ROM is meant for Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and Malaysia), the available languages are: English (UK), English (US), Bahasa Indonesia, Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil (?), Tieng Viet, Korean and Chinese (Simplified). A workaround for getting additional input languages is described in this post. Alternatively, you can also install swype (from Play Store), which has the option for downloading ton of additional input languages.
Developing...
* * * * * * * * *
ICE CREAM SANDWICH (Added 6 July 2012; edited 27 July 2012)
Q1: Whaa...?
As of the time of posting, the Android 4.0 ICS upgrade is only available via Kies for devices from Austria, and as more recently, Hong Kong. However, it is possible to download a copy of the respective ROMs from sammobile.com--search for "P6800" (3g/wifi version) or "P6810 (wifi only version). The .zip file is 590+MB. Be sure to get the correct ROM as the one for the P6800 will not work on the P6810 and vice versa. The ROMs do seem to work on devices from a variety of countries (not counting the Verizon 7.7). A list of languages supported in the Austria ROM can be found here. See here for discussion of the Hong Kong ROM.
The two main methods for flashing the ROM (not counting officially via Kies) are ODIN, and MobileODIN (requires a rooted device before flashing). Instructions for using both can be found here. Flashing with MobileODIN can be done preserving root, which is convenient. A detailed and guide using ODIN can also be found here.
It is also possible to flash with HEIMDALL--but just make sure that it is not Ver. 1.3.2 (1.3.1 works fine). The main bits: heimdall flash --cache cache.img --factoryfs factoryfs.img --hidden hidden.img --modem modem.bin --recovery recovery.img --secondary-boot Sbl.bin --kernel zImage; then CWM can be flashed with heimdall flash --recovery recovery.img (cgm999)
Flashing the ICS Rom over a STOCK Rom (both rooted and unrooted) preserves settings and most of the third-party apps, i.e., wiping is not required. (All told, this is also probably the safest way to proceed.) Mileage varies if flashing over non-stock Roms. (UPDATE--wintermute000 writes: "...doing a clear data/factory reset in locerra's Clockwork Recovery is 100% safe, the brick bug affects STOCK recovery.
More information on the brick bug and whether it affects ICS on the 7.7; also this.).
Some of the issues involving missing or non-functioning stock apps seems resolved if the a factory reset is done after flashing (settings>Back up and reset>Factory data reset; or when off, hold volume up and briefly press power to access option to factory reset). UPDATE--WildmanJoe writes: "...following a suggestion from another member on the board, I have found that it is not necessary to do a factory reset if your stock apps don't work. Just go to settings>applications and clear the data for the stock apps that don't work. It is tedious, however, it eliminates the factory reset brick risk..."
ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT YOU FLASH AT YOUR OWN RISK AS IT IS POSSIBLE TO BRICK YOUR DEVICE (see this discussion, and this.)
See here for a database of successful/unsuccessful upgrade configurations. (Do also contribute your own experience.)
Q2: What's it like?
As anticipated, the tab is way more responsive with ICS rather than Honeycomb. But having said that, ICS for the SGT7.7 does come with Samsung's 'enhancements', which means touchwiz (and no stock ICS Launcher). The Email, Contacts, Calendar ("S-Planner"), Messaging, Clock, etc. apps are also from Samsung. On the bright side, the unable-to-write-to-externalSD problem seems solved.
Q3: How do I modify the looks of it?
As with Honeycomb, an alternative launcher is still recommended (unless you have a special love for touchwiz). Possibilities include the old favorites ADW Launcher Ex, Go Launcher, LauncherPro, etc., but now also including those that only work with ICS and above: e.g., Nova and Apex. Furthermore, you can also install a status bar that looks (mostly) like stock ICS with this mod.
Q4: Can I install stock Google apps?
Search for "Android 4 ICS Calendar", "Android 4 ICS Messaging SMS" and "Android 4 ICS Launcher" by Tim Hutt in Play Store.
Q5: What about the Browser?
A Samsung tweaked version. You can always install Google Chrome (Play Store)--but this one does not work with flash--or Dolphin HD.
Q6: What about the keyboard(s)?
Comes with a Samsung keyboard, swype, and voice input. The version of Swype that comes with the Rom supports a limited number of languages, and there is no option to download more languages. If you want to use swype with other languages, go to the swype website, sign up for a free account, and follow the instructions to install swype beta. Swype beta can coexist with the version of swype that came with the Rom, and allows the possibility of installing additional languages (including Arabic, Korean, Chinese, etc.).
If what you want is the stock ICS keyboard, search for "IceCream Sandwich-ICS Keyboard" in the Play Store.
Q7: Can I root?
Yes and no. To be more precise: a rooted stock Honeycomb Rom can be upgraded to ICS via MobileODIN while preserving root. Update: here is a method to root the ICS rom.
* * * * *
HONEYCOMB (Older version of the FAQ)
Q1: Surely this thing with its speedy processor should feel more responsive?
A: First and foremost, this thing is very speedy and responsive (see e.g., this discussion). Ok, ok, the general consensus is that Honeycomb (Android 3.0) and Samsung Touchwiz (the default launcher) are holding back the otherwise stellar hardware a little. The only solution for the first is to wait for the upcoming Ice Cream Sandwish (Android 4.0) update, slated to be released July 2012.
What can--and arguably should--be done in the meantime is to change the launcher. ADW Launcher Ex*, Go Launcher, LauncherPro, and SPB all options. Apart from being much faster, more responsible and less of a resource hog, they are also much more customizable compared to Touchwiz (search in Market for various themes and icon packs). Some worry that since Touchwiz is not removed (it can't be on stock unrooted rom), it might still be in the background. If you are afraid that it is taking up valuable processor cycles, remove all homescreen widgets on Touchwiz to make yourself feel better, like I did.
*Jade Eyed Wolf has put up a very useful video tutorial on how to use ADW here (the thread is here). To get rid of the top statusbar in ADW, see this.
Q2: Is there a way to make the system font size larger without rooting?
There is an app for that; though this is probably be a better way for the those who have rooted their device (omarrabbat).
Q3: I am unable to write to the external sd card (from within Android) using anything other than the stock file manager; is there something wrong with me?
A: No, you're fine. That's how it is out of the box. The solution requires rooting (see Q4 below) the device and changing the permissions for the sd card. See here. (You can of course write to the sd card with Windows explorer after connecting the Tab to the PC via the USB cable.) Another method for solving the problem is available here; note that you will also need the device to be rooted, and have CWM Recovery installed, beforehand (lowem).
Q4: How do I get root access?
One guide is here; another (with instructions to unroot) is here.
Q5: Why can't I seem to change the lockscreen wallpaper?
Settings>Screen>Screen display>Lock screen. At which point you should be in Gallery (or if, like me, you have an alternative pic viewer--e.g., QuickPic--installed, the dialogue box should ask you to "select wallpaper from"...). Select photo of choice, but make sure to crop with Gallery, and presto. See discussion here.
Q6: How do I get movies and tv shows onto the tab?
See this discussion.
Q7: How do I connect my tab to my PC using a USB cable? Wireless?
Make sure that the appropriate drivers are installed on the PC (e.g., download and install Samsung Kies. When plugged in, Windows should recognize the tab as an MTP device, which allows one to browse both the internal storage and the external sd card in Explorer. The option to convert files as you copy to the device is not a good idea (see this). Best to do any conversion you want on the PC. It's safe to disconnect by simply pulling out the USB cable.
For wireless file transfers (and much more), try Airdroid, which works, and is free.
Q8: What's a good pdf reader for this baby?
There are several good choices: EBookDroid, Repligo, EzPDF, Mantano, Aldiko...
Additional input (for compiling this page) from: lousyfer, lowem, cgm999, Wildmanjoe, wintermute000
Reply from Samsung re: ICS for P6800
Dear XXXX,
Thank you for contacting Samsung Customer Care.
Unfortunately we do not have any details with regards to when an update will come for your device. Rest assured the development team are working on the next update and your issue has been noted .
If you have any further enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Samsung Customer Care.
Thank you for contacting Samsung.
Kind regards,
XXXXXXXXXX
-------------------------------------------------------
Dear Samsung team member, can you please pressure the product team to release an upgrade to this device as the screen fonts are so small its very difficult to use.
I have read in a number of forums that customers are not happy with this problem and some believe that it will be fixed with the release of ICS for this device.
I bought the product with the intention of using it for work and its painfull to read. I really hope something can be done to fix this urgently.
Kind regards
XXXX
---------- Post added at 08:20 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:05 AM ----------
Q3: I am unable to write to the external sd card using anything other than the stock file manager; is there something wrong with me?
A: No, you're fine. That's how it is out of the box. The solution requires rooting (see Q4 below) the device and changing the permissions for the sd card. See here.
I can rite to SD card and device with windows explorer. i did not root. I am using windows 7.
lousyfer said:
Q3: I am unable to write to the external sd card using anything other than the stock file manager; is there something wrong with me?
A: No, you're fine. That's how it is out of the box. The solution requires rooting (see Q4 below) the device and changing the permissions for the sd card. See here.
I can rite to SD card and device with windows explorer. i did not root. I am using windows 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the Samsung info. I was referring to writing the external sd from within Android. (See the linked discussion in the FAQ.)
Thanks for this
Theory said:
Thanks for the Samsung info. I was referring to writing the external sd from within Android. (See the linked discussion in the FAQ.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks - i can write to SD card from within android using their stock file manager without any issues
Hi, a weird thing happened here. I paired my tab with two Bluetooth headsets and both work fine. Paired it with my laptop and another laptop, but it can't send or receive files from either. Any ideas?
P.s. thanks for the page!!
Sent from my GT-P6800 using xda premium
7.7 and kies
hey there.. i got my tab 7.7 yesterday in singapore, official samsung store. now i try to connect it to kies but he always say me: your model is not working with kies 2.0.
i use it with my galaxy s 2, no probs, and also kies air.. nope..
i use last kies version and win 7 pro
n.b.: even in wifi, kies doesnt work and my S2 is rooted..
i need to sync with outlook, thats why i need kies..
thanks guys for a quick solution..
deckensian said:
Hi, a weird thing happened here. I paired my tab with two Bluetooth headsets and both work fine. Paired it with my laptop and another laptop, but it can't send or receive files from either. Any ideas?
P.s. thanks for the page!!
Sent from my GT-P6800 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've used Bluetooth File Transfer app from the market on my SGS phone to send files to my paired GT-P6810. It works great. Remember though that BT is sloooow so use alternate, egWiFi, for large files.
FarmBoi said:
I've used Bluetooth File Transfer app from the market on my SGS phone to send files to my paired GT-P6810. It works great. Remember though that BT is sloooow so use alternate, egWiFi, for large files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for the info, will try it out.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using xda premium
occhiblughiaccio said:
hey there.. i got my tab 7.7 yesterday in singapore, official samsung store. now i try to connect it to kies but he always say me: your model is not working with kies 2.0.
i use it with my galaxy s 2, no probs, and also kies air.. nope..
i use last kies version and win 7 pro
n.b.: even in wifi, kies doesnt work and my S2 is rooted..
i need to sync with outlook, thats why i need kies..
thanks guys for a quick solution..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't offer a solution but would be keen to see if anyone can. I have the same problem. My 7.7 3G just won't connect to Kies. I'm running Vista, but will soon have a new PC with Win 7, so will try again then.
No probs with my SG2
scarytas said:
I can't offer a solution but would be keen to see if anyone can. I have the same problem. My 7.7 3G just won't connect to Kies. I'm running Vista, but will soon have a new PC with Win 7, so will try again then.
No probs with my SG2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine is running on kies with no problems. If useful I have win 7 and downloaded kies from Samsung website.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using xda premium
no way.. i tried everything.. he recognize kies air.. but no kies.. win 7 and last samsung kies..
Hi,
Had the same issue. Fixed it by deinstallimg Kies, make regclean, install Kies from scratch.
Worked fine for me ;-)
i did.. still same problem..
For Q3, found a slightly easier way via the "update.zip" method over at this thread : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1458021
It's under Tab 7 Plus forum but I've tried it and it works for Tab 7.7 as well.
lowem said:
For Q3, found a slightly easier way via the "update.zip" method over at this thread : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1458021
It's under Tab 7 Plus forum but I've tried it and it works for Tab 7.7 as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is good. The original poster noted that the method "won't work for a device that doesn't have CWM Recovery installed." What about your own 7.7: was it rooted and did you have CWM Recovery installed when you use the update.zip?
Theory said:
This is good. The original poster noted that the method "won't work for a device that doesn't have CWM Recovery installed." What about your own 7.7: was it rooted and did you have CWM Recovery installed when you use the update.zip?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, my Tab 7.7 is rooted, using the root.zip method discussed here. And yes also to the second, I installed the CWM Recovery 5.0.2.7 discussed here.
What is the LOST.DIR folder?
Can the folder itself or the files within them be removed?
Is there a safe way to remove the tablet from the connection a computer via USB?
uncle_buckman said:
What is the LOST.DIR folder?
Can the folder itself or the files within them be removed?
Is there a safe way to remove the tablet from the connection a computer via USB?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure.
I've always just pulled my USB cable out. Doesn't seem to be any issue. I suppose it's more proper to effect it on the PC first.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using xda premium
Windows doesn't have an "eject" or "safely remove hardware" option for devices connected via MTP--at least, not one like it does for HDDs, flash drives, or other USB mass storage devices. As long as you're not using the connection it's fine to just unplug it.

Manually unlock/root/customise

Hi all,
Finally received my nexus 4 after suuuch a long wait.
I went the nexus root as I'd really like to learn all the ins and outs of android. I'm working as a web dev now (nothing with java).
This is my first android device and I will soon want to unlock, root and try manually amend system files.
I have some questions though:
1. Can I unlock the phone through the terminal manually and without adb file? I want to do everything myself.
2. Are there any tutorials on rooting manually a nexus 4 (I saw a gnex). I don't want to use a tool kit for now.
3. I'd like to try start amending (very basic) some System files. Will it be easy to transfer over the code when updates come?
4. Do I really have to keep backing up etc. I can't believe that you get root in the version and not the actual device!
Thanks!
Feck!!! Can a mod please move to q&a nexus 4

Galaxy S4 LTE (i9505) - Issues After Upgrade to 4.4.2

Hi!
Just a few hours after upgrading to 4.4.2 (OTA official) I started to notice some "flaws" in the new OS. Of course there are lot´s of new good things too, but wouldn´t be better if we could eliminate some of the flaws too?
That´s why I´m creating this thread - with the purpose of exchanging experiences regarding the issues and solutions found in order to improve 4.4.2 usability.
I´m starting by sharing my experience with one of the most annoying drawbacks (at least in my opinion): the way external SD card is being used. 4.4.2 simply doesn´t allow data exchange between user installed programs (and data) and external SD card. I´m an user of FX File Manager (in my opinion one of the best file managers I ever seen).
When I opened for the first time in the new OS, the following message appeared: "Your SD Card may now be read only. This device is running Android 4.4 or later and appears to have both an internal storage area and external storage. Google imposed new restrictions in the Android 4.4 KitKat Update: applications that you install yourself ar no longer allowed to write to the "secondary external" storage (the MicroSD card). Applications installed by Google, the device manufacturer, and/or your mobile carrier ar exempt from this restriction. Only applications you choose to install are restricted. Some devices may not enforce this restriction, and other may have a means of disabling it. If you find yourself unable to write to your external SD card, please contact either your mobile carrier or device´s manufacturer support.This problem can be worked around if you have superuser access. Please refer to websites/forums related to your specific device for information."
Awkward!!!
I tried to move some files from my internal download to external SD card and no transfer was possible...
After searching for some workaround, the only way I could manage this situation was by installing ES File Explorer, which found a way to overcome this limitation for file transfer. Of course it solves the issue very partially, since no other programs (including photo / film software) will be able to overcome this problem.
I invite everyone who have/had an issue with 4.4.2 to use this as a way to exchange information, creating a single thread that will make easier to find issues and solutions (if available).
Fixing in general section. It was bug in leaked version but never thought they didn't fix it in OTA version? Flash 3rd kernel would pretty much solve problem I guess. But either way needs root access which means probably avoid warranty due to KNOX
来自我的 GT-I9505 上的 Tapatalk
1. Worse battery management than JB
2. More lagging in games and UI
Generally much ado about nothing imho
I am not installed yet the 4.4.2 update in my GT-I9505 because my carrier sure be the last one to adjust the base to post the update. (Venezuela - DIGITEL).
Regarding some of your issues, particulary the access to the SD Card, I recently read in one post on Questions section with two alternatives to activate the access to the card.
Check it and let us now if reallly working before the rest of the members take the adventure to install the 4.4.2 Kit Kat version.
Good look
what's up igruberger
I use X-plore on my S4, I can transfer files but I cant read newly transferred Mp3's from my external sd since kitcat 4.4 why has this stupid restriction being put in place!!!!! royally pissed off!!!!! and are you aware of any work around yet?? its not the phones manufacturer that can fix the problem, its the android software developers as its a software issue not hardware.
Problem whit my LTE
after the update i could not receive 3G or H or H+ or LTE only Edge someone know how to fix this i'm living in Belgium my carrier is Proximus
build I9505XXUGNF1
Baseband-version I9505XXUFNBA
Thx in advantage

Issues with Accelerometer/Screen Rotation

Before I get shut down for posting about a topic that has been posted before - I am doing this so others can access all the info in one place without having to scour the web/forum/posts.
Firstly let me point out a couple of important topics of discussion:
- You may just have a phone that has a hardware error. If you run through this post and options and you don't have any success, give some serious thought to getting it repaired because no matter how many new rom releases come out it isn't going to fix it.
- Full SELinux Support - If you use TWRP2 they have recently updated to 2.7.0.1 - It's worth reading through the 'Note' listed in the changelog. They talk about how Full SELinux Support is needed for installing Kit Kat roms and some of their older versions didn't support it. (http://teamw.in/project/twrp2)
- Rom and App settings - The Rom has several places to tick/untick screen rotation. Some apps also have screen rotation toggles. The important one is the Rom settings, make sure you have actually turned rotation on. It can be found in the notifications menu at the top of your screen (if you haven't removed it through customisation), also in Settings>Display> which is not to be confused with 'Smart rotation'.
- Smart Rotation - You do not need this turned on for screen rotation to work. In fact I would recommend leaving it turned off as it slows screen rotation down. I'll leave it up to you.
- Samsung Bloatware - There has been some talk on the forum about how removing Samsung apps has caused screen rotation to break. This is possible as several library files are shared. Since you are running a "custom" Rom it's hard to know whether any scripts have been included in the installation that haven't been specifically listed in a changelog.
- Model Vs Region Vs Solution - There are quite a few S4 models available at present. Most of these have hardware differences and the solution that worked for someone else may not work for you. It's good for you to start by learning what the differences are and what components were included in the version you purchased (this will save headaches later).
BACKUP YOUR DATA - I will not be held responsible for any actions you take with your device!
Ok, let's get started with the options/work arounds that you may wish to use and how they work (You will need to have root access):
1. ReInstall the Rom - This is the first place to start. You can usually install over the top of the initial installation without any issues. This would replace any data that may be corrupt from the installation. If you have installed a custom kernel it will install the one that comes with the Rom.
2. Clean install of the Rom - Sometimes we have to strip it all the way back to like-new. This means you would need to Factory Reset the phone (this will remove all apps and sign in data). If you wish to go all the way in cleaning off your device there is a Format option available in TWRP2 and PhilzTouch. Don't format unless you know what you're doing otherwise you could format the EFS data and then you're screwed. Don't say you haven't been warned.
3. a) Install a Library file (through recovery) - This is a script that has been built to replace a library file that is removed when you uninstall Samsung Hub. There is a discussion taking place in the Note3 forum where you can get the file. Be sure to follow their instructions exactly. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=50099965
b) Install a Library file (through Android) - Using the same ScreenRotation.zip file you can download from the link above, open the zip and save 'libgnustl_shared.so'. You will need to put this file on your phone somewhere you can find it so you can copy it to the correct location and set some permissions. You need root access to even attempt this one, if you are unsure about what you're doing I would proceed with caution. It's not rocket science however you want to make sure that you don't alter any of the other files. You need to place libgnustl_shared.so into the \System\Lib folder. If the file is already there I would rename the old file rather than copying over the top. This just saves you in case anything else goes wrong and you need to go back a step. You need to change the permissions of the file before going anywhere. I used ES File Explorer to move the file and it allows simple change of the file permissions (through properties). It needs to be -rw-r--r-- or if you are using ES File Explorer then it should read Owner: Read & Write, Group: Read, Other: Read. You will then need to boot into recovery and wipe cache and davlik cache (don't confuse this with Wipe: Factory Reset).
4. Install a Stock Rom from YOUR phone provider - Telco's spend time and money ensuring their releases work with all the features of the phone, this is sometimes the reason why they take so long to update their software. Some of these features are Telco specific and others are region specific (hence my comment about being aware of what you have purchased). If you have installed a stock rom and you still have screen rotation issues it is likely (not guaranteed) that there is a hardware issue. In my experience installing a stock unmodified rom often addresses the issues that crop up on custom roms. It's worth testing it for a day or two on stock to ensure it's not intermittent. If you are willing to go to all the trouble you could try installing a custom rom again. I have has success in the past doing it this way. I can only assume that the installation of the stock rom addresses issues with internal components/firmware.
5. Kit Kat Roms - If you have loaded a bootloader that excludes you from installing your carriers stock rom (due to it being Jelly Bean or earlier), there are stock Kit Kat roms you can download in the forum. You won't have the added support of carrier addons and tweaks, however you will still get stock Samsung which is the next best thing.
What to do if none of the above work?
There are two options 1. Send it off for repair 2. Continue to work on it yourself with the help of others on the forum.
If you wish to continue working on it yourself or you have voided your warranty here are some tools to help. You need to take a look at whether your accelerometer is working - This is indicative only (an indicator) and will help you narrow the problem down.
1. In your dialer (phone) put in the following *#0*#
This will allow you to go in and see how the components are responding - You want to take a look at Sensors.
2. Accelerometer Monitor/Test Applications
There are quite a few for free on the market place - They will show you how the X, Y & Z axis are responding to the movement of the phone. Sometimes it is quite obvious when certain axis are not responding at all. Some of these applications will allow you to calibrate the sensors. I am not 100% sure whether these calibration options will work on Kit Kat. If you are speaking with a developer of a custom rom they will often query you for log data, this is code that will help them work out what is going wrong. This doesn't guarantee they will be able to fix it. Not all of the accelerometer apps provide a log but is necessary information you'll need if you decide to go down that path.
(AndroSensor is relatively good - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fivasim.androsensor)
Let me know how you go.

Categories

Resources