Related
Right, let's delve right into this. Though I warn you, it's quite long.
I recently purchased a Nook Simple Touch in the hopes that, after rooting, I would be able to install the Amazon Kindle app.
Things have not gone according to plan.
I am by no means technically inept, I revel in subverting electrical devices into doing things in which they were never designed.
This is why it pains me to have to come here, asking for assistance.
What I Did:
I used TouchNooter 2.1.31 to root my Nook, which was at version 1.1. I followed the somewhat detailed instructions to the letter, and was happily greeted with the Android screen. "Huzzah!" I exclaimed in my exuberance, all was as it should be, my buttocks finally able to unclench itself.
I proceeded with the setup, when I came upon the choice of if I wanted Google to be able to find where I was located, and if they could have access to my Nook, I unchecked both options, even though the instructions recommended not to.
The setup seemed to proceed unhindered. I put in my Email, and I was shown the desktop. I then proceeded to open Youtube, and logged in.
This is probably where I made a mistake. instead of trying to sign into Gmail, I went straight to the market. It didn't work as I anticipated. So I shut the Nook down and chose to wait the recommended 24 hours.
After 24 hours, I returned to my Nook, and attempted to log into the Android Market. It Worked! Goody Gumdrops.
However, attempting to download anything resulted in a message first stating "Your app will now download" And after a few seconds, a notification would pop up, telling me the download has failed, and to try again.
I chose to give up, and instead try the Amazon App Store. It booted up fine, and everything seemed to work. However, upon attempting to download something, it would start, then immediately stop, without any trace of it happening.
Now I was pretty sure, the reason for all this, is I hadn't synced my Gmail account with my Youtube account. I went and attempted it, only to discover it would supersede my Yahoo account if I continued. I chose to make an entirely new account.
I then went back into Youtube to log into my new account, and after doing so, I was greeted my a 401 Loading Error. I exited the app. and was going to try again by clicking on the Youtube App. Only now it wouldn't show up."Fiddlesticks" I mumbled, what now?
I went back to the instructions, and found that the Youtube App can sometimes flake out for unknown reasons. So that's where I left off.
I figure the easiest route to fix this would be to re-root the Nook.
And that's where I could use a bit of help.
How you can help:
I'd like to know the easiest way to re-root a nook that ISN'T Bricked. If it's not too much trouble.
Can I just use the menu inside the nook to reset to factory settings?
Or should I use this method? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1289233
What do I do once It's fixed?
After I re-root it, I'm reading that, because it runs on Android 2.1, many apps no longer work, and older versions must be obtained.
It seems like I need the file ES File Explorer to be able to install these old apps, but how does one go about getting said file explorer on the Nook in the first place?
So if anyone would be so kind, as to take the time to not only read, but answer my questions, I would be eternally grateful.
If all you really want is the kindle app, I would suggest you root using 'tinynoot'. No Google apps or appstore, but you can download the Kindle for android app .apk and install it using EZ Installer, which you can get from the Amazon Marketplace. If you actually want to read email and install apps from the Google app store, you will need to use an different method however.
I beg of you: do a reset to stock and back up your device using noogie if you have not already got a bog-standard, unmodified state backup of your device. Your backup should be ~2gig in size, and a really careful person test-fires that backup on a 2-4 gig storage medium other than their NST to be sure they wind up with a disk that has 8 partitions on it once they restore.
This weekend, I decided to try manually updating my rooted glowworm to 1.2.0. I was more-or-less successful but still saw enough unusual things that I went ahead and did an image based restore. Time to backup and restore was less than 15 minutes all told. Time to **** around with manually copying in the files, rather longer
You can indeed use tinynoot which installs the Amazon appstore (much less complex than getting Play going) and I'd think that you could get Kindle installed via Amazon?
FWIW, the Kindle app on the Nook e-ink devices, ahem, fellates gangrenous goats.
I recommend using Calibre and the de-drm tools to manage your own DRM and open the possibility of migrating most or all of your Amazon library to any format you like.
Moved to http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-playstore-busybox-optimize-flash-t3281804
Download link
Thread moved to http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-playstore-busybox-optimize-flash-t3281804
Thanks a lot for this nice tool (which came in too late for myself, alas). A couple of comments:
- Could you preserve timestamps of incorporated files? It would make comparisons to existing tools easier.
- I understand that ROM size is not an issue, would it be possible to make the debloat deactivations reversible? (e.g. pm disable/hide instead of rm - if something goes wrong there would be a chance to get back functionality)
- Five minutes seem a tad on the low side - I have seen more than that in a single reboot (when cache rebuilds took place).
Nevertheless: Very nice, I hope the tool will be useful to many people unpacking Fires from their stockings!
Noob
So I can run this on the stock 5.1.1 firmware by just downloading it to the sd card and install. On home screen open and it will root and install all that is listed?
Thank you in advance
Thanks for this! I just used it on my son's brand new Fire 7" tablet. I had to modify the .sh a little to run the script in Ubuntu http://pastebin.com/C1PXnqxa
egomaster said:
So I can run this on the stock 5.1.1 firmware by just downloading it to the sd card and install. On home screen open and it will root and install all that is listed?
Thank you in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry about the unclear instructions. I updated the tutorial. You run the script from your computer with your device on the homescreen. :3
glitch3yf0x said:
Sorry about the unclear instructions. I updated the tutorial. You run the script from your computer with your device on the homescreen. :3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for clarifying. Will give this a try.
Thanks so much for the suggestions.
- I honestly don't know what you are referring to by this or how to do that, but I'll do it if you can PM me explaining it.
- Sure! I'll do this in the next version or the next, but I promise something like it will be done. :3
-I'll time it tonight and update. The script cuts off the cache rebuilds until the very end.
Thank you, the install went perfectly, this makes the Fire 5.1.1 livable until the bootloader is unlocked. I have encounter one thing, widgets cannot be added to the homescreen. Is this an expected issue or is there something going on with my tablet I need to explore?
JaboJG said:
Thanks for this! I just used it on my son's brand new Fire 7" tablet. I had to modify the .sh a little to run the script in Ubuntu http://pastebin.com/C1PXnqxa
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man. I really appreciate it. Your name has been added to the Thanks and i'll use a modified version based of your editing in the next release tonight.
Komet1 said:
Thank you, the install went perfectly, this makes the Fire 5.1.1 livable until the bootloader is unlocked. I have encounter one thing, widgets cannot be added to the homescreen. Is this an expected issue or is there something going on with my tablet I need to explore?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I know what the problem is. It'll be fixed with the next update, which probably will be less than two hours from now. I appoligise for the inconvenience.
It's just sitting on daemon started successfully for quite a while, is this normal?
not sure what is going on, ran the script and everything went fine. however, the device is still trying to update. it seems like updates weren't blocked or something. i never let it install the initial update though that it tries to do when you turn on the device. i never even connected it to a wifi network so not sure how it can even update
google play services refuses to install as well. not sure what is wrong but seems like there must be some bugs in this script.
knives of ice said:
not sure what is going on, ran the script and everything went fine. however, the device is still trying to update. it seems like updates weren't blocked or something. i never let it install the initial update though that it tries to do when you turn on the device. i never even connected it to a wifi network so not sure how it can even update
google play services refuses to install as well. not sure what is wrong but seems like there must be some bugs in this script.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's very odd. Can you attach screenshots and such so I can look into this? Also, try the updated script I have just updated the link too.
If you continue to have problems, adb sideload to start fresh.
I believe you may be getting confused with the "Updating your apps" screen, which is normal. This is android recompiling the cache for the newly installed apps.
What's the error shown when google play doesn"t install?
Soundmotion3004 said:
It's just sitting on daemon started successfully for quite a while, is this normal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not normal. What OS are you using? Is Android Debugging enabled on your device and did you allow the "Accept debugging from this computer?" prompt on your tablet?
glitch3yf0x said:
That's very odd. Can you attach screenshots and such so I can look into this? Also, try the updated script I have just updated the link too.
If you continue to have problems, adb sideload to start fresh.
I believe you may be getting confused with the "Updating your apps" screen, which is normal.
What's the error shown when google play doesn"t install?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
damn, went and used the other install script for google play store and still problems
here is the error i get when it tries to update google play services
CAN'T UPDATE APP
Update for "google play services" could not be downloaded due to an error. (error retrieving information from server. [RPCS:S-7 AEC-7 OIKJ-IY4V-YMNYK]
play store is there and i can browse through it but i know from doing this on my first fire tablet that i need to update google play services. that will not update not matter what i try i get that error. rebooting no help
any idea on what i can do. it seems like i'm rooted fine supersu is there. i have no experience with adb at all
also, wasn't confused with updating apps at all. it was the FIRE screen saying software is updating to the latest version. it seemed like it updated though i have no idea how when not connected to wifi
knives of ice said:
damn, went and used the other install script for google play store and still problems
here is the error i get when it tries to update google play services
CAN'T UPDATE APP
Update for "google play services" could not be downloaded due to an error. (error retrieving information from server. [RPCS:S-7 AEC-7 OIKJ-IY4V-YMNYK]
play store is there and i can browse through it but i know from doing this on my first fire tablet that i need to update google play services. that will not update not matter what i try i get that error. rebooting no help
any idea on what i can do. it seems like i'm rooted fine supersu is there. i have no experience with adb at all
also, wasn't confused with updating apps at all. it was the FIRE screen saying software is updating to the latest version. it seemed like it updated though i have no idea how when not connected to wifi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Fire logo with "Updating Apps..." is normal. :3 It should be gone after two reboots.
As for the google play problem, It sounds like you need to clear the data and relogin to google. Was there anything relating to google play on your device previously before the script? You may have to be connected to wifi for google play to download updates, if you still aren't.
glitch3yf0x said:
The Fire logo with "Updating Apps..." is normal. :3 It should be gone after two reboots.
As for the google play problem, is there anything relating to google play on your device currently? It sounds like you need to clear the data and relogin to google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i haven't loaded 1 thing. i never even connected to wifi before running your script.
ok i went in and cleared everything in the google framework and play store, now when i try to open play store it just spins. will not load. any suggestions? no idea what the problem could be.
EDIT - ok finally got it. for some reason it just started working. i think there must have been a notfication that was showing which i didn't accept
Glad to hear! Usually the infinite spinning wheel means you need to accept the terms of use. :3
Everything worked fine, just one note that seems to be a side affect. I had a childs profile setup before running the script, now I cannot change settings or delete the profile.
After this little adventure, I went into further testing. There is now a much simpler method of installing the Google Play Store. Fully functional. Two methods to be exact, and an experimental one.
Method 1) -Recommended if you have Safetrap 4.01
Make sure you have SuperUser (Not tested with Kingroot)
and you are running 4.5.5.1 (It'll probably work in earlier versions.)
Note: I have Superuser installed as a system app for safety.
My device is a Kindle Fire Hdx 7" (3rd gen) Thor.
-You need Safetrap (or head to method 2 for a non safe-trap procedure)
-You need to be rooted
-And you need to download from Open GApps (Platform: ARM Android: 4.4 Variant: Pico < Smallest package)
First, you must make space in System/Priv-app to flash this little package. (< There's no way around this)
I deleted [ moffice, weather, and the android.mail.apk ] (I do not need those. I actually do not need a lot of the amazon services except for books.)
Reboot into Safetrap and flash/Install the opengapps package.
Wipe Dalvik/Cache. Reboot
> If you get a "Failed" - It means you need to delete more apps.
Make sure the message reads "Insufficient space, etc" and not "incompatible,"
If you are successful, reboot.
Open the Google Play Store and simply sign in with your account. You are done.
I haven't experienced any crashing. nada.
Use Market helper for incompatible app (Although inbox by gmail isn't working for me, everything else is.)
Method 2) Recommended if you don't have Safe trap.
You might need to delete some apps from system/priv-app if you get "Insufficient space error" <For me, I didn't have to delete anything.>
You do not need Safetrap.
-You need Root and you need to follow the method described here, but with a little tweak:
Move all the apps mentioned in the guide to System/Priv-app > Account And Sync Settings, Google Services Framework, Google Login Service, and Vending.apk)
Install Google Play Services from your downloads (Normal Install) < I am using the latest ones I got off Google.>
Reboot.
Open the android market (in apps) and sign in. <
Download the latest Google Play Store (from the guide or Google)
I renamed it vending.apk for short.
Delete the vending.apk found in System/Priv-app and replace with the new one.
Reboot.
Google Play Store is functional and shouldn't crash.
--------------------------
(I highly recommend a Custom ROM. The quality and functionality can not be beaten..)
Update: Now that the kindle app on android supports exporting highlights from personal docs/side-loaded books, etc.. I've made the full switch to CM11
------
Not recommended.
The method below is now experimental. I couldn't get it to reproduce after replacing Kinguser With SuperSu.
This is a fully functional Playstore. You can search, download and update
Tested on:
Kindle Fire HDX 7" (3rd Gen) running 4.5.5.1 w/ Kingroot
* No one is more responsible for your device than you. With that in mind, back up, read carefully, don't go the extra mile just because, and be aware there is always a risk. On to the fun stuff~
You will need:
-Root
-Safetrap v4
-All 4 apks from here (Skip all the instructions there and scroll to where it says —Then install these apks—
You also need the Google Apps Minimal Edition from here.
----INSTRUCTIONS
-Move all 4 apks to sdcard/download and install each one.
-Move your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip to sdcard/download and keep it there.
Reboot into Safetrap.
* Make sure you have a backup of your STOCK Rom !
Go to Install > Find your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip and install it.
From the same screen once you are done wipe dalvik/cache
Reboot.
You might run into a gray screen ? Hit the home button. It is a one time thing.
Login to your existing Google account. You'll notice the App Store will crash after a minute.
Reboot. That's it. Playstore shouldn't crash anymore.
#If it works for other devices, versions, let me know. Thank you.
I tested it on my own device, and downloaded a couple of apps. If something changes I will update this.
Update: You can find the latest Google Play Store and Services here. Uninstalling both items is necessary to install the new version then you can use ccleaner to remove any Google app that says 'newer version installed'
I did method 2. This absolutely worked. I'm especially pleased, because I kept seeing that I would need Safestrap and a custom ROM in order to get the Play Store on my HDX 7. So, thanks for the instructions.
If I used Kingroot to root my device can I still use method 2?
Also can I use twrp instead of safestrap? I have no idea what each one does what.
I rooted my tablet (HDX 7 4.5.5.1) using Kingroot, and my ultimate goal is to use google services and youtube properly. And change the OS (Is Nexus rom a good idea?)
Thanks for any help guys.
talkslow4me said:
If I used Kingroot to root my device can I still use method 2?
Also can I use twrp instead of safestrap? I have no idea what each one does what.
I rooted my tablet (HDX 7 4.5.5.1) using Kingroot, and my ultimate goal is to use google services and youtube properly. And change the OS (Is Nexus rom a good idea?)
Thanks for any help guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- no twrp, only safestrap v4 (which limits roms to cm11 and HDX Nexus)
- Google Services does not play well with FireOS v4. Strongly encourage custom rom if Google/YouTube is the end game
- YouTube via browser is also an option. Opera works well (as do others). Need to sideload via Opera home page or Apkmirror.
Hello
I went through Method 2, but can't get google service running.
There's one step that I could not understand, moving the apk files to system/priv-ap, why do we have to do so?
Thank you
mohzean said:
Hello
I went through Method 2, but can't get google service running.
There's one step that I could not understand, moving the apk files to system/priv-ap, why do we have to do so?
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Play Services and FireOS v4 simply do not get along. This is just one of many threads that suggest an integration methodology that yields a suboptimal experience or (more commonly) a crippled device. Bite the bullet and go with Safestrap v4 and a compatible custom rom (cm11 or HDX Nexus).
Thanks Luxen!!! It works perfectly! Device: Kindle Fire HDX 7" gen 3.
I used method 1.
Installed Kingroot, SuperSU, Safestrap, removed several APKs (MOffice (WPS Office), Cannon, EPSON, HP, Weather) from System/Priv-app using Total Commander (ASTRO file manager does not work) to make spaces, applied Pico OpenGApps, wipe Dalvik/Cache, reboot.
Then boom, it just works, no errors, no nothing! Updated all google apps. Everything works!
Can't thank you enough, great jobs!
Best,
mxnerd said:
Thanks Luxen!!! It works perfectly! Device: Kindle Fire HDX 7" gen 3.
I used method 1.
Installed Kingroot, SuperSU, Safestrap, removed several APKs (MOffice (WPS Office), Cannon, EPSON, HP, Weather) from System/Priv-app using Total Commander (ASTRO file manager does not work) to make spaces, applied Pico OpenGApps, wipe Dalvik/Cache, reboot.
Then boom, it just works, no errors, no nothing! Updated all google apps. Everything works!
Can't thank you enough, great jobs!
Best,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am glad it worked out for you. Believe it or not, since I did method 1, I am still running my custom rom since that very day. Stable and smooth sailing.
Vanb85 said:
I did method 2. This absolutely worked. I'm especially pleased, because I kept seeing that I would need Safestrap and a custom ROM in order to get the Play Store on my HDX 7. So, thanks for the instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the reason I tried to experiment with several different methods. I knew there are some users that are not interested or are too intimidated by Safetrap/Custom Roms, so I am glad it worked for you! :good:
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow.
leigh80 said:
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several ways to copy/move files in ES File Explorer. Perhaps easiest is to long file and scan options that pop-up (varies by version and config) for 'copy', 'move', 'copy to', etc. If nothing obvious check in 3-dot menu. Then navigate to target folder and tap 'paste'. Multiple files can be selected and copied at once.
If the files reside on your computer you should be able to copy/move using the same technique. Or simply download the directly to your device using the built-in Silk browser then move to target folder using ES File Explorer.
Might want to consider a custom ROM which has the Play Store built-in. While Amazon and Google components get along better in FireOS 5.x it is never a happy marriage with occasional glitches as versions of both change over time.
Thank you Davey126. I will give that a try. I have debated installing a custom rom, but fear that may be a little beyond my capabilities. I am struggling enough just getting Google Play on it. I am use to Android, so it has been hard to adjust to how locked down the Kindle is. Maybe if I come across some instructions I can easily follow, I will finally give that a custom rom a try.
leigh80 said:
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually you need to turn ON the ROOT EXPLORER option from TOOLS on Es File Explorer. to do so... Tap on TOOLS > ROOT EXPLORER > MOUNT RW and then mark all 4 options on right side (under RW) and tap on OK. doing so you will be able to move, copy and delete files/apks from/to System folders.
Hi @Luxen and everyone! I have a Kindle Fire HD 7 3rd generation running Fire OS 4.5.5 (Aug. 2015) and want to install Google Play Store on it. After searching for several hours, I can't find any worked method since all threads I found are outdated and people reported they were no longer working. I'm wondering if the method in this thread can work with my Kindle? Thank you!
kyoceralover said:
Hi @Luxen and everyone! I have a Kindle Fire HD 7 3rd generation running Fire OS 4.5.5 (Aug. 2015) and want to install Google Play Store on it. After searching for several hours, I can't find any worked method since all threads I found are outdated and people reported they were no longer working. I'm wondering if the method in this thread can work with my Kindle? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In general Amazon and Google components do not play well on FireOS v4.x. It can be made to work...sort of...but tends to be susceptible when Play components auto update which happens frequently. A more reliable approach is to install a custom rom (CM11 or Nexus) that natively supports Google Play Framework, Services and Store.
If you opt to go this route the following thread may be of interest: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...used-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Google Play Store for Kindle Fire HD 7 (2013) 3rd gen on Fire OS 4.5.5
Davey126 said:
In general Amazon and Google components do not play well on FireOS v4.x. It can be made to work...sort of...but tends to be susceptible when Play components auto update which happens frequently. A more reliable approach is to install a custom rom (CM11 or Nexus) that natively supports Google Play Framework, Services and Store.
If you opt to go this route the following thread may be of interest: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...used-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great! Thank you very much! I'll try what sd_shadow suggest first
I believe that 4.5.5 can be rooted with kingroot
KingRoot thread
then see rootjunky's supersume video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3O3DcpeS_Ic
or manually install supersu with a terminal emulator
http://www.w0lfdroid.com/2015/05/How...h-SuperSU.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
then flash mine to CM11/Nexus
New here
I have the Fire HDX 7" 3rd gen and was wanting to make it a true Android tablet due to Amazon not updating it further. I have read post after post and I am so confused as to where to even begin. I know it needs to be rooted and a custom ROM installed, I just wish there was one place I could find step by step instructions to do so. I'd rather have Fire OS than have an usable tablet. Maybe I just need to give up trying to do it.
mckev24 said:
I have the Fire HDX 7" 3rd gen and was wanting to make it a true Android tablet due to Amazon not updating it further. I have read post after post and I am so confused as to where to even begin. I know it needs to be rooted and a custom ROM installed, I just wish there was one place I could find step by step instructions to do so. I'd rather have Fire OS than have an usable tablet. Maybe I just need to give up trying to do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take a peek at this thread to get a sense of what's involved. Not a step by step guide by any means but touches on the highlights. Post back with any immediate questions.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...used-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Davey126 said:
Take a peek at this thread to get a sense of what's involved. Not a step by step guide by any means but touches on the highlights. Post back with any immediate questions.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...used-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I download ES file explorer from the Amazonn app store or should it be downloaded elsewhere? I have downloaded and installed KingRoot, but I haven't ran it as of yet.
Also wanted to say thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
mckev24 said:
Can I download ES file explorer from the Amazonn app store or should it be downloaded elsewhere? I have downloaded and installed KingRoot, but I haven't ran it as of yet.
Also wanted to say thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how current the version in the Amazon App store is. Best grab a copy from here.
Tip: If unsure post any questions you may have before acting. HDX is a touchy device; easy to brick and hard (often impossible) to recover if you stray too far off the trail. Several great folks monitor these forums and can help as needed.
****UPDATE MARCH 7, 2019:****
If the guide below doesn't work for you, see additional instructions at the end.
This seems to be a huge problem for many users...location services not working when the Google Play store is installed. I have found a way to install the Play Store without breaking location services. NOTE: You don't need to install these Google APKs as system applications, but it does help a lot. So if you own an HD 8, you can perform all of the steps below by installing the four APKs as regular applications. Just follow the same steps without using any root applications.
WHAT:
When you go to settings > wireless > location services and toggle it on, you are using Amazon's location services. When the Play Store is installed on the HD 10, sometimes Google's location services doesn't kick on. The reality is, the services DO turn on, but when doing so, creates a conflict in the system. This is due in part to Amazon redirecting fragments of the internal settings. Since installing the Play Store disables Amazon's services, if Google's doesn't take over when you install the Play Store, you don't have any location services period. Although my rewrite of the settings fragment in FireTabletSettings.apk redirects the setting back to AOSP, the toggle is useless if Google never asks you to use their location services.
HOW:
For the past week, I have tested this method over and over and over, as wells as others, and the fix method I will be guiding you through, has worked every single time. WARNING: You will need to start from a freshly installed version of FireOS. Make sure you have rooted your tablet so you can DISABLE OTA
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. On your PC download these four Google Play APKs from this thread. (NOTE: Download the APKs as they are. Do NOT download any newer versions of the APKs. When they are installed and working they will update themselves.)
2. Making sure you have ADB enabled in developer options (settings > device options > tap serial number 7 times then enable ADB in developer options). Plug your tablet into your PC. Place the four APKs into your tablet's internal storage.
3. On your tablet, go to settings > wireless > Connect to Wifi (REMEMBER TO DISABLE OTA UPDATES FIRST! THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT BEFORE CONNECTING TO WIFI!)
4. Then go to settings > wireless > location based services > make sure services are turned ON.
5. Download and install a file manager like Total Commander. In Total Commander, from the home screen, tap on Internal storage. Install the Google APKs by tapping them, IN THIS ORDER SPECIFICALLY:
1. com.google.android.gsf.login_5.1-1743759-22_minAPI21(nodpi)_apkmirror.com.apk
2. com.google.android.gsf_5.1-1743759-22_minAPI22(nodpi)_apkmirror.com.apk
3. com.google.android.gms_11.5.09_(230-164803921)-11509230_minAPI21(armeabi-v7a)(nodpi)_apkmirror.com.apk
4. com.android.vending_8.3.41.U-all_0_FP_170066753-80834100_minAPI14(armeabi-v7a)(240,320,480dpi)_apkmirror.com.apk
6. Once all the APKs are installed, open the Play Store and sign into your account and IMMEDIATELY go to settings and TURN OFF auto-updates then close the Play Store and reboot your tablet. Once rebooted, if needed, the APKs will start to update.
7. When the tablet boots, tap on settings > wireless > location based services. If you followed instructions earlier and toggled this setting on, good job. Now turn it off and wait about 15 seconds and turn it back on.
8. You may get a pop-up window asking you to agree to the use of Google Location Accuracy/Services. YOU MUST TAP AGREE.
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"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
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8. From your home screen, tap the Google Settings icon then Location. You MIGHT get a pop up saying something like: "In a previous version of Google, you turned off location history. Do you want to turn it back on?" YOU MUST TAP YES.
9. Download and install Settings Database Editor. Then open a terminal app, or plug the tablet into the PC and open an ADB window and type the following commands, hitting enter after each one:
Code:
adb shell
su
pm grant by4a.setedit22 android.permission.WRITE_SECURE_SETTINGS
10. Open Settings Database Editor and tap on the drop down menu on the right and select the 'secure' tab. Scroll down until you see 'location_providers_allowed'. The value should say:
Code:
network
11. Tap the 'location_providers_allowed' setting then tap 'edit value' and in front of 'network' add the text 'gps' (without the ') and separate the two with a comma, but no spaces and tap save. The value should now look like this:
Code:
gps,network
12. Reboot. Google location services should now work. Download a weather app like Weather Underground and set the location up for GPS. If it detects location, you're good to go. If not, you missed a step and have to start over.
ALTERNATIVE:
1. Turn off location services.
2. Install Google maps and open it. Or download and install chrome.
3. Maps: A box will pop up asking to enable location services. Tap yes/ok. Chrome: scroll to bottom of page and tap 'update location' or 'use exact/precise location'.
4. Maps: Tap on the blue or gray dot representing your location.
5. Tap on 'pick a place' and pick your location.
I had to do a non-root rewrite after running into some issues. This should work on the HD 8 as well.
Awesome...!
Love your work, long time reader but never really needed to post as I've generally read out of interest and my old trusty Samsung tablet has been serving it's purpose. As my Samsung tablet has now aged and I'm putting it to rest (R.I.P.), I've acquired a few Fire HD 10 tablets (one for me and one each for my parents). Problem is that after installing Google Play, am not able to use it with GPS software (like Sygic). I've tried the process listed here on a fresh tablet and also by reflashing to stock my tablet, but does not seem to get working.
Following your process step-by-step, there is no indication that the Play Store files gets updated and no pop-ups like the ones shown at step 8 and onwards...
Questions:
1. Is there an indicator to show that the Play Store files are being updated?
2. Is the pop-up window (indicated at step 8) always suppose to occur when we complete this step?
3. Do we need to install your APK's for the updated framework and the systemconfig updates from you before this will work?
Finally... Thanks for your great work and you're definitely a very large contributor to this community. Thank you.
niz180sx said:
Awesome...!
Love your work, long time reader but never really needed to post as I've generally read out of interest and my old trusty Samsung tablet has been serving it's purpose. As my Samsung tablet has now aged and I'm putting it to rest (R.I.P.), I've acquired a few Fire HD 10 tablets (one for me and one each for my parents). Problem is that after installing Google Play, am not able to use it with GPS software (like Sygic). I've tried the process listed here on a fresh tablet and also by reflashing to stock my tablet, but does not seem to get working.
Following your process step-by-step, there is no indication that the Play Store files gets updated and no pop-ups like the ones shown at step 8 and onwards...
Questions:
1. Is there an indicator to show that the Play Store files are being updated?
2. Is the pop-up window (indicated at step 8) always suppose to occur when we complete this step?
3. Do we need to install your APK's for the updated framework and the systemconfig updates from you before this will work?
Finally... Thanks for your great work and you're definitely a very large contributor to this community. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. There may not be an indicator.
2. If you turned location services on prior to installing the 4 apks , it should show up every time when you toggle it off then back on. I've done this more times than I care to admit and in each case the fort box pops up every time. The second one may only pop up when you've previously turned off location history. Also make sure to sign into play store wait a few minutes then toggle location off then on. Might need to clear data of 4 apks and try again though. I don't know what Amazon made this such a pain.
.
3. No. This guide it not related to any of my mods and housing need any other special APPs for this particular guide.
Side note: the GPS chip in these devices is not active. It does exist, but according to the .mk file, was deactivated in the kernel. That's why Android OS has AGPS integrated into their framework (in case a device doesn't fully support gps).
Thanks for the reply. Very helpful...
Anyways, I did another reflash to stock and reinstalled the Play Store APK's and monitored the versions. The updates never happened and I tried to force an update by pressing on the version number (in settings) a few times. But after a few hours of still not updating, the Play Store never updates and hence I tried a clear cache and clear data for the Play Store apps. This then actually allowed for the update to progress after logging in again next. Hopefully this helps anyone else that gets stuck with the same.
DragonFire1024 - One more favour, can you try and install Sygic and see if the GPS locks or not? I've tried on the 3 devices here and I'm not sure if I've just done something wrong and hence the GPS is not locking or if Sygic just isn't able to use AGPS as the GPS source and isn't able to lock since the other parts of the GPS modules are not active? Thanks in advance.
Also, if you have any GPS apps that you could recommend with on device maps, that's the only criteria I have left that I need to get working for my parents.
Thanking you.
No Root required now?
DragonFire1024 said:
I had to do a non-root rewrite after running into some issues. This should work on the HD 8 as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, if I understand correctly, we can follow the instructions without a rooted device?
Also, you indicated that we have to start with a fresh install of Fire OS. This is no longer the case with my device, and I'm just trying to fix the location services. I can find instructions on rooting the device (which I don't want to do unless necessary) and I can find copies of the Fire OS images, but I've failed at finding instructions on how to install the stock FireOS image. My device is a Fire HD 8 (2017). If you can point me towards a thread with what I need, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
WCE68 said:
So, if I understand correctly, we can follow the instructions without a rooted device?
Also, you indicated that we have to start with a fresh install of Fire OS. This is no longer the case with my device, and I'm just trying to fix the location services. I can find instructions on rooting the device (which I don't want to do unless necessary) and I can find copies of the Fire OS images, but I've failed at finding instructions on how to install the stock FireOS image. My device is a Fire HD 8 (2017). If you can point me towards a thread with what I need, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot help with location services but as far as I know you CANNOT root an hd8, its not possible with locked bootloader. Only hd10 can gain root, so perhaps the better question is to ask if this can be done on an hd8
WCE68 said:
So, if I understand correctly, we can follow the instructions without a rooted device?
Also, you indicated that we have to start with a fresh install of Fire OS. This is no longer the case with my device, and I'm just trying to fix the location services. I can find instructions on rooting the device (which I don't want to do unless necessary) and I can find copies of the Fire OS images, but I've failed at finding instructions on how to install the stock FireOS image. My device is a Fire HD 8 (2017). If you can point me towards a thread with what I need, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Factory reset for an HD 8 then follow this guide. This should work on all Amazon tablets. I have a Fire 7, HD 8 and 10. Works on all three, rooted or not.
I have a new Fire HD 10 (2017). I installed Google Play Store before seeing this thread. I want to use YoutubeTV but when it launches it says it can't determine my location. Which is what brought me to this thread I have the latest HD 10 OS loaded (5.6.2.0?). If I do a factory reset, will I still have that version and will it work with the process you have? Thanks, Frank
fclifton said:
I have a new Fire HD 10 (2017). I installed Google Play Store before seeing this thread. I want to use YoutubeTV but when it launches it says it can't determine my location. Which is what brought me to this thread I have the latest HD 10 OS loaded (5.6.2.0?). If I do a factory reset, will I still have that version and will it work with the process you have? Thanks, Frank
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you will still have 5.6.2.0. Before a reset, clear the data of and uninstall the 4 APKs then reset. Install the APKs from the guide linked in my OP. Install them as is and do not download the updated versions. Make sure location services are on before installation.
DragonFire1024 said:
Yes you will still have 5.6.2.0. Before a reset, clear the data of and uninstall the 4 APKs then reset. Install the APKs from the guide linked in my OP. Install them as is and do not download the updated versions. Make sure location services are on before installation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I tried to follow your instructions, but I was not able to get Google location services working. At least I don't think so. I never saw any pop ups asking me to agree to the use of Google Location services. It is probably operator error on my part. Here is what I did by the steps you have:
I first cleared data from and uninstalled the 4 APKs. Then I set the tablet back to factory default. I am attempting this without rooting.
1. The thread you linked to said that newer versions of Silk could be used to install the APKs, so I didn't download them to my PC. I used Silk in step 5.
2. I enabled developer options and enabled ADB. Did not move APKs because they are not on my PC as stated in step 1.
3. So here is the first place I wasn't sure exactly what to do. Your instructions are to go to Settings | Wireless | Connect to Wifi. However, since I reset my tablet back to Factory Defaults, the first screen is to set language and then the next is to setup Wifi. I had to connect to Wifi to proceed, so I did. The next screen says it found like 11 system updates. Wasn't sure what to do with them, so I let them be installed. The next screen wanted me to register, so I did that. The next screen has to do with restoring a backup which I skipped. The next screen has 4 options, one of which is Enable Location Services. I unchecked that (but checked it again later in Step 4). The next two screens had to do with suggested apps which I skipped. The one after that introduces Show Mode, a demo that I had to let run. After that is a Fire tutorial which I skipped. Next was an intro to Alexa hands free, which I was not able to skip.. I allowed Alexa hands free. Finally after all that I was at the home desktop screen! From there I launched the Appstore app and disabled automatic updates. Whew! And not exactly what was in your Step 3.
4. Did Settings | Wireless | Location based services and enabled it
5. Used Silk to download and install each APK in the order listed. (Downloaded one, installed, went to the next)
6. Launched Play Store, which did start ok, and after signing in turned off automatic updates. Could not tell if the 4 APKs updated.
7. Did Settings | Wireless | Location based services disabled it, counted to 20 and enabled it.
No pop up
8. From Home Screen launched Google Settings. One time I got the pop up. Another time I did not.
At this point I installed Youtube TV and it still said unable to determine location. Other apps like weather and maps did find my location so I assume some kind of location services is running. I disabled location services for weather, then launched weather again and got a dialog saying it needed location services. It did not look like the Google popup so I guess it was still the Amazon service.
So, my experience didn't quite match up with your instructions. I can see in a couple places where I could make it match more closely, but there were a lot of things in Step 3 that I wasn't clear about. Any ideas?
Thanks, Frank
fclifton said:
I have a new Fire HD 10 (2017). I installed Google Play Store before seeing this thread. I want to use YoutubeTV but when it launches it says it can't determine my location. Which is what brought me to this thread I have the latest HD 10 OS loaded (5.6.2.0?). If I do a factory reset, will I still have that version and will it work with the process you have? Thanks, Frank
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you able to have luck with this for Youtube TV?
I'm still unable to get past the location prompt.
DragonFire1024 said:
Yes you will still have 5.6.2.0. Before a reset, clear the data of and uninstall the 4 APKs then reset. Install the APKs from the guide linked in my OP. Install them as is and do not download the updated versions. Make sure location services are on before installation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worked for getting my location on other apps. Thanks
pc747 said:
Were you able to have luck with this for Youtube TV?
I'm still unable to get past the location prompt.
Worked for getting my location on other apps. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I don't have YouTube Tv working yet. I haven't given up on it yet.
I also got some other apps to work, but I think they were using Amazon location services, not Google.
Must be off and on
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Youtube TV is working for now for me. But I am betting it is going to be inconsistent.
fclifton said:
I have a new Fire HD 10 (2017). I installed Google Play Store before seeing this thread. I want to use YoutubeTV but when it launches it says it can't determine my location. Which is what brought me to this thread I have the latest HD 10 OS loaded (5.6.2.0?). If I do a factory reset, will I still have that version and will it work with the process you have? Thanks, Frank
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also just got a Fire HD 10 and installed the 4 google apks before seeing this thread. I'm also not rooted. However, all I needed to do to get GPS to work was to turn the Fire OS Location Based Services toggle off. (Settings-Wireless-Location Based Services). Upon opening Google Maps it asked me to use GPS and it just worked.
DoughMucker said:
I also just got a Fire HD 10 and installed the 4 google apks before seeing this thread. I'm also not rooted. However, all I needed to do to get GPS to work was to turn the Fire OS Location Based Services toggle off. (Settings-Wireless-Location Based Services). Upon opening Google Maps it asked me to use GPS and it just worked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes! Did the same and now it appears that Google location is being used. Thanks!
Reset my Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 back to factory and rooted it without any issues following this offline root method.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/hd-10-2017-offline-rooting-t3734860
Disabled OTA using commands from here.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd...7-fire-os-5-6-uninstall-t3709437/post77437463
All the files downloaded and installed from internal storage.
6, 7, 8(part 1) executed as per instructions.
8(part 2) didnt get asked.
Everything went real smooth so no issues to report. My Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 fully compatible with all of it
How do I know OTA really disabled?
How do I know the 4 apk are updating and when they are done updating or it doesnt matter if I evoke an error trying to open Playstore?
@DragonFire1024 your work help and support is truly appreciated.
MutantWizard said:
Reset my Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 back to factory and rooted it without any issues following this offline root method.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/hd-10-2017-offline-rooting-t3734860
Disabled OTA using commands from here.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd...7-fire-os-5-6-uninstall-t3709437/post77437463
All the files downloaded and installed from internal storage.
6, 7, 8(part 1) executed as per instructions.
8(part 2) didnt get asked.
Everything went real smooth so no issues to report. My Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 fully compatible with all of it
How do I know OTA really disabled?
How do I know the 4 apk are updating and when they are done updating or it doesnt matter if I evoke an error trying to open Playstore?
@DragonFire1024 your work help and support is truly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll get an error or force close as the apks update. Check apk mirror for the latest versions. Play store is 11.6.18. I'll enable my OTA apk later and grab a screen shot for everyone to see. It's very fast and will start downloading the second it's activated and WiFi is on. It's the only apk responsible for downloading and installing system updates sent by Amazon only.
MutantWizard said:
Reset my Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 back to factory and rooted it without any issues following this offline root method.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/hd-10-2017-offline-rooting-t3734860
Disabled OTA using commands from here.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd...7-fire-os-5-6-uninstall-t3709437/post77437463
All the files downloaded and installed from internal storage.
6, 7, 8(part 1) executed as per instructions.
8(part 2) didnt get asked.
Everything went real smooth so no issues to report. My Fire HD 10 (7th generation) 5.6.2.0 fully compatible with all of it
How do I know OTA really disabled?
How do I know the 4 apk are updating and when they are done updating or it doesnt matter if I evoke an error trying to open Playstore?
@DragonFire1024 your work help and support is truly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here you go. Luckily I was able to circumvent the update before anything could install.
I was not planning to root my Fire HD 10 (7the generation) OS 5.6.2.0 so I got the 4 google account files set up as per instructions. Worked perfect. Then I installed Nova Launcher and had to add Launcher Hijack to make it stick. All worked great except no widget support. Solved that with some ADB commands also found here on XDA.
Now I discovered same as others that my location services do not work but could not find a way to make it work without undoing all I did, rooting it and then doing it all again with root. Can I avoid rooting and redoing it with any fix on top of what I already done?
MutantWizard said:
I was not planning to root my Fire HD 10 (7the generation) OS 5.6.2.0 so I got the 4 google account files set up as per instructions. Worked perfect. Then I installed Nova Launcher and had to add Launcher Hijack to make it stick. All worked great except no widget support. Solved that with some ADB commands also found here on XDA.
Now I discovered same as others that my location services do not work but could not find a way to make it work without undoing all I did, rooting it and then doing it all again with root. Can I avoid rooting and redoing it with any fix on top of what I already done?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This has worked consistently through numerous resets. This hasn't failed me yet. The key is to make sure location services are turned on before installing any Google apps or deleting bloatware. See here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/help/fix-how-to-google-location-services-t3813111
DragonFire1024 said:
This has worked consistently through numerous resets. This hasn't failed me yet. The key is to make sure location services are turned on before installing any Google apps or deleting bloatware. See here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/help/fix-how-to-google-location-services-t3813111
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response!
I saw this before but was not sure I wanted to go down that road. Well I decided and here I go. I intend to try the following root process. Please let me know if any other preferred method is likely to be more reliable.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/hd-10-2017-offline-rooting-t3734860
Its done and working!