So, I recently picked up a 64GB Fire phone in the latest fire sale on amazon.co.uk.
As such, I thought it might be useful to provide a very short "quick start" guide on the steps I took to get the phone unlocked and "Google'd up".
So, as soon as I got the phone, I contacted Amazon through the online chat system and asked for help to unlock the phone.
I was transfered straight away to someone else who took the serial number (found in Settings > Device >Get info about your Fire) or search and type in serial number and use that shortcut.
I was then able to put in a Three SIM and get the phone working with that straight away.
Next I ran the updates through the phone Settings > Device > Install System Updates, this found the 4.6.1 3320 update (not sure if you could skip this step). I ran this and then the updates to the various apps.
I then downloaded the 3820 download from http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201607550, Fire phone (Unlocked GSM) link. I found I had to download this on PC as it kept timing out on the device itself.
I copied this from the PC to the downloads folder on the device and went to install system updates again in settings. It picked up the file as a system update and installed straight from the device (no need to ADB or whatever).
Now I was on 3820, I downloaded ES File explorer from the Amazon App store.
I then downloaded the files from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/fire-phone-how-to-install-google-play-t2977237 and followed the instructions there for installing the Google Apps.
As I personally like and use Google's apps I was a lot more comfortable replacing the stock launcher with the Google Now launcher, replacing the keyboard with Google's version and Chrome for Silk etc.
And that was me, running the latest version, device unlocked, Google Apps working nicely Play Store and even connecting to my G-Watch R.
Got to say once I done the above, I am more than happy and at under £100 for a 64GB phone, I am even more over the moon. Once you replace the bulk of the Amazon "guff", I think the phone is more than useable and I think if it shipped in this state and at a decent price, it would have been a much bigger hit, but hey-ho, bargain for us now!
Hope the above is of some help to someone. Cheers.
While I welcome enthusiasm and sharing of knowledge, I can't help feel if your going all out Google there are better phones for the money or at least phones that will prove less problematic for you in the long run. I'm using this as my second phone because as a prime member I get free books etc.
Hi, can't agree more. I fully accept that getting the Play services on here is something of a fudge and something which no doubt could break at any time.
I probably like you bought this as a back-up device and something which failing all else I could use as a sort of media player for Amazon's services. I have managed to accumulate a lot of games for free through the regular free games/credits, so that helps.
Not in any way trying to knock Amazon, however the app store situation is pretty poor. As it is, without the Play store, I don't think I could really recommend this phone, but I do think it is a great bargain, nothing else for me comes close to the specs or build quality for similar money to what we paid.
As I say, just wanted to help anyone out who might have been in a similar situation and picked one of these up "on a punt".
Hi dampchimp,
I planning to order a fire phone but I can't use the O² network. Was the unlocking process so simple. I read earlier that many have problems with both amazon and O² to unlock their phones.
I can't see a 64GB but only 32 on amazon.co.uk
Thank you!
You can get an unlock code very easily via email these days.
ratbags said:
You can get an unlock code very easily via email these days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, for me anyway, I just done a web chat and got one in 2 minutes, obviously no guarantee, but seems like they just don't care any more.
Strangely, I put the code in and got a message along the lines of "unlock failed" but it worked anyway.
Hey I am planning to buy Fire phone
dampchimp said:
So, I recently picked up a 64GB Fire phone in the latest fire sale on amazon.co.uk.
As such, I thought it might be useful to provide a very short "quick start" guide on the steps I took to get the phone unlocked and "Google'd up".
So, as soon as I got the phone, I contacted Amazon through the online chat system and asked for help to unlock the phone.
I was transfered straight away to someone else who took the serial number (found in Settings > Device >Get info about your Fire) or search and type in serial number and use that shortcut.
I was then able to put in a Three SIM and get the phone working with that straight away.
Next I ran the updates through the phone Settings > Device > Install System Updates, this found the 4.6.1 3320 update (not sure if you could skip this step). I ran this and then the updates to the various apps.
I then downloaded the 3820 download from http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201607550, Fire phone (Unlocked GSM) link. I found I had to download this on PC as it kept timing out on the device itself.
I copied this from the PC to the downloads folder on the device and went to install system updates again in settings. It picked up the file as a system update and installed straight from the device (no need to ADB or whatever).
Now I was on 3820, I downloaded ES File explorer from the Amazon App store.
I then downloaded the files from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/fire-phone-how-to-install-google-play-t2977237 and followed the instructions there for installing the Google Apps.
As I personally like and use Google's apps I was a lot more comfortable replacing the stock launcher with the Google Now launcher, replacing the keyboard with Google's version and Chrome for Silk etc.
And that was me, running the latest version, device unlocked, Google Apps working nicely Play Store and even connecting to my G-Watch R.
Got to say once I done the above, I am more than happy and at under £100 for a 64GB phone, I am even more over the moon. Once you replace the bulk of the Amazon "guff", I think the phone is more than useable and I think if it shipped in this state and at a decent price, it would have been a much bigger hit, but hey-ho, bargain for us now!
Hope the above is of some help to someone. Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey I am planning to buy Fire phone, but I am skeptic about side loading Google play store... as you are actually using it.. can you shed some light ? I have some quick questions like
1) Are all Google store apps working did you face any problem while using them.
2) I heard that the phone is slow when used with Google apps.
3) As an honest reviewer and taking into account as an heavy mobile user who plays around with apps how likely is it buy this phone.
Thanks in advance...
I'm looking at the deal on this phone today in the US also - $159 for the phone with a year of Amazon Prime so $60 for this phone a backup if anything happens to my current Xperia Z1.
I think for $60 it's a great deal but not also not sure of the functionality of it with Google apps. That'd be key for me.
Suggestions?
Absolutely no problems with Google play etc and I've been using for a month or so. Follow the various guides on this forum like I did and you'll be ok. Phone isn't any slower since I deployed gapps.
And if you don't want to bother with FireOS shenanigans, you can switch to CM11 and make it a normal Android phone. Don't get me wrong, FireOS is pretty stable even after sideloading Google services and stuff, but why bothering to Google up a heavily modified OS when you can just get the real stuff
At the price Amazon is selling it, it's a steal.
sergio687 said:
And if you don't want to bother with FireOS shenanigans, you can switch to CM11 and make it a normal Android phone. Don't get me wrong, FireOS is pretty stable even after sideloading Google services and stuff, but why bothering to Google up a heavily modified OS when you can just get the real stuff
At the price Amazon is selling it, it's a steal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes but don't you need older firmware? I ordered one tonight that I expect to be running a unrootable firmware. I'm hoping to root before updating by blocking domains then registering and rooting quick. Of course if its running the latest that doesn't matter. Or can I root this?
No, the latest FireOS is rooted in less than 1 minute with KINGROOT 4.1 (⇐ download links and explanation included, READ it...)
Registering? You want to keep using FireOS? Meh, you can do it, until CM11 reaches gold status. ^^
Bingo Bronson said:
No, the latest FireOS is rooted in less than 1 minute with KINGROOT 4.1 (⇐ download links and explanation included, READ it...)
Registering? You want to keep using FireOS? Meh, you can do it, until CM11 reaches gold status. ^^
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. Kingroot it (just to have it rooted and flash ROMs), flash CM11 and enjoy a phone with great specs and a great price, and a year of Amazon Prime. Heck, you can even download the Amazon Appstore after you have de-Amazon'ed it and continue to enjoy the free app of the day and all that stuff.
Bingo Bronson said:
No, the latest FireOS is rooted in less than 1 minute with KINGROOT 4.1 (⇐ download links and explanation included, READ it...)
Registering? You want to keep using FireOS? Meh, you can do it, until CM11 reaches gold status. ^^
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only reason I didn't wait for this is fear that Amazon would patch the exploit via an update.
Sent from my Fire Phone using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Does running CM11 solve the various notification issues? For example do top taskbar notifications and icon notifications work?
JetFan said:
Does running CM11 solve the various notification issues? For example do top taskbar notifications and icon notifications work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes
Sent from my Fire Phone using the XDA premium app.
Thanks
arunhtc said:
Hey I am planning to buy Fire phone, but I am skeptic about side loading Google play store... as you are actually using it.. can you shed some light ? I have some quick questions like
1) Are all Google store apps working did you face any problem while using them.
2) I heard that the phone is slow when used with Google apps.
3) As an honest reviewer and taking into account as an heavy mobile user who plays around with apps how likely is it buy this phone.
Thanks in advance...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the unlocked US version on Black Friday, sideloaded Google apps and activated on Net10 early December. Google Play Store tells you if an app is incompatible, I have sideloaded most of those from 1Mobile. That only works for free apps, so far I only have one paid app that I can't use (local commuter train).
Can't compare speed, didn't use it before sideloading Google but it seems pretty zippy to me.
Main problem will probably be Lollipop-only apps. I've run across a few incompatible apps, but nothing crucial yet. Looks like I have 123 apps in my grid, most from either Amazon or Google.
I'm using this as my main phone.
Okay thanks for info ...
Sent from my SD4930UR using Tapatalk
Related
I'm rooted, running CM7. Thing is, there are some "Kindle Fire Edition" games I'd like to get via the Amazon Appstore, but my CM7 Fire is listed as not compatible with those games, in the appstore. A few people mentioned that a certain file would have to be changed, but I'm not quite tech-savvy enough to know where this file is, how to change it, what to change it to, etc.
Would anyone happen to have step-by-step instructions as to how to do this?
mrw1215 said:
I'm rooted, running CM7. Thing is, there are some "Kindle Fire Edition" games I'd like to get via the Amazon Appstore, but my CM7 Fire is listed as not compatible with those games, in the appstore. A few people mentioned that a certain file would have to be changed, but I'm not quite tech-savvy enough to know where this file is, how to change it, what to change it to, etc.
Would anyone happen to have step-by-step instructions as to how to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You just have to change the build.prop back to the one in the fire os.
Sent from my myTouch_4G_Slide using XDA App
Not sure how to do that, though.
mrw1215 said:
I'm rooted, running CM7. Thing is, there are some "Kindle Fire Edition" games I'd like to get via the Amazon Appstore, but my CM7 Fire is listed as not compatible with those games, in the appstore. A few people mentioned that a certain file would have to be changed, but I'm not quite tech-savvy enough to know where this file is, how to change it, what to change it to, etc.
Would anyone happen to have step-by-step instructions as to how to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try to just download the apk from somewhere and sideload it. Assuming its free of course.
I haven't messed with putting build.prop back to stock, but what I ended up doing was backing up my stuff temporarily, flashing 6.2.1 back to it, root and add TiBackup. Then back up the KF Edition stuff I own (Sim City Deluxe and Angry Birds), restore to CM7, and then restore the backed up apps. Worked a peach for both of those.
It's pretty gross that any app store would let you purchase things and then lock you out of downloading them. (happened to me as well and it's why I don't use the Amazon store outside of the free daily stuff)
Aahz Pervect said:
It's pretty gross that any app store would let you purchase things and then lock you out of downloading them. (happened to me as well and it's why I don't use the Amazon store outside of the free daily stuff)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, they're apps for one particular hardware/software combination, and when something changes you're suddenly not compatible anymore. I get it, they're meant to be exclusive to the Kindle Fire, it just kinda bites that it can tell it's a KF (because it lumps it together in the "manage my kindle" area) but they won't enable the download that way.
I understand the why as it reduces average user confusion but once I've paid for an Android app then I expect for that app to be available on every Android device that I connect on.
Whether it works or not is my burden to deal with not their's to dictate. (not like this is unique to the Amazon app store but still Android is Android is Android and, in this case, the hardware is exactly the same...they just don't like it that we ditched their limited version )
I'm not really that upset but I'm certainly not going to purchase any more apps from them.
You can easily change your make/manufacter and the rest of the build.prop settings with the IMEI program that I created a tutorial for here. I'm not exactly sure what it needs changed to, however. I'll figure it out and update my FAQ.
So apparently the fire phone sales are a bust, what are the chances that amazon will do a firesale? like $200 for it but unlocked and without a plan?
Already happened!
MGREX said:
So apparently the fire phone sales are a bust, what are the chances that amazon will do a firesale? like $200 for it but unlocked and without a plan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's happened! $200 off so now it's actually a great value since you also get the free year of prime
Grizzlax said:
It's happened! $200 off so now it's actually a great value since you also get the free year of prime
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Meh still $450 without a plan (which methinks its not really unlocked).
For that price I rather wait for Shamu
The Fire Phone Fire Sale is Here
You can buy a Fire Phone unlocked with a free year of Prime for $200 right now. There is also no limit to the number of free years of Prime that you can redeem. Redemption unfortunately requires you to register the device to the account that you want to receive the free year. I wonder if this will end up being like the HP Touchpad. The hardware is really impressive for such a low price. Get a good Android ROM on there and this would be the best deal around for phone with these specs or similar.
YeeHawGandalf said:
You can buy a Fire Phone unlocked with a free year of Prime for $200 right now. There is also no limit to the number of free years of Prime that you can redeem. Redemption unfortunately requires you to register the device to the account that you want to receive the free year. I wonder if this will end up being like the HP Touchpad. The hardware is really impressive for such a low price. Get a good Android ROM on there and this would be the best deal around for phone with these specs or similar.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My prime membership was up for renewal on DEC 3rd ...I jumped on this for what would be $99, Use your Discover Card and get 5% cash back (almost covered the Tax). If your planing on renewing your Prime membership soon this is a great deal.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OC0USA6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Without the play store it isn't even worth that. Still no bootloader Unlock means this is and always will be DOA.
Poke_N_PDA said:
Without the play store it isn't even worth that. Still no bootloader Unlock means this is and always will be DOA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/guide-make-fireos-looks-feel-normal-t2898921
clsA said:
My prime membership was up for renewal on DEC 3rd ...I jumped on this for what would be $99, Use your Discover Card and get 5% cash back (almost covered the Tax). If your planing on renewing your Prime membership soon this is a great deal.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OC0USA6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I jumped on it as well. I used my Chase card and basically got the phone or Prime for free. I'll take that any day since I was going to renew for school anyway. Now it gives me a chance to try the phone workout losing money.
Bought unlocked $199 firephone - got Play store without rooting
I have Amazon Prime, which needed to be extended, so instead I bought the unlocked phone with free same day in the Phoenix area yesterday. got my phone last evening (11/26). After unboxing, I didn't want to root it, so I followed the kindle fire forums to install (sideload) google play.
and Voila I have Google services, Play store, Gmail, youtube, maps, drive and Google now launcher -
Without rooting and without any problems - Just follow the steps on the kindle forum or how-to-install-google-play-on-kindle-fire - on epubor site / gizmag
Guide 1: http://www.epubor.com/how-to-install-google-play-on-kindle-fire.html
Guide 2: http://www.gizmag.com/how-to-install-google-apps-kindle-fire-hd-hdx/30736/
First and foremost - don't upgrade/downgrade the OS (I got the phone with Fire 3.6.8 - which corresponds to Jellybean)
Make sure the Play store version matches the Kernel version for the Jellybean 4.2.2 - remaining services can be latest I think
Temporarily Disable 2 factor authentication on Google login via browser (where Google asks you your phone etc)
Steps:
1) Enable Non Amazon app installation from Settings -> Applications
2) Install ES2 file explorer or any file viewer from Amazon App store (you can also install some batch APK installer apps)
3) Copy the Apks from the link above (see my attachment)
------ Google Service Framework
------ Google Login Service
------ Google Play Service
------ Google Play Store
(Skip Vending .apk as it has been superseded by play store)
4) Reboot after each apk above - allow Fire OS to acknowledge google login if prompted
5) You should see Google Play properly logged in to your google account - install gmail, youtube, drive, google search etc.
(Optional) If you hate the Amazon Carousel, Install Google Now launcher) - See last screenshot. There is another forum post where you can upgrade the carousel icons on sideloaded apps so that they appear large.
Once you have Googlify or Androidify the Fire phone, it actually runs pretty nice.
Fire Phone shortcuts:
Android Back button -> Swipe anywhere from bottom edge of visible screen
Android Home Button -> Single press main button
Android Task Switch -> Double press main button (I miss the close all apps shortcut here)
Voice Search -> long press main button (I wish this could be made to Google Voice search in 1 step)
Device Search -> Swipe down and use the search icon there
Android Menu -> Swipe from Left edge (in supported apps)
I ran Antutu benchmark and the phone performs pretty decently - compares to 1st gen Moto X, Nexus 5, HTC one M7, Galaxy S4.
For $199 unlocked this is unbeatable for a decent android phone - with 1 year prime.
Attached: ANTUTU benchmark shows this phone better than Galaxy S4 but not as good as S5/HTC
I have AT&T so I will be getting my free upgrade next spring, which I can sell unopened for 600$ keeping this fire phone.
Took me 30 minutes to get Google Play no need of rooting
Poke_N_PDA said:
Without the play store it isn't even worth that. Still no bootloader Unlock means this is and always will be DOA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my post in the subsection - You only need to sideload google play store, google login framework and match the version of the Fireos to the android kernel version and download the matching play store - 4 apks and one setting change to get Play store. Pretty slick for $199 IMHO.
Yeah but you have an black background...
Framework working well?
Aztecwarrior25 said:
See my post in the subsection - You only need to sideload google play store, google login framework and match the version of the Fireos to the android kernel version and download the matching play store - 4 apks and one setting change to get Play store. Pretty slick for $199 IMHO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please try to download anything from PlayStore. Thank you.
Pretty sure it doesn't works.
ONYXis said:
Please try to download anything from PlayStore. Thank you.
Pretty sure it doesn't works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Works fine for me. I'm using all the google apps. The Google now launcher was kinda wonky so I'm sticking with the fire OS launcher with the Google apps installed.
MGREX said:
So apparently the fire phone sales are a bust, what are the chances that amazon will do a firesale? like $200 for it but unlocked and without a plan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Obviously that's exactly what they did (how very prescient of you).
That said, with such a severely locked down OS (can't even get Google Maps), I don't think it's worth the price. Maybe if someone figures out how to root it and install Cyanogenmod it'd be a good deal. My Kindle Fire was basically useless until I got a proper Android OS on it. Now it's a very decent tablet.
B1ackByte said:
Yeah but you have an black background...
Framework working well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, framework is fine, all apps work except for the labels on Google maps (somehow the hardware rendering on the firephone is incapabale of aggregating the labels of streetnames and city names in google maps)
I am debugging that now ... I have black background if I use Google now launcher that is another issue which I dont care about.
So far the phone seems fine - it is running the early Jelly bean (4.2.2 version kernel) which isnt bad but not great. I will try to get custom bootloader next - didnt have time on long weekend as I was on call for work - AMZN
Followed the steps, and now i have google play store working on Fire phone. Thanks so much.
Now waiting for root, & custom rom.
Aztecwarrior25 said:
Yeah, framework is fine, all apps work except for the labels on Google maps (somehow the hardware rendering on the firephone is incapabale of aggregating the labels of streetnames and city names in google maps)
I am debugging that now ... I have black background if I use Google now launcher that is another issue which I dont care about.
So far the phone seems fine - it is running the early Jelly bean (4.2.2 version kernel) which isnt bad but not great. I will try to get custom bootloader next - didnt have time on long weekend as I was on call for work - AMZN
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you achieve some progress. Bootloader is currently the main thing stopping Fire Phone custom roms and such. Its locked down tight, and we either need to find an exploit for it, or somehow replace it entirely, but that sounds just as difficult to do as exploiting it.
How to change the Launcher
Hi,
This works great.
Can you please explain me how to change the default launcher?
Thanks
Aztecwarrior25 said:
I have Amazon Prime, which needed to be extended, so instead I bought the unlocked phone with free same day in the Phoenix area yesterday. got my phone last evening (11/26). After unboxing, I didn't want to root it, so I followed the kindle fire forums to install (sideload) google play.
and Voila I have Google services, Play store, Gmail, youtube, maps, drive and Google now launcher -
Without rooting and without any problems - Just follow the steps on the kindle forum or how-to-install-google-play-on-kindle-fire - on epubor site
Make sure the Play store version matches the Kernel version for the Jellybean 4.2.2 - remaining services can be latest I think
Steps:
1) Enable Non Amazon app installation from Settings -> Applications
2) Install ES2 file explorer or any file viewer from Amazon App store (you can also install some batch APK installer apps)
3) Copy the Apks from the link above (see my attachment)
------ Google Service Framework
------ Google Login Service
------ Google Play Service
------ Google Play Store
5) Reboot after each apk above - allow Fire OS to acknowledge google login if prompted
6) You should see Google Play properly logged in to your google account - install gmail, youtube, drive, google search etc.
Optional) If you hate the Amazon Carousel, Install Google Now launcher) - See last screenshot
Once you have Googlify or Androidify the Fire phone, it actually runs pretty nice.
I ran Antutu benchmark and the phone performs pretty decently - compares to 1st gen Moto X, Nexus 5, HTC one M7, Galaxy S4.
For 199 unlocked this is unbeatable for a decent android phone.
I have AT&T so will be getting my free upgrade next spring, which I can sell unopened for 600$ keeping this fire phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you upload the apks!?!??!
Aztecwarrior25 said:
I have Amazon Prime, which needed to be extended, so instead I bought the unlocked phone with free same day in the Phoenix area yesterday. got my phone last evening (11/26). After unboxing, I didn't want to root it, so I followed the kindle fire forums to install (sideload) google play.
and Voila I have Google services, Play store, Gmail, youtube, maps, drive and Google now launcher -
Without rooting and without any problems - Just follow the steps on the kindle forum or how-to-install-google-play-on-kindle-fire - on epubor site
Make sure the Play store version matches the Kernel version for the Jellybean 4.2.2 - remaining services can be latest I think
Steps:
1) Enable Non Amazon app installation from Settings -> Applications
2) Install ES2 file explorer or any file viewer from Amazon App store (you can also install some batch APK installer apps)
3) Copy the Apks from the link above (see my attachment)
------ Google Service Framework
------ Google Login Service
------ Google Play Service
------ Google Play Store
5) Reboot after each apk above - allow Fire OS to acknowledge google login if prompted
6) You should see Google Play properly logged in to your google account - install gmail, youtube, drive, google search etc.
Optional) If you hate the Amazon Carousel, Install Google Now launcher) - See last screenshot
Once you have Googlify or Androidify the Fire phone, it actually runs pretty nice.
I ran Antutu benchmark and the phone performs pretty decently - compares to 1st gen Moto X, Nexus 5, HTC one M7, Galaxy S4.
For 199 unlocked this is unbeatable for a decent android phone.
I have AT&T so will be getting my free upgrade next spring, which I can sell unopened for 600$ keeping this fire phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
adityagadre said:
Hi,
This works great.
Can you please explain me how to change the default launcher?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Download Google Now (or any other launcher) - Complete installation from app store - Then Press the home button (bottom main button) - you should see complete action using - popup with Fire and new launcher as 2 options.
Then choose new launcher and choose always option. To undo the new launcher - uninstall the custom launcher and the homebutton will automatically revert to default fire launcher
Hi all.
I've gone through the regular build of my firetv. I usually let aptoide update all the apps automatically, however After the update (im not sure) the firetv is behaving with the following issues.
1. I cannot click on any of the apps from the recent or home screen.
2. I have to select the apps on the manage installed apps page.
3. The apps location looks different and has kodi in it. that shouldn't be the case as kodi is not an amazon sanctioned app.
Is there a utility that got installed?
really really appreciate your help. please see the screen shot
navigates said:
Hi all.
I've gone through the regular build of my firetv. I usually let aptoide update all the apps automatically, however After the update (im not sure) the firetv is behaving with the following issues.
1. I cannot click on any of the apps from the recent or home screen.
2. I have to select the apps on the manage installed apps page.
3. The apps location looks different and has kodi in it. that shouldn't be the case as kodi is not an amazon sanctioned app.
Is there a utility that got installed?
really really appreciate your help. please see the screen shot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for rbox's recovery, I recovered by cleaning all data and back from scratch with keeping my root. I still am curious. how did this anomy happy. I believe aptoid updated some foundation libraries and my firetv was set to install from unknown sources.
It looks to me like the stock amazon app store was installed. Just a guess
collindv said:
It looks to me like the stock amazon app store was installed. Just a guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? Don't know what is a stock amazon app store. I did the recovery and got back to where it should be. Had to redo all apps again but that is a smaller task. The only change I had done was to let aptoide update all updates which I usually don't let aptoide take over. it also updated supersu etc.
navigates said:
Really? Don't know what is a stock amazon app store. I did the recovery and got back to where it should be. Had to redo all apps again but that is a smaller task. The only change I had done was to let aptoide update all updates which I usually don't let aptoide take over. it also updated supersu etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app store was installed. Do not update all appps with any third party app store. Aptoide always has an update for the amazon app store and if you update it, it installs the actual app store. Pay attention to what apps you are updating and what the version number is, cause sometimes the apps are actually downgraded with third party app stores. I update all apps one at a time with third party app stores, and I check to make sure that the app is the right version by checking it in the google play store first. There are also a lot of fake apps on third party app stores. Lets say you have version 1.2 installed and the updated version is actually 1.3, third party app stores may say the version is 1.4 or 1.5, and that always means the app is fake. So basically, never batch update/auto update with third party app stores, and always check the version number and you will be fine. If the version number does not match, do not update, and if you do not want your apps displayed like an app drawer on the fire TV then never update the amazon app store. BTW, if you accidentally install the amazon app store again, simply uninstall and reboot and it will go back to normal.
porkenhimer said:
The app store was installed. Do not update all appps with any third party app store. Aptoide always has an update for the amazon app store and if you update it, it installs the actual app store. Pay attention to what apps you are updating and what the version number is, cause sometimes the apps are actually downgraded with third party app stores. I update all apps one at a time with third party app stores, and I check to make sure that the app is the right version by checking it in the google play store first. There are also a lot of fake apps on third party app stores. Lets say you have version 1.2 installed and the updated version is actually 1.3, third party app stores may say the version is 1.4 or 1.5, and that always means the app is fake. So basically, never batch update/auto update with third party app stores, and always check the version number and you will be fine. If the version number does not match, do not update, and if you do not want your apps displayed like an app drawer on the fire TV then never update the amazon app store. BTW, if you accidentally install the amazon app store again, simply uninstall and reboot and it will go back to normal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I knew this earlier would have saved me loads of time redoing the box again, but that too is no biggie as most of my build is automated through batch files. I didn’t know there is an app store. I’ll be careful. I too typically don’t update all but do it one at a time. The good tip is to check the version number before updating which I will. I’m contemplating getting another rooted one for my self as a backup as those are getting hard to find and my local best buy has a few on hand.
navigates said:
I wish I knew this earlier would have saved me loads of time redoing the box again, but that too is no biggie as most of my build is automated through batch files. I didn’t know there is an app store. I’ll be careful. I too typically don’t update all but do it one at a time. The good tip is to check the version number before updating which I will. I’m contemplating getting another rooted one for my self as a backup as those are getting hard to find and my local best buy has a few on hand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if they are not rootable, they are still worth the money. The only advantages I really see in rooting is having the play store, default lanchers and external drive support. I could care less about a launcher on the fire TV, cause none of them function correctly anyway, and not having the play store is even less of a care for me, cause I have all the apps I need or want without it. External drive support would be nice, but I am pretty sure it will come in a future update from amazon so no big deal. I guess I can say my only gripe about the Fire TV is that it does not support a lot of apps that are sideloaded, but that is not amazons fault and every device doesn't support all apps.
porkenhimer said:
Even if they are not rootable, they are still worth the money. The only advantages I really see in rooting is having the play store, default lanchers and external drive support. I could care less about a launcher on the fire TV, cause none of them function correctly anyway, and not having the play store is even less of a care for me, cause I have all the apps I need or want without it. External drive support would be nice, but I am pretty sure it will come in a future update from amazon so no big deal. I guess I can say my only gripe about the Fire TV is that it does not support a lot of apps that are sideloaded, but that is not amazons fault and every device doesn't support all apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. At the moment, the benefits of rooting is not outweighed at the moment, however, the custom rom is around the horizon. I specifically like the suspend feature on kodi. Another rooted feature I like is quicksupport/teamviewer, so I can help my family incase they need help. I may drive down to bestbuy on my way in and pick up one of the rootable units and keep it on the side for future need or family need.
Or should I get the nexus player.
navigates said:
Agreed. At the moment, the benefits of rooting is not outweighed at the moment, however, the custom rom is around the horizon. I specifically like the suspend feature on kodi. Another rooted feature I like is quicksupport/teamviewer, so I can help my family incase they need help. I may drive down to bestbuy on my way in and pick up one of the rootable units and keep it on the side for future need or family need.
Or should I get the nexus player.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should get the device you like. If you already know the Fire TV is good for you then why not get another? If you wanna different experience get the Nexus Player or another device of your choosing. Its all subjective, and no one can really answer that for you. Just my opinion, you will be hard pressed to find another android box that can compete with the Fire TV. There are a lot of devices that have great specs that do not compare to the Fire TV, even without root. There is a reason why there are thousands off videos comparing the Fire TV to the Roku and Apple TV, cause its is the top Android box, period.
porkenhimer said:
You should get the device you like. If you already know the Fire TV is good for you then why not get another? If you wanna different experience get the Nexus Player or another device of your choosing. Its all subjective, and no one can really answer that for you. Just my opinion, you will be hard pressed to find another android box that can compete with the Fire TV. There are a lot of devices that have great specs that do not compare to the Fire TV, even without root. There is a reason why there are thousands off videos comparing the Fire TV to the Roku and Apple TV, cause its is the top Android box, period.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. I've gotten myself another box as the serial number was in the series 3 and I would like to keep it rooted. I'm confident a custom rom is around the corner. So far I've given the firetv to my parents, inlaws, brother in law, 3 cousins and loads of friends. They all are super excited about it. the downside is that I'm getting tired of building one for friends as when people ask, they don't realize the effort that is put into building one, specially for rooting. I feel if building one, give the full honesty and build a good one/rooted as you never know what new is around the horizon.
Yes its stock amazon app store, i made the same mistake when apiode updated the amazon store for me. All you have to do is uninstall it.
go to settings apps click on amazon app store and clear data and cash uninstall then reboot.
i like many other bought this on sale day under the assumption that i would be able to get google play store and services on.
this however doesnt look the case as we are on 3.6.6
does this look like we are doomed forever without it
any help to myself and others would be most grateful
thanks in advance
goldenbolux said:
i like many other bought this on sale day under the assumption that i would be able to get google play store and services on.
this however doesnt look the case as we are on 3.6.6
does this look like we are doomed forever without it
any help to myself and others would be most grateful
thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, we are stuck. I installed 3.5 AT&T but doesn´t work either. The only thing I could get is Swiftkey
I've been able to successfully install Google play services, account manager and the services framework previously. Managed to get apps such as YouTube, gmail and others to run without crashing. Problem is, I used specific versions and I can't remember which ones they were ? I'm trying to find out what I did right and then I can document it so I won't forget again lol. Bare with me.
Google play store is a no go on 3.6.6 though. Use 1mobile or something instead.
Sent from my SD4930UR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
lu1gj3s said:
I've been able to successfully install Google play services, account manager and the services framework previously. Managed to get apps such as YouTube, gmail and others to run without crashing. Problem is, I used specific versions and I can't remember which ones they were I'm trying to find out what I did right and then I can document it so I won't forget again lol. Bare with me.
Google play store is a no go on 3.6.6 though. Use 1mobile or something instead.
Sent from my SD4930UR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm... Sounds interesting.
Having Gmail would be awesome. Please let us know which versions are you using, we would appreciate that
Okidoki, sorted. Get them from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2365224
Then download the latest Google play services from apkmirror.com and update the one you installed from the above link. Reboot and get YouTube and whatever other stuff you need ?
Sent from my SD4930UR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
lu1gj3s said:
Okidoki, sorted. Get them from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2365224
Then download the latest Google play services from apkmirror.com and update the one you installed from the above link. Reboot and get YouTube and whatever other stuff you need
Sent from my SD4930UR using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but... It didn't work. I tried that this morning and it didn't allow me to install even 1 of the apks
Thanks anyway
does this require root to the device
thanks for any replies , forgot to add this
thanks
The method that lu1gj3s posted above would require rooting, as that's the same method for all Kindle Fire tablets. As for the Fire Phone I assume it's the guaranteed to way to make it work
Has anyone tried Baidu root or something similar? I think I'll give it a try tomorrow and then go through the method of putting Google Play on again
WalkableBuffalo said:
The method that lu1gj3s posted above would require rooting, as that's the same method for all Kindle Fire tablets. As for the Fire Phone I assume it's the guaranteed to way to make it work
Has anyone tried Baidu root or something similar? I think I'll give it a try tomorrow and then go through the method of putting Google Play on again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no haven't messed on that much with it yet as I am waiting for a couple of nano sims to arrive for the 2 that I bought. im not that bothered about the play store itself but more about maybe gmail, google chrome and you tube. As I have a nexus 4 now I am pretty used to google being a part of everything i use plus it works well with my chromebook
Easiest way to root is towel root.
For rooting and google services etc. take a look into my guide - follow these steps and your phone should work well.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2898921
thanks for info
will try and have a good go when house is quiet and no kids about lol
No root needed to make it work. I got it running without root on 3.6.6 except for the play store.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2118914&d=1373921344
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2118885&d=1373920818
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2118892&d=1373921084
http://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google.../google-play-services-6-6-03-1681564-070-apk/
Install account manager > services framework > play services > reboot > update play services > install youtube/gmail etc
Must say its disappointing.
The main selling point for me is, its dirt cheap and we can run android apps off it
I will be trying to root this little bad boy, anybody had much luck?
B1ackByte said:
Easiest way to root is towel root.
For rooting and google services etc. take a look into my guide - follow these steps and your phone should work well.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2898921
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well as you've had people say that the downgrade to 3.5 from 3.6.6 works I guess I'll give it a try
But no harm in trying Baidu Root first
Can you update to 3.6.8? In that version there's no problem with Google Apps
ya same here 3.6.6 no google play
ya im in Ireland got phone for 99pound need google play badly need to update to 3.6.8
If anyone hasn't yet figured out that play store won't work on any version of 3.6.6 haven't even tried to solve the problem by looking it up.
I've got it all working but every now and then get play services have stopped coming up on my phone (if anyone knows how to get rid of that let us know, thanks). I've used blackmart but most of all I use aptoide for all my apps. What I have noticed as well any apps that confirm purchases with play store load up.
I have to say, the fire phone with Google services and gapps is 1 of the best phones out. I think it's great and while they've hacked the price, I'd hope more devs would invest more time in to roms and other goodies. £99 you'd have to be stupid not to get 1.
jerico9 said:
If anyone hasn't yet figured out that play store won't work on any version of 3.6.6 haven't even tried to solve the problem by looking it up. .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well what did you do to get it working on 3.6.6? Instead of saying that people should just look it up...
WalkableBuffalo said:
Well what did you do to get it working on 3.6.6? Instead of saying that people should just look it up...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 here..
"google services framework has stopped"
the process "com.google.process.gapps" has stopped
Have tried numerous guides to get this to work on 3.6.6 and none of them work for me, and yes i've looked it up
If not how about being helpful and providing a link or copy and pasting the guide that works?, GoogleFu isnt working out for me.
All the youtube guides and plagiarised articles i can find all reference the same method that doesn't work out.
Alternatively they recommend moving them to system apps which you cant do unless you're rooted and that would mean a downgrade to 3.5
Fire OS 4.6.1 on unlocked GSM 32gig Fire Phone
Notable changes,
Finally we have native wallpaper support
Different slightly improved lock screen notifications
Smart dialer
Ability to switch default SMS/MMS and Keyboard apps
New Dev. Options
Ability to force quit and(or) Disable bloatware apps
Widgets seem to be working well
More detailed settings for Low Motion/Dynamic perspective(specifically for lockscreen, homescreen, and maps)
Google maps is now seemingly 100% functional
Ability to toggle switch cellular data(2g,3g,LTE)
Google Play and GAPPs still working well
Also we now have a bluetooth keyboard config. in our settings
New Emoticons
Status bar is semi-transparent and looks really nice despite lack of persistent icon notifications
Addition of print services pack(HP, Canon, Epson)
Updated Sounds and Notifications settings(
Things that sadly remained the same
No status bar notifications
Cannot individually clear calls or messages from carousel
Still not native android
Notifications seem hit and miss as usual
No Graphical updates or graphical setting in stock message or dialer apps
Camera seems to be the same and I'm still having having better luck with the google camera
App drawer functions the same(new options in app info though)
Overall function of the O.S. seems to improve a lot. Smooth scrolling through the carousel, less if not no lag at all on sleep/wake, and just all in all more pleasing to look at.
I updated manually by downloading the .bin and moving it to the home folder and searching for update with wifi/data off, and because of that I am unsure if the new att bloatware apps were part of the update due to my carrier or if they were packaged inside the update bin which was a shocking 1.3gb. Even though I am fairly certain that those apps are my fault in the first place I feel the need to warn that the U.S. att .bin file could have that affect and unlocked users may want to wait for the OTA just to play it safe. There is however a great guide on here explaining the process and linking quite a few files(for those who can't wait).
**This did work for me however if it does not work for you I am not at fault, sideload at your own risk**
Feel free to add what you find I know I missed a few things but since there is no apparent changelog from amazon I figured I'd try to compile a small unofficial changelog of sorts.
Tried Towelroot Its been hung at the towelroot screen with a highlighted "make it rain" button for about ten mins... I'm going to leave it running for a while and see if anything happens but I'm assuming its still a no go.
I've seen issues regarding call audio, google services and a few other things but I personally haven't been able to recreate them and fortunately haven't had them in the first place.
Camera seems faster in taking photos for me. Also there is an auto HDR setting, before it was either on or off.
buhloon said:
Camera seems faster in taking photos for me. Also there is an auto HDR setting, before it was either on or off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didnt notice that but in my opinion so far the google cam seems to just take better pictures in general
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matsnackson said:
I didnt notice that but in my opinion so far the google cam seems to just take better pictures in general
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, matsnackson do you think that is better to install (sideload) the Google-Camera APP, and used it instead of the default Amazon Camera APP?
Could you please, let us know what differences or improvements do you have noticed, if you use the Google Camara APP instead of the Amazon one?
Notable changes
- Chooseable colors for mail accounts and calendars, but there aren't too much colors to choose to.
Things that sadly remained the same
- Shared Google calendars won't show up in the/any calendar app, that's very very annoying
Still can't connect to my LG g Watch
Android Wear or Google now not working
hungrymr2 said:
Still can't connect to my LG g Watch
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I second your opinion as I have not been able to conect my LG G watch to Fire phone with 4.6.1.
Also sideloding Google play services and play store worked fine for few minutes after which the play services auto updates when I install google search and now from Playstore.
After this any sideloaded google apps start hanging with white screen and circle clock running. Uninstall and install after factory resets also did not help.
ulises.rodriguez said:
So, matsnackson do you think that is better to install (sideload) the Google-Camera APP, and used it instead of the default Amazon Camera APP?
Could you please, let us know what differences or improvements do you have noticed, if you use the Google Camara APP instead of the Amazon one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
s.raghuveer said:
I second your opinion as I have not been able to conect my LG G watch to Fire phone with 4.6.1.
Also sideloding Google play services and play store worked fine for few minutes after which the play services auto updates when I install google search and now from Playstore.
After this any sideloaded google apps start hanging with white screen and circle clock running. Uninstall and install after factory resets also did not help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been using the stock camera app for a few days and it seems to be better than I first thought but I still prefer the google camera app, but at this point it seems to be my personal preference... I really just feel more comfortable with the google camera app.(long time nexus user)
I have seen quite a few people with the google play issues and I tried removing then reloading google services and google play but i havent had any issues the only advice i can give is to remove and try again making sure to pay close attention to the order you install the packages(there is a specific order, and a few great guides on here)
The LG watch seems to be common issue as well but I don’t have one to test with, I'll look into buying one and see what I can do. Until then the only advice I have is to unpair the watch and your phone and reboot before attemting to repair the two. Good luck and sorry.
s.raghuveer said:
I second your opinion as I have not been able to conect my LG G watch to Fire phone with 4.6.1.
Also sideloding Google play services and play store worked fine for few minutes after which the play services auto updates when I install google search and now from Playstore.
After this any sideloaded google apps start hanging with white screen and circle clock running. Uninstall and install after factory resets also did not help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll third this. I feel like Amazon is intentionally crippling Google services, and I've already ordered a replacement phone.
These are services that run fine on what, 99% of Android phones?
tzenrick said:
I'll third this. I feel like Amazon is intentionally crippling Google services, and I've already ordered a replacement phone.
These are services that run fine on what, 99% of Android phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly I don't think this is intentionally being done by either side, we run an outdated version of android so naturally were going to see at least a few compatibility issues, have you tried a factory reset and full reload of play services in order? Also be patient with 4.6.1 from everything I've read its not technically official on the unlocked phones yet.
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Download Notification
Download in Notification bar now shows Pause/Resume & Cancel options.
TansDeva said:
Download in Notification bar now shows Pause/Resume & Cancel options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't download too much on here so I hadn't even noticed thanks for adding in though
I did want to add in as well that my battery life seems much better than before I actually forgot to charge this for two days and still had 30%( I disabled low motion setting and don't use auto brightness, but none the less that's a great battery life)
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I'm looking forward to the update. I feel changing your keyboard is a few months late, but I'd be happy to finally have swiftkey back. I'm running an unlocked Fire Phone with 3.6.8. Amazon doesn't even acknowledge a new update on their Fire Phone update page. Perhaps it's in some sort of beta as they harvest data before making it official?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201531560
LilLowEK said:
I'm looking forward to the update. I feel changing your keyboard is a few months late, but I'd be happy to finally have swiftkey back. I'm running an unlocked Fire Phone with 3.6.8. Amazon doesn't even acknowledge a new update on their Fire Phone update page. Perhaps it's in some sort of beta as they harvest data before making it official?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201531560
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was cleared up in the OTA thread this is unofficial at this point those who have it either got lucky or manually installed it, I personally used the at&t bin file even though I have the unlocked 32gig.
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Working Widgets?
matsnackson said:
Fire OS 4.6.1 on unlocked GSM 32gig Fire Phone
Notable changes,
...
Widgets seem to be working well
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which launcher did you use? I tried it on Nova Launcher and Aviate and it still gives me the same error message as before
Smart Dialer? I don't see it.
matsnackson said:
Fire OS 4.6.1 on unlocked GSM 32gig Fire Phone
Notable changes,
Finally we have native wallpaper support
Different slightly improved lock screen notifications
Smart dialer
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't see smart dialer. I had one in my MOTO-X.
downloaded the us version of 4.6 and guess what? Andriod wear is back. Now I can finally put my lg watch to use.
Guys,
I got my Fire Phone unlocked updated to new 4.6.1 but after the update I am unable to see the Maps icon. I am currently in Australia but the phone is an unlocked US version. Do I reset or is it something Amazon has done?