Related
It seems that Google just rolled out version 7.3.28 of their Google Play Services last night, and my Kindle Fire HD 8.9 has been popping up annoying Play Services have Stopped boxes constantly. Edit - confirmed this also is happening with 7.3.29. Also confirmed that this problem and fix works with the 7" Kindle fire HD tablets.
After pulling all my hair out, restoring to factory settings 3 times, figuring out how to re-root version 8.5.1, and then re-installing my old Google apps (from previous downloaded files), I have confirmed that Google will very quickly notice the outdated version and update to 7.3.28. Then the annoying pop-ups start all over again.
1) To fix the problem, you need a working version of Google Play Services. Go into Settings->Applications->Installed Applications and look for Google Play Services. Look for the version number in parenthesis, paying attention to the last 3 digits after the suffix. If it's like my Kindle 8.9, it will be -034. I confirmed that my Kindle did work on the previous version of Play Services (7.0.99), so what you need is to download that version for your Kindle. For the -034 version, the link is at:
(edit: I apparently can't post links, so I've modified the following to make it not look like a link, please edit and paste into your browser).
h t t p : / / www (dot) apkmirror (dot) com/wp-content/themes/APKMirror/download (dot) php?id=7772
2) Once downloaded, turn OFF Wi-Fi. Then, use ES3 file explorer to re-install this version from wherever you downloaded it to, overwriting the current version.
3) Next, create a folder in /data/app with name "com.google.android.gms-2" (not with the quote marks). You may see the actual .apk file already there ending in -1. Change permissions for this folder to rw-r-r. This folder should block the Google automatic update.
NOTE: This assumes your play services app is installed in this folder as "com.google.android.gms-1.apk". If it's not, one fix is to uninstall play services, then repeat the install in step 2. That should make it be named with the -1 suffix.
4) Repeat step 1 to confirm you're still on version 7.0.99. Select Clear data just to be sure the cache is cleared.
5) It should be safe to turn Wi-Fi back on. Launch Google Play Store, do a few things and confirm it works!
Really grateful for this, basically had the same issues as you on a Kindle 7", as Amazon store had popped up a few times with a permissions update I figured I'd suffered a clash/glitch. It wasn't until I turned on a dormant 8.9" and got the same error that I realised it was a wider issue and searched for your post.
Seems to have fixed the 8.9 first time, now back to the 7 and hope I haven't screwed it up too much trying multiple solutions.
Just a couple of notes from a novice, it's files that are located in data/app not folders? (update - confirmed need to create a folder not a file)
And the permissions correspond to Owner - Read, Write / Group - Read / Others - Read, being ticked only.
Another thing to look out for, when you're creating the dummy folder, watch out for autocorrect renaming parts of it to something else, maybe try copying and pasting the name.
:good: It worked perfectly! Thanks a lot!
P.S. i used this procedure in a kindle fire hd 7" (Tate)
This mostly worked, except I needed to create "com.google.android.gms-2.apk" to stop the updates. Worked on a Kindle 7 HD as well.
bobdob123usa said:
This mostly worked, except I needed to create "com.google.android.gms-2.apk" to stop the updates. Worked on a Kindle 7 HD as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi
I have the same issue with Play Services stopping, I downloaded the 7.0.99 -034 version which is correct for my 7 inch Fire HD.
I turned off wifi and installed it (over the existing) using the ES file manager and now have a new error "the processcom.google.process.gapps has stopped".
I read elsewhere this could be associated with the Downloads app but the problem is I cannot navigate anywhere on the device as the error reappears within a second of dismissing it
Any suggestions welcomed as I have a brick at present
There was an occasion when I got the persistent gapps error too, can you persevere and dismiss it enough to get to More/Applications/Installed Applications/Google Play services and Force Stop?
You can then confirm whether the old (working 7.0.99) version installed correctly and see if the error stops?
kinoogle said:
There was an occasion when I got the persistent gapps error too, can you persevere and dismiss it enough to get to More/Applications/Installed Applications/Google Play services and Force Stop?
You can then confirm whether the old (working 7.0.99) version installed correctly and see if the error stops?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi
Thanks for the response ..... I manages to force stop the Google Play services, 7.0.99 was installed
I have uninstalled the Play Service and the tablet seems to work with no errors but I guess I need to reinstall it again ....... or do I?
VeeMax said:
Hi
Thanks for the response ..... I manages to force stop the Google Play services, 7.0.99 was installed
I have uninstalled the Play Service and the tablet seems to work with no errors but I guess I need to reinstall it again ....... or do I?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess you need it if you want to use the Google store/synch? Maybe if you did a fresh install using this method the error would go away as it was something to do with the cache?
I have tried to do this method but still not working. It stays on 7.0.99 version but won't even open. I can't get it to open long enough for me to sign in. Any suggestions
---------- Post added at 02:34 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:30 AM ----------
what folder are you creating the new folder in as well?
frosty1218 said:
I have tried to do this method but still not working. It stays on 7.0.99 version but won't even open. I can't get it to open long enough for me to sign in. Any suggestions
---------- Post added at 02:34 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:30 AM ----------
what folder are you creating the new folder in as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've done this method on both my 8.9" tablet, as well as two 7" tablets. The folder you create is in /data/app (you need to be root). Make sure you clear cache on the 7.0.99 version or things may still be out of sync.
In general, you'll have to fight through the clicking of OK on the annoying pop-ups. It may help to reboot the Kindle (hold down the power button, etc) to see if timing works better, and it may give you a window to uninstall quickly.
I created the folder in the data/app folder but now I'm not so sure I put it on the correct one. Can you tell me what folder exactly it goes into please?
frosty1218 said:
I created the folder in the data/app folder but now I'm not so sure I put it on the correct one. Can you tell me what folder exactly it goes into please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use ES File explorer. Back up all the way to the "/" directory. Under that you should see a folder called "data". Inside that, you should see a folder called "app". That is the /data/app folder. You'll know you're in the right place, because there should be a lot of installed .apk files in there. If you sort alphabetically, you should be able to find "com.google.android.gms-1.apk" (which corresponds to your installed play services file).
To block updates, make dummy named folders, such as "com.google.android-gms-2", and as another user pointed out it may help to also create "com.google.android.gms-2.apk". See the original post about setting permissions. Also, be careful about the autocorrect trying to change your filename on you. Once you finish, scroll through and compare names versus the installed play services apk (it should be -1, and you should have just made folders that have the same name, only with the -2).
should I download the google apk files from the kindle from apkmirror website or download them on my computer then transfer them to my kindle fire?
Once again,I have done all the steps shown and still, the moment I tap on google play store, it shows stopped error and returns to home screen. Does all the apk files need to change? The google framework apk, vending apk, google login apk, and the play store apk.
Please help
I keep getting the google play services have stopped working message. I would appreciate if someone could give me like a dummy version of this because I don't fully understand. So please make a video and reply it to me. Or just type something just please reply and help me do this.
I have tried this fix on a 7" fire HD tablet and I cannot get the fix to persist. Once I roll back with the correct 7.0.99 version with both a "com.google.android.gms-2" folder set with the correct permissions and a "com.google.android.gms-2.apk" installed in the data/apps folder things work well until a reboot. After a reboot I get upgraded to the .29 version of the apk and have to reinstall the working version again. I have tried every combination of folder/apk possibilities I can think of and I am still stuck. Any ideas?
Is there any update on how to keep the 7.0.99 Play Services version from upgrading? As mentioned above, I can get the 7.0.99 version to work, but only for a couple of days. Has anyone found a permanent solution?
mach76 said:
I have tried this fix on a 7" fire HD tablet and I cannot get the fix to persist. Once I roll back with the correct 7.0.99 version with both a "com.google.android.gms-2" folder set with the correct permissions and a "com.google.android.gms-2.apk" installed in the data/apps folder things work well until a reboot. After a reboot I get upgraded to the .29 version of the apk and have to reinstall the working version again. I have tried every combination of folder/apk possibilities I can think of and I am still stuck. Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is your "com.google.android.gms-2.apk" also a folder, or a dummy file? I've had success through reboots with two dummy folders: "com.google.android.gms-2" and "com.google.android.gms-2.apk". Make sure you uninstalled play services and re-installed 7.0.99 so that it takes the -1 suffix.
frosty1218 said:
Once again,I have done all the steps shown and still, the moment I tap on google play store, it shows stopped error and returns to home screen. Does all the apk files need to change? The google framework apk, vending apk, google login apk, and the play store apk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. You should only need to uninstall the Google Play Services, and that apk is the only one that needs re-installing. If the other files had previously been installed and worked fine, then they should still be ok.
See the note above about the two folders - for some installs, the dual dummy folder names seem to work better, and survive reboots.
I had to use r--r--r-- perms on the dummy file and folder to stop the updates. Otherwise outstanding help, thamks wolverine, kindle has stopped its google play seizures.
UPDATE: I have since added r--r--r-- on the actual 7.0.99 file (the -1.apk file) in order to prevent the updates (it managed to sneak in a damned update without it), so:
- follow ALL wolverine's excellent directions for installation, including turning off wifi, etc, take NO shortcuts
- create the dummy folder AND the dummy file (-2.apk)
- apply r--r--r-- permissions on ALL 3 ITEMS (dummy folder, dummy -2 file, and actual -1 file)
- enjoy a fully functional google play shizznitz on your rooted Fire.
Tested and working on unlocked 4.6.3 firmware.
Recommended installation order below:
1) Google Account Manager 4.4.2 (940549)
2) Google Services Framework 4.4.2 (940549)
3) Google Play Services 7.8.99 (2134222-036) - Updated
4) Google Play Store 5.8.8 - Updated
This has been working without a single crash for over a month!
ES File Explorer is helpful, should be able to install without a PC.
Code:
Current Version (now a ZIP!) - https://mega.nz/#!exQCRaDS!2JCj_e8rsGqdB-Y1Bi5ijyS0lFPDeEnP31MEQjXfqjs
Older Version (now outdated) - https://mega.co.nz/#!u15HQbCB!kb72acWFWIMIM1sBStNFnBSFJ7SwOdU_e5g0KTMNjps
.
escape75 said:
Install order is asfp, so basically install in order ...
Account Manager, Play Services, Services Framework, Play Store.
ES File Explorer is helpful, should be able to install without a PC.
mega.co.nz
HTML:
/#!u15HQbCB!kb72acWFWIMIM1sBStNFnBSFJ7SwOdU_e5g0KTMNjps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which Android APP is better to descompress??
If I try to descompress this .7zip file using the "7zip & Zip" android APP, it ask me for a password...
Could you please post the File password?
ulises.rodriguez said:
Which Android APP is better to descompress??
If I try to descompress this .7zip file using the "7zip & Zip" android APP, it ask me for a password...
Could you please post the File password?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no password
beware: after install, I cant access my play store
not working for me
stunvn said:
There is no password
beware: after install, I cant access my play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here
just getting the dreaded white screen
immediately un-installed
ulises.rodriguez said:
Which Android APP is better to descompress??
If I try to descompress this .7zip file using the "7zip & Zip" android APP, it ask me for a password...
Could you please post the File password?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no password, ES File explorer should be able to decompress,
that's what I used to 7zip it. This newest version might only work on 4.6.1 ...
I've a US unlocked phone updated to 4.6.1
and only getting the white screen
I've just factory reset a 4.6.1 and installed these 4 files and it's working perfectly ...
egglexda said:
I've a US unlocked phone updated to 4.6.1
and only getting the white screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try going to settings, force close Play Store, clear data and cache and try again.
Well, no white screen here, but an endless login attemt. Installed everything in the correct order (after fresh factory reset), restart phone. After restart hit play store, entered the mail/pw. It just keeps loading endlessly, it´s been 5 Minutes now. Phone is not freezed, notifications menu can be accessed. Any help/ideas please?
Edit: Wifi was off... now only the dreaded white screen. With a loading circle in the middle. Tryed force closing and deleting the data, still white screen.
Edit2: it´s just getting weirder and weirder. After clearing the app data and cache in every google app, after a restart the play store starts (logged in with my account, too...), but it says there is no data connection (Wifi is this time on^^).
Edit 3: after another restart white screen only.
I'm only getting white screen, this doesn't work but thanks for sharing
I don't think the white screen is Fire specific, others are getting it too.
I think it happens when the message about receiving updates from google
on first run doesn't make it to the foreground, and you can't proceed.
Try clearing cache for both Play Store and Google Services, and run
Google Services first, then start the Play Store.
HTML code no working
hello, the html code fron mega not working, please can you help us? thanks
it works !
just to confirm that this package works fine with the newly released US version of 4.6.1
I installed the US version over the 02 UK version on my unlocked US phone
and now everything works
(until Google mess it up again !)
Joelbf06 said:
I'm only getting white screen, this doesn't work but thanks for sharing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also received the white screen when trying to sign in to the play store. Similar to the other poster, Go to "Settings", then "Applications & Parental Controls", then "Manage Applications", then when selecting Goggle Play Store, hit Clear Cache and Clear Data, then restart. It worked for me after the restart.
radang said:
I also received the white screen when trying to sign in to the play store. Similar to the other poster, Go to "Settings", then "Applications & Parental Controls", then "Manage Applications", then when selecting Goggle Play Store, hit Clear Cache and Clear Data, then restart. It worked for me after the restart.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm still getting the white screen I got the unlocked fire phone version
Fixed on it's own
My Fire Phone had the Play Services error that everyone else had, but now it's fine. I did nothing to fix the problem. I'm posting this in several places.
Edit: USA, unlocked Fire Phone from Amazon.
Thanks OP for posting the files.
I was able to install and run play store.
However, i am noticing google play services consuming majority of the battery. Before i installed these files, i was having very good battery performance.
When i look at the battery usage details for Google Play services, "keep awake" is same as total time on battery. For some reason it's always awake and consuming battery.
Did anyone else had or notices this issue?
ingluisg said:
hello, the html code fron mega not working, please can you help us? thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The link on first page still works for me, try copying and pasting it or download from a PC.
id4398 said:
Thanks OP for posting the files.
I was able to install and run play store.
However, i am noticing google play services consuming majority of the battery. Before i installed these files, i was having very good battery performance.
When i look at the battery usage details for Google Play services, "keep awake" is same as total time on battery. For some reason it's always awake and consuming battery.
Did anyone else had or notices this issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No issues with battery here, in fact with the newest google services & play store and 4.6.1 the battery seems just as good if not better than before.
Maybe it's a particular google app that you have installed ?
battery fine on my phone with the US version of 4.6.1 and these files
I just got a Fire Phone via the Ebay sale, and like many others, I wanted to set it up with Google Apps. I also wanted to keep the working camera and NFC, so I decided to stick with FireOS. Doing that took a lot of searching, and flipping through multiple threads. It can get a little confusing. So I've collected all the steps here to help others (and myself, in case I need to do this again in the future, when I inevitably break something while tinkering). I've written this from the perspective of someone who has purchased a brand new Fire Phone from a third-party seller.
PLEASE NOTE: Much of this is the work/discoveries of other forum members. I'll link out to the original posts whenever possible. Please thank those people accordingly!
1. When you first start up your phone, connect to WiFi, and let it go through the upgrade process to 4.6.4. Now is the time to register your phone with Amazon (by signing in with your Amazon account). You want that year of Prime, don't you?
2. SIM Unlock the phone (if you aren't using AT&T). It's easy!
a. Use a paperclip to pop out the SIM tray
b. Insert a non-AT&T nano-sized SIM card. (Mine came with an AT&T SIM in it. You can't use this card to SIM unlock)
c. A window should pop up, prompting you to enter the code that is on your box. Enter it.
d. Done!
3. Open Settings>Applications & Parental Controls>Prevent non-Amazon app installation. Turn App Installation to ON
4. Make sure ADB is set up on your computer. (this is an easy guide to follow if you don't already have it: http://lifehacker.com/the-easiest-way-to-install-androids-adb-and-fastboot-to-1586992378 )
5. Download the following file to your desktop computer:
GSM Unlocked Firmware (this is a 1.2gb file) (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=62768812&postcount=2). Rename this update.bin, and put it into the folder where ADB is installed.Now we get our hands dirty:
6. If you are using Windows (I'm not), follow the directions that @Bingo Bronson posted here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=62768812&postcount=2. @DePingus also has an illustrated guide for ADB on Windows here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=62844581&postcount=14
6a. If you aren't using Windows, you can follow my steps (the same, just without all the Android SDK stuff, assuming you installed ADB in step #4)
a. Connect your phone to your PC & boot into recovery: When the phone is off, hold PWR + VOL. UP until the recovery screen appears
b. From the list, choose "Apply update from ADB"
c. In the command prompt, enter the following:
Code:
adb sideload path/to/update.bin
d. It should take a few minutes. When it's done, reboot your phone
NOTE: If for some reason this isn't working for you, @jack9955 has posted steps on how to downgrade via Safestrap here.
7. Open Settings>Device>Get Info About Your Fire Phone. Your current version will be listed under Software Version, and it should now be 4.6.3
At this point, you may need to repeat step 3. I didn't, but it's worth checking.
8. Open the Amazon app store (one last time) and download ES File Explorer.
9. In the Silk Browser, open up the following links and download the files:
KingRoot (http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/help/root-4-6-3-t3173322)
Updated Google Play Store files: (http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/google-play-store-4-6-1-version-4-apks-t3098592)
10. Open ES File Explorer, navigate to Download, and install KingRoot. Follow the directions to achieve root.
11a. At this point, some people like to remove KingRoot (out of security concerns) and replace it with SuperSu. I haven't done that yet, but you can follow the directions from @najoor here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/root-fire-phone-supersu-t3105546
12. Open ES File Explorer, navigate to Download, and unzip play.zip. Be sure to install the apks contained in the play.zip folder in the proper order (Thanks to @escape75 for these files)
1) Google Account Manager 4.4.2 (940549)
2) Google Services Framework 4.4.2 (940549)
3) Google Play Services 7.8.99 (2134222-036) - Updated
4) Google Play Store 5.8.8 - Updated
13. After installing, I rebooted into recovery again, and wiped the cache partition. I don't know if you need to, but engaging in good housekeeping is never bad.
14. You should have a Play Store icon in your app drawer now. Click it to open, and holy crap!! It works. Plug in your google account details.
Now it's time to keep Amazon from wrecking all your hard work. Steps 15 or 15a will block OTA updates of the OS.
15. Go to Settings>Applications & Parental Controls>Manage Applications. Click Filter By and select All. Find each of the files listed below, click it, and then click the "Disable" button on the next screen. Repeat for the other three files. (thanks @Bingo Bronson)
Amazon Device Client
DCP Platform Contracts
System Update
System Update (yes, there are two different files named system update. Freeze/Disable both)
15a. If you'd rather, you can do like I did, and use Titanium Backup Pro to freeze the above files.
16. Don't like the Launcher? Neither do I. I followed these directions to change out my launcher: http://spinyourfire.com/fire-phone-tips-and-tricks/fire-phone-launcher/ I use Home Switch from the Play Store. It will allow you to set your new launcher.
If you decide to use a new launcher, here's some info (courtesy @Bingo Bronson) which may help:
1. Settings>Display>Show Status Bar allows you to turn on the Status Bar at the top of the screen. This will help some launchers display properly.
2. Miss your NavBar / want some way other than Amazon gestures to navigate your phone? Try installing Ultimate Dynamic NavBar or Pie Controls.
NOTE: The new launcher will disable Tilt Left/Right on your home screen. In Amazon apps, the gesture will still work.
17. To sync your contacts/calendars/etc, go to Settings>My Accounts>Manage Email Accounts and add your Google account info.
a. Select that account, check sync calendar and sync contacts.
b. Set Inbox Check Frequency to manual.
c. In Email Settings, set everything to off, then click email notification settings, and set all of those to off.
BEWARE: HERE BE DRAGONS
Hi. Are you new to phone hacking? Then you should probably stop reading here. Following any of the links or info could (pretty easily) lead to bricking your phone. I won't even mess with most of this stuff, I'm just providing links for intrepid explorers who know what they are getting into, and are willing to risk it. SERIOUSLY, TURN AROUND HERE!
Seriously, you did all that work, and now you want to risk breaking it? Well yeah, me too. So let's cover our asses.
Backing Up with SafeStrap
First, let's back up what you've done. @ggow (to whom we all owe a debt of gratitude) has gifted us with SafeStrap, which allows us to boot into a version of TWRP recovery. From there, you can install his CM11 or SlimKat Roms, or use the backup feature, which is what we are about to do.
1. Install Safestrap from here http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/development/recovery-safestrap-v4-0-1-t3149888. In ggow's directions, it talks about 4.6.1, but I can confirm it works properly on 4.6.3.
2. Once you have booted into Safestrap, Click Backup and then back it up! (it took about ten minutes for me)
3. Of course, a backup won't do you any good if you don't have multiple redundancies. So plug your phone into your computer, open up a terminal/CMD prompt, and enter the following:
Code:
adb start-server
then
Code:
adb pull /sdcard/TWRP/ /path/to/your/backup/folder
after that runs for a while, you should see a message that says something along the lines of "12 files pulled. 0 files skipped"
Good! Now we are backed up, and we can start breaking stuff.
Turn on USB Debugging
1. Go to Settings>Device>Get info about your Fire
2. Tap "Model Number" seven or eight times, until the "Developer Options" button appears at the bottom of the list
3. Tap "Developer Options" and enable USB debuggingInstalling Xposed Framework
Xposed Framework allows you to install different modules that can change the look, feel and operation of your phone. Xposed works best on Vanilla Android, but we can definitely put it to good use here. Lifehacker has a great overview on Xposed. I'll just give you the basics here.
What you'll need: Root
1. On your phone, visit http://repo.xposed.info/module/de.robv.android.xposed.installer. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click Show Older versions. You want the APK for version 2.6.1 (the most recent stable version)
2. After downloading, navigate to your Downloads folder and install the Xposed Apk.
3. Open Xposed and click Framework. It will show you that Xposed is currently inactive. Tap the install/update button.
4. Once installed, you must reboot your phone for Xposed to work.Congrats! Now with Xposed, you can really start customizing your phone. Check the forums...there is tons to discover and lots of people who know far more than I about how to use it. Just remember that a lot of the cosmetic stuff might not work on a Fire Phone. The modules I use are: ACDisplay, Amplify (paid version), AppOppsXposed, GravityBox, Greenify (paid version), PowerNap.
Installing a custom Lock Screen
Many of us on Android are used to custom lock screens, and haven't been thrilled with the Amazon Lock Screen. Through some trial and error, I've discovered how to swap out the Amazon Lock Screen for my lock screen of choice, ACDisplay. I haven't tried this with other 3rd party lock screens. Try following (and contributing to) this lockscreen thread to see any developments on other lock screens.
What you need: Xposed, Root, ES File Explorer (or another file explorer with root access)
1. Install ACDisplay (I sideloaded the APK, but it seems to work from the Play Store)
2. Open ES File Explorer, tap the hamburger menu, scroll down to Tools, and turn on Root Explorer
3. find the installed apk (com.achep.acdisplay-1.apk) in /data/app
4. rename it LockScreen.apk and move it to /system/priv-app/
5. Reboot
6. Open up AC Display and grant it access to Accessibility Settings and Notifications
7. In ACDisplay>Settings>Lockscreen move the slider to On and make sure that "Enable when no notifications" is ticked
8. Open Xposed and activate the ACDisplay module.
9. Reboot
10. I don't know if you need to, but I went to Settings>Lock Screen> Turn on Notifications... and made sure that notifications were off.
The Xposed integration seems to be the key. Now, when I reboot my phone, I'll get the original Amazon Lock Screen once (sometimes) and then ACDisplay pops up from that point on. Apparently, if you want a pin/password on the lock screen, you can still use the security features of the OS lockscreen.
Launchers with Widgets
One of the problems with custom launchers is that widgets don't seem to work on the Fire Phone. But @hmoobguy and @DePingus have figured out how to beat that in this thread. Just like with the lock screen, you'll have to move some files.
What you need: Root, ES File Explorer (or another file explorer with root access)
1. Install your launcher from the Play Store.
1a. If you haven't already, visit the Play Store on your desktop, look at the page for the launcher you just installed, and take note of what comes after 'id=' in the URL. That's the file name you'll search for.
2. Open ES File Explorer, tap the hamburger menu, scroll down to Tools, and turn on Root Explorer
3. find the installed apk for your launcher of choice in /data/app by searching for what came after 'id=' in step 1a.
4. move it to /system/priv-app/
5. Reboot
Note: you can also use Titanium to convert your launcher of choice into a system app.
Other Stuff
@Bingo Bronson has a ridiculously extensive list of Fire OS apps that can be disabled/frozen or deleted. Use at your own risk: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/general/complete-app-list-replace-remove-t3132008
Hopefully this is helpful to others. I can add information as I go if new info (and new annoyances) come to light. Please let me know if there is anything I missed!
Thanks man! That's a good list there!
I gathered much of the information you have posted there last night and I have it at 4.6.3 with Google Play and a custom launcher.
My next challenge is a single lock screen. I have yet to actually root it however.
Which seems it will be required to get any further with the lock screen deal based off what I've read thus far.
Cheers!
"curious what adds the extra slide lock, is it the adding of a different Launcher or Home Switch? Even when using the FirePhone launcher again it remains."
Natet2003 said:
"curious what adds the extra slide lock, is it the adding of a different Launcher or Home Switch? Even when using the FirePhone launcher again it remains."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not quite sure what you mean here. I'm messing with the lock screen myself, haven't quite got it figured out yet. I use AC Display, and have been trying to freeze various apps listed in the App List post (at the bottom of the walkthrough under "HERE BE DRAGONS"). I can shut off the Amazon lock screen, but for some reason, my lock screen only works every other time. If I let it sit for a while and then unlock it, I just get the woven graphite background and nothing else. I have to turn off the screen, turn it back on again, and then my lock screen will work. I'm assuming it has something to do with the system putting the app to sleep.
Natet2003 said:
My next challenge is a single lock screen. I have yet to actually root it however.
Which seems it will be required to get any further with the lock screen deal based off what I've read thus far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This thread has info on changing the lockscreen.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/help/fire-phone-lock-screen-t2982798/page5
You do need root. Install the new lockscreen (many people were using Next Lock Screen). Use a root file explorer to delete /system/priv-app/LockScreen.apk (make a backup first). Then move whatevernewlockscreen.apk from /data/app to /system/priv-app, rename it to LockScreen.apk and reboot.
I was having issues with the alarm clock and then I screwed up all the lockscreens. I gave up trying to fix my mess and just took the opportunity to install 4.6.3. That fixed all my issues and put me back to the stock crappy lockscreen, which I'm still running.
munkymack said:
I'm not quite sure what you mean here. I'm messing with the lock screen myself, haven't quite got it figured out yet. I use AC Display, and have been trying to freeze various apps listed in the App List post (at the bottom of the walkthrough under "HERE BE DRAGONS"). I can shut off the Amazon lock screen, but for some reason, my lock screen only works every other time. If I let it sit for a while and then unlock it, I just get the woven graphite background and nothing else. I have to turn off the screen, turn it back on again, and then my lock screen will work. I'm assuming it has something to do with the system putting the app to sleep.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I found what it was. I had "C Launcher" installed. It does an iPhone styled sliding lock screen that even when I swapped to another Launcher the lock screen kept activating. (So I had two screens to bypass) When I had experimented with GO Locker it added yet another screen to those so 3 screens!
So once I've removed CLauncher and GO Locker I've not just have a single screen, which is FireOS default lock screen.
Great instructions, well consolidated--thanks!!
Questions: 1. What's the reason you went through all the updates, all the way to 4.6.4 and then downgraded to 4.6.3. Could you just not have installed 4.6.3 from the beginning? 2. Also, why version 4.6.3? Is that the version on which google play works the best?--the reason I ask is because I too have read so many posts on this site and I have come to perceive that Google play still does not work perfectly on any of the versions!. Hopefully my perception is wrong and I can proceed with your consolidated instructions. Can you please post updates as the days go by on how its all working. Thanks.
dannyol said:
Questions: 1. What's the reason you went through all the updates, all the way to 4.6.4 and then downgraded to 4.6.3. Could you just not have installed 4.6.3 from the beginning? 2. Also, why version 4.6.3? Is that the version on which google play works the best?--the reason I ask is because I too have read so many posts on this site and I have come to perceive that Google play still does not work perfectly on any of the versions!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went to 4.6.4 simply because my phone automatically updated from 3.5.0>4.6.1>4.6.4 when I connected it to wifi, and the directions I'd found showed how to downgrade from 4.6.4 (which is AT&T specific) to 4.6.3 (gsm unlocked).
The reason I chose to downgrade is because Play store doesn't work on 4.6.4...it keeps breaking. On 4.6.3, that's not the case (so far); Play Store (and even more important, Play Services, which is necessary for most Google apps) is working exactly like it should be. Might it break in the future? Yeah, probably. But if / when it does, I'll try and update the post (assuming that a fix gets found).
DePingus said:
This thread has info on changing the lockscreen.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-phone/help/fire-phone-lock-screen-t2982798/page5
You do need root. Install the new lockscreen (many people were using Next Lock Screen). Use a root file explorer to delete /system/priv-app/LockScreen.apk (make a backup first). Then move whatevernewlockscreen.apk from /data/app to /system/priv-app, rename it to LockScreen.apk and reboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just a heads up, DePingus and I have been discussing this on the linked thread, and the above instructions DO NOT work. LockScreen.apk does not exist in /system/priv-app/ on 4.6.3. At this point in time, there is not a way to completely replace the Amazon lock screen with a custom lock screen.
This is a good guide.
Just FYI, you don't have to enable USB debugging to root with KingRoot. And, more importantly, you don't have to be rooted or enable USB debugging to install 4.6.3, Google Play Services, or alternate launchers. Instead of adb push, you can just copy the apks over using your favorite method (USB, OneDrive, direct download) and then run to install. Come to think of it, you probably should move rooting and USB debugging into the "here be dragons" section.
Is it safe to update the play store when it asks?
MrPaulAR said:
Is it safe to update the play store when it asks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, as far as we know (for v. 4.6.3) Play Store can be updated and will still work, same with Play services.
New fire phone with version 3.5-rooted and now at a stand-still
Bingo Bronson said:
Yes, as far as we know (for v. 4.6.3) Play Store can be updated and will still work, same with Play services.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too got my new fire phone on ebay. The fire phone has version 3.5. I read that it was a rootable version, so I proceeded to root the phone via towelroot . I have supersu installed also. I have verified root via an app and the phone is now successfully rooted. Now I am puzzled as to what I should do with the fire phone with version 3.5 and am at a stand-still!!.
Questions:
1. Can I update to version 4.6.3 from here without loosing root?
2. Will updating to version 4.6.3 in its present rooted condition cause any harm (i.e bricking) ?
4. If I need to remove root and supersu in-order to update the phone to version 4.6.3, how do I do that?
3. The reason for these questions is because I am assuming that I need to update to version 4.6.3 to install google apps.
Can you help me proceed along from this standstill that I find myself in!
Thanks
dannyol said:
I too got my new fire phone on ebay. The fire phone has version 3.5. I read that it was a rootable version, so I proceeded to root the phone via towelroot . I have supersu installed also. I have verified root via an app and the phone is now successfully rooted. Now I am puzzled as to what I should do with the fire phone with version 3.5 and am at a stand-still!!.
Questions:
1. Can I update to version 4.6.3 from here without loosing root?
2. Will updating to version 4.6.3 in its present rooted condition cause any harm (i.e bricking) ?
4. If I need to remove root and supersu in-order to update the phone to version 4.6.3, how do I do that?
3. The reason for these questions is because I am assuming that I need to update to version 4.6.3 to install google apps.
Can you help me proceed along from this standstill that I find myself in!
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the same thing when I first got mine, so I understand where you are coming from. After reading around on the forum, I saw that 4.6.3 could work with Play Store / Services, so I just did a straight up OS update. I didn't unroot or anything, and suffered no problems. My phone updated from 3.5 to 4.6.1, and then to 4.6.4. From that point, I downgraded to 4.6.3 and then proceeded with the steps in the guide.
As far as I can tell, you WILL lose root in the update, but you can use Kingroot to re-apply root.
Will this work on a Fire tablet? Would I just not run the GSM unlocked firmware part?
Thanks
jimbobalu said:
Will this work on a Fire tablet? Would I just not run the GSM unlocked firmware part?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have absolutely no idea. If it does work, let me know. I've got one of the new $50 fire tablets coming at the end of the month.
DePingus said:
Just FYI, you don't have to enable USB debugging to root with KingRoot. And, more importantly, you don't have to be rooted or enable USB debugging to install 4.6.3, Google Play Services, or alternate launchers. Instead of adb push, you can just copy the apks over using your favorite method (USB, OneDrive, direct download) and then run to install. Come to think of it, you probably should move rooting and USB debugging into the "here be dragons" section.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a good point. I've been doing this long enough that rooting is something I do without a second thought, but for beginners, it opens up the door to a host of problems. I'll do a reorganization next time it's slow around the office.
Thank you for the step-by-step guide. It was incredibly helpful and everything worked...expect for downgrading to 4.6.3. It may be because I'm on a Mac, but nothing I tried seemed to work. That is until I found this website that worked to perfection. Hopefully anyone else on a Mac finds it useful as well.
And apparently because I'm a new user, I can't post URL's, so here's the closest I can get you
seo-michael.co.uk/how-to-setup-adb-on-os-x
This phone is dirty cheap now.
i might grab one of these . here in Europe
cheers
Be sure and check the LTE bands before you do. You may not be able use high speed data there.
EDIT: I looked at the work in your signature. I'm pretty sure you know exactly what you are doing / getting yourself into if you do pick one up. I'm just trying to be super newbie friendly over here, hence my response.
Osufever said:
Thank you for the step-by-step guide. It was incredibly helpful and everything worked...expect for downgrading to 4.6.3. It may be because I'm on a Mac, but nothing I tried seemed to work. That is until I found this website that worked to perfection. Hopefully anyone else on a Mac finds it useful as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, ADB is different on every system, and can be a pain in the ass to set up. The Lifehacker article I linked should cover everything, but if Mac users want to delve a little deeper, then the link you followed is a good way to go. I'm glad you were able to get things working!
So I am from one of those countries where Google Now/Now on Tap is not supported by Google. But I still want to enable it anyway...Need HELP.
It says 'This account is not eligible to use google now'. I have tried all the fix available on the internet but failed. Those are specially not working because they are for lollipop or for previous versions of Android; not for Marshmallow.
CAN ANYONE PLEASE HELP??
BTW, I am looking for both Rooted/non-Rooted methods..
Have you tried xposed framework? I saw that it's available for Marshmallow. It's what I used on my N4 to activate some US-only features because I had my system set to German.
pkadavid said:
Have you tried xposed framework? I saw that it's available for Marshmallow. It's what I used on my N4 to activate some US-only features because I had my system set to German.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I haven't. But I guess that would be a worthy try.. Okay, let's just say it's an option but before Rooting, I wanna try any other possible way.. Thanks..
So it's functional for all of you guys living outside the 'supporting countries'?
I was hoping there must be a way without Rooting... I want to use Google Now, please HELP!!!
change language to english
CerB said:
change language to english
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks but nothing worked.. It says 'This account is not eligible to use google now'.
I have tried to access US google play store through VPN but it didn't work. And Market Unlocker may work but it requires Root, which I don't want to do this early..
I was searching for a way to get past this too. Finally stumbled upon one after hours of messing around. Worked for me, hope it works for you too.
1. First download hotspot shield or any other vpn app from the playstore.
2. Disable google play services and sign out from your google account.
3. In Settings, go to location and choose "device only".
4. Download google play services from your browser.
5. Start hotspot shield and change location to America or any place where google now is available.
6. Install google play services that you've downloaded via your web browser (Please note that you have to allow installation of apps from unknown sources which can be done in security)
7. Sign in to your google account. You should be able to activate google now under Settings > Now Cards.
8. Once activated, uninstall google play services update that you've installed or disable it again and re-enable it. (If you are able to download apps from the playstore, then you can skip steps 8 to 11)
9. Turn off hotspot shield.
10. Go to apps, search for google playstore and clear data and cache.
11. Now go to google now and select update google play services.
Google Now should work now.
gamer147 said:
I was searching for a way to get past this too. Finally stumbled upon one after hours of messing around. Worked for me, hope it works for you too.
1. First download hotspot shield or any other vpn app from the playstore.
2. Disable google play services and sign out from your google account.
3. In Settings, go to location and choose "device only".
4. Download google play services from your browser.
5. Start hotspot shield and change location to America or any place where google now is available.
6. Install google play services that you've downloaded via your web browser (Please note that you have to allow installation of apps from unknown sources which can be done in security)
7. Sign in to your google account. You should be able to activate google now under Settings > Now Cards.
8. Once activated, uninstall google play services update that you've installed or disable it again and re-enable it. (If you are able to download apps from the playstore, then you can skip steps 8 to 11)
9. Turn off hotspot shield.
10. Go to apps, search for google playstore and clear data and cache.
11. Now go to google now and select update google play services.
Google Now should work now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will try.
No ROOT is required here in this method, right?
shufal said:
I will try.
No ROOT is required here in this method, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. No root required
NOPE. It didn't work.. When turning on Now Cards, it is disabled and says 'not available in your country'.
Seems Hotspot Shield didn't work. Probably Rooting and trying would be only option..
FINALLY, this works for me: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/guide-enable-google-cards-country-t3102472
This guide is to meant to attempt to save valuable time and frustration from anyone who needs google's contact sync.
Please keep all discussions polite.
So I need google apps on a daily basis and i tried to set up google on the chinese ROM .
And of course there is no Google contacts app so you need to put it in yourself.
I have looked at several guides and threads from XDA and MIUI Forum but they didn't seem to touch the critical steps for getting the contacts to sync with google.
After 2 days of trying...literally.., i figured out how to set the contact sync up reliably, not "reboot it and it will work after the reboot" sorta result.
If the following steps don't work for you, please let me know...I have tried this on 2 MIX 3's and they all worked after first attempt.
1, Enable google play services in Settings app -> system apps -> google play services
2, Download the Google play store from Apk Mirror:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/googl...8-23-all-0-pr-224256688-android-apk-download/
and the google contacts sync adapter:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/googl.../google-contacts-sync-9-android-apk-download/
And install them.
3, Open google play store, log in, and install Google contacts from the play store.
4, Give permissions to google contacts and contact sync adapter
*** Above steps are common to the threads i have read, and below are the key points ***
5, Enable on developer options by goto Settings->my phone(or something like that) -> full specs and tap MIUI version 7 times.
6, Go to settings -> additional settings -> developer options , scroll to the very bottom (last item) and disable "MIUI optimizations". Will explain why in later steps.
7, Download an "app permission setting" app such as (but not limited to) this one:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fdd2hdd.AppPermissionInfo
8, Open the permission settings app and find Google contacts and Google contact sync adapter apps and grant all their required permission.
Once you are here you should notice that, the permission GUI opened from this permission app is different. The GUI here is more AOSP style, or vanilla android style, and this is what we need. The permission GUI from MIUI layer doesn't allow you to set this up.
******* End of the key steps************
9, Now if you go to settings->accounts->Google, you should see "contacts" in the sync options and it should work. If not, well, reboot lol, i think it should appear.
If this works for you, a "Thanks" button press is very much appreciated.
kezzuki said:
This guide is to meant to attempt to save valuable time and frustration from anyone who needs google's contact sync.
Please keep all discussions polite.
So I need google apps on a daily basis and i tried to set up google on the chinese ROM .
And of course there is no Google contacts app so you need to put it in yourself.
I have looked at several guides and threads from XDA and MIUI Forum but they didn't seem to touch the critical steps for getting the contacts to sync with google.
After 2 days of trying...literally.., i figured out how to set the contact sync up reliably, not "reboot it and it will work after the reboot" sorta result.
If the following steps don't work for you, please let me know...I have tried this on 2 MIX 3's and they all worked after first attempt.
1, Enable google play services in Settings app -> system apps -> google play services
2, Download the Google play store from Apk Mirror:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/googl...8-23-all-0-pr-224256688-android-apk-download/
and the google contacts sync adapter:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/googl.../google-contacts-sync-9-android-apk-download/
And install them.
3, Open google play store, log in, and install Google contacts from the play store.
4, Give permissions to google contacts and contact sync adapter
*** Above steps are common to the threads i have read, and below are the key points ***
5, Enable on developer options by goto Settings->my phone(or something like that) -> full specs and tap MIUI version 7 times.
6, Go to settings -> additional settings -> developer options , scroll to the very bottom (last item) and disable "MIUI optimizations". Will explain why in later steps.
7, Download an "app permission setting" app such as (but not limited to) this one:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fdd2hdd.AppPermissionInfo
8, Open the permission settings app and find Google contacts and Google contact sync adapter apps and grant all their required permission.
Once you are here you should notice that, the permission GUI opened from this permission app is different. The GUI here is more AOSP style, or vanilla android style, and this is what we need. The permission GUI from MIUI layer doesn't allow you to set this up.
******* End of the key steps************
9, Now if you go to settings->accounts->Google, you should see "contacts" in the sync options and it should work. If not, well, reboot lol, i think it should appear.
If this works for you, a "Thanks" button press is very much appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could just install Google installer v3 APK, let it install and go to contacts permission in settings and tick them all, job done
Mackay53 said:
Could just install Google installer v3 APK, let it install and go to contacts permission in settings and tick them all, job done
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes to his point u do need to uninstall contacts sync otherwise it won't install the sync app through installer.
souless poet said:
Yes to his point u do need to uninstall contacts sync otherwise it won't install the sync app through installer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chinese ROM doesn't have it installed so no need to uninstall it. Just run Google installer v3, set contacts permission and it works fine.
Mackay53 said:
Chinese ROM doesn't have it installed so no need to uninstall it. Just run Google installer v3, set contacts permission and it works fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I remember it does. That however may be the dev rom as I only set up the stock room once while I set up the dev rom multiple times. Dev rom install of contacts sync will fail.
Install Google installer v3 APK, let it install and go to contacts permission in settings and tick them all, job done - this has helped. Thank you!
not sure what the problem is, followed this guide to a T and still can't get contacts to show up in my google account to sync it. everything else like Gmail works no problem. i have every permission checked. i've uninstalled and reinstalled. i have the AOSP like sliders to turn things on after going to developer settings.
for some reason instead of contacts i get a people details sync but nothing for contacts will show up. so frustrating.
ok i wiped data and started from scratch and unfortunately same results. ****ing hell this never happened with original mi mix. i guess i'm stuck waiting for the 72 hours to be able to unlock unless anyone has other ideas.
EDIT - ------ FINALLY I got this working. the key is you have to downgrade the calendar sync app to 8.1 - it would not work with 9.0 for me for some reason. once i did this and followed the rest of your instructions it finally worked for me
Worked excellent in Mi 11 Pro! at 2022, I only wonder about what I'm losing by disbling the optimizations, but at the beginning it seems not a big deal... thanks!