This is a little tool I put together after a post I made on the Rom Customizer thread.
This is only for linux only at the moment, but its simple enough that i may be able to get a batch file for you windows guys.
it comes with everything needed-including the option to install java if you dont have it
What it does is this
1. pulls the specified apk
2. takes a baskup -you can restore to the backup by running the restore script.
3. replaces an image file in drawable-mdpi with the one you provide.
4. re-zips and re-signs the app
5.pushes the app back to either /system or /data
this has only been tested on pre-installed app, ie no market apps.
Its pretty simple but it could be helpful, so let me know what you think.
Extract the working folder to your desktop please.
Related
Hello,
I need beta testers running Mac OS X to test a new application.
This application is for people who are either uncomfortable or unwilling to use Terminal and ./adb for pushing files to their device.
This first beta version is just to test how it works on different computers. It pushes the file to the sdcard of the phone using ./adb. The only input needed from the user is to select the file.
Later releases will let the user choose which folder on the device to copy to, but the next release will probably just involve pushing .apk to the /system/app folder.
Please let me know the results.
http://derekcwilkinson.com/PushFile.zip
Beta 2:
http://derekcwilkinson.com/Push_File_Beta_2.zip
Change Log:
Added option to choose the location that the file is to be pushed to.
Added Recovery application
Added Reboot application.
Planned Updates:
Pull File - Done
Device Backup - Testing (having issues)
Device Backup w/SD - Testing (having issues)
Install .apk - Done
Uninstall .apk
Restore Backup - Needs Device Backup
Restore Backup w/SD - Needs Device Backup
Flash ROM - Need help, PM me
I'll test it Downloading it now.
Works fine, I look forward to seeing it progress. I'll probably just use adb when I need to push something, but I'll keep testing whenever you update.
I've updated the first post with a new beta. This new beta includes:
Push file to specified location.
Reboot device
Reboot device into recovery.
derekwilkinson said:
Hello,
I need beta testers running Mac OS X to test a new application.
This application is for people who are either uncomfortable or unwilling to use Terminal and ./adb for pushing files to their device.
This first beta version is just to test how it works on different computers. It pushes the file to the sdcard of the phone using ./adb. The only input needed from the user is to select the file.
Later releases will let the user choose which folder on the device to copy to, but the next release will probably just involve pushing .apk to the /system/app folder.
Please let me know the results.
http://derekcwilkinson.com/PushFile.zip
Beta 2:
http://derekcwilkinson.com/Push_File_Beta_2.zip
Change Log:
Added option to choose the location that the file is to be pushed to.
Added Recovery application
Added Reboot application.
Planned Updates:
Pull File - Ready
Device Backup - Testing
Device Backup w/SD - Testing
Install .apk
Uninstall .apk
Restore Backup
Restore Backup w/SD
Flash ROM - Need help, PM me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nice this looks like it could be the underpinnings of droid explorer for Mac.
gunnyman said:
nice this looks like it could be the underpinnings of droid explorer for Mac.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It could be, but I'm going to need someone to help me create the UI for running the scripts. Right now they are all just separate applications
derekwilkinson said:
It could be, but I'm going to need someone to help me create the UI for running the scripts. Right now they are all just separate applications
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps, since it's free, you could build the whole thing to run as a Safari extension? I don't know how feasible this is, just spitballing ideas.
Well I just finished the app to install applications. This could be especially useful for newbies who want to install custom applications. All they have to do is select the .apk and it installs.
The .apk installer is now ready for download.
http://derekcwilkinson.com/Derek_Wi...0/6/9_Push_File_for_Android__Install_APK.html
Just downloaded... I'll give it a try, thanks
Something very similar is being developed or Windows and Linux, maybe you can use it or work with the developer to get a working port to MAC. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=683223
As a Mac user, it's very much appreciated that people like you put an effort to developing for our platform. Resources are very scarce and people new to Android are often discouraged with the more advanced stuff of the OS.
srkmagnus said:
Something very similar is being developed or Windows and Linux, maybe you can use it or work with the developer to get a working port to MAC. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=683223
As a Mac user, it's very much appreciated that people like you put an effort to developing for our platform. Resources are very scarce and people new to Android are often discouraged with the more advanced stuff of the OS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great idea, it would be nice to allow users to browse the device for files. Right now, unless an app is being installed, they have to know the name of the file and location
Title says it all. I've seen this question asked but too many times I see people saying. "Use Search Function"
The search function has been scoured and I see plenty of great apps that restore and backup apps, contacts, etc.. none restore data WITHIN the apps.
Is there an app that backs up DATA within the apps not just the apps.
Thank you,
come again.
Titanium backup backs up my apps plus all system data
I'd like to know this too, with possible Rom coming in September I'm desperate to make the change over as smooth as possible.
post in general section
Mooved
Good question. I use MyBackup (online) for saving my data - but only sms-contacts..
If you find an app that save all you need, please post its name here ^^
thx
The process is quite complex (at least the way I do it) but it can be done!
Note: YOU NEED LINUX FOR THIS (or if you're brave you can mess with the tools on this site: http://www.chrysocome.net/download. success is not guaranteed. Still post about your experiences though )
Note: Steps 1 to 3 are not always necessary, it depends on which Android build you are using.
1) Give Root Explorer (or a similar file explorer app - must be able to access system/data files) root access
2) Locate the folders containing the user data you want to backup, this is usually somewhere near /data/data. The folders have various naming conventions and dont always contain the name of the app (i'll check and edit this post if i have time)
3) Change the folder's permission settings - I usually just permit everything
4) Shut down Android and in one way or another, mount your sd card on your Linux machine, and locate your data.img or userdata.img file.
5) Open a command line window, enter the following:
Code:
sudo mount -o loop data.img /mnt/data
Note: you might need to create the folder you are mounting too
Note: sudo not always neccesary
Note: change data.img to userdata.img, you'll know if this applies to you
6) Browse to the folder containing the data you want to backup and copy it onto your computer. DONE!
You can restore these backups on a different build by using the same method, just in reverse. Also, don't forget to check if the same folder already exists, if yes, it can be extremely annoying to find you dont have permission to change/overwrite it!
I used this to copy all of my saved games, i especially didn't want to loose my Asphalt 5 progress
P.S. if this solves your problem, please change the title of this thread to simplify things for other users
Thanks Kev007, I'll try this
filou75 said:
Thanks Kev007, I'll try this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While it is good to know how to do this stuff, just download Titanium from the market. It backs up all apps plus data in about a minute. You can restore individually or in batches using filters. Search around there is lots of info on this app.
It is great to learn some basic Linux stuff. It will help when you are trying to do things in Android. If you have no intention of learning Linux, Titanium is the way to go.
that be good actually - on my last android reinstall I lost my paper toss high score (allbeit only 3 pmsl) but still seems like a good thought considerin the games etc with save data.
Seconded - Titanium Backup preserves all my app data.
This is one of the reasons I love Android over WinMo - backing up app data is practically a nobrainer when you have the right tool.
+1 on Titanium Backup.
Works great on all builds. Just don't try to restore native HTC apps/data from sense to vanilla Froyo.
Kev007 said:
The process is quite complex (at least the way I do it) but it can be done!
Note: YOU NEED LINUX FOR THIS (or if you're brave you can mess with the tools on this site: http://www.chrysocome.net/download. success is not guaranteed. Still post about your experiences though )
Note: Steps 1 to 3 are not always necessary, it depends on which Android build you are using.
1) Give Root Explorer (or a similar file explorer app - must be able to access system/data files) root access
2) Locate the folders containing the user data you want to backup, this is usually somewhere near /data/data. The folders have various naming conventions and dont always contain the name of the app (i'll check and edit this post if i have time)
3) Change the folder's permission settings - I usually just permit everything
4) Shut down Android and in one way or another, mount your sd card on your Linux machine, and locate your data.img or userdata.img file.
5) Open a command line window, enter the following:
Code:
sudo mount -o loop data.img /mnt/data
Note: you might need to create the folder you are mounting too
Note: sudo not always neccesary
Note: change data.img to userdata.img, you'll know if this applies to you
6) Browse to the folder containing the data you want to backup and copy it onto your computer. DONE!
You can restore these backups on a different build by using the same method, just in reverse. Also, don't forget to check if the same folder already exists, if yes, it can be extremely annoying to find you dont have permission to change/overwrite it!
I used this to copy all of my saved games, i especially didn't want to loose my Asphalt 5 progress
P.S. if this solves your problem, please change the title of this thread to simplify things for other users
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now THIS is an answer. I knew I wasnt the only one trying to do this. I dont need to backup the APPS because I already have them backed up oin my PC.
My buddy has a linux box ill try this with. Thanks.
PS. To the titanium suggestions. I've tried that. Doesnt seem to save game states or 3rd party app preferences...
My wife has a NC and likes it the way it is, i.e. BN store, but I would like to add an app that does not require root. I was thinking that I could use a clockwork recovery SD card with a zip of the app, just like we do with google apps.
Will this work?
How do I make a apk into a flashable zip?
The app is You Version Bible
Thanks
-EDIT-
So I have figured this out, it is possible to install apps (that do not require root) with out rooting anything. I would call it side loading via CWM sd card.
The key was to use the mount paths from ManualNooter (\META-INF\com\google\android\updater-script)
0.1.) Get apks for you apps (either with titanium or copy from 'data/app')
0.2.) Get a apk for 'Nook Color App Manager' (search the android market, can't post links yet)
1.) Start with the ManualNooter file and remove all folders but 'data' and 'META-INF'
2.) Delete all files in the 'data/app' folder
3.) Place the apks you want to install in the 'data/app' folder
4.) Edit '\META-INF\com\google\android\updater-script' using a programing text editor (otherwise you will not see the line spaces) remove all sections except the following: 'Mounting partitions...' 'Installing apks to /data/app...' 'Unmounting Partitions...'
5.) Save the script file and put all this back together in the zip.
6.) Use the CWM sd card to install the file. (if you don't know how, use google)
7.) Remove card and reboot after done. A new app App Manager will show up in your nook app list, go to the home page to run it and add links for your new installed apps.
Note: I did not post an files as I used other peoples work i.e. GMPOWER and apps from the market
So I have done lots of research and even tried this. I think I got the app installed but in this case there is no way to show the app in the stock launcher as it only lists apps it installs.
For reference I will include the procedure to install apps via CMW(Clockwork Mod Recovery)
Thread
You download the file attached to post 17 in the above thread, it is a empty zip that can be filled with your apks that you want. Simply place the new file on a CWM sd card and install the file via regular instructions in the above post.
If I ever find a script to add a link to the stock launcher I will post that and then this might be a usable idea for side loading apps.
We have finally figured out how to change the boot video. This is the part where it says OUYA right before showing the launcher. Most people probably know this and that the video is part of the launcher apk. It is possible to switch the video out for one of our choice.
Here is a link showing our custom boot up vid.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmlyDxR7JMg
And another link to a write up I did so anyone can customize their own.
http://burdbroscustomarcade.us/forums/topic/how-to-create-your-own-ouya-boot-video/
These are the directions on how to have your own custom boot video when your OUYA starts up. This does not change the boot animation that comes before the video. If that’s what you are looking to do you can find info on that here. http://ouyabrew.com/custom-boot-animations-for-ouya/ This is my first guide so if you think I should add or change anything let me know.
Warning!!! Please Read!!!
If you do not follow these steps exactly and don’t have another launcher installed all you will get is a black screen. This can be fixed with adb though so it doesn't actually brick your ouya. I highly recommend installing a backup launcher in case something doesn’t work.
Your OUYA must be rooted for this to work and the system\ folder properties need to be set to RW so you can replace the launcher apk. You can do this under tools in es file explorer(turn on root explorer, mount r/w) and can be found in settings or properties on most other file explorers.
I’ll just go step by step of how I did it. You may know some of this but I will try to be as thorough as possible. I used apktool to decompile then recompile it. Make sure the apk is in the same folder as apktool. Otherwise you just have to include the entire path for the files and folders.
First off copy the file OUYALauncher.apk from syatem\app\ on your OUYA to your computer. Then install apktool on your computer. It works on both PC and mac. A Google search will find it quickly.
At this point it is a good idea to make a copy of your launcher and save it somewhere for backup just in case.
To decompile:
apktool d OUYALauncher.apk outputfolder\
outputfolder\ can be whatever you want. Just make sure to keep it consistent with all apktool commands.
Then switch out the video in the outputfolder\build\apk\res\raw\boot_video.mp4 with whatever mp4 you want. Just make sure to rename it exactly as the one you are replacing. In theory you could do the same for the audio but I haven’t tested this yet.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 5/24/14 The new update for the OUYA now has 2 different videos, boot_video.mp4 and boot_video_long.mp4 in OUYALauncher.apk. I replaced both with my custom video and it worked fine just as before. Do not use any OUYALauncher.apk from one update version with another update. This can cause the stock launcher to stop working. Always start with a fresh copy of the file to be safe. And once again I suggest installing a secondary launcher as backup in case you do mess something up. It makes it much easier to fix.
To recompile:
apktool b outputfolder\ nameof.apk
It doesn’t matter what you use as nameof.apk because you will have to rename it after signing anyways.
Then to sign it I use the app zipsigner on my phone or tablet using the test key that it selects by default. Once you have the signed apk just rename to OUYALauncher.apk and copy to system\app\ on your Ouya. I used es file explorer on my ouya but any file explorer should work. Select overwrite when it prompts you. The screen will go black. If you have another launcher it will switch to it automatically. If not then I wait a few seconds to let it settle then unplug the OUYA and plug it back in and start it. As long as the file is named right and signed you should be greeted with your new video after the boot animation.
If you have any questions or need help feel free to ask
Saw a method a while ago for creating a portable android dev environment, however, i decided that i would post my method which i have used. So far, it seems to work rather well. I have not fully tested it though, and i will post any problems i find with it.
1. Create a directory for all files and folders (for instance, "Android_Dev")
2. Inside of that folder. Create a 2 more directories, one should be called "CommonFiles", and the other something sensible like "AndroidSDK"
3. First things first, download jPortable from here and install it to your "Android_Dev\CommonFiles" location
4. Now, Download Eclipse Portable from here and simply set it to install to "Android_Dev"
5. Finally. Head over to the google dev page right here and download the latest ADT bundle. DO NOT EXTRACT IT YET
6. Once you have downloaded the bundle, open up the .zip file, and copy the contents of the "sdk" folder to your "Android_Dev/AndroidSDK" folder
7. Now everything should be configured. Just open up the eclipse installation (Android_Dev\EclipsePortable\EclipsePortable.exe) and let Eclipse load
8. If it doesnt ask you to point to an Android SDK, just go to Window>Preferences>Android and point to the AndroidDev\AndroidSDK folder
9. You should now be able to access the Eclipse SDK manager and download the rest of the resources you will need through that!
DISCLAIMER: I have not extensively tested this, I simply installed it into my laptop (needed the software, didnt have admin rights). It may or may not work for you, if it works, drop a thanks! If it doesn't, reply below with the problem, or any fixes if you find one!
Issues
Doesn't use the latest Eclipse version