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Hi everyone,
I just got my n4 and love it but would like to be able to download apps/games off the net and install them. What do I need to do? I'm very new to this as I've come from iPhone jailbreaking I know it's different.
Thanks
T
You need to go to settings, Security and allow non market apps.
gypsy214 said:
You need to go to settings, Security and allow non market apps.
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Click to collapse
So That means I can download paid versions of apps and install them? What does "rooting" do? Cheers
T
you cant discuss illegal apk stuff on the forums here. you're on your own.
Understood thanks anyway
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
You don't need to root. Hypothetically, let's say you didn't have access to the Play Store and wanted to download and install apps. Just find the apk file for it, such as "File Manager APK," transfer to your phone, then click it to install it. It might ask you to go to settings to allow Unknown Downloads, and if it asked, do so. Only use this for free apps =D
Ah okay perfect! What is rooting for then? Also does anyone know a site that specializes in free APS? Not paid necessarily just apks to get
Sent from my Nexus 4
Rooting helps with some apps that require it in particular, such as Titanium Backup. Rooting alone just helps unlock a few features, although it doesn't add anything until you act (unlike Jailbreaking which adds in Cydia and such). Read here
As for the free apps you can't get from Google Play, just searching on Google might bring something up.
I prefer to just install over adb.
Code:
adb install *.apk
T89 said:
So That means I can download paid versions of apps and install them? What does "rooting" do? Cheers
T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just pay for them. I used to do what you're talking about and its ****, not only was I ripping developers off and stifling their innovation, I was also wasting time looking for new updates and finding fixes
I don't sideload any paid apps now, if I like the app enough to want to look for the apk, I'll buy it ... If I can't afford it, I add it to my wishlist and purchase it when I can
Sent from my Nexus 4
Also, you should remember there is a risk on installing apps from an unknown source.
If you don't want to use the Play Store, you can download some APKs here, on XDA. Those apps are non-commercial versions released by the greatest developers in the world: http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1913 , http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=530 .
Awesome cheers for the heads up I think ill pass on getting the paid stuff for free
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Okay, I have a question;
There are some free apps that aren't available in some countries. Also, there are some free apps available on specific websites only which aren't on the Play Store (like free apps on XDA, Swype).
I tried emailing a free app to my friend- he has a Nexus 4- but it won't allow him to download the .apk file on his phone and run it. I've also tried to send .apk files to a Galaxy Nexus via Bluetooth but it says that the file isn't supported and fails to be sent on the phone!
Is there a solution to this or is the answer to simply transfer the file via the USB cable?
DeadSOL said:
Okay, I have a question;
There are some free apps that aren't available in some countries. Also, there are some free apps available on specific websites only which aren't on the Play Store (like free apps on XDA, Swype).
I tried emailing a free app to my friend- he has a Nexus 4- but it won't allow him to download the .apk file on his phone and run it. I've also tried to send .apk files to a Galaxy Nexus via Bluetooth but it says that the file isn't supported and fails to be sent on the phone!
Is there a solution to this or is the answer to simply transfer the file via the USB cable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How are you sending the APK file? Through email? I know some emails block out files that can be 'dangerous'. For example, gmail doesn't let you transfer exe files.
What is the exact error that he's experiencing?
Sfkn2 said:
How are you sending the APK file? Through email? I know some emails block out files that can be 'dangerous'. For example, gmail doesn't let you transfer exe files.
What is the exact error that he's experiencing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or he may upload the file to sites such as mediafire. Or change the "Tail" of the file, from exe to anything else, or zip it.
Sfkn2 said:
How are you sending the APK file? Through email? I know some emails block out files that can be 'dangerous'. For example, gmail doesn't let you transfer exe files.
What is the exact error that he's experiencing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the .apk file stored on my memory card of my Galaxy S3. I simply attached it to Gmail and sent it to his email address through my phone. I know for a fact that Gmail does not block .apk files so there's no need to zip them! He said that the phone would not let him install it. I really hope that he has "Unknown Sources" ticked. That would be embarrassing if he hasn't allowed that (he's new to Android and lives far away so it's hard to get a quick reply from him).
But onto my point of sending the .apk file via Bluetooth; it simply would not allow me to send it to a Galaxy Nexus (yes, I know this is a Nexus 4 forum but I feel that I'd experience the same issue on a Nexus 4). The file was not compatible, apparently (although it ran and installed fine on my Galaxy S3).
I simply don't have a Nexus device to test these things with and my friends keep asking me such questions that's why I'm asking around. It'd be great to know the answer so that I can fully recommend Nexus devices to iPhone users.
I've been able to get most of the Google Apps working in the Kindle Fire HDX with simple sideload and adding account. Below is the video showing the apps working. Follow the link below for instructions and the second link to download the Google apps.
Instructions to add Google account: http://androidcowboy.com/2013/10/add-google-account-kindle-fire-hdx/
Download Google Apps: http://androidcowboy.com/android-apk-files-download/
Errors
Hey man, this is great for the most part. However I followed your steps and I constantly get service errors no matter what I'm running. Have you gotten these errors to stop? Also have you found anything more about getting the play store to work?
Thanks,
Sean
Google play not working. Gmail is though. I'm using the play store by logging in via the silk browser, but unlike with the nexus 7 I just returned, I can't get the paid versions I've already bought for my Android phone. Im NOT paying rwice for the same apps (ie Poweramp). I like the Kindle overall, don't mind its Amazon overlay, but completely resent their blocking me from using their competitor's app-store. If they want to really go toe 2 toe with Google, let them develop a full new yet redundant operating system that rivals OSX & Android. Guess I'll have to root. Is not like they own every Kindle & we're just renting like the cable box for $10/mo.
These are not the droids you're looking for.
Yeah, I'm unable to get Google Play to work with this method, and it creates a lot of errors with services and wireless connections in the process.
For all of you having problems: did you also download and install google play services as well? I hear thats required for a lot of the gapps to work.
I can confirm the following apps work with signin and sync and so on:
Maps
Keep
Play Music
Youtube
Drive
Chrome Beta
Gmail
I did need to install play services 3.2.66. And i do get random "com.google.android.gapps" crashes even when not using a google app, but it is easily dismissed.
Hmm i see that the google services framework are version 4.0.4-338691, and the google account manager is 4.0.3-239410. Perhaps it would be better to use 4.2.2 versions (if they exist) ?
Anyone seen those around in apk format? (i've only seen them in the gapps packages for cm10.x and i think they need to be repacked, which i do not know how to do...)
check goo.im for gapps packages you need.
http://goo.im/gapps
someone0 said:
check goo.im for gapps packages you need.
http://goo.im/gapps
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Click to collapse
That's exactly what i did. But those come in a .zip for flashing on top of a AOSP rom without google stuff. I'm pretty sure you can't just extract the apks and install them (at least not the one i tried). As i mentioned i expect they need to be repacked in proper apk form, which is something i do not know how to do.
Android Cowboy said:
I've been able to get most of the Google Apps working in the Kindle Fire HDX with simple sideload and adding account. Below is the video showing the apps working. Follow the link below for instructions and the second link to download the Google apps.
Instructions to add Google account: http://androidcowboy.com/2013/10/add-google-account-kindle-fire-hdx/
Download Google Apps: http://androidcowboy.com/android-apk-files-download/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't quite follow you. Are you downloading ALL these files to your computer and then transferring them to the HD Fire ? I am not a tech person at all and this just seems to be over my head to do.
Jilxz said:
I don't quite follow you. Are you downloading ALL these files to your computer and then transferring them to the HD Fire ? I am not a tech person at all and this just seems to be over my head to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's would be one way to do it. Or if you go to the web page using your Kindle Silk Browser then you can download directly to your Kindle Fire HDX.
Epedemic said:
That's exactly what i did. But those come in a .zip for flashing on top of a AOSP rom without google stuff. I'm pretty sure you can't just extract the apks and install them (at least not the one i tried). As i mentioned i expect they need to be repacked in proper apk form, which is something i do not know how to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's simply a zip file containing the files GAPPS use and the command instruction including where to put all the files. At the moment, since there is no root, it's not possible to write some files to the system folder/directory. But for the APK files, if you install them it would put them on the user application space rather than system application space like normal GAPPS do on custom ROM(s). That said, not all the google apps will require those files to be in the system space. So, no worry there. You would simply unzip the file and try to install the apks and move the files to the user space if you can. That's the best you could do for now. I could write a little script file to do that as I did on the Nook HD+. Hence that's the root and GAPPS was done in the Nook HD+ at the beginning. I'm not gonna bother writing any script as I'm still waiting for my 2nd replacement unit. If this thing goes south again, I would just return the device and wait to see if I would get the new 2013 Nexus 7/10. I might even keep my eyes open for those 8inches Windows 8.1 tablet also.
Are notifications and background sync working for Gmail? I've read conflicting reports.
Thanks!
i dont know if this is known but, i just downloaded the latest google services, search and youtube app, i now have all cards in my google now, and signed into youtube.
Just thought id throw it out there
angry english said:
i dont know if this is known but, i just downloaded the latest google services, search and youtube app, i now have all cards in my google now, and signed into youtube.
Just thought id throw it out there
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Any more of those annoying FCs? Did you just install the apks and nothing else? Where did you get them from?
I've not tried it for a week or so but ended up just removing the google stuff as it just kept crashing.
Spec-Chum said:
Any more of those annoying FCs? Did you just install the apks and nothing else? Where did you get them from?
I've not tried it for a week or so but ended up just removing the google stuff as it just kept crashing.
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Click to collapse
No FC at all works fine, all I did was go to Google play, search for the apps, find the version numbers, and downloaded through websites on Google search, Android police have them if I remember rightly, all I did was I stall the apks through es file explorer
Spec-Chum said:
Any more of those annoying FCs? Did you just install the apks and nothing else? Where did you get them from?
I've not tried it for a week or so but ended up just removing the google stuff as it just kept crashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I keep a running list of updated Google apps here. But even though I have the latest Google Play Services, I still get the FC on my hdx.
angry english said:
No FC at all works fine, all I did was go to Google play, search for the apps, find the version numbers, and downloaded through websites on Google search, Android police have them if I remember rightly, all I did was I stall the apks through es file explorer
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Click to collapse
When you say latest "services" do you mean Google Services Framework or Google Play Services? What version of each do you have installed?
No more google crashes after many resets and installs of Google service. Its possible. Everything is working without errors .otherwise I would of kept it off. I installed vending.apk inside system and outside... followed cowboy's instructions..very happy. I'm rooted though
Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Chief85 said:
When you say latest "services" do you mean Google Services Framework or Google Play Services? What version of each do you have installed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 to @Chief85 question, which one was it @angry english ?
Just a tip I've been tinkering with since root came out: I have an Android phone, rooted with ES File Explorer. Backing up apps using this service stores relevant APKs in sdcard/backups/apps. Using Bittorrent Sync, this folder can be shared across mobile devices without having a sync folder on a computer. Follow these steps for a somewhat seamless connection:
1) Install ES File Explorer and Bittorrent Sync on your Android phone.
2) Root your HDX and install ES File Explorer and Bittorrent Sync.
3) On your phone using ES File Explorer's App Manager, back up the apps you want on your HDX.
4) On your phone, open Bittorrent Sync and select the BACKUP tab. Add a new folder, sdcard/backups/apps. Email the secret to yourself.
5) On your HDX, open your email and copy your phone's secret. Then open Bittorrent Sync and add a new Sync folder. Set the folder you want the APKs downloaded to, and paste the copied secret.
Apps backed up on your phone will now automatically appear in your designated HDX folder. Every time your HDX's Play Store fails to retrieve an update, back up the updated app on your phone, wait for sync to occur, and install the APK on your HDX.
I hope this is helpful to some. I'm excited to be able to give back to the community, even if it's just done stupid small hack.
Just a note that it is unlikely you will be able to keep Maps up to date this way. There seems to be a defined split between 4.2.2 and later Android versions. I have not found another app with similar behavior, but it is possible given the current Android environment.
As an update, for anyone interested
evilgrin98 said:
Just a tip I've been tinkering with since root came out: I have an Android phone, rooted with ES File Explorer. Backing up apps using this service stores relevant APKs in sdcard/backups/apps. Using Bittorrent Sync, this folder can be shared across mobile devices without having a sync folder on a computer. Follow these steps for a somewhat seamless connection:
1) Install ES File Explorer and Bittorrent Sync on your Android phone.
2) Root your HDX and install ES File Explorer and Bittorrent Sync.
3) On your phone using ES File Explorer's App Manager, back up the apps you want on your HDX.
4) On your phone, open Bittorrent Sync and select the BACKUP tab. Add a new folder, sdcard/backups/apps. Email the secret to yourself.
5) On your HDX, open your email and copy your phone's secret. Then open Bittorrent Sync and add a new Sync folder. Set the folder you want the APKs downloaded to, and paste the copied secret.
Apps backed up on your phone will now automatically appear in your designated HDX folder. Every time your HDX's Play Store fails to retrieve an update, back up the updated app on your phone, wait for sync to occur, and install the APK on your HDX.
I hope this is helpful to some. I'm excited to be able to give back to the community, even if it's just done stupid small hack.
Just a note that it is unlikely you will be able to keep Maps up to date this way. There seems to be a defined split between 4.2.2 and later Android versions. I have not found another app with similar behavior, but it is possible given the current Android environment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since I lost root after the update, I've fallen back on using this trick to get my Play apps on my HDX. Now it's just become one silly step easier:
BitTorrent Sync Now Available on the Kindle Fire
Why its release is covered in GalleyCat, I don't know... but since it was, I thought I'd update here. BTSync isn't root, but it's something, and effective, and really easy to implement. I personally prefer this solution to 3rd party market apps.
evilgrin98 said:
Since I lost root after the update, I've fallen back on using this trick to get my Play apps on my HDX. Now it's just become one silly step easier:
BitTorrent Sync Now Available on the Kindle Fire
Why its release is covered in GalleyCat, I don't know... but since it was, I thought I'd update here. BTSync isn't root, but it's something, and effective, and really easy to implement. I personally prefer this solution to 3rd party market apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cant found apk to download
No APK?!?!
eldecanopy said:
I cant found apk to download
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Click to collapse
Amazon must have pulled it from sale. If you have access to the Play store on another device, you can access the APK at the Play store, back it up using the method mentioned here, and share it to your Kindle via email, USB, or AirDroid. I can provide instructions for that if you like, though they're pretty similar to the instructions above.
Thanks. Gone try this when I get home.
Sent from my LG-D800 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
holeshot77 said:
Thanks. Gone try this when I get home.
Sent from my LG-D800 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any result of that.hmm,hope it's useful!
{CLOSED} [TUT] 1/11/2014 HDX8.9 Working Play Store, GAPPS & PARTIAL Amz Services...
I am no longer updating this thread. Currently, you best bet for everything working is SafeStrap, rom slot, Hashcode's Stock Fire Rom, Xposed module & the flashable gapps from Cpasjuste. I currently have a work load that precludes me from investigating anything further. Not too mention it seems other have the time & a better grasp on everything than I do. I will continue to help those stuck in bootloops or with issues as time permits. I recommend starting anew with your device, restoring the factory firmware, & then using safestrap & the other items mentioned above to get Play Store & Amazon working together.
Edited on 1/11/2014 - Added a fixed version of wget to the hdx.7z file to correct the gapps download rename issue.
READ ME FIRST OR YOUR DEVICE WILL EXPLODE, SCORCHING YOUR EYEBALLS!
If you have never modified an Android Device, if you have no idea what ADB is, how it is used & nearly every command memorized because you have been participating at xda for years or lurking for half a decade, if you do not know what the SDK, ANT, IDE or Ubuntu is, if you cannot afford to possibly throw away $300 to $600, then do yourself a favor & leave your Kindle alone. This is not a simple process, nor does it seem to work the same for everyone. I am NOT a developer. I also have a family & a career, which is very time consuming. I lost over a week in vacation days this past year because I rarely have time for myself, so that should tell you about how much time I am going to have for you if you break something. Sure, I will try to help WHEN I HAVE TIME, but if you are messing with things & then sending me a one line PM saying "I brick it" without any specifics about EVERYTHING you have done, well, I am not even going to respond. So, now you know, if you still want to mess around & possibly break some stuff, go right ahead.
EDIT: It seems if some Amazon services do fail to work for most people. books work fine for me, but not most others & the Amazon App store is not working 100% either. I am working on a fix.
Okay, firstly, I have to thank @Ptiwee who was the first to really bring all of the scattered data & info together, discovering the location in the Java/Smali, where the issue in getting Play Store to function correctly resided.
You will also find a lost pf tips & fixes in post #2. I will add to it as developments arise.
This is a step by step guide for the newer member that wants to learn. I have tried to be as precise as possible & list out every step, along with a few tips on getting your Android adventure started successfully. There are no dumb questions, except for those you should have asked. So ask away & we'll try to get you an answer you'll understand.
Now, we must thank @CrashThump who took Ptiwee's solution & instead of relying on the notoriously unreliable apktool & dependecies, he took the time to recompile a fixed binary in the form of new services.odex. This is exactly what I had been looking to do, but I have been having some troubles with aapt & apktool & he just probably knows a lot more than I do. Either way, it's here now & it works.
Be sure to hit thanks to those guys, for without there help, you would still be bootlooping & cursing Amazon under your breath.
This is NOT an easy or clean way to install GAPPS package, but it works perfectly & I for one have NOT lost a single Amazon service. It is relatively low risk if you follow directions & test that things are working before jumping in head first.
Here is what you need to do to install the Play Store & GAPPS (for now), until I or another member has the time to properly compile everything into an easy to use utility. The root & signature verification parts of this tool work well. The install GAPPS script can fail occasionally, but it will not hurt anything.
This guide is for use on windows, though I will later also present a terminal command version for Linux & possibly Mac. It will be a manual version for now & I will not get to it until later. Feel free to take the data here & compile it into whatever tool or utility you want. I don't think anyone would have an issue with that, just be sure to thank everyone mentioned in this post. you can also easily open the script & just manually do everything in the script for linux. Just make sure you also grabbed the tools like SED from Ptiwee's original script tool.
For this to work, you must be rooted & have busybox installed, along with completing the steps & requirements listed below. The script from CrashDump in the HDX.7z file can root your device, as well as install gapps, fix for signature checking & the wallpaper issue. I recommend downloading everything ahead of time, including the attached busybox installer. If you are already rooted, you can skip some steps, otherwise follow the directions closely.
1. Download the Windows batch file & the necessary scripts & binary from CrashDump named hdx.7z. It can be found below in the attachments.
EDIT (1/11/2014) - Added a different version of wget to fix the download rename issue..
Download & install a BusyBox installer on your device.
2. Ensure you have the latest Java SDK installed. The JDK can be found here: http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/downloads/jdk7-downloads-1880260.html
Make certain you install the version for your operating System, i.e. 32-bit or 64-bit.
For 32-bit (x86), the JDK you want is titled: jdk-7u45-windows-i586.exe
For 64-bit (x64), the JDK you want is titled: jdk-7u45-windows-x64.exe
I recommend installing it to the default directory.
Once you have this installed, make sure to add it to you PATH in Environmental Variables.
To do this, hit the Windows button (like you are going to open an app), or launch the file explorer & RIGHT CLICK on "Computer" & select "Properties".
.Go to "Advanced System Settings" & select the "Advanced" tab.
Select the "Environmental Variables" button towards the bottom right side of the window.
In the second window, "System Variables", scroll to "Path" & select edit.
Add your systems path to the recently installed version of the Java SDK (JDK) to "Variable Value:", it should look something like this:
C:\Program Files\Java\jdk1.6.0_33\bin; (make sure yours reflects your correct version & path to the JDK Bin directory. DO NOT JUST COPY/PASTE MINE). Also take care to have a semi-colon ( both before & after your path & DO NOT ALTER ANY OF THE OTHER VALUES.
I also recommend you add these file types to the entry below, called (PATHEXT):
.BAT;.CMD;.JS;.JSE;.SH
These two steps allow you to use these tools from any directory, telling tools & applications where to find the resources they need.
After installing the Java SDK (JDK), make sure you also have a "System Variable" entry called "JAVA_HOME" with a value that is the same as your environmental variable, pointing to your Java SDK Bin directory. Mine is "C:\Program Files\Java\jdk1.6.0_33\bin" (again, you need to have YOUR installed location, not mine, so do not copy/paste from here).
3. Ensure you have installed the Android SDK. You do NOT need Eclipse, just the SDK. It can be found here: http://dl.google.com/android/installer_r22.3-windows.exe
Install the SDK somewhere simple & avoid spaces in directory names. My SDK (when I bother to use Windows anymore, is C:/Android/
I use Eclipse, so for me, my directury tree is "C:/Android/sdk & C:/Android/eclipse" this is where all the important Android tools live, like ADP & AAPT & Fastboot, in /sdk/tools & /sdk/platform-tools.
4. The script & utilities used by CrashDump need several Linux based tools, like SED & a few others. Fortunately, the GnuWin32 package exists & can be downloaded here: http://sourceforge.net/projects/getgnuwin32/files/
This is a set of packages designed to work with Windows, It will download an executable & you will open it, paying attention to where it is downloading & extracting the packages. Once it is finished, you will go to what ever directory you selected for the "GetGnuWin32" folder & you will click on a script batch file named "download.bat. This will download all the GnuWin32 packages. Follow the instructions & let it download the updates as it goes.
Once this is complete, you will then go back into your "GetGnuWin32" folder. Now you will double click (execute/run) the script batch file named "install.bat".
This process takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on your machine & your download speed.
5. Connect your device to the USB port & give it time to install the proper drivers. Next, open a cmd window & enter: adb devices
If successful, you should see your device serial number listed, similar to this:
C:\Users\gleon>adb devices
List of devices attached
B0xxxxxxxxxSH device
If your device was recognized & you see something similar to the above, congratulations, you have installed the SDK successfully & are now ready for some action. If not, you may need to install the HDX adb drivers. If you are here, you have most likely already done most of the steps above anyways.
7. Extract the file HDX.7z to somewhere simple like C:/ or in your Android SDK directory.
Double click on the "HDX.bat" script & a terminal window will open with the following data:
Only for Kindle Fire HDX 8.9
WARNING ! All the manipulations here are dangerous.
Your tablet may become unstable or unusable.
Nobody except you will be considered as responsible.
What do you wanna do ?
1. Root my Kindle Fire HDX 8.9
2. Remove Amazon ads on lockscreen and some Amazon applications
3. Remove signature check (Requisite for Google Apps)
4. Install Google Apps
5. Fix wallpaper
6. Quit
Choice :
Select option #1 if you are NOT yet rooted. Once you root, open up the Superuser app & give it a minute. Make sure it is working & then install the attached busybox installer on your device & make sure to open it & install busybox & the applets. I suggest using the "Smart Install" feature. It will take a minute or two for it to load & install busybox, but please wait & ensure it installs successfully.
To install busybox, you can transfer it to your device & use a file explorer to navigate to the apk, OR you can use your newly installed SDK & open a cmd prompt in the folder you downloaded or extracted the bb installer & issue the following command (just the part in quotes, WITHOUT the quotes of course): c:\Android> "adb install busybox.apk"
It will say "successful" once busybox is installed. Open the app & let it setup. Then click on the "install" button & let it do its thing.
Once you are rooted, have busybox & Superuser installed, or If you are already rooted with both installed, you can move to the script tool's option # 3, "Remove signature check <Requisite for Google Apps>
This is going to replace the services.odex file from your devices /system/framework directory. It will restart the SystemUI, which means it will look like it has reboot, but do not panic, it will not boot loop your device, it will resume normally in a moment.
Once it is has restarted the SystemUI & the screen comes back on, you can now use option #4 "Install Google Apps".
Congratulations, you now have an Amazon HDX 8.9 with fully functioning GAPPS, including Play Store & you have all Amazon Services working.
Take wht you have learned & pass it along. This is a forum about sharing ideas & knowledge. Pay it forward.
I know this is written fairly simply, but I do this so that nobody will misunderstand. i know many of you know what you are doing, but there are new users & members here every day. I will do whatever I can to help you if you have issues & as you have seen, I have already been able to fix 2 types of soft bricks, so your risk is much more limited than even a few weeks ago.
Fixes, Tips & Tricks
Tips & Fixes:
1. For all of your Google Play installed app to show up in the app drawer, please delete versions in the "Cloud" tab of the App Drawer. (This only applies to the Stock Amazon launcher/app drawer).
2. Currently, all apps & Amazon Service work EXCEPT Amazon App store. A work around is listed below.
3. There is a work around for the Amazon App Store crash. It will work if you remove the existing app, delete the dalvik cache & then install the generic Amazon App Store for Android from here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/mas/get/android/ref=mas_rw_ldg
You will need an app like Titanium Backup Pro, which can remove unnecessary Dalvik files. This work around functions, however, the Amz App will crash occasionally. Also be sure you are uninstalling the App Store, not the IntentProxy, which also show as Apps in TB.
4. I have not thoroughly tested this, however from short testing, it appears that Kindle Free Time does indeed work. It will launch, allow password to be set & rules & times to be selected.
5. If you have any issues & want to return to 100% stock, I will be uploading a fixed build.prop, along with a script to download & ready the latest update. This will erase all changes in the device System partition, without removing installed apps in the user land, aka /data/app.
I'm looking forward to trying this when I get home! Thank you all for you hard work!!
Does this require root?
cbtk18 said:
Does this require root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Steps 1-6 is PC preparation to run step #7, for Kindle modification. You need 'option #1 - root' for any other option to work.
---------- Post added at 05:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:28 PM ----------
GSLEON3 said:
Tips & Fixes:
2. Currently, all apps & Amazon Service work EXCEPT Amazon App store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With Amazon App store not working, does this also include functionality of downloading of content locally in Freetime, Kindle, MP3, Video?
I've tried all known methods (except ptiwee/crashdump/yours) and I still haven't gotten a working App Store + content sync... All content requests show 'queued' indefinitely...
Thanks,
Alex
I can play, download & watch movies, music & books without issue. Only the Amazon app store has issues for me. Being one of the worst curated Android Markets around, I could care less, though I do plan on comparing it to the HD 8.9 DL manager, which functions 100% for everything.
My household all have tablets & my youngest is a teen, so no idea on Free time, but I'll check for you when I get everything back in place. I'm bricked again (on purpose & not from this, so don't worry) I'm trying to find a fix for another user with issues.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium HD app
Can we use the wallpaper fix? There was another thread saying wallpaper fix bricked their device (8.9). Is it ok to do here?
Amazon Appstore
will you find a way to get the amazon appstore to work
Now if only this could be ported to 7 ...great job
Sent from my KFTHWI using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
So I went ahead and applied the wallpaper fix built in this tool. It was fine. Although I did have a black screen for awhile, basically seemed dead for a couple minutes, which concerned me. Next step... how to get live wallpapers? I love this. Makes the 8.9 better than the 7" now. Functionally that is, minus the live wallpaper that is working with thor-gapps rom for the 7".
Yes no Amazon apps work at all on 7 but 1 person claims all is working on his but I don't see how with Thor gapps rom
Sent from my KFTHWI using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
davekaz said:
Now if only this could be ported to 7 ...great job
Sent from my KFTHWI using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nobody said step 7,options 2+ won't work on 7, it just hasn't been tested..... I would go back to ptiwee's original script to test, and as it modifies files from the device and doesn't rely on potentially device specific modified binaries...
Sent from my AT100 using Tapatalk 4
Thanks for a very good jobb, which give us all users of HDX 8.9 get a fantastic tablet. I do not understan what you mean with this lines, "For all of your Google Play installed app to show up in the app drawer, please delete versions in the "Cloud" tab of the App Drawer."? Where do I find "Cloud Tab?"
I use Nova launcher so mabe it´s not for me?
Thanks
lasset said:
Thanks for a very good jobb, which give us all users of HDX 8.9 get a fantastic tablet. I do not understan what you mean with this lines, "For all of your Google Play installed app to show up in the app drawer, please delete versions in the "Cloud" tab of the App Drawer."? Where do I find "Cloud Tab?"
I use Nova launcher so mabe it´s not for me?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're using Nova Launcher, then you're right, you likely won't care.
GSLEON3 is pointing out for those who choose to use the stock launcher app carousel and you're wondering why play store apps aren't showing up, it's due to a conflict between the existence of the app in Amazon App Cloud and the Google Play store. To resolve this, he's recommending you remove this from Amazon App Cloud...
Ok, thanks I understand and I stay in Nova.
Thanks and A Happy New Year from Sweden!
---------- Post added at 12:31 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:30 PM ----------
davekaz said:
Yes no Amazon apps work at all on 7 but 1 person claims all is working on his but I don't see how with Thor gapps rom
Sent from my KFTHWI using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone tried using the Amazon store app from the Google play store?
improvius said:
Has anyone tried using the Amazon store app from the Google play store?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great Idea. This may work. I'll have a try after morning coffee.
Has anyone tested this on the 7 inch HDX?
Is there any reason why this would/should not work on this model?
Thanks!
Guys, I am about 99% sure that you do not need the GnuWin32 packages for this to work. Duh... I forgot we are using a binary, not an on the fly rebuild like Ptiwee.
I'll test & modify instructions accordingly.
Sent from my KFAPWI using XDA Premium HD app
GSLEON3 said:
Guys, I am about 99% sure that you do not need the GnuWin32 packages for this to work. Duh... I forgot we are using a binary, not an on the fly rebuild like Ptiwee.
I'll test & modify instructions accordingly.
Sent from my KFAPWI using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks again for the all the hard work and persistence..
xda is about sharing and learning and "a man only owns what he knows"..
thanks again..great job!!
question though.. can i go ahead and try this on my kindle fire hdx 8.9 LTE 64GB?
A recent update to the Google Play services makes it crash, regardless of Android version. This is how i fixed it:
Requirements:
Root
A root file explorer
Google Play services APK (make sure to select right Android version and use arm + nodpi): http://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/google-play-services/google-play-services-10-0-84-release/
System app remover: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jumobile.manager.systemapp
Instructions:
Disable WiFi.
Use System app remover to uninstall Google Play services, this will make it revert to the factory supplied version.
Install the Google Play services apk. The 10.0.84 is the latest working version accordning to my tests.
Create two folders in \data\app and name them com.google.android.gms-1.apk and com.google.android.gms-2.apk. This will stop Google Play services from auto updating. You should be able to create at least one. Do not overwrite any existing file.
Restart and enable WiFi.
Credits:
ConnCarl: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/help/delete-disable-downgrade-prevent-update-t3091832
Some additional steps to the above.
If Google Play is broken, like it was on mine, you can't download the System app remover. I got it from http://www.apkmirror.com/apk/jumobi...-root-3-6-2019-android-apk-download/download/
(I do not know if that site is safe.)
Download APK to PC, transfer it over USB, and install it with Terminal Emulator.
Also, if you cannot download a File Explorer since Google Play is broken, try some APK like http://www.apkmirror.com/apk/es-glo...-manager-4-1-6-android-apk-download/download/
(again, no idea if that site is safe.)
and install it via Terminal...
Then finally you can click the Google Play services APK. (Or just install it via terminal since by now you know how to...)
NOTE: if you have TF101 with KatKiss 4.4.4 you can't use the one marked Android 4.4W+, it fails and you will wasting hours of your time like I did - use the Android 2.3 version.
---------- Post added at 02:53 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:53 AM ----------
After spending 3 hours of figuring out all the above details, I still got the "has stopped" popups, because I had created the file names in terminal as gsm instead of gms. Details are important...
I should add that I did get it working, with my manual installations etc. Thanks!
Works for hours, then PlayServices autoupdate... try 2 times.
Im using katkiss 6.0
My problem is that while trying to flash KK6.0 again it gets stuck on the "Checking connection" step and it continuously prompts the famous "Unfortunately, Google Play services has stopped". I have flashed old gapps (1st Feb) but problem persists.
I know there is a general issue about a gplay/gservices version but I am not sure how to proceed now....
This is my solution for Transformer TF101 on firmware KatKiss 4.4.4:
Install Lucky Patcher from here: dl1.revdownload.com/dl1/1701/Lucky_Patcher_v6.4.5__5557_Revdl.com.apk
Open Lucky Patcher, select "Search", type "Google"
Uninstall "Google Play", "Google Play Services" (I also uninstalled "Google App" forever cause I needn't it)
Download open gapps on 2017-07-31 from here: github.com/opengapps/arm/releases/download/20160731/open_gapps-arm-4.4-pico-20160731.zip
Disable Wi-fi
Reboot to TWRP recovery
Flash gapps, wipe cache/dalvik.
Now boot and create 2 folders in /data/app - com.google.android.gms-1.apk and com.google.android.gms-2.apk
Now you can turn on your Wi-fi
Here's my solution about installing right version of Youtube for this gapps and prevent Youtube app from updating. There's ZipSigner app which changes a certificate and "detaches" the app from Google Play. For Youtube app this method causes failure on startup with a security exception. Luckily, I've found another solution:
The latest working version is 11.41.56 on October 28, 2016. Download Youtube app from here: apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/youtube/youtube-11-41-56-release/youtube-11-41-56-21-android-apk-download/download
Disable Wi-fi
Uninstall current Youtube using Lucky Patcher
Now install downloaded version of Youtube
Create a folder com.google.android.youtube-2.apk in /data/app. There should be 1 file com.google.android.youtube-1.apk and 1 folder com.google.android.youtube-2.apk.
This solution should prevent a Youtube app from being updated by Google Play: it begins to update but at the end dialog shown which says there's insufficient storage space.
By the way, you can prevent auto-update for another Google app like Google Drive. Open Lucky Patcher, click on the app and select "App Info" and you'll see a detailed info. All you need to do is to create a folder with name like apk but "-1.apk" has to be replaced with "-2.apk"
Turn on Wi-fi
Phew, good to know it wasn't only me. I've been having this Services issue for some time now on the old 4.4.4 KatKiss, googling for it, updated to 6.0.1 but the problem starts as soon as I even try to install Google Play Services in any way (either flashing GAPPS or installing afterwards with an apk). The device works fine without the Services, but then I can't use Google Play...
So is it yet known who are affected? Is this only a TF101 problem, or are other devices (also non-ASUS ones) also affected? Or is this a KatKiss issue? Or what?
I don't feel like blocking Google from updating the services, that sounds like a stopgap solution that probably makes Services unusable in the long run. Hoping that e.g. Google fixes this problem with a new update...
Solution to my problem... But still need to wait until mr. Google decides to solve it
https://redirect.viglink.com/?forma...t=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5XjF6sPef4
timppu said:
So is it yet known who are affected? Is this only a TF101 problem, or are other devices (also non-ASUS ones) also affected? Or is this a KatKiss issue? Or what?
I don't feel like blocking Google from updating the services, that sounds like a stopgap solution that probably makes Services unusable in the long run. Hoping that e.g. Google fixes this problem with a new update...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, there are a lot of devices which faced with this issue. The reason why Google Services stopped working is so-called NEON instruction set for ARM chips. Our tablet has Nvidia Tegra 2 chip which does not support such command set! And no, that will not be fixed!
Here's a quote from the forum (bit.ly/2luHVwu):
If this started on or about the 9th it is due to Google putting ARM neon code into the last update. Older ARM chips do not have neon code functionality and are therefore screwed.
My 6 year old Asus TF101 with a Tegra 2 processor was still running like a champ with android 6.0.1 until last week.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forget Google, I am on AmazonApp now Shame on you, Google. Also set my search engine back on old Yahoo
ignasigh said:
My problem is that while trying to flash KK6.0 again it gets stuck on the "Checking connection" step and it continuously prompts the famous "Unfortunately, Google Play services has stopped". I have flashed old gapps (1st Feb) but problem persists.
I know there is a general issue about a gplay/gservices version but I am not sure how to proceed now....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was having it stop at the "Checking Connection" step too, realized I was using the 2017 gapps package instead of the 2016 one. Check to see if you're using the correct one. However, I'm still having the "Google Services" issue.
dape16 said:
A recent update to the Google Play services makes it crash, regardless of Android version. This is how i fixed it:
Requirements:
Root
A root file explorer
Google Play services APK (make sure to select right Android version and use arm + nodpi): http://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/google-play-services/google-play-services-10-0-84-release/
System app remover: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jumobile.manager.systemapp
Instructions:
Disable WiFi.
Use System app remover to uninstall Google Play services, this will make it revert to the factory supplied version.
Install the Google Play services apk. The 10.0.84 is the latest working version accordning to my tests.
Create two folders in \data\app and name them com.google.android.gms-1.apk and com.google.android.gms-2.apk. This will stop Google Play services from auto updating. You should be able to create at least one. Do not overwrite any existing file.
Restart and enable WiFi.
Credits:
ConnCarl: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/help/delete-disable-downgrade-prevent-update-t3091832
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was finally able to get it to work but had to omit the .apk part of the two folder names. UPDATE: sorry, that actually didn't work, in fact, at the moment, no matter what I try, I cannot stop it from updating at some point and having to start all over again...
I rolled back to ASUS 4.0.3 original firmware.
It is working fine for the last 5 days, as long you do not update any of Google apps. The original firmware still has Google Talk pre-installed.
The original firmware is so so slow, when compared with KatKiss 6.0.1 or KatKiss 4.4.4, but at least it is working fine. No FCs at all.
Please note that there are some recent apps that do not work with Ice Cream Sandwich (Android 4.0.3).
[]'s
Version Matters
kenpoh said:
I was finally able to get it to work but had to omit the .apk part of the two folder names.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kenpoh, what version of KatKiss?
I found the format of the info in the /data/apps folder different from 4.4.4 to 5.1 to 6.0. I was unable to get things to work with fresh 5.1 ROM flashes so went to 4.4.4 and creating the folder with the "-2.apk" worked in 4.4.4. I think the bottom line is you have to create a folder name that is the same name as the .apk file (with a -2) to "confuse" the auto-update.
Now that I know I can get 4.4.4 to work, I'll see if I can get 5.1 and/or 6.0 to work and share my findings.
UPDATE
OK - I gave up 6.0 required setup a WiFi connection before fully booting. 5.1 wouldn't let me load ES File Explorer from the terminal (failure uri something or other).
For 4.4.4, I:
- Downloaded ROM, SU, GAPPS, Google Play Services 10.0.84 from apkmirror.com
- Did a clean flash
- booted up installed ES File Explorer from terminal
- installed GPS 10.0.84
- reboot
- create folder using the "-2"
- reboot
All is well. I let everything update (including Google Play Games) and everything is running just fine.
Exterminator13 said:
This is my solution for Transformer TF101 on firmware KatKiss 4.4.4:
Install Lucky Patcher from here: dl1.revdownload.com/dl1/1701/Lucky_Patcher_v6.4.5__5557_Revdl.com.apk
Open Lucky Patcher, select "Search", type "Google"
Uninstall "Google Play", "Google Play Services" (I also uninstalled "Google App" forever cause I needn't it)
Download open gapps on 2017-07-31 from here: github.com/opengapps/arm/releases/download/20160731/open_gapps-arm-4.4-pico-20160731.zip
Disable Wi-fi
Reboot to TWRP recovery
Flash gapps, wipe cache/dalvik.
Now boot and create 2 folders in /data/app - com.google.android.gms-1.apk and com.google.android.gms-2.apk
Now you can turn on your Wi-fi
Here's my solution about installing right version of Youtube for this gapps and prevent Youtube app from updating. There's ZipSigner app which changes a certificate and "detaches" the app from Google Play. For Youtube app this method causes failure on startup with a security exception. Luckily, I've found another solution:
The latest working version is 11.41.56 on October 28, 2016. Download Youtube app from here: apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/youtube/youtube-11-41-56-release/youtube-11-41-56-21-android-apk-download/download
Disable Wi-fi
Uninstall current Youtube using Lucky Patcher
Now install downloaded version of Youtube
Create a folder com.google.android.youtube-2.apk in /data/app. There should be 1 file com.google.android.youtube-1.apk and 1 folder com.google.android.youtube-2.apk.
This solution should prevent a Youtube app from being updated by Google Play: it begins to update but at the end dialog shown which says there's insufficient storage space.
By the way, you can prevent auto-update for another Google app like Google Drive. Open Lucky Patcher, click on the app and select "App Info" and you'll see a detailed info. All you need to do is to create a folder with name like apk but "-1.apk" has to be replaced with "-2.apk"
Turn on Wi-fi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much for your post. It worked flawlessly!!!
I have a Moto Xoom which is also a Tegra 2 Non-Neon device that is experiencing this Google Play Services issue -
I just had a one-on-one chat with Google support. Since I am running a rooted Moto Xoom (Omni 4.4.4), the only advice Google one-on-one support could provide was to unroot and revert back to Stock (which is 4.1.2. on the Xoom) and/or contact Motorola for support. Google seems to be unwilling to investigate fixes unless folks that are running UNROOTED Tegra2 Non-Neon devices are also experiencing the same issue.
So, if you are running a non-rooted Tegra2 device (like your ASUS TF101's) and are having this issue, please contact Google one-on-one support and let them know via https://support.google.com/googlepla...l=en#contact=1
Apaco said:
UPDATE
OK - I gave up 6.0 required setup a WiFi connection before fully booting. 5.1 wouldn't let me load ES File Explorer from the terminal (failure uri something or other).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For 6.0, I rebooted after first boot, then the "Skip >" option showed up during the wifi connection setup screen.
Google Maps not working
---------- Post added at 09:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:47 PM ----------
Everybody please post here, maybe Google will read:
https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!topic/play/qBah52BAQxY;context-place=forum/play
Alvera said:
Everybody please post here, maybe Google will read:
https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!topic/play/qBah52BAQxY;context-place=forum/play
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Things may escalate faster if you try their one-on-one support via https://support.google.com/googlepla...l=en#contact=1
This worked! Thanks OP. As a bonus tip you can also do this from TWRP: Use the TWRP terminal emulator, switch to /data/app/ and mkdir the aformentioned gms-1 and gms-2 apk dummies.