Database Users

Go launcher working!!

New method.
I have figured out a safer way to install a custom launcher. Your device still needs to be rooted.
1- Download the launcher of your choice from the Play Store.
2- With a file manager of your choice navigate to data/app folder, this will have all the apk's you've downloaded from the Play Store. (the name of the apk will look different ie: nova launcher is named "com.teslacoilsw.launcher.apk" )
3- Move launcher apk to system/app folder install or reboot(the permissions should already be set to rw-r--r-- so no need to change them)
Personally I like using Rom Toolbox Pro/Lite(can be found in play store, i bought the pro version for more options), I have no affiliation but this app is great and you should check it out. It has every different tool for root users you can think of. In the App Manager section if you long press on any app there is an option to "convert to system app", no moving, cut/paste, or installing.
This should help avoid getting some screwed up apk file from an alternate source and messing up your device.
As always try at your own RISK.
I would recommend checking out this thread before messing around with your device:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1930656

Can you specify which version of Go Launcher you used and where you obtained the apk from?
After having a near-brick experience attempting to install Go Launcher on my original Kindle Fire last year, I'd like to try it with something known to work.
Thanks in advance.

WillysJeepMan said:
Can you specify which version of Go Launcher you used and where you obtained the apk from?
After having a near-brick experience attempting to install Go Launcher on my original Kindle Fire last year, I'd like to try it with something known to work.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just googled go launcher ex apk. Dont think its ok to specify exactly which site i used(3rd maybe..) but I downloaded v3.13.
I completely feel ya, try at your own risk but definitely worked with mine.

I didn't need to restart but I can confirm go launcher and Nova are working. I'm sure any launcher will

Well maybe some of these other launchers are better but all I want is the android look to tell the truth with icons so ADW Launcher EX without rooting is fine by me to get away from the carousel.

Works great. Thank you.

robertc88 said:
Well maybe some of these other launchers are better but all I want is the android look to tell the truth with icons so ADW Launcher EX without rooting is fine by me to get away from the carousel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me its not even about which launcher is better they all have pros and cons, but i personally like to use my home button. With this process you can set the launcher as default. Not be bounced back to the stock launcher every time you use the home button and have to reload a custom launcher. Too much of a hassle for me and takes away from the experience.

This method also worked with Go Launcher HD, it looks better then then regular Go Launcher imho.

migjr415 said:
This method also worked with Go Launcher HD, it looks better then then regular Go Launcher imho.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does i agree, but is there a way to hide the notification bar and action bar on hd version?

I didn't find the way to hide NAV bar. All works perfect with Go launcher HD. I am sure that nobody want to try removing NAV bar, cause it is a high risk of breaking your KFHD. Auto-hide in this case would be great, but i can't understand when NAV bar hides. I suppose it hides when there is in exit button, or return button in running apk. IMHO.

How do you change permission on a non rooted device. I downloaded the go launcher hd all v1.17. I tried rebooting and nothing. Can I do this on a stock fire. If so can you provide a step by step. I tried moving the apk to system/apps but says the apk cannot be moved. Thanks
Sent from my Kindle Fire HD using Tapatalk.

Melodycd said:
I didn't find the way to hide NAV bar. All works perfect with Go launcher HD. I am sure that nobody want to try removing NAV bar, cause it is a high risk of breaking your KFHD. Auto-hide in this case would be great, but i can't understand when NAV bar hides. I suppose it hides when there is in exit button, or return button in running apk. IMHO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a setting in go launcher ex that allows you to hide nav and notification bars, the little tab is still visible at the bottom or side of screen so you can open them with ease. Gives the tablet a full screen. I love the look of the hd version but would rather have the full screen, wish the would put this option on the hd version

petes67bird said:
How do you change permission on a non rooted device. I downloaded the go launcher hd all v1.17. I tried rebooting and nothing. Can I do this on a stock fire. If so can you provide a step by step. I tried moving the apk to system/apps but says the apk cannot be moved. Thanks
Sent from my Kindle Fire HD using Tapatalk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you cannot change permissions of system files or anything about them unless the device is rooted. This keeps the average person from screwing up there device.

Lockscreen?
Guys, have any of you had luck with the lockscreen for GoLauncher? I tried GoLocker and i had to go through the original Amazon Kindle Fire HD lockscreen and then to the GoLauncher Lockscreen. SO, basically, i had two lockscreens going on at once. Is there a fix for this?

klass

caponea6 said:
Guys, have any of you had luck with the lockscreen for GoLauncher? I tried GoLocker and i had to go through the original Amazon Kindle Fire HD lockscreen and then to the GoLauncher Lockscreen. SO, basically, i had two lockscreens going on at once. Is there a fix for this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Happens with the KF 1st gen also but I never bothered with it. Might want to look into the KF 1st gen and see if anyone found a way around it.

onemeila said:
To get go launcher ex working on the KFHD I took these steps.(On rooted device)
1- download the Go launcher ex.apk from a third party (from play store will not work)
3- change permissions to rw-r--r--
2- using a file manager find the apk and move to system/app folder.
4- reboot the device.
When it reboots there should be a message saying "kindle is upgrading".
Then it should prompt you to pick which launcher you want to use.
If you did not get the latest version you can now go to play store and update.
I assume this will work for other launchers though i have not tried it.
Finally I feel like im using more of an android interface(at least until someone figures out this bootloader problem and i can flash cm10)
I just downloaded go launcher hd and did not change permissions, still worked. Could someone tell me if this is necessary. I just copied the permissions of the stock launcher when i loaded the ex version so i assumed it was necessary they were the same
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did step by step like you, but after restarted my KFHD freezing at KF logo, please help me to fix it.

First question, did you install this app in the /system/app folder, AFTER you placed it in there? You must install the launcher after it is placed and permissions are changed. It appears you may have a soft brick if that KFHD isnt booting at all.

caponea6 said:
First question, did you install this app in the /system/app folder, AFTER you placed it in there? You must install the launcher after it is placed and permissions are changed. It appears you may have a soft brick if that KFHD isnt booting at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yup, i copied it to /system/app folder,changed permission then installed from there,but when i restarted my KF, it just stop at logo kindle fire.so have any way to fix it?

probb said:
yup, i copied it to /system/app folder,changed permission then installed from there,but when i restarted my KF, it just stop at logo kindle fire.so have any way to fix it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WELP! That doesn't seem like a great scenario to be in. If this was me, I would connect it to my PC and pray that while you're stuck in that logo limbo it would still give you connectivity. I would then go into the /system/app through your PC (on your KFHD directory) and physically remove the launcher files. Then try a restart.

[How to] Install Go Launcher EX and HD Noob (Simple) Version

This is part of our new NOOB Series. This one is How to: Install Go Launcher EX and HD Noob (Simple) Version
In this series we will install both Go Launcher EX and Go Launcher HD - I have selected these launchers since they are heavily supported and offer a great deal of options and Themes. Go Launcher EX has the largest number of options but it was designed around a Phone form factor not a Tablet form factor while Go Launcher HD was designed around a Tablet form factor. We personally use Go Launcher EX on the Kindle 7" HD due to the vast available Themes, plus it gets updated about every week, so if you find a Go Launcher EX bug, it will be aggressively resolved. We attempt to keep this tutorial updated regularly - adding information from the end users experience. We have recently upgraded the storage servers to increase uptime, you now have two options for the downloads both are ad free. Option one is a Dropbox Storage Server and Option two is a Ubuntu One Storage Server, if one is under maintenance you may use the other download link. When you are done with the tutorial, please take the time to post feedback, this is very important to us - without your feedback, we have no way of knowing if we are doing our job. Finally, if you feel we did a decent job, please think about donating to us using the "Donate to Me" button - this is how we make a living, without your kind donations we would no longer be able to do this for a living.
Prerequisites:
1. Competed How To: 7" Kindle Fire HD Root - Noob (Simple) Version http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2069117
2. Completed How to: Install Google Play Noob (Simple) Version http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2069329
3. Download and install either ES File Explorer(Dropbox) or ES File Explorer(Ubuntu One) Root Explorer
Go Launcher Step 1: Download Go Launcher EX(Dropbox) or Go Launcher EX(Ubuntu One) save GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk to your desktop
Go Launcher Step 2: Download Go Launcher HD(Dropbox) or Go Launcher HD(Ubuntu One) save GO_Launcher_HD.apk to your desktop
Go Launcher Step 3: Download Live Wallpaper Picker(Dropbox) or Live Wallpaper Picker(Ubuntu One) save LiveWallpapersPicker.apk to your desktop
Go Launcher Step 3.1: Download AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3(Dropbox) or AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3(Ubuntu One) save AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk to your desktop
Go Launcher Step 4: Using Windows Explorer, move GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk, GO_Launcher_HD.apk, AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk and LiveWallpapersPicker.apk from your desktop to Kindle/Internal Storage/Download
Go Launcher Step 5: Using ES File Explorer, launch ES File Explorer. Open the ES File Explorer Settings, Choose Root Settings. Make sure you check all the options in Root Settings. Be sure to Allow the Superuser request to ES File Explorer.
Go Launcher Step 6: Using ES File Explorer with Superuser permissions. Move GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk, GO_Launcher_HD.apk, AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk and LiveWallpapersPicker.apk from /sdcard/Download to /system/app
Go Launcher Step 7: Next long press on /system/app/GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk select Permissions. Change the permissions to User: Read Write Group: Read Others: Read
Go Launcher Step 8: Next long press on /system/app/GO_Launcher_HD.apk select Permissions. Change the permissions to User: Read Write Group: Read Others: Read
Go Launcher Step 9: Next long press on /system/app/LiveWallpapersPicker.apk select Permissions. Change the permissions to User: Read Write Group: Read Others: Read
Go Launcher Step 9.1: Next long press on /system/app/AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk select Permissions. Change the permissions to User: Read Write Group: Read Others: Read
Go Launcher Step 10: Using ES File Explorer, install /system/app/GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk by clicking on the GO_Launcher_EX_3_19_1.apk file. Complete the install.
Go Launcher Step 11: Using ES File Explorer, install /system/app/GO_Launcher_HD.apk by clicking on the GO_Launcher_HD.apk file. Complete the install.
Go Launcher Step 12: Reboot the Kindle. When the Kindle Reboots, it will display "Kindle is upgrading Please Wait". Wait for the services to start, about 10-20 seconds.
Go Launcher Step 13: Next you will be displayed with an option to set your default Launcher: Home (Kindle Launcher), Go Launcher EX, or Go Launcher HD. Choose one. At this point do not check the "default" box until you have figured out what is your favorite Launcher. Test all 3, then when you make a final decision, click on the picture of a House, here you will be presented with the same dialog box - choose you "default" Launcher.
Go Launcher Step 14: Finally let's install a utility that will allow you to swap the Wallpaper with a single click. Open Google Play Store the search for Kindle Fire - Wallpaper Change - choose Install and Accept & download
Note: You can always change Launchers by going into Apps and selecting Home (Kindle Launcher), Go Launcher EX, or Go Launcher HD.
Known Issues: None
We all love options!
Next we will offer a How to: Install Flash Player and Opera Browser Noob (Easy) Version http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=35972409
If you would like to support our work, please send us a donation using this link:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/dona....php?u=4435645

To be honest, I think nova launcher is quite a bit better than go launcher, but to each their own. Your guide series is great and I wish it had been out while I had been figuring out how to doing this Thanks for your hard work!
Sent from my KFTT using xda premium

Supertrent1 said:
To be honest, I think nova launcher is quite a bit better than go launcher, but to each their own. Your guide series is great and I wish it had been out while I had been figuring out how to doing this Thanks for your hard work!
Sent from my KFTT using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the feedback.
Nova and Apex Launchers will come soon in our NOOB series. We first like to test the software for 60 days, then we create a "How to" after we verified the problems and potential solutions.

prokennexusa said:
This is part of our new NOOB Series. This one is How to: Install Go Launcher EX and HD Noob (Easy) Version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are awesome thank you again I feel I should wait for my cord, but I want to say F it and go for it with you guide I feel I will be able to achieve my goals with positive results.

Root and Google Play for Amazon 7" Kindle Fire HD Software Version 7.2.3
Jayj0ka said:
You are awesome thank you again I feel I should wait for my cord, but I want to say F it and go for it with you guide I feel I will be able to achieve my goals with positive results.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you again.
So far everyone that has followed the steps CLOSELY has achieved success. If you get stuck, we are here from 10am to 10pm PST GMT -8

eedowcre the
After the first reboot my kindle update and I lost root, although I did delete otacerts.zip

prokennexusa said:
Thank you for the feedback.
Nova and Apex Launchers will come soon in our NOOB series. We first like to test the software for 60 days, then we create a "How to" after we verified the problems and potential solutions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You guys are great and your series are awesome! Keep up your great work :victory:

Disable Amazon OTA Updates
los911 said:
After the first reboot my kindle update and I lost root, although I did delete otacerts.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the feedback. I wonder if the update had already downloaded before you deleted the otacerts.zip file?
I am still on 7.2.2
Let's look into this deeper. If the updates are still downloading we need to develop a mod ASAP. Once I receive your response we will
look into this issue with more detail.

If the Play Store is installed, can't the launchers be installed directly from there?

Thank you so much for posting this! I actually registered just to say thank you. I was so afraid of bricking my Kindle because it was a gift but after following this Go Launcher Ex works perfectly!

Follow Up
merlise said:
Thank you so much for posting this! I actually registered just to say thank you. I was so afraid of bricking my Kindle because it was a gift but after following this Go Launcher Ex works perfectly!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much for the feedback, we are honored to offer these instructions on the XDA Developer Site.
Positive feedback means a lot to us, it motivate us to continue growing our Noob Series.

Future Launcher Options
Our development team is working hard, testing all available launchers. We will soon begin to post other launcher options.
If you have a favorite, please post your comments, then we will know what to work on next.
Thanks!

Many thanks again!

Follow Up
Macalester said:
Many thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem, we are working with Go Launch trying to solve the Next Launcher bug since this is a
beautiful launcher.
More to come..........

I followed this guide to the T, but for some reason when I install Go Launcher EX it tells me it installed correctly but never shows up and never does the updating when rebooting. I have Go Launcher installed and that works fine, and when selecting the home button I never see Go Launcher EX. My kindle is displaying Go Launcher HD, Go Launcher Security, Go Locker and Home. Is there something I'm doing wrong?

Upgrade from Go Launcher to Go Launcher EX
DirtyDobbs said:
I followed this guide to the T, but for some reason when I install Go Launcher EX it tells me it installed correctly but never shows up and never does the updating when rebooting. I have Go Launcher installed and that works fine, and when selecting the home button I never see Go Launcher EX. My kindle is displaying Go Launcher HD, Go Launcher Security, Go Locker and Home. Is there something I'm doing wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm, so if I understand you correctly, you are performing a Upgrade from Go Launcher to Go Launcher EX Correct?
You need to first remove Go Launcher, then reboot and perform the Go Launcher EX install as outlined. It is worth it
Go Launcher EX has a lot of power and features over the older Go Launcher..

prokennexusa said:
Hmmm, so if I understand you correctly, you are performing a Upgrade from Go Launcher to Go Launcher EX Correct?
You need to first remove Go Launcher, then reboot and perform the Go Launcher EX install as outlined. It is worth it
Go Launcher EX has a lot of power and features over the older Go Launcher..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to sure what you mean but the upgrade, but I'm going to go ahead and get rid or HD and install the EX 1st and see what that does for me. Plus I found a version of GO_Launcher_EX_3_23_1 that is newer then the one that you have posted. Is there a reason were using the older one or is the one that I have bogus?
Update: Just did all the steps again and I'm still not getting the EX only the HD and Security come up...not to sure why it's not installing. If I do a restore of the system will I loose my root access? I might just do that to clean up everything.
Update 2: I think for some reason the Go Launcher EX is called Go Launcher Security...don't know why but I just deleted it out of system\apps and now the Go Launcher security disappeared. SO why is it not called EX and instead called Security? Anyway I'll just install it again to see what happens.

Should I update?
I am being told by the market that there is a newer version of Go launcher EX. Should I update or is this particular version being specified because its designed for the Kindle?
Love your work by the way guys!!
:laugh:

Go Launcher EX and HD
Moadeeb77 said:
I am being told by the market that there is a newer version of Go launcher EX. Should I update or is this particular version being specified because its designed for the Kindle?
Love your work by the way guys!!
:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good question.
Yes, please perform the Update. Always perform the Market
Updates since it usually get's rid of known Bugs.

Go Launcher EX and HD
DirtyDobbs said:
Not to sure what you mean but the upgrade, but I'm going to go ahead and get rid or HD and install the EX 1st and see what that does for me. Plus I found a version of GO_Launcher_EX_3_23_1 that is newer then the one that you have posted. Is there a reason were using the older one or is the one that I have bogus?
Update: Just did all the steps again and I'm still not getting the EX only the HD and Security come up...not to sure why it's not installing. If I do a restore of the system will I loose my root access? I might just do that to clean up everything.
Update 2: I think for some reason the Go Launcher EX is called Go Launcher Security...don't know why but I just deleted it out of system\apps and now the Go Launcher security disappeared. SO why is it not called EX and instead called Security? Anyway I'll just install it again to see what happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, this is a bit odd. Sorry for the delayed response we have been responding
to lot's of great questions. Yes, if you perform a factory reset you will loose Root
and have to Re-Root the Kindle. Go Launcher can be found in /data/app/
the service name is com.gau.go.launcherex-1.apk although performing a
Uninstall should have removed this service. Remove all instances of Go
Launcher, reboot and try the install again. Do you have Google Play? You
Can perform an install using Google Play too. Just FYI.

Changing Launcher?

I bought one of these for my mom hoping it wouldn't be so well locked down. Has anyone managed to change their launcher from the default Amazon(Ad-laden) launcher? Sideloaded Nova but no dice there.

While Nova runs fine you can't replace the amazon launcher. I believe it was possible on pre 5.1.1 fire OS. Until we get root we'll just have make do.

If you're interested in changing the default firelauncher without rooting your device, please take a quick peak at my thread discussing the possibilties.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8...zon-fire-hd-8-10-remove-firelauncher-t3286646
If you are currently rooted, which as of today is not possible on HD 8 & HD 10, you simply delete the com.amazon.firelauncher.apk in /system/priv-apps/com.amazon.firelauncher/, you will need to boot into fastboot and remount the system as rw if I am correct.
I hope this helps . Again, please check my thread for non-root information, it is currently unfinished.

Here is an updated tutorial on how to change the default launcher without rooting!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/tut-remove-default-launcher-amazon-fire-t3288192
Edit: Found a second method that is even better!

nyln said:
Here is an updated tutorial on how to change the default launcher without rooting!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/hd8-hd10/general/tut-remove-default-launcher-amazon-fire-t3288192
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
while you're method may work, it's far from optimal.
it's not possible to just rename another launcher and replace the FireOs launcher? i suppose that would be too easy.
if it were my tablet, i'd be more inclined to play around with it. unfortunately, my mom is content enough with it how it is, though i can see it being a beast and would **** around more if it were mine.
hopefully root comes soon. unfortunately, i can't help work towards it.
when all of that is said and done, i'll build a rom and kernel for it, np.

technope said:
while you're method may work, it's far from optimal.
it's not possible to just rename another launcher and replace the FireOs launcher? i suppose that would be too easy.
if it were my tablet, i'd be more inclined to play around with it. unfortunately, my mom is content enough with it how it is, though i can see it being a beast and would **** around more if it were mine.
hopefully root comes soon. unfortunately, i can't help work towards it.
when all of that is said and done, i'll build a rom and kernel for it, np.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found a new method that actually works very very well, just run this in adb shell:
Code:
#!/bin/bash
am monitor | while read -r line; do
if [[ $line == *"firelauncher"* ]]
then
[B]am start com.newlauncher.launcher[/B]
fi
done

nyln said:
I found a new method that actually works very very well, just run this in adb shell:
Code:
#!/bin/bash
am monitor | while read -r line; do
if [[ $line == *"firelauncher"* ]]
then
[B]am start com.newlauncher.launcher[/B]
fi
done
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Little bash script like that. I'll give it a try when I have time. Sleek enough, and if effective it's great.

technope said:
Little bash script like that. I'll give it a try when I have time. Sleek enough, and if effective it's great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only downside to the script is when you press the home button, there is a delay of 500ms or so, you see the firelauncher for that time.
It is not nohup or anything so it will stop working when you close adb shell (easy to do yourself, but I am preoccupied at the moment).

Why not root?
So I was actually able to ROOT my kindle fire hd 8 with the kingroot method.
After installing the apk.
Loaded it up let it try to find a root solution and it will not but you can try rooting with the other method and it WORKED for me. Never been so happy!
So after that I loaded adb shell in command prompt and typed "su" to see if I had root and it WORKED again, so I am even more happier!
Now after typing in "su" into command prompt I then typed in,
Code:
pm disable com.amazon.firelauncher
and it was successful..
NOTE: you must have another launcher installed before you do this! I had GOLauncher.
The End <3
P.S. I had installed the necessary files from rootjunky's "Amazon Fire Tablet Tool" or also known as installing google play store method..
Any questions hit me up, I have rebooted and still have root and things intact. Haven't had any problems as of yet. WOOT for ROOT

kanderson88 said:
So I was actually able to ROOT my kindle fire hd 8 with the kingroot method.
After installing the apk.
Loaded it up let it try to find a root solution and it will not but you can try rooting with the other method and it WORKED for me. Never been so happy!
So after that I loaded adb shell in command prompt and typed "su" to see if I had root and it WORKED again, so I am even more happier!
Now after typing in "su" into command prompt I then typed in,
Code:
pm disable com.amazon.firelauncher
and it was successful..
NOTE: you must have another launcher installed before you do this! I had GOLauncher.
The End <3
P.S. I had installed the necessary files from rootjunky's "Amazon Fire Tablet Tool" or also known as installing google play store method..
Any questions hit me up, I have rebooted and still have root and things intact. Haven't had any problems as of yet. WOOT for ROOT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets

So after doing some research I believe it won't be possible on the fire cause the system files are missing. From what I've seen I feel like the new 5 the gen tablets are all the same, can't confirm it yet but if so you should be able to follow the instruction given on the kindle 7 5th gen able about booting up into twrp or cm and installing a new Rom. I'm not sure if I want to do this though. Adw launcher feels empty without widgets though
---------- Post added at 10:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:37 AM ----------
kanderson88 said:
So after doing some research I believe it won't be possible on the fire cause the system files are missing. From what I've seen I feel like the new 5 the gen tablets are all the same, can't confirm it yet but if so you should be able to follow the instruction given on the kindle 7 5th gen able about booting up into twrp or cm and installing a new Rom. I'm not sure if I want to do this though. Adw launcher feels empty without widgets though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But do not follow my advice unless you know what your doing. Always back up everything.

kanderson88 said:
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm that with the latest KingRoot apk on my HD8 (5th Generation) the rooting worked. As a launcher I had before Nova and Google Now via Play Store installed. I prefer the Google Now Launcher. The Home button, the Wallpaper and the Widgets are working. Thanks for the hot rooting tip.

schr01 said:
I can confirm that with the latest KingRoot apk on my HD8 (5th Generation) the rooting worked. As a launcher I had before Nova and Google Now via Play Store installed. I prefer the Google Now Launcher. The Home button, the Wallpaper and the Widgets are working. Thanks for the hot rooting tip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your google play store actually work? I can get it to load but once the front page is loaded, I can't search or get anything else to load on google play. It's just a continuous load. Could you let me know what framework you have. Also I cant get widgets to work on mine. Have Adw and cant get google now to work. If you can I think you should make a posts on the HD 8 and 10 thread letting us know what you did to get where you are now. Anyways I'm going to message you in a lil bit.

So I got google launcher installed and moved it to system app and now widgets work. Only problem I'm facing now is getting google play to stay working. Sometimes log me out or just stops loading traffic to the app. Any ideas? I've uninstalled it and reinstalled it but still no.

kanderson88 said:
So I got google launcher installed and moved it to system app and now widgets work. Only problem I'm facing now is getting google play to stay working. Sometimes log me out or just stops loading traffic to the app. Any ideas? I've uninstalled it and reinstalled it but still no.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1

schr01 said:
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'm gonna have to try this once I get off work. Thank you again

kanderson88 said:
After messing around the go launcher ex is a little buggy. I might try another, currently trying to figure out how to get widgets to work and once I do ill let you know the system file.
Any ideas what I should add to the fire os? Current goal is widgets
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please try nova.

schr01 said:
I had in the past the same problems. After I had uninstalled the complet apk's and reinstalled the following apk's:
Google Account Manager_4.0.3-239410.apk,
Google Play services_4.0.34 (924341-38).apk,
Google Services Framework 4.0.4-338691.apk ,
and
Google Play Store 4.4.21.apk,
I had no trouble. The Google Play Store worked now fine on my HD8 with firmware 5.1.1.
Remark: You can download the apk' from this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B3yLoupCwoyrSzJEMHc3UTkzam8/edit?pref=2&pli=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for supplying the APKs. This should help me as right now infos are jumbled all across this forum and need to be cleaned up a bit.
I'd love to do a nice/clean .bin people can flash after the dust has settled. Hopefully without kingroot. Wish I knew the kingroot devs.

Also, everyone needs to slow down. We have root in a way, but we need to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don't let this forum become a mess.
Right now, it is a huge mess.. The original root thread is smart to post on and maybe the tips and tricks thread. Stop spreading things out too much. We need it all in one place, really

technope said:
Also, everyone needs to slow down. We have root in a way, but we need to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don't let this forum become a mess.
Right now, it is a huge mess.. The original root thread is smart to post on and maybe the tips and tricks thread. Stop spreading things out too much. We need it all in one place, really
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah sorry I'm trying my best to clean up my thread a little and easy to read as much as possible. Also I figured out how to fix google play if it isn't working. Look at tips,Tricks, and the Root thread if anyone is wondering.

[TOOLS Fire HD 6&7 ] Rooting, Gapps, Launchers, Block OTA & Ads + More

Download the latest tools from the AFH link near end of post. It includes the changes in the attached "jobs" zip. You only need "jobs" if you downloaded the tools before May 11
EDIT May 29: Playstore is currently unreliable. Until updated, use the workaround here.
UPDATE May 17: Install Other Launcher and Install Kingroot tools may not complete if Windows username has spaces. I'll fix in next update. Until then, if your username has spaces, use this fix.
Here are tools for the 2014 Fire HD 6 and 7. A little late, I know, but some of you who still troll the forums may find them handy. Download the tools from AFH link, extract and run RUNME.bat.
IF YOU PLAN TO ROOT, TURN OFF WIFI NOW!
Tested working on OS 5.1.2.1 and below, except:
- Current Kingroot can't root 5.1.2.1. You need to downgrade. See "ROOT OS 5.1.2", below.
- OS 4: Only OTA blocking is implemented in the Block/Unblock jobs. [5/13/16 UPDATE: Also, Play Store isn't working on OS 4.
.. I probably won't fix it unless there's some demand. Try the video guide here. OS 4 users, also see post #11 for useful info about custom launchers.]
THE TOOLS
Install Play Store
Install Nova Launcher to /priv-app [root]
Install Other Launcher to /priv-app [root]
Uninstall priv-app Launchers [root]
Install Apps
Block/Unblock: OTA, ADS, AMAZON LAUNCHER, APPSTORE, AMAZON SEARCH [root]
Root Checker
Device Info
Root Tools
Install Kingroot ~ Root ~ Block OTA
Replace Kingroot with SuperSU [root]
DESCRIPTIONS
Before running a job, look here for any tips and instructions. This info is also in the readme.txt in the zip​
INSTALL PLAY STORE - Like it says. Works on both rooted and unrooted OS 5. Not for OS 4. EDIT May 29: Playstore is currently unreliable. Until updated, use the workaround here.
INSTALL NOVA LAUNCHER - Installs Nova to /system/priv-app so widgets work. If you just rooted, make this your first custom launcher. You can replace it or add a different one later.
INSTALL OTHER LAUNCHER Installs the launcher app in user_launcher folder to priv-app. Get the apk for the launcher you want (from apkmirror.com for example) and put it into the folder and run the job. EDIT 5/16/2016: Filenames must end with ".apk" No spaces allowed; replace with "_". (The tool will find spaces and pause while while you fix.)
HOW TO INSTALL GOOGLE NOW (also in Readme.txt):
It's much easier to install Google Now if Amazon is blocked, and you need a custom launcher to do that.
1. If you don't have a custom launcher installed, use Install Nova tool (installs Nova and blocks Amazon)
If you have a custom launcher, block Amazon so your custom launcher is running.
2. Get Google Now (small) from apkmirror.com, e.g., put into user_launcher folder and run Install Other Launcher job.
You'll boot to your "other" launcher
3. Run Google Now in app drawer and:
If prompted to Update Google App (Get it from Google Play), do it.
If prompted that other launcher is default, tap link to go to Amazon Settings. In Apps & Games>Manage all Applications: Swipe to All, scroll to your other launcher, tap it and see if "Launch by Default" is on. If yes, Clear Defaults. If no, go to your launcher settings and see if you can turn off default there.
Some launchers don't give up their default easily. If pressing home key doesn't show "Select Home App" after doing the above, run Block/Unblock tool and switch to Amazon. Then block Amazon again. After restart, press home key and you'll get "Select Home App" and be able to choose Google Now.
UNINSTALL LAUNCHERS - Uninstalls and deletes everything associated with a launcher installed to /priv-app. If multiple, prompts you to choose the one to uninstall.
INSTALL APPS - Installs all the apps in the user_apps folder. Put the apks into the folder and run the job. Filenames must end with ".apk" No spaces allowed; replace with "_". (The tool will find spaces and pause while while you fix.) Don't install a launcher with this; use one of the launcher tools.
BLOCK/UNBLOCK - OTA, ADS, AMAZON LAUNCHER, APPSTORE, AMAZON SEARCH
Except for OTA, these work only on rooted OS 5. OTA does a soft block on unrooted OS 4, hard block on rooted.
OTA: Disables update packages and renames DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk for a "hard" block. Unblock reverses it.
ADS: Blocks/unblocks the lockscreen ads.
AMAZON LAUNCHER: Block disables the stock launcher (Amazon UI) and the Appstore, which forces the home key to use your custom launcher. Unblock switches you to Amazon. Checks for custom launcher before disabling Amazon. Black screen with multiple custom launchers: If you haven't set a default launcher, disabling Amazon will boot to black screen. (System doesn't know which launcher to use.) Press home key (circle at bottom) for launcher choices. TIP: To easily switch between your launcher and Amazon, use @bibikalka's guide here to set up "one-tap switching" from launcher home screen.
APPSTORE: Blocks the appstore so in-app links take you to the Play Store (instead of throwing that stupid Appstore prompt). Amazon complains bitterly if you run this from Amazon UI, so use it at your custom launcher or just use the Amazon launcher block.
AMAZON SEARCH: If you have Google Search installed, blocking Amazon Search makes your launcher search bar use Google instead of Amazon shopping.
DEVICE INFO - Just some specs that I find interesting. Lazy man's way to find out which tablet is plugged in, OS it's running, whether rooted . . .
INSTALL KINGROOT, ROOT, BLOCK OTA - Installs Kingroot, prompts you through rooting and blocks OTA updates.
- Installs kingroot v.4.8.5 by default.
- You can skip installation if Kingroot already installed
- You can install a later version if available: Check for new versions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/one-click-root-tool-android-2-x-5-0-t3107461
ROOTING AND UPDATES: An update file can download while you're rooting. The Kingroot tool prevents it from installing as soon as you press Enter to tell the tool you're rooted. Then it looks for any downloaded file and if it finds one it tells you where it is and prompts you to delete.
Amazon says that updates install when the the device is not being used, but be aware that on OS 5 there's some risk. To minimize the risk, never leave the tablet idle while rooting. Just keep running Kingroot until root is successful and then press Enter to block installation of any download. (These instructions are in the tool.) To eliminate all risk, you can downgrade and root OS 4.5.3. On OS 4 the tool blocks update installation before rooting. (There's no way to do this on OS 5.) From OS 4.5.3, you upgrade with root in TWRP per bibikalka's root Tut.
True story: Kingroot once rebooted 5 times and told me "Root Failed" 3 times before finally succeeding. An update had downloaded to /cache, but the kingroot tool successfully blocked installation and found the file, which I deleted. So, although it's possible you could get upgraded, as long as you keep the tablet busy trying to root and then press Enter as soon as you're rooted, it's very unlikely.
REPLACE KINGROOT WITH SUPERSU - Installs W0lfDroid's sh script and prompts you through using it to replace Kingroot.
I reviewed and tested the script and it does (only) what it says: Removes all Kingroot (except Purify app, which tool uninstalls) and installs SuperSU. The tool uses SuperSU v. 2.4.6 for OS 5 (known working on OS 5.1.2) and SuperSU v. 2.4.9 for OS 4 (because 2.4.6 didn't seem to work).
FULL DISCLOSURE: I lost root one time after running this on OS 4. I think the problem was SuperSU 2.4.6 and that's why I changed it. I've tested many times and this only happened once, but you should know it happened. AFAIK W0lfDroid script is still the best free tool for the job.
ERRORS: Script was written to remove Kingroot from multiple android versions, so it tries to remove Kingroot files that don't exist on Lollipop. THIS PRODUCES LOTS OF ERRORS. THAT'S OK. I left in all commands so it will work on OS 4, too.
USE THIS SOON AFTER ROOTING. W0lfDroid's script should work fine even with root apps installed, but all I know for sure is it runs quick and easy on a "fresh" system.
ADB Sideload
There's an adb-sideload job in the jobs folder. I didn't put it on the menu because it uses commands that may not run on some systems. Also, if you know what you're doing, it's probably faster to manually sideload an update. If someone wants to try it, put the update bin file into adb_sideload folder and run sideload.bat.​WINDOWS TESTING: Script was tested on English-language versions of Win 7 Pro and Home. Some testing on Win 10. (Thanks @SpaceBananas!) There's nothing that can hurt your tablet, but there may be kinks to work out based on Windows version. Hope a tester will work with me to help make the tools accessible to everyone. Thanks!
ADB DRIVERS REQUIRED: Try the guide in first link below. If problems, try the second.
Guide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fir...ivers-fire-t3189000/post62561840#post62561840
Other options: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=63072252&postcount=2
ROOT OS 5.1.2
IF YOU PLAN TO ROOT, TURN OFF WIFI NOW!
ROOT GUIDE: Follow this guide to use Kingroot and the root tools to set up your tablet.
At this time, Kingroot can only root OS 5.1.2 (February 2016) and below.
You can downgrade OS 5.1.2.1 (March 2016) to 5.1.2 and root, as explained in Root Guide, but this is an exception!
In general, never downgrade in order to use Kingroot. It's the fastest way to a brick!
You may be able to safely downgrade a higher OS to OS 4.5.3, root, and then upgrade in TWRP per @bibikalka's root Tut. Before trying this on an OS later than 5.1.2.1, make sure the tutorial says it's safe.
DOWNLOAD THE TOOLS FROM AFH ➔ . FireHD_TOOLS v 1.2
Update as of 5/11/16
➔ If you got the tools before the update, just replace the jobs folder in FIREHD_TOOLS with the one in attached "jobs_v1.x.zip"
Change Log
5/11/2016 - v1.2: Updated sideload.bat. (Missed the Find/Findstr fixes.)
5/10/2016 - v1.1: Fixed "No such file or directory" and "Permission denied" errors for users with *nix Find command installed
.

Nice Work!

@DoLooper - Magnum Opus, no less !
Why version 0.1 ??? The first release - solid 1.0 !!!

Updated. See OP.
Guys, I could use some feedback. Tools are getting downloaded a lot. Anybody using them? Are they helpful? Problems? Wishes? Anything? Thanks!
.

Updated again <sigh>. Sideload tool didn't get updated in v1.1. Apologies to those who downloaded the jobs zip.

DoLooper said:
Updated. See OP.
Guys, I could use some feedback. Tools are getting downloaded a lot. Anybody using them? Are they helpful? Problems? Wishes? Anything? Thanks!
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks DoLooper.
I tried these tools on my Fire HD 7 running 4.5.5.1 rooted with KingRoot.
I was able to use the script to successfully switch from KingRoot to SuperSU as well as to install Nova Launcher.
However, I had issues with the script elsewhere.
The play store seemed to install okay and it let me put in my google account info. After that, things went down hill. I was able to open the Play Store app without it crashing, but I just kept getting the "Error retrieving information from server. [RH-01]" message . I tried numerous things to correct this, but nothing seemed to work. In the end, I downgraded to 4.5.5, wiped data, cache and dalvik, and then flashed gapps via TWRP. This worked out, so all is good now.
I also had trouble with blocking the default launcher. Nova seemed to install okay, but the default launcher still worked and was a constant nag with each press of the home button. I fixed this by freezing the default launcher via Titanium Backup.
I don't know if these issues are particular to 4.5.5.1, or if I'm just unlucky. Regardless, I still appreciate your effort for putting this together. :good:
I'm currently trying to get wallpapers and widgets to work on the Nova launcher with no success. I tried the fixes intended for earlier Kindle models and (not surprisingly), they didn't work. Specifically, I tried Stunt's Wallpaper Fix and Kindlefree from the app store.
Any ideas where I should look for guidance on making Wallpapers and Widgets work?
Thanks again!

notorious.dds said:
Thanks DoLooper.
I tried these tools on my Fire HD 7 running 4.5.5.1 rooted with KingRoot.
I was able to use the script to successfully switch from KingRoot to SuperSU as well as to install Nova Launcher.
However, I had issues with the script elsewhere.
The play store seemed to install okay and it let me put in my google account info. After that, things went down hill. I was able to open the Play Store app without it crashing, but I just kept getting the "Error retrieving information from server. [RH-01]" message . I tried numerous things to correct this, but nothing seemed to work. In the end, I downgraded to 4.5.5, wiped data, cache and dalvik, and then flashed gapps via TWRP. This worked out, so all is good now.
I also had trouble with blocking the default launcher. Nova seemed to install okay, but the default launcher still worked and was a constant nag with each press of the home button. I fixed this by freezing the default launcher via Titanium Backup.
I don't know if these issues are particular to 4.5.5.1, or if I'm just unlucky. Regardless, I still appreciate your effort for putting this together. :good:
I'm currently trying to get wallpapers and widgets to work on the Nova launcher with no success. I tried the fixes intended for earlier Kindle models and (not surprisingly), they didn't work. Specifically, I tried Stunt's Wallpaper Fix and Kindlefree from the app store.
Any ideas where I should look for guidance on making Wallpapers and Widgets work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for feedback. Tools apparently need work for OS 4.5.5.1. I tested pretty well on 4.5.3 and 4.5.5, but not 4.5.5.1. There may be some peculiarity there.
- The play store error has been reported on some 2015 Fires (using a different tool, but same method to install). It's unclear why it happens on some devices and not others, and they haven't found a fix, but it may be an OS 4 issue on the Fire HDs. I'll look into it.
- Nova & stock launchers: The block on stock launcher didn't work because it isn't implemented for OS 4. As mentioned at top of OP, only OTA block is available for OS 4. I'll need to add it in an update. Hadn't thought about need for it when using the Nova tool.
Would you please look in /system/priv-app folder and see if com.teslacoil.launcher.apk is at the bottom of directory? If so, are perms set to rw- r-- r--? Let me know and we'll proceed from there to get you widgets. Thanks.

DoLooper said:
Thanks for feedback. Tools apparently need work for OS 4.5.5.1. I tested pretty well on 4.5.3 and 4.5.5, but not 4.5.5.1. There may be some peculiarity there.
- The play store error has been reported on some 2015 Fires (using a different tool, but same method to install). It's unclear why it happens on some devices and not others, and they haven't found a fix, but it may be an OS 4 issue on the Fire HDs. I'll look into it.
- Nova & stock launchers: The block on stock launcher didn't work because it isn't implemented for OS 4. As mentioned at top of OP, only OTA block is available for OS 4. I'll need to add it in an update. Hadn't thought about need for it when using the Nova tool.
Would you please look in /system/priv-app folder and see if com.teslacoil.launcher.apk is at the bottom of directory? If so, are perms set to rw- r-- r--? Let me know and we'll proceed from there to get you widgets. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the help!
I found the com.teslacoilsw.launcher-1.apk file, but it's in my /data/app folder... and it is chmod'ed to 644.
Also, I did successfully install the AppWidgetPicker.apk and LiveWallpapersPicker.apk files to /system/app using the "kindlefree" app, but I think that about all the app did. These files are also chmod'ed to 644.

notorious.dds said:
Thanks for the help!
I found the com.teslacoilsw.launcher-1.apk file, but it's in my /data/app folder... and it is chmod'ed to 644.
Also, I did successfully install the AppWidgetPicker.apk and LiveWallpapersPicker.apk files to /system/app using the "kindlefree" app, but I think that about all the app did. These files are also chmod'ed to 644.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been using OS 5 for too long! Forgot you can't get wallpaper on OS 4 without fussing. It's unclear from your post: Did the pickers get wallpaper to work? This is the way we did it back when we always booted twrp and installed xposed: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-hd/general/how-to-wallpaper-custom-launcher-t3123009
As to widgets: What I meant is, you should have /system/priv-app/com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk. Do you? I just retested this on 4.5.3. Nova (com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk) got copied there and chmod'ed to 644 as it should and widgets are working fine.
No wallpaper is a bad problem, though, and no tool can fix it--unless that LiveWallpapersPicker DID work. Let me know. And let me know about /system/priv-app/com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk.
BTW, how come you want to stay on OS 4?

DoLooper said:
I've been using OS 5 for too long! Forgot you can't get wallpaper on OS 4 without fussing. It's unclear from your post: Did the pickers get wallpaper to work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope.
DoLooper said:
This is the way we did it back when we always booted twrp and installed xposed: http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-hd/general/how-to-wallpaper-custom-launcher-t3123009
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I tried that to no avail, but I can't remember exactly which module I used.
DoLooper said:
As to widgets: What I meant is, you should have /system/priv-app/com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk. Do you? I just retested this on 4.5.3. Nova (com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk) got copied there and chmod'ed to 644 as it should and widgets are working fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I ended up installing Nova via the app store so that's why it wasn't on the system partition. However, my widgets seemed to work when I checked again. I have no idea why they wouldn't work when I first tried them. I did end up creating two simple scripts via the "Scripter" app that would enable and disable the stock launcher. I put them as widgets on the nova desktop allowing for single click toggling of the stock launcher.
DoLooper said:
No wallpaper is a bad problem, though, and no tool can fix it--unless that LiveWallpapersPicker DID work. Let me know. And let me know about /system/priv-app/com.teslacoil.launcher_4.2.2.apk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, nothing seemed to fix the wallpaper... always black. Am understanding this correctly that the wallpaper works on this thing if I load Lollipop?
DoLooper said:
BTW, how come you want to stay on OS 4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't want to fiddle around with change the bootloaders every time I wanted into TWRP. At this point, it doesn't matter anyway... I hard bricked the device by flashing the 5.2.0 stock recovery last night
The post about using this to revert to stock should be edited or removed. It's bad.
The only reason I was trying to revert to stock was that I ended up getting into a situation where the stock launcher would continue looping back to the Welcome/select language screen. I wiped cache, data, and dalvik and reflashed the 4.5.5 rom which didn't fix it. I even tried that same approach including a wipe of system... same result. I was quite surprised to see the problem continue even after wiping everything. At that point I figured I go back to full stock and start over... BAD IDEA.
Anyway, I ordered a new one and it should be here tomorrow. I'm now curious if it's possible to recover the bricked device via the UART port on the motherboard. We'll see.:fingers-crossed::fingers-crossed:

notorious.dds said:
. . .
I think I ended up installing Nova via the app store so that's why it wasn't on the system partition. However, my widgets seemed to work when I checked again. I have no idea why they wouldn't work when I first tried them. I did end up creating two simple scripts via the "Scripter" app that would enable and disable the stock launcher. I put them as widgets on the nova desktop allowing for single click toggling of the stock launcher.
No, nothing seemed to fix the wallpaper... always black. Am understanding this correctly that the wallpaper works on this thing if I load Lollipop?
I didn't want to fiddle around with change the bootloaders every time I wanted into TWRP. At this point, it doesn't matter anyway... I hard bricked the device by flashing the 5.2.0 stock recovery last night
The post about using this to revert to stock should be edited or removed. It's bad.
The only reason I was trying to revert to stock was that I ended up getting into a situation where the stock launcher would continue looping back to the Welcome/select language screen. I wiped cache, data, and dalvik and reflashed the 4.5.5 rom which didn't fix it. I even tried that same approach including a wipe of system... same result. I was quite surprised to see the problem continue even after wiping everything. At that point I figured I go back to full stock and start over... BAD IDEA.
Anyway, I ordered a new one and it should be here tomorrow. I'm now curious if it's possible to recover the bricked device via the UART port on the motherboard. We'll see.:fingers-crossed::fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to hear about the brick. Good thing Amazon is patient with us.
Yes, wallpaper works fine on OS 5. [For others who read this, on OS 4 the only way to get wallpaper is with Xposed (installed in TWRP) and the kindleBG module in the link I posted above. And BTW, although the tools don't block OS 4 Amazon launcher ATM, it can be done manually. Commands are here.]
Thanks for your input. Play store didn't work for me either this time, despite earlier success. Everything else except the launcher block (and other non-OTA blocks) does work, so for now I'm just going to edit post and see if there's any other interest in play store on OS 4. (I trust you'll get OS 5 on replacement or will want to update to it.)
As to TWRP: Once tablet is set up, booting TWRP isn't needed much except for upgrading. and bibikalka gives us lots of options for doing it.
Let us know if anything comes of UART port tests. You'd be the hero of the community!

Workaround for Windows username with spaces
The Install Other Launcher and Install Kingroot jobs may not complete if your Windows username has spaces in it. I'll fix this in next update. Meanwhile here's the workaround:
1. Right-click RUNME.bat and choose Edit. [file opens in Notepad]
2. Add a blank line under :: Set paths and run menu.
3. Type: SET "username=abc"
4. Make sure this section of RUNME looks like below and then save and close Notepad
Code:
:: Set paths and run menu.
SET "username=abc"
SET "main=%CD%\"
SET "jobsdir=%main%jobs\"
[remaining code]
This changes the username only for the tools. The rest of Windows continues to use the real username.

I'm getting ready to update. Please let me know if you found any problems.

Used the tool on my Fire HD 6 (4th Gen) running a Rooted OS 5.1.2.1 to install a new launcher and block OTA's, ads, fire launcher, appstore, and Amazon search. Everything worked without issue! Thanks for the awesome and simple to use tool! Tablet is now almost pure Android. Great work!!!
Sidenote: Used bibikalka's TUT (http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-hd/general/how-to-upgrade-to-lollipop-root-gapps-t3163950) on my Fire HD 6 that was currently running Fire OS 4.5.3 with TWRP Recovery to obtain a Rooted Fire OS 5.1.2.1..

I adb'd the 5.1.2 upgrade to my slab this way.
$ adb push update-kindle-20.5.4.2_user_542168620.bin /sdcard/
3047 KB/s (663908627 bytes in 212.722s)
My OS is FIRE OS 5.1.2 Build Date March 31, 2016 1:37 AM.
I tried and got an error to the effect, "cannot upgrade because the upgrade you are trying is older than the one you have".
So I'm probably running an even later version of 5.1.2 where they blocked that loophole.
I'm just going to by a cheap Chinese slab and root that.

wallywallywally said:
I adb'd the 5.1.2 upgrade to my slab this way.
$ adb push update-kindle-20.5.4.2_user_542168620.bin /sdcard/
3047 KB/s (663908627 bytes in 212.722s)
My OS is FIRE OS 5.1.2 Build Date March 31, 2016 1:37 AM.
I tried and got an error to the effect, "cannot upgrade because the upgrade you are trying is older than the one you have".
So I'm probably running an even later version of 5.1.2 where they blocked that loophole.
I'm just going to by a cheap Chinese slab and root that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
use adb sideload in Stock recovery
Sent from my KFFOWI using XDA Labs

sd_shadow said:
use adb sideload in Stock recovery
Sent from my KFFOWI using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yuh, I used sideload AND IT WORKED!!
I also have a fire 5th generation. Does the same procedure work for that, assuming I use the proper 5.1.2 for that device: https://kindle-fire-updates.s3.amaz...ate-kindle-global-37.5.4.2_user_542168620.bin

wallywallywally said:
Yuh, I used sideload AND IT WORKED!!
I also have a fire 5th generation. Does the same procedure work for that, assuming I use the proper 5.1.2 for that device: https://kindle-fire-updates.s3.amaz...ate-kindle-global-37.5.4.2_user_542168620.bin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes
Sent from my KFFOWI using XDA Labs

Confirmed, this procedure worked for Fire (5th generation), however the amazon update file is different (see a few posts back)

I just got a fire HD 6 (4th Gen) with the 4.5.2 OS.
Everything I see talks about 4.5.3 and later. I have not turned on wifi, so basically in a holding pattern for now. I want to root/twrp and maybe a custom rom.
Can some give me advice on the best path to take? Should I upgrade then root? Or root then upgrade? Any advice is appreciated.

FireTV-Settings 3.0 Mod Root works on Tank and Mantis without Amazon Launcher

!! deprecated !!

0815hoffi said:
FireTV-Settings 3.0 Mod Root works on Tank and Mantis without Amazon Launcher
based on https://github.com/rainman74/FireTV-Settings/releases
install as normal APK.
Root is needed.
NewSettingsGerRoot.apk = German
NewSettingsEngRoot.apk = English
FireTV-SettingsGer.zip = Android Studio Zip German
FireTV-SettingsEng.zip = Android Studio Zip English
Feel free to customize it for whatever works best for you! ...
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Click to collapse
Ok so the apk file is unnecessary with root since the zip is in charge of that correct? This is actually interesting considering that the Amazon Launcher being disabled with root therefore losing functionality to accessing settings unless you were to use adb commands.
Edit: the apk was supposed to be installed, works 100%

Skel40 said:
Ok so the apk file is unnecessary with root since the zip is in charge of that correct? This is actually interesting considering that the Amazon Launcher being disabled with root therefore losing functionality to accessing settings unless you were to use adb commands.
Edit: the apk was supposed to be installed, works 100%
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Questions...
So does the Zip need to be flashed?
Then install the APK?
Is the Amazon launcher disable by doing this, or do I have to disable that myself?
Can you easily remove it?

The Zip file is for customize.
SourceCode for Android Studio.
You must disable it .

OK so disable
com.amazon.tv.launcher
?
1. install APK
2. Flash zip ( for customize if you want)
3. disable launcher
The zip, what does it modify and how do you go back?
Sorry for the questions, just want to know what to expect if i have an issue...

Install other Launcher.
For mantis maybe you need FTVLaunchX to start the alternate Launcher.
#adb shell pm disable com.amazon.tv.launcher
Install apk to access the settings without amazon Launcher.
The Zip the SourceCode to build apk.
I hope it is understandable now

Thanks bro, this works perfect with ATV Launcher 0.1.2 now i can access amazon built-in apps on 4k stick.

Thanks for this.
Couple of queries:
Lots of icons on my custom launcher. But all start off at sleep. Is this normal? If so why so many icons?
The command to disable the amazon launcher is not working and I do have root. Any ideas?
Edit: Not to worry about the above. I found a new version that gives me just the one icon
Also found the instructions to delete the amazon launcher so that is good.
Only problem that some might have is installing new apps from the amazon marketplace (or whatever they call it).
Any ideas about how to do this?

Use this Version.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=82368799&postcount=1
Amazon Market is not working.
You must sideload the apps.
Also you can push the apps over the Amazon Website to your Stick.
App Updates should be installed automatic.

0815hoffi said:
Use this Version.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=82368799&postcount=1
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Click to collapse
Thanks for that.
I manage a lot of these sticks. Most I know the Amazon accounts for so will use the web site to push to them if they request new apps.
I will ask for the other account details but if they wont provide them I will send them to the website to install themselves if they want new apps.
It seems Amazon pushed out a new prime Video app today (or I was told about it today) that asks it you want to install it.
Was told it no longer works with this setup if it is installed. Was fine yesterday and no prompt to update then.
Might be a problem with the Prime Video app in general and not this setup, but all my sticks are running these fixes now.
Just tested on one and it is true. Trying to open Prime Video does nothing. Tried both the icons for it (one never worked but now both do not).
Will see if I can roll it back (once I find the original apk).
Thanks for this. So nice not to see the Amazon Launcher at all now.