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Long time reader, first time posting.
Install requires root.
Squirrel LLC just released an android version of their app Reflector ($7). This app can be installed fairly simply on the FireTV, turning it into an airplay receiver for screen sharing and display extension, not just video or audio playing.
This requires root (instructions here) and the google play store (instructions here- they are for kindle, but work) before you can install this program.
Once you have the play store installed and you are signed in, you will be able to install apps remotely. This is much easier, as the play store is somewhat difficult to navigate on the Fire TV itself. However, Google will think the Fire TV is not compatible with Reflector.
To circumvent compatibility restrictions, download Market Helper and install on your FireTV (sideload instructions here). This will allow you to spoof your device type and install the app. I used the Nexus 7 as the device type. Make sure you've run google play services and signed into the play store before you run this, so it can read your id. The activate buttons are invisible until you are selecting them, so just press down and over until you find what you want.
After setting up your Fire TV to look like a Nexus 7, head back to the play store and set Reflector to install remotely.
From here, you can use any airplay device to broadcast to the Fire TV!
Couldn't you use snappea instead of google play?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I wasn't able to get this to work in Extend Desktop mode with my Mac. Since there's only a 15 minute refund period, I already got the refund, so it's possible I was doing something wrong, but the Play description didn't mention Extend Desktop mode. I don't see how I was doing anything wrong though, since the only settings in the app is the Name and the Password (and I didn't set a password). I did remember to turn off AirPlay in my other AirPlay app before trying Reflector.
Prior to this, I was already using AirReceiver to handle IOS mirroring. If all you want is IOS mirroring, I believe it was less expensive. Since it was bought through the Amazon store, it shows up with an icon on main screen (in my Apps and Recent sections). I don't recall if you can buy it on the FireTV or not, but I think so. A Voice search for Air Receiver brings it up.
Thanks!
Hey Guys,
Sid from Squirrels here!
Thanks for the walkthrough and the instructions. We're glad you got everything working!
We've actually submitted Reflector to the Amazon Fire TV store. The approval process is a bit more lengthy and involved than normal Google Play submissions.
As for extended desktop from a computer. It should work alright. I'de be interested in seeing logs from this to see why it didn't work for you. You can email our support team and they'll be happy to get it working!
Thanks again for the instructions.
So why root?? Why not just side load reflector??
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
1975jamie said:
So why root?? Why not just side load reflector??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reflector is a paid app, and I have no experience sideloading paid apps / getting a signed apk out of one. I found it to be easier to root and install the play store than to bother with that. If you are aware of an easy method to get the APK out of a paid app, I'd love to hear it- I always pay for my apps, but sometimes I need to install them in a dev environment where the play store isn't available, and I'd like to know.
If you're concerned about rooting, I'd consider the advantages. Rooting is a piece of cake now thanks to Towelroot, and it gives you uped duper more functionality than you have without it, especially if you are using this device to run XBMC primarily.
sidneykeith said:
Hey Guys,
Sid from Squirrels here!
Thanks for the walkthrough and the instructions. We're glad you got everything working!
We've actually submitted Reflector to the Amazon Fire TV store. The approval process is a bit more lengthy and involved than normal Google Play submissions.
As for extended desktop from a computer. It should work alright. I'de be interested in seeing logs from this to see why it didn't work for you. You can email our support team and they'll be happy to get it working!
Thanks again for the instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the good customer support. I figured it was the Amazon store's lengthy submission process that was holding things up and not an actual compatibility issue, which is why I decided to hack this together.
I own no other Amazon devices (and probably won't), so it's to my advantage to keep all my purchases within one ecosystem. You may consider adding a little walkthrough on how to use the google play store to run your app on the firetv to your page, if you guys aren't fearful of the wrath of Bezos. I'm sure there are a lot of people like me who bought the firetv for the android, not the amazon.
Taige said:
I wasn't able to get this to work in Extend Desktop mode with my Mac. Since there's only a 15 minute refund period, I already got the refund, so it's possible I was doing something wrong, but the Play description didn't mention Extend Desktop mode. I don't see how I was doing anything wrong though, since the only settings in the app is the Name and the Password (and I didn't set a password). I did remember to turn off AirPlay in my other AirPlay app before trying Reflector.
Prior to this, I was already using AirReceiver to handle IOS mirroring. If all you want is IOS mirroring, I believe it was less expensive. Since it was bought through the Amazon store, it shows up with an icon on main screen (in my Apps and Recent sections). I don't recall if you can buy it on the FireTV or not, but I think so. A Voice search for Air Receiver brings it up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what happened there for you. Extended display was the default for me. That being said, the other app could have interfered, or maybe your settings in OSX weren't correct. I wish I could help you more, but Airplay is finicky enough as it is, without adding third party software. Maybe get in touch with Sid about that.
If anyone else is interested in this, my brother managed to get airsquirrel to work with reflector on the firetv, but it seemed to be more laggy than with true airplay. I'm not sure if that was the fault of his laptop or the software, so that might be worth looking into if you're a diehard windows user like I used to be.
hotterpop said:
Reflector is a paid app, and I have no experience sideloading paid apps / getting a signed apk out of one. I found it to be easier to root and install the play store than to bother with that. If you are aware of an easy method to get the APK out of a paid app, I'd love to hear it- I always pay for my apps, but sometimes I need to install them in a dev environment where the play store isn't available, and I'd like to know.
If you're concerned about rooting, I'd consider the advantages. Rooting is a piece of cake now thanks to Towelroot, and it gives you uped duper more functionality than you have without it, especially if you are using this device to run XBMC primarily.
Thanks for the good customer support. I figured it was the Amazon store's lengthy submission process that was holding things up and not an actual compatibility issue, which is why I decided to hack this together.
I own no other Amazon devices (and probably won't), so it's to my advantage to keep all my purchases within one ecosystem. You may consider adding a little walkthrough on how to use the google play store to run your app on the firetv to your page, if you guys aren't fearful of the wrath of Bezos. I'm sure there are a lot of people like me who bought the firetv for the android, not the amazon.
I'm not sure what happened there for you. Extended display was the default for me. That being said, the other app could have interfered, or maybe your settings in OSX weren't correct. I wish I could help you more, but Airplay is finicky enough as it is, without adding third party software. Maybe get in touch with Sid about that.
If anyone else is interested in this, my brother managed to get airsquirrel to work with reflector on the firetv, but it seemed to be more laggy than with true airplay. I'm not sure if that was the fault of his laptop or the software, so that might be worth looking into if you're a diehard windows user like I used to be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have an android phone that I download the google play app to and then use Es file explorer to back up the app. Then sideload it to the firetv.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Hey there! I put together a complete video walkthrough for converting your FireTV to an XBMC box.
This includes:
Root
Preventing Amazon updates
Making XBMC the launcher
Installing apps to XBMC homepage
Demo of Mupen64+(N64 emulator) and Reflector (Airplay)
Remember, if you are buying a new FireTV, make sure to follow the instructions here to make sure it doesn't update to an unrootable version. In short, either block access at the router level, or disconnect wifi / ethernet right after you start the device and connect to the network, before the download of the new version can finish.
Enjoy! Let me know if you'd like me to do video walkthroughs of anything else, like using stickmount, connecting to Windows computers over the network, etc.
hotterpop said:
Hey there! I put together a complete video walkthrough for converting your FireTV to an XBMC box. This includes:
Root
Preventing Amazon updates
Making XBMC the launcher
Installing apps to XBMC homepage
Demo of Mupen64+(N64 emulator) and Reflector (Airplay)
Remember, if you are buying a new FireTV, make sure to follow the instructions here to make sure it doesn't update to an unrootable version. In short, either block access at the router level, or disconnect wifi / ethernet right after you start the device and connect to the network, before the download of the new version can finish.
Enjoy! Let me know if you'd like me to do video walkthroughs of anything else, like using stickmount, connecting to Windows computers over the network, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet, nice!
Great walk through wish I could use the whole lot.
Mainly using xbmc and its a great improvement on my Pi but as I am in UK no root so a "here's what you can do with unrooted AFTV" vid would nice, having said that the llama trick for short cut works great and I don't think I need much more
Great Effort. You should do another tutorial using FireTVUtility. I would be easier, w/o any commands to type directly in adb shell.
Legolas2 said:
Great Effort. You should do another tutorial using FireTVUtility. I would be easier, w/o any commands to type directly in adb shell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll look into it. It doesn't look like it really needs any help though- I haven't used this program in particular, but my experience with pc-side all in one solutions is that if they work, they work, and if they don't, there's not much the user can do to fix it. It also seems that the developer is pretty active, so any video I make may be out of date rather quickly. That being said, if other folks agree that there should be a tutorial for this, I'll put it together.
Thanks for passing this utility on, though. Tools like this were essential to me when I started messing with cm 10 on an old phone of mine last year, which extended its useful life until I got my (glorious) OnePlus in July. My experience there really hit me with the modding bug, and I have been messing with android since. The purpose of the video was to help introduce people to the idea that android is open and ready to tinker with, in addition to taking advantage of the FireTV's potential with Kodi. If you have any more requests though, I'd love to hear them, and I'll do my best to fulfill them as time permits
Launcher
Hey, Thx for the awesome Video. Just a question....How do you get it to automatically boot into XBMC? I want to use XBMC as my home screen/launcher like you have shown in your video. I really appreciate it! Thanks!
Correction: HDExposed section
Kdurahm said:
Hey, Thx for the awesome Video. Just a question....How do you get it to automatically boot into XBMC? I want to use XBMC as my home screen/launcher like you have shown in your video. I really appreciate it! Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey there,
Sorry about the confusion. Looks like in my hasty editing I accidentally cut out a step. I've added an annotation to the video that addresses this, so you should be set if you re-watch minutes 21-25 of the video. I accidentally forgot to include that you need to go into the Modules section of HDExposed and, using a mouse, check the two boxes there as well before you reboot.
Thanks for pointing that out!
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Berrybare said:
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey there!
Glad you like my walkthrough. If you use the router-level blocking method, it will need to be applied to any and every network the FireTV connects to. This is a great way to guarantee that the FireTV does not update, but should only be considered a temporary method until you can disable updating permanently on the device itself. If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Because of the issue with devices connecting and automatically updating to an unrootable version, I'd recommend you do the network-level update blocker (like it sounds like you've already done) and then use the device-level root prevention I described in the video.
Please let me know if you have any questions
Berrybare said:
This is a great tutorial! Thank you
I have a couple of other fire TVs to root that I'm going to pass off to my friends. If
I complete the root and disable the ota updates at my house, when they plug it in their home, the firetvs won't loose the root right? Should they still add the 2 sites to block
On their router?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ultimate protection is having CWM aka custom recovery install. On top of the disabled OTA Update. Both done very easily with the AFTV Utility app mentioned above... Everybody should keep their routers blocking the IP's. Specially if you are going to be working on non-rooted AFTV's. But you can run an CWM'd AFTV on an unblocking router if it can't be helped.
hotterpop said:
Hey there!
Glad you like my walkthrough. If you use the router-level blocking method, it will need to be applied to any and every network the FireTV connects to. This is a great way to guarantee that the FireTV does not update, but should only be considered a temporary method until you can disable updating permanently on the device itself. If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Because of the issue with devices connecting and automatically updating to an unrootable version, I'd recommend you do the network-level update blocker (like it sounds like you've already done) and then use the device-level root prevention I described in the video.
Please let me know if you have any questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I would wait for the next release of both apss (adbFire & AFTV Utility) since so much has change the last 24 hours (unlock bootloader + new CWM). I would love to see a video using the AFTV Utility app to take care of all including the new options. Including the Mount external USB storage script.... It would be massive but all encompassing. I think the only thing waiting for an update is RBox's [XPosed] Mod's... Specifically the menu items part...
Sounds great. Post here when the new software is ready and I will get recording!
hotterpop said:
Sounds great. Post here when the new software is ready and I will get recording!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great.. Will let you know when it gets posted..
hotterpop said:
Hey there!
If you go to around minute 14 of my video, you'll see how to disable the update function on the device itself. This is the only way to guarantee that the device won't update in the future, no matter what it connects to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there an adb command to verify the "pm disable com.amazon.dcp" status. I ran this command months ago and have had no unwanted updates ruin root on the Fire TV. Perhaps, it is not necessary but just looking to be sure.
mjbxx said:
Is there an adb command to verify the "pm disable com.amazon.dcp" status. I ran this command months ago and have had no unwanted updates ruin root on the Fire TV. Perhaps, it is not necessary but just looking to be sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know, but if you don't have router level blocking and you haven't received any updates, you are safe. Usually the update occurs quite quickly.
hotterpop said:
I don't know, but if you don't have router level blocking and you haven't received any updates, you are safe. Usually the update occurs quite quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for bumping, I just wondered if there was any advance on the new software/video?
I have an untouched UK AFTV and just waiting for this video with new software for the complete start to finish setup before i do something wrong!
Let me know if im better off just following your first video if this new software stuff is not going to be released for a while.
Thanks
My recommendation is always to code by hand. That's how I learned, and I feel like it's a great way to learn about how Android really works. That being said, it's not for everyone, and I understand any nervousness you may have.
I'll probably have the video using the tool by the end of the week.
hotterpop said:
My recommendation is always to code by hand. That's how I learned, and I feel like it's a great way to learn about how Android really works. That being said, it's not for everyone, and I understand any nervousness you may have.
I'll probably have the video using the tool by the end of the week.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
swiss_lis said:
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand your concern. However, I would definitely consider rooting the device. While you can use XBMC and play emulators on the FTV without root, it is pretty inconvenient. Rooting isn't hard, and shouldn't be something that scares you at all.
If you are willing, my video shows you exactly what to type every step of the way. There's lots of support if you get lost, and you can always ask me questions here- I don't mind looking up documentation for you if you need it. If you have access to your router, once you have blocked the update sites there, you will be safe to take as long as you need to.
I'll try to have the other videos done soon. I wish I had more time in my life right now for stuff like that, but you know we all have to make a living somehow
I'll be sure to post in here when the tutorials are done.
swiss_lis said:
Sorry for bumping, I just wondered if there was any advance on the new software/video?
I have an untouched UK AFTV and just waiting for this video with new software for the complete start to finish setup before i do something wrong!
Let me know if im better off just following your first video if this new software stuff is not going to be released for a while.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
swiss_lis said:
Unfortunately im not very technically minded, and would end up messing up unless I followed a guide from someone who knows their stuff!!
I will keep it in the wrapper until you can bring out the new video, id feel a lot safer and not end up bricking it or non rootable forever!
If i can make one request, I really will just want to use the AFTV for XBMC and maybe some emulators... So if its possible to include how to have the quickest access to XBMC from boot, id really appreciate it. Not sure how easily that is done with a non rootable AFTV?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those that bought their FTV's in the UK or GER & did not import US FTV's. The best you can hope for right now is block the two IP's so it doesn't keep auto updating. In case there is ever a new rooting option. UK & GER FTV's can not be rooted. You should setup your FTV with XBMC & anything else you would like within the unrooted options.
Once you have properly blocked update IP's & boot up & check your FW version which 99.99% chance it will be 51.1.4.0_user_514006420 (Unrootable) . You should feel safe to play with your FTV...
What router do you have ?? This link just shows you pictures of different IP blocking router interfaces like Tomato, DD-WRT, Asus, NetGear, Untangle, OpenDNS..
http://www.aftvnews.com/how-to-block-amazon-fire-tv-update-to-ensure-rooting/
This one tells you what to block now...
http://www.aftvnews.com/how-to-setup-a-new-fire-tv-without-blocking-root/
Method 1: Domain blocking with Router – Recommended Method
1. Before powering on the Fire TV, go into your router’s settings and block access to the following two domains:
amzdigitaldownloads.edgesuite.net
softwareupdates.amazon.com
If you do not know how to do this, you can refer to my guide or search the internet for instruction for your particular router.
NOTE: Do NOT block firs-ta-g7g.amazon.com as it is unnecessary for blocking updates and will cause problems during the initial setup if blocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Start enjoying your FTV as soon as you block those IP's correctly after verifying the FW you's came with...
Want to thank you both for good indepth responses.
I will be giving it a go tomorrow hopefully. Hoping that if i block updates for now then a root option may become available somewhere down the line, but till then i will enjoy the improvement of XBMC on the FTV rather than my rather slow raspberry Pi.
Many thanks guys
I always try on not to be a party p**per but also would like to make this debate as civilized as possible so no need to bash me if you found my doubts in a negative way.
But after spending all this time with the Nexus Player of Google, I found myself with the conclusion, why is worthy my time for any root for the device.
At least I have a goal on showing my step-dad that paying DirecTV (Nothing against DirecTV BTW, just want to save money) is not 24/7 cost-effective versus Google Play Service and popular streaming services.
Heck, I didn't even felt left out in terms that versus Apple TV, the Nexus Player is still short without service like WWE, Amazon, NFL, etc. I was happy with the service available as of the writing of this.
To tell you the truth, the exact moment when I read all the possibility for free TV and streaming needs with Kodi (XBMC), I realized that was exactly why I bought the Google Nexus Player on the first place, beside having an alternate set-top box instead of my lovely Playstation 3 and except for improvement on hardware level for Android TV (reboot capacity WILL BE so WELCOMED!) I don't see how rooting the device can be compared as rooting a Smartphone.
Also some needs that we find regularly on Android Smartphone can be requested to Google either by AOSP or direct feedback (I realize that Google might just ignore anyways) and I am pretty sure that future Android 5.0.x or 5.x version will be synonymous of improvements.
No, this is not ignorance and definitely not naive-ness, perhaps I need another point of view to better understand or see more benefits for rooting the device.
Again, please I created this thread as a informative and debatable spot for this topic, do not flame me and not flame each other if you don't agree with an specific opinion.
TheGeeZus said:
I always try on not to be a party p**per but also would like to make this debate as civilized as possible so no need to bash me if you found my doubts in a negative way.
But after spending all this time with the Nexus Player of Google, I found myself with the conclusion, why is worthy my time for any root for the device.
At least I have a goal on showing my step-dad that paying DirecTV (Nothing against DirecTV BTW, just want to save money) is not 24/7 cost-effective versus Google Play Service and popular streaming services.
Heck, I didn't even felt left out in terms that versus Apple TV, the Nexus Player is still short without service like WWE, Amazon, NFL, etc. I was happy with the service available as of the writing of this.
To tell you the truth, the exact moment when I read all the possibility for free TV and streaming needs with Kodi (XBMC), I realized that was exactly why I bought the Google Nexus Player on the first place, beside having an alternate set-top box instead of my lovely Playstation 3 and except for improvement on hardware level for Android TV (reboot capacity WILL BE so WELCOMED!) I don't see how rooting the device can be compared as rooting a Smartphone.
Also some needs that we find regularly on Android Smartphone can be requested to Google either by AOSP or direct feedback (I realize that Google might just ignore anyways) and I am pretty sure that future Android 5.0.x or 5.x version will be synonymous of improvements.
No, this is not ignorance and definitely not naive-ness, perhaps I need another point of view to better understand or see more benefits for rooting the device.
Again, please I created this thread as a informative and debatable spot for this topic, do not flame me and not flame each other if you don't agree with an specific opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dunno, i rooted mine because i really needed to have expandable storage. So i rooted for chainfires stickmount. So i could have all my movies on my external hard drive run through xbmc natively.
↑This!↑
I have not rooted mine but if i do it will be for the ex-storage as well.. i am at the point of not storing a lot of movies because they are almost all online for a fee or free if you go that way.. We watch a movie once or twice and that is the end of it.. So to add to your debate i don't at this point see why you would root this device.
Would like a reboot function..
Im sure someone will come up with some nice ways to use root.. give them a week or so lol..
The main current use for rooting in my home is support for PS3 & 4 controllers wirelessly, using stick mount & folder mount to store game data and kodi data on an external drive and the ability to modify xml to re-arrange the order of programs in the NP's leanback interface (kodi gets top billing). My daughters now have immediate access to over twenty very large installed games so far thanks to folder mount. I also store all my kodi fanart, cover art, cd art, etc on the external as it takes up so much space internally for my large media collection that kodi accesses from my nas.
There will be future uses for root as well, of course (there always is), but these were my immediate needs.
Elrondolio said:
The main current use for rooting in my home is support for PS3 & 4 controllers wirelessly, using stick mount & folder mount to store game data and kodi data on an external drive and the ability to modify xml to re-arrange the order of programs in the NP's leanback interface (kodi gets top billing).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recently rooted my NP, and I'm completely new to android and rooting. My main desire is to be able to get all of my sideloaded apps into the leanback interface, and to be able to rearrange the order and hide app icons I don't use. I've noticed by default Kodi RC2 appears in the leanback interface.
Do you have any tips for modifying the leanback interface in the way I've described?
kaess said:
I recently rooted my NP, and I'm completely new to android and rooting. My main desire is to be able to get all of my sideloaded apps into the leanback interface, and to be able to rearrange the order and hide app icons I don't use. I've noticed by default Kodi RC2 appears in the leanback interface.
Do you have any tips for modifying the leanback interface in the way I've described?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since things are so new with the leanback launcher there hasn't been much time for any semi-automated tools/apps to be coded to accomplish what you want. Manually, however, is very doable depending on your desired time investment.
You can modify select sideloaded apps to make them show up on the leanback interface by uncompressing its apk, editing its manifest then re-compressing and re-sideloading. See this post: How to sideload XBMC/Kodi on Nexus Player. See also this helpful post from @zlexy : [Q] Launching Netflix From Within Kodi.
You can re-arrange the order of apps listed in the leanback interface by editing leanback launcher's database. See this post by @ariful : [Q] Rearranging Apps on Android TV Nexus Player.
Again, these methods are a bit labour intensive... it'll have to be that way until more devs start/finish coding for this brand new interface/device and/or for Google to release more customizable updates. Good luck.
Elrondolio said:
Since things are so new with the leanback launcher there hasn't been much time for any semi-automated tools/apps to be coded to accomplish what you want. Manually, however, is very doable depending on your desired time investment.
You can modify select sideloaded apps to make them show up on the leanback interface by uncompressing its apk, editing its manifest then re-compressing and re-sideloading. See this post: How to sideload XBMC/Kodi on Nexus Player. See also this helpful post from @zlexy : [Q] Launching Netflix From Within Kodi.
You can re-arrange the order of apps listed in the leanback interface by editing leanback launcher's database. See this post by @ariful : [Q] Rearranging Apps on Android TV Nexus Player.
Again, these methods are a bit labour intensive... it'll have to be that way until more devs start/finish coding for this brand new interface/device and/or for Google to release more customizable updates. Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The last thing you said is exactly why I am resisting the temptation.
I am being fair with the fact that this is the first face of Android Tv and there is yet more to see and I am faithful that most feature that needs root for now, Google might have something on their sleeves, but they are waiting to see how many Nexus Player gets sold, specially after the holidays.
My mom and my step-dad were impressed with the Nexus Player so great, that my step-dad sold me the Google Chromecast as he wanted to have an experience on his own and he really didn't find the Cast environment hard but he liked the more controlled environment of the Nexus Player, so we are buying a second one for me and I will let him take the first one after the second arrives.
I think that is another example that rooting (again, my exception is that a proven restart method gets developed) for now is not needed in base of a normal usage and still haven't got the problem of storage (yet, I know the day will come).
Is it just me, or does anyone else not see much hope in this platform? I got into the game a little late and it seems these havent been rootable for nearly a year... Ive been looking for an app that can remotely control any AFTV platform without root, and im not having any luck. Its extremely frustrating to be so locked down and the other android options are sketchy and unstable. Just going through several websites it seems these lost a lot of support, would I be wrong?
hyperblu said:
Is it just me, or does anyone else not see much hope in this platform? I got into the game a little late and it seems these havent been rootable for nearly a year... Ive been looking for an app that can remotely control any AFTV platform without root, and im not having any luck. Its extremely frustrating to be so locked down and the other android options are sketchy and unstable. Just going through several websites it seems these lost a lot of support, would I be wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's the big deal.
I never rooted mine and it does everything I need it too.
I use a USB airmouse and the Amazon gamepad for Kodi, NES, SNES, n64, Mobdro ect ect.
Sent from my FRD-L04 using Tapatalk
hyperblu said:
Is it just me, or does anyone else not see much hope in this platform? I got into the game a little late and it seems these havent been rootable for nearly a year... Ive been looking for an app that can remotely control any AFTV platform without root, and im not having any luck. Its extremely frustrating to be so locked down and the other android options are sketchy and unstable. Just going through several websites it seems these lost a lot of support, would I be wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Remotely control? Elaborate on that a little. I'm running 2 boxes and a new and an old stick in my house since I cut cable in January. Boxes are rooted, but I haven't gone as far as messing with Xposed with those. Between Plex, Kodi, emulators, Netflix, PSVue (for now) and the fact that I have had Amazon Prime for some time, all of my bases are covered plus some just with one box or stick. I can easily stream from my PC or phone, and watch or listen to whatever I want. What is it you are looking for these to do? Just curious. I would also note that besides the fact that it disables automatic updates and I can update at will, I don't see much use myself for them being rooted. I don't utilize root access on my boxes. Except to get PsVue to run.
I'm flashing my kodi build to a few firesticks for Christmas presents and need to be able to access them remotely/screen share to update them or provide help if it's needed. I am able to sideload TeamViewer Quicksupport and screen share, but the Fire tv OS requires root to actually control input. So now I am limited to file transfers in the background, or casting a pointer on where they need to click. The only way I can think of doing both would be to port forward their routers to use a remote. Just a nice inconvenience I get to deal with.
I've tried just about every option there is. Chrome extensions, splashtop, vnc, all of them run into the same issue.
I have a couple sticks nib that have been sitting over a year that should be rootable. Tons on eBay as well.
Why not use TeamViewer or Skype to connect to a PC at the location the device is and do what you need to do? ADBFire will let you side load almost any app from a Windows/Linux/Mac. Small download and easy to use. You can also use ADBFire for SSH access and ADB commands. Putty may work in this scenario as well.
Hi ,
I have amazon Fire Tv2 with updated Fire Os 5.2.4. I just want to flash the custom kernel images into the fire tv 2, for that i need to root the device.
How to root the amazon fire tv2 with 5.2.4 version. I found methods for Fire OS 5.2.1 and lower versions, does those methods work for 5.2.4 version ?
Is it possible to root Fire Os 5.2.4 Version ?
Please direct me to the rooting methods links.
Thanks in advance.
rtfm
There is no known root method for 5.2.4.0, I wish there was
Sent from my KFFOWI using Tapatalk
No, it is not possible to root 5.2.4.0 on any device yet. I track all rooting methods for all Fire TV and Fire TV Stick models here: http://www.aftvnews.com/root
This is showing like this person found root...
I believe the hardware mod works. A bit of a nuisance.
JeffDC said:
I believe the hardware mod works. A bit of a nuisance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello Team,
i want to root my new firetv, using emmc connecting method. i ordered the maximus low-volt adaptor and the transcent sd adapter.
i soldered the low-volt adapter ( really...really. small parts ! a very hard job....blue led is working )
then i opened the firetv and i am was wondering about the pcb layout .. it is completely different like on the pics in the net
.does anybody have the solder points for this ( Firetv Board DV83YW )
i am too new here for posting pictures links , sorry ..
greets
mike
Hello Mike,
i was surprised too when i take a look inside the new firetv2 box
I uploaded some pictures on gdrive.
can anyone help?
hppts..//drive.google.com/folderview?id=0BylaEM6wx1JOUjVVeGN3MWU5TDA
Same here. Waiting to see if anyone know of the new layout pins (if they are still exposed).
Here is my PCB....
AFTVnews.com said:
No, it is not possible to root 5.2.4.0 on any device yet. I track all rooting methods for all Fire TV and Fire TV Stick models here: http://www.aftvnews.com/root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Love your site bro, thanks for all the great info!
anthonykash said:
Love your site bro, thanks for all the great info!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome and thanks!
@AFTVnews.com
Also love your site. I have a question you could probably quickly answer:
I need to get stock amazon app "freetime" running on my firetv (box, not stick). I confirmed with Amazon that the freetime app is disabled from running on the current Fire TV firmware version (they couldn't confirm which version actually disabled it, just that it is a feature they have sunset on fire tv). I have the app installed, but it is not visible from app searches and not launchable from the "manage applications" menu in settings. (only force stop)
My current firmware is the latest version (Oct 19th, 5.2.something) and not rootable, but I don't have the skills to experiment with a new device anyway. (I've rooted my XT897 and SM-950F, but can barely handle that).
Let me know if you think it's possible:
1. That amazon's server side would allow freetime to function on a fire TV, despite amazon sunsetting the feature, assuming I could get the app to run locally.
Assuming #1, then
2. To sideload, modify, or otherwise get freetime working on my current Fire TV.
or
3. Downgrade my current firmware to a previous version that would run freetime.
or
4. To find for purchase a fire TV with a different firmware that would allow running freetime.
Thanks in advance. The motivation is that freetime lets me allow my young kids the ability to choose from a pre-selected library of videos and otherwise locks-down our TV for their safety etc.
scuba1999 said:
@AFTVnews.com
Also love your site. I have a question you could probably quickly answer:
I need to get stock amazon app "freetime" running on my firetv (box, not stick). I confirmed with Amazon that the freetime app is disabled from running on the current Fire TV firmware version (they couldn't confirm which version actually disabled it, just that it is a feature they have sunset on fire tv). I have the app installed, but it is not visible from app searches and not launchable from the "manage applications" menu in settings. (only force stop)
My current firmware is the latest version (Oct 19th, 5.2.something) and not rootable, but I don't have the skills to experiment with a new device anyway. (I've rooted my XT897 and SM-950F, but can barely handle that).
Let me know if you think it's possible:
1. That amazon's server side would allow freetime to function on a fire TV, despite amazon sunsetting the feature, assuming I could get the app to run locally.
Assuming #1, then
2. To sideload, modify, or otherwise get freetime working on my current Fire TV.
or
3. Downgrade my current firmware to a previous version that would run freetime.
or
4. To find for purchase a fire TV with a different firmware that would allow running freetime.
Thanks in advance. The motivation is that freetime lets me allow my young kids the ability to choose from a pre-selected library of videos and otherwise locks-down our TV for their safety etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I knew the newer devices didn't have Freetime, but I had no idea older devices/software disabled it also. I'll need to look into this further to fully undestand what is going on.
As for your questions, I doubt Freetime will work locally without Amazon's backend support. That's because the feature is reliant on child profiles created and stored on Amazon's servers. However, just because they say they have sunset the feature on Fire TV, that doesn't necessarily mean their servers are no longer replying to the requests from the Fire TV. So if you could get the app to run, I expect it would still work, but again, I need to look into it further.
There is no way to downgrade your firmware unless you root the device. Once rooted, it's simply a matter of selecting the pre-rooted version you want to use and installing it through TWRP.
I'll try to find time to test older firmware on a rooted device to see if Freetime works on it. That will tell us if finding a Fire TV running an older version will work for you.
AFTVnews.com said:
I knew the newer devices didn't have Freetime, but I had no idea older devices/software disabled it also. I'll need to look into this further to fully undestand what is going on.
As for your questions, I doubt Freetime will work locally without Amazon's backend support. That's because the feature is reliant on child profiles created and stored on Amazon's servers. However, just because they say they have sunset the feature on Fire TV, that doesn't necessarily mean their servers are no longer replying to the requests from the Fire TV. So if you could get the app to run, I expect it would still work, but again, I need to look into it further.
There is no way to downgrade your firmware unless you root the device. Once rooted, it's simply a matter of selecting the pre-rooted version you want to use and installing it through TWRP.
I'll try to find time to test older firmware on a rooted device to see if Freetime works on it. That will tell us if finding a Fire TV running an older version will work for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot. Let me know. And yes, by 'locally' I just meant 'assuming I could get the client app running' that the amazon servers would still talk to it and feed it the content I choose for the kids profile, etc.. I am hopeful on that front because freetime seems to be popular and remain supported on the fire tablet devices, so maybe the server side will remain device agnostic. Thanks in advance for your time in testing.