I've been searching for a couple of hours and there's no guides or even clarification about what is possible with regards to running non-tv apps on the shield / android TV.
I really need to install a custom internet browser, VoIP apps, syncthing, firewall, maybe libre office who knows etc.
So:
- How do you install Full Google PlayStore?
- Do you need to root? (guide 1)(guide 2)
- I heard you can alternatively sideload apps via ADB. So I guess you need TWRP, and root? And where do you get the apks from?
In general, are there any non-UX limitations of android TV that would cause apps to not run? Or does it have the same capabilities as plugging in a mouse & kb into my phone's OTG port and then casting its screen to a TV?
Well here's a few thoughts without going into too much detail as I'm at work:
Full google play will need a custom rom I believe and you'll need to give up the android tv version of play and leanback functionality (I think)
There may be another method (still losing androidtv but probably needing root)
You can sideload via ADB or via a sideloading app. Or using network shares, USB storage, USB transfer etc.
In the past I've used Titanium Backup (rooted naturally) installed a load of games to my phone then moved the backups to an SD/USB to restore on the SHIELD.
There are also dubious website and alternative stores you can install or visit on the SHIELD. Not a fan of those tbh.
You can get APK downloader addons for web browsers that allow you to download directly from Play Store website. Chrome android doesn't support these I am lead to believe... but installing Yandex broweser and installing the chrome addon to that apparently might work. So then load Play Store in Yandex browser and you can get your apps direct from google... just sadly not the paid ones.
I've been meaning to get on this again myself. I'm really quite pissed that most of my paid Rockstar android games won't install from AndroidTV Play store. These games run fine on SHIELD but are flagged as unsupported. Thus forcing you to download them from dubious sources to get running due to the DRM. The TV store is very disapointing, the layout is bad, there's no reviews and developers just don't seem interested in keeping their apps accessible on the platform when they otherwise should be. The Rockstar games in particular run fantastic on the SHIELD and if I were Google or Nvidia I'd actively be trying to encourage Rockstar to promote these games as SHIELD compatible or enhanced!
I don't know about any technical disadvantages to the platform that hold things back but I'm sure many people here will be far more knowledgable. I just assume an app has to be fully functional with just the remote or joypad to be ATV compliant. I'm not entirely sure on this last question but I will say this, every app I've sideloaded has worked as long as it doesn't require touch control in games. I use a 5way hub so I've always got mouse/keyboard and additional storage options etc. If it can be controlled with one finger you can use a mouse to facilitate that.
thanks for the input. Yeah it sucks for paid apps and games. First I'll see if I can get by with just root and these methods, because I couldn't find any good custom roms for the shield. There is one on another forum but I couldn't get it installed (got stuck at nvidia logo after a successful install)..
I'm a noob to android TV, what's "leanback functionality"?
Twodordan said:
thanks for the input. Yeah it sucks for paid apps and games. First I'll see if I can get by with just root and these methods, because I couldn't find any good custom roms for the shield. There is one on another forum but I couldn't get it installed (got stuck at nvidia logo after a successful install)..
I'm a noob to android TV, what's "leanback functionality"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can sideload any apk to the shield if rooted but there are apk's made for android tv and just mobile apk's with mobile apl's you lose some functionality of android tv however a keyboard mouse combo or even nvidia shield tv app will help you navigate through those apk's that are not made for android tv
As far as I know, sideloading apps means finding an apk, placing it on the device, and then running it (and allowing installation from unknown sources).
So at what point in this process do I require root? Do I need the root if it's an apk not made for Android TV? What is that process exactly?
Twodordan said:
As far as I know, sideloading apps means finding an apk, placing it on the device, and then running it (and allowing installation from unknown sources).
So at what point in this process do I require root? Do I need the root if it's an apk not made for Android TV? What is that process exactly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I side load stuff to my non rooted shield all the time its true not all apps will work but a majority of them will for some apps that have only a vertical view you can use apps like set orientation to have it in landscape mode just allow install of unknown apps for the file browser you use on the shield.
https://apkpure.com/set-orientation/com.googlecode.eyesfree.setorientation
You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine.
Yeah I always keep my SHIELD rooted for this reason. I don't know what the situation is with TWRP recovery at the moment but I know it stopped working in one of the recent updates. By being rooted you can use Flashfire app to flash zips to the SHIELD if you need to flash let's say GLTools or something like that. I mainly use that to force antialiasing for certain games. One thing you will want is either Sideload Launcher (on Play Store) or TV App Repo. Sideload launcher just loads a launcher that includes your non TV apps (They don't all work with the leanback launcher) or you can use TV App Repo to make shortcuts to them on the leanback launcher. TV App Repo will also need root to work, so yeah that's a great reason to have root when sideloading.
I could adb install the sideload launcher apk (got it from apkpure) to my 16gb shield tv 2017, via a usb-to-usb cable, and it works just fine without root.
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
[Edit] Installed TV Launcher instead of sideload launcher. It can replace the default launcher and it is also so much nicer: https://apkpure.com/tvlauncher/com.awe.dev.pro.tv
[Edit] So a custom launcher like TV Launcher will insert itself as a suggestion whenever you press the home screen, and you can set it to Always use this launcher, however in many situations, like restarting your shield, it will default back to the stock launcher. You can read this but it's still fine to always have a prompt whenever you press home: https://www.reddit.com/r/ShieldAndr...hange_default_launcher_on_shield_2017_nougat/
I use Yalp store and set it up as different device (in my case Samsung Galaxy Tab S3). Works really fine for 95% of the time.
Question Please?
Can you please say which shield TV you have? I am thinking of buying one but am put off by the lack of full play store. Being able to install any apk from a USB stick may sway me (but still not sure). What I plan to do is install any apps I want on my phone, use an apk extractor to get the apk, put it on USB then use CX file explorer to click and install. Does that sound all possible on non-rooted latest full Shield?
Cheers.
Eric.
"You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine."
---------- Post added at 02:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:44 AM ----------
PS Since you can install apk's easily did you ever try to sideload the Google play store apk (along with Google Play Services apk to see if they will install?
That would be interesting.
Gaps download for HUAWEI Chinese phones would be easy to obtain.
DBCAB said:
I side load stuff to my non rooted shield all the time its true not all apps will work but a majority of them will for some apps that have only a vertical view you can use apps like set orientation to have it in landscape mode just allow install of unknown apps for the file browser you use on the shield.
https://apkpure.com/set-orientation/com.googlecode.eyesfree.setorientation
You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Twodordan said:
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need the developer image to get root.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/shield-tv/development/kernel-overclock-kernel-2-22-ghz-t3943079
And if you don't flash twrp, getting updates will work fine, you will just have to root again.
Twodordan said:
I could adb install the sideload launcher apk (got it from apkpure) to my 16gb shield tv 2017, via a usb-to-usb cable, and it works just fine without root.
Installing root is such a goddamn nightmare. You have to flash a full developer stock image for which you have to sign up to get from nvidia, then install magisk etc, and the killer is you gotta do this manual developer whole-image flashing nonsense every time there's an update from nvidia. Seriously why the hell can't we android users just get a proper version of the full opensource debloated OS that updates itself like a sane person? X_X
[Edit] Installed TV Launcher instead of sideload launcher. It can replace the default launcher and it is also so much nicer: https://apkpure.com/tvlauncher/com.awe.dev.pro.tv
[Edit] So a custom launcher like TV Launcher will insert itself as a suggestion whenever you press the home screen, and you can set it to Always use this launcher, however in many situations, like restarting your shield, it will default back to the stock launcher. You can read this but it's still fine to always have a prompt whenever you press home: https://www.reddit.com/r/ShieldAndr...hange_default_launcher_on_shield_2017_nougat/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is rooting a nightmare ? Once your bootloader is unlocked it literally takes 5 minutes to root..
Unlock bootloader
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot boot twrp.img
install magisk zip
Reboot , you're rooted..
I don't understand why people suggest any other file explorer besides "x-plore". By far the best file explorer out there, 100% crap free. You can install any APK from any location using x-plore.. Most of the time I leave the APK on my network , that network drive is mapped in the shield settings, I simply browse to it with x-plore , and install any APK. If it doesn't make a shortcut in the android tv menu , then simply use "sideload launcher" by chainfire to launch whichever app doesn'T show up on the main menu.
ericritou said:
Can you please say which shield TV you have? I am thinking of buying one but am put off by the lack of full play store. Being able to install any apk from a USB stick may sway me (but still not sure). What I plan to do is install any apps I want on my phone, use an apk extractor to get the apk, put it on USB then use CX file explorer to click and install. Does that sound all possible on non-rooted latest full Shield?
Cheers.
Eric.
"You can simply place the apk into your downloads folder or wherever you like on the shield tv then install it from there using a file browser I personally use FX file explorer on shield but any should work. You can also use a file browser to add your cloud like google drive or one drive or whatever and install directly from there or browse to a shared folder on pc and install it that way too whatever is easier for you.
Apps that require root to run will not of course work properly on a non rooted device, however there are plenty of apps that do not require root that install and run just fine."
---------- Post added at 02:52 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:44 AM ----------
PS Since you can install apk's easily did you ever try to sideload the Google play store apk (along with Google Play Services apk to see if they will install?
That would be interesting.
Gaps download for HUAWEI Chinese phones would be easy to obtain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.
Roamin64 said:
How is rooting a nightmare ? Once your bootloader is unlocked it literally takes 5 minutes to root..
Unlock bootloader
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot boot twrp.img
install magisk zip
Reboot , you're rooted..
I don't understand why people suggest any other file explorer besides "x-plore". By far the best file explorer out there, 100% crap free. You can install any APK from any location using x-plore.. Most of the time I leave the APK on my network , that network drive is mapped in the shield settings, I simply browse to it with x-plore , and install any APK. If it doesn't make a shortcut in the android tv menu , then simply use "sideload launcher" by chainfire to launch whichever app doesn'T show up on the main menu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont understand y ppl think their preferred app is the same or should be everyones preference.. never really used xplore so cant comment on it but this is bcuz i use fx file explorer.. it has been good to me for years and still counting.. you can access network and more if u get an fx license which is cheap.. u can set up windows, ftp, ssh, webdav over network... set up cloud storage... bluetooth... web access.... fx connect and other means using it.. root installer.. text editor... binary viewer... deals with archives... themes... multiple root settings and other settings... diagnostic tools... has builtin busybox or u can use any other busybox you have installed and more
agreed though, roots easy if you dont have troubles.. not sure what ur runnin but nstv pro 2019 unless its been updated since i last checked cannot simply install magisk.. u need modified magisk.zip which is an older version then need to do some trickery in twrp to get it to flash right then still might need some trickery to get it to boot.. i have to use adb root to change bootstate to orange before itll load and if u dont got adb authorized yet then i use twrp to set a script tochange bootstate on boot.. tyen if u still have problems might need towipe and/or mess with vbmetaand/or dtb partitions.. and im an experienced person when it comes to root, exploits, twrp utilization and fastboot (not claiming to b pro or anything crazy, just know how to use them fairly well and general idea of how things work) so i can imagine some ppl that maybe arent as experienced or new to this particular device would have a difficult time indeed.
DBCAB said:
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many thanks.
---------- Post added at 02:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:01 PM ----------
DBCAB said:
I have the 2015 pro model NVIDIA shield, but do have access to a 2017 model at my brother in laws, anyway extracting apks or getting them from places like apk mirror then using a usb to install will work you can even install them over your network from your pc or laptop using a file explorer program that supports it. I have never tried installing the full play store on my shield as it comes with one, however I have tried to install things using a pc browser and the google play site to the shield and had some luck installing a few apps that are not available on the shields version of play store. So basically doesn't matter where u get the apk you can usually install it to the shield some apps wont display properly which is why I suggested an orientation type program to correctly display and use also be aware some apps might need a mouse or keyboard to function properly when you do this depending on what you install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!
have you tried the Aurora store? i find stuff there ibcant find in tv play store
elliwigy said:
have you tried the Aurora store? i find stuff there ibcant find in tv play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
elliwigy suggested the best way to have full playstore, Aurora is a frontend for the real playstore, you are not downloading from an unknown source and also allow to install and validate the apps that you have purchased, also it's possible to spoof your shield as other devices making possible to install apps that in other ways aren't available for your device
Related
As the title says I have an xperia play but the wifi isnt working. Ive done a factory reset, used pc companion to reinstall the software and even installed a custom kernel and rom but it wont even turn on the wifi thus I cant search for a router.
Is there a way I can at least download the apps i want such as
fpse
screen filter
various games
themes
ect
even with the broken wifi on my phone.
Ive had a search online and Im either wording my search wrong or its not possible to do what I want.
Also any advice a possible fix for the wifi would be great but Im assuming that its the hardware thats broke.
With usb cable, you may download app and install with adb or any pc companion software
You don't have warranty anymore?
Well, you can download the apk of the app and then copy it to your phone. Then just install it, shouldn't be too difficult.
Only problem could be, if you don't have any file explorer on your phone
Google the app you want , download it in your desktop and transfer to your phone. Install it via file manager
Sideloading, How I do it.
I haven't seen anyone mention this yet.
You need to first go into your phone settings and enable Unknown Sources found in the Security tab. Unknown sources will enable you to install apps without the Play Store.
Then connect your phone to your PC with your USB cable and select either Storage Mode or USB Mount, depending on your phone it will be labeled differently.
Your phone's folders will appear on your computer, simply drag the .apk file into your phone to transfer. Once the transfer is complete, remove the USB cable or unmount the phone.
Finally, use any file browser on your phone to find the .apk you transferred and click it. Your launcher should automatically ask you if you want to install the .apk
Note: App files are taged as .apk so any app you download should be something like Facebook.apk. I personally just do a general search for whatever I want and then include "apk" in the search field. You will find 100+ websites where you can download various apps, but the trick is, you usually have to do your research on the Play Store first to find out what the latest version number of the app is because there are mostly outdated versions floating around the internet.
I guess the best part about side loading is that the Google Play Store can't filter what you install. So apps that were previously not compatible could possibly run on your device no problem. Like Netflix used to be incompatible officially with my phone but I sideloaded it and it worked fine. Netflix finally released official support but the fact is I got it before everyone else.
as they said, you should have a pc and it have the apk file to download it to phone
Hello,
There have been a log of helpful posts on the forum about what you can do with the Amazon Fire TV, but they are all in separate threads. I create this thread to put all of those guides together, along with whatever tips/tricks you can do on the Fire TV. I will try to credit where I found all the information. If the mods can make this a sticky thread, it will be awesome. I will try to update it when I find new information.
1/ BASIC
First step is to allow ADB over internet. Go to Setting ---> System ---> Developter Options ---> ADB Debugging ON
Here are 2 commands that you will need for sideload all apps in FireTV
adb connect xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
(xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx is your IP address. Go to Setting ---> System ---> About ---> Network to find it.
adb install name_of_your_apk
Remember when you use adb, try to be in the same folder where the apk is located, so you don't have to type in it path. Also, make sure there is no space in the name of the apk or the install command won't work. Please note that you can also sideload apps into Fire TV if you have an Android device (tablet, phone, whatever..) Install Terminal Emulator, type cd sdcard/Download to go the Download folder where all your downloads usually located.
Also, in this guide, there is a few part that I mention reboot the device. Either follow the reboot step, or manually press both the select and the play/pause button and your Fire TV will reboot.
2/ ROOT
taken from this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2783805)
Go to: http://towelroot.com/ and click the red button to download the APK:
Download the Chainfire SU APK from the Playstore: http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=eu.chainfire.supersu
Sideload both APKs.
Run Towelroot, hit "Make it Rain" and then your FTV will reboot.
After reboot, open SuperSU, install SU. Go to Setting and set default access to "Grant" if you don't want the prompt to appear asking for superuser for each app.
Download Busybox APK: http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=stericson.busybox
Launch it and install busybox.
3/ DISABLE FIRE TV UPDATER
Type adb shell in your terminal
Type su to ask for root (a pop up will appear on your Fire TV asking for superuser if you did not set "Grant" as default)
Type pm disable com.amazon.dcp
4/ CONTROL AMAZON FIRE TV WITHOUT USING MOUSE/KEYBOARD
For certain apps to work in Fire TV, you might need a mouse/keyboard since the app is design for touch base environment. To work around this, what you can do is install a VNC server and control the Fire TV using VNC Viewer.
The VNC Server app that I used is called VMLite VNC Server. Here is its link in the Playstore:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vmlite.vncserver&hl=en
I will not post the apk to this link since it is a paid app and the developer has specifically asked me not to. So to get the apk, there are 2 ways.
A) Go to the developer website and buy the apk: http://www.vmlite.com/purchase.html
B) Install the apk on your Android device from the Play store. Here is how you can download the apk from the Play Store using Chrome extension (this will only work if you have bought the apk from the Play store)
Go to http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/ in Chrome and scroll down.
Install the APK Downloader v2.1.3 extension.
Once install, go to the extension setting, fill out all that information ( username, password, and Google ID)
Go to this link https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vmlite.vncserver&hl=en
Click Install, choose your Android device, and a symbol will appear in the URL bar allowing you to download the apk
Once you have the apk, sideload it. Open the app, press the Menu button on your remote, a bottom bar will appear.
Select Setting ---> VNC password to set your VNC Server password
Select Setting ---> VNC port to set your VNC Server port
Select Setting ---> Autostart Server at boot
Then press the big Green Start Server button
EDIT: there are several VNC server available for Android. Some are paid, some are free. As long as it is working with a password, you should use it. You don't have to use VMLite VNC Server. I use it because I have it for a long time and it works great on all my Neuxs 7, 10, and 5.
Once done, you can use a VNC viewer to control your Fire TV.
For Android device, use this app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.realvnc.viewer.android&hl=en
For iOS device use this app https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/vnc-viewer/id352019548?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo=4
For Desktop, go to this link and download the one for your OS https://www.realvnc.com/download/vnc/latest/
5/ INSTALL PLAY STORE
taken from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2787813
Download and install the "Xposed Framework" http://dl-count.xposed.info/modules/de.robv.android.xposed.installer_v32_de4f0d.apk
Download and install the "HDXPosed.apk" file. http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2538185&d=1390657381
Launch the "Xposed" application. Go to Framework and click Install. Don't reboot yet.
Go to modules and enable HDXPosed ( you need a mouse for this part or VNC server)
Go back to Framwork and click Reboot
Go download these apks
https://mega.co.nz/#F!8Q10yAiZ!4GVoGr7FJtXauVI3kvPSMQ
Mirror
https://onedrive.live.com/redir?res...4&authkey=!AIVXLFXAOWDeM0Q&ithint=folder,.apk
Sideload/Install all those apps (the apks for some of the apps contain space. Change the name or put the name in quotation mark to make it work)
Reboot. Play Store will appear in your application list.
WARNING: there is a bug in this step. For some people, first installation and reboot won't work. Don't panic. Sideload/Reinstall the app a second time will make it work, but use this command below
adb install -r name_of_your_apk
Remember to reboot your device.
6/ ENABLE INSTALLATION OF UNKNOWN SOURCES
taken from this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784173
Install SQLite Editor https://code.google.com/p/xdroidx/downloads/detail?name=SQLite Editor-9.apk
Launch SQLite Editor, granting it SU access
Select "Settings Storage"
Select "settings.db"
Select the "global" table
Highlight the record "install_non_market_apps"
Hit the Menu button and select "Edit Record"
Change the Value to "1" and save the record (you will need a mouse/keyboard for this step)
Reboot
This is the only part in the guide that I have not tried yet. Some people say that by changing the internal database, you might mess up your Android device. I don't know this is true or not, but since I have not done it on any Android devices ever yet. I am still waiting for people result on this. The advantage of allowing installation of unknown sources is you can use ES File Explorer to install apps that are not in the Google Play store. No need to use adb to sideload apps and you don't have to open adb all the time, less vulnerability on your Fire TV.
7/ ACCESS YOUR AMAZON FIRE TV INTERNAL FILE STRUCTURE REMOTELY
If you choose to enable installation of unknown sources (the step above this), then you can use this step to install all apk from now on, without using adb ever again. There are two ways of doing this:
A) Install ES File Explorer from the Play Store or sideload it http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=com.estrongs.android.pop
Launch it. On the left side bar, select Remote Manager, select Turn On. Input the address on your PC and you can transfer any files from your PC to your Fire TV using WIFI. If you enable root in ES File Explorer, you can also copy/paste files from root but be careful about that.
B) Set up a SSH server.
Sideload SSH Daemon http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=web.oss.sshsftpDaemon
Configure password, and enable autostart on boot (this is the most frustrated part of the guide since the screen will be sideway. It might help if you have VNC server install since you can control it using VNC viewer)
SSH with username root and password abc123 (configurable in SSH Daemon)
You can also access the SSH server using ES File Explorer on your Android device. Select Network ---> FTP ---> New ----> choose SFTP ---> Username/Password
8/ ALTERNATIVE LAUNCHER FOR FIRE TV
Here is the link: https://github.com/Redth/FiredTVLauncher
Once install, when your press Home button, this launcher will launch instead of the default one.
Pros: since Amazon Fire TV won't show any apps that is not install from Amazon store. Using this launcher will display all your apps in normal Android device style. You can also rearrange them or show/hide certain apps.
Cons: lose the Amazon Fire TV default launcher. However, you can still access the default launcher, there is an icon to go back to the default launcher.
9/ INSTALL XBMC AND COPY OVER YOUR USERDATA FOLDER
Pretty self-explanatory, with XBMC, Amazon Fire TV turns into a "media box" beast that we all want.
Install from here (select ARM download link please) http://xbmc.org/download/
Launch XBMC. Exit. Then copy over all your userdata/addons folder.
If you have XBMC install on any other platforms and want to copy all of your settings/addons over to Fire TV, please remember that the best skin for Fire TV is Confluence. If you are using a touch-based skin, please switch it to Confluence or similar non-touch based skin.
This link tells where the default userdata folder is located:
http://wiki.xbmc.org/?title=Userdata
This is where you will place your userdata folder on your Fire TV
/sdcard/Android/data/org.xbmc.xbmc/files/.xbmc/
Please remember that this method works for all platform, if you are using XBMC on Windows, iOS, etc... you can just copy everything over and it will work.
Example:
I can copy over my userdata and addons folder from my Nexus 10. It is located at
/sdcard/Android/data/org.xbmc.xbmc/files/.xbmc/addons/
/sdcard/Android/data/org.xbmc.xbmc/files/.xbmc/userdata/
Then I paste them to Fire TV here and replace the original folder
/sdcard/Android/data/org.xbmc.xbmc/files/.xbmc/
Please remember to never copy over the temp folder. It might mess up your XBMC on Fire TV. If you do that, just delete it and launch XBMC.
10/ PLAY ANY VIDEO ON THE INTERNET USING CLOUDCAST ON ANOTHER ANDROID DEVICE
Install Cloudcast (it won't appear in Google Play store due to device restriction)
Download apkhere
http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=com.appestry.cloudcast
Once install, you need to buy the in-app purchase (price is only $1.60, support the developer) to watch video longer than 10 minutes. The in-app purchase is authenticated through Google Play Store so only need to buy it once.
Once you have buy the in app purchase. Go to your other Android device, go to Play store and install the Cloudcast app in your other Android device
With both Fire TV and your Android device has Cloudcast, go to Devices --> Pair a new devices to link them up. From now on, any video you watch on your Android devices can be cast to the Fire TV. This app is based on Chromecast and it works great for me.
Here is a video of the developer explaining how his app work
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ftqC1NvTPw
11/ OTHER LINKS AND THREADS
Spark : Desktop mirroring and web casting apps
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2766019
The Spark app is a hit/miss for me. It has a Chrome extension that will cast your Chrome tab to the Fire TV screen. Also, it has a Window/Mac program that supposedly mirror your entire desktop screen to the Fire TV. From my experience, the Chrome extension works for me in some way. The Chrome tab will appear in the Fire TV but it is not true mirroring. Certain videos won't load and the lag timing is around 3-5 seconds. The Window desktop program did not work for me. It will give me a black screen. If I play a video, sound will come out of the TV but no picture/image showing up. You can try it and let me know.
Airplay fully working and Mirroring too.. AndroidApple Tv allinOne
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2764848
Airplay to Fire TV. Did not try it since I don't have an iOS devices.
Working Sideloaded APK List - Updated Daily
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2756608
Self explanatory. Very good list of what app works on Fire TV and what not.
Links for Viki, Cruncyroll and Drama Fever for Google TV
http://www.4shared.com/zip/RlFwc6Ixce/gtv_apks.html
Dropbox Mirror:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/acilpqm3qbtub8v/gtv_apks.zip
The Google TV version of Viki, Crunchyroll and Drama Fever. Only Viki and Drama Fever works for me. Crunchyroll gives you a sideway screen. Please install the Google Play version below:
http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=com.crunchyroll.crunchyroid
Links for Dolphin Browser and Flash
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2267390
The thread above contains link to Dolphin browser which support Flash. You can also install Dolphin Jetpack (link below, which supposedly makes your Dolphin browser experience even faster. Warning: need mouse to navigate browser, remote control alone is not enough.
http://apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader/?id=com.dolphin.browser.engine
Good stuff. Thanks.
There is a method in another topic that makes it easier to sideload apps while no longer needing a PC after installing certain apps.
Could you change the ADB part to tell people to sideload "terminal emulator" and a file explorer for easily sideloading any apk without a PC/straight from FTV storage then deleting the apk file,and a recommended web browser for downloading apk files to sideload via terminal emulator?
I got Opera as my first browser to sideload when it was a 21.x version and it ran decently,but the recent 22.x updates are unstable with flickering rendering.
If you pick Opera,I suggest you try and find a 21.x version from somewhere like Aptoide.
Just want to help make it easier when you can install apps without needing a PC after the first few sideloaded apps.
You have apps from 1Mobile,Appchina,Wandoujia,SlideME,Aptoide
(after sideloading Aptoide Market app from m.aptoide page),Voga360,and the free apps from Play Store via Evozi and APK Leecher.
All of these can be accessible from a sideloaded browser on your Fire TV for sideloading with the Terminal Emulator after finding out the name and directory (usually sdcard/Download/appname.apk) using a file explorer like ES File Explorer.
Yea, I am going to write more sideloading browsers and other apps. There are several methods for installing apk on the Fire TV once it is rooted. Using browser to download, then use ES File Explorer to install, or terminal emulator to install is fine also.
For the browser part, so far, I had installed a modified version of Dolphin browser that support Flash. It works great but you need a mouse to move around. I will add more stuff or link to other threads that contain useful info later on.
retroben said:
There is a method in another topic that makes it easier to sideload apps while no longer needing a PC after installing certain apps.
Could you change the ADB part to tell people to sideload "terminal emulator" and a file explorer for easily sideloading any apk without a PC/straight from FTV storage then deleting the apk file,and a recommended web browser for downloading apk files to sideload via terminal emulator?
I got Opera as my first browser to sideload when it was a 21.x version and it ran decently,but the recent 22.x updates are unstable with flickering rendering.
If you pick Opera,I suggest you try and find a 21.x version from somewhere like Aptoide.
Just want to help make it easier when you can install apps without needing a PC after the first few sideloaded apps.
You have apps from 1Mobile,Appchina,Wandoujia,SlideME,Aptoide
(after sideloading Aptoide Market app from m.aptoide page),Voga360,and the free apps from Play Store via Evozi and APK Leecher.
All of these can be accessible from a sideloaded browser on your Fire TV for sideloading with the Terminal Emulator after finding out the name and directory (usually sdcard/Download/appname.apk) using a file explorer like ES File Explorer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cloudcast
i see cloudcast here
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appestry.cloudcast&hl=en
Has any one found a good alternative to VMLite VNC Server? I would like a free one or maybe one that does give you some trial period, I don't mind paying for it if it work but I'm not sure that I will work for what I'm trying to do.
I got terminal emulator working. All you need to do is change settings so that it uses word keyboard. Then, when you wanna type something, hit the 3 bars key. Then click 'toggle soft keyboard'.
cloning firestick
I am trying to take my "jailbroken" Firestick and copy it's info to a new firestick. So I will have two that have kodi and I can use one downstairs, I thought I could just back it up on perhaps my desktop and than restore on the new stick. Is this going to work or will I just crash the new one. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I am good with my comp, but can't write code or anything like that. Thanks!
kimoleary3 said:
I am trying to take my "jailbroken" Firestick and copy it's info to a new firestick. So I will have two that have kodi and I can use one downstairs, I thought I could just back it up on perhaps my desktop and than restore on the new stick. Is this going to work or will I just crash the new one. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I am good with my comp, but can't write code or anything like that. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It won't work mate, the only way to root is to solder mod it for root, think there is a guide on xda or aftv news or Google it? A soft mod root is not possible anymore
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
Hello,
I want to remotely access an amazon fireTV from my PC. I try with TeamviewerQS but, 1) I cannot take control of the desktop of the FireTV to make changes. 2) I always need permission from the remote which is very complicated. Is there a way to use a different program to do this easier? Maybe I can pre-install the correct programs into all of the FireTV's before I ship them out? Please help. JR
I'm0.
What works
Leanback Launcher
Leanback App Buttons (you may still want Sideload Launcher for some things)
Leanback Recommendations
HDMI-CEC (insofar as my TV supports it YMMV)
Shield Controller, including right thumbstick as mouse
Ten Foot experiences for applications that check for it
What doesn't work
Cast Receiver
Probably other things, this is a work in progress
What's needed
ADB access - If you don't have the Android SDK you can just use Minimal ADB and Fastboot
Stock 5.0 OTA (Android 7.0 Nougat) - I don't know how necessary this is but it's what I used.
Root
TWRP or some means of flashing a zip
Open GApps arm tvstock
Step 1 - Debloat
First we need to get rid of a number of things that we won't need, or will get in the way. Use debloat.zip for this. I actually like to run this initially, as well as after Gapps are installed. The script file inside is copied in the spoiler below.
Code:
mount("ext4", "EMMC", "/dev/block/platform/sdhci-tegra.3/by-name/APP", "/system");
ui_print("System app removals");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/BackupRestoreConfirmation");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/BlockedNumberProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/ConfigUpdater");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/CalendarProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Contacts");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/ContactsProvider");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/DocumentsUI");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GmsCore");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleBackupTransport");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleFeedback");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleLoginService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleOneTimeInitializer");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GooglePartnerSetup");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/GoogleServicesFramework");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/MmsService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Phonesky");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/SetupWizard");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/TegraOTA");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/TeleService");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Telecom");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Velvet");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvLauncher");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvCustomize");
#delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/NvRpxService"); needed for controller pairing
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/nvlasso");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/shield_platform_analyzer");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/shieldcustomize");
delete_recursive("/system/priv-app/Katniss");
delete_recursive("/system/app/CalendarGoogle");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Chrome");
delete_recursive("/system/app/CloudPrint");
delete_recursive("/system/app/DeskClockGoogle");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Drive");
delete_recursive("/system/app/ExactCalculator");
delete_recursive("/system/app/FaceLock");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Gmail2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GoogleContactsSyncAdapter");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GooglePrintRecommendationService");
delete_recursive("/system/app/GoogleTTS");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Hangouts");
delete_recursive("/system/app/JusWrite");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Maps");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Music2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/PlayGames");
delete_recursive("/system/app/PrintSpooler");
delete_recursive("/system/app/SoundRecorder");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Tn8Tdc");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Videos");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Write");
delete_recursive("/system/app/idsmonitor");
delete_recursive("/system/app/stylusmobile-oem");
delete_recursive("/system/app/talkback");
delete_recursive("/system/app/trine2");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Twitch");
delete_recursive("/system/app/YouTube");
delete_recursive("/system/app/Music2Pano");
delete_recursive("/system/app/VideosPano");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/CalibNotifier");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/ConsoleSplash");
#delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/ConsoleUI");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvAndroidOSC");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvBenchmarkBlocker");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvCPLUpdater");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvCamera");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvEsrd");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvGamecast");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/NvRegistration");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/Stats");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/TegraZone");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/Welcome");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvbatterymonitorservice");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvidiafeedback");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/nvpowerstats");
delete_recursive("/system/vendor/app/watercolor");
ui_print("Finish");
Step 2 - TV Permissions
Some apps with ten foot experiences are packaged and distributed separately from their mobile/tablet counterparts (like Twitch and ESPN). Others, package all experiences together and ask for permissions at runtime (like PBS Video and PBS Kids). The attached tv_permissions.zip file adds these, as well as android.software.picture_in_picture in order to prevent an exception when the home button is double tapped.
Step 3 - Settings activity is now broken
This is because our conflicted device is looking for the ribbon at the top of the settings activity, but it doesn't exist in the tv layout. fixes.zip patches Settings.apk to include the ribbon in the tv layout.
If you have issues with this, try running debloat and tv_permissions, boot the device, then go back to recovery and flash fixes.zip.
Step 4 - Open GApps tvstock
Big thanks to the Open GApps guys for this one. I cheated a bit here and instead of adding the packages one-by-one to be removed in the debloat script, I manually removed a number of tars from the zip file. I'll fix this, I promise but in the meantime open up the zip file and remove the following:
GApps/castreceiver-arm.tar.lz
GApps/gamepadpairing-arm.tar.lz
GApps/livechannels-arm.tar.lz
GApps/talkback-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvmovies-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvmusic-arm.tar.lz
GApps/tvplaygames-arm.tar.lz
Core/bugreport-all.tar.lz
Core/googlebackuptransport-all.tar.lz
Core/googlecontactssync-all.tar.lz
Core/gsfcore-all.tar.lz
Core/notouch-all.tar.lz
Core/setupwraith-all.tar.lz
...or don't if you want to experiment with Google Play Services, but that's not my cup of tea on a TV device. Early builds saw hangouts messages popping up while my wife and I were watching tv (ugh). By the way anything you do with any of this knowledge your sole responsibility.
Other Minutiae
Use the SPMC fork if you use Kodi. You will get recommendations/now playing, among other things.
Some apps may look for Play Services at runtime (I had this with Twitch, for example). If you don't want GPS/GSF I can verify that microG works for this. I used Lanchon's Haystack for signature spoofing. This required Linux and the Android SDK, but there are other ways to accomplish signature spoofing, I just didn't try them.
You'll need some means of downloading app packages without Play Store on your device. I used Raccoon and DummyDroid with the build.prop from Shield Android TV and this user agent string:
Code:
'Android-Finsky/6.5.08.D-all (versionCode=80650800,sdk=23,device=foster,hardware=foster_e,product=foster,build=NRD90M:user)'
Originally, I wanted to do this as a custom AOSP or Lineage-based rom. Some of the issues I ran into were beyond my reckoning and I decided to cut bait and use stock. Lineage does work though, you'll just be sacrificing HDMI-CEC and Granular HDMI audio volume (Steel01 got HDMI audio working though, so big props there).
One thing that was bugging me was that the Shield Controller won't wake the tablet when the tablet is on batter power, even if you have it set to leave wifi on when sleeping. The following setting will fix this:
Code:
adb shell settings put system com.nvidia.blakepairing.agoAlwaysOn 1
Edit 3/6
Guide skeleton, can't attach zips, screens, or post links
Setting to wake device on battery power
Edit 3/9
Screens and flashable zips added
tenFootPedal said:
Title seems sudden, but actually it's been a bit of a task. If anyone's interested I'll put some details and flashables up in here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Put em up, I was just thinking about converting mine with my Chromecast for mobdro, TV portal, and terrarium app. I already have a roku box and a Chromecast, but I'm curious how you converted yours. Thanks!
tenFootPedal said:
Title seems sudden, but actually it's been a bit of a task. If anyone's interested I'll put some details and flashables up in here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a GOOD IDEA to add the method rather than just a passing comment...
Thanks
set my spare shield up with kodi and its fine, i even still game on it occasionally. it's always hooked up so, why not?
LenAsh said:
It's a GOOD IDEA to add the method rather than just a passing comment...
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I'm planning on sharing but I wanted to gauge interest. Also I've never posted here and either I don't have permissions or I'm having PEBKAC issues with posting attachments.
Edit 3/6
Guide skeleton, can't attach zips, screens, or post links
Setting to wake device on battery power
Edit 3/9
Screens and flashable zips added
I'll be trying this with 5.1 OTA next
i have gotton the sheild game hub from the stock nvidia sheild tv firmware to install and work with this mod. i also use the ps4 controller via bluetooth for my remote in console mode. i cant figure out how to install the Google play store on this mod. can someone help me get it to install and work.
i have gotton the sheild game hub from the stock nvidia sheild tv firmware to install and work with this mod. i also use the ps4 controller via bluetooth for my remote in console mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nice. Thanks for the feedback.
I haven't been down the play store road, but I would start by installing the tvstock gapps package without removing gsfcore (maybe others?) and don't run the debloat zip after you do so.
tenFootPedal said:
nice. Thanks for the feedback.
I haven't been down the play store road, but I would start by installing the tvstock gapps package without removing gsfcore (maybe others?) and don't run the debloat zip after you do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the tv gapps dont even have google play within the zip so we have too figure out how to install the android tv google play store on this mod we will be all set to go. i have all the system files from the stock nvidia shield tv on my pc trying to swap files to see what i can mimic. but the shield games for the nvidia shield tv works perfectly on this mod.im also trying to see if i can install the stock shield tv firmware on the shield k1. i can get the boot,recovery,system img's to flash successfully but it taking forever to boot. so it seems it dont work but i will keep trying.
So u can install stock Android shield TV games on this mod aye
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk
also this mod works with the 5.1.1 OTA and the 6.0.1 OTA. and the lastest firmware but its a little buggy for me. aslo is there any way to make a uninstaller.zip for this mod. im also still having a hard time to get google play store installed
It would be so great if someone could pack this all up into a flashable ROM. That's something out of my abilities, could someone pretty please make it happen?
phuzznut said:
It would be so great if someone could pack this all up into a flashable ROM. That's something out of my abilities, could someone pretty please make it happen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this were an aosp-based build, I would do it. But since its stock, I didn't feel comfortable doing it. There are some things I should probably do to take some of the steps out and make it easier though.
@brandonlee96, since this deletes a number of stock apks, I'd need to pack them up to put them back to make an uninstaller, which I don't want to do for the same reasons as above. You can do what I do and just make a twrp backup of stock to go back to.
@brandonlee96 Here's your play store problem. TubeSky is missing when tvstock runs on a tablet device. So you need to change this line in your build.prop
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tablet
to this
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tv
before flashing tvstock.
After that, make sure you delete SetupWraith, because it will perpetually crash and restart on boot. I haven't tested it any further than that.
tenFootPedal said:
@brandonlee96 Here's your play store problem. TubeSky is missing when tvstock runs on a tablet device. So you need to change this line in your build.prop
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tablet
to this
Code:
ro.build.characteristics=tv
before flashing tvstock.
After that, make sure you delete SetupWraith, because it will perpetually crash and restart on boot. I haven't tested it any further than that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im doing that right now! i will let you know the results.
Apparently play store will auto update itself to the intended device's version. Getting the leanback (TubeSky) version to stay likely involves spoofing your device as an android tv to the play store (via build.prop and/or other means). I don't think I want to devote any more time to play store for now, when apks can be pulled from another device or via Raccoon.
tenFootPedal said:
Apparently play store will auto update itself to the intended device's version. Getting the leanback (TubeSky) version to stay likely involves spoofing your device as an android tv to the play store (via build.prop and/or other means). I don't think I want to devote any more time to play store for now, when apks can be pulled from another device or via Raccoon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have the google play working thank you. i just wondering is there anyway we can beef up this mod? btw the recommendations does work it just didn't load up at this time!
brandonlee96 said:
i have the google play working thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you make it stop auto-updating/replacing the vending package?
brandonlee96 said:
is there anyway we can beef up this mod?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What did you have in mind?
Hi, great thread! Will defenitly be trying this out in the next couple days... but i have a few questions. .
Does GFN work?
Does the system UI mimic ATV? Like the settings menu etc..?
Can we tell the battery level when unplugged?
Also, regarding build.prop edits to mimic the ShieldTV, i haven't changed build.prop to mimic anything in like 4 years haha! so I'm a little rusty, can you kindly show me what lines need changing to successfully spoof the STV?
Also, may be worth adding the Playstore is now working to the OP and credit @brandonlee96 haha
Great work guys! This looks amazing.
Has anyone successfully installed and rooted the new nougat image just released? i want to give it a go but not without Kodi. its my main streamer.
It has only been a week or so. I think we'll have to give it some more time.
What good is root on the NP? Kodi can be installed and updated from the play store or stand alone APK
undivide said:
What good is root on the NP? Kodi can be installed and updated from the play store or stand alone APK
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Off the top of my head I can think of these pro's:
1. Using the phone as remote. DroidMote is a superior alternative.
2. Give Kodi access to power states.
3. Get rid of the default launcher - forever.
4. Force sideloaded apps to open in landscape mode.
5. Making backup images of the whole device (TWRP+Tasker) and individual apps (Titanium Backup) on regular basis. The best reason to root IMO.
6. Block ads system wide.
7. Block certain undesired services (such as automatic updates).
8. Use unsupported remotes designed for consoles.
9. Unlock the full potential of Tasker.
10. Install Xposed (especially for xprivacy).
11. Expandable storage - writing to external storage.
12. Wifi/LAN adb access.
Root is liberty to do whatever you want to do with your device. Should always be an option for customers.
I am a fan off root access, just never knew there was any real use for it on the NP. thanks for the list, I'll have to check some of those out, especially droidmote for my linux server
root 7.1.2
use nexus root toolkit to temp boot into custom recovery goto supersu.c.o.m to download latest version of supersu 2.79 in zip format through usb flash from the custom recovery on to 7.1.2 nexus player
use busybox from appstore ,sideload launcher from appstore to complete root
also use stickmount and download the 2 files in app to get fat32 and more file system usable
disable automatic updates to stop nexus player from rebooting
Anyone have review comments on it?
Fast/Stable/memory usage/
Can you just install Nova launcher and use it as a desktop?
I'm waiting to try this so I can get rid of the bugs in the current 6.0 rom I'm on.
britoso said:
Anyone have review comments on it?
Fast/Stable/memory usage/
Can you just install Nova launcher and use it as a desktop?
I'm waiting to try this so I can get rid of the bugs in the current 6.0 rom I'm on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know, unless anything has changed, in order to use Nova Launcher on the Nexus Player as if it was a tablet in landscape mode, you'll need to install one of the "full android" custom roms. The stock Android TV interface/launcher is pretty locked down in Nougat. Also, as far as I'm aware, the stock nougat Android TV leanback launcher can't be swapped out for a 3rd party launcher like you speak of, although it was possible in earlier android versions to run a different launcher other than the stock leanback... As to what I've used in the past on earlier ATV versions -- "HAL Launcher", a 3rd party Android TV leanback launcher on the Play Store, specifically comes to mind.
jsdecker10 said:
As far as I know, unless anything has changed, in order to use Nova Launcher on the Nexus Player as if it was a tablet in landscape mode, you'll need to install one of the "full android" custom roms. The stock Android TV interface/launcher is pretty locked down in Nougat. Also, as far as I'm aware, the stock nougat Android TV leanback launcher can't be swapped out for a 3rd party launcher like you speak of, although it was possible in earlier android versions to run a different launcher other than the stock leanback... As to what I've used in the past on earlier ATV versions -- "HAL Launcher", a 3rd party Android TV leanback launcher on the Play Store, specifically comes to mind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's too bad.
Any ROM developers out there planning to release a full android ROM based on this?
The closest I've found is 7.1.1 by zulu99 http://www.videomap.it/forum/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=1609 I will try that soon.
britoso said:
That's too bad.
Any ROM developers out there planning to release a full android ROM based on this?
The closest I've found is 7.1.1 by zulu99 http://www.videomap.it/forum/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=1609 I will try that soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using that rom since today. Is fast, light and has inbuilt gapps ( and Its only 300 mb the size).
The few things i dont like is that
1)i cant use "Android tv remote" app. (i guess i will have to try "droid mote".
2) having clásic play store is nice (to avoid sideloading apps) but, because you alredy have a play store, you cant have "play store tv". (and apps designed for tv like Spotify tv and youtube tv cant be installed from clásic play store).
I like to check New apps made for Android tv and i cant now. So i have to sideload the apps i want.
3) when you see "recents" you cant delete apps by swypping to bottom, instead you have to use a mouse or a remote with air mouse).
3.1) there are a few moments like before when you realise this rom cant be moved at all with nexus remote's few buttons. So the "Android tv" experience is half broken. (i will see if with droid mote can be "replaced")
BraianV said:
Im using that rom since today. Is fast, light and has inbuilt gapps ( and Its only 300 mb the size).
The few things i dont like is that
1)i cant use "Android tv remote" app. (i guess i will have to try "droid mote".
2) having clásic play store is nice (to avoid sideloading apps) but, because you alredy have a play store, you cant have "play store tv". (and apps designed for tv like Spotify tv and youtube tv cant be installed from clásic play store).
I like to check New apps made for Android tv and i cant now. So i have to sideload the apps i want.
3) when you see "recents" you cant delete apps by swypping to bottom, instead you have to use a mouse or a remote with air mouse).
3.1) there are a few moments like before when you realise this rom cant be moved at all with nexus remote's few buttons. So the "Android tv" experience is half broken. (i will see if with droid mote can be "replaced")
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The best part is that you can use a regular keyboard and mouse, #1 and #3 of your dislikes will be taken care of if you do the same. I'm using his previous lollirock 6.0 ROM with a logitech K400 KB/mouse and it works great.
Only downsides with the 6.0 ROM I've seen are:
1. low device RAM and slowish CPU causes apps to stop responding.
2. apps that use popup dialogs (titanium backup, ttorrent etc) turn the whole screen black unless you turn off hardware overlays every time you reboot.
3. some apps rotate the screen and you need other apps to restore the orientation to landscape.
britoso said:
The closest I've found is 7.1.1 by zulu99 http://www.videomap.it/forum/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=1609 I will try that soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This ROM works great, much better than 6.0.
Less ANRs and faster response. Only bug is app-specific where the screen rotates. No other issues so far.
Using Nova Launcher and ES file explorer.
Best part is that I installed it all on the TV with my K400 keyboard and TWRP
Steps:
1. Backup current ROM to ext media...Just in case. Also backup all your apps using a tool Ike Titanium backup to ext media.
2. Download latest TWRP, Google Fugu 7.1.2 ROM Zip, latest SuperSu, zulu 7.1.1 ROM to ext media. Extract the zulu ROM zip as the two IMG files need to be flashed individually
3.flash the latest TWRP. Reboot into the updated recovery using the device button. Skip this step if you already have a new recovery.
4. Install the Google ROM zip image first...Because zulu's instructions menton it.
5. Install the boot and system images from the custom ROM one by one.
6. Wipe data and cache. I unplugged my HDD for extra safety.
This will wipe internal media like /downloads
7. Root by flashing the superSU zip
8. Reboot. Done.
britoso said:
This ROM works great, much better than 6.0.
Less ANRs and faster response. Only bug is app-specific where the screen rotates. No other issues so far.
Using Nova Launcher and ES file explorer.
Best part is that I installed it all on the TV with my K400 keyboard and TWRP
Steps:
1. Backup current ROM to ext media...Just in case. Also backup all your apps using a tool Ike Titanium backup to ext media.
2. Download latest TWRP, Google Fugu 7.1.2 ROM Zip, latest SuperSu, zulu 7.1.1 ROM to ext media. Extract the zulu ROM zip as the two IMG files need to be flashed individually
3.flash the latest TWRP. Reboot into the updated recovery using the device button. Skip this step if you already have a new recovery.
4. Install the Google ROM zip image first...Because zulu's instructions menton it.
5. Install the boot and system images from the custom ROM one by one.
6. Wipe data and cache. I unplugged my HDD for extra safety.
This will wipe internal media like /downloads
7. Root by flashing the superSU zip
8. Reboot. Done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use "set orientatiton" to force apps in landscape Mode.
BraianV said:
I use "set orientatiton" to force apps in landscape Mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried that and others too. When a heavy app is running these services seem to get killed, as we only have 1GB RAM.
Nova has that option too.
Are you someone who just got their Fire TV rooted and don't know exactly what you can do with it being rooted? Or maybe you haven't rooted yet because you are unsure of what you can do with it rooted? Well hopefully i can shed some light on this with a little guide on things to do, along with some tips and tricks.
First let me get started by saying never forget to make a backup of your Fire TV via TWRP before making changes or tweaks. This is not to freak you out or disparage its just good practice ii have learned in rooting devices. I will cover TWRP later.
One of the best things to come along in the rooting world of android is Xposed installer. In short Xposed is a framework apk that allows users to modify/ customize their devices. This is not done by Xposed Installer per say but the modules that you download with in Xposed installer. So i will show how to install it, how to use and modules that will be beneficial use for Fire TV fyi mouse is need to navigate Xposed.
Xposed installation
1. We need to download the following BusyBox a program that most rooted apps are dependent on here Xposed Installer v3.1.5 here along with Xposed Framework x89 sdk22 arm64 here
2. Install BusyBox however you install side loaded apks. Open BusyBox and click the install button on bottom right. On SU prompt screen grant root access. As you should for root apps you install.
3. Install Xposed Installer, there is no need to open after install because without Xposed Framework installed it doesnt work.
4 Place the Xposed v89 zip onto Fire TV internal or external storage is your choice just remember where so you can point TWRP to it.
5 Reboot into TWRP recovery, choose install, point TWRP to the Xposed zip and on right side of options choose install zip. Let TWRP run its script when it says complete simply reboot and voila Xposed is installed. NOTE it is NORMAL for the first boot to take 10 min after Xposed is installed.
Xposed Tutorial and Modules
Open Xposed installer on be careful screen prompt click box to don't show again and ok. The 3 line icon on top left is menu button. Module option is where you can see and activate modules you install. Download option is where we search for and install modules. After you download a module Fire TV will prompt you to install. Note modules wont work until activated and a reboot.
Modules i find beneficial and know are SAFE are the followingBoot Manager- this allows for you to choose what apps start on boot.
RootCloak- this is designed to hide root app detection. Im assuming it still will hide root but could be wrong worth shot right
Xposed Edge- this is the FUN one that allows a fair share customs tweaks. My fav is remapping of remote buttons ie home button goes to alternative launcher, double tap home opens netflix. Which is great for 3rd party remotes that have a lot of buttons. NOTE There is a pro version as well Note- whenever you make changes in edge you may have to reboot for changes to effect.
DISCLAIMER be careful some modules may cause problems like bootloop and worse so research before you install modules to see if they are compatible
Other Apps
These are apps recommended or useful for rooted devices and for Fire TV useADBLink-allows you connect PC t to Fire TV via adb can install apks, push/pull files, run adb shell.
Easy Fire Tools- Android app that connects to Fire TV via adb can install apps from your android device onto Fire TV, transfer files and other features.
Root Explorer- these apps allow you to manage files but also a way to install side loaded apps, find one that is root friendly so you can access system folders if ever needed.
AdBlocker- we all know why we want one for all my rooted phones always been partial to adaway.
Alternative Home Launcher- who does like Fire TV launcher, really Karen of course you would!
TV App Repo and APK Editor- For those who do use alternative launcher i mention these because TV App Repo allows you to make bookmarks into apks. APK Editor to change the icon and name of TVApp Repo apks because the names and icons are generic.
TWRP
Finally the benefits and how to use TWRP. This allows users to make a backup images of device and ability to restore it when **** goes wrong. You can also do a factory reset.
Backup- after you choose backup from main screen choose select storage and choose storage then click swipe to backup. These can take a while to do seemed like 20 mins or so. Whatever storage you chose will be the default storage until you change it. Note- I have a backup image and its size is 4.5gb so id recommend you need some sort of external storage for these. If there is not enough space backup can not be performed.
Restore- performed same way as backup.
Factory Reset- Just wanted to mention don't forget if you do this and have a backup image on Fire TV internal storage you will lose it.
Hope this helps out
@g422
Thanks for the write up!!!
To be honest, the benefits of rooting appear to be somewhat underwhelming, at least, for the Fire TV. Not a single killer feature/application ...
I do know that it is more convenient to have root than not, but appears to be in pretty subtle ways.
My main use is between SmartYouTubeTV, and Netflix. If I fumble through the Amazon launcher, I am there, and life is good!
Am I missing something?
bibikalka said:
Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.
ldeveraux said:
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???
bibikalka said:
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?
I took no offense to your comments bibikalka. I am inclined to agree that there is a limit of what to do with rooted fire tv especially compared to a phone or tablet. I started this thread to give back to xda who has kept my multiple devices over years rooted. Thread was also done in hopes of getting ideas to do and/or sharing of apps that can be helpful especially now that rooting is allowed for the general masses just not those who were able to jump on board early.
ldeveraux said:
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
#1 reason I root a fire TV box is so I can use large NTFS drives on the USB port.
Can someone point to me how to fix sd card write permissions. I tried xiinternalsd for xposed but when i open it goes to amazon home screen
g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant
Imho top reasons for it are Xposed Edge Pro, ad blocking via AdAway (if you use the browser) and finally, the updates issue. While unlikely, it's not impossible for Amazon to get crackin and stop the use of certain third-party apps (NIMH is a giveaway)
Edit: forgot one important one, "debloating" the OS, whether by blocking the startup or disabling packages you don't want/need to give more cpu and memory to apps you do
Without root access, it's Amazon's device; with root access, it's now your device.
g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
g422 said:
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For a while, updates could be blocked without root, but Amazon fixed that hole:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/disable-ota-fire-stick-t3667978
But! You want to block updates so you don't lose root, so it's a bit circular. If you don't have root, you don't care, and just update as per Amazon otas. Btw, I do have updates blocked on my fire sticks
Anyway, please keep the conversation going! We should develop a good set of must have features which are only available via root.
The main reason I root now is to debloat. Go as barebones as possible in order to improve performance. I kill all possible services that are absolutely unnecessary. I've removed Amazons GUI and use Appstarter. I just like a clean fast experience.
Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t
fullofhell said:
Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.
JUSTINMARMER said:
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.
fullofhell said:
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.
JUSTINMARMER said:
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.
fullofhell said:
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is 100% incorrect. I see now you have a reading comprehension disability. I can't imagine how hard that must be for you and I empathize.
Obviously root is needed for magisk modules. I suggested an app to help all those without root.
Bless your heart.