So I have done some searching here, and really haven't found the information I am looking for.
I used to run an old HTC Imagio, and unlocked it. Wife was pissed because it pretty much never worked right after that.
Now I am runnning the Thunderbolt, have been since its release. I have also gotten the OTA update to 2.3.4. and now I am thinking whether I should or should not root.
All I keep hearing is tethering is now free, and its faster. So what I am asking is more of a sales pitch. I would love for someone to tell me really the advantages to rooting, how easy it really is, what I must have in order to properly use a rooted phone, which ROMs offer what customization, etc.
I currently use GoLauncher, and its pretty smooth for me. I like customization, changing screens, changing how the launcher looks (icons, screen transitions, etc). I also like to switch launchers from time to time, and have a cracked one that I can only use if rooted.
So as someone that is on the fence of rooting, I would like a good discussion on the pros and cons of rooting, especially on what really needs to be done (superuser, etc), I hear I have to install custom radios for both CDMA and the other, really? Those are the things I need to know before going into this, because the wife doesn't need to call me and it doesn't work, or text me and I never get or can send texts.
So hope I am not asking for too much.
Thanks!
Rooting the ThunderBolt is really easy. I used revolutionary www.revolutionary.io be sure to read everything before trying that method.
As for functionality, pretty much all the ROMs for the thunderbolt are very stable and have little to no bugs.
There are many different types of ROMs to choose from. You have Sense 2.1, sense 3.0, sense 3.5, miui, and aosp. Just browse the forums and see which you might like better. Also be aware that sense ROMs need sense kernels, and aosp and miui need aosp kernels.
I will tell you that tethering seems to work best on sense ROMs.
Since you have the 2.3.4 ota, you shouldn't need to flash any radios.
Hope this helps with your choice.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
Guys, another question regarding the "revolutionary" root method. There is a video and it shows that data (apps) are not deleted. Does that include contacts and other twitter and FB data?
Also, it indicates that you have to uninstall HTC Sync. When I reinstall it, will I have to reestablish connection to Outlook, or will it think nothing has happened to my phone?
I want this root to be as seamless as possible, so sync with outlook must be without a flaw.
And finally, if I do go this route, can anyone describe the different ROMS that are out there, what they offer, in terms of preinstalled apps, custimization, relative speed and ease of use, and level of bugginess or lack of bugginess.
Thanks again guys.
jerrya said:
Guys, another question regarding the "revolutionary" root method. There is a video and it shows that data (apps) are not deleted. Does that include contacts and other twitter and FB data?
Also, it indicates that you have to uninstall HTC Sync. When I reinstall it, will I have to reestablish connection to Outlook, or will it think nothing has happened to my phone?
I want this root to be as seamless as possible, so sync with outlook must be without a flaw.
And finally, if I do go this route, can anyone describe the different ROMS that are out there, what they offer, in terms of preinstalled apps, custimization, relative speed and ease of use, and level of bugginess or lack of bugginess.
Thanks again guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Revolutionary does not root. All it does is give you S-OFF (disables rom signature checking by the bootloader. After using revolutionary you flash a small rom update (.zip file) that gives you the su binary and the superuser application (which controls the apps allowed to have root access, without it any app could call su without having to ask first). It might also install busybox. Note that installing a different ROM will delete all your data which is why after you root the first thing you should do is install Titanium Backup so you can back up everything (app data, system data such as contacts, installed apps, and even system apps). Btw, the Pro version of Titanium Backup is definitely worth the money. The ROM I use (Ginger_BreadRock_V2.6_(2.11.605.5)) is a deodexed and semi-debloated version of the latest official rom with visual voicemail and backup assistant manually added back in (I have the deodexed BA and VVM .apk files if you want them).
Other apps you might want after rooting: LBE Privacy Guard (lets you block apps from accessing private stuff like SMS Messages, contacts, IMEI/serial number, and GPS location), SetCPU or similar app (underclocking to 300MHz while the screen is off really helps battery life) and imoseyon's leankernel (be sure to get the gb sense one). With leankernel and that underclocking option set I can get three days of very light usage (a few bluetooth phone calls a day) before dropping below 15% power.
nl3142 said:
Revolutionary does not root. All it does is give you S-OFF (disables rom signature checking by the bootloader. After using revolutionary you flash a small rom update (.zip file) that gives you the su binary and the superuser application (which controls the apps allowed to have root access, without it any app could call su without having to ask first). It might also install busybox. Note that installing a different ROM will delete all your data which is why after you root the first thing you should do is install Titanium Backup so you can back up everything (app data, system data such as contacts, installed apps, and even system apps). Btw, the Pro version of Titanium Backup is definitely worth the money. The ROM I use (Ginger_BreadRock_V2.6_(2.11.605.5)) is a deodexed and semi-debloated version of the latest official rom with visual voicemail and backup assistant manually added back in (I have the deodexed BA and VVM .apk files if you want them).
Other apps you might want after rooting: LBE Privacy Guard (lets you block apps from accessing private stuff like SMS Messages, contacts, IMEI/serial number, and GPS location), SetCPU or similar app (underclocking to 300MHz while the screen is off really helps battery life) and imoseyon's leankernel (be sure to get the gb sense one). With leankernel and that underclocking option set I can get three days of very light usage (a few bluetooth phone calls a day) before dropping below 15% power.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know what that deodex thing is, but I have heard that alot. I understand the debloated thing, thats always nice. I may have to wait until next december when my contract is up and I can renew. Might use that as a way to get the wife to let me root instead of buying a new phone.
She is very careful with her outlook, her contacts and calendar are her babies so to speak, so screwing that up is a big no no for me.
Thanks again for the information.
Revolutionary itself doesn't root our phone, by if you look, it gives you everything you need to root.
Deodex means there are no odex files, and in simple terms, it means the Rom is themable.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt powered by KillaSense 3.5.0
If tethering is a major bonus and one of the main reasons you would like to root all you need to do is run revolutionary and install wifi tether. Running revo will not delete anything from your phone or change any of your currently set up applications. Your contacts will remain, twitter and facebook as well. It merely gains S-off and installs superuser so you can run rooted apps.
It is really hard to explain what the different roms have to offer since they all offer so much over stock. I hate verizons back up assistant so I just made sure all of my stuff is sync'd with google so once you sign back into your phone it will automatically reload calendar, contacts, wifi settings, etc...
Personally I enjoy sense based ROMs, others love AOSP. Currently I'm running Infectedrom.coms Eternity Sense 3.5 and absolutely love it.
Customization on most roms is the biggest reason I chose to root. Sick of my phone looking like everyone elses. It is nice to have another tbolt owner notice your sceen and get jealous
Just curious how would your phone mess up your wifes outlook contacts?
Stratejaket said:
If tethering is a major bonus and one of the main reasons you would like to root all you need to do is run revolutionary and install wifi tether. Running revo will not delete anything from your phone or change any of your currently set up applications. Your contacts will remain, twitter and facebook as well. It merely gains S-off and installs superuser so you can run rooted apps.
It is really hard to explain what the different roms have to offer since they all offer so much over stock. I hate verizons back up assistant so I just made sure all of my stuff is sync'd with google so once you sign back into your phone it will automatically reload calendar, contacts, wifi settings, etc...
Personally I enjoy sense based ROMs, others love AOSP. Currently I'm running Infectedrom.coms Eternity Sense 3.5 and absolutely love it.
Customization on most roms is the biggest reason I chose to root. Sick of my phone looking like everyone elses. It is nice to have another tbolt owner notice your sceen and get jealous
Just curious how would your phone mess up your wifes outlook contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a way of forcing your contacts and such to sync with google without having to re-enter your data from scratch?
Do this. Go to YouTube and search "how to root thunderbolt revolutionary". There's a few good follow-along-as-you-do-it-yourself vids with all the links to all you need to dl to use the revolutionary method.
If you go to gmail on a pc, go to contacts, and check them. If your phone contacts are there (they will be), they load when you log into your phone.
Sent from my Eternity Infected TB
everyone here has great advice tips, the only other GREAT thing i can add is that after you ROOT you can use Titanium backup. save all your data on your apps so you can transfer to another device and pick up where you left off.
This is one of the biggest reason to root your phone. you'll learn other GREAT tricks the app can do but i'll let you figure that on your own.
Stratejaket said:
If tethering is a major bonus and one of the main reasons you would like to root all you need to do is run revolutionary and install wifi tether. Running revo will not delete anything from your phone or change any of your currently set up applications. Your contacts will remain, twitter and facebook as well. It merely gains S-off and installs superuser so you can run rooted apps.
It is really hard to explain what the different roms have to offer since they all offer so much over stock. I hate verizons back up assistant so I just made sure all of my stuff is sync'd with google so once you sign back into your phone it will automatically reload calendar, contacts, wifi settings, etc...
Personally I enjoy sense based ROMs, others love AOSP. Currently I'm running Infectedrom.coms Eternity Sense 3.5 and absolutely love it.
Customization on most roms is the biggest reason I chose to root. Sick of my phone looking like everyone elses. It is nice to have another tbolt owner notice your sceen and get jealous
Just curious how would your phone mess up your wifes outlook contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because, last time I unlocked a phone, I had used microsoft backup. So when I hard reset my phone after unlocking, it replaced everything on my phone like it should, but then when I synced with the desktop, it doubled everything on the desktop, contacts and calendar items. We had to remove the doubled items one at a time to get everything back to normal. I know she will kill me if that happens again with rooting this.
paigow said:
everyone here has great advice tips, the only other GREAT thing i can add is that after you ROOT you can use Titanium backup. save all your data on your apps so you can transfer to another device and pick up where you left off.
This is one of the biggest reason to root your phone. you'll learn other GREAT tricks the app can do but i'll let you figure that on your own.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely TRUE! You have no idea how much hassle and time you will save by using this app!!!
jerrya said:
Because, last time I unlocked a phone, I had used microsoft backup. So when I hard reset my phone after unlocking, it replaced everything on my phone like it should, but then when I synced with the desktop, it doubled everything on the desktop, contacts and calendar items. We had to remove the doubled items one at a time to get everything back to normal. I know she will kill me if that happens again with rooting this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it did happen google can clean duplicated contacts for you from the people app.
Do it. Sorry had to spam a thread to get to 10. Need to post in ROM sections.
Related
Hey all,
I've recently rooted and I'm loving it. Quick background, I've recently rooted using the erisuser1 tutorial at android forums (VERY VERY helpful thank you!). I demo'd a few different ROMs, and decided I really wanted to keep some SenseUI feel, so ended up with xtrSense 4.2. It's worked really well for me, but I may be trying more in the near future (recommendations are welcome!). After the load, I've also utilized SetCPU for OC'ing, which was the main impetus for rooting. Has that ever made a difference! However, the question remains, what next? First, there are a couple things I know I want to do...
1. Remove stock apps: xtrSense did a nice job of removing a lot of bloatware from the OS, but some still remain, i.e. Amazon MP3 and teeter. It seems the xtrSense ROM included scripts for use in GScript to remove these, but I have yet to get them to work when following the steps outlined in the xtrSense post here at XDA. Has anyone had success using this method? If not, shouldn't the mere fact that I have root give me access to removing these programs via another method? What other apps/processes are used to remove stock apps once root is achieved? Any help would be awesome.
2. A2SD, C2SD & C2C: Does anyone use these processes? If so, how has it been achieved? Again, it seems the xtrSense 4.2 ROM included scripts for use in GScript to added this functionality, but I have never seen an increase in internal memory after using the scripts. I have undertaken the prereq that is partitioning my SD card, and have yet to see any success. Have others been successful using this or another process to achieve A2SD, C2SD or C2C? If so, how? Also, are there any cons to doing any of these? Any help in this regard would be MUCH appreciated.
3. What have YOU done post-root? I'm very very happy with what root, ROM and OC has done for the speed and battery life of my phone. However, I'm certain there are a million more tweaks that can be done to improve the speed and user experience of this cool little device, and I would be love to hear what others have done to further enjoy using the Droid Eris. What are your recommendations? Feel free to let me know!
Ok, any help in these areas would be really appreciated. Thanks for reading through this long post, and know that I am also happy to share any knowledge in regards to the steps I have already taken to get to this point.
Thank you!
Make the rom your own! mess with the theme, install bootanimations, make your own boot.
Change the splash screen (skateboard screen) don't be afraid to mess with the system just make sure you do nandroid backups. Try to figure how to add the features by yourself, struggle with it a little, that's always fun. Follow a few tutorials, like when I was starting there wasn't much documentation on how to enable a2sd by changing the boot.img so I had fun figuring that out.
Hope this gives you a few ideas ;p
Edit: if you going to be messing with phone I would suggest adding a linux partition to your computer if you are a windows person. Makes your life easier no need to worry about drivers etc
Sent from my Eris using XDA App
Agree, wholeheartedly! I've been rooted since July, and have learned a lot using this forum. It's great to be able to change the boot logo screen, boot animations, etc. You can also improve battery life, increase speed, etc. After root, it's like having a new phone, and you have a greater sense of control over your device each time you learn something new. Have fun!
ckfalls said:
1. Remove stock apps: xtrSense did a nice job of removing a lot of bloatware from the OS, but some still remain, i.e. Amazon MP3 and teeter. It seems the xtrSense ROM included scripts for use in GScript to remove these, but I have yet to get them to work when following the steps outlined in the xtrSense post here at XDA. Has anyone had success using this method? If not, shouldn't the mere fact that I have root give me access to removing these programs via another method? What other apps/processes are used to remove stock apps once root is achieved? Any help would be awesome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know what to tell you, as removing stock applications with zach.xtr's Gscript process has always worked flawlessly for me. You may want to upgrade to the new xtrSENSE4.6 Beta that is out (you can find it by browser the more recent posts at the end of the xtrSENSE thread--Zach posted a link).
All I can say is that, when using Gscripts, make sure that you have "Needs SU?" checked. Aside from that, you just need to load Zach's scripts into Gscripts. After you load the scripts, have you pressed them? Just because you've loaded them into Gscripts doesn't mean they've run. You actually need to press on them to run them.
ckfalls said:
2. A2SD, C2SD & C2C: Does anyone use these processes? If so, how has it been achieved? Again, it seems the xtrSense 4.2 ROM included scripts for use in GScript to added this functionality, but I have never seen an increase in internal memory after using the scripts. I have undertaken the prereq that is partitioning my SD card, and have yet to see any success. Have others been successful using this or another process to achieve A2SD, C2SD or C2C? If so, how? Also, are there any cons to doing any of these? Any help in this regard would be MUCH appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've used all of them at various points in time--I used to use A2SD and C2SD, but ever since C2C was developed I've had no need. In xtrSENSE4.2, I'm pretty sure C2C is enabled by default. So, you don't need to worry about it UNLESS you're running low on disk space. If you're running low, how many apps do you have installed (you should be able to store ~100 with C2C)?
ckfalls said:
3. What have YOU done post-root? I'm very very happy with what root, ROM and OC has done for the speed and battery life of my phone. However, I'm certain there are a million more tweaks that can be done to improve the speed and user experience of this cool little device, and I would be love to hear what others have done to further enjoy using the Droid Eris. What are your recommendations? Feel free to let me know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My recommendation would be NOT to use SetCPU. I've found that running both of Zach's Gscripts for Max and Min CPU Speed has worked better--you won't need to wait for SetCPU to load up, be granted Superuser Permission, and then adjust your clock settings on boot. Plus, you'll have one less process running at all times, increasing performance.
Additionally, you may want to take a look at the xtrSENSE4.6 Beta that I mentioned previously. New, in that version, is the first ever inclusion of Collins_ph's Battery Tweak. Previously, it could only be used with Froyo ROMs. Enabling and configuring the utility will increase battery life because it gradually turns down the speed on your processor proportionally as your battery drains.
In terms of making the ROM "your own," I'd take a look in the Theme's thread. I can't provide you a list of everything that will work on xtrSENSE, but I can confirm that both the Minimal Matte Grey and Touch of Legend MetaMorph Themes do work for xtrSENSE. Also, you may want to check out LauncherPro (Plus), if you haven't already (www.launcherpro.com)... I absolutely love LauncherPro Plus, but I'm not "actively" using it. I'm really waiting on Fede to develop acceptable Photo and Music widgets to replace HTC's Sense Widgets (if anyone has suggestions on existing replacements, please let me know...). Having said that, I run a secondary "experimental" ROM on weekend--I run xtrROM with LauncherPro Plus. If you do decide to use LauncherPro, then I'd really recommend taking a look at xtrROM verses xtrSENSE.
Also, if you're a Sense fan, you might want to check out the newest version of KaosLegendary, V18. This is a port of a Tiawanese leaked version of HTC's forecoming Wildfire Sense UI. This is an Alpha Build at the moment and there are a few nagging issues, but it's neat just to use for half a day on the weekend to see how Froyo Sense will eventually pan out.
Finally, take a look at some of the Froyo ROMs that are built around CyanogenMod 6.0 (e.g. CELB Froyo; KaosFroyo; Tazz Froyo; and I think ShadowROM). Maybe you'll find that you like CyanogenMod better than Sense and stick with that?
Good luck!
P.S. In the future, you're probably better off posting something like this in the Q&A section.
I highly reccommend downloading Titanium and running a batch back up of all your apps and data. When you flash a new rom you can download Titanium again and restore your apps and settings (saves a lot of time if you become a flashaholic). Also grab Root Explorer. It's an app that allows you to access your sd card and your rom system. Wana change your boot animation? Save the file to your sd, open Root Explorer, copy it from the sd to data/local and reboot. Same goes for stock apps. Locate them and delete. Another valuable app is a terminal emulator. Open it up, type SU to obtain superuser permission, then a2sd check. This will tell you if a2sd is functioning correctly. Type a2sd help for a list of commands to use if it's not working.
Always Nand back up and you can flash any rom you want, play with it, screw it up, who cares....nand restore and you're back to point A. I highly reccommend trying a few Froyo roms. You'll need to partition your sd back to all fat32 or it wont recognize it. Froyo is faster than 2.1 and has a stock (somewhat different) a2sd. KaosLegendary is the only current Froyo rom with sense but it's fun to play with. WARNING - many users have bricked their phones using Clockwork. Some people love it but I'm afraid of it.
If you haven't already, try ADW or Launcher Pro. Once you decide you hate one and love the other (this will happen), you wont even miss sense.
Also download Metamorph and Busybox. You'll need these to theme your rom of choice (unless you find a flashable theme).
Now, put your phone down, get back to work, and for God's sake tell your wife you love her. You haven't even talked to her in weeks!!
Sent from my nonsensikal froyo using XDA App
joshw0000 said:
I highly reccommend downloading Titanium and running a batch back up of all your apps and data. When you flash a new rom you can download Titanium again and restore your apps and settings (saves a lot of time if you become a flashaholic).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great post! +1 on Titantium Backup and Root Explorer--I use both.
Just a note: With Titanium Backup, I recommend scheduling it to backup both Apps + System Data and syncing it with Dropbox. This way, if something should happen, like your SD Card becomes corrupt and you can't Nand Restore, you'll be able to reflash your current ROM and Restore all Apps + System Data, since you're having a scheduled backup taken and stored in your Dropbox folder as well.
Having said that, when flashing a NEW ROM or UPGRADING, remember to Restore "Apps + Data" but NOT to do the "Restore Apps + System Data." This will ensure that if the developer of your ROM has changed any system files, they won't be messed up. Sure, it'll take you 10-15 minutes to get your ROM the way you want (e.g. Home Screens, Systems Sounds, Notifications, etc.) but it's worth it to know that everything will work properly. Since your applications and their set up have nothing to do with the ROM, you can rest easily knowing that at least they'll come back configured as you left them for the most part.
KarateExplosion6 said:
Great post! +1 on Titantium Backup and Root Explorer--I use both.
Just a note: With Titanium Backup, I recommend scheduling it to backup both Apps + System Data and syncing it with Dropbox. This way, if something should happen, like your SD Card becomes corrupt and you can't Nand Restore, you'll be able to reflash your current ROM and Restore all Apps + System Data, since you're having a scheduled backup taken and stored in your Dropbox folder as well.
Having said that, when flashing a NEW ROM or UPGRADING, remember to Restore "Apps + Data" but NOT to do the "Restore Apps + System Data." This will ensure that if the developer of your ROM has changed any system files, they won't be messed up. Sure, it'll take you 10-15 minutes to get your ROM the way you want (e.g. Home Screens, Systems Sounds, Notifications, etc.) but it's worth it to know that everything will work properly. Since your applications and their set up have nothing to do with the ROM, you can rest easily knowing that at least they'll come back configured as you left them for the most part.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perfectly explained, nice job sir. This should be in the rollup!! Too many people make the mistake of restoring sys data from a older rom to newer, have to watch that. Rollup
My article at http://jonsuh.com/2010/09/make-your-droid-eris-faster-smoother-and-increase-battery-life-how-to/ will give you a whole mess of ideas of what you can do post-root. Hope this article helps!
Remember, these are just my suggestions, they are not necessarily the law. Some may disagree with my suggestions, some may work well for you, other may not as well as one may think. They are just pointers to get you in the right direction
KarateExplosion6 said:
I don't know what to tell you, as removing stock applications with zach.xtr's Gscript process has always worked flawlessly for me. You may want to upgrade to the new xtrSENSE4.6 Beta that is out (you can find it by browser the more recent posts at the end of the xtrSENSE thread--Zach posted a link).
All I can say is that, when using Gscripts, make sure that you have "Needs SU?" checked. Aside from that, you just need to load Zach's scripts into Gscripts. After you load the scripts, have you pressed them? Just because you've loaded them into Gscripts doesn't mean they've run. You actually need to press on them to run them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, the tapping!! That did it. Also messed around (again) with titanium to get it to work, fig'd that out as well. Rookie mistakes...
KarateExplosion6 said:
I've used all of them at various points in time--I used to use A2SD and C2SD, but ever since C2C was developed I've had no need. In xtrSENSE4.2, I'm pretty sure C2C is enabled by default. So, you don't need to worry about it UNLESS you're running low on disk space. If you're running low, how many apps do you have installed (you should be able to store ~100 with C2C)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you're right C2C is default, I guess I'm just not certain if it's working. Apparently, there are two blocks on internal storage being used for apps in 4.2: /data/ and /cache/. I have 56mb free according to internal memory settings (/data/??) and 87.7 of 130mb used in /cache/ according to the report setting gscript Zach made. According to AppBrain I currently have 33 apps installed. 33 apps, ~100mb used already? Average of 3mb per app?? That just didn't seem right to me...maybe I'm just plain wrong. Opinions welcome!!
KarateExplosion6 said:
My recommendation would be NOT to use SetCPU. I've found that running both of Zach's Gscripts for Max and Min CPU Speed has worked better--you won't need to wait for SetCPU to load up, be granted Superuser Permission, and then adjust your clock settings on boot. Plus, you'll have one less process running at all times, increasing performance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may try that, although in full disclosure, my main reason for rooting and OC'ing was for running game console emulators. They run SO much better since OC'ing. I did try Zach's max out of the box (710 max?), but I find that my SetCPU main setting of 768,528 during normal usage makes operation even more smooth and especially works best when emulating. I want to OC even when battery is lowering until it gets to the condition threshold i set in SetCPU (amount or temp). But I still may try his scripts and lose SetCPU, thanks for the idea.
KarateExplosion6 said:
In terms of making the ROM "your own," I'd take a look in the Theme's thread. I can't provide you a list of everything that will work on xtrSENSE, but I can confirm that both the Minimal Matte Grey and Touch of Legend MetaMorph Themes do work for xtrSENSE. Also, you may want to check out LauncherPro (Plus), if you haven't already I absolutely love LauncherPro Plus, but I'm not "actively" using it. I'm really waiting on Fede to develop acceptable Photo and Music widgets to replace HTC's Sense Widgets (if anyone has suggestions on existing replacements, please let me know...). Having said that, I run a secondary "experimental" ROM on weekend--I run xtrROM with LauncherPro Plus. If you do decide to use LauncherPro, then I'd really recommend taking a look at xtrROM verses xtrSENSE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So here's my questions with this: Don't apps like MetaMorph and Launcher run on top of everything that the ROM already has going on, thus adding another cumbersome running process to the already limited hardware? Wouldn't running this be akin to having two GUI's on the phone, or am I looking at this the wrong way? I'm assuming that's why you recommend switching to the more vanilla xtrROM, but maybe I'm off.
I also do badly want to try some additional ROM's once I have the time. The leaked Froyo with Sense ROM does sound intriguing and I may pursue that next.
Thanks for all the help, really appreciate the replies!
Will go the Q&A route next time too, thanks.
KarateExplosion6 said:
Great post! +1 on Titantium Backup and Root Explorer--I use both.
Just a note: With Titanium Backup, I recommend scheduling it to backup both Apps + System Data and syncing it with Dropbox. This way, if something should happen, like your SD Card becomes corrupt and you can't Nand Restore, you'll be able to reflash your current ROM and Restore all Apps + System Data, since you're having a scheduled backup taken and stored in your Dropbox folder as well.
Having said that, when flashing a NEW ROM or UPGRADING, remember to Restore "Apps + Data" but NOT to do the "Restore Apps + System Data." This will ensure that if the developer of your ROM has changed any system files, they won't be messed up. Sure, it'll take you 10-15 minutes to get your ROM the way you want (e.g. Home Screens, Systems Sounds, Notifications, etc.) but it's worth it to know that everything will work properly. Since your applications and their set up have nothing to do with the ROM, you can rest easily knowing that at least they'll come back configured as you left them for the most part.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great thank you both! I will take both of these posts into account when using Titanium before I go further down the ROM rabbit hole.
after being a long time iPhone user, as well as windows mobile(1st gen HTC Touch/Diamond) user, I am finally making the leap to the Android O/S, via the SE Xperia X10. I know it's not the most popular device for the XDA crowd, but I do like it's fit/finish as well as the 8mp camera which will double as a temprary replacement for my recently stolen Sony T99.
what brings me here though is my high hopes that the developers will soon crack the bootloader(whatever that means), and allow us to upgrade the ROMs to Android 2.2. until then, I intend to just use the SE 2.1 firmware, unless someone can suggest a similarly stable alternative.
the reason for my starting this thread is relatively simple: I'm looking for software and/or app suggestions, software modifications, and a general "who's who" of common apps and programs that I can utilize to get myself up and running with, as well as accustomed to, the Android O/S.
any and all suggestions are welcome, but I please ask that we keep it respectable.
thanks in advance
Too many to list. Just got to the Android market and see what you want to install in your phone...
well yeah i understand i need to go through the app market to find things i like, im looking here more for things i NEED
Many users have switched to, use, and are very happy with the following mods/ changes.
ADW or Launcher Pro Plus to replace the default launcher - Both great but I now prefer LPP
Handscent SMS (possible problem with battery drain if SMS's left unread, but really great app)
K-9 Mail (I used it for ages but have recently switched back to googlemail)
Root your phone to allow you to delete any standard apps you don't need (saves internal memory and if you get rid of some of the biggies like timescape, then it helps to speed up the phone too).. also means that you can enable JIT which will speed up your phone.
Vignette is a good camera app which will take better pics than the standard one, but is a bit slow in saving the images because the file compression is lighter and therefore the files are larger..
There's loads more, but these are a good start I think.
That should give you enough to be getting on with!
once rooted, get root explorer, remove timescape and all that goes with it. frees up tons of memory and huge performance boost.
enable JIT
remove the other bloatware (moxier, sync, pc companion, etc)
thanks for all the suggestions gang. if/when i do root it and remove the bloatware or install a custom ROM, i will still have the option of reverting back to the SE 2.1 update, correct?
just read the "what is rooting" and "what is JIT" threads i could find, im REALLY trying NOT to get flamed with "use the search bar n00b" comments lol
have a look at this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=859571
i would reccommend to do this first, make a full backup then remove anything you want via titanium backup.if you dont fancy doing this then you can always use seus to get back to stock rom.
As for apps i would reccommend:
z4root
titanium backup
adfree android
poweramp
launcher pro plus/ADW
root explorer
terminal emulator
update:
installed global 2.1 ROM
installed ES File Explorer
installed Z4 root
installed Titanium Backup
..work in progress...
quadrant- 737
linpack - 17.505
Just got a shiny new Fascinate, and about to start customizing it. I would like to remove most of the large collection of cr*pware that came pre-installed, bing included. Is it possible to install superuser and uninstall this stuff without risking bricking the device?
I'm a relative Android newb, and I'd rather not dabble in custom roms as this is an employer provided phone and I'm not comfortable blasting a new firmware on it yet.
Also, if I succeed in removing the aforementioned software, can / will it be restored by resetting the device to defaults, if that's even possible? Or will I need to root the thing in order to install backup software?
Lastly, if I want to use a keyboard other than swype or the default android, do I need to move the .apk to the /system/apps folder like I did on my Nook?
Yes, you can simply root your device and not install a custom ROM. Yes, you will have to root in order to de-bloat, so be aware, although it is very simple.
Rooting walkthrough: (very painless)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=948722
Once rooted, download Titanium Backup from the Android market and de-bloat to your heart's content.
You might want to consider downloading ROM Manager (from market) and making a full backup of your rooted phone (called a Nandroid backup)
Keyboard: you can search the market for alternate keyboards (easiest method) or use adb push to /system/app if there is one you really want to use.
Cool, thanks for the response!
I'd already rooted, which would have been completely painless if I were running winblows. Nevertheless, after getting adb functional on Ubuntu it was relatively simple.
I've removed all the 'stuff' I don't want, any idea how to reassign the search button so it isn't pointing to bing also?
With Titanium and ROM Manager, would I need CWR or some other alternative boot app installed to restore this?
Also, I see lots of references to odin which is apparently needed for flashing over USB in the event I decide to take the plunge and dabble in custom roms. Anyone know if there's an equivalent for linux / osx? It astounds me that an android dev community such as this seems to be so windows centric...
for linux and mac use Heimdall, an odin clone.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
If you're still running EB01, then Bing search is hard coded. However, many custom ROMS remove this. I'm currently using SuperClean 2.9 and have both google search and google voice search (long press search button) set as my default.
A definitive list of Fascinate ROMS can be found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1013312
To restore, I would definitely use CWR, as it is the recovery method used by ROM Manager. This is done either within ROM Manager (Backup/Restore) or by booting directly into CWM. Just make sure ,with a Fascinate, you only use CWR version 2.5.x.x, since version 3.0 doesn't currently play nice with the older amend type scripting.
It downloaded EA28 right after activation - I believe it said this is a corporate contract build, which is part of why I'm reluctant to burn a custom rom.
Outside of the bing search and the speakerphone being too loud, I really have no qualms with the phone at this early stage.
Thanks for the info about CWR and such - I've been lurking here for months and find the more I read the more confused I get.
Best not to go tinkering with corporate property- no sense in losing your job over a phone.
The speakerphone volume should be adjustable via the volume rocker on the side while activated.
Yes, there is a lot of knowledge available here, lol. Just remember, everybody here started somewhere.
Funny nick btw...
artvandelay440 said:
Best not to go tinkering with corporate property- no sense in losing your job over a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not worried about that - they wouldn't fire me over a phone, I'm the guy that keeps their accounting system up at five nines. I just don't want to have to schmooze the office manager to get me a replacement if I brick it after less than a week. I'll let the new wear off a little first.
artvandelay440 said:
The speakerphone volume should be adjustable via the volume rocker on the side while activated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, but at it's lowest setting it's still loud enough to be heard 30 ft away. Not a huge issue.
Ok, last question and I'll start spending a little more time searching, I promise. What's the deal with wifi on these things? Can / will they go through the wifi to get to the cloud? It doesn't appear that mine is doing this when I'm at home where 3g is very hit-and-miss. Are there any settings to tweak? Or is wifi just there for the DLNA server and tethering? I guess i was a bit spoiled by my blackberry in that this functionality (wifi handover) worked very well on the curve.
I haven't noticed any issues with wifi and cloud applications (dropbox, evernote, etc)
If you just mean internet connectivity in general sucks on wifi, perhaps it is more a router/ISP issue and less of the phone. Might do you some good to download a wifi analyzer to your phone (market) and make sure your dB strength is adequate, as well as make sure your router is broadcasting on the least congested channel. Have you tried connecting on a different wifi network? (work, restaurant)
Already have my AP set to the channel with the best noise floor. So I don't think it's an RF issue - all my other wifi devices (two laptops, two Nook tablets, and formerly my blackberry 8320) all work as well as could be expected with the same AP configuration.
I guess what I'm wanting to know is if there's a way to setup the IP/PPP stack on the phone to default to wifi for data. I guess I need to delve into the innards of their network config to find this out. Just thought there might be a GUI config menu somewhere that I was missing.
I'm not worried about that - they wouldn't fire me over a phone, I'm the guy that keeps their accounting system up at five nines. I just don't want to have to schmooze the office manager to get me a replacement if I brick it after less than a week. I'll let the new wear off a little first.
Brick a Fascinate? Don't think its Possible, I have done just about every stupid thing you can think of to mine, including flashing Darky's 9.3 rom for the I9000 on it by accident. As long as I can get it into DL mode, odin or heimdall can fix my stupidity.
Coming from the Evo 4g most of the Roms "required" a restore of App ONLY from TB to prevent errors and odd battery drains due to the Sense versions not being native to the phone. Is this also the case with the 3D if I were to move to a 3.5 Rom or even stay native 3.0?
Also, we had to create an EXT3 partition for apps ect... for the new Sense releases to run efficiently, is this the case for the 3D? or is it basically plug and play? I do not use a ton of apps outside of what comes with the phone, some random widgets, small games ect... 25 user installed apps at best. 2nd part, some of the games install data to sdcard, I have tb'ed them back WITH data and 1st opwen I have to reinstall data. is there something I am doing wrong?
Lastly, my work email is a basic pop3 account that I sometimes don't install to the phone because it's tedious to type in the custom smtp ect... yes it's laziness haha. How do I back up the mail account so on a new rom I can just load it back in without issues? the without issues part is where I would need it. If I have to do the steps every time to properly get notifications I will because if I assume and don't then it's pointless.
Thank you
and can I get 4G on any of the 3.5 Roms????
hahaha j/k on this one, I just had to throw it in there. I rarely even use 4G.
For some of your questions I have no idea about, such as the email, but I can tell you that most ROMs do not delete your data. I have flashed about 5 different ROMs and none of them have deleted apps or my saved accounts and email.
Its been as simple as move the ROM to the SD, and flash using CWM, and no lost data what so ever. Also I usually stick to 3.0 ROMs due to the instability of 3.5 ROMs. Also I guess I've answered your email question to.
I think you missed where I was going with this.
My concern is with Titanium Back up and the batch restore function. On the 4G it was suggested to NOT tap the app+data and only install the app back due to glitching and battery drain caused by the reinstall not being 100% in sync with the different Roms.
Example: I couldn't install Facebook on the RunnyBliss hybrid with my data from the backup I made on the Sensation ported Rom. Both Roms had a different base and 3.0/3.5 not being native to the 4G it would cause excessive drain or force closes. At least a higher % chance of it.
With 3.0 being native here my question is if Titanium Backup still needs to be treated the same way.
Also, and this one I think I figured out, the 4G required a special partition set up due to the lack of Ram but i was curious if the 3.0/3.5 Roms also required this if I do not use apps2sd. I think I resolved this with some reading though.
The email one I tinkered around and found my answer, so basically I just need the 1st one still haha. And the bottom one lmao!
So i looked up a few ROMS from the sticky'd post on this forum and I am trying to decide which one is for me. Some provide a better description than others but at the end of the day I cannot figure out what I am really gaining and what I am losing.
I have a basic understanding of ROMs (or firmware or whatever people want to call them), but what it comes down to is a new operating system. My biggest question is what will I be losing? Right now my Nexus 10 is rooted but running google's standard os.What if I were to install Cyanogenmod 10 or any of the other roms. How does this affect my apps.
I have titanium back up installed so I can just back up all my apps and settings, but what user experience do I lose versus what is pre installed? How does Titanium back up work?
I know for cyanogenmod it says that there is no pre installed google related things. So I am assuming you will not be asked to set up your google account/wifi/language all that usual stuff google asks of you when you newly flash the memory, but what else do I lose?
Do some apps not work?
Does it mean I just simply have to reinstall everything?
Sorry I know this is a lot, but I am just questioning whether flashing a new rom is really worth it or is it intended more for older devices that do not receive the support of new firmware updates.
Newer ROM's and Kernels usually have more updated fixes and performance increases in comparison to stock. For example, franco.Kernel has a different throttling code, which helps out very nicely (goes to 1GHz in 1 step if the device is hot, and then down to 700MHz if it gets even hotter; no memory downclocking). Stock would downclock the CPU in increments of 100MHz, then spike it back to 1.7GHz, on top of also downing the clocks for GPU and memory. The difference in throttling can easily be seen in some high-end games like NFS:MW, which would slideshow on stock because of the aggressive throttling. franco.Kernel also has some fixes for the graphics and an updated WiFi driver.
But then again, what I just mentioned is mostly in relation to the kernel lol... I currently use rasbeanjelly because I like the dark theming (other ROM's have theming support though), but mostly because it's a stripped down AOSP build, that is very responsive I used to use CM10.1 nightlies before mostly because I liked being up-to-date (and nightlies come once a day with updates).
tyhe314 said:
So i looked up a few ROMS from the sticky'd post on this forum and I am trying to decide which one is for me. Some provide a better description than others but at the end of the day I cannot figure out what I am really gaining and what I am losing.
I have a basic understanding of ROMs (or firmware or whatever people want to call them), but what it comes down to is a new operating system. My biggest question is what will I be losing? Right now my Nexus 10 is rooted but running google's standard os.What if I were to install Cyanogenmod 10 or any of the other roms. How does this affect my apps.
I have titanium back up installed so I can just back up all my apps and settings, but what user experience do I lose versus what is pre installed? How does Titanium back up work?
I know for cyanogenmod it says that there is no pre installed google related things. So I am assuming you will not be asked to set up your google account/wifi/language all that usual stuff google asks of you when you newly flash the memory, but what else do I lose?
Do some apps not work?
Does it mean I just simply have to reinstall everything?
Sorry I know this is a lot, but I am just questioning whether flashing a new rom is really worth it or is it intended more for older devices that do not receive the support of new firmware updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Like you said you have titanium back up installed, so as long as you backup all your user apps before flashing your apps, they will not be effected. (I have no clue how titanium backup works but it does)
2.Because of (I think copy rights) no ASOP will come with google apps ( Like google maps) but each ROM thread will direct you to a GAPPS download (which stands for Goggle APPS). You will just need to flash that ZIP after you flash your rom and BOOM you have all your google apps. You can still log into your google account at the startup, which has all your saved wifi's all your apps that you purchased on the PLAY store, all info in the calendar, etc. All in all you will lose virtual nothing after you restore your apps via titanium backup
3. Will you have to re install everything. Short answer yes, long answer no. After you restore via titanium backup, your apps will be just like they were before you flashed your new shiny ROM. But you will have to reorganize your homescreen, and redo your settings.
4. What will you gain? Well that all depends on what ROM you decided to go with it. That's what so great about ROMS and the Developers here, they provide you with so many different features. Like the guy above said, a new kernel can help with lag issues, or a new ROM can actually give you a tablet UI. Some of the benefits will be "under the hood" and you might not even notice them. There are many different features ( I recommond trying all the ROMS!)
5. I never had an User app not work because of a ROM
If you have anymore questions just ask!
(If I got anything wrong on here please correct me!)
For homescreens
sorryihaveaids said:
3. Will you have to re install everything. Short answer yes, long answer no. After you restore via titanium backup, your apps will be just like they were before you flashed your new shiny ROM. But you will have to reorganize your homescreen, and redo your settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or you could use Nova launcher and just restore your backed up homescreens and settings.
Paranoidandroid to fix the dumb center buttons and move it back to the sides
That alone is worth an aftermarket rom
Sent from my SGH-I317M using xda app-developers app