Finally! After days of struggling to figure out how to modify my ROM's framework-res.apk and create a working flashable update.zip to install the framework-res.apk changes, I have finally figured out how (big thanks to the guys here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=20962080#post20962080) and have created an automated script to help others struggling with the same problem.
Framework Flasher 1.1.4
Feel free to download and experiment with it. This is my first gift to the XDA/Android Hacking community, and I plan on doing more. I just want to test the waters for now Feedback would be nice. Let me know if I've helped you in some way!
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What does it do?
It extracts your framework-res.apk file and allows you to edit the files. After editing, the script will compile, sign the apk, create your update.zip with the correct structure for flashing, and then sign the .zip. Everything you need to modify and flash your framework-res.apk file.
How do I use it?
Download the .zip from the link below and extract it somewhere on your PC. Drag the framework-res.apk file that you want to modify and/or flash into the /place-framework-res-here/ directory. Double-click on RunMe.bat and off you go! Do the steps (1-5) in order and you shouldn't have any problems.
Who needs this?
A LOT of people according to how many google searches I did in the past 3-4 days.
Will it work for files other than framework-res.apk?
Currently, no. However it would be easy to implement that functionality if I saw that people would benefit from it.
I found a bug... what do I do?
Post it in this topic. I'll do what I can to make continual updates as long as I see people are benefiting from it. I'm sure there are bugs in it somewhere, so just let me know.
Where do I download this snazzy piece of software?
http://www.mediafire.com/?1nc14hkhs2yrqmt
The little disclaimer
If you download this tool, please say thanks! Not only does it motivate me to continue to improve this software, but it also let's me know how many users are using it! Thanks!
This script is mainly intended for use with editing script files (xml, etc.), and normal (non 9png) images. 9pngs have been successfully repacked using this tool! If you run into any problems, be sure to make it known!
This tools was created to work with the Droid X2. If you are experiencing problems using it, first ensure that you are in fact using a Droid X2.
Change Log
1.1.4 (1/14/12)
- Corrected the Log error. You can now see error logs!
- Corrected an error processing problem where Framework Flasher would instantly close without warning
1.1 (1/7/12)
- Made compatibility tweaks
- Removed unnecessary overhead
1.0 (1/6/12)
- Initial Release
When reporting errors, please ensure that there are no spaces in your file path, and include what ROM and version you are running.
Hello
This is an awesome little tool you got here. I haven't tried it yet but I'll likely give it a shot eventually.
You should add functionality for SystemUI.apk, that's the other "real big" file people like to edit. Just a suggestion based on what I know about theming
Very nice!
So r u telling me this will modify everything including the. 9 png images..also can u get into the xml files as well or images only...i use apk manager and with the. 9 pngs u cannot touch the 9 patches or change the image without using draw 9 patch to ensure the apk will recompile
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
PoorCollegeGuy said:
Hello
This is an awesome little tool you got here. I haven't tried it yet but I'll likely give it a shot eventually.
You should add functionality for SystemUI.apk, that's the other "real big" file people like to edit. Just a suggestion based on what I know about theming
Very nice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I will definitely look into adding this. I'll update the OP with any changes or updates.
Kevin3328 said:
So r u telling me this will modify everything including the. 9 png images..also can u get into the xml files as well or images only...i use apk manager and with the. 9 pngs u cannot touch the 9 patches or change the image without using draw 9 patch to ensure the apk will recompile
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not tested 9pngs with this, it's mainly intended for scripting (xml files, etc. along with normal non 9png images). I've updated the OP to include a little disclaimer stating this fact. Thanks for pointing that out.
.9.png seems to work
Thanks Wesf90 for the tool. I was curious about the .9.png myself. Looking at the script it decompiles and compiles using apktool just like the apkmanager script does so just by looking at your RunMe.bat it looks like it would be fine. I did test it out to be sure though. So I took the framework-res from eclipse 2.0.3 changes some 9.png files and recompiled without any issues. It is important to note that you need to be careful when editing 9.png files to NOT change the black "patches" around the edge of those images. Doing so will cause bad patches and will generate errors when re-compiling. So for example if you apply a filter to the entire image double check that the color value of the black patches are still 000000 (I've done this ). If you don't mess with the patches all should be fine. It also depends on the original framework-res you are starting with. If you use one that has broken 9.pngs in it to start then you will need to fix them before re-compiling (I've done this too ).
Nice work. I especially like that step 4 that creates the update.zip. That is not in apkmanager that I've been using. So following steps 1,2,3,4 sure does make it simpler for a beginner which was your goal. Keep up the good work!
hedwig34 said:
Thanks Wesf90 for the tool. I was curious about the .9.png myself. Looking at the script it decompiles and compiles using apktool just like the apkmanager script does so just by looking at your RunMe.bat it looks like it would be fine. I did test it out to be sure though. So I took the framework-res from eclipse 2.0.3 changes some 9.png files and recompiled without any issues. It is important to note that you need to be careful when editing 9.png files to NOT change the black "patches" around the edge of those images. Doing so will cause bad patches and will generate errors when re-compiling. So for example if you apply a filter to the entire image double check that the color value of the black patches are still 000000 (I've done this ). If you don't mess with the patches all should be fine. It also depends on the original framework-res you are starting with. If you use one that has broken 9.pngs in it to start then you will need to fix them before re-compiling (I've done this too ).
Nice work. I especially like that step 4 that creates the update.zip. That is not in apkmanager that I've been using. So following steps 1,2,3,4 sure does make it simpler for a beginner which was your goal. Keep up the good work!
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the test run. I've updated to OP to state that 9pngs have been tested.
Creating the update.zip was the hardest part for me, learning how to use update-script and updater-script. Hopefully this will help everyone else get on the right path.
is it possible, that after the editing was done, to simply push the framework to its place? without flashing recovery?
Dude XDA did a writeup on this.. but the article states there is no. 9 compatibility .... which is not true your program decompiles just like apk manager and apk tool do... .9 can be edited the patches simply can't be touched.. making this an awesome little tool !!!
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
Sweet tool, just what I've been looking for
Just wanted to drop in and say thanks for this tool (button hit, donation forthcoming).
I tried this with my framework-res file from and ICS 4.0.1 ROM I'm running and it decompiles perfectly, but after I make edits and try and recompile, the script just closes.
I tried looking at the log in the folder of the tool and it didn't have any information except the date/time I ran the script.
Any thoughts? Would love to make use of this if you think it should work for me. Thanks again!
XT69 said:
is it possible, that after the editing was done, to simply push the framework to its place? without flashing recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, definitely possible if you have ADB access. I may add this feature, but the idea of the tool is primarily to allow users to create a flash-able file for their's, or others', phones. I'll put it on my to-do list though
Kevin3328 said:
Dude XDA did a writeup on this.. but the article states there is no. 9 compatibility .... which is not true your program decompiles just like apk manager and apk tool do... .9 can be edited the patches simply can't be touched.. making this an awesome little tool !!!
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I noticed that about the 9pngs in the article, however several people (including yourself) have stated that 9png's work fine. So hopefully XDA will eventually update the post.
zaxondis said:
Just wanted to drop in and say thanks for this tool (button hit, donation forthcoming).
I tried this with my framework-res file from and ICS 4.0.1 ROM I'm running and it decompiles perfectly, but after I make edits and try and recompile, the script just closes.
I tried looking at the log in the folder of the tool and it didn't have any information except the date/time I ran the script.
Any thoughts? Would love to make use of this if you think it should work for me. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. I plan on releasing another update soon, so send me the file you tried (I sent you a PM), I plan on weeding out small bugs quickly. Once the update is ready, hopefully I can have this bug fixed (or at least resolved)
Wes
zaxondis said:
Just wanted to drop in and say thanks for this tool (button hit, donation forthcoming).
I tried this with my framework-res file from and ICS 4.0.1 ROM I'm running and it decompiles perfectly, but after I make edits and try and recompile, the script just closes.
I tried looking at the log in the folder of the tool and it didn't have any information except the date/time I ran the script.
Any thoughts? Would love to make use of this if you think it should work for me. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
had the same here!
other then that great tool
Ok to u guys having this happen... try to decompile and them recompile immediately ... if this works odds are u damaged a .9 png... those images have a black 1 pixel boarder that cannot be touched
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
Maybe a dumb question but do we flash this in recovery or is this for pc use?Thanks I been itching to try this on my Iced Sam Vib...
Program is for PC use when u r done it will create a flashing zip for u
Sent from my DROID X2 using xda premium
Dougfresh said:
Maybe a dumb question but do we flash this in recovery or is this for pc use?Thanks I been itching to try this on my Iced Sam Vib...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you're absolutely correct. Once you go through the steps and create the update.zip file, simple place that file onto your sd card. Then flash the .zip in recovery.
Wes
Doesn't work for me. It says that echo is off.
Thanks wesf90. Going to DL, and check this out.
Work with any Android?
Will this work with any Android system, like the GS2? Sorry if I missed the answer somewhere above.
Thx.
disclaimernotice said:
Doesn't work for me. It says that echo is off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does this happen as soon as you start it?
Related
Hello!
I'm trying to make my own Rom right now. With dsixda's Kitchen it isn't very hard to do so I thought I'd just give it a try. I'm taking a rooted official Update (Version: 2.10.405.2) as my base. Adding busybox runparts, the /data/app functionality, a2sd+, the custom bootanimation functionality etc. isn't a problem. Removing some apps like Maps, Facebook, Teeter (and so on) and adding some like Rom Manager, Neocore or Quadrant isn't a problem, too. But if I want to implement a theme like the Carbon Espresso Mod or a theme I made with the UOT Kitchen I'm getting bootloops at booting the phone. Here's what I do: I unzip the folder (for example a theme made with the UOT Kitchen) and I copy over the framework-res.apk from the unzipped folder to my Working Folder of the Kitchen (to system/framework) and I overwrite the original framework-res.apk.
And NO: I didn't choose a battery mod or a bootanimation in the UOT Kitchen....
Hope you guys can help me
I might be wrong but doesn't the new file have to be signed? I know there is a signing option in the kitchen.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
It's a system .apk so it doesn't have to be signed.
I can't shed any light on the subject, but here's a bump.
Are you replacing the whole "framework-res.apk" file? If so then you will need to resign your entire ROM. Why? When you change a system file ("framework-res.apk", "com.htc.framework.apk", "twframework-res", "rosie.apk", etc.) it no longer has a matching "signature" for all the files it serves images to. Plug your phone into your computer and open up "ddms" in your android_sdk > tools folder to watch what happens when the phone boots up.
A workaround (The way I do it, it's more fun IMHO) is to open up your .apk files in 7zip (or if you're on a mac BetterZip) and add the images from the themed .apk to your stock .apk. This way makes it so your original .apk has the same signature as your other system files yet has the new images from the other files that you wanted. I've had a lot of luck with this method. I don't know if it will still work if you change any .xml files as I have not messed with those yet.
I've subscribed to this thread so if you have any questions post back here or you can PM me if you want. I'm on XDA all day, every day so I'll try to help as much as I can.
Thanks for all the answers! Especially to you, mbobino. Is there a way to sign the whole Rom new? When I make my Rom at the End, the Kitchen signs it automatically, doesn't it? The idea with the images is very good, but if I want to implement a theme like Carbon Espresso it isn't that easy, 'cause Carbon Espresso isn't just a few images. There are several .xml's etc.
The reason you boot loop is mis matched resource ID's in the public.xml file. If you decompile the framework using apktool after adding your images using an archiver then recompile apktool will update the public file for you which saves you from pulling ID''s for every image. I have a video tutorial of how to set up apktool and decompile framework in my Rom thread. Changing images in app apk's won't cause you to boot loop just messing with the framework will.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
DomiKamp said:
Thanks for all the answers! Especially to you, mbobino. Is there a way to sign the whole Rom new? When I make my Rom at the End, the Kitchen signs it automatically, doesn't it? The idea with the images is very good, but if I want to implement a theme like Carbon Espresso it isn't that easy, 'cause Carbon Espresso isn't just a few images. There are several .xml's etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The kitchen signs the .zip that you flash when you build it. It does not sign any .apks for you on its own. However, there is an option to sign .apks within the kitchen.
In my opinion, taking all of the images and figuring out how it all works is fun. I feel like I've already learned quite a bit from just digging around and moving files around.
As for the .xml files, you can decompile the .apk and edit them and then recompile the .apk. I'm actually looking into this today. It sounds like some work but hopefully I'll get it figured out.
Sounds like fun indeed So, I'll just have to try it. Where can I find the "Settings" for the Notification Bar? Thanks
The variois status*.xml files in the res/layout folder of the framework-res.apk and the status*.smali files in the services.jar.
What? If I want to implement a Theme made with the UOT Kitchen (without battery) I should just copy over those files to my existing res-framework.apk OR copy over the whole res-framework.apk (the new one) and sign it?
EDIT: Just tried it with a theme from the UOT Kitchen and it worked perfectly. I've just signed the res-framework.apk and the htc.com.resources.apk (or whatever) in the Kitchen, flashed it on my Phone and it just worked like a Charm. But I have got a 50% Transparent Notification Bar and all the system icons (Battery and time/date) are still black and not transparent! Has anyone got a idea where to change this? (.xml or whatever)...And does anyone know where I can find the HTC Wallpapers? I want to change them a little bit
HeyItsLou said:
The reason you boot loop is mis matched resource ID's in the public.xml file. If you decompile the framework using apktool after adding your images using an archiver then recompile apktool will update the public file for you which saves you from pulling ID''s for every image. I have a video tutorial of how to set up apktool and decompile framework in my Rom thread. Changing images in app apk's won't cause you to boot loop just messing with the framework will.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HeyItsLou, I looked up your ROM thread but couldn't locate the video tutorial.... do you mind providing the url? Specifically, I am trying to add to the list of wallpapers in a ROM. (I have setup apktool but not sure where/which folder to add my wallpapers in Framework-res.apk Launcher.apk before recompiling/signing). Thanks.
You COULD use the Theme Porter by daneshm90. It will only port the PNG s for it so things like clock colour n stuff will be lost, but it will get you alot closer...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=737526
Sent from my HTC Hero using XDA App
Thanks! But like I've written before in my Edit, I made it. The bigger theme (Carbon Espresso) wasn't a problem, too. I just had to sign the .apk's in system/app and system/framework (the kitchen doesn't do it by itself. You have to choose the option to sign a single .apk and then look, where the system/framework .apk's are...). Works great now!
DomiKamp said:
Thanks! But like I've written before in my Edit, I made it. The bigger theme (Carbon Espresso) wasn't a problem, too. I just had to sign the .apk's in system/app and system/framework (the kitchen doesn't do it by itself. You have to choose the option to sign a single .apk and then look, where the system/framework .apk's are...). Works great now!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isnt that what I said in the 2nd post -.- lol jk. Glad you got it working!
Yes! And that's why I tried it. And it worked! Thanks Husker and, of course, everybody else!
Glad you got it working. Welcome to the development side of android!
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
I don't sign system files or apps and apkmanager among other threads I've read say not to. Im on a rooted backflip. I find I only have to sign third party apps to install.
Why do you have to sign YOUR files?
Sorry for answering that late. Had a few things to do, so I wasn't online very often
If you want to cook an App into your Rom (NeoCore for example), then you don't have to sign it. You can just copy it into data/app. But if you want to change the whole framework-res.apk of the Rom, you have to sign it. 'Cause if you don't sign it, you'll get a Bootloop. The framework-res.apk is a very important part of the Rom, so it has to "fit" to the others. There are some ID's which have to match. Otherwise it won't work. That's how I understood it
Another Question: Has anybody got an Idea where to change the things that are coming, when you first start the phone with a new Rom (the "installation" of the Rom)? I wan't to write: "Welcome to DomiKamp's Rom!" Or something like that...
bestialbub said:
I don't sign system files or apps and apkmanager among other threads I've read say not to. Im on a rooted backflip. I find I only have to sign third party apps to install.
Why do you have to sign YOUR files?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was curious about this too. I always edit the framework-res of any ROM I flash using a custom set of images I have and have never signed the apk afterwards and it has always worked. Maybe cause I'm only replacing images? I usually do this with framework-res and twframework-res and they both can sometimes grow by 1MB or more. Just my experience.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
DomiKamp said:
Sorry for answering that late. Had a few things to do, so I wasn't online very often
If you want to cook an App into your Rom (NeoCore for example), then you don't have to sign it. You can just copy it into data/app. But if you want to change the whole framework-res.apk of the Rom, you have to sign it. 'Cause if you don't sign it, you'll get a Bootloop. The framework-res.apk is a very important part of the Rom, so it has to "fit" to the others. There are some ID's which have to match. Otherwise it won't work. That's how I understood it
Another Question: Has anybody got an Idea where to change the things that are coming, when you first start the phone with a new Rom (the "installation" of the Rom)? I wan't to write: "Welcome to DomiKamp's Rom!" Or something like that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that in order to do the "welcome to" thing you'll have to edit the update-script file. I'm not 100% on it though. Look at a cm Rom and see what all is in there.
Sent from my HTC Evo 4G using XDA App
It's not much, but I thought everyone should be able to theme their Legend
Requirements: WinZip(or any other zipping program), Android SDK, testsign, some graphics editor...
So what you need to start with is your framework files:
framework-res.apk, com.htc.resources.apk ... both are located in SYSTEM:framework/
These files are just renamed zip files, so rename them back to .zip and extract them (you can also edit them inside WINRAR or something, but it is more comfortable if you extract them)
In these, images are usually saved in res/drawable-mdpi or such, but you have to think here, allways modify all files from one resource
Now locate the images you want to edit but I only know how to edit .png files (.9.png files are for a different howto, probably not by me as I've never really mastered it)
Pick those you want to edit, and edit them (I'm not gonna tell you how here, I usually use photoshop to do that )
Once you have edited those images, it is recomended to optimize those png's (Firstly to make them smaller, but more importantly, most of the times the png's from Windows graphics editor didn't work for me...)
To optimize png's you can use:
OptiPNG: DOWNLOAD This one is drag'n'drop batch conversion capable...
Pngcrush: DOWNLOAD Command line utility, but it has more settings
...or something else, but I find these two the best
Once you have these optimized, copy and re-write them to folders you took them from to edit...
Now you need to zip these back, for framework files I was told it is usual to zip them as "store", but correct me someone if I'm wrong.
After you have zipped those, they will have to be re-signed. To do this, use testsign from code.google.com
Then run this in cmd line (or create a .bat file as I did, it's much easier):
Code:
java -classpath testsign.jar testsign [COLOR="DarkRed"]file.zip[/COLOR] [COLOR="DarkRed"]file-signed.zip[/COLOR]
Now that you have signed it, it is recomended to zipalign it:
(zipalign.exe is located in /tools in your SDK)
Run this in cmd line:
Code:
zipalign 4 [COLOR="DarkRed"]infile.zip[/COLOR] [COLOR="DarkRed"]outfile.zip[/COLOR]
(4 is alignment in bytes)
Now that you have aligned the .zip, rename it to the original name and then you just need to push it back to your phone:
Code:
adb shell mount /system
adb push [COLOR="DarkRed"]com.htc.resources.apk[/COLOR] /system/framework/[COLOR="DarkRed"]com.htc.resources.apk[/COLOR]
or
adb push [COLOR="DarkRed"]framework-res.apk[/COLOR] /system/framework/[COLOR="DarkRed"]framework-res.apk[/COLOR]
And you're done
I hope this helps someone! Enjoy!
note: This way you should be able to modify any apk I think
Is this the thing that has the potential to break the power menu in BlaY0's ROM, among other things?
Amongst other things...but this works on any ROM as long as you follow the guide I've succesfully ported my BattMod and Cryshop's navbar/lockscreen to B0.8 while doing these exact steps
Dr.Romca said:
Amongst other things...but this works on any ROM as long as you follow the guide I've succesfully ported my BattMod and Cryshop's navbar/lockscreen to B0.8 while doing these exact steps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can you post them?
stegg said:
can you post them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why? He gave you quite simple instructions on how to construct it yourself, so he wouldn't need to do that for every single release for any of you.
Sent from my HTC Legend
Right on I think it's simple enough...besides, I had to figure this all out myself...
It's nice when people use that round head sitting on their neck
BlaY0 said:
Why? He gave you quite simple instructions on how to construct it yourself, so he wouldn't need to do that for every single release for any of you.
Sent from my HTC Legend
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you have some personality disorder, you'd better see someone specialised in mental health care
stegg said:
you have some personality disorder, you'd better see someone specialised in mental health care
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will do that as soon as you contribute at least one theme for three different roms and then supply new updates for every new release of those roms...
Sent from my HTC Legend
stegg said:
you have some personality disorder, you'd better see someone specialised in mental health care
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh come on stegg, that was uncalled for I just think it's a better idea to share how I did it rather then do all the work for you. Hell it would be a full time job - making themes for everyone
...too bad there isn't a "what the hell?" button ...
Question ; are there any limitations to what you can port like different functioning slide bar / nav bar?
Sent from my HTC Legend using XDA Premium App
This howto only tells you how to replace png's inside those framework .apk packages. And you can change navbar as well, but you'd have to make it in the same shape as long as you don't want to decompile the apk...
Cool thanks, I'm giving this a go now
Sent from my HTC Legend using XDA Premium App
I guess my device has to be rooted to do this?
You are correct, sir
Damn...
I want to learn how to theme. I've read this guide http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=916814
I Think i understand the process of editing images, I'm not a noob when it comes to photoshop, but i get a little frustrated when it comes to the topic of signing. I have a windows vista system, and section two of this https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AcdxIJRSH9ypZGZzc2pxNDlfMjdnazk4OHNxZA&hl=en states that signing in vista causes bootloops unless you take other steps. The directions for XP seem so straight forward, is there a way to sign without all the hassle that vista seems to cause?
I've been told that if you use another theme for a base, resigning is not needed. I'm a noob at this also, really wanting to learn.
thenaut said:
I want to learn how to theme. I've read this guide http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=916814
I Think i understand the process of editing images, I'm not a noob when it comes to photoshop, but i get a little frustrated when it comes to the topic of signing. I have a windows vista system, and section two of this https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AcdxIJRSH9ypZGZzc2pxNDlfMjdnazk4OHNxZA&hl=en states that signing in vista causes bootloops unless you take other steps. The directions for XP seem so straight forward, is there a way to sign without all the hassle that vista seems to cause?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When it comes to basic themeing, you don't need to sign anything....its a matter of extracting and re-zipping the apk without signing it so it keeps its original signature...then you would add all your themed apks in a CWM flashable zip(that isn't signed either).....use APK Manager....it works wonders for theme devs
Mr. Apocalypse said:
When it comes to basic themeing, you don't need to sign anything....its a matter of extracting and re-zipping the apk without signing it so it keeps its original signature...then you would add all your themed apks in a CWM flashable zip(that isn't signed either).....use APK Manager....it works wonders for theme devs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man,
If i'm understanding you correctly you are basically saying that if i take from an existing theme i don't have to sign. but i create my own theme based off of a rom i need to sign it?
EDIT: nevermind, i mixed both responses up and with my question. i'm a little off today
thenaut said:
Thanks man,
If i'm understanding you correctly you are basically saying that if i take from an existing theme i don't have to sign. but i create my own theme based off of a rom i need to sign it?
EDIT: nevermind, i mixed both responses up and with my question. i'm a little off today
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok...let me try to clarify this...if you're new to theme developing, get "signing" out of your head
You would only need to sign an apk if it was being installed...
When you theme, nothing is being "installed", all of the original apks that are in your /system/ directory are replaced with your themed ones while flashing....
YOU NEVER SIGN AN APK THAT IS BEING SENT TO /system/ DIRECTORY
In reality, no themed apks are signed, because they are sent to the /system/ directory....its just a matter of extracting the stock apk, make your mods, and re-zip. As a said above, if you use Apk Manager, this will be a breeze
Mr. Apocalypse said:
Ok...let me try to clarify this...if you're new to theme developing, get "signing" out of your head
You would only need to sign an apk if it was being installed...
When you theme, nothing is being "installed", all of the original apks that are in your /system/ directory are replaced with your themed ones while flashing....
YOU NEVER SIGN AN APK THAT IS BEING SENT TO /system/ DIRECTORY
In reality, no themed apks are signed, because they are sent to the /system/ directory....its just a matter of extracting the stock apk, make your mods, and re-zip. As a said above, if you use Apk Manager, this will be a breeze
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, You've helped a lot. can't wait to start. I have to go to work though, so tomorrow, hopefully.
thenaut said:
Thanks, You've helped a lot. can't wait to start. I have to go to work though, so tomorrow, hopefully.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have any other questions, PM me....i'm always willing to help someone who is willing to learn.
What I do when i want to change something... example I made my own lock screen.
If it was already explained how to do this... im sorry for wasting your and mine time... I only have about 5 minutes so I cant read everything before i post this... but this is what i do when i want to edit the theme.
I put the rom on my computer and extract it... locate the files I need to edit, (they are alwas going to be in the res folder of an extracted .apk and then in a drawable folder.) I take the files i want and I edit them. put them back on my phone... copy the framework-res.apk from systems>framework>framework-res.apk and then put it in a folder i created on my sdcard.
Using Astro File Manager I select my edited files and copy them.... then click on framework-res.apk and select browse and past my edited files into the framework-res.apk then using root explorer I then copy my edited framework-res.apk and paste it back in system>framework>framework-res.apk
I've been trying to make a couple of modifications to framework-res.apk and I've been having a lot of trouble. I've bootlooped the DX2 more than a few times (and was able to recover with the recently released SBF).
I've tried making one change, I've tried signing the file, I've tried not signing it, I've tried different compression levels on the zip, all with no luck. The one time I got my apk into the phone with my change on board (I verified that it was there) my change was ignored by the phone. (I've been trying to replace /res/drawable-hdp/zz_moto_list_texture_bg.png to change the default list background from the light gray to black.)
Has anyone been successful making modifications to this file in a DX2? If so, how did you do it?
What did program did you zip it with?
What was the compression set to?
Did you sign the file? If so, with what program and key?
What method did you use to drop framework-res.apk back into the phone?
Are there any files that should not be modified? (I've heard to leave the ".9" files alone.)
Thanks,
Chris
I've been trying to do the exact same thing and haven't got too far. I'm doing dev stuff thru Ubuntu and it seems to be very friendly along with gimp. I've actually been able to drag and drop replacement files without extracting the apk but haven't been able to flash it inside a theme. I haven't actually tried just replacing the framework.
Staying tuned...
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA App
You can make a theme at uot.dakra.lt and flash the .zip file to your phone.. jus upload your framework-res.apk to the site once you make it, but anyway, they modify the file and it worked for me.
Peperm1nt said:
You can make a theme at uot.dakra.lt and flash the .zip file to your phone.. jus upload your framework-res.apk to the site once you make it, but anyway, they modify the file and it worked for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I've been using this but it's not really set up for blur. we're talking about going deeper than UOT can reach with current software.
Sent from my DROID X2 using XDA App
You can recompile and decompile with apkmanager, but its not without some hiccups. First, it compresses the resources.arsc which unlike the rest of the apk needs to be decompressed. To fix this I pull it out then with 7zip I add it back to the framework-res archive with zip as the format and store as compression. That fixes the boot-loops. Even after that there's been some minor problems with it recompiling certain .xml a little goofy.
But at least it doesnt cause a boot loop.
I've been getting a little stale on modding lately so I figured I would spice up a tool I built a while ago that helps me when pulling and decompiling files. This tool will do the following.....
Completely revamped
Does a whole bunch ofstuff
Auto odexing not included yet...don't select it...lol...it will drop on the next release
All you need to do is make sure you have debugging on and your phone plugged into your usb cord.
You will also need your Samsung USB drivers installed.
To run the file simply extract the contents to any folder and double click the "RUN.bat"
Then follow the prompts.....
Drop your odex system and frame work files in the deodexing/framework_files and deodexing/app_files folders respectively if you want to try the deodexing features.
THIS IS A SOMEWHAT BETA RELEASE!!!! There are somethings that may not work properly so I am posting up so you can help me find the bugs. This will not damage your phone but I still have to say I am not responsible for any damage .
***EDIT.....forgot to mention this is a self contained program. It houses the necessary files for both APKTOOL and ADB. You can extract this zip anywhere and run. No special directories are required.
Please send me feedback about errors you have or ideas you would like to see go into an upcoming update.
To use the DEODEXING Feature you must drop your odex framework files into deodexing/framework_files.
Enjoy!!
Thanks Button!!
DOWNLOAD
Looks cool! Great work boss
This tool looks great - just what I've been looking for. Thanks for putting it together and sharing!
Can't wait for my eyes to open, gj !
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 2
Its pretty cool and versatile also. If you are familiar with BAT files at all you can mod it up to do most anything you like. I am going to try and expand on it a little when I get time to be more interactive if I get positive feedback about it. I would like to hear from those that have used it and what they think. Suggestions on improvements and options would be cool too.
Looks awesome! Can't wait to try it!
Sent from a Shaftamle Galaxy S4
"Thanks Button" is always appreciated!
http://mycolorscreen.com/Shaftamle/
Not sure how many have tried this tool but i have made HUGE improvements and added may new features to the next release. I am going to officially call this thing the Multi-Tool
It will do the following
pull files from phone
decompile files
recompile files
set framework
reboot/download-mode/recovery options
simple logcat functions
push files to phone
odex files
deodex files
....all from very simple interactive menu's.
SEE ATTACHED PIC......
I should have it ready by the end of the week....stay tuned!!
Didact74 said:
Not sure how many have tried this tool but i have made HUGE improvements and added may new features to the next release. I am going to officially call this thing the Multi-Tool
It will do the following
pull files from phone
decompile files
recompile files
set framework
reboot/download-mode/recovery options
simple logcat functions
push files to phone
odex files
deodex files
....all from very simple interactive menu's.
SEE ATTACHED PIC......
I should have it ready by the end of the week....stay tuned!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Killing it here
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda premium
Nice job.
I was just getting ready to set up my adb and apk environment and you did it for me.
Can this hurt anything if people use it on a rooted but locked bootloader when you set up the push capability. Just don't want people to get in trouble.
Thanks
Didact74 said:
Not sure how many have tried this tool but i have made HUGE improvements and added may new features to the next release. I am going to officially call this thing the Multi-Tool
It will do the following
pull files from phone
decompile files
recompile files
set framework
reboot/download-mode/recovery options
simple logcat functions
push files to phone
odex files
deodex files
....all from very simple interactive menu's.
SEE ATTACHED PIC......
I should have it ready by the end of the week....stay tuned!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome work. Cant wait to see what you have done!
UPDATE... bunch of new crap and new interface.
I need some testers to tell me whats not working.
ODEXING isnot functional yet...i know this, so dont select it
DEODEXING however IS functional.
Let me know of any bugs you find (because you will ) and any ideas you have for a future update.
Thanks!!
I have fixed the IMAGES section....the feature which allows you to pull system, data, boot, etc images. I will put the fix in the next release!
Keep the feed back coming...
Didact74 said:
I have fixed the IMAGES section....the feature which allows you to pull system, data, boot, etc images. I will put the fix in the next release!
Keep the feed back coming...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who's the man, You da man. Nice work bro! The Odex option will be sweet:good::good:
will gladly give a test/report tomorrow dude
Nice work
@Didact74 : I used your puller_n_decompiler tool, and it worked GREAT, know I'll have to try this one for sure, what can I say, great work and thanks a ton.
claude96 said:
@Didact74 : I used your puller_n_decompiler tool, and it worked GREAT, know I'll have to try this one for sure, what can I say, great work and thanks a ton.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man. Update with some new features coming in a few days.
Didact74 said:
Thanks man. Update with some new features coming in a few days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great, more good news, thanks a mill ton for all your great mods n tools n tuts n all.