I just installed a ROM (Senseless ROM 1.1) and I'm liking it a lot. But I noticed something odd when pressing and holding the "home" key to bring up the "recent apps" list. Every few minutes the oldest items drop off the end of the list.
So initially maybe I have 4 apps in the list, then after a while of switching between apps 1 and 2, suddenly there are only 3 apps in the list, then 2. And eventually it even drops down to 0 so the app I'm currently running isn't even in the list. Does the stock phone do this too and I only just now noticed it or is this feature only an issue with my particular ROM? What aspect of android controls the app switcher (if that's what it's called).
I'm using launcher-pro if it matters, and I haven't installed any task switchers from the market. I might consider getting one of the market task switchers as a decent workaround, but I'm not necessarily keen on the interface they all seem to use (tap home -> task switcher; tap home twice -> home screen of your launcher that you would otherwise get to with a single tap).
I haven't yet found any settings for controlling the app switcher. Are there any, and where do they live?
I almost can't imagine that this is an intentional design feature of the "recent app" history, but after an LED "notification" light that turns off after 5 minutes, anything is possible.
For what it's worth I started using the market app "PreHome" as a task switcher and am finding it a good replacement for the default. Now I just hit [home] once to bring up the PreHome app which maintains a good history, and never use the hold [home] to get the default android task history.
Oddly enough I haven't been able to reproduce the original problem I had reported, even when I do use the default switcher for a while.
I knew this would happen.. as soon as I reported that it wasn't reproducing anymore I started hitting the problem again. At least the part where semi-old items start dropping off the history list. I still haven't yet reproduce a history list containing 0 items.
Browsing the web seems to be the most reliable way to make older apps fall off the end of the list. Specifically I was browsing m.zedge.net listening to ringtones.
Anyway the only new news is that when an item drops out of the traditional app history list, it also dropped out of the PreHome app's list.
I have thought about new hack :
Select a default application for a given time only, then revert to open application selection (something like expire default application selection)
How to :
Replace "Use by default for this action." checkbox and text by a drop down list in the application section window (named : "complete action with"). The list could contain items like :
No default (no default app is set)
Remember for 10 minutes (set selected app as default for 10 minutes only, then revert to no default)
Remember for 30 minutes
Remember for 1 hour
Always use by default for this action (current behaviour available)
Sample use case :
Click a link in Gmail
Browser selection appears
Select "Remember for 30 minutes"
Tap "Opera Mini" (because you don't have 3G coverage where you are for instance)
Opera mini opens
Go back to Gmail, tap another link
Opera mini opens straight away (as the default app, no app selection window)
After 30 minutes, when the browser is triggered, the "Application selection" window appears again and you can chose stock browser for a while if you have better network coverage...
What do you think about that ? Has anyone seen that before?
If no, if a friendly developper could implement that, it would be awesome!
It would help a lot when juggling with different apps in different contexts lasting a given time.
up
Anyone interested in that hack ?
I have rephrased my idea realizing that it was not clear enough in my original post. Could some of you guys give me a feedback on that?
I think it could be really helpful especially with the different browsers avalaible and the various features they each offer.
Let me know, even if you think it's useless...
The closest thing I have ever found is Smart Browser Chooser.
It isn't exactly what you've suggested, but it lets you assign different browsers based on network connection.
I'm not a developer, but from what I can tell, in order to make something that works like you have suggested, the entire default action chooser would have to be replaced.
Or, as an alternative, a new "default action" program could be created, similar to Smart Browser Chooser, that would be the actual default you would choose for whatever context you want. When this program is ran, it would list the options in the way you have indicated. However, as far as I can see, this new program would have to be written specifically for each android context.
Thanks for your answer!
This could do the trick, I'll try your app and see how it turns out. Though I suspect it's not as flexible as what I expected.
I would still fancy an overlying app on top of default app selection to achieve temporary default (excellent idea!). If anyone ever step by something like that, let me know
Is there any way to access core Android functions like app switching (holding down the Home button for a few seconds), to be used in other contexts? Similar to how you can access Activities from the apps installed and use them as Shortcuts.
What I'd like to do is this:
press Home -> bring up app switching interface
long-press Home -> go to Home screen
Basically I want to reverse the two functions that short and long pressing the Home button does.
If not that, I'm also interested in being able to access the "app switching interface" via a Shortcut (like a Shortcut you place on your Home screen), or via an app.
For example, you can long-press on the Home screen and add a Shortcut (different than adding a shortcut to an App) which basically includes various context functions of some of the apps you have installed. I want to be able to do this - add a Shortcut - in which the Shortcut I add launches the "app switching interface" that you normally get by long-pressing the Home button. That way I can put that Shortcut in Wavelauncher or wherever else I want to be able to app switch without the annoyance of having to long-press something.
Maybe this kind of thing requires root and hacking, but that's why I'm here! I'd be grateful for any advice and help; thank you!
As far as I know you'll need a custom rom like cyanogenmod or aokp to do things like that.Being able to do that in a stock rom would compose of alot of work within the framework-res.apk, systemUI.APK, and button maps. To flash a custom rom require root and clockworkmod. I want to help you but first what type of device do you have?
eugeneeaster18 said:
As far as I know you'll need a custom rom like cyanogenmod or aokp to do things like that.Being able to do that in a stock rom would compose of alot of work within the framework-res.apk, systemUI.APK, and button maps. To flash a custom rom require root and clockworkmod. I want to help you but first what type of device do you have?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll be getting my new LG Optimus G Pro in a few days. I was hoping, if I can't reverse the functionality on the Home button, that I could maybe assign the "app switching interface" to the programmable button on the side. Thanks for helping out by the way.
Is your device rooted? Also thank me with the button
eugeneeaster18 said:
Is your device rooted? Also thank me with the button
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have it yet, but I would be willing to root it. I'm using my good ol' GS2 Skyrocket for the next few days until it arrives.
Well I have my Optimus G Pro and I've been using it for a few days. I saw an app by the makers of Tasker that allows you to build your own app. Could I possibly use that to accomplish what I want (build an app whose function is to show the "app switching interface" )? Or would I really need to root it (and if so, what then?)?
I post here because I think my problem is a common android problem...excuse me for my bad english, I hope you understand my exposition.
In my tablet Note 10.1 I have installed some different browsers because I'm evalueting which is the best, now I'm using one that for convenience we will name AA.
So, whenever I tap on a link and appears a window with the list of browser I tap on AA and appearss the classic window that says "complete action using" and after "just this once / always" I tap on "always" . Afterwords if I try to open a link appears again the same message "complete action using" I also went into the application manager and I deleted the value "delete default" by all browsers.
The same thing happens to me if I open a pdf or excel file.
What can you tell me about?
Thanks
gulluwing said:
I post here because I think my problem is a common android problem...excuse me for my bad english, I hope you understand my exposition.
In my tablet Note 10.1 I have installed some different browsers because I'm evalueting which is the best, now I'm using one that for convenience we will name AA.
So, whenever I tap on a link and appears a window with the list of browser I tap on AA and appearss the classic window that says "complete action using" and after "just this once / always" I tap on "always" . Afterwords if I try to open a link appears again the same message "complete action using" I also went into the application manager and I deleted the value "delete default" by all browsers.
The same thing happens to me if I open a pdf or excel file.
What can you tell me about?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
delete the unused browsers from the system
is it the only way to solve my problem?
thanks
Vaibhav Chauhan said:
delete the unused browsers from the system
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
gulluwing said:
is it the only way to solve my problem?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
in my way
but take a backup before deleting anything
Post any Tips and Tricks you may know of for the Sony Z3v D6708 model.
I f the phone won't shut down or gets stuck -- open Sim card door, press the off button hidden there (above Sim slot) to shut down phone with a small object, something not sharp.
Settings -> Wi-Fi -> Advanced -> Toggle everything off by "Wi-Fi Optimization.
Turn on NFC and Bluetooth only when needed as it drains battery.
Now my list of apps I've disabled...
Amazon
Amazon app suite
Amazon Kindle
Amazon Music
Amazon Appstore
Audible
Black Hole
Bubbles
Caller ID
Cloud
Enchanted Forest
FamilyBase Companion
Gmail (I use Cloudmagic)
Google Korean Keyboard (include Chinese if you don't use Chinese either)
Google Play Books
Google Play Games
Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Music
Google Play Newsstand
IMDb
Isis Wallet
Message+
My Infozone
News & Weather
NFL Mobile
Phase Beam
Pico TTS
Podcast
Slacker Radio
TalkBack
TV Launcher
Verizon Location Agent
Verizon Support & Protection
VZ Navigator
Wikipedia Extension
Wireless Emergency Alerts
Xperia Social Engine Sharing
Xperia with Twitter
Youtube karaoke extension
I'd disable the Email app, but there were frequent popups telling me is crashes. So I just leave it enabled. This as as far as I can think on the top of my head. xP
GigaSPX said:
Now my list of apps I've disabled...
Amazon
Amazon app suite
Snip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can we get a thread started dedicated to finding the apps safe to disable? This list is a good start for that.
Isn't the verizon locator agent the cell network location system? Or is it purely spyware...
Wish I knew what some of those more obscure apps actually did.
Marine6680 said:
Can we get a thread started dedicated to finding the apps safe to disable? This list is a good start for that.
Isn't the verizon locator agent the cell network location system? Or is it purely spyware...
Wish I knew what some of those more obscure apps actually did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seconded on the locator agent, among other nebulous apps.
Maybe killing Wireless Emergency Alerts isn't a great idea? Those are the weather, amber, and presidential emergency notifications.
I've already disabled most of them, I wasn't really sure what else I could disable without screwing something up. Thanks for the list, I will do more tonight.
Sent from my ghost white Z3!
Marine6680 said:
Can we get a thread started dedicated to finding the apps safe to disable? This list is a good start for that.
Isn't the verizon locator agent the cell network location system? Or is it purely spyware...
Wish I knew what some of those more obscure apps actually did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could go ahead and open up another thread since we're now free to post more to expand this new forum of ours.
Stormwing said:
Seconded on the locator agent, among other nebulous apps.
Maybe killing Wireless Emergency Alerts isn't a great idea? Those are the weather, amber, and presidential emergency notifications.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eh, when there's a giant tornado coming, I'm pretty sure I'll know what's coming when I see one. LOL
Jk, the real reason is the Amber alerts. Several times I've been alerted for a situation that occurs in a driving distance that's 6-8 hours away from me at 3 in the morning. What kind of BS is this? >_>
GigaSPX said:
I could go ahead and open up another thread since we're now free to post more to expand this new forum of ours.
Eh, when there's a giant tornado coming, I'm pretty sure I'll know what's coming when I see one. LOL
Jk, the real reason is the Amber alerts. Several times I've been alerted for a situation that occurs in a driving distance that's 6-8 hours away from me at 3 in the morning. What kind of BS is this? >_>
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can disable amber alerts in the wireless emergency app.
If anyone else wants to know, our phones can do double tap to wake the screen to reduce wear on the power button. A feature most phones have to get root to add.
And if anyone is taking underwater photography, don't forget to enable No Touch to prevent the screen from spazzing out during your shoots.
Copy number from phone log
Copying number from log is a two step process here. Long press and choose "edit before call" then you can copy it
Try the slow speech effect in call settings. It's amazing tech and sometimes really helpful when dealing with people that talk too fast. There is an article about it here...
http://www.androidheadlines.com/201...low-talk-feature-slow-speech-voice-calls.html
Sent from my D6708 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Starting the camera app from the short cut options (camera key or from lock screen) resets any setting or mode that was previously active. To keep your settings active don't use these shortcuts.
nateperro said:
Starting the camera app from the short cut options (camera key or from lock screen) resets any setting or mode that was previously active. To keep your settings active don't use these shortcuts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice tip! I've noticed it always starts one way or another depending where I'm coming from. Right now I'm seeing there's about 4 ways to activate camera.
1. From physical shutter button
2. From lockscreen
3. From Camera app in app drawer or home screen
4. From the Camera widget (not including the other downloaded camera features)
Obviously 1 and 2 is advised not to reset, but the latter two is then what you should use to activate the previous settings.
GigaSPX said:
Nice tip! I've noticed it always starts one way or another depending where I'm coming from. Right now I'm seeing there's about 4 ways to activate camera.
1. From physical shutter button
2. From lockscreen
3. From Camera app in app drawer or home screen
4. From the Camera widget (not including the other downloaded camera features)
Obviously 1 and 2 is advised not to reset, but the latter two is then what you should use to activate the previous settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that I understand this camera feature I actually find it useful. Sometimes I want to fire off a quick shot using the short cut to start the camera in SA (superior auto mode) as I don't have time to check settings. Other times it takes a double tap unlock and then selection of the camera app to keep previous settings when I know I have time to think about the shot. [emoji4]
Power the Device Up in Safe Mode - Sony Xperia® Z3v
[Device-Specific Instructions]
Safe Mode puts your phone in a diagnostic state (returned to default settings) so you can determine if a third-party app is causing your device to freeze/reset / run slow. Our Troubleshooting Assistant can help you with other device issues if you aren't currently using the tool.
An alternate method is available if the device can be powered on and is responsive.
With the device powered off, simultaneously press and hold the Power button and the Volume down button (located on the right edge of the device ) until the Sony screen appears then release.
From the System Recovery screen, select Safe mode.
Note Utilize the Volume buttons to navigate and the Power button to select.
Note Allow approximately 1 minute for the device to reboot.
Note Once rebooted, 'Safe mode' appears in the lower-left corner of the screen.
Note Notes:
With Safe Mode enabled, test device and app functionality. If the previous issue fails to occur, the cause has been isolated to a third-party app and all recently installed or updated apps should be uninstalled.
Power cycle device to disable Safe Mode then reinstall and test each app one at a time to identify which app is causing the problem
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Clearing an Application's Cache / Data:
NOTE: Assuming that one of your applications isn't working properly then you may be able to fix this by clearing the app's cache or data. WARNING! Clearing an application's data will result in the removal of all personal information stored within the app. This includes login and credit card information, profiles, saved games, settings, high scores etc. It's recommended that you first try clearing the cache in order to prevent unwanted file deletion.
Tap "Apps" while viewing the home screen
Access the "Settings" menu and scroll to "Device"
Tap "Apps" and access the "All" or "Downloaded" screens
Select the desired application and tap "Clear cache"
If the method above didn’t help, tap "Clear data" too and press "OK" to confirm
Clearing the Phone's Cache Partition:
NOTE: In case your smartphone is not working as intended, it crashes, freezes etc. then you may consider master resetting it. However, you can also try solving these problems without losing personal data caused by a factory reset. To do so, try clearing the phone's cache partition as explained below:
With your smartphone turned on, press and hold the "Power" and "Volume Up" buttons
Wait for the screen to turn off and for the smartphone to vibrate three times
Once that's done, release all buttons
The cache partition should now be wiped. Press the "Power" key to turn on the smartphone as you normally would
NOTE: If clearing the phone's cache partition hasn't solved the problem, then you might want to master reset your phone. To learn how you can master reset the Sony Xperia Z3V, click the link
Enter Safe Mode and Uninstall an App:
NOTE: If you've installed an application that causes issues on your phone and prevents you from removing it as it runs processes in the background, then you can easily dispose of the app by first rebooting your phone in safe mode. In this mode, all third party applications are disabled.
With your smartphone turned on, press and hold the "Power" button
Tap and hold the "Power off" option
At the Safe Mode prompt, tap "OK" and wait for your smartphone to reboot
Once your phone restarts, a "Safe Mode" message should be present in the lower-left corner of the screen
To remove an app, tap "Apps" while viewing the home screen
Go to "Settings"
Swipe to "Device" and tap "Apps"
Scroll to the "Downloaded" screen and select the application you wish to remove
Tap "Uninstall" and press "OK" to confirm
Read more: http://verizonforums.com/threads/so...che-reboot-in-safe-mode.363259/#ixzz3PUePFP00
In case of emergency when your phone freezes and all else is unresponsive
A couple days ago, I was playing asphalt 8 and my phone froze when I tried exiting the game. My power button just pinged the notification ringtone, my camera button played the Cybershot sound but didn't change screen, and I couldn't pick up calls despite my ringtone playing. I thought my last resort somehow was to either wait for the phone to die (sure, waiting 2-3 days is definitely an option here due to battery life greatness, pfft) or use Android Device Manager and factory reset.
Unfortunately I went with the latter and then found out this one incredible tip: a hard reset button. I never knew such a thing existed for our phones and I would like to inform all new users of it too. This is thanks to @jhwookie for the info.
Tlr, there's a slightly brown button found inside the SIM compartment. Grab something such as a toothpick to press and hold onto the button for a few seconds, and voila. The phone will be hard reset to where you were previously.
GigaSPX said:
A couple days ago, I was playing asphalt 8 and my phone froze when I tried exiting the game. My power button just pinged the notification ringtone, my camera button played the Cybershot sound but didn't change screen, and I couldn't pick up calls despite my ringtone playing. I thought my last resort somehow was to either wait for the phone to die (sure, waiting 2-3 days is definitely an option here due to battery life greatness, pfft) or use Android Device Manager and factory reset.
Unfortunately I went with the latter and then found out this one incredible tip: a hard reset button. I never knew such a thing existed for our phones and I would like to inform all new users of it too. This is thanks to @jhwookie for the info.
Tlr, there's a slightly brown button found inside the SIM compartment. Grab something such as a toothpick to press and hold onto the button for a few seconds, and voila. The phone will be hard reset to where you were previously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for elaborating further I had mentioned this in OG post.
To make the phone appear faster go to Settings>System>About phone>tap Build number several times till you get Developer options>Drawing>Window animation scale>off,Transition animation scale>off, Animation duration scale>off, x1 is default and x.5 works well too, I prefer "off", don't like animations.
YMMV
1linuxfreak said:
To make the phone appear faster go to Settings>System>About phone>tap Build number several times till you get Developer options>Drawing>Window animation scale>off,Transition animation scale>off, Animation duration scale>off, x1 is default and x.5 works well too, I prefer "off", don't like animations.
YMMV
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THat's good advice for most devices. Smooths out the transitions.
If you guys go into Settings -> Data Usage, you can see which apps is draining the most data. If you want to restrict its background data, select the specified app, and scroll to the bottom to enable the checkbox.
If any of you guys have Snapchat installed, I highly recommend it since it's been noted it takes way too much data since its January 27th update.
Creating new folders in Sony Album
I find that Album isn't completely intuitive when it comes to creating a new Folder to help organize all your pictures. Here's how:
1. From the Album app, swipe from the left side of the screen to open the menu and select "Folders"
2. Open the folder where the picture is currently
3. Find the photo you want to move and long press on it
4. Click on the menu button on the top right of the screen (3 dots), then select "Move to"
5. Click on the plus (+) on the top bar to create a new Folder
6. Name your new Folder and select whether you want it on the SD Card or in Internal Memory