Now I'm completely sure that this thread isn't quite the sort of thing that's intended for this Development forum but in this case I'd like you to make an exception as it's intention is for future development and I'm seeking the input from the current great bunch of developers that we have.
I wouldn't mind having an attempt at putting together my own ROM or at least hacking an existing close to stock ROM and making it my own, I have no plans to release my creation to the mass market (if I ever get that far) but, just want to go through the process in order to give me a better understanding of how it all hangs together so that I can put more into the community and assist more in this section and not just the general one with basic problems.
Any pointers that anyione can give will be gratefully appreciated.
I'm not seeking to build a thin Senseless ROM as there are are already some fine examples of these already (MIUI and CM etc), as I'm new to Android and have come here from Windows Mobile so I've already made HTC my choice mainly as I like Sense its functionality, integration, even though I do believe it could be slimmed downed by a decent degree and loose many unnecessary components and elements from the start. I'd also like to only build a WWE ROM as it would be intended for just my use.
As you may know already or can see from signature (or my many previous posts) my current favorite custom ROM is LBC so I'd like to have a go at creating my own version of something similar, I'll probably only end up using LBC still as my daily ROM as I've loved it since I first moved to it and have no intention of going elsewhere.
I have JDK and ADK installed on both my PC's, I've been a programmer although quite some years ago, but, still have a reasonable amount of IT knowledge and still work in a IT related job. So configuration, UNIX scripting etc isn't a problem although Java programming may well be!
Just looking for some basic pointers even if they are to websites or resource threads here in XDA for further reading. Many thanks for all the pointers offered and any time spent helping me, I'm also sure that anything you guys put together will then prove useful for others if they are in my position.
I've also very recently just done my back in and am suffering from awful sciatica, so can see myself spending some time off work, bizarrely sitting at the computer on certain chairs for medium lengths of times, is one of the few things that I can do without experiencing much pain, so I'm trying to keep my self busy, amused and avoid (further) insanity so this seemed like the best option!
Thanks in advance (again) I appreciate that the people in this forum are exceptionally busy, what with their own life's, their families, their jobs not to mention their relentless dedication to the cause that is Desire S ROM porting and development!
You need first to set up a Linux environment.
1. For personal use, and only for modding, I recommend you installing Cygwin if you are a Windows user.
2. Download Dsixda Kitchen and follow the steps from there.
3. Get a copy of your favourite ROM, or a base of your ROM in a .zip format.
4. Modify it, tweak it, zip it again and enjoy !
If you have any more questions, I am here to answer them.
badeaioan said:
You need first to set up a Linux environment.
1. For personal use, and only for modding, I recommend you installing Cygwin if you are a Windows user.
2. Download Dsixda Kitchen and follow the steps from there.
3. Get a copy of your favourite ROM, or a base of your ROM in a .zip format.
4. Modify it, tweak it, zip it again and enjoy !
If you have any more questions, I am here to answer them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Genuine Question: (Not one of those how fast is your PC ones?....But)
At home I have a very new i7 laptop running windows 7 - 64 and a just under ten year old dual Xeon based workstation still running XP both with 8Gb. which of the two would be the best base O/S machine for creating the linux environment on? I imagine that the new laptop will have much fast CPUs but the workstation has many more faster SCSI disks. Although both have NAS available storage.
It doesn't matter. It's your choice. For example I have only Win7 32-bit both on PC and Notebook. I also have native Ubuntu on Notebook as a dual boot, but I use it only on modifying apps.
I never used the kitchen to make own rom, but its the fast way
and you can run linux on a virtual machine if you want
superkid said:
I never used the kitchen to make own rom, but its the fast way
and you can run linux on a virtual machine if you want
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd seriously appreciate a LINK to a linux disto VM that I could download and get started with. As I'm currently starting with an empty page!?
What O/S or linux flavour/distro do the other chiefs use (a URL or link would be magic)?
LBC?
MaryLandCookie
proxuser?
superkid?
NeoLojik?
(dont feel bad if I missed you out - we've finally too many Cooks to remember!)
etc
As always any assistance much appreciated.
and regarding the Development INDEX thread -I've heard back from the MOD but am still awaiting him to action the change of owner for the thread. SO post any needed updates or ideas into the thread and I'll action them as soon as I can!
Ben, start with this, you won't need anything else for personal use: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=633246
You will find out here how to set up Cygwin and everything else you need.
Virtual machine here
Linux distro
Use with dsixda's kitchen, you can't go wrong. Although I prefer dual boot.
lol i use debian, but i dont have a vm
superkid said:
lol i use debian, but i dont have a vm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't use vm myself, but for those not wanting to make big system changes a vm is a good way to go. Never did like cygwin either, but its all about personal preferences I guess
Sent from my HTC Desire S
ben_pyett said:
Now I'm completely sure that this thread isn't quite the sort of thing that's intended for this Development forum but in this case I'd like you to make an exception as it's intention is for future development and I'm seeking the input from the current great bunch of developers that we have.
I wouldn't mind having an attempt at putting together my own ROM or at least hacking an existing close to stock ROM and making it my own, I have no plans to release my creation to the mass market (if I ever get that far) but, just want to go through the process in order to give me a better understanding of how it all hangs together so that I can put more into the community and assist more in this section and not just the general one with basic problems.
Any pointers that anyione can give will be gratefully appreciated.
I'm not seeking to build a thin Senseless ROM as there are are already some fine examples of these already (MIUI and CM etc), as I'm new to Android and have come here from Windows Mobile so I've already made HTC my choice mainly as I like Sense its functionality, integration, even though I do believe it could be slimmed downed by a decent degree and loose many unnecessary components and elements from the start. I'd also like to only build a WWE ROM as it would be intended for just my use.
As you may know already or can see from signature (or my many previous posts) my current favorite custom ROM is LBC so I'd like to have a go at creating my own version of something similar, I'll probably only end up using LBC still as my daily ROM as I've loved it since I first moved to it and have no intention of going elsewhere.
I have JDK and ADK installed on both my PC's, I've been a programmer although quite some years ago, but, still have a reasonable amount of IT knowledge and still work in a IT related job. So configuration, UNIX scripting etc isn't a problem although Java programming may well be!
Just looking for some basic pointers even if they are to websites or resource threads here in XDA for further reading. Many thanks for all the pointers offered and any time spent helping me, I'm also sure that anything you guys put together will then prove useful for others if they are in my position.
I've also very recently just done my back in and am suffering from awful sciatica, so can see myself spending some time off work, bizarrely sitting at the computer on certain chairs for medium lengths of times, is one of the few things that I can do without experiencing much pain, so I'm trying to keep my self busy, amused and avoid (further) insanity so this seemed like the best option!
Thanks in advance (again) I appreciate that the people in this forum are exceptionally busy, what with their own life's, their families, their jobs not to mention their relentless dedication to the cause that is Desire S ROM porting and development!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well in my opinion you are alone here because i dont know what the level here it is that anyone helps someone who dares to port a rom. Like i think i am from a specific country or dont know what only few are here who helps me in porting a rom otherwise all have a very good excuse that he is not ready to help anyone. I would like to mention the names who help me in porting the rom and they are mike1986 and one of his team members otherwise majority are here in a race to become number 1 in a specific forum etc. So brother try to see the above mentioned tutorial of how to port a sense rom and try yourself otherwise i had a bitter experience.
This is an excellent place to start, some excellent support from dsixda, dastin1015 among others.
Basically with their help I built my first AOSP ROM for the DS and further.
Well worth a look.
Peace
Just one thing, AOSP means compiled from cm or Google source. Actually it's not possible to compile from Google sources only from CM.
trismegistos said:
Just one thing, AOSP means compiled from cm or Google source. Actually it's not possible to compile from Google sources only from CM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android Open Source Project to me is google, without sense or any other "knobs". You can compile a pure rom from these sources, I produced one with help from members on other forums.
Getting it to work fully is another matter, lol.
It's definitely an easier route - but none less valid - to take a stock rom & tweak it with dsixda's excellent kitchen.
Sent from my HTC Desire S
Is there an easy way to change things like default wallpaper, desktop icons, widgets layout and so?
I've been reading and using kitchens but can't find the answer
fosco_ said:
Is there an easy way to change things like default wallpaper, desktop icons, widgets layout and so?
I've been reading and using kitchens but can't find the answer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try uot kitchen
http://uot.dakra.lt/
its quite easy to use
you can read this guide to get started
Recently I've been trying to teach myself how to develop for our phone, but I'm using a Mac. I have a Windows Partition, and can run Windows on my Mac, but it's a pain to have to restart just to use a single program for whatever it is that I need done. So I've done some research and thought it would be nice to share all the programs that I've found that help in Android Development.
It would also be nice if other Mac Users would share what they have found as well or what they use when trying to accomplish certain tasks when working with android. So here goes:
--Android SDK--
This is rather obvious…that being said you can download this from android.com. However, if you chose to install Eclipse I find installing the SDK from Android to be rather Redundant, if you agree go on and read the part about Eclipse.
--Wine/MacPorts/xCode--
First, sometimes it's useful to use Windows programs on Mac, and an one quick way to do that without having to reboot is with Wine. It takes a while to set up, but it is useful for running MOST executables. The last two programs you install as part of the tutorial, so follow on:
So here is the website I used to set up Wine: http://www.davidbaumgold.com/tutorials/wine-mac/
All of his instructions are accurate excluding where he talks about installing xCode. It is OK to install xCode through the App Store, all you have to do afterwards is install Command Line Tools. To do this:
1. Open xCode
2. Open Preferences (cmd+,)
3. Click the Downloads tab
4. Use the link to create an Apple Dev account
5. Click Command Line Tools
Now you can continue to follow the rest of the Tutorial
--Eclipse--
This program is useful for creating Android Applications on your phone. If you choose to install Eclipse I would follow this guide once you're done. I realize it is for creating Android Applications but it also explains how to set up a working environment.
So here is the website I used to set up Eclipse: http://www.vogella.de/articles/Android/article.html
I would start at section 5.1
Also Eclipse can be used for compiling .9.png files…I found a good tutorial for this on XDA: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=487001
Go hit damnitpud's thank meter if you find his thread useful
--APK Manager--
I found this tool extremely useful for pulling APK's and pushing them to your phone. This app can be used for Themeing apks, or editing the XML files.
I found this application on XDA as well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1285130
Go hit s0niq3's thanks button, maybe it'll convince her that people actually care about her program.
--android-utility or AU--
This little program looks to be extremely useful, I found it while searching for a way to compile .9.png files without having to use Eclipse. But it also has a host of other applications and uses. Make sure you read the thread thoroughly and follow all instructions.
I found this application on XDA as well: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1167623
Go hit tommytomatoe's thanks button as well, he gave us a marvelous little program. There is also a version for windows now, well at least part of it.
[For windows, and Linux Users: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1272513]
Go hit kakomalo's thanks button
If you download the version 1.0.1 and you try to compile a .9.png file, and you receive an error telling you that aapt is missing, all you have to do is drag and drop the aapt from the Android SDK into /android-utility/utility/
--xUlitimate--
I'm not sure if this one is worth mentioning for Mac, but it would be kinda cool if someone figured out how to get this to work with Wine…so here it is:
So here is its link: http://www.droidforums.net/forum/xeudoxus/47283-release-xultimate.html
This one has some theme tools. I found it specifically for the Draw9Patch Compiler, but I could not get it to work nicely with wine.
--Gimp--
This one is well known, so I don't think it needs much explanation…but it is image editing software.
Here is the download link if you don't already have it: http://gimp.lisanet.de/Website/Download.html
---Finally
After spending hours searching, downloading, and finding out what works I thought I would share to save someone else the expense of having to go through the trial and error. I would love it if other Mac Users, or any one else would share their knowledge on programs they use when working with Android; to theme, compile ROMs, or any other activity related to Android while pertaining to Mac.
Also, if you mess up your computer while doing this it is your own responsibility
Don't know why you haven't got any thanks for this, here's one from me for a very detailed and informative post. I am not a Mac user but thanks for your contribution.
Well I guess I just gave you your first thanks!
This post should be a little useful for Mac users... especially those that don't understand Unix.
Developing on Mac can be very similar to developing on Linux. Mac is just slightly more GUI oriented. Unix commands are the same, though.
So Linux users could use this guide as well!
EDIT: After I posted... I noticed 4 more users had thanked you as well... o-o that was fast
Haha oh thanks guys! After the first couple of days I thought my thread was going to get swallowed up. I'm starting to think that Mac Users are rare amongst Android developers. I do realize that other Unix OSs like Ubuntu are favored more, but sometimes it's a pain to run these back and forth. I've even tried to VM UBUNTU, but I had a problem getting the USB to interface with the program, whether it was how I sent it up, or the program itself I have no idea. So I went out looking for alternatives. There is always triple booting I suppose.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727
I'm use a Mac at my office, and not by choice. Thank you for this extremely helpful post!
Great guide for anyone who is looking to start developing for Android. Better yet, for people who need to get the jist of what is going on in UNIX!
Okay so basically, if you check out www.androlinux.com or search for youtube for ZedoMax, the guy has hacked ubuntu onto android.
I followed his instructions to a point, had to use rootstock to create a lucid kernel though (for lts). He provides four scripts, another file and an .IMG - I made mine.
Basically, documentation issues + a linux noob mean I cant find all the files it created on my phone, kill em all, and try again.
If somebody could take a look at the scripts and let me know what they think, I would be wholly appreciative!!
Also if anyone knows of a workaround to viewing the GUI over vnc thatd be awesome too!
Ps I know of the official version.. Thats not the solution im looking for.. As you can run apps directly in ubuntu im thinking of an interface app for it but thats another days tasking.
Sent from my LT18i using XDA
Some of the ported games use SDL for the Interface, maybe that is a way?
I'll bear this in mind - my Coursework atm is modding IOQuake3 Thanks dude
So is it easy as just editing XML files to Mod? For example media_profiles.xml has a bunch of camera related variables. If I just change those and reboot, is that going to change anything? I know it could screw up my phone, but I am going for tips and tricks on how to mess with Android.
I know how to code, and would like someone to maybe point me to a guide.
Thanks
When I say know how to code. I mean I know xml and SQL....some Java. Was going to see what I could do with Android and maybe help community if I can learn.
Thanks
Depends on what you're trying to do. You can modify the ROM's apk's by deodexing and extracting. Depending on what you want to do, you can either modify whatever xml files or jpegs or whatnot that are inside, or if the task requires it, decompile, mod and recompile the code with smali/baksmali. A program called apk manager is also pretty handy for modifying apks. You can modify certain aspects of the rom with simple shell scripts, like you would on any regular linux installation. And then there's system development that will require you to learn C. If you want to get into that sort of thing, there's a guide on http://developer.android.com that goes over how to grab the android source and compile it. You could try poking around the CM9 code for an example too, even better if you have a device to flash it to.
Actually, there's a pretty decent how-to-get-started guide written by an awesome chap in the Captivate forum:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=928955
I've been using crDroid for a few years now -- it's my preferred ROM.
Someone recently ported it to work on the Pixel 2 XL, which is honestly the only reason I bought the phone. Well that and its bootloader was easily unlockable and is CDMA capable (Verizon.. sigh.)
However, regardless of how one goes about doing it, the wallpaper won't change. It's a bug within the ROM and I'm wondering how I might be able to fix it myself without having to wait for the original poster to release an update -- I've got a lot of free time and this kind of stuff genuinely interests me.
I've got (albeit basic) experience with python, perl, batch and shell scripting, pretty limited knowledge with C++ but am familiar with system architectures and such though have no knowledge of using java or porting apps, that kind of thing. I'm thinking this issue is just a problem with how the wallpaper's linked when selected.. or just a simple permission issue.
I've gone through the process of extracting the payload.bin and the image files within, looked through a few files and their contents (specifically for *wall*) but don't see anything promising. Anyone have any ideas who might be able to help a newbie with this stuff? I see a lot of posts on how to extract apk contents and recompile, that sort of thing. But I'm .. honestly not sure what I'm looking for, or whether it's an app-specific issue or a system issue, you know?
Kudos in advance.