Easy: Top Custom Firmwares/Modwares? - General Questions and Answers

Unfortunately, I can't post yet in the other forums since I'm a scrub. So I'll start here.
I've decided to get the Samsung GS2 when it's released for AT&T here on the 18th (2 days). However, though I love Android stock firmware.... I love custom firmwares a tad more. They're just prettier to look at! (let alone easier to work with)
Easy question... Based on the opinion of people ALREADY USING recent custom firmwares, what would you suggest as the best/most compatible for the Sammy GS2?
Notes: My only experience with PHONE modding is switching my old Aria to CM6. Liked it much better than stock. I'm sure there is plenty of new stuff since the release of CM6 (did it when it was fairly new).
*I like fancy display touches, quick navigation, and full functionality (integrated process control, power options, etc.). Guessing most have all that anymore.​
Any that would argue I should stick with stock til the release of ICS in October/November? I could live til then..

If you want a custom ROM you should take a look at CM7 and MIUI.

Awesome! I was already considering CM7, but I really like the look of MIUI as well. Your signature took me straight to it. Thanks! I'll look into that!

Definetly CyanogenMod 7. The performance leap from the stock ROM is huge.

Related

MR2 Coming Soon

MR2 will be coming via OTA in the next couple of days MR2 has been through four different revisions and will be based on the 1.70.xx code. There are a number of fixes but the most important should be fixing the reboots and improving the 4G/3G transitions.
I know everyone is waiting for GB which is MR3, but it still needs some time. The good news is that it is being worked on it is already on its fifth SW revision.
Awesome. I can wait for GB no problem, I just want a fix for the reboots. I'm sick of my phone rebooting 5+ times a day, happy an update is coming soon.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA Premium App
OR... you could just scoot on over to the dev forum and pick yourself up a spiffy new rom built on MR2 which is quite solid and fast and will use the same or very similar radios to what will be in the OTA. I tried a couple of them. They are spartan on fancy stuff, but they are reliable if nothing else. Possibly the most functional and reliable roms over there.
Why does someone always have to pop intro threads like this and state the obvious. I'm sure everyone with a Thunderbolt that frequents these forums is aware that rooting and installing a custom rom is an option. Some people have their reasons for wanting to stay stock.
I for one am still stock because this is the first phone I've had in quite a while that the stock rom is quite good. I spent a long time on WinMo, so I am used to custom roms just the make the device functional. Right now custom roms on the TB are mostly just different, not necessarily a huge need to me (GB roms are debatable on this point).
Once the custom roms offer something I want that I can't get from stock (and mature a bit more), I'm sure I'll root and rom. For now I'm enjoying stock stability and a working camera. Just because someone can do something doesn't make it something they need to do.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt
animez said:
Why does someone always have to pop intro threads like this and state the obvious. I'm sure everyone with a Thunderbolt that frequents these forums is aware that rooting and installing a custom rom is an option. Some people have their reasons for wanting to stay stock.
I for one am still stock because this is the first phone I've had in quite a while that the stock rom is quite good. I spent a long time on WinMo, so I am used to custom roms just the make the device functional. Right now custom roms on the TB are mostly just different, not necessarily a huge need to me (GB roms are debatable on this point).
Once the custom roms offer something I want that I can't get from stock (and mature a bit more), I'm sure I'll root and rom. For now I'm enjoying stock stability and a working camera. Just because someone can do something doesn't make it something they need to do.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thoughts exactly. Sure I would like to avoid the reboots (given I have had 2 in a 3 week period), and maybe a faster better radio, but the software and sense is so solid.
need bb said:
MR2 will be coming via OTA in the next couple of days MR2 has been through four different revisions and will be based on the 1.70.xx code. There are a number of fixes but the most important should be fixing the reboots and improving the 4G/3G transitions.
I know everyone is waiting for GB which is MR3, but it still needs some time. The good news is that it is being worked on it is already on its fifth SW revision.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you get this info?
dcjamies said:
Where did you get this info?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flawed info at that. But anyway
The OP history suggests that assumptions and rumors have been listened to and taken as gospel.
animez said:
Why does someone always have to pop intro threads like this and state the obvious. I'm sure everyone with a Thunderbolt that frequents these forums is aware that rooting and installing a custom rom is an option. Some people have their reasons for wanting to stay stock.
I for one am still stock because this is the first phone I've had in quite a while that the stock rom is quite good. I spent a long time on WinMo, so I am used to custom roms just the make the device functional. Right now custom roms on the TB are mostly just different, not necessarily a huge need to me (GB roms are debatable on this point).
Once the custom roms offer something I want that I can't get from stock (and mature a bit more), I'm sure I'll root and rom. For now I'm enjoying stock stability and a working camera. Just because someone can do something doesn't make it something they need to do.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bingo.. agreed 100%
Coming from HTC devices like the 8525, ATT Tilt, and Touch Pro 2, Ive just about had my share of ROMs for a lifetime. I just want something that works. After paying all this money, Im gonna let Verizon and HTC do what they're supposed to do.
animez said:
Why does someone always have to pop intro threads like this and state the obvious. I'm sure everyone with a Thunderbolt that frequents these forums is aware that rooting and installing a custom rom is an option. Some people have their reasons for wanting to stay stock.
I for one am still stock because this is the first phone I've had in quite a while that the stock rom is quite good. I spent a long time on WinMo, so I am used to custom roms just the make the device functional. Right now custom roms on the TB are mostly just different, not necessarily a huge need to me (GB roms are debatable on this point).
Once the custom roms offer something I want that I can't get from stock (and mature a bit more), I'm sure I'll root and rom. For now I'm enjoying stock stability and a working camera. Just because someone can do something doesn't make it something they need to do.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with wanting an official update, but the stock rom is far from good. Yes the speed is good but the battery life is horrible. With custom roms I have been able to triple my battery life and limit the random reboots I was getting stock, along with the already good speed being improved. Das BAMF Stripped 1.8
animez said:
Why does someone always have to pop intro threads like this and state the obvious. I'm sure everyone with a Thunderbolt that frequents these forums is aware that rooting and installing a custom rom is an option. Some people have their reasons for wanting to stay stock.
I for one am still stock because this is the first phone I've had in quite a while that the stock rom is quite good. I spent a long time on WinMo, so I am used to custom roms just the make the device functional. Right now custom roms on the TB are mostly just different, not necessarily a huge need to me (GB roms are debatable on this point).
Once the custom roms offer something I want that I can't get from stock (and mature a bit more), I'm sure I'll root and rom. For now I'm enjoying stock stability and a working camera. Just because someone can do something doesn't make it something they need to do.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agreed. So far only 1 reboot in 2 weeks (apparently that is good) and I get occasional instances where home button doesn't want to work.
I just wish the damn thing rebooted faster. It takes almost 2 minutes to boot, then another couple of minutes before sense is responsive.
Coming from the hd7 and 25 second boot times, this is killer...
I also made/used custom roms on my q9c, tp2 and hd2, but want to give stock a chance. Maybe I will root if I decide I need to tether, but so far, things are looking good stock.
Pushed to mid July
Lol enjoy stock
crazyhtown said:
Pushed to mid July
Lol enjoy stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
alot of us are. thanks for your concern.
adrynalyne said:
Flawed info at that. But anyway
The OP history suggests that assumptions and rumors have been listened to and taken as gospel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But I read it on the internet, so that has to make it true.
mr2.5 is treating me well and ive had zero reboots. i can wait a bit for the new radio.
crazyhtown said:
Pushed to mid July
Lol enjoy stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
#1 how do you know it's been pushed back?
#2 i think most on here and happily enjoying gingerbread but thanks for the concern.
Some documents state we will be getting a removal of free mobile hotspot via ota July 6th . Maybe it will be attached to the update .
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
Both the MR2 and the MR2.5 have been a good temporary fix for me, until a new radio is released.
Crazyhtown = Lol enjoy stock[/QUOTE said:
Not really called for man. Stock, Ropoted Stock Or GB, Does it really matter, lets just help each other instead of some acting like they are better because you are on something besides stock.
Stock runs very well and so do the roms the devs are busting their butts to put out, still doesn't mean we have to knock each other...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"mr2" we leaked on the forums is NOT mr2. 1.66/1.67/1.68/1.69 will not be MR2.
I can confirm OP's comments on the current "mr2" candidate version number, and give a approximate release of july 6th. With verizon things are given to change, the release date can change, so can the version being released.
Jrocker23 said:
Not really called for man. Stock, Ropoted Stock Or GB, Does it really matter, lets just help each other instead of some acting like they are better because you are on something besides stock.
Stock runs very well and so do the roms the devs are busting their butts to put out, still doesn't mean we have to knock each other...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
His comment was pretty blunt/unhelpful and rude, but there does tend to be some complaining from those that want to have their cake (those that don't want to root) and eat it too (still want updates/workarounds as quick as those that have root).
Those that seem to be frustrated by such things, perhaps android is not the phone for them or at least android phones that are not officially blessed by google (nexus phones).

[Q] Looking for help choosing a ROM

Thanks in advance for any help you fine chaps may (or may not!) provide.
Been lurking for quite a while. My brother rooted and put Cyanogen on my MyTouch3G about a year ago, and now that I'm on Senny for 60 days, I've about had it with the clutter and bloatware that came with the phone.
What I'm looking for:
- A sleek, sexy look. This will probably involve installing the ICS theme at some point.
- Minimalist. Seriously. I use like 20-25 apps. Maybe. If I don't use it, get it the hell off my phone.
- Good Camera. My phone is my social line. I take pictures of my cat, record idiots in the parking lot, and use it like a mirror all the frakkin time.
- Good Performance. Shouldn't need to be stated on a forum like this, but yes.
- Good Battery Life. Alas, the Stock Battery life has much to be desired of on the Sensation, but much can be fixed through a 1730 battery and judicious Modding.
What I'm not Looking for:
- The 2009 Android Look. Seriously. We're beyond that. Lockscreen Widgets, beautiful status bars, I need it, I want it. It's why I pay for a nice phone.
- So Barebones that I have to call a Bishop and pray to 7 saints in order to find settings or get to commonly used features.
Unfortunately, I think I'm going to have to part ways with HTC Sense. It's certainly a beautiful program. (I love the lock ring. I've embraced it and loved it since the first day. Goodbye, ring.) Unfortunately, many of you claim (and some others yet prove) that the Sense is a leech upon the Android system and needs to be purged. Up onto the altar now Sense. Yes. You. Shoo. Time for the sacrifice.
With that in mind, I've been recommended to use:
Reverted (The expansion on Xboarder's Mod). Looks interesting enough to try.
On the forums I've seen and have interest in:
HyperSensation
Cyanogen7 Basic
The drawbacks to the first is that it's still pretty deep in development it seems (Reverted, despite Xboarder's being pretty complete.) I also have heard that ADW Launcher has issues on it.
I'm intrigued by HyperSensation, but am not too keen on the theming styles for it.
I have experience with Cyanogen, but again, it's just the base that most people work from. Not the best necessarily, but stable and reliable.
Does anyone have any recommendations, thoughts, or advice, regarding a ROM that may suit my interests, or thoughts to persuade or dissuade me from my current three interests? I do this mostly to save time - I work in Retail at the moment, and being the Christmas season, I have little time to be fiddling around every night installing a different ROM.
Last, but not least. If I do find myself having to install different ROM's repeatedly, what's the best way to backup and restore my essential data between wipes? Can Titanium Free do everything I need?
Many thanks again, ladies, gentlemen, and newly self aware mechanical constructs!
I'd love to recommend one of the Sense ROMs but you said you are done with them. Perhaps a half-way point is to install one and then "de-sense" it. You get some of the better parts of things but have a lighter look and feel. In the dev section there are a number of ways to lighten the ROMs or you could just start flashing things like crazy Sense or not and see what sticks. I have two HTC Sensation 4Gs thanks to a mistake with tmobile so one runs CM7 alpha 10 and the other is now running InsertCoin (today). I've pretty much given in to the fact that the very first app I install is titanium backup and then I restore my apps. I also do nandroid backups very often so I have a known place to get back to.
My advice fwiw. Just start flashing, testing, removing, re-installing. Just go crazy with the new Sense ROMs and CM7. Something will stick unless you are like some of the rest of us and just want to flash things at some regular pace
I do like some of the Sense ROMs though. The Energy Sense ROM is very nice and I like Insert Coin and ARHD quite a bit. CM7 wins me over though and I still have a G2/Vision phone which has a CM7 nightly on it which I swap the simcard to every so often because I like that phone too.
Give 'em all a try and then come back in some days or a week. Then all of the developers will release new stuff. Its an agonizing circle of downloading, reading, fixing, wishing.
And I enjoy every minute of it.
I suppose my next question would be, what is the limit to which I can Mod an existing ROM.
Say for instance I wanted to use basic CM7 or Reverted's Mod, but install Amaze Cam, a new SMS Mod, and an ICS theme on top of that.
Is that possible? Or would it change the ROM / make it unusable?
I highly suggest Coredroid 2.7 That's what i have and it has the looks that no other rom has.. it's fast and isn't overloaded.. It's a beauty.. Atleast go look at it =D http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1195902
I don't believe you can have the Amaze Cam without Sense and it's worth noting that CM7 on Sensation is reported to have some camera issues (which can perhaps be eased with different cam mods/apps). I can't verify this, although I use CM7 and like it very much, I've never once used the camera, it's simply not one of the features I really need on my handheld.
If you want "the most toys" but without the sense bloat, you are probably best getting one of the Sense based ROMs that has a lot of the sense interface removed. ARHD is highly used and comes well recommended, so you could try that.
See http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1098849 and look for post #4 for the de-sensed version.
Is it possible to theme Sense-based ROM's to look like ICS at all?
Edit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=19451428
Is there any reason that Theme from Desire wouldn't work on Sensation?
Tromador said:
I don't believe you can have the Amaze Cam without Sense and it's worth noting that CM7 on Sensation is reported to have some camera issues (which can perhaps be eased with different cam mods/apps). I can't verify this, although I use CM7 and like it very much, I've never once used the camera, it's simply not one of the features I really need on my handheld.
If you want "the most toys" but without the sense bloat, you are probably best getting one of the Sense based ROMs that has a lot of the sense interface removed. ARHD is highly used and comes well recommended, so you could try that.
See http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1098849 and look for post #4 for the de-sensed version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would echo the ARHD recommendation. You can kill of Sense if you like, but it is pretty clean even with it.
- Computerslayer
I jump back and forth between ARHD, InsertCoin and P3D, though less of that last one lately. They're all Sense-based, but you can rid yourself of many Sense things by just using a custom Launcher, like GoLauncher. That way you can still have a functional camera (likely an issue, I hear, in CM7), and keep the lock screen.
Also, I know you said Titanium Backup Free would do the job, but if you do fork over the $6 for the premium version, all the restore installs are silent... that is, you don't need to click "INSTALL" and "DONE" for each one. The apps and their data are installed in the background. It's the best $6 I've ever spent on an app.
Hm Reverted or any of the other CM-based builds sound like what you're looking for except for the camera part since they all use the ****ty aosp camera.
Miui is pretty solid, but Scott and TD are still working on porting the miui cam. But until then, it also has the ****ty aosp cam. But until ics becomes reality for us, this is what I'm waiting for.
In the meantime, I desensed AHRD with this script and it's actually pretty decent. Plus you get to keep the lockscreen and sense cam. If you really wanted an ics look, you could replace the included Launcher Pro with ICS Launcher. Don't get confused with the term "desense" though. Sense is still there. Scripts like these just get rid of Rosie and delete all of the HTC widgets and extras.

Are custom roms really better?

I want to start of by saying I mean no disrespect to all the devs/cooks here. I appreciate and love all of their hard work.
Now, after flashing countless amounts of roms/kernels and always having some type of problems like GPS, small mms, random force closes, etc. I went back to complelty stock and wow... My phone is smoother than I ever remembered. My data speeds seem a little faster and GPS locks on faster than ever. Battery life is a LITTLE worse than custom roms but I figure I spend less trying with the screen on trying to get stuff to work so it evens out.
Well I just thought I would share my experience. If you are like me ALWAYS trying to find the perfect Rom/kernel combo that just works, then try stock one more time. It just might surprise you
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using XDA App
Been reading alot about the whole process of rooting and flashing over the last few days, and I must say I join your conclusion somehow. Instead of seaching for minor improvement that sometimes set you back in other fields, why not just use the Stock options that the producer can stand by.
Even so I can totally understand the willingness to try and make a product better, and understanding it in the best possible way. That beeing said, I hope they still continue the great work with making custom roms to further push the limits of our device.
Hansge.
If you're happy with the factory ROM, then a custom one isn't necessarily better. One of the things I like about Android though is the freedom to use my phone the way I want to, and that includes custom ROMs if one better suits my requirements. It's all about choice.
most people simply want to remove the BLOAT that comes with stock roms so basically once you receive the opportunity to root you simply freeze the BLOAT with titanium backup and keep the stock rom. I personally like AOSP and most phones don't come with AOSP out of the box unless it's a Nexus so I always end up flashing a custom rom. But I can say that I was running CM7 on my Sensation and became sick of the browser freezes and I went back to stock for a few days and LOVED it eventhough I hate HTC Sense LOL it was just nice to have a phone in which EVERYTHING worked as
it was intended
I personally think a custom kernel has more influence on daily use then custom rom. The differnce between zram and no zram where huge for me on gingerbread.
Custom isn't for everyone
The stock ROMs are usually the best option for most users. Pretty much the same as any custom vs. stock situation. My co-worker is using a ROM that blocks all data usage except from the browser. He loves it. His battery lasts two days without effort and he doesn't miss a thing. Personally, I'd go nuts if that was the stock ROM, but it is good for him.
Have to agree that it's really about choice.
If the missing features are ones you never use then you haven't really lost anything.
I had my Sensation running on a custom ROM within hours of buying it and I've never looked back (though that may be to my disadvantage since I have no point of comparison).
xdacbibbs said:
The stock ROMs are usually the best option for most users. Pretty much the same as any custom vs. stock situation. My co-worker is using a ROM that blocks all data usage except from the browser. He loves it. His battery lasts two days without effort and he doesn't miss a thing. Personally, I'd go nuts if that was the stock ROM, but it is good for him.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could create a situation like that by rooting and setting up DroidWall.
I too agree with RestInPieces209.
Really love what the cookers here on xda are doing though!
Tried several custom roms and there always were a couple functions that weren't working properly. Now, since one week back on stock and S-on, most stable and complete rom there is. Eagerly waiting for ICS
if it wasnt for these roms... i would get to damn bored of my phone really quickly... would spend a lot of money buying a new phone as soon as im bored with it..
I can bare the small errors i get, fc etc.. as soon as its up to date, new improvements both visually and functionality. i mean, i got beats on my sensation (non XE) it looks good to have, but also better sound. I got original 1.5Ghz dual core instead of downclocked (by HTC) 1.2GHz... i still got approx 30-40hrs of battery. and thats good!
i can only praise custom roms! thanks devs!
edit:
HTC arent dumbasses themselfs - they know how to make a great phone. they make phones they think as many as possible would like - with all their criteria; stability, good battery, performance etc. By trying to fullfill everyones wishes, somethings are being sacrificed ( such as 1.5GHz for better battery).
Thats why custom roms exists, so you can adapt the phone to your needs...
I would agree with the OP so far in terms of my Sensation, but my previous phone (ZTE Blade) was MASSIVELY improved with custom ROMs.
Some people are obsessed with perpetually messing about with their toys, regardless of the benefits/hassles. Almost always men.
Also, I guess that as phones (fancy ones such as the Sensation) get fancier and faster, so the law of diminishing returns applies regarding tweaks.
It boils down to preference really. Installing roms from other phones or customized ones so you can enjoy the full experience of your phone is just a choice. Like I the stock rom on the Sensation but then they came out with the Sensation XE with beats audio and I love to listen quality music. So then that rom was perfect for me.. My .02 cents.
championadam said:
I would agree with the OP so far in terms of my Sensation, but my previous phone (ZTE Blade) was MASSIVELY improved with custom ROMs.
Some people are obsessed with perpetually messing about with their toys, regardless of the benefits/hassles. Almost always men.
Also, I guess that as phones (fancy ones such as the Sensation) get fancier and faster, so the law of diminishing returns applies regarding tweaks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. My old phones like the og droid, Eris, D2 global, etc were all improved with roms. But htc did a really good job on the sensation. After flashing the stock Rom and installing 2 ota updates that they have released it is smooth as butter. Even texting this message on my phone seems faster and more accurate than I ever remember.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using XDA App
Not to mention the legendary HD2... From boring windows 6.5 to android to windows 7.5 mango... That's when I got hooked
Sent from my PG41200 using XDA App
It honestly boils down to pure preference. Specifically for the Sensation, most people like custom ROMS because they hate HTC Sense. So they are willing to deal with FC's and less stable ROMS just so they can never see Sense again
Since I cannot stand the sense ui yes, custom romd are better. I have no issues with cyanogen mod. I suppose I could always use stock rooted and a custom launcher though.
Sent from my Incredible 2 using XDA App
Custom ROMS are basically for people that want something different on their phone. Stock ROMS are reliable, stable, and provide default phone usage. On the other hand, stock ROMS (depending on what the developer has done to it) can change the way things looks, are, feel, and work. Some also have the capability to make your battery life last longer than the stock ROM. Custom ROMS are better or suck compared to stock ROMS in their own ways. It's just up to you, to decide which ROM fits your needs and expectations. Developers have this thing called a changelog that lists EVERYTHING that they have tweaked, changed, or improved since they created the ROM. It's best to look at and read it, to see if you like what they did to it/changed, or what it makes your phone capable to do. To me, it's all about what you REALLY want on your phone and all about researching the custom ROMS.
Hope I helped even a little. PEACE!

[Q] Why did you install a custom ROM on your phone?

I'm curious to know why people actually spend the time on their phones and risk bricking and voiding the warranty on their phone to install the latest stable or beta ROM for their device. Is it because the stock ROM doesn't let you do your daily tasks? Or is it slow? Or is it buggy in some way?
For example, I have a HTC Desire. The reason why I installed custom roms was that I bought it second-hand with Oxygen (gingerbread 2.3.4) already pre-installed. It had some bugs as it was a beta version, but overall it was pretty good.
I then found Cyanogenmod 7.1, where I was able to get around the major issue of apps filling the tiny internal memory using scripts to put entire apps on the SD card. I was stoked, and it ran really well with no major issues. It felt like a new phone.
However, I just got my dad a HTC Desire HD, and it has the stock Sense 3.0 on there (Gingerbread 2.3.5). I was going to install Cyanogenmod, but now I'm wondering if it's truly worth the effort for a basic user.
So why do YOU install a custom ROM?
I install custom ROM's, Radios, Kernals, etc for one simple reason......
every Android phone that I have ever had the pleasure of tinkering with, works better when rooted and ROMmed. It truly gives you the customization that makes you feel like the phone belongs to and was built for YOU!!!
I have ics on all my phones
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
Simply to remove all the bloatware and removing sense. I love the pure android ICS experience. Also my phone flys faster without sense
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using XDA
johnnyb15613 said:
I install custom ROM's, Radios, Kernals, etc for one simple reason......
every Android phone that I have ever had the pleasure of tinkering with, works better when rooted and ROMmed. It truly gives you the customization that makes you feel like the phone belongs to and was built for YOU!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you know for sure? I'm the same, I just flash it without thinking, like I did with my new Samsung Galaxy S2 just a few days ago (ICS, woo!). I was just about the flash this HTC Desire HD and I thought hey... who knows, maybe stock ROMs are pretty good? Or are they generally rubbish?
Well, my D1 ran stock for two months before it got pimped, so I gave it a very thorough chance! My wifes Eris ran stock for four months until she was ready to throw it off a wall, so it got its fair chance too! Then she moved to a D2G, which ran exceptionally well out of the box, I was kind of upset that she didnt like her experience. It did however, run a lot smoother once root and Liberty was added! And now for our GNex's........I ran stock ICS for two weeks and I must truly say, this device doesn't need root or anything else to kick ass, it just does! However, the developer support is just too incredible, and when you add ICSourcery to a GNex, you'll know why it must be rooted and running that ROM!!!
To get rid of crap I didn't need.
$1 gets you a reply
well i have a GN, so bricking or wrecking it is low on the list, its so easy to root, unlock, flash. I love stock ICS, but I do like the extra features I get with CM9.
AOKP on my transformer prime? Dem features.
Sent from my tf9001 with XDA XD.
The main reason I rooted my phone and through a rom in there is to get the portable wifi for my tablet.
Reason: to learn more about Android phones, and to get rid of bloatware.
make my defy better than 2.1
make my defy fast and have the new software as moto wont do this for us!
still no full hwa but still better than stuck with 2.1
oh and get rid of 2.1 motoblur.... it was crap. the new one rocks but i cant put it on the defy.
BUT if i had an htc or just a sgs2 ics or other ultra super powered phone i would just root change launcher and stay stock!(unless cm9 it waay better like it is now)
in short i want minimalistic beautifull smooth android experience! most importantly fast!(iphone is smooth,not always, but sloooow)
defy running ics latest cm9
because roms are a whole world, it's not just performance or bugs, is the option to change to customize toggles, positions, color, overclock and every little part of you phone...
for example, the resurrection remix or any AOKP let you put calendar events on lockscreen, show wheather in a special panel in the statusbar, hide your battery icon and put a line to measure it, you can even put a navigation bar like nexus
... it's not just cool and waaaaaaay better than stock rom, it is although handy
To get rid of the bloat-ware on the stock firmware!
There is tons of reason to update to a custom ROM. The big deal for me was getting rid of the bloat, also having more features with CM7.
So I could have stock aosp OR sense 3.5. I like both, especially on the thunderbolt (similar to the HD) nothing seems to slow these phones down.
Sent from my ADR6400L
There are many reasons. For example, the phone looks, feels and works like i want.
And one more reason is, that the original software is not so perfect as the most users want.
Overflowing options. Change everything down to the boot image.And speed,and BATTERY TWEAKS!!!!
Sent from my $99 phone using Gingerbread 2.3.7 cause it's root
The reason why i'm using a custom rom is the phones OS feel more smooth and stable and all the bloatware from HTC,Samsung etc. were removed so the performance is much better
Please use the Q&A Forum for questions &
Read the Forum Rules Ref Posting
Moving to Q&A

What's the difference between all these ICS ROMs/ports?

I know. I can read. I have read OPs and most posts. I want to know what makes each ROM/port different. Each of them have almost same features and looks. I'm asking comparing CM9 vs Stock vs AOKP vs Slim vs Beam vs etc and cMIUI vs MIUI. I'm not complaining, just want people to share what make them choose one ROM over the other because all are smooth and fast and awesome and so on the same generic descriptions... Let's be honest, most of the has mainly same features, like to mod battery icon, clock, toggles, drawer, theme, lockscreen, some apps here and not there, different bootanimation, etc... you know what I mean. So what is it then? Please, elaborate some answers.
To me, there is a noticeable difference between all mentioned and RemICS and so with AOKPCB but mostly because of the theme/looks and some apps and few features.
I would like to read something else than just "X ROM is fast and smoother" and yes I know everyone is different so they get different experience with their ROM of choice, but what makes you choose a ROM over the other. That's the thing
No trolling allowed and it's not my intention to offend anyone. I appreciate all projects and stuff here, I'm not complaining. Just curious.
U can go to other forum like i9000 and nexus S and ask this question there, too ...they r just for your own choice lol, just flash one u like
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda premium
chris31jct said:
I know. I can read. I have read OPs and most posts. I want to know what makes each ROM/port different. Each of them have almost same features and looks. I'm asking comparing CM9 vs Stock vs AOKP vs Slim vs Beam vs etc and cMIUI vs MIUI. I'm not complaining, just want people to share what make them choose one ROM over the other because all are smooth and fast and awesome and so on the same generic descriptions... Let's be honest, most of the has mainly same features, like to mod battery icon, clock, toggles, drawer, theme, lockscreen, some apps here and not there, different bootanimation, etc... you know what I mean. So what is it then? Please, elaborate some answers.
To me, there is a noticeable difference between all mentioned and RemICS and so with AOKPCB but mostly because of the theme/looks and some apps and few features.
I would like to read something else than just "X ROM is fast and smoother" and yes I know everyone is different so they get different experience with their ROM of choice, but what makes you choose a ROM over the other. That's the thing
No trolling allowed and it's not my intention to offend anyone. I appreciate all projects and stuff here, I'm not complaining. Just curious.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They basically all come from the same base as far as Android OS goes, and as far as comparing no one can tell you what to choose. I know you are not asking for someone to choose for you, but that kinda is where the question leads. Compare them for yourself. See what you like. They all have their own flavor, mods, tweaks. Some are closer to stock, others are heavily modded. That's your answer in a nutshell. No one is gonna sit down and draw you up a chart of features for each rom.
@dao
I can ask there but that's not my phone and that doesn't answer my question. It's obvious they are there for choice, how to choose then? Why? That's what I would like to read. BTW, thanks for updating RemICS.
@greg
I have used them all. That's why I'm asking.
chris31jct said:
@dao
I can ask there but that's not my phone and that doesn't answer my question. It's obvious they are there for choice, how to choose then? Why? That's what I would like to read. BTW, thanks for updating RemICS.
@greg
I have used them all. That's why I'm asking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You just have to choose what you like and what works for you. It's that simple. Until Aries is released and we have an updated kernel, they are all about the same, but Aries will fix some issues. Like those blasted capacitive back lights timing out.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using xda premium
What made you choose miui for your phone? Did you try different ROMs before?
@HKSpeed
Oh, I haven't updated that... I'm on CM9 at the moment. My ROMs of choice are Team Acid's. I have been using their work since Froyo so I'm biased. I was on AOKP but battery was a big issue for me, it drained very fast, so I went on CM9 to see how it works since most other ROMs are based on it. Thought it should be more simple, less tweaked. I have tried all, except Linaro and Provision. I like them all but somehow I can't notice difference between them except but a few little things here and there.
I was on MIUI because Dao kept updating it and fast. It was more advanced than other ports/ROMs, then I went on AOKPBC just to see and the theme was too heavy, awesome but not what I was looking for.
I'm not saying I will stay on CM forever, might go on a flashing rampage sometime soon. I know these are WIP that depend on kernel so until then I shall keep experimenting.
I know the others have said pretty much the same thing I am saying, but it comes down to a matter of choice. The ICS roms are all CM9 base if I am not mistaken, so you are dealing with mostly the same issues and bugs on each, so it really comes down to a point of which theme you want and which apps/bloat you want. It becomes a real pain to have to debloat/rebloat a rom and I only ever do so if the theme and layout is custom and really nice but fun to use. If it's basically a stock rom and doesn't have typical apps/bloat/mods/tweaks that I am used to using, I hit the thanks button for the hard work that helps future devs have an easier time and keep looking for a rom that has everything I want. Right now, I am going to be selling my phone soon so I can get a SGS III at least, or maybe wait to see if the rumors are true and T-Mob gets the One X+. I'm drooling over that OC'd Tegra 3 ::fingers-crossed: But, that doesn't mean I won't be trying out different roms at the moment. I love the ICS roms but hate that I can't use calling over wifi. I know there are other options, but they are a bit of trouble with linking google voice among other things, so ICS isn't really for me yet even though it is beautiful. There's my choice...what's yours?
Ive tried to not post but it bothers me when people cant understand a simple question.
Chris31jct is NOT asking for you to convince him. He is asking why did YOU choose a specific rom.
He is also asking for a reason other than the generic responses given 90% of the time.
I started out on aokp then when slimics was released I used it for a while. I wanted to try aokp to see why it was so popular. I like aokp the customization options its a nice rom. I wanted to try slimics just because it doesnt have all the extra apk that aokp and cm9 have that I never use.
Most of the time I will test a rom just to see what the hype is.
3 things decide your choice of a ROM:
Stability
Customization
Battery consumption
In terms of Stability, Usually the higher the customization and options of a ROM, the more conflicts it has( not a rule).
Battery should be the same on all since they use same code and kernel.
Graphic Customization: AOKP is the Best
Settings and options: CM9 is the best
Stability + Battery: I personally prefer SlimRom or Stock cuz it has the most required customization and its very slim( about 80 mb) so probably lighter on your phone.
I wasn't trying to convince him. I know he'll choose whatever rom he wants and that's not for me to decide and/or judge. I was merely stating why most of us choose the roms we choose which is what I interpreted the question to be. The reasons I gave are the reasons I choose the roms I choose. I don't mean to speak for everyone, but that would be the most basic reason to choose a rom other than just to try out what is out there but we ultimately stick with certain roms due to what's included in the rom as well as the stability of it, although as stated before by more than just me, the ICS roms have the same bugs and therefor the same stability issues. Again, not trying to step on anyone's toes, I don't claim to speak for everyone, but I answered the question as I interpreted it.
Also, as to specific roms, I'd be here all day if I chose to speak on that because I started using custom roms on my old G1 and I've tried out probably over 100 roms for various phones over the last few years. For that matter, I could go way back to the days of the Motorola Razor and a few other phones out around the same time, but I was speaking more about android roms. As far as the roms is concerned I don't care if it's miui, ICS, AOKP, etc. If it has the features I'm looking for and is stable, then I use it until something comes around I like better.
I went with AOKP because
It had full source code and I could modify it as I wanted
I liked the layout of toggles
AOKP ROM Control had features I wanted
I could long-press Back to kill a process
It has "quiet hours"
It has decent control of background data use
I knew where the kernel came from and it has full source code
I knew where all binaries came from and it has full source code
I know the last two of these are an absolute requirement under GPL, but many ROM "authors" fail to provide this information.
AOKP has some "crap" that I freeze to improve performance, but I haven't run out of on-phone storage yet.
CyanogenMod 9, for me, wasn't quite as "usable" as AOKP, the way I use my phone.
MIUI is too "Technicolor" and gimmicky for me. Most of what it has (other than a decent File Explorer, when it doesn't crash) I consider "bloat."
SLIM seemed like a good candidate, but without easy access to full source and the ability to build as I desired, it wasn't on my short list. I tried Lightning or whatever its "default" launcher is, but it had a couple things that just didn't allow me to set up my phone the way I wanted (paging is "wonky" to the way I have come to think of a launcher).
Kernel -- Well, Hefe Kernel pretty clearly added what I wanted; better battery life without significant impact in responsiveness. I'm glad others find what works for me helping them out too.
The Zip-n-Go ROMs don't, in general, excite me. I'm not a big theme guy and I can add/remove what I want pretty easily myself.
@krazymonkeys
I understand your point. I also try everything and then stick to one ROM.
@eollie
Thanks bro.
@jeff
That's the best example of kind of answer I was looking for. Thanks!
I'm on Erik's MIUI 2.8.10.
I tried it because I like the UI: I like the notification bar and full screen toggles, I like the kill app back button feature, the task manager combined task killer home button and all the sys apps. It is super fast, lighweight and easy to use. It is stable and gives instant GPS lock.
Only problem is the battery consumption, but it's kernel related I believe.
sent from me
@itzik2sh
I tried MIUI but it is too bright. Don't get me wrong. I like it a lot. But since we don't have Automatic Brightness, then it was a pain. Anyway, it's a great ROM and I think battery didn't drain more than it does on other ROMs. What I love most about MIUI is the phone and text's apps.

Categories

Resources