Related
New version released.
BSRemote 1.2.7
Control BSPlayer from your armchair!
BSRemote is a BSPlayer remote control application for Android smartphones. It allows you to
- control the volume (mute)
- control playback status (play, pause, stop)
- seek movie position
- browse and select a movie file for playback
- manage a playlist
- load subtitles
Additionaly, it features
- full screen toggle
- timed host computer shutdown
- recent played videos list
- start BSplayer on first command
- exit BSplayer
There are two components to BSRemote: the Android application package (.apk) and the host server application. You can download both of them on our home page or use the Android Market for the smartphone component.
Change log (1.2.0):
- added sort by date/name
- added ascending/descending sort
- more elegant way for switching panels
- added support for audio files
- added few new options in settings panel
- fixed few bugs
Change log (1.2.1):
- server autodetection
- support for aspect ratio
- buttons for next and previous item in playlist
- optimized usage of battery
- fixed few bugs and other stuff
Change log (1.2.2):
- fixed bugs
Change log (1.2.3):
- fixed connection bug
Change log (1.2.4):
- playlist bugfix
- disconnect bugfix
- misc bugfixes
Change log (1.2.5):
- added control for aspect ratio
- added control for panning
- added option for keeping the display always on
- added option to switch between hosts
- fixed playlist bugs
- fixed connectivity crashes
Change log (1.2.6):
- fixed subtitle loading
Change log (1.2.7):
Application changes:
- global volume up/down (main system volume control)
- unicode file name support (update BSPlayer to latest beta version)
- RAR file support
- bugfixes
Server changes:
- new, configurable, install system
- autoupdater
- crash reporter
- network and removable drive support
- dropped separate 32/64 bit binaries
If you have any problems with application or server please visit our forum
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
WOW! I've been using TeamViewer to do this until now!
Thank you very much! Gonna try it as soon as I get home and post the results!
____________________________
Didn't get around to posting last night, but here's a quick review:
- in the ~15 minutes I played around with it, it behaved really well!
- I only once got disconnected (but that was probably the network's fault), but soon afterwards it reconnected normally
- I really like all the options present (congrats for including all the normal stuff we do with our video players ), but if I may, I have a suggestion: when going from one interface to the other, the user has to slide a finger on the screen... if he/she isn't careful, then upon sliding, the volume will get turned down instead of the new screen appearing. Also, the user has no way of knowing that there are other screens present... so, I would make use of the tabs interface present everywhere in Android (this would also sort the sliding thing).
Even better, I would merge the first two interfaces, maybe keep the slider for seeking and use a "volume increase" (that triangular thing made of bars) graphic for the... volume part , as well as make the play/pause a toggle rather than two buttons.
I hope this helps... thank you again for your work and once again: great stuff!
sholimar said:
WOW! I've been using TeamViewer to do this until now!
Thank you very much! Gonna try it as soon as I get home and post the results!
____________________________
Didn't get around to posting last night, but here's a quick review:
- in the ~15 minutes I played around with it, it behaved really well!
- I only once got disconnected (but that was probably the network's fault), but soon afterwards it reconnected normally
- I really like all the options present (congrats for including all the normal stuff we do with our video players ), but if I may, I have a suggestion: when going from one interface to the other, the user has to slide a finger on the screen... if he/she isn't careful, then upon sliding, the volume will get turned down instead of the new screen appearing. Also, the user has no way of knowing that there are other screens present... so, I would make use of the tabs interface present everywhere in Android (this would also sort the sliding thing).
Even better, I would merge the first two interfaces, maybe keep the slider for seeking and use a "volume increase" (that triangular thing made of bars) graphic for the... volume part , as well as make the play/pause a toggle rather than two buttons.
I hope this helps... thank you again for your work and once again: great stuff!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with everything said above... ESPECIALLY how good this app is
I use BSPlayer for all Tv Shows and this comes in SO handy.
wonderful job!
I know I'm jumping way forward but it just occurred to me now that you could also use the same interface for different media players in the same app. all the user has to do is choose the media player he'd like to control and.. voila!
I'm willing to beta test of course.
Amazing! Thankyou! I alternate between BSPlayer and GOMPlayer, as I find GOMPlayer easier to control remotely, but this may cause me to switch
I particularly love how smooth browsing folders and files are (one point: I have a folder with 800 unsorted files in it, and this caused the server software to crash, which is no biggie really, considering the strain I put it under!)
I ditto the comments above, and will add that I did not find the second interface until I saw this post. Also, I cannot find out how to launch BSPlayer, and cannot launch files until I've opened BSPlayer (which means I can't dump the mouse just yet!).
Also, there's inconsistencies in how the Back button works, which means I sometimes end up exiting the app when actually I just want to go back to the first interface.
(also I do agree on merging the main interfaces, or finding additional functions to make two screens necessary).
But overall, and for a first release, THIS IS AMAZING!! THANKYOU
Thank you for all this feedback.
I will fix all bugs you noticed and redo design a little so it will be more user friendly and more obvious for new users.
New release coming soon =)
smeddy said:
...
I particularly love how smooth browsing folders and files are (one point: I have a folder with 800 unsorted files in it, and this caused the server software to crash, which is no biggie really, considering the strain I put it under!)
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you describe a little more how you managed to crash server?
And does it happen always on that folder?
New version of application is available on market.
Hey, Few recommendations.
1. Increase the size of the playng title.
2. unify 2 of the screens - have the volume, seek bar, play, pause and stop on the same screen (it's just so much more intuitive) and keep the playlist on another.
3. add an option to control multiple hosts by searching the LAN for the server. there are many homes with more than one media playing computer.
4. add a feature to load the imdb page (mobile browser)/imdb page (imdb app) of the currently played (or in the playlist) movie/tv show.
I love this app.
Thank you.
oh oh, also, if you could add an option to change the aspect ratio.. it would be nice.
Thank you for recommendations.
1. will be done
2. Well basic idea for 2 separate screens was that most basic controls play/stop/pause and volume are separated from others just to make pressing buttons simple. So you don't mistakenly press something else.
3. In next version autodetect for server will be implemented and in case of multiple detected servers user can choose where to connect.
4. Do you know how to get full title of a movie out of a file name that is not always name of a movie?
5. Will be added in next release
getting the title should depend on the file name. if the user is accurate enough, his files would be named accordingly. there are usually general patterns to the name (e.g. moviename.year.release....)
moreover, you can let the user write the pattern in which his files are named..
Sent from my HTC HD2 using XDA App
Hi, I did send this as a private message, but I thought I'd put it in the thread too:
First of all, I love it, I'm interested to see if it will edge out GRemote as my remote of choice. I think it will...
Some more UI things:
1) I love the file browsing interface - it's so smooth and clear, very nice!
2) I feel like the interface is missing a "Browse" button, otherwise you have to touch a hardware button, which feels more effort.
3) I'd also consider having the App open on the browse page, at least when it's opened for the first time.
4) I like the "quick remote" idea of the first screen, but I still miss having a Volume Remote on the second screen (alongside the progress bar)
5) When scrolling between screens it's quite easy to knock the progress bar
6) Thanks for improving the "Back" button but it still feels easy at time to exit the app, compared to how other apps work.
I've written this in a hurry so may send some more tomorrow or soon!
But again, it's becoming v good!
Also, you (gapipro) asked how I crashed the app with 800 files - I can't tell you now as I can't replicate it - as you fixed it! - but just to clarify, I crashed the app and not the server - I think it just froze or I force-closed it after a minute or something.
Anyway, BSRemote is now my official media remote!!
Potential ideas:
1) Have a "skip 10 seconds back/front" button
2) Pause playback on incoming phone-call
3) Have a very simple widget or two (for, e.g. Play/Pause), so I can have a control button directly on my homescreen!
4) If possible, screengrab a preview of the video, to display in the App.
5) As stated above, launch the App with the Browse menu, and have Browse as a soft-button on the interface.
6) Either have a very simple update process for the server (the best one to my mind is the one inside uTorrent) - and possibly have the updated .apks within the server, which can be pushed to the phone automatically - or even do the exact opposite, where you download the updated App from the market, and contained within it is the PC update, which then gets pushed to the PC. (Either way, it makes this a one-step update process and I hereby copyright this idea under the name "Updat-Ed" )
Much love!!
Edd
smeddy said:
Hi, I did send this as a private message, but I thought I'd put it in the thread too:
First of all, I love it, I'm interested to see if it will edge out GRemote as my remote of choice. I think it will...
Some more UI things:
1) I love the file browsing interface - it's so smooth and clear, very nice!
2) I feel like the interface is missing a "Browse" button, otherwise you have to touch a hardware button, which feels more effort.
3) I'd also consider having the App open on the browse page, at least when it's opened for the first time.
4) I like the "quick remote" idea of the first screen, but I still miss having a Volume Remote on the second screen (alongside the progress bar)
5) When scrolling between screens it's quite easy to knock the progress bar
6) Thanks for improving the "Back" button but it still feels easy at time to exit the app, compared to how other apps work.
I've written this in a hurry so may send some more tomorrow or soon!
But again, it's becoming v good!
Also, you (gapipro) asked how I crashed the app with 800 files - I can't tell you now as I can't replicate it - as you fixed it! - but just to clarify, I crashed the app and not the server - I think it just froze or I force-closed it after a minute or something.
Anyway, BSRemote is now my official media remote!!
Potential ideas:
1) Have a "skip 10 seconds back/front" button
2) Pause playback on incoming phone-call
3) Have a very simple widget or two (for, e.g. Play/Pause), so I can have a control button directly on my homescreen!
4) If possible, screengrab a preview of the video, to display in the App.
5) As stated above, launch the App with the Browse menu, and have Browse as a soft-button on the interface.
6) Either have a very simple update process for the server (the best one to my mind is the one inside uTorrent) - and possibly have the updated .apks within the server, which can be pushed to the phone automatically - or even do the exact opposite, where you download the updated App from the market, and contained within it is the PC update, which then gets pushed to the PC. (Either way, it makes this a one-step update process and I hereby copyright this idea under the name "Updat-Ed" )
Much love!!
Edd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for another response
A lot of your ideas are very interesting and they will be implemented in next few releases.
Don't know if you have noticed but 10s front/back can be made by pressing + or - buttons under seek bar. And you can even change "length" of skip by pressing seek button (the clock like icon).
About that problem with switching panel. Do you swipe your finger to switch or you use that left and right hidden buttons?
New version 1.2.1 is available for download from market.
Change log (1.2.1):
- server autodetection
- support for aspect ratio
- buttons for next and previous item in playlist
- optimized usage of battery
- fixed few bugs and other stuff
Thanks for the newest update! Checking now... To answer your question, I'm swiping my finger, not the hidden buttons.
Another quick release 1.2.2 that fixes few bugs. =)
@smeddy: Yes swiping finger can be hard on 2nd panel thats why those buttons were made so you can switch panel without hitting anything. Or you can even use trackball if you have it.
New release 1.2.3 that fixed connection bug.
I know I'm jumping way forward but it just occurred to me now that you could also use the same interface for different media players in the same app. all the user has to do is choose the media player he'd like to control and.. voila!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Increase the size of the playng title.
4. add a feature to load the imdb page (mobile browser)/imdb page (imdb app) of the currently played (or in the playlist) movie/tv show.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
getting the title should depend on the file name. if the user is accurate enough, his files would be named accordingly. there are usually general patterns to the name (e.g. moviename.year.release....)
moreover, you can let the user write the pattern in which his files are named..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
gapipro... was just wondering if the mentioned above is still taken under consideration
especially the multiple media players part.
Btw, I didn't really notice if the font of the playing title was increased..
Again, thank you so much for the wonderful work.
nir36: The best program to do what you want is GRemote. I'm a big fan of it, although BSRemote has now eclipsed it for my needs, and I've switched to using BSPlayer from other players such as GOMPlayer/VLC/WMP/XBMC etc. on my PC.
smeddy said:
nir36: The best program to do what you want is GRemote. I'm a big fan of it, although BSRemote has now eclipsed it for my needs, and I've switched to using BSPlayer from other players such as GOMPlayer/VLC/WMP/XBMC etc. on my PC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GRemote is too complicated and too graphical in my opinion. It's also not straightforward. You have many options which are just not necessary for me. bsremote is absolutely perfect when it comes to a media player remote... especially considering that BSPlayer is such a popular one.
thx tho.
INTRO
Hello everyone, for those who aren't familiar with Sixaxis Controller app, it is an app you can use to you pair your ps3 controller to your android device to play game. Well one of the coolest feature that the app offers is the Touch Profiles (root required). This feature allows you to use your ps3 controller to play those games that do NOT support game pads or controllers. You simply bind your hard controller buttons to the onscreen virtual buttons. If you want to know more about it, google it or search on xda.
Anyway, so the purpose of this thread is to share those pre-made touch profiles. This will save time for a lot of people, whether you are a newbie, an experienced user but don't have time, or simply a lazy bum. If you are sharing your touch profiles, please provide important information such as device resolution, in-game settings (control schemes, sensitivity, and etc...), a list of key functions, and any other important information that may be needed to make your touch profiles work on other devices. Also if you can also attach a screen shot of the button mappings, it would be cool too.
HOW TO USE
1) Touch Profiles are in *.map format. Simply put it in /sdcard/data/com.dancingpixelstudios.sixaxiscontroller/profiles/
2) When open up Sixaxis Controller app, once your controller is paired, simply choose the right touch profile from the drop-down menu. (right under the "Pair Controller" button)
reserved for the master list
reserved for my own touch profiles
Just attached touch profiles for N.O.V.A 2, BackStab, and Modern Combat 3. These touch profiles were tested on my Acer A500, with resolution 1280x800. Theoretically, they should work on devices with the same resolution. Unfortunately I don't have any other device to test them on. I wrote down the list of hard button functions, but that list is on my PC, which cannot boot at the moment due to some hardware problems. When I have time, I will open up the game and recompose a list of what the button functions, then i'll edit this post. In the mean time, you still can download my touch profiles then go in the game to figure out the control.
ps. don't forget to rename the attachments to *.map after you download them. follow the the simple instruction from post #1 then you're set to go. Enjoy!
GAMES
1) MODERN COMBAT 3 (1280x800, default control settings, Classic Control scheme)
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT
SELECT
START
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
TRIANGLE
CIRCLE
CROSS
SQUARE
2) N.O.V.A 2 (1280x800, default control settings)
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT
SELECT
START
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
TRIANGLE
CIRCLE
CROSS
SQUARE
3) BACKSTAB (1280x800, default control settings. To move faster, press the sword button or CIRCLE, then use your analog_left to move. anyone who has a better fix for this please let me know)
UP
DOWN
LEFT
RIGHT
SELECT
START
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
TRIANGLE
CIRCLE
CROSS
SQUARE
I've created a few which work well on the Galaxy S (GT-I9000) which I'll share when I get a chance.
Dave
Thanks for getting this started!
Hopefully in the future the app will be updated to allow us to download these files directly through it.
Here's a video of modern combat 3 on my homemade handheld!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awSulYOTC0s&context=C3d2e065ADOEgsToPDskJs8uA0CcPx3OLlpVoLNXcM
I'll put some of my controller maps on for the LG O2X when I get back to my PC.
You can find some LG Optimus 2X Key maps here.
Hi everyone. I purchased the game Reckless Racing2(fun and great game!!) for my Transformer tablet. Anyway, I made up a touch profile for the game, but I had one thing that I wish I could change, if possible. When I come to a point in the game when I had to chose from a menu, I would like to scroll through using the up,down,left,right and then hit start to pick which option that I want, rather than having to assign a button to that option. For example, in my RR2, I have L1-L2_R1-R2 set to chose which option I want. But is there a set up where I can use the DPad to highlight these options? Thanks in advance
kxs783kms said:
Hi everyone. I purchased the game Reckless Racing2(fun and great game!!) for my Transformer tablet. Anyway, I made up a touch profile for the game, but I had one thing that I wish I could change, if possible. When I come to a point in the game when I had to chose from a menu, I would like to scroll through using the up,down,left,right and then hit start to pick which option that I want, rather than having to assign a button to that option. For example, in my RR2, I have L1-L2_R1-R2 set to chose which option I want. But is there a set up where I can use the DPad to highlight these options? Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as far as I know, regular buttons (like how you are using) is the only way to select the option menu right now. I would definitely submit this idea to the developer for future updates. Right now it doesn't bug me too much because I play directly on my tablet, thus it's within reach for me to mess around with the menu. But I can certainly see that it would be an inconvenience if you play on your HDTV or sit far from your tablet.
and i'd like to apologize everyone for taking forever to update the control for the uploaded games. It's been very frustrating the past few days in trying to get my computer fixed. after many tests and windows reinstallations, i've finally figured out that my motherboard is the cause of the problem. It's now being RMA's so I hope the process won't take too long. I also hope that this thread gets more popular so we can have a larger database of touch profiles and as well as different control preferences.
here are some profiles for some games, just download the .map file guyz
http://dc467.4shared.com/download/o3rwjQnt/Dead_SpaceshadowGunBattlefield.rar?tsid=20120110-024818-f850fea1
Here is a link to a profile for gta3 on my evo 4g. In game, but haven't configured anything in the menu. http://db.tt/kY8IYp8R
MC3 touch profile map for the galaxy nexus!!
this is a touch profile custom map for the nexus.. works great. it includes all this bottoms..
Right joystick-AIM
Left joystick-move
Square-reload
Triangle-switch weapons
Circle-Crouch
R1-fire
L1-scope
R2-grenades
L3-Run
Start-Menu
make sure you have the virtual sticks set on the game.. and the sensitivity set to high.
Hope it helps.. let me know if you any suggestions
Been looking for a thread like this. I love this app and have used it nonstop. Made a few profiles.
First is GTA. No offense to the previous posters GTA profile, but this one does everything in game, down to changing the radio and working the horn.
Droid Bionic 960x540
http://db.tt/xF6jiYpL *updated to v1.4
*Note -There are 2 profiles. Gta.map is the normal game mappings, and gtasniping.map was made specifically for sniping. I don't use the left analog stick in the main profile because I found if I go under 'Input Mappings' in settings and set each the 'Analog up' to 'Dpad up', 'Analog down' to 'Dpad down', etc. It works so much better then the touch analog mapping for walking and driving.
However this screws up aiming while sniping because it moves too fast. So you can switch to the sniping profile which fixes the left analog stick for aiming, but now it is hard to run and drive. You can still use the Dpad for movement in this profile but I prefer the analog stick. So I switch back and forth. There isn't much sniping anyways.
*Note 2 - The controls are not the default layout. I moved things so that they were out of the way and more visually appealing. I have included the gta3.set file, which is the game itselfs controller settings. Place this file under
/sdcard/Android/data/com.rockstar.gta3/files/GTA3, and overwrite your current version, out just drop the file in that directory if no such file currently exists. This will make the controls match the touch profile.
Mappings:
X- Run/drive (update: now used to skip cutscenes and exit map)
Square- jump/brake & reverse
Circle- shoot
Triangle- get in/out of car
R1- handbrake
R2- change weapon
L1- change radio station
L2- horn
R3- drive by shooting Right
L3- drive by shooting Left
Start- toggle taxi/vigilante/etc missions
Power - Map
Analog Right- camera angle. In sniping mode, press forward for zoom in and back for out. *see note below.
*Note 3- when using the right analog stick, press it gently in the direction you want. You will get a better response then jamming it forward, backward or sides. Especially for sniping zoom.
I have spent hours upon hours trying to perfect this profile. Although I've never been able to map anything to the menu screens since I have used every button in game. I hope you enjoy it. And if anyone finds a way to make it better, please do so.
"And now you see that evil will always triumph, because good is dumb" -Dark Helmet
As for my other profiles. Next is Cartoon Wars: Gunner. A fun and simple game that doesn't really need Sixaxis controls, but it does make things smoother.
http://db.tt/F7YGBzUS
The Gunner.map file goes under /sdcard/data/com.dancingpixelstudios.sixaxiscontroller/profiles
Do Not include the folder.
Mappings:
Left analog- movement
Right analog- shoot left or right
Start- pause
X- selects Ok when game is paused
Square- gun 1
Triangle- gun 2
Circle- gun 3
L1- next gun. Also hits 'next mission' on menu screen.
R1- special ability
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using XDA App
Dead Space v1.1 (abandoned)
http://db.tt/2rze2SQu
I am abandoning this mappings as its too flawed and buggy. This game was never many to be played with a controller, and it really shows.
I've set most of the buttons right, but because of the close proximity of everything, doing one thing can to easily set off another action. The biggest offender is shooting when just looking. Too much ammo is wasted needlessly. EA did a great job with the touch controls.
But for anyone determined to play with a Sixaxis. Here it is.
Left analog - Walk
Right analog - aim
R1 - Bring up gun
R2 - Extra buttons. (upper right corner)
Circle - gun selection 2 (R2 1st)
Triangle - gun selection 1 (R2 1st)
X - shoot
Square - reload
L3 - Double click to 180 turn
R3 - Objective arrow (R2 first)
Dpad down - Stomp
Dpad up - Plasma saw
Depending on the On screen action, you can sometimes use the right analog stick for them.
Can't imitate the phone shake.
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using XDA App
Counter-Strike
Just released by mod community for Android. Game found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1447157
http://db.tt/z5qIBXXe
The CS.map file goes under /sdcard/data/com.dancingpixelstudios.sixaxiscontroller/profiles
Do Not include the folder.
Mappings: R1 - Shoot
X - jump
Square - reload
L2 - Stats
Start - Change view
Analog right- aiming
*Note* I don't use the left analog stick in the profile because I found if I go under 'Input Mappings' in settings and set each the 'Analog up' to 'Dpad up', 'Analog down' to 'Dpad down', etc. It works so much better then the touch analog mapping. If this does not work for you, you may have to alter the profile.
I will be making updates to this as the game gets updated. Game is very basic right now. Only one weapon, no bomb planting.
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using XDA App
Aiming?
Sent from my good old Galaxy S II. Hit thx if u think i helped and may the force be with u.
MemoryController said:
Aiming?
Sent from my good old Galaxy S II. Hit thx if u think i helped and may the force be with u.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to need a little more then that.
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using XDA App
Sry my bad. Works ok.
Sent from my good old Galaxy S II. Hit thx if u think i helped and may the force be with u.
Device info
I think it's going to be important for people to remember...
When you upload a button map, people are going to need to know what device and/or resolution you're working with. It makes a huge difference.
Does anyone know where to find out all the shortcuts you can do with an external keyboard on Android 4.0? Things like the back button, home screen, etc. Thank.
Thread Necromancy, I know, but this is a serious question that remains unanswered. Here's the most info I've found:
Rootzwiki User Gr8gorilla posted a list of shortcuts that work with his Targus Bluetooth Keyboard (I'm editing the list for formatting, and adding more as I find them.)
ESC: Back (woo!)
Targus FN + F* keys: (edit: These only work with the specific model of Targus keyboard. Your FN key may only perform functions as labelled, test it to verify)
FN+F1: Search
FN+F8: play/pause music
FN+F7: Skip Prev
FN+F9: Skip Next
FN+F11: Volume -
FN+F12: Volume +
FN+ESC: Wallpaper, manage apps, system settings.
Alt+Tab - recent apps, task switcher (WOO!)
CTRL + Alpha keys:
Ctrl+A: Market (edit: this opens the "add to home screen" menu for me)
Ctrl+P: Settings
Ctrl+W: Wallpaper
Ctrl+M: Apps
In Browser: (edit: these work in other apps too, if they apply)
Ctrl+B: Bookmarks
Ctrl+A: Select all
Ctrl+C: Copy
Ctrl+V: Paste
Ctrl+W: Close current tab
Ctrl+T: Open new tab
Command/Windows button + : (edit: these commands work from anywhere, even in other apps)
Win+E: Launch Default Email App (brings up a choice dialog if necessary)
Win+A: Launch Calculator.apk
Win+S: Launch Messaging.apk (SMS App)
Win+C: Launch Contacts
Win+B: Launch Browser.apk (not your default browser, unfortunately)
Win+P: Launch Music.apk (not your default music player, unfortunately)
Win+L: Launch Calendar
Win+M: Launch Google Maps
From my own experience: the above work, other than the Targus-specific ones. I've tested them all. I'm looking for more, especially ways to activate "HOME", "MENU" and to open/close the notification drawer.
Also, you can edit your /system/usr/keylayout/qwerty.kl to change which key codes sent by the bluetooth keyboard activate various functions. This would be a rather involved hack, and may be specific to your hardware. Doing it wrong could compromise your ability to use your software keyboard. Also, it would be replaced whenever you flash a ROM, and possibly some smaller updates as well. Here's a guide to hacking keyboard layouts, though it's a bit old, and I haven't tested it. DO AT YOUR OWN RISK, but post your results either way!
I'm looking for a way to enable the Android SDK Emulator Shortcut Keys on real devices. It would give us that which we're missing.
Ctrl+W and Ctrl+T
In the stock browser:
Ctrl+W - closes the current tab
Ctrl+T - opens a new tab
There may be more of these that are similar to chrome shortcuts but those are the only two I really use.
erupe said:
In the stock browser:
Ctrl+W - closes the current tab
Ctrl+T - opens a new tab
There may be more of these that are similar to chrome shortcuts but those are the only two I really use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tested to verify. Works in Chrome as well. Added to the list above!
Thanks for coming up with that list. Really appreciate it.
I'd just like to clarify something: using an app called KeyEvent Display, free on Google Play, you can verify that Android is actually receiving keystrokes from your keyboard. I've tested every key on my keyboard, and found that they correspond exactly with /system/usr/keylayout/Generic.kl (fn key excluded, because that's handled by the keyboard itself, not passed to the OS).
I think the Android Framework doesn't know what to do with:
F-Keys
Mute
wow nice one.
I started a huge thread on hints and tips for the HTC Leo (see my signature) so I thought now that I have a Surface tablet I would do the same. It is early days yet but I will update the thread as I discover more so if you have tips please share. Some tips I have discovered myself and others I have found on the internet. I am in no way claiming credit for all. I just want to put all advice in one thread. These tips should also apply to other Windows 8 tablets and not just the Surface. In some cases they even apply to Windows 8 for PC. BTW, I typed this whole thread on Surface using Touch Cover
1. How to Select a File or Photo.
Simply use a downwards flick gesture on multiple photos or files to select them. Flicking upwards also works. You can share multiple selections.
2. How to Take Screenshots
Press the capacitive home button and the downwards volume button at the same time. The screen momentarily dims. Screenshots are saved to a Screenshot album in Photos app.
3. How to Allow Video, Music and Photo Apps to See Media Stored on your MicroSD Card
At the moment you can only store and browse media files using file explorer. Those media files do not show up in their appropriate apps. This is what you need to do. Go to search and type “Disk Management”. The entry in Settings will show “Create and format hard disk partitions”. This is Disk Management. Click it. You will see that your microSD card has already been assigned a drive letter. Right-click your “Removable” drive and select “Change Drive Letter and Paths for <drive letter>…” Once the card has already been inserted and assigned a drive letter, you cannot simply click “Change…” here (the option you need will be grayed out). So you have to click “Remove”. Now the only option you have is “Add…”. Click it and you will see “Mount in the following empty NTFS folder:” Create a folder in your Users directory or in C:. For instance, C:\Users\username\microSD. Select that folder. You are now able to treat your microSD like any other folder in Windows 8, including adding to Libraries like Pictures, Video and Music etc. You can now open File Explorer and right-click the Pictures, Video and Music Libraries in the left hand Navigation Pane, select Properties, then Add and select the folder you just mounted in your microSD in. Now when you go into the Photos, Videos or Music apps in Surface you will be able to see your media files you added to your microSD card.
4. Update your Office 2013 Preview to Office 2013 Final
Search for "Windows Update" and then choose “Install optional updates” instead of Windows Update from the search results (under Settings). This will display the Windows Update control panel. Now, either check for updates or tap the link that says updates are available. In the resulting list, you’ll see “Update for Microsoft Office Home & Student 2012 RT Preview.” Select it and install that and whatever other updates are available. After a reboot, you can access your updated Office Home & Student 2013 RT apps, which drop the Preview branding and have some new features, including the Ribbon Display Options feature.
5. How to Enable Rotation Lock
Open the Charms menu and tap on Settings. Tap on the screen icon near bottom right. Above the brightness bar is the rotation lock icon. Tap to toggle on and off.
6. Enable Virtual Reality Mode in Panorama Photos in Travel App
Tap on the compass/GR round icon when viewing a panorama photo to be able to see around the photo by moving and tilting your Surface.
7. Unlock Without Swiping
Instead of Swiping up the lockscreen image to unlock, just tap space bar on your keyboard. You can also wake up your Surface from sleeping by tapping any key on the keyboard.
8. Keep Photos Private and From Appearing in Photo App Library
In Desktop mode, open file explorer and move any photos you want to prevent showing in the Pictures Library in the Photo App to a new folder. Right click that new folder and click on Properties and then Advanced. Uncheck "Allow files in this folder to have contents indexed...". You can even mark the folder and contents hidden if you wish. To see changes you may need to rebuild your index from scratch if you had already opened the Photo app and saw those photos. To rebuild the index, go to Control Panel and click on Indexing Options, then Advanced and then Rebuild. Will take a while to rebuild.
9. Speed Up Web Browsing by Blocking Advertisements
Open Desktop Internet Explorer and go into Internet Options. Click on the Programs tab and then on Manage Add-Ons. Click on Tracking Protection and then Get a Tracking Protection List Online. Add a couple from the list, such as EasyList and Fanboy. Save and exit.
10. Make your Surface Desktop Wallpaper Match your Modern UI Experience
At the moment your Desktop wallpaper does not match your new Start Screen theme and style. Follow the instructions in the link at the end to make the overall experience 'consistent'. You should disable syncing of Desktop Personalisation in PC Settings if you create a similar wallpaper for your Desktop PC as it will have a different screen resolution to your Surface tablet and you don't want your PC wallpaper syncing to your Surface Desktop and vice versa. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1963066
11. List of Keyboard Shortcuts
http://tech2.in.com/features/software/tips-and-tricks-windows-8-shortcuts-cheatsheet/551452
12. Access your Last Photo and Camera Roll Photos Direct from Camera App
In Camera app, after taking a photo or video, swipe the screen to the right to see your most recent capture. You can continue scrolling to see more photos/videos. Also, pinch to zoom out from viewfinder screen to see a smaller view more easy to navigate.
13. Enable Hidden Start Screen Animation
When you first boot into the Start screen after a fresh install, you get a lovely animation of all the tiles and text flying into view. To enable this again to occur each time you enter your Start screen, execute the following registry tweak. Type Regedit in Search and launch it. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ImmersiveShell\Grid and create a new DWORD: Launcher_SessionLoginAnimation_OnShow and set its value to 1. To disable the animation if you don't like it set the value to 0.
14. Boost Speaker Volume
Surface's volume is quite low. Go to Control Panel, then Sound, then click on Speakers, then Properties, then Enhancements and check Loudness Equalisation and Virtual Surround too if you wish. Apply changes.
15. Pinch to Zoom Out to See More Content
If you execute the pinch gesture in the following apps, you will see more content or shortcuts: People, Bing, Store, Photos, Camera, Weather, Travel, News, Sports, Finance and Reader.
16. Recover More Space After Refreshing Your Surface
When you refresh your Surface via PC settings, a folder called Windows.old is created in your C: Drive. This can be a huge folder in size as it contains previous files. You can delete this folder and reclaim some storage space as follows: Search for "Tools" and click on "Administrative Tools" in the Setting results. Next click on Disk Clean-up and after loading click on Clean Up System Files. Make sure Windows.old is checked and click ok.
17. Reposition the Virtual Keyboard in Desktop Mode
Tap on the small icon to the left of the X icon at the top right corner of the keyboard to manually reposition it. To dock the keyboard again tap on the X button. Only works in Desktop mode.
18. Enable Swiping Gestures to Advance Forwards or Backwards in Metro Internet Explorer
You can swipe the screen left or right to advance forwards or backwards by enabling Flip Ahead in Internet Options. Don't swipe from the bezel, but anywhere within the screen.
19. Check Settings for Every App/Page you are Viewing
This may sound obvious but via the Charms menu, click on settings to see if there are additional options for the app you are viewing. Do this also again in the same app if you are on a different page. You will be surprised at what additional new options you may encounter. Spend some time to do this for all your apps.
20. Enable Matrix White on Black Theme
Change the entire look of your UI to a funky Hi Tec white text on black background. Go to PC Settings via Charm and tap on Ease of Access. Turn on High Contrast mode to see the effect. Turn off to return to normal UI.
21. Access to 780 Emoticons Built Into the Keyboard
More of did you know than a tip. The keyboard has 780 emoticons (yes I counted them) split into seven categories. Just tap the smiley face key and then the ➡ key above the &123 key, to scroll through them. The bottom row of emoticons has the different categories to choose from.
22. Make Web Links Always Open Up in IE for Desktop Instead of the IE App
Search apps for inetcpl.cpl and hit enter. This is IE options. Click on the Programs tab and change the "Choose how you open links" option to Always in Internet Explorer on the Desktop.
23. How to Find All Apps in Store - Even Unlisted Ones
In the Store, enter the character * and search. You will see every single app for your country and if you sort by newest, you see a lot more new apps compared to the normal way of browsing in the store. As of writing this, there are 6525 apps listed for the UK. Also you can show even more apps by going to the Store's settings, choosing Preferences and turning off "Make it easier to find apps in my preferred language". With it on and searching for * there are 6525 apps. With it turned off there are 7799 apps. A big difference. A most excellent tip!
24. Enable Alternative Virtual Keyboard
Via the Charm menu, go to PC Settings and then Ease of Access. Change "Pressing Windows + Volume Up will turn on" On-Screen Keyboard. Now when you press the Windows key and Volume Up key, up will pop a very small keyboard. Worry not, you can resize it by dragging the bottom border down and the side borders across. You can resize it to the full width and height of the default virtual keyboard. As big as you want. The size is remembered after closing the keyboard by tapping X. Another feature is this keyboard has predictive text with word suggestions popping above the keyboard - something the default keyboard does not do. You can customise the keyboard via the options key near the lower right corner.
25. Enable Full Screen Browsing in Desktop Internet Explorer
On a normal keyboard you can enable full screen web browsing by pressing F11, however the on screen virtual keyboard and the touch keyboard do not have the F keys. Worry not. Launch the alternative keyboard (tip 24 above) and press the Fn key (Function Key) in the lower left corner and all F1-F12 keys appear on the top row. Press F11 for full screen web browsing. To turn off full screen browsing launch the alternative keyboard again and press F11 or use the trackpad on the Touch Cover to move the mouse to the top of the screen to get access to the navigation icons.
26. Tips on Saving Battery
By default, Bluetooth is turned on but if you don't really use it often, turn it off to save battery. Go to Change PC Settings and then Wireless and turn it off there. Also you can turn off live tiles which need to connect to the web such as news tiles. Finally, prevent some apps running in the background by removing them from the lock screen.
27. Change Volume on Screen by Touch
When you press the Volume Keys on the side of your Surface, a small volume graphic appears on screen at the top left corner. As well as continuing to press the Volume Keys to change the volume, you can also place your finger on the graphic and slide the bar up or down.
28. See the Time from Within Any App
Want to know what time it is at any moment? Use your right thumb to slide the Charm bar into view just enough to pop up the time in the lower left corner and immediately swipe your thumb to the right to close the Charm bar and time. You should do this gesture without releasing contact of the screen. A quick in and out thumb swipe is enough.
29. Get to Task Manager Quickly
By pressing the Windows key and Power button at the same time you get to a screen were you can Lock, Switch User, Sign Out or Use the Task Manager.
30. Kickstand Works in Portrait Mode
Should you need to display your Surface in portrait mode, then open the kickstand and stand it up. The kickstand keeps it upright also. Great if you are displaying a slideshow of portrait photos.
31. Disable Logging
Generally logging can cause some sluggishness at times because log files are constantly accessed and written to. You can turn these off if you wish. Search for gpedit.msc and launch it. Navigate to User Configuration, Administrative Templates, Windows Components, and then select Windows Error Reporting in the left column of the Group Policy editor. Double-click Disable Logging in the Settings section of the Group Policy editor. Select Enable and then click OK to save the changes. Do the same for Disable Windows Error Reporting.
32. How to Move a Tile to a New Group Very Quickly
When you install a new app, it automatically gets added to the end of your tiles on the right. If you have several groups full of lots of tiles it can be quite a chore to drag to a group near the beginning. A quicker way to do this is to drag the tile to the bottom of the screen. Automatically all the grouped tiles zoom out and now you can move it to any group you like whereupon the tiles get zoomed in again.
33. Security Wallpaper Idea
What happens if you were to lose your Surface? How would anyone know who to return it to if they can't get past your password/pin code screen to browse your Me tile in Contacts? In Photoshop, add a text line to a wallpaper you want to use on your Surface's lock screen. Position the text near the bottom right corner and have it say something like: "If you find this tablet, please contact (phone number) to return it to it's owner and claim a reward for doing so." Then upload it to your tablet and apply it to your lock screen.
34. Multi Select Emails
You can multi select emails by swiping sideways the email header in the list. Swipe either left or right. You can move, mark as read or mark as unread.
35. Enable Flash for Specific Websites
Microsoft only allows certain websites to play flash content. These sites are listed in a 'whitelist'. You can edit the whitelist to include other sites of your choice. Click on the link and follow the instructions: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1961793
36. Reclaim Storage Space
You can reclaim additional space by deleting unwanted files. Go to the Control panel, delete temporary files and history. Also go to General section in PC Settings and then to Available Storage. You can view app sizes to delete unwanted pre installed apps like finance or sports.
37. Touchpad Supports Gestures
Two finger scrolling is possible on the keyboard's touchpad. You can bring up the menu from the bottom and scroll horizontally through your tiles and photos. Also double tapping is enabled too!
38. Use Home and End Keys to Navigate Quicker
To quickly go to one end of long list of tiles to other, use PgUp and PgDn keys to scroll by pages of tiles as opposed to columns of tiles.
39. Switch Between Running Apps Using Keyboard Shortcuts
On your keyboard, press the Windows and Tab keys to switch between apps. You can also use the Alt and Tab keys too!
40. Sync Multiple Google Calendars
Having more than one Google Calendar is now possible on the Surface. Follow the instructions here: http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/sync-multiple-google-calendars-windows/
41. Map Network Skydrive Folder in Surface
Here is a way to get access to your Skydrive files without having to navigate back and forth through the Skydrive app. You can now access the folder via file explorer in Desktop mode. Follow the instructions in the link: http://rashedtalukder.com/how-to-map-skydrive-folder-on-windows-rt-desktop-mode/
42. Increase Internet Explorer Performance
Follow the tweaks here to speed up your web browsing: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1998414
43. Sharing a Volume Out from the Surface
Windows RT supports file sharing (server-side), but it's hidden and disabled by default. Search for 'Services' from your Start screen. Find 'Server' in the list. Right click or tap and hold and choose properties. Change the Startup type to Automatic and you can create and share a folder like normal. Note: this might impact battery life.
44. How to Backup Recovery Partition to USB Flash Drive
Follow the instructions in the link to backup your Recovery Partition which may be useful if you want to delete that partition from the Surface. Don't delete it though until you have researched properly: http://www.shinysurface.com/2012/11/13/how-to-backup-the-surfaces-recovery-partition-to-a-usb-flash-drive/
45. How to Boot from USB Flash Drive
If you need to boot from a USB flash drive simply shut down your Surface, plug in your USB flash drive and hold down the volume button as you press the power button.
46. View Change Log of App Updates
The only way to view the change log of an app update before installing it is to deselect all the apps that want to update and select any one app. A 'View Details' button appears at the bottom which you can tap to see the details. Repeat for the other apps to be updated.
47. Share Selected Text from a Website
When you are on a website and want to share the page, you don't have to share the whole page in a link. You can highlight to select words on a website and when you share it by swiping the charm bar into view, only the selected words will be shared.
48. See Estimated Data Usage of your Wi-Fi Connection
You can see how many megabytes/gigs of data has been transferred via Wi-Fi on your Surface. Tap on Settings in the Charm bar, and then tap on your active Wi-Fi SSID name. IN the Networks list, tap and HOLD on your active Wi-Fi name and from the pop up menu choose 'Show estimated data usage'. It will show for example: Estimated usage 5.71gb since 1 day ago. Just tap on your W-iFi name next time to see the latest data usage.
49. Make your Desktop Explorer User Interface More Touch Friendly
Search for 'Display' via the Charms bar. In Settings results, tap on the blue monitor icon result. Everything is at 100% default size for text. Tap on Medium at 125% and hit apply to make everything in Explorer mode that much easier to read and touch. Make sure to set zoom level in both Internet Explorers back to 100% though.
50. Make your Keyboard Touchpad Scroll in the correct Direction
At the moment, when you scroll via the touchpad, the screen moves in the opposite direction to where your fingers move. Now you can reverse the direction thanks to a registry tweak here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2007987
51. Disable Animation on Opening Apps
If you find the flipping animation annoying when launching an app you can disable it as follows. In Charms menu search for "Performance" and tap on "Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows" in Settings results. In the Visual Effects tab, uncheck 'Animate windows when minimising and maximising'. This gives an instantaneous launch. To disable the animated live tiles, uncheck also the 'Animate controls and elements inside windows' box. To revert back to the animations, just check the boxes again.
52. Install Apps Direct to SD Card
By default only media files can be installed to the SD cards and apps are installed to internal memory. If you have a 32gig tablet, you will realise internal memory is precious and limited. Free up internal memory by changing the location of where apps are installed. Run Regedit and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Appx and change the location path of the PackageRoot key from C:\ProgramFiles\WindowsApps to say D:\WindowsApps (where D: is the drive letter of your SD card and WindowsApps is the name of a folder you created in your SD card). You may need to change permissions on the Appx registry folder so that you can edit the key. You can also change the app repository to another directory by changing the PackageRepository key in a similar manner.
53. Install Apps from Other Countries
Do you want Flixster installed but you're annoyed that it only shows on the US store? Wish you could download it? Now you can and any other FREE app (can't buy apps from other countries, only free apps). Search for 'Region' via Charm menu and tap on the results in Settings category. Tap on the Location tab and change your Home Location to any country you want. Now you can navigate the store app for that particular country and download any free apps you like the look of. Change back to your original country when you had enough. Incidentally, Flixster works perfectly well with UK location and cinemas so not sure why its not in the UK Store.
54. Speed Up Scrolling by Reducing Friction
Launch the Registry Editor and navigate to HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Wisp\Touch and change the Friction value from 32 to 0. Reboot to see change. If you feel the screen sensitivity is too fast now, change the value to say 16 or any number up to 64. 64 means high friction. 0 means low friction.
55. Stream Media Files From Your Surface to Non Windows Certified DLNA TVs
If you have a TV set which has DLNA media streaming feature, but it is not a Windows?Microsoft Certified TV (check in Devices in PC Settings), you will not be able to stream/share media files from within certain apps. However, you can stream them through Windows Explorer using the 'Play To' feature. Find your media files you want to stream in your Pictures, Music and Videos folders. Tap on the file to select it but not launch it. Tap on the Play tab in the Ribbon UI at the top of the screen. Finally tap on the Play To button and select your TV which should now be active. Make sure to turn on network discovery in the Network and Sharing Center in Control Panel, if this is not working for you.
*January 24th Update: Added entries 54 - 55.
*January 22nd Update: Added entry 53.
*January 3rd Update: Added entries 51-.52. Updated entry 26.
*December 6th Update: Added entries 47-.50
*November 22nd Update: Added entries 34-46.
*November 10th Update: Updated entry 23 and added entries 30-33.
*November 9th Update: Added entries 24-29.
Reserved.
Second Reserve.
Final Reserve.
Good summary. First one to figure out how to get a fourth row of live tiles gets a cookie.
Also, how do we replace pinned IE tiles with something a little nicer?
I've been spending all my free time trying to figure out the fourth row, and reversing scroll direction on the touchpad.
I feel ya.
As for the IE tiles, I suppose you could just create new .png files and replace the current for whichever you want:
c:\users\profile\appdata\local\microsoft\internet explorer\pin-xxxxxxxx\
I haven't tried it but, looking in there it seems like it might work.
tboy2000 said:
7. Unlock Without Swiping
Instead of Swiping up the lockscreen image to unlock, just tap space bar on your keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also press the space bar to wake the device. You don't have to press the capacitive windows button, or the lock/wake button.
MrGreencastle said:
You can also press the space bar to wake the device. You don't have to press the capacitive windows button, or the lock/wake button.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's actually any key, or the touch pad.
tboy2000 said:
12. Optimise your Surface
Once in a while execute the following: Search for "Defrag" in Settings and click on Defragment and Optimise your Drives. Click on C: drive and then click Optimise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WTF?! Have you heard about NAND?
Useless guy said:
WTF?! Have you heard about NAND?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I second this, you could actually do harm as well you do not need to optimize/defrag Anne or any type of solid state.
Useless guy said:
WTF?! Have you heard about NAND?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I read the Optimise feature was different to defragging. However, I will substitute that entry to be safe. Thanks!
Replaced Tip 12 with: Access your Last Photo and Camera Roll Photos Direct from Camera App.
I believe I read on Anandtech that the Optimize function actually does a manual TRIM, if it's detected as an SSD.
jhoff80 said:
I believe I read on Anandtech that the Optimize function actually does a manual TRIM, if it's detected as an SSD.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does. I did it and it said it was trimming
guitar1969 said:
It does. I did it and it said it was trimming
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is trimming ok? Shall I add the entry back in?
it should be okay, but windows also manages it on its own, so there shouldn't be too much need for manual use
Three more added. 21-23.
adiliyo said:
it should be okay, but windows also manages it on its own, so there shouldn't be too much need for manual use
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On my windows 7 desktop my pc trims my ssd when the pc is in a standby mode. Wonder if surface does something similar
tboy2000 said:
23. How to Find All Apps in Store - Even Unlisted Ones
In the Store, enter the character * and search. You will see every single app for your country and if you sort by newest, you see a lot more new apps compared to the normal way of browsing in the store. As of writing this, there are 4984 apps listed for the UK. A most excellent tip!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is nice, but holy crapware....I found it quite pointless to browse through this list.
another tip if op wants to add is how to force sufrace into recovery.
plug in a usb keyboard, hold SHIFT, click power-. restart. Ta-da blue recovery screen.
I created this thread to spread the love for the Jbak2 keyboard. Although I love it on my 10.4" tablet I prefer the MultiLing O keyboard for my phone. Link to my shared pCloud here http://pc.cd/VJ47
I've been using Android devices for about 10 years?, I think, and since the beginning have been on a quest for a good keyboard—'good' being a keyboard with:
4 directional arrow keys
Always-on number row
Alternate characters displayed on keyboard
A REAL delete key like on a PC keyboard (aka 'forward delete')
Extreme configurability (compare to MultiLingO, which I've also used)
Add whatever key you want, wherever you want.
Editable emoji keyboard; place the ones you use most often in the quick-access secondary/emoji keyboard.
Many other configuration options.
Minimal permissions:
android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
android.permission.VIBRATE
android.permission.SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW
android.permission.READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
I found all these things, and much more, such as:
Built-in Copy/Paste
Text Selection key
Undo/Redo
in the Jbak2 keyboard https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jbak2.JbakKeyboard (not to be confused with the abandoned Jbak keyboard, of which this a kind of a 'fork').
It's only drawbacks, imo, are that it's made by a Russian dev and not everything is translated to English, and it's Autocomplete dictionary is somewhat lacking.
As for the first thing, I've used online translators to learn some of the more esoteric things (all the basic/setup stuff is already translated, so this is not a hindrance to using the app). And for the second, I've been adding new words to the app's English dictionary as I encounter them (just one click does it), so my personal English dictionary ('user_vocab.cdb', which I have backed up and copied to any new device) is pretty well fleshed out with the words I use.
In over a year of use I've configured what I consider to be a nearly perfect keyboard and I share with you the fruits of my labor here http://u.pc.cd/pPtctalK (old link removed 12 Apr 22)
If you decide to try out the keyboard, I suggest going through the initial installation, including downloading and installing the language dictionary. After completing installation, and skipping any configuration options that are not absolutely required, use the files as described below. This will give you 'my vision' of how it should be set up (see screenshots), and is at least a good starting point for your own exploration of the settings.
13 MAY 2020 EDIT:
I uploaded to the pCloud site an alternative emoji keyboard. You'll just need to copy all four "smile_San..." files to the 'keyboards' directory and it will then be an option in Languages and layouts—>Emoji keyboard.
This is what I'm currently using, as it gives you many more emoji to choose from—via the page selection buttons on the left.
And, fyi, you can always edit the .xml files to include whatever emoji you so desire.
Place the 'en_qwerty_tabletTiTiB.xml' file in
/storage/emulated/0/jbak2Keyboard/keyboards [this is the layout file]
For emoji support (which is accessed by long-pressing Return, if you use my settings file), place the
'smile_San_keyboard.xml' file also in
/storage/emulated/0/jbak2Keyboard/keyboards
Place the settings file (perfected over a year of use)
'settings_backup.xml' file in
/storage/emulated/0/jbak2Keyboard
overwriting the existing file if necessary.
Next, select it in setup, Other settings>Load settings
That's it! You now have a nearly perfect keyboard
EDIT 13 MAY 2020:
I uploaded to the pCloud site an alternative emoji keyboard. You'll just need to copy all four "smile_San..." files to the 'keyboards' directory and it will then be an option in Languages and layouts—>Emoji keyboard.
This is what I'm currently using, as it gives you many more emoji to choose from—via the page selection buttons on the left.
And, fyi, you can always edit the .xml files to include whatever emoji you so desire.
EDIT 12 APR 2022:
Newer Layout and Functionality info at http://u.pc.cd/pPtctalK
# New layout Jan 2022.
Changes were made to accommodate quicker text editing and my many-times-daily use of the pipe | symbol in my Markdown files. (In fact I'm using Markor right now).
One of the more useful capabilities of this keyboard is the 'sel'/Select key. Use it in combination with the Arrows and Gestures.
Of particular interest to those who edit large text files are the 'Top' and 'Btm' keys which move the cursor to top or bottom of the text file. (Of course you can change these, create your own gestures, and modify almost anything else about this keyboard!).
### Gestures (some new):
Swipe Up - To Start of string (line)
Swipe Down - To End of string (line)
Swipe Left - Delete word to Left of cursor
Swipe Right - To End of Paragraph
SpaceBar Left - Select All
SpaceBar Right - Open the Main Menu
The ⦚ replaces the '123/opt' key of old. Tap ABC/opt to return to QWERTY.
...then, Longpress 'ABC/opt' for other cool stuff. Tap ABC/opt to return to QWERTY.
Longpress 'uppercase/pencil' key to see the 'TextEditing' screen. Tap ABC/opt to return to QWERTY.
Longpress 'return/smiley face' key for emoji. Tap 123/opt to return to QWERTY.
Thanks so much...i regard this as the best keyboard...very lightweight and well fleshed
Simple keyboard, multilingo and Anysoft keyboard comes next
Thank you for your settings...i was already contemplating the time I'll spend adding taste
It seems you discovered the same rough diamond I do.
I'm using the jbak then jbak2 keyboards from a while (years) and discussing some issues with the programmer (who is not the most friendly guy I met) I could get them partially corrected, finally.
The project is rather laying around with no updates. He didn't react positively to my cooperation proposal...
Since this keyboard is a fork from another already existing one I'll look at the possibility to get a fork permission from the originator too.
We'll see what happens.
Raart said:
It seems you discovered the same rough diamond I do.
I'm using the jbak then jbak2 keyboards from a while (years) and discussing some issues with the programmer (who is not the most friendly guy I met) I could get them partially corrected, finally.
The project is rather laying around with no updates. He didn't react positively to my cooperation proposal...
Since this keyboard is a fork from another already existing one I'll look at the possibility to get a fork permission from the originator too.
We'll see what happens.
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Great news!