What Are Some Things I Can Do? - Verizon Samsung Galaxy S III

Well, I've flashed many ROMs and kernels and what not, but I'm beginning to get bored the regular stock look. I've tried some times but there's always something wrong or weird that bugs me. Is there anything out there I can do to get my phone looking real nice and still have that great oerformance?

STVERDI said:
Well, I've flashed many ROMs and kernels and what not, but I'm beginning to get bored the regular stock look. I've tried some times but there's always something wrong or weird that bugs me. Is there anything out there I can do to get my phone looking real nice and still have that great oerformance?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try different launchers. Popular ones are Nova, Apex, SPB Shell, TSF Shell. You'll be able to customize a lot more things than standard launchers like Touchwiz or Trebuchet.

Nova is a damn good launcher. Also, I believe you can use some of the themes in the theme forum even in stock rooted.

mustbepbs said:
Try different launchers. Popular ones are Nova, Apex, SPB Shell, TSF Shell. You'll be able to customize a lot more things than standard launchers like Touchwiz or Trebuchet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SPD shell is nice. Brand new device. But it has a lack of widgets. I install it from time to time though
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

Brian Gove said:
Nova is a damn good launcher. Also, I believe you can use some of the themes in the theme forum even in stock rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is all true. Nova is great. Im running it now on my GS3 and works great!
Set from my Verizon Stock Rooted (Modded) Galaxy S3 using xda-developers app

Nova is ok, but I prefer Apex launcher.
theres a bunch out there. find one that suits you best!
heres a link for some icons
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=824656
and desktop visualizer can give you some cool setups.
minimialistic text and UCCW are cool to play with too.

Related

[Q] Gingerbread Launchers

Hi All, I'm currently running Wolf's Gingerbread rom and absolutely loving it. However I'm not too fond of the stock GB Launcher. My previous favorite was ADW Launcher EX, as it had lots of customizations available, however I've found that since updating to GB, a lot of the exclusive widgets don't show up in third-party launchers.
What is the best alternative to the stock GB launcher that will give me all the available widgets. I prefer the vertical scrolling app-drawer, as opposed to the 'page-style' in GB personally... Suggestions?
I really like SPB shell, It brings alot of widgets. Downfall is it is 15 dollars :\
Thanks, I'll look into that one. It looks like a nice 3D layout. As long as it's smooth, I'd be willing to give it a try.
(makes me wish the google return policy was 24hrs not 15 minutes )
Spb does not support some stock SE widgets like timescape etc. I don't think there are any 3rd party launchers that do, sorry...
Sent from my X10a using The Force
Eddie_Brock said:
Thanks, I'll look into that one. It looks like a nice 3D layout. As long as it's smooth, I'd be willing to give it a try.
(makes me wish the google return policy was 24hrs not 15 minutes )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Smoothest launcher ever. U can always try a cracked apk .....if u like it buy it. The cracked version won't last as it looks for a purchuse but u can test it for yourself
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
mrloltime said:
Smoothest launcher ever. U can always try a cracked apk .....if u like it buy it. The cracked version won't last as it looks for a purchuse but u can test it for yourself
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol that's easy to disable..
mrloltime said:
Smoothest launcher ever. U can always try a cracked apk .....if u like it buy it. The cracked version won't last as it looks for a purchuse but u can test it for yourself
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did find a 'free' version, but I didn't install it as the Permissions were extensive and it came from an unreliable source. I may get brave and try it out, but having the new SE weather widget and all the rest of the new ones at my disposal would be nice.
I just assume the 3rd-party launchers will get updated with access to the exclusive widgets, but I could be wrong.
I couldn't get SPB Shell to work on my phone. After patching it as indicated in the readme, it refused to open. I might need a different version...
I'm still on 2.1 - getting ready to use WB's rom. I'm currently using Go Launcher Pro. It's been fairly cool and has a lot of features and fairly configurable. I can get the default widgets to work with it as well. I have Timescape running on my main screen, and the power control widget on another.
I will try Go Launcher on 2.3.3 after I upgrade, and see if widgets stop working.
Keep us updated.
Personally, using 3rd Party Launchers on 2.1 (and 2.2 wolfbreak), I had no issues accessing all of the widgets, but for some reason on Gingerbread, only the stock launcher seems to have access to them all.
Is there still no way to 'unlock' all of the Widgets from the stock launcher to third parties?
I'm surprised no one else has wanted ALL of their widgets in other launchers like ADW or GoLauncher.

CM9 themes?

I know CM9 is still in dev, as well as the theme engine, but I was wondering if there were any themes in development for it...I personally like the look, but since it's my wife's tab, she was looking to have more of a pink-colored theme.
None yet. Your assertion of the current situation is correct. Once it improves, we'll start seeing themes rolling in.
Peace,
C.
You can always install Go Launcher Ex, a free theme app on the market, there are loads of themes on that and afaik its completely compatible with CM9, I'm using it without any problems so far.
Just as a thought, I'm not sure if it is in fact compatible with the Galaxy Tab, its just a thought though!
Good luck
It works beautifully & my wife loves it! Thanks!
You mighy also want to try Go Launcher HD, runs perfect on CM9!
Well for me 260 is the most perfect launcher for me,light and easy to use
Sent from my GT-P1010 using XDA
When I use Go Launcher Ex on the latest CM9 ROM(20120330), but the response of Go Launcher is a little bit slower the default launcher, even I need to push home key with few times to get response

Do you like/use go launcher ex?

I'm too scared to root and I wouldn't know the first place to start to mod my SGS2 Skyrocket, so I looked into some themes via google play.
Go Launcher EX is pretty sweet IMO... I won't pay for themes obviously, but they have a few really cool themes for lock screen and the home screen.
Im using the sms theme, the home theme, and lock theme.
I'm pretty happy with the way it works on ICS (stock) on my skyrocket.
So, do you like/use go launcher ex?
shawnj0 said:
I'm too scared to root and I wouldn't know the first place to start to mod my SGS2 Skyrocket, so I looked into some themes via google play.
Go Launcher EX is pretty sweet IMO... I won't pay for themes obviously, but they have a few really cool themes for lock screen and the home screen.
Im using the sms theme, the home theme, and lock theme.
I'm pretty happy with the way it works on ICS (stock) on my skyrocket.
So, do you like/use go launcher ex?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried it, but it drained my battery more quickly that other launchers. I'm using ADW EX, and I like it.
Don't be afraid to root, and install a rom. I would spend a good while reading the stickies, and tutorials before doing anything. If you have questions, just ask.
I use Go Launcher Ex as my primary launcher on both my Nook Tablet and my Skyrocket (As well as Go SMS for SMS) and I love it. There are a lot of themes that are available for free, though I usually modify the themes (using the preferences) to use parts of different themes.
I used to use Go Launcher, and it was pretty good, but now I've moved on to bigger and better things (I'm a Nova Prime user right now.) If you're looking for a good lockscreen, I can't recommend anything other than Widgetlocker. By far the best lockscreen I've found yet. I think it's like, 99 cents in the Play Store, but it's well worth it!
RAM hog
Sent from my SGH-I727 using xda premium
I seriously dislike Go Launcher. It's a resource hog, it's laggy, and it's not nearly as robust as Apex or the S3 launcher.
Seriously, just root.. follow all the instructions carefully and everything should be fine.
Do these things, in this order:
1) root
2) flash CWM Touch 6.0.1.0 (available here)
3) make a nanbackup
4) flash CM9 Chimera v2.2 (available here)
5) install Apex launcher
6) profit greatly
I use to use Go Launcher the first weeks I was using my phone then after testing out other launchers I stuck with Apex, another good one is Nova. Since I use CM9/AOKP I just use their themes and make it fancy looking :silly:
Using go launcher and I think it's fine, I found the organization of it was better than other launchers I tried.
I would never use go launcher on ics. Apex is far better. Or nova
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk 2
Yeah I un installed the applications related to the go launcher and needless to say I saved about 3-400 MB of ram. Needless to say I won't bother using that again.
I'm not quite comfortable rooting just yet. Maybe when I get bored of the phone as I typically get with any phone.
Sent from my SGH-I727R using Tapatalk 2
shawnj0 said:
Yeah I un installed the applications related to the go launcher and needless to say I saved about 3-400 MB of ram. Needless to say I won't bother using that again.
I'm not quite comfortable rooting just yet. Maybe when I get bored of the phone as I typically get with any phone.
Sent from my SGH-I727R using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Either way, I would still suggest either Nova or Apex. If you're not willing to pay money, I'd go with Apex, as it'll have a couple more free features that you're used to from Go Launcher, but if you're okay dropping a few bucks on a launcher for your phone, both Apex and Nova are pretty much equal. I just like the look of the icon and the name of Nove Launcher, so that's why I went with it over Apex.
enterflux said:
Either way, I would still suggest either Nova or Apex. If you're not willing to pay money, I'd go with Apex, as it'll have a couple more free features that you're used to from Go Launcher, but if you're okay dropping a few bucks on a launcher for your phone, both Apex and Nova are pretty much equal. I just like the look of the icon and the name of Nove Launcher, so that's why I went with it over Apex.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to root to get those launchers right?
Sent from my SGH-I727R using Tapatalk 2
shawnj0 said:
I have to root to get those launchers right?
Sent from my SGH-I727R using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Root helps them integrate a little bit better, but they're just ICS launchers.
enterflux said:
Nope. Root helps them integrate a little bit better, but they're just ICS launchers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without root, you can't install widgets straight from the app drawer in Apex.
Or lots of other neat tricks.
I tried GO for about a week after getting my phone. As others have said, it's a RAM hog and a battery-drainer. I've also tried 360 Launcher, and am not a big fan of it for similar reasons. Apex Pro is my launcher of choice, as it's versatile, not very memory-intensive, and not much of a battery drain at all. I had intended to try Nova, but Apex has just been so good for me that I never saw a need to.
aycockonxion said:
Without root, you can't install widgets straight from the app drawer in Apex.
Or lots of other neat tricks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol, then I guess he should go with Nova, as I haven't had any problems with it without root
I went with apex. I haven't checked how much memory it's using but I do enjoy their free themes. I'm not one for widgets yet, I'm still an android noob, but I am definitely loving my s2. Makes me wonder if I should've gotten the s3. But for the headache and money and effort to get the s3, its not worth it to me.
The s2 is quite the phone. Android customization ability over apple proprietary operating systems any day, IMO.
Sorry that was OT. However, I like apex. Currently using the Plate Theme 4 with a stolen blue background from another theme. It's lovely!
Based on this thread, I've looked at both Nova and Apex (in the market, not on my phone). Both look great, though I'm not sure that I like the idea of paying for unread notifications...
Don't get me wrong, I'm not against it; just seems a bit odd to me. That's one of the features that I would use most. I can't see any of the other paid features that would be a ton of use to me (provided I could replace icons on either free version, Go has some good themes, but the theme builder being partially in Chinese with no way to change it is a huge turn off).
Go does have one feature I really like that Apex and Nova lack and that is the ability to resize homescreen icons, not just in the dock. Not as important on my Skyrocket, but would be nice to have on my wife's Note since the icons look too small to me on that large screen. But, like others mentioned, it is a resource hog plus runs in the background even when it is not the default launcher (I mean, WTF?!), but the kicker is it cannot use icon packs that I have purchased in the past which work on ADW, Apex, and Nova.
shawnj0 said:
I went with apex. I haven't checked how much memory it's using but I do enjoy their free themes. I'm not one for widgets yet, I'm still an android noob, but I am definitely loving my s2. Makes me wonder if I should've gotten the s3. But for the headache and money and effort to get the s3, its not worth it to me.
The s2 is quite the phone. Android customization ability over apple proprietary operating systems any day, IMO.
Sorry that was OT. However, I like apex. Currently using the Plate Theme 4 with a stolen blue background from another theme. It's lovely!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about Apex, but I know Nova can use Go Launcher themes. That opens up a lot more customization for you.
liquidzoo said:
Based on this thread, I've looked at both Nova and Apex (in the market, not on my phone). Both look great, though I'm not sure that I like the idea of paying for unread notifications...
Don't get me wrong, I'm not against it; just seems a bit odd to me. That's one of the features that I would use most. I can't see any of the other paid features that would be a ton of use to me (provided I could replace icons on either free version, Go has some good themes, but the theme builder being partially in Chinese with no way to change it is a huge turn off).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have just accepted having to pay for quality apps that are basically system parts. I've payed for PowerAmp, Nova Prime, and Widget Locker and I find it extremely worth it. They're all quality apps that run smooth and integrate perfectly. Now, for random other apps, I'm a total cheap-skate and I hate paying for anything.

What launcher do you recommend?

I have a GN 10.1 and came from a TF201. In order to keep the "Hubs" format on my TF201, I used ADW Ex, which worked great. That being said, the TF201 was a pretty vanilla experience. Since the GN 10.1 has TW, not sure how much functionality is lost by going to another launcher.
Any recommendations?
Well, on ICS I prefer Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher. Funny thing though. When either are used on my Note 10.1, the seem to mess up he wallpaper resolution, blowing it up too large. Switch back to the stock launcher and the wallpaper goes back to normal. Switch again back to Nova and it will be normal for a while and then go bad from turning off the screen and back on. No idea why...anyone else?
I use Nova on my tablets since I opted to buy the prime version...
Itchiee said:
I use Nova on my tablets since I opted to buy the prime version...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also bought Nova and switched my phone over to it from Apex. Do yoyu experience this wallpaper thing? It happens to me on the stock wallpapers as well as pictures from gallery
I didn't have this issue on my first Note 10.1 last week, and will let you know about my new one that arrived today.
(I switched from 16gb to 32gb...)
On my GNote I prefer Apex, ATM. One thing making me crazy tho, is that the dock isn't transparent. Can't find a way to do it. I know I can hide it, but if it's hidden you can't specify how many folders/icons you can put on it. TYIA
Found it! Just tired from work, I guess. :-/
Nova launcher, no wallpaper issues to report, so far it's working flawlessly...been using it 2 days.
I personally use Apex Launcher, works great and you can use the Samsung Widgets
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium
Nice one to try is Chameleon it is in beta but looks promising, Apex or Nova are good too.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...sImNvbS5jaGFtZWxlb25sYXVuY2hlci5wcmVvcmRlciJd
If you run an alternate launcher do you lose any of the s pen functionality?
Thanks.
I am using... SPB Shell 3D
I forgot I bought this launcher a long time ago because my Galaxy phone got detroyed as i was coming off contract so i grabbed an iphone4s- :silly:
I loaded it up about 4 days ago and i can confirm it works great. No lag, no issues. The price is a little steep but i feel it was worth it. Comes with plenty of widgets and you can use any other widgets. The only issue found so far is you can not use a live wallpaper with it. But no big deal as i dont use them much.
Might not be for everyone because of cost$$ but it sure looks nice on the 10.1 note and is a head turner out in public.
Touchwiz still works with it as well ( a plus for some and neg for others) I have no issue with TW..
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...t#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5zcGIuc2hlbGwzZCJd
cjones1348 said:
Nova launcher, no wallpaper issues to report, so far it's working flawlessly...been using it 2 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm. Maybe there is something wrong in my saved config for nova. Think I will try again without a restore from titanium...otherwise I suppose I will try a wipe to defaults. BTW, for me this happened with the 4.0.4 the Note came with as well as the update from the other day. Odd
So, this wallpaper screen res problem is with any launcher than the stock and is annoying the crap out of me
To confirm, nobody else with the Note 10.1 has their wallpaper resolution reduced by Nova, Apex, whatever launcher...The wallpaper blows up to large, but can be messed with to get it to go to the right size, but doesn't last?
If not this unit is going back for an exchange. Too expensive a toy to be irritated by it
Thanks
Barsky said:
So, this wallpaper screen res problem is with any launcher than the stock and is annoying the crap out of me
To confirm, nobody else with the Note 10.1 has their wallpaper resolution reduced by Nova, Apex, whatever launcher...The wallpaper blows up to large, but can be messed with to get it to go to the right size, but doesn't last?
If not this unit is going back for an exchange. Too expensive a toy to be irritated by it
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use the Picspeed HD Wallpapers app and use it to set the wallpaper. It solved the zooming of the wallpaper on all launchers.
aypanthony said:
Use the Picspeed HD Wallpapers app and use it to set the wallpaper. It solved the zooming of the wallpaper on all launchers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am having this zooming issue as well. Gave the Picspeed app a go but it didn't seem to make much of a difference. I'm currently using Nova but Im about to give Apex a shot and see if I have the same troubles there.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
lilsalmon said:
If you run an alternate launcher do you lose any of the s pen functionality?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, everything remains intact. The S-pen is independent of the launcher. I've ever seen reports that you can use Samsungs widgets with other launchers, I have not confirmed this though.
Sent from my GT-N8013 using xda premium
I had bought Chameleon through Kickstarter and couldn't wait to install it, but was extremely disappointed with the result. I use ADWEX on my S3 but wanted something more optimized for ICS and tablets. Decided to try Apex and absolutely love it. From being able to have quick buttons for Google Search and Voice Search/Commands in the top right corner of every screen to the customization of the bottom launch bar and the cool look of folders, it's just about perfect. I use one of the basic live wallpapers (northern lights) and it works fine for me with no issues.
Barsky said:
So, this wallpaper screen res problem is with any launcher than the stock and is annoying the crap out of me
To confirm, nobody else with the Note 10.1 has their wallpaper resolution reduced by Nova, Apex, whatever launcher...The wallpaper blows up to large, but can be messed with to get it to go to the right size, but doesn't last?
If not this unit is going back for an exchange. Too expensive a toy to be irritated by it
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have same issue you are having , I tried apex same issue
I don't know if this is related but my stock video player is not playing preview on a thumbnail view Just pictures
Go launcher ex lol. I tried the recommended tablet launchers but i like go launcher too much xD. I tried the go launcher tablet vrs but i couldnt transfer my paid themes and didnt have as much development in it ,so i just use glx and it looks nice.
aufache said:
Go launcher ex lol. I tried the recommended tablet launchers but i like go launcher too much xD. I tried the go launcher tablet vrs but i couldnt transfer my paid themes and didnt have as much development in it ,so i just use glx and it looks nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
for those having wallpaper issues on home launchers can try this:
Free version does the same as paid. Paid version is just to support dev. No features are removed for free version.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.tamanegi.wallpaper.multipicture&feature=nav_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDMsIm9yZy50YW1hbmVnaS53YWxscGFwZXIubXVsdGlwaWN0dXJlIl0.
Hope it helps. Sorry if it doesn't. BTW it also has some cool transition features

[Q] Need Help With Different Launchers

Hi,
I have an Epic 4G Touch and I have rooted it and I know there are a bunch of launchers out there. And if it wasn't for the fact that I am a "noob" I would ask this under the ROM I'm interested in...but seeing as I can't here I go...
I know there are many many many launchers and I was wondering which one is the best? And if TWLauncher is the same as the stock launcher that came with the phone before rooting it?
Thanks in advance
stephb89 said:
Hi,
I have an Epic 4G Touch and I have rooted it and I know there are a bunch of launchers out there. And if it wasn't for the fact that I am a "noob" I would ask this under the ROM I'm interested in...but seeing as I can't here I go...
I know there are many many many launchers and I was wondering which one is the best? And if TWLauncher is the same as the stock launcher that came with the phone before rooting it?
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recommend APEX Launcher, its great!
I recommend APEX Launcher, its great!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 :good:
I've been using Apex launcher since I started using ICS on my SGS and I also recommend it.
Use apex
Go launcher
I suggest either Apex or Nova launcher prime.
I bought Nova Launcher prime and was using that with my HTC amaze and One x until I switched to my galaxy s3 and started using wicked sensations ROM which employs Apex and I am happy with it.
I hated Go Launcher. It seemed like it had a ton of custom stuff like the go sms, go store, widgets, etc but it really just got in the way for me personally.
Foreverme89 said:
I suggest either Apex or Nova launcher prime.
I bought Nova Launcher prime and was using that with my HTC amaze and One x until I switched to my galaxy s3 and started using wicked sensations ROM which employs Apex and I am happy with it.
I hated Go Launcher. It seemed like it had a ton of custom stuff like the go sms, go store, widgets, etc but it really just got in the way for me personally.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am very happy with Nova Launcher prime. I like the customizable gestures it has, as well as the effects for screen transition. Another nice feature is the ability to put swipe gestures on dock bar apps. On my phone, if I tap the phone icon, it opens up the dialpad. If I swipe it, it brings up my frequent contacts. It's pretty awesome.
I use Nova Launcher Prime unless I am using a CyanogenMod ROM in which case I typically use Trebuchet. Nova is fast and feature rich and very easy to customize. The only downside to Nova is that you must be using Android 4.0 or better so no Gingerbread support.
ItzCrooK2UxD said:
I use Nova Launcher Prime unless I am using a CyanogenMod ROM in which case I typically use Trebuchet. Nova is fast and feature rich and very easy to customize. The only downside to Nova is that you must be using Android 4.0 or better so no Gingerbread support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cyanogenmod does exist in two 4.0+ flavors though. There is CM9 which is Ice Cream Sandwich(ICS/4.0.x) based. There is also CM10 which is Jelly Bean(JB/4.1.x) based.
i used launcher 360, but some time later i use only apex launcher :good: very good launcher and configurable

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