Related
I just released my first application, and I'd like to share it to you guys.
Permission Monitor allows you to monitor you applications based on your preferences.
Once installed you can define suspicious permissions and permission sets. The next time you install an application with those suspicious permissions (sets), the monitor will notify you.
Never again you will need to check permissions of applications you want to download. Let Permission Monitor do that for you!
Features:
- List all your applications.
- List permissions and show applications who use them.
- Set up monitor to check installed and/or updated applications.
- Check all your installed applications for suspicious applications.
- Notify user when suspicious application is installed.
- Minimum battery usage
Bonus features of pro version:
- Whitelist certain applications you trust. No more notifications of trusted applications that use suspicious permissions.
- Show which applications use a specific permission set.
- No Ads
Because you can set your own preferences, the monitor will not bother you, unless you are installing a suspicious application.
Note: When the application fails or Force Closes, please send a mail to me and give me some time to fix it. I'll try to fix it as soon as possible.
Download pro version
Download free version
Sounds/Looks great Will try and report back
EDIT: Works great! No issues noticed so far!
Sounds interesting! LBE privacy guard now fulfills my permission-checking needs, though. Check it out, it's spectacularly effective.
Additionally; I'm forced, against my better judgment, to tell you that "automize" isn't even nearly a word. "Automate" is and has been around for a while. I apologise for being pedantic and hope you'll accept that my intention is only to inform and not criticise you.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
Thanks for your feedback. I changed Automize into Automate
Small update released:
Version 1.01:
- Less text in main screen
- Loading dialogs can now be cancelled
- Fixed a bug in List Permissions, which caused a force close (thanks for bug report!)
- Changed notification icon, now smaller and without colors
- Fixed a bug which caused the monitor to always check updates(even when unchecked the option to do so)
- Fixed bug when there are 2 or more notifications at same time
- Fixed a bug while showing application info
- Some other small bugfixes
Sweet app!
I was looking for a convenient way to keep tabs on app permissions in a simple, generalized way, without getting entangled in any of the more over-hyped anti-malware apps, and this one seems to do the trick!
It might be nice to have some general recommendations regarding which options to check under "Select permissions to monitor." Also, more suggested permission sets might be useful. Perhaps users of the app could post their suggestions here.
Bottom line: this is a very nifty app!
Would it be possible to enhance an app like that and set permissions on your own app by app? Some apps wants to read phone stats for no apparent reason at all. It would be nice to keep the app but deny it permisssion to read phone stats. Could that be done?
I'm pretty sure we're all hype about ICS, and wondering how long it'll take to get to our respective devices. I know one of the features will be head tracking, but I'm curious as to what you guys think will be in the update, hell, or even what you would like to see.
And also, what you think will be the minimum requirements for ICS.
Dripz167 said:
I'm pretty sure we're all hype about ICS, and wondering how long it'll take to get to our respective devices. I know one of the features will be head tracking, but I'm curious as to what you guys think will be in the update, hell, or even what you would like to see.
And also, what you think will be the minimum requirements for ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would LOVE to see a proxy authentication layer in networks. I'm uncertain why Google didn't think of this being they had business users in mind while Android was in development. Windows Mobile allows for a proxy authentication in every 'modem' layer.
Does anyone know if Google is going to add this very important feature to Ice Cream Sandwich?
Thanks.
Cole
Some things I want in ICS (but we probably won't get 'em):
General:
- Two way call recording.
- Fix the SMS delivery reports bug.
- Hosts file editor.
- Option to remove bloatware without voiding warranty.
- Make root access an option in the Android settings menu instead of having to mess with third party hacks.
User interface:
- Tapping on notification bar entries (such as the clock, battery icon, or network indicator) should open the corresponding app or settings screen.
- Have a pin lock screen without slider lock screen (like we had before Froyo).
- A "close" button on the keyboard, because long-tapping the menu button doesn't cut it and the back button is too unpredictable.
Privacy & security:
- Full control over app permissions, LBE-style.
- Built-in firewall that starts before anything else so it doesn't leak on boot like DroidWall does.
- "Read phone state" and "read phone identity" should be separate permissions.
Connections:
- Show which WiFi network I'm connected to in the notification dropdown and on the stock lockscreen.
- Disconnect from data/WiFi/GPS/bluetooth straight from the stock lockscreen.
Market:
- Use the Android Market without having to open up background data.
- Market: option to revert to previous version of apps if updates break stuff.
Calendar:
- Custom reminder times in Google Calendar, an option to set reminders during events (now we can only set them before events), and persistent reminders without having to use workaround apps like Calendar Snooze.
- Google Calendar & Google Tasks integrated in one app and mixed in one widget.
- Option to autosync calendar without autosyncing contacts or Gmail. Option to sync contacts without syncing calendar and mail. And all the other combinations.
Location:
- One click toggling of network location.
- Full offline navigation for Google maps.
- Download bigger maps than the current 10x10 mile blocks. A 32 GB SD card is big enough to store the entire planet as vector maps.
- Port Nokia Maps to Android.
I would love to vanilla in my icecream sandwich.... Lmao
Dont know but i just felt like saying it.
Dripz167 said:
I'm pretty sure we're all hype about ICS, and wondering how long it'll take to get to our respective devices. I know one of the features will be head tracking, but I'm curious as to what you guys think will be in the update, hell, or even what you would like to see.
And also, what you think will be the minimum requirements for ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my HTC Desire HD using XDA App
What can it do?
============
Are you concerned with certain apps required permissions? Then this app is for you!
Base on your settings, this app will automatically turn OFF location and network connections when it detects that certain apps are running, thus leaving the apps no chance of leaking your data. After the apps finish running, pull down notification bar and you'll easily turn network and location services back on.
It works on both non-rooted and rooted devices.
Alternatively, this app can be used as an ad-blocker or data saver.
Performance Impact
===============
With over 300 apps monitored, on average the app utilizes less than 4% of CPU on a Nexus One.
There is no noticeable impact on battery life.
Required Permissions
===============
Access to GPS and coarse location are for probing the location service settings.
Create bluetooth connections and bluetooth administration are for probing Bluetooth status and controlling bluetooth adapter.
Change Wi-Fi state is for controlling Wifi adapter.
Changelog
================
1.0
App published to Android Market after major usability improvements and critical bug fixes.
1.1
Major update
- App names are sorted
- Some performance improvements
- UI usability improvements
1.2
Minor update
- Option to hide notification when service is running
- User interface tweaks
- Removed all log messages
Please download from Android Market:
https://market.android.com/details?id=net.houzuo.android.privacyprotector
Major update
- Usability enhancements
- Critical bugs fixed
- Overall performance improvements and smaller memory footprint
houzuoguo said:
Changelog
================
App published to Android Market after major usability improvements and critical bug fixes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A link will be helpful
Fantastic app one again, sir! I've posted it to the XDA front page.
willverduzco said:
Fantastic app one again, sir! I've posted it to the XDA front page.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much
Looks useful! Even though I'm rooted, I'm hesitant to install apps that require root because of the obvious security issues. So non-root security apps are important.
I have a question though, will it block access for apps that run in the background, such as code run via Broadcast Receivers? If not, perhaps it could warn the user in such a case, because a malicious program could easily gather or transmit data in the background.
Elemris said:
Looks useful! Even though I'm rooted, I'm hesitant to install apps that require root because of the obvious security issues. So non-root security apps are important.
I have a question though, will it block access for apps that run in the background, such as code run via Broadcast Receivers? If not, perhaps it could warn the user in such a case, because a malicious program could easily gather or transmit data in the background.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you
The app only monitors the current foreground process (the one that is dominating screen).
I'd suggest that, if an app runs a background service and raises a privacy concern, it is better disabled by other ways (uninstall, etc.)
There are two reasons why background services shall not be affected by the app:
- Background services may run a long time, thus disabling network or location services could cause much inconvenience.
- To disable location services, Privacy Protector will forward user to Location Settings page. Currently, if user decides not to take action to the settings and do not run the app, s/he can go back to home screen by clicking home button. However if Privacy Protector keeps forwarding user to Location Settings because a background service is running, it may be very inconvenient and could possibly annoy the user.
Thanks, that makes a lot of sense.
I guess many users aren't even aware that apps can run hidden in the background, let alone know how to detect background services. So I'm thinking about a warning to the user along the lines of "hey, you're blocking your 'Unhappy Avians' app, but Privacy Protector detected that app may run in the background, outside of our protection. If you're concerned, you may want to uninstall Unhappy Avians".
Elemris said:
Thanks, that makes a lot of sense.
I guess many users aren't even aware that apps can run hidden in the background, let alone know how to detect background services. So I'm thinking about a warning to the user along the lines of "hey, you're blocking your 'Unhappy Avians' app, but Privacy Protector detected that app may run in the background, outside of our protection. If you're concerned, you may want to uninstall Unhappy Avians".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that sounds like a good idea! thank you!
Is it possible to get version of Privacy Protector that can run on Android 2.1 and less?
Is it independent of iptables?
p.s. App list must be sorted alphabetically
5[Strogino] said:
Is it possible to get version of Privacy Protector that can run on Android 2.1 and less?
Is it independent of iptables?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app only uses features of Android API, it does not rely on iptables.
It has been tested on my Nexus One with Android 2.2 and 2.3 roms, I wasn't able to test it on 2.1 rom because I had difficulty to find one.
I've attached an APK which should be compatible with Android 1.6, but I'm unable to test it. Please give it a try.
for further updates.. can u hide the top icon?
thx.. great app
What's about more harder function - to block access only chosen apps?
If I want use Skype and deny App X, your app will turn connection off. But i don't want lose whole connection.
Has anyone tested this on Galaxy S2 please?
Thank you
5[Strogino] said:
What's about more harder function - to block access only chosen apps?
If I want use Skype and deny App X, your app will turn connection off. But i don't want lose whole connection.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That behaviour would only be feasible to implement on a rooted device
NTOP said:
Has anyone tested this on Galaxy S2 please?
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The top device which contributes to the 1200+ downloads is Galaxy S2. There has been 4 crash reports in total (the app occasionally crashes after loading apps.. I'm still investigating) but none of them came from S2.
Major update pushed to Android Market
Changelog
- App names are sorted
- Some performance improvements
- UI usability improvements
A minor update
- Option to hide notification when service is running
- User interface tweaks
- Removed all log messages
wifi access
Would it be possible to distinguish between data and wifi (like Droidwall)?
The phone it's installed on, has a bad chip and shouldn't be rooted, but I'd like some apps to only have access to wifi, and other apps have access to both data and wifi.
Does not work on Nexus 4 with Jelly Bean
I ticked the LOC box next to Facebook app, saved, enabled... then opened Facebook app and posted a status. My location was right there in the status post
[FEAUTURED ON XDA PORTAL: LINK ]
FEATURED by Whatsapp Support Page
Hi everyone,
Are you experiencing delayed push notifications from Hangouts, GMail, Whatsapp (partial fix), Facebook, Play Store web install, etc? If so, then this app its for you!
It's FREE! No banners. No ads. Please consider donating to the developer (link in the app).
ROOT is required. For non-root version check here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2516849
This app ONLY change some NUMBERS inside GSF android database. Read below.
You will always receive instantly push notifications.
*** How do I use PNF?
Install the app, accept Superuser permissions, choose your interval, select “apply,” and enjoy. The Mobile heartbeat interval must be longer than the Wi-Fi interval, once you applied the settings, the heartbeats are permanently changed and survive to reboots.
* Why were my notifications delayed in the first place?
Apps using Google's push service (Hangouts, Gmail, Facebook Messenger, e.g.) connect your phone to Google’s servers via one TCP connection (on port 5228).
To keep this connection alive, Android uses a periodic heartbeat to prevent the connection from timing out. By default, this heartbeat occurs every 15 minutes on wifi and every 28 minutes on a mobile data connection.
This is problematic because most Wi-Fi routers and mobile carriers will automatically terminate this connection after a short time of inactivity.
Because your phone is not aware that this connection was externally closed, you will not receive push notifications until this connection is reestablished when the next heartbeat is sent.
* How does PNF solve this problem?
PNF simply updates this heartbeat interval (stored on the GSF database inside android data partition) to the value of your choice, in order to maintain the push service connection (GCM).
Once set to the recommended 5-minute heartbeat interval, you should receive all push notifications instantly.
PNF does NOT run in background.
PNF will have not affect battery life.
* Google Play Services Monitor
To check what I'm talking about open the dialer, and dial this code *#*#GCM#*#*, scroll down and search for the Heartbeat Interval. This Monitor its a default tool integrated on android. It's part of Google services framework.
* Notice:
This app is provided with no warranty. You are responsible for what you are doing on your phone.
* How to restore the default heartbeat interval value
Before to uninstall PNF tap "Restore default heartbeats" in the app.
Download here: PLAY STORE LINK (or get the attached APK in case not available on your country for some reason)
Please, if the are problems dont rate bad, send me an email ( [email protected] ) or post the problem in this thread and I'll answer you as soon as possible.
Feedback are welcome!
Changelog:
See post Number 2
FAQ:
See post Number 3
Report to google here: https://productforums.google.com/fo...onnecting-to-networks-and-devices/fslYqYrULto
Download it from play store to receive future app updates
Changelog:
Version 5.5, 2016/09/11:
- Fixed: wifi heartbeat was not updated anymore, caused by new google play services update
Version 5.0, 2015/09/01:
- Fixed bug "Can't find Google app process"
- Introduced push notifications, I will able to send all users push messages
- New icon (better one will probably come soon)
Version 4.6.3, 2015/01/02:
- Bug fixes for previous version (if something don't work, please uninstall and re-install)
Version 4.6, 2014/12/31:
- Root permission fixed for Android 5.0 Lollipop.
- Support for x86 and mips devices
- Material design will come soon...
Version 4.5.2, 2014/02/17:
- Added Spanish translation (Thanks Javier)
- Added back GTalk monitor (for "old" devices)
- Added Play services monitor (for new devices)
Version 4.5.1, 2014/02/12:
- Fixed not restoring default heartbeats in 4.5 version
Version 4.5, 2014/02/11:
- Removed workarounds to change heartbeats at wifi/mobile switch; no more needed.
- The app does not run in background anymore
- Mobile heartbeat must be bigger than the wifi one
- Heartbeats changes require toggle network/reboot on some devices
- Updated SU code
Version 4.1, 2013/09/12 :
- Fixed heartbeat not set in some rarely cases;
- Link updated to the new google forum (old one was closed)
- Added italian translation
Version 4.0, 2013/08/29 :
- PNF now is near perfection, set the heartbeat in a persistent way using GSF "overrides" table. Once you set the heartbeat, PNF doesn't need to run in background to update it and android will not revert it. PNF anyway will still run to change the heartbeat only in case you set a wifi heartbeat greatest than the mobile one, because of a GSF limitation.
- Added setting to restore android default heartbeat. MANDATORY if you want to uninstall PNF.
- After the update press "Set heartbeat intervals now"
Version 3.5, 2013/05/27 :
- NEW: PNF is now able to intercepts when android will revert the heartbeat interval
- Battery consumption of PNF is under 1% in a day
- The heartbeat is automatic updated only when android revert it or when you switch network type from wifi to mobile or vice versa
Version 3.1, 2013/04/18 :
- Added ACCESS_SUPERUSER manifest permission (best practice only)
- Make some descriptions more clear
- Renamed application shortcut to PNF
Version 3.0, 2013/02/25 :
- NEW: Possibility to set mobile hearbeat and wifi hearbeat
- Added link to report the problem to the google discussion forum
Version 2.3, 2013/02/22 :
- Solved: hearbeat interval not updating on some samsung touchwiz roms
Version 2.2, 2013/02/19 :
- Solved: hearbeat interval occasionally reset to default value
Version 2.1, 2013/02/14 :
- Added back 1 minute in the preferred heartbeat interval list and added some preset descriptions
- Reduced a little bit the amount of single SU commands executed
Thanks for the feedbacks!
Version 2.0, 2013/02/06 :
- Completely redesigned interface
- Removed ads banners, please consider a donation to support the development of this app
- Improved SU commands thanks to SuperSU guidelines
Version 1.3, 2013/01/31 :
- New: If needed the heartbeat is also updated everytime the phone connects to wifi or 3g
Version 1.2, 2013/01/24 :
- Improve: detection of errors while updating the hearbeat
- Fix: crash on some devices starting Gtalk Monitor
Version 1.1, 2013/01/24 :
- Fix: admob banner
Version 1.0, 2013/01/23 :
- First release
R: [ APP ][2.2+][ ROOT ][ FREE ] Push Notifications Fixer
FAQ
Q: What is the heartbeat interval
A: It's a keep-alive android mechanism to keep the push connection alive by sending a little network packet every x minutes. PNF only update that interval number. By keeping alive the push connection (for example every 5 minutes), push notifications will be instantly.
Q: Does this app drain battery in background? Does lowering the heartbeat interval too much cause more battery drain?
A: NO, the app itself does not run in background. If you lower the heartbeat to 5 minutes you will still don't notice any difference with battery usage..Anyway I don't recommend to go lower than 2 minutes.
Q: Where is stored the heartbeat interval?
A: Its stored in a database here: /data/data/com.google.android.gsf/databases/gservices.db
Q: What does mean "set the heartbeat to x minutes" ?
A: It means only that android will check the push connection every x minutes instead of the default 15/28 minutes. It does NOT mean that you receive push notification every x minutes. Notifications are instantly if the push connection is alive.
Q: Why Whatsapp messages are still delayed sometimes?
A: Whatsapp, and some others apps, don't completely rely on google push service (GCM). Those apps start their own connection and the messages come through this connection. The heartbeat is sent by android only on the push connection on the port 5228, and so it only keep-alive that particular connection. Blame those apps that doesn't have a keep-alive mechanism for their connection or that doesn't use full push messaging. Check http://whatsapp.com/faq/android/20887936 for more info.
A workaround for whatsapp is to swipe it away from the recent apps when your finished a chat session. In this way it's connection is dropped and you will be notified of new messages through google push notifications.
New version on the play store:
Version 2.1, 2013/02/14 :
- Added back 1 minute in the preferred heartbeat interval list and added some preset descriptions
- Reduced a little bit the amount of single SU commands executed
Re: [ APP ][2.2+][ ROOT ][ FREE ] Push Notifications Fixer
Just installed the application.. till now it seems to work perfectly on my samsung galaxy s3. Need to test more to be sure about it. Thanks btw. Nice idea
Ps : why did you make 2 threads for the same app?
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
R: [ APP ][2.2+][ ROOT ][ FREE ] Push Notifications Fixer
.xxx. said:
Just installed the application.. till now it seems to work perfectly on my samsung galaxy s3. Need to test more to be sure about it. Thanks btw. Nice idea
Ps : why did you make 2 threads for the same app?
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm glad that it works.
Well I first created the thread on the galaxy nexus section, since it is my device and I want to make sure it was working well before to open a thread here
Inviato dal mio Galaxy Nexus con Tapatalk 2
New version released on the play store
Version 2.2, 2013/02/19 :
- Solved: hearbeat interval occasionally reset to default value
Here the issue I opened on google, https://code.google.com/p/android/issues/detail?id=49721 not sure if some engineer will ever answer
Is it possible to have 2 interval for wifi and 3g ? My wifi hold well with 15-minute interval, but my 3g only makes it with 4-minute interval (or less, of course).
Thank you for your great work .
R: [ APP ][2.2+][ ROOT ][ FREE ] Push Notifications Fixer v2.2
redguardsoldier said:
Is it possible to have 2 interval for wifi and 3g ? My wifi hold well with 15-minute interval, but my 3g only makes it with 4-minute interval (or less, of course).
Thank you for your great work .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes..I was planning that, when I will get more free time I will have a look..anyway there isn't much difference in terms of battery life abut 5 or 15 minutes if u scared by that hehe
Inviato dal mio Galaxy Nexus con Tapatalk 2
andQlimax said:
Yes..I was planning that, when I will get more free time I will have a look..anyway there isn't much difference in terms of battery life abut 5 or 15 minutes if u scared by that hehe
Inviato dal mio Galaxy Nexus con Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does this application increase the battery usage?
spupuz said:
does this application increase the battery usage?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, this app use no battery at all . It only modify "heart beat interval" of the Talk app (google talk, or gtalk).
So it can make the Talk app use more battery. But sending a heart beat every 4 minutes costs less battery than trying to reconnect every 5 minutes :good:.
Also, keep a stable connection will help push notifications a lot.
redguardsoldier said:
Well, this app use no battery at all . It only modify "heart beat interval" of the Talk app (google talk, or gtalk).
So it can make the Talk app use more battery. But sending a heart beat every 4 minutes costs less battery than trying to reconnect every 15 minutes :good:.
Also, keep a stable connection will help push notifications a lot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
exactly :good:
Sorry for being a noob here, but only the second sentence talked about Whatsapp, Facebook etc push notifications, whereas the rest of the thread talks about Gtalk. I mean, this works on any app with push notifications right?
Thanks in advanced! Installed the app too. Waiting for reply ^^
frenzyboi said:
Sorry for being a noob here, but only the second sentence talked about Whatsapp, Facebook etc push notifications, whereas the rest of the thread talks about Gtalk. I mean, this works on an app with push notifications right?
Thanks in advanced! Installed the app too. Waiting for reply ^^
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing to feel sorry for, bro . Well, all android push notifications rely on Google push service, you can see this service in Settings\ Apps\ Running services, it's the Messaging service in the Google services. This status of this service is displayed in the hidden app Gtalk monitor, so you here everybody talks about Gtalk . FYI, c2dm is "could to device message", that's where the Messaging service got its name .
redguardsoldier said:
Nothing to feel sorry for, bro . Well, all android push notifications rely on Google push service, you can see this service in Settings\ Apps\ Running services, it's the Messaging service in the Google services. This status of this service is displayed in the hidden app Gtalk monitor, so you here everybody talks about Gtalk . FYI, c2dm is "could to device message", that's where the Messaging service got its name .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah thanks, bro! I thought Gtalk was that Google Talk app :silly:
Working well in the GTalk Service monitor. Having no error or anything! Keep it up :good:
i'm also trying this application
Updated the description in the first post and on the Play Store also (will appear in some hours )
I hope now everything is much more clear, even my English is not so good!
So please if some of you have any suggestion or a better description, PM me! :good:
Re: [ APP ][2.2+][ ROOT ][ FREE ][19-FEB-2013] Push Notifications Fixer v2.2
Hey,it's not available for my country on Play Store,anyone can help me,PLEASE?!
arvarobert said:
Hey,it's not available for my country on Play Store,anyone can help me,PLEASE?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh..didn't know this..maybe because my app have in-app purchase for donation..not sure..I will investigate
I'm going to upload the APK on the first post so you can download! EDIT: Here http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1749796&d=1361483849
Thanks for let me know.
This seems to have fixed my delayed WhatsApp notifications. Thanks a lot
SABS - Knox SDK frontend
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
SABS is an open source tool that shows how to use Samsung Knox SDK without root. It lets developers see how various features work and test them. Some of the features are: system-wide domain blocker, package disabler, permission manager, apps force stopper (examples include theme store), system-wide or app-specific port 53 blocker and more.
SABS works on all non-rooted (and knox not triggered) Samsung devices with Android Lollipop 5.0 or higher and Samsung Knox version 2.5 or higher. Testers have confirmed that SABS works without any major issues on these devices: Samsung Galaxy S8, S8+, Note 8, A3 2017, S7, S7 edge, S6, S6 edge, J7 Pro, J7 2016, J5 2016, J5 2015. Some testers have confirmed that SABS works without any major issues but others have reported phone reboots on these devices: S9, S9+.
To develop apps that use Knox SDK or try them out, you need to get the license key. Development license key works for up to 10 devices. To develop an app based on SABS or try it out, you have to also change the package name (id) to get your own 10 development seats. Instructions are below.
As featured in:
Lifehacker:
"Simple Ad-blocker for Samsung (SABS for short) promises to remove all those pesky ads and then some. The app works by tapping into Samsung’s ultra-secure KNOX software. That gives it the ability to disable packages—A.K.A. the terrible bloatware slathered on by your carrier. SABS also includes a system-level permission manager, giving you an extra level of control over what apps can see and do on your phone."
XDA Developers:
"Along with providing an ad blocker service, SABS can also disable system apps that are impossible to disable within the settings application without root. You can also use it to remove permissions from apps that you can’t usually control."
Gizmodo:
"There are many adblockers in the Android App Store. Most eliminate ads or replace them with something that does not bother the eye. Simple Ad-blocker for Samsung (SABS) takes that function a little further and does something very welcome: put control of the applications in our hands."
Also featured in: Android Community, The Gioi Tre, iCrowdNewswire, TuttoAndroid, InfoGlitz, PametniTelefoni, GameOfThrone, AllAboutPhones, AndroidCure, GizBlog and more!
Table of contents
Donate
Setup
External links
FAQ (post #2)
Changelog (port #3)
Donate
You can donate to LayoutXML on MOD Edit:- Links Removed
. I'm a school student who is about to go to university. Every dollar helps.
Setup
Congratulations, you are now a developer who is interested in developing (or trying out) an app that uses Knox sdk.
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
Following steps 1-i-ii-a takes about 30 minutes. If you follow steps 1-i-ii-b it will take about 2 minutes. Following steps 2-i-ii-a takes about 2 minutes. If you follow steps 2-i-ii-b it will take about 2 minutes.
Even though the method with a computer takes more the first time, the app will be more stable. Not to mention, that this method is completely free. The method with a phone takes less time at first but you need to use paid app and the app will be less stable.
1. Setup for the first time
Every user of SABS needs to receive a license key directly from Samsung.
Follow along this video to make sure you are following the steps correctly. There are several cuts to hide my personal information in the video.
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
[/LIST]
Step II - Changing the package name
You can choose to change a package name of the app with or without a computer. Before following the steps below, uninstall any KNOX adblocker you already have installed on your phone such as Adhell, Adhell 2 or Disconnect Pro.
a - With a computer
Follow along this video to make sure you are following the steps correctly.
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
[/LIST]
b - With your phone
The are multiple ways to change the package name of the app. Following guide focuses on editing the package name with "APK Editor Pro" app. You can also use different apps if such exist.
Follow along this video to make sure you are following the steps correctly.
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
B - With your phone
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
XDA:DevDB Information
SABS, App for all devices (see above for details)
Contributors
MOD Edit:- Links Removed
Version Information
Status: Stable
Current Stable Version: 0.0.9
Stable Release Date: 2018-03-14
Created 2018-02-18
Last Updated 2018-03-15
FAQ
Is using SABS safe?
Yes, SABS is open source, it uses Samsung Knox SDK.
Why do I have to get my own key?
To use Samsung Knox SDK you need to have a license key. You can get development license for free or become a Samsung partner with a registered business and going through vetting.
Ads are not blocked on application X. What do I do?
SABS is simply a frontend for Samsung Knox. Standard package in app is very light to show what can be achieved with Samsung Knox. mmotti's package has more domains and may be used to block more domains. You can add other packages (blocklists) such as adaway if you want to block ads. You can also block domains yourself. You can also ask this question on xda thread (linked below) and learn what packages others are using.
Do I have to be rooted?
No. Not only you don't have to be rooted, SABS only works on devices with knox not tripped.
Changelog
Latest version:
v0.0.9 (2018-03-15)
Code:
* Layout fixes (text no longer overlays or gets cropped in some areas of app)
* Text improvements
* Improved whitelisting domains (you can now simply whitelist the domain instead of finding it in the package)
* Removed 1 empty permission
* Export unique blocked domains from recent screen to a file
* Choose recent activity time from 1 to 7 days
* Refresh recent activity
* Block theme store from being launched - you can now easily use phone themes from XDA or other websites. (works better than simply disabling theme store in package disabler screen)
* "Restore permissions" option in permissions manager screen
* More
Older releases:
v0.0.8 (2018-03-03)
Code:
* Fixed the bug where blocking would not enable/disable or show incorrect value
* Fixed dialog asking for key going under screen on devices with small screens and big fonts
* Added a loading screen for enabling/disabling blocking, adding block lists (subscribing), updating lists
* Integrated mmotti's domain package into SABS now. You can safely enable both (don't forget to remove the old one if you have added it before)
* Made SABS block domains only once if they appear in multiple packages
* Added a number that shows how many unique domains are blocked across the all packages (whitelisted domains are not included)
* You can now also use files inside the subscribe screen
* Provider in subscribe screen is not cut of anymore
* Fixed the black theme on dialog asking for key
* Increased the chances of successfully blocking big domain lists
* Removed obsolete and not working permissions in permission manager
* Added descriptions for all permissions in permission manager
* Changed the versionCode (internal code in SABS) to show number of commits at the release moment
* More
v0.0.7 (2018-02-23)
Code:
* Added an option to choose whether to block port 53 globally or only on Chrome
* Fixed some app icons not showing up in package disabler
* Updated string.xml with clearer wording and improved settings menu names
* Made long press on an app in package disabler open its settings in phone settings
* Added ability to control READ_CLIPBOARD permission
* Sorted permissions in permissions tab alphabetically
* Fixed custom whitelist being ignored
* Added more fixes and improvements to blocking enabling including but not limited to: fix to not block duplicate domains, fix to first block port 53,
* Added ability to block or whitelist custom wildcards
* Fixed some issues with domain checking
* Changed updater from dialog to snackbar on black theme
* More
v0.0.6 (2018-02-17)
Code:
* Share blocked package list
* Materialized whitelist, blocking, subscribe, permission in apps screens, redesigned recent activity screen
* Improved search in package blocker screen
* Orange selection bug fix
* New settings screen
* Ability to disable start-up warning
* Black theme (amoled)
* Option to block port 53 (may break some functionality)
* Removed 15k url limit. The only limit now is set by Samsung (AFAIK ~20k)
* More responsive UI
* Margins in settings and in package disabler fixed
* Made the delete button and checkbox in subscribe screen work all the time
* Fixed and closed issues 1-6, responded to the majority of feature requests, bug mentions on reddit
* Cleaned up
* More small changes (check out recent commits)
v0.0.5 (2018-02-07)
Code:
* Optimized for changing package id - no more crashes (if renamed as instructed above), correct uninstall, shows package id in the settings, about screen and lets you copy it by clicking.
* Cleared slides shown at the start when first installing.
* Unblocked port 53 as it is used in many places such as Android Wear. You can expect the option to select whether you want it blocked or not in the future
* Prompt to restore administrative privileges if they get removed
v0.0.4 (2018-02-04)
Code:
* Recent activity screen design changes and improvements
* Internal checker that reminds users that the key cannot start with letters "KLM" if their key does
* A warning screen every time a user opens an app that reminds that it is dangerous to edit some things, and so that there wouldn't be any accidental presses while phone is, for example, in the pocket
* Ability to rotate screen, scroll if items are out of screen, support for more screen sizes
* Faster loading for package disabler
* Search icons in search fields
* Import and export disabled package list file name chooser
* List of domains updated
* Fixes for some domains
* Removed billing permission
* Clean-up
v0.0.3 (2018-01-29)
Code:
* Fixed back press button bug where user would be taken unnecessary amount of steps back (not level based)
* Fixed bottom bar showing in some screens where it shouldn't
* Fixed some titles in screens
* Native support for 18:9 aspect ratio - no need to press to expand app
* Design fixes
* Asynchronous loading! No need to wait for certain elements to load because it's done in the background
* Google Duo is now by default in whitelisted apps because of errors in duo
* Fixed bug where system apps were reported as user apps
v0.0.2 (2018-01-02)
Code:
* Auto updater (notifies about new release, loads website to download)
* Licenses in settings > about
* Removed some dependencies (crashlytics, fabric)
* Updated dependencies
* Material design package manager
* Ripple effect
* Fixed grey background bug (background would change to grey when returning to app when permission manager was on)
* Menu in permission manager
* Pull to refresh in package manager
* Animations in settings
* Snackbars when turning on/off domain blocking, enabling/disabling packages in manager
* One fragment renamed in source files
* Clean-up
v0.0.1 (2018-01-01)
Code:
* New project name, readme file, license
* Lint correctness fixes
* Updated build.gradle dependencies
* New bottom bar navigation view (replaced deprecated roughike's BottomBar)
* Materialized - many design fixes, compliance with Material design guidelines (not finished). Including but not limited to: margins, text sizes, colors, styles
* Complete settings menu redesign
* New app icon, button icons and many other images
* Tutorial slides
* About section with links to view source code, send feedback
* Better (but not finished) error fragments and text informing about errors
* Many layouts changed to constraint layouts
* Ability to control extra 308 permissions
* Permissions are now numbered
* Scrollbar on permissions manager fragment
First! :silly:
Second!
Many thanks to @NeedleGames for making this SABS thread.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember about SABS/AdHell and related projects is that they do not block ads! All they do is configure and launch the Knox firewall, including the ability to block user-defined domains. The key to ad blocking is picking the correct domains to block, and that's done primarily by using the appropriate "providers". The standard package covers most situations, but you can also whitelist (allow) domains that would be otherwise blocked, or blacklist (block) domains not already blocked by the default standard package. In addition, you can also prevent all blocking for applications that you select under "Manage blocking in apps". In general, the less you stray from the default, the better. Please try to investigate those options before assuming that SABS "doesn't work".
Mike B. said:
Perhaps the most important thing to remember about SABS/AdHell and related projects is that they do not block ads! .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I was thinking about the wording but since the app is called SABS I had no choice but to name the thread appropriately.
SABS uses Samsung's KNOX SDK to block domains, disable apps and permissions. It can use the domain blocking to block domains that serve ads but this is not always possible.
Just switched from AdHell to SABS and everything works perfectly.
This is my custom blocked hostes:
http://getadhell.com/standard-package.txt
https://pgl.yoyo.org/as/serverlist.php
http://core.royalads.net
https://adaway.org/hosts.txt
https://hosts-file.net/ad_servers.txt
https://www.fanboy.co.nz/r/fanboy-ultimate.txt
Thank you for this! I was using the original Adhell until recently it stopped working. Got everything setup per your instructions and it works very well. Love the clean interface and choice of dark or light themes. Keep up the good work!
Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
jkolner said:
Just switched from AdHell to SABS and everything works perfectly.
This is my custom blocked hostes:
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a LOT of hosts and seems to be a gross overkill with no obvious benefit. If you study the contents of those lists you might discover that there are multiple redundant entries (especially since they don't use wildcards). Try using solely the default standard package and you might be surprised by how efficient it is.
For the enabling and disabling of SABS, I recall on the original Adhell this process would take a few seconds but it seems to take longer on SABS. I've whitelisted googleadservices.com disabled and tried re-enabling but it seems to just hang. Any suggestions?
Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
snk012 said:
For the enabling and disabling of SABS, I recall on the original Adhell this process would take a few seconds but it seems to take longer on SABS. I've whitelisted googleadservices.com disabled and tried re-enabling but it seems to just hang. Any suggestions?
Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless you're using an unusually large input file (you shouln't!), give it a minute or two at most and if it still shows as OFF, briefly turn your phone to landscape then back to portrait and the screen will update.
Mike B. said:
Unless you're using an unusually large input file (you shouln't!), give it a minute or two at most and if it still shows as OFF, briefly turn your phone to landscape then back to portrait and the screen will update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the stock input file that comes with the application. I've tried your suggestion of giving it a few minutes and turned the phone to landscape and back but still encountering the same issue..
Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk
snk012 said:
I am using the stock input file that comes with the application. I've tried your suggestion of giving it a few minutes and turned the phone to landscape and back but still encountering the same issue..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It took my phone a good 2.5 minutes to enable. Just give it time. I guess network speed has to do with it as well ( I have 100 Meg and still took some good time).
First time it worked for me. AdHell 2.0 RIP Neve did. I'm on Oreo, and if people follow very good instruction by OP, it should work. Happy camper here.
Like I posted in adhell 2 thread the app is not working on s7. I changed the package name using apk editor, license key was activated successfully and it doesn't blocked anything. Any ideas why?
Edit. It blocked 2 things: e.crashlytics.com; api.mixpanel.com. Nothing close to what it normally blocks.
I wonder why adhell 2 and sabs don't work on this phone. I am pretty much ready to pay for it to work. In my previous post I stated that adhell 2 (Mmotti's version) works on my note 8 and girlfriend's s8. I am ready to pay and give any collaboration because I really am frustrated to not work on a brand new s7.
Just wanted to say thanks. Switched to this a few days ago on my S8+, when my key expired. Works great.
Well done! :good:
Yanchev said:
Like I posted in adhell 2 thread the app is not working on s7. I changed the package name using apk editor, license key was activated successfully and it doesn't blocked anything. Any ideas why?
Edit. It blocked 2 things: e.crashlytics.com; api.mixpanel.com. Nothing close to what it normally blocks.
I wonder why adhell 2 and sabs don't work on this phone. I am pretty much ready to pay for it to work. In my previous post I stated that adhell 2 (Mmotti's version) works on my note 8 and girlfriend's s8. I am ready to pay and give any collaboration because I really am frustrated to not work on a brand new s7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So are you saying that two sites on it are currently blocked?
Do you have access to a computer / android studio for debugging?
mmotti said:
So are you saying that two sites on it are currently blocked?
Do you have access to a computer / android studio for debugging?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Currently it has 9 things blocked. I installed your version of adhell 2 on my phone with android studio and by USB debugging and it works flawlessly. But I don't think that will help here. It's knox blocks 0.1% of the things it should. I wonder if it's because of the knox version. I can provide screenshots or whatever you need. I am basically open to any idea.
Yanchev said:
Currently it has 9 things blocked. I installed your version of adhell 2 on my phone with android studio and by USB debugging. But I don't that willing help. It's knox blocks 0.1% of the things it should. I wonder if it's because of the knox version. I can provide screenshots or whatever you need. I am basically open to any idea.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason I ask is because if you are running, say Adhell2 in your device, you can use logcat and filter the results that may give some indication of what's going on.
I would suggest as a starting point:
Disable Adhell on your phone
Connect your phone to a pc / laptop
Open android studio and open the logcat tab at the bottom
Verity that your phone is updating Logcat.
In the logcat 'search' or filter bar, type ContentBlocker56
Enable Adhell
If you could provide me with the output of the logcat window, I may be able to see something. Alternatively I may need to make a separate version that adds one URL at a time and outputs this to logcat.
Have you tried browsing using Samsung Internet to see if more is blocked?
To note: I only mention Adhell specifically as I know the logcat output like the back of my hand. This may or may not have been reduced in SABS, I haven't had time to verify. Once we can get you running with Adhell, it should be straightforward with SABS too.
mmotti said:
The reason I ask is because if you are running, say Adhell2 in your device, you can use logcat and filter the results that may give some indication of what's going on.
I would suggest as a starting point:
Disable Adhell on your phone
Connect your phone to a pc / laptop
Open android studio and open the logcat tab at the bottom
Verity that your phone is updating Logcat.
In the logcat 'search' or filter bar, type ContentBlocker56
Enable Adhell
If you could provide me with the output of the logcat window, I may be able to see something. Alternatively I may need to make a separate version that adds one URL at a time and outputs this to logcat.
Have you tried browsing using Samsung Internet to see if more is blocked?
To note: I only mention Adhell specifically as I know the logcat output like the back of my hand. This may or may not have been reduced in SABS, I haven't had time to verify. Once we can get you running with Adhell, it should be straightforward with SABS too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will try that when I can use a computer.