READ THE FIRST TWO POSTS ENTIRELY BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANYTHING. MOST ISSUES HAVE ALREADY BEEN SOLVED.
This is the original Google Now version without sport team adding or stocks. This will not be updated any further. Use a Jellybean ROM if you want to see the updated features. Do not ask about updates. If you do not read these posts and ask a question which has already been answered, you will be mocked.
Read through the entire first and second post before asking a question. By clicking the "Show Content" button below, you agree that you forfeit any right to get upset when someone makes fun of you for posting a question that has been covered. We will work tirelessly to help you solve issues when you have them. All that's asked of you in return is to at least attempt to solve them yourself by reading these first two posts.
The JellyBean update for Google Now, which includes manually adding sports teams, has not yet been ported. Please refrain from asking about this update, since all we're going to do is give you a silly answer to match the silly question.
Requirements:
Follow the simple instructions here.
You must be on Ice Cream Sandwich.
You MUST be rooted
You must be on a deodexed ROM. If you aren't sure, ask your chef.
You should be running a custom recovery like ClockWorkMod Recovery (CWM) or Team Win Recovery Project (TWRP). I use CWM, so this guide is based on that.
WVGA resolution or higher. (480 x 800)
Your device must be using ARMv6 or v7 CPU architecture. If you aren't sure what that is, check this thread.
You must have a file explorer that has root permissions. I use ES File Explorer, so this guide is based on that.
You need at least 60MB of system space for the full offline installation. (30MB for online only version) If you don't know how to check, simply download Titanium Backup from the market. It tells you right on the main screen. (pic)
ARMv7 INSTRUCTIONS:
Download whichever file you want and flash it in recovery. Always be sure to make a backup just in case.
File descriptions:
Online only zip is for those of you who need to save /system space. It removes the offline voice files, so that offline voice dictation does not work. You must always have some sort of data connection for this type of zip.
Offline/Online zip is for those with no /system space restrictions. It contains the full Google Now package with offline voice dictation.
Update zip is for those who already have a version of GN installed. All it does is change your version to the one your choose without having to download a big file. If you are already on an Offline version, it will update you to the Offline version of whichever you choose. Same goes for Online versions and manual installations.
APK only is for those who have already flashed a zip. You may simply push the new apk to /system/app (overwrite or remove the previous version), set permissions to rw-r-r (0644), and reboot to enjoy the latest version of Google Now. DO NOT TRY TO INSTALL THE APK BY ITSELF.
If you aren't sure which one to use, or if this is too much information or is otherwise overwhelming for you, just flash the L4 version - Offline/Online, since it's the latest. Be sure to scroll down a bit and read about it, though.
Before doing anything, you need to make sure you have at least 60MB of free space on your /system partition for Offline/Online files and 30MB of free /system space for Online Only files. The L4 Full Zip only requires 20MB of free space.
Easy installation:
reekotubbs created an installer/restorer that can be used to easily pick which zip you want. It also backs up relevant files for you in case you want to restore later. The thread link is below. Please ask any questions regarding this installer in his thread. [APP][4.0] Google Now for ICS Installer/Restorer [flashable Aroma Zip]
Alternately, if you aren't sure which recovery you're using, or your recovery messed up a flash, try out reekotubbs' app. It does the same thing as his aroma zip linked above, but it works through a standard Android app available for download on the Amazon app store and slide me market. As before, please ask questions about this app in his thread. GNow Handlebars
Flashable ZIPs
As per the new XDA rule on sharing, I am requesting that these zips not be shared elsewhere. I can't troubleshoot issues outside this thread, so please direct people here instead of redistributing the zips.
BY CLICKING THIS BUTTON BELOW TO SHOW THE CONTENT, YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ THIS POST AND THE NEXT ONE ENTIRELY. IF YOU HAVEN'T, AND YOU POST SOMETHING THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN ANSWERED, YOU WILL BE MOCKED. DO NOT CLICK THE "SHOW CONTENT" BUTTON UNLESS YOU AGREE TO THIS.
L4 - lenny_kano's version 4 - This is identical to the M7 file below, except the apk has been edited to allow you to download your own language files. This means that there is no online or offline version. Download the zip, and flash it. If you already have Google Now installed, you will need to remove it first before installing this version.
Full Zip via Mediafire - 13.06MB /Hotfile mirror
L4-Velvet.apk Only
M7 - mikeyxda's version 7. This version improves on M6 by tweaking notifications to be more accurate and frequent. This version may use more battery. If you are using a Sense ROM, see the troubleshooting below for a hack to improve Google Now performance and battery efficiency.
Online/Offline via Mediafire - 36.48MB /Hotfile mirror
Online Only via Mediafire - 14.06MB /Hotfile mirror
M7 Update - 3.97MB /Hotfile mirror
M7-Velvet.apk Only
Inverted M7 - This is identical to the M7 files from above, except the colors are inverted, so that it has a black background instead of white, and white text instead of black. If you already have Google Now flashed, you can simply perform the update to this version.
Online/Offline via Mediafire - 36.81MB /Hotfile mirror
Online Only via Mediafire - 14.04MB /Hotfile mirror
Inverted M7 Update - 4.30MB /Hotfile mirror
M7inverted-Velvet.apk Only
How to:
Move the file you picked to the root of your SD card. Don't put it in any folder. This just makes it easier to find.
Reboot your device into recovery. See your device's specific instructions on how to do this if you are not sure. Google it for a faster answer.
Backup your current ROM.
In CWM, navigate to "Install zip from SD" and select that.
Next, highlight "Choose zip from SD card" and select it.
Scroll down to the Google Now zip you loaded onto your SD card, then select it.
Scroll down and select the option that says "Yes - Install Google Now....zip"
Once it has flashed, go back to the main CWM menu and select "Reboot system now".
Launch Google Now by opening your App Drawer and selecting the Google Icon (pic), or by adding the Google Search Widget (pic) to your home screen, then doing a normal search. (pic)
Go into the settings menu for Google Now and set it up for your Google account and various other settings.
Manual Installation:
Some Recoveries do not do a good job of retaining the permissions being set by the zips. Some don't even properly flash the files. If you aren't using CWM or TWR or it seems as though Google Now hasn't been flashed properly, then please follow these steps to manually install everything.
Download the Google Now zip of your choice from above and extract the /system folder into your SD card.
Fire up ES File Explorer (or whichever one you feel like using).
If you haven't used ES File Explorer before, open it, then hit menu.
Tap settings, then scroll all the way down.
Tap the entry that says "Root Settings" and make sure everything in there is checked.(pic).
Allow root access when the dialogue box for Superuser pops up.
After that, check off "Mount file system", then back out of the menu.
Navigate to the SD card with the Google Now /system folder.
Long press on the /system folder and select "Copy" from the menu.
Navigate up to the root directory and then press the "Paste" button on your menu bar at the top. (pic)
It will ask if you want to overwrite the files. Tell it yes.
Delete GoogleQuickSearchBox.apk from /system/app or rename it to "GoogleQuickSearchBox.apk.bak"
Now we need to set permissions.
Move into /system/app and scroll down to find GoogleTTS.apk.
Long press GoogleTTS.apk and select "Properties".
Change the permissions to rw-r-r. (pic)
Scroll down and find Velvet.apk.
Long press Velvet.apk and select "Properties".
Change the permissions to rw-r-r. (pic)
Navigate to /system/usr/srec/ and find two folders named "config" and "en-US"
Tap and hold on the "config" folder icon to bring up the options menu, then scroll down to Properties.
Tap properties, then tap change and see if the check boxes match this picture.
If it matches, leave it alone and head back to your home screen to enjoy using Google Now! If it doesn't match, change it so it does.
Do the same thing for the "en-US" folder.
Launch Google Now by opening your App Drawer and selecting the Google Icon (pic), or by adding the Google Search Widget (pic) to your home screen, then doing a normal search. (pic)
Go into the settings menu for Google Now and set it up for your Google account and various other settings.
ARMv6 INSTRUCTIONS:
ARMv7 zips do not work on ARMv6 devices. If your device is ARMv6, then unfortunately, you won't receive the latest and greates Google Now updates, but you can still try it out until you get a Jellybean ROM for your device. The voice search still does not work for ARMv6. There is a workaround for it, though.
The Easy Way:
Reboot into Recovery.
Backup your ROM.
Flash this in recovery.
Enjoy.
If you want to use the voice search workaround, visit this thread and install the apk.
The Hard Way:
Back up your current ROM.
Using your favorite file explorer, navigate to system/app and rename GoogleQuickSearchBox.apk to GoogleQuickSearchBox.bak. This is now your backup file.
Download this file, and rename it to "GoogleQuickSearchBox.apk"
Move this file to your SD card if you downloaded it from your PC. Move it to /system/app using your favorite root file explorer.
Set the permissions to rw-r-r
Reboot and enjoy
If you want to use the voice search workaround, visit this thread and install the apk.
Now What?
So, you flashed Google Now. You're wondering what you can do with it, right? Well, thankfully, Killer-B has a handy little guide to get you up to speed on all the cool stuff Google Now can do as well as how to do it!
Commands & Now Cards For Google Now!!! Now Video, and custom widget
At this point, I'd suggest looking through your contact list for people with unusual, or difficult to pronounce names. Go into their contact card, and add in a nickname for them of their phonetically spelled name. Google Now has trouble parsing these unusual names, and there isn't a way to make it learn. Spelling the names like they sound allows you to send texts and place calls via Google Now without any voice issues.
Open up the red mic screen and "Do a barrel roll."
Troubleshooting
If you are having an issue with Google Now, please read this and the second post to see if it's been addressed already. Failing to do this will result in someone making fun of your inability to properly read. You have been warned.
The red mic screen won't display.
To fix this, press the normal mic within the Google Now app. While it is listening (after it beeps), press menu > refresh. Now you're at the red mic.
Google Now Force Closes.
Make sure you have enough space on your /system partition before installing this. You need at least 60MB free for the Offline versions and 30MB free for the Online versions.
lenny_kano said:
About the permission denied fc, I'm guessing the users with the issue have an old gmail? Try updating or using tsjoklats patched one and the note to self fc will go away. See what logs do?
Oh and just to explain, the old gmail allows stuff based on signature, so as this apk is resigned it will not be allowed. The new.gmail marks it as.dangerous and will create a.notification for you to allow permission, or the patched one marks it as normal and allows it silently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone gets worse battery life or uses more data.
Read this post by Racer Of All and follow the directions using apktool. This is for advanced users running a Sense 4.0 ROM only. Sense 4.1 and higher is unsupported.
Sports cards aren't showing up.
It won't add teams that aren't in regular season. To add new teams, simply do a search for them. You can also backup your ICS ROM with a nandroid, flash a Jellybean ROM, manually add teams after updating apps through the market, and then restore the ICS nandroid.
My Galaxy SIII just received the new update which blocks local search, and Google Now won't work properly.
ashshlay said:
This following post only applies currently to the stock rooted LH2 rom for the Galaxy S III TMO and Google Now installation.
The Samsung Kies update that removed the universal search function won't allow this to install via regular methods.
All files are on the device with the correct permissions except because of the different search apk (GoogleQuickSearchBox_USA.apk) the method mentioned in the OP won't work until you delete the _USA part of the file and then reboot into recovery and reflash following the OP instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't open any search links!
This is a quirk in the later apks. You may need to hit the little magnifying glass icon next to the search link. This will allow you to open those links properly.
My phone exploded.
Have a muffin.
Have a question?
Please read this entire post and post #2 for solved problems before you post or you will be mocked. If your question has not been covered in either post, please feel free to describe your problem for us to help you. Here is the proper way to ask for help. Make sure to list the following things:
apk/zip FULL file name
Android version number
ROM
Recovery
UI (Sense/TW/AOKP/CM/AOSP)
/system size and free MB (example: 300MB/60MB) - Since some people don't understand this bit, just post a screenshot of the home screen of Titanium Backup.
LOGCAT or GTFO
Only after you list these things should you describe in excruciating detail what your problem is. Don't report anything that's already mentioned as not working or we'll just have a hearty laugh at your expense.
Back to stock:
If, for some reason, you want to remove Google Now and return to how you were before, flash the following zip. It removes all Google Now files, and returns the original Google Search app and voice files, as well as sets permissions for the Search app. Make sure to uninstall talkback and then reinstall it once you reboot to get voice search working again.
Google Now to Google Search via Mediafire- 2.02MB /Hotfile mirror
If you have a question, make sure you've read through the first two posts. If you don't, we will make fun of you.
Please don't thank me. Find one of these guys' posts and thank them. They made it happen, not me.
reekotubbs, MikeyXda, and Lenny_kano for creating the hacked GN for ICS
homeslice976 for taking on the FAQ
Killer-B for an awesome write up of the cards and commands of GN
slickdaddy96, SinisterChedda, Kameirus, mf2112, jdcasino, Captain_Throwback, xCovErtWolFx757, UndeadSquirrel, and Naddict for troubleshooting, work-arounds, bug reports leading to fixes, and/or just making me laugh
silentstormer for handling the original OP
paxChristos for being our trusty mod
- If I missed you, let me know.
Disclaimer: I am in no way responsible for the well being of your cool gadget. By using any piece of software provided here, you are agreeing that all risks fall on you and you alone. If you do not agree to this, then exercise your God-given right to not flash this. Please press CTRL+F4 or the back button to leave this thread. Also, if you ask a stupid question, or one which has already been answered, you are also held responsible for the verbal fodder you post. You will be mocked severely. I, nor anyone else posting in this thread, is to be held accountable for your actions, wording, or ensuing butthurt. Please exercise caution before posting. Read until your eyes hurt, then search until your fingernails fall off. If your question has not been previously addressed, it will be handled as quickly as possible.
FAQ
1. Is my device ARMv6 or ARMv7?
Generally, new devices are ARMv7, older are ARMv6. There are lists all over the web. Here’s one:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1596800
2. Will this work on my device?
There have been reports of multiple devices and UI’s working. The only way to know for sure is to flash it and find out. MAKE A NANDROID BACKUP FIRST. This way, if something goes wrong, you have a way back.
2a. Will this work on a stock/odexed ROM?
Again, there have been some successful reports of this working on odexed roms..but YMMV - so backup first.
3. Do I have to use CWM Recovery, or will other recoveries work?
CWM is the only recovery that’s been thoroughly tested, though there have been reports of TWRP, EXT4, and others working as well.
4. I'm getting a notification that there is a new version available, but when I try to install it, I'm told my device isn't compatible?
Well, that's because you're trying to install an official JB app on an ICS device. That's not going to work. This is a hacked version, made to be compatible with ICS. Simply swiping away the card will get rid of the update notification. There is no new version for ICS. Please do not ask for it as it's been asked for multiple times. If someone is able to hack the newer version, the OP will be updated. Til then, be happy with what you have.
5. Google Now is force closing on my device, why?
Could be a few reasons. First, make sure you have at least 60MB free space on your /system/ partition (for offline) or 30MB free space (for online). Then check permissions as specified in cajunflavoredbob’s post (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29756226&postcount=2856) (RW/R/R for .apk and lib files, RWX/RX/RX for folders). If this doesn’t work, try clearing data and cache from Google Search, Force Quit Google Search, and reboot. Also, make sure you only have 1 active Velvet.apk in /system/app/ at a time
6. Voice search isn’t working, but other functionality seems OK, what’s up?
You may have installed a standalone Velvet.apk, rather than flashing a .zip from cajunflavoredbob’s post. The flashable .zip packages contain libs and other resources that are necessary for Voice search to work. Once you’ve flashed one of these .zip packages, all you need to do in the future is replace Velvet.apk in /system/app/ with the newly released .apk, change permissions to RW/R/R, and reboot. Though, if you prefer, flashing the new .zip on top of the old one won’t hurt. Just make sure you don’t have multiple Velvet.apk files in /system/app/ at any given time. Alternatively, try the response to the last FAQ (google now remover). Also, make sure you have enough freespace in /system/app/
7. When I try to make a Note to self or send an email from Now, it doesn’t actually send, or it force closes or gives another error..., what gives?
Since Velvet.apk has been resigned (not with Google’s key,) it doesn’t pass GMail’s authentication check. Here (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1199518) is a patched GMail application that will skip/trick the signature check, and allow Now to access it.
7a. When sending a Note to self, it gives me an error about the Audio File not being attached?
Some users on some devices/ROMs have reported this problem. The email will still send, but the Audio attachment (the voice note) will not come along with it. Sorry.
8. Why can’t I back out of the Google Now Cards page?
This is currently a known issue. In the mean time, after pressing your Back key on the Cards page, press Menu then Refresh, and it will back out of the app properly.
9. My persistent search bar says “Google” where the microphone icon used to be?
This is a known issue. You’ll need to ditch the persistent search bar, and add the Google Search widget for the time being.
10. I flashed the .zip, but nothing happened, I don’t see Google Now ANYWHERE?
Just because you don’t see “Google Now” as an available app doesn’t mean it didn’t work. Open the “Google” app or add the “Google Search” widget. These will launch Google Now
If it's really not there, your recovery probably isn't playing nicely with the flashable .zips, in which case follow the Manual Installation instructions in the OP
11. I can’t add calendar entries via Google Now?
This seems to be an issue, but here’s a work around that should work. Google has a feature where you can text a number to add stuff to your calendar. First, you need to setup your Phone as a registered device. Go to www.google.com/calendar, and go to Calendar Settings. Click the Mobile Setup tab, enter your number, choose your carrier (not necessary), and click Send Verification code. Enter the verification code that you get via text, click Finish Setup. Now click Save and we're halfway there.
Now create a new contact on your phone called Calendar, and make the primary number 48368 (which is GVENT). Now you can use Google Now to "Text Calendar Lunch with Mom at Applebee's 1pm on Saturday". The event will be created on your calendar. Doing it this way, you will receive a confirmation text that the event was added as well. Don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing, but either way, still cool....
12. Why won't NFL Teams show up?
It looks like NFL teams are slowly rolling out. There have been a number of reports of users with m7 getting Football teams (myself included). Also, if you have access to a JB ROM, you can login to now on JB, manually add the football team, go back to your ICS ROM, and the team will still be there. Unfortunately in our version it's still a baseball icon for football
12a. Why can't I manually add sports teams?
AS PER THE OP: The JellyBean update for Google Now, which includes manually adding sports teams, has not yet been ported. Please refrain from asking about this update, since all we're going to do is give you a silly answer to match the silly question.
13. Voice seems to be working, but when responding, Now is cutting off the last word of the response?
Thanks to XDA user educ for finding this - I can’t confirm first hand it works but it looks promising and he said it worked for him - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1780585
14. I installed the “Offline” version, but Now won’t respond to my questions when I don’t have internet connection?
cajunflavoredbob addressed this best - “‘Offline’ means that offline message dictation works. Perhaps that should be made more clear in the op, but even the noobiest should realise that searching the Internet does in fact require the Internet. The offline version doesn't magically cache the whole google network.”
15. Double tapping the home key no longer launches S-Voice?
Install Home2Shortcut - Thanks to ilkevinli for the setup instructions:
“Home2 Shortcut does work. Your just not setting it up right.
1. Go into S-Voice settings and uncheck the "Lauch S Voice by double pressing ..."
2. Lauch Home2 Shortcut
3. In Step 1, choose S Voice
4. In Step 2, choose what you like
5. In Step 3, choose TouchWiz Home
6. In Step 4, hit close
Now when you double click the home button, choose Home2 Shortcut
Have fun.”
16. How can I get the “Swipe Up” gesture to launch Google Now?
Some launchers don’t support this. Two that have been confirmed to work are Holo Launcher and Nova Launcher. You can set the Swipe Up action to launch the “Google” app in Holo, and “Assigning swipe up to Nova setting Voice works AMAZING!!!” (Thanks crutzulee). Other launchers may support this, Sense (Rosie) doesn’t. Let me know about any more confirmed working or not working launchers, stock or otherwise (homeslice976 on xda)
APEX Launcher also works "The "swipe up" gesture works well with these steps: menu>Apex settings>behavior settings>select "swipe up">select "launch app">select "Google">"OK">home. Works great, launches reliably." - @gershomww Thank!
17. After installing this, when pressing the button on my BT headset, it launches the crappy ICS Voice Dialer, can I change this to Google Search?
We've come across 2 ways to accomplish this, however, once you default it to the Google Now Voice Search, it won't listen through the headset, or play Now's audio through the headset, this will all be done via the speaker and mic on the device. But at least it will launch Now Search, and as long as the phone is close to you, your mic should pick you up (Now's voice recognition seems to be awesome). Anyone smart enough to figure out how Voice Dialer can listen through the headset and play it's audio through the headset and can apply it to Velvet?
Method 1: Install Bluetooth Launch from the Market. Move Velvet.apk from /system/app/ to /data/app/ and reboot. Setup Bluetooth Launch to launch Google Search/com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox.VoiceSearchActivity. A few users have reported this working for them (though you may need to setup Google Now again).
If after moving Velvet.apk to /data/app/ and rebooting you no longer have Google Search anywhere (app, widget, etc), or if this for some other reason doesn't work, move Velvet.apk back to /system/app/, reboot, and verify Now is working again. Then do this:
Method 2: Uninstall Bluetooth Launch from your phone and reboot. Ensure it's still uninstalled, and no longer in /data/app/ (com.kin.bluetooth_launch-1.apk). Place this (waiting for permission from Bluetooth Launch's dev, Guardian Bob, before sharing publicly. In the meantime, shoot me a PM) modified Bluetooth Launch apk in /system/app/, set permissions to RW/R/R, and install it. Once installed, open the app and set it to launch Google Search/com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox.VoiceSearchActivity, then reboot. Now your BT button on your headset should launch Google Now.
18. Google Now seems to have installed properly, and is working, but everytime I open Google Now I have to go through the setup process where I tell it "I'm in", why?
A couple users have reported this issue, and said that by simply flashing the uninstall .zip, then reflashing the mod, it began working properly
19. Other weird issues? Still having trouble and don’t know what to do?
Try flashing the Google Now Remover (http://www.mediafire.com/?whihy17x6q8l31f) and then try flashing the Google Now flashable .zip of your choice and see what happens.
I would really love to see this. Its one of the features I really think makes JB cool.
The actual file is called velvet.apk and I can't get it to work as it is API 16 (jellybean) and its odexed.
There a deoxed version out, but it still doesn't work because like said above the api, is for jelly bean. We need a dev to decompile find change recompile for ics
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
I hope they can get it to work on ICS, or that my Padfone gets JB quick
I played around with it and got it working on ics. Still buggy and it has no voice support (at least on my phone) yet.
I'll upload the apk later when I'm at home .
me cant wait too.. please devs, do something.
MaR-V-iN said:
I played around with it and got it working on ics. Still buggy and it has no voice support (at least on my phone) yet.
I'll upload the apk later when I'm at home .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll be my hero if you get it to work fully on ICS!
MaR-V-iN said:
I played around with it and got it working on ics. Still buggy and it has no voice support (at least on my phone) yet.
I'll upload the apk later when I'm at home .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll wait for your post
Sent from my Xperia Neo on Ics
http://d-h.st/y44 - have fun
GUYS PLEASE: Search this thread for a newer version before complaining about any errors. If you get problems, please full logcat! - We don't need a spammed thread.
MaR-V-iN said:
http://d-h.st/wst - have fun
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"There is a problem parsing the package".
How to install ?
MaR-V-iN said:
http://d-h.st/wst - have fun
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesthat one work properly? and also on unrooted devices?
Downloaded.
Got parse error on install.
Sorry uploaded APK with wrong Manifest file.
Wait a minute...
This one should work: http://d-h.st/y44
GUYS PLEASE: Search this thread for a newer version before complaining about any errors. If you get problems, please full logcat! - We don't need a spammed thread.
MaR-V-iN said:
Sorry uploaded APK with wrong Manifest file.
Wait a minute...
This one should work: http://d-h.st/y44
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also without root?
---===:::Greetzz, jojoost:::===---
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
I try to install and nothing.
I set permissions, reboot and wipe dalvik cache and nothing.
MaR-V-iN said:
Sorry uploaded APK with wrong Manifest file.
Wait a minute...
This one should work: http://d-h.st/y44
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol you had minimal sdk version=16 in manifest while ics sdk version is 15
Any updates on voice input? whats the main problem of it not working? It's depending on libs or something?
Should I install this as a normal APK?
Yes it does not require root, install as usual app (does not require to be in /system/app)
I disabled some things in voice input initializing code that require api 16, have to look deeper to resolve this, but i have no free time at the moment, so this will not be done tomorrow
The other idea is to port the missing JB apis to ICS, this should allow other JB apps to run too.
@seahorsepip while playing around with jb apps i changed my api version in build.prop to not require recompile any time - forgot this change for velvet...
I was able to work out a hack which will allow desktop level flash in the Surface browser, even on sites that are not approved by Microsoft. So if there is a site that you like, but flash doesn't work, because Microsoft hasn't deemed it worthy enough yet, here's a way to manually enable Flash. (For those who aren't aware - only Microsoft approved sites are allowed to use Flash - its not universal - a site apparently has to be approved and put on a list for Flash to work - basically Microsoft censors the content that you see based upon whether or not the site meets their "criteria")
This hack is for the desktop Surface browser, not the metro Surface browser.
The downside with this hack is that, so far it appears that it only works for one website at a time.
Major disclaimer that you've heard a million times before - Tinkering with the registry has its risks - If you screw something up don't blame me.
How to do it:
1. Start
2. Swipe up from bottom and Select: "All apps" on bottom right menu
3. Select: Command Prompt
4. type regedit at the cursor and press enter
5. User account control appears - Do you want program to make changes - Yes
6. Path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer
7. Make Sure "Internet Explorer" is selected then go to "Edit" and Select "New" and "Key" from the menu that appears.
8. The New Yellow Key folder will appear on the file tree - name it: Flash
9. If you click View and Refresh, the new Key "Flash" should be just below "Feed Discovery" in the tree.
10. Make sure your new key "Flash" is selected (the only assigned value at this point will read: "Default")
11. Now go to Edit/New and select "String Value" Name the new value DebugDomain
10. Double Click the new string value. Edit box will open. In the field: "Value Data" put the domain of your website for example "www.myflashcrippledsite.com"
11. Click OK Close Regedit and your done.
12. In the Desktop Browser Make sure the setting ActiveX Filtering is unchecked. (Right side of browser where there are the Home, Favorites and Gear icons - select the little round Gear (tools icon) and then Safety and then uncheck ActiveX Filtering
View attachment 1439531
Now try browsing your site -might have to restart the browser or refresh your page - its worked for me without a restart of the computer but you might need to restart the Surface itself (Right swipe, Settings, Power, Restart.)
If you have problems, make sure you use the right domain for your website for example www.microsoft.com not http//www.microsoft.com
Also remember this works in the Desktop version of the browser not the metro version accessed from the Start screen.
And like I said above, make sure you don't forget to uncheck "ActiveX Filtering" or Flash still won't work.
For now, to view another site, you need to change the DebugDomain value to the domain of your new site - pretty quick once the key has been made, and shouldn't require a restart of the computer. Tomorrow I'll see if there's a way to put multiple DebugDomain keys.
Sorry if this is unclear, I just figured this out then typed it at 2:30 in the morning. I've tested it on a couple of sites with success. But this is still very experimental, haven't done much testing as its too late - more tomorrow.
But I'm simultaneously thrilled and annoyed at this - because after seeing how well flash works on many crippled sites, it makes me really angry that this function isn't on by default and I have to jump through ridiculous hoops just to get flash to work.
Awesome, have a script!
Works for me with just a page reload; thanks!
I wrote some scripts to automate this (scripting being the easiest way to do third-party code on Windows RT); see the attached file. You'll either need to run the EnableFlash script as Admin every time, or run the SetFlashRegPerms script as Admin just once first. If you put the EnableFlash script in a location that is in your PATH, you can easily launch it from any cmd or Powershell prompt.
I love Love LOVE that Windows RT can be scripted, and that people can run stuff as Admin so easily.
Dear all, I have just found a better solution to this problem.
See the thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=33414039#post33414039
This works on all websites you manually add, as many as you would like without the hassle of going trough the registry.
Wow I go to bed at 3:00 AM and by breakfast there's already a script for my solution as well as an alternative solution - gotta love XDA.
Thank you GoodDayToDie and Marvin_S for responding so quickly. I noticed Marvin_S started a new thread to fully explore enabling flash by editing the whitelist - sounds like a good alternative.
I feel much more positive about the Surface now - Lack of Flash support was one of the biggest negatives for this device and it was really bothering me.
And its nice to see that we have easy control over the OS in terms of changes and improvements - a big plus and bodes well for the Surface's future.
I've tried to complete this mission a few times, each ending in disaster...until now.
Summary:
The parental control applications too are restrictive. Amazon made some slight changes to the Android code which gave these applications full, and in my opinion unnecessary control of the tablets and the security options. Disabling or uninstalling them can and will eventually cause you to reflash stock firmware. That's because they are labeled as "device/profile owner applications". Located in /data/system is 'device_owner.xml'. That file configures the apps as device/profile owners and doing anything to stop them results in a disaster, often unfixable without reflashing stock. The idea was to trick FireOS by switching device owner applications right from under it's nose. It's not easy but it is possible.
This will be along guide. one or two of these steps may not even be necessary but I am going to present them as I did them and was successful. Beyond that you are free to remove steps and try the process at your will. However any deviation from the guide can result in damage to your device. Even this guide may result in damage to your device, because not everyone's results will be the same. From here on out you are on your own and I am not responsible for any damage done to your devices. This will take some time, if you do not have it it is recommended you do not continue until you do. It will not be possible to pause for extended periods through this guide. This WILL REQUIRE a factory reset. You must be rooted or have an unlocked tablet to complete the guide. You must also have the Google play store and related services installed as system applications in priv-app folder. For this it's recommended to flash a pico Gapps package in TWRP.
THIS OPERATION WAS PERFORMED ON A DEVICE THAT WAS DEODEXED ON 5.6.1.0 WITH A 5.3.6.0 (LATEST FIREOS) BOOT IMAGE. This will not likely work on a stock ROM that has not been deodexed.
Instructions:
1. You need to download an application that uninstalls system applications. Any one of them will do so long as it works. You will absolutely need to download an application that does this. Also download a root file explorer.
2. Uninstall the application called 'Managed provisioning.' then open a shell using a terminal emulator or ADB. Then type the commands below.
Code:
adb shell
su
settings put global device_provisioned 0
3. Go to settings > security > device administrator and make sure Google pay is a device administrator. This is very important and you must not miss this step.
4. Using a root explorer, go to /data/system and copy device_owner.xml to your internal storage. If using your PC please use Notepad++, though it's recommended you complete the following tasks on your device.
4b. Go to system/etc/permissions/ and open handheld_core_hardware.xml in a text editor. Find the line that says: <!-- feature name="android.software.managed_users" --> and replace that line with the one below, save the file and reboot:
Code:
<feature name="android.software.managed_users" />
5. Then go to your internal storage and open the file device_owner.xml in a text editor. Replace the lines of text with the text below, making sure the format is NOT changed from the original and save the file:
Code:
<profile-owner package="com.google.android.gms" name="Google Play services" userId="0" component="com.google.android.gms/com.google.android.gms.mdm.receivers.MdmDeviceAdminReceiver" />
6. NOTE: this step CANNOT be done in TWRP. Again Using a root explorer, copy and paste device_owner.xml to /data/system, overwriting the current one (remember to back up the original). Set permissions to rw (0600) and reboot. If there are no errors or popups and your home and recents button still work after rebooting, continue to the next step.
7. Reboot to recovery and clear/wipe cache and dalvik and reboot system. When booted, if no pop errors from anything, open the uninstaller app you downloaded and uninstall Parental Controls and Parental monitoring. Again reboot to recovery and wipe cache and dalvik and reboot system.
8. Again if no errors, reboot to recovery again and this time do a factory reset. This step is very important and cannot be missed. It is absolutely required that the data be wiped on the device or the device and system will recognize it is no longer owner of said device and it will start shutting you out of security and other options on the device.
9. When rebooted, Open the shell in terminal emulator again or ADB and type the following command below. A reboot should not be necessary when done:
Code:
su
settings put global device_provisioned 1
10. Download an activity launcher (I use activity manager and yes you need to pay a slight fee to use the root part of the launcher, but it's worth it.) Scroll settings and search for 'generic lockscreen set' and long press it to open it with root access. All of your lock screen options should be open and available to you even after removing the parental applications. If they are congratulations you have now remove parental applications and the restrictions that came with them from your device. Go back to /data/system and you will also notice that the device_owner.xml is gone. Killing 2 birds with one stone. If any lockscreen options are blocked then you have failed to properly remove the parental applications and the policies that go along with them.
NOTE: You may need to deactivate 'smart lock' and trusted gms as that may interfere with some lock screen options.
I'll let you guys decide, but I think the device is vastly improved in terms of performance and in Internet connectability after removing these applications.
Edit: forgot a step. Can't believe I did that.
Sent from my Amazon KFSUWI using XDA Labs
I must have goofed. I did a factory reset and now my tablet is back to stock. lol
Edit: I take that back. I tap on parental controls and nothing happens lol
Edit2: Yep It's running good. You were right too. It seems like it runs a lot smoother without amazon's parental controls.
Shadow Death said:
I must have goofed. I did a factory reset and now my tablet is back to stock. lol
Edit: I take that back. I tap on parental controls and nothing happens lol
Edit2: Yep It's running good. You were right too. It seems like it runs a lot smoother without amazon's parental controls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cuz I'm pretty sure without the support of manage profiles, the parental applications actually cut down on a Wi-Fi speed. I don't think it's cutting short the connection, rather the metrics and scripts associated with other apps and configs, cause it to constantly disconnect and reconnect. also fireOS doesn't like when you have more than one network saved at a time, in the same area. You can also delete etc/wifiloglevels.sh if you are on the deodexed rom. Can also set the value of the line in build prop for wifi rssi levels to ""
Shadow Death said:
I must have goofed. I did a factory reset and now my tablet is back to stock. lol
Edit: I take that back. I tap on parental controls and nothing happens lol
Edit2: Yep It's running good. You were right too. It seems like it runs a lot smoother without amazon's parental controls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Add: you Dan probably reinstall the managed provisioning app. It might let you create a work profile I am not sure. I am going to experiment with that more tomorrow.
I'd like to add that I am on the same battery cycle as the other day when I started this process at 65%. I haven't been as aggressive in my use as much as normal this weekend but I haven't had to put it on the charger all well and usually I have to do that a few times a week if I really use it.
I forgot to mention that step 4 and possibly 5 seem jumbled.
Shadow Death said:
I forgot to mention that step 4 and possibly 5 seem jumbled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you using the app?
DragonFire1024 said:
Are you using the app?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what app you mean. What I meant was this part:
Using a root explorer, go to /data/system and copy device_owner.xml to your internal storage and open it in a text editor. If using your PC please use Notepad++, though it's recommended you complete the following tasks on your device. Open system/etc/permissions/handheld_core_hardware.xml in a text editor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Shadow Death said:
I'm not sure what app you mean. What I meant was this part:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll fix it tomorrow. Thanks.
DragonFire1024 said:
I'll fix it tomorrow. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I figured out what you meant but I thought I would point it out just in case others can't.
Shadow Death said:
I figured out what you meant but I thought I would point it out just in case others can't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worded it a bit better and broke it apart somewhat. I definitely saw where one would get lost right there. Good eyes!
Hi Dragon Fire,
Is it now working ok? I have the HD8 (7th generation) and would like to eliminate the restrictions of the parental control.
masterted said:
Hi Dragon Fire,
Is it now working ok? I have the HD8 (7th generation) and would like to eliminate the restrictions of the parental control.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Every thing is working so far as I can see. There is a slight delay with some apps that require a lock screen be activated for them to work. I use a WiFi app my provider provides and it requires a screen lock. It failed to recognize it at first. Clearing the providers app cache and restarting it worked.
Sent from my Droid RAZR M using XDA Labs
Hi guys, I got a couple questions about this process...
Could someone who did it already check to see if it is possible to change the language of the tablet? On my own tablet, I get a message about parental controls being required, however my own tablet was rooted and debloated a different way last year. In my case, I don't care about changing the language, and I'm totally satisfied with the results I got.
I ask because I'd like to do this "stock Android look & feel" process for a friend (they do not even have an Amazon account, nor want one), but they need to be able to switch language between English and Spanish on a regular basis, and I don't want to mess up their tablet with mods that would prevent this.
Thanks for any insights you guys might have on this... really appreciate the hard work and vast knowledge represented here on XDA.
Kids Dashboard free app and free cloud (Basically you are making dashboard kiosk like small mdm).
PLAY STORE LINK : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tabnova.aidashboard
Cloud Login: https://cloud.kidsdashboard.com
Main site : http://www.kidsdashboard.com/
Complet free app enjoy dont waste money