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Autowipe is back!
Greetings all,
As most of you probably know, Froyo (2.2) includes new phone wiping abilities. I've been working on an app to take advantage of this new feature and I'm excited to let others see it.
Unfortunately for me, I do not have a Froyo Phone! I am looking for some of you very nice people with N1s or Droids that have 2.2 installed to help me out with testing, as the Emulator can only go so far. Most importantly, I'm interested in seeing if the "Subscriber Id changed" action works when removing/changing SIM cards.
Quick description: Android 2.2 (Froyo)+ includes a new administrator feature. The administrator must be enabled by the user before it can perform its actions. This application focuses on the memory wipe feature of the administrator. If your device gets lost or stolen you can set up this application to automatically wipe the memory in the following conditions: failed passwords to unlock screen, SMS password received, subscriber ID changed (SIM card).
Screenshots and APK attached below.
Thank you very much!
Update 05 March 2011:
* Integrated a Test Mode into the app.
Don't mean to be a downer or anything but isn't this what Mobile Defense and WaveSecure do already?
PhantomRampage said:
Don't mean to be a downer or anything but isn't this what Mobile Defense and WaveSecure do already?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that those two programs are updated to work with the admin froyo settings, it's actually what is trying to accomplish.
PhantomRampage said:
Don't mean to be a downer or anything but isn't this what Mobile Defense and WaveSecure do already?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But neither of those apps are free or are supported outside the US as far as I know.
gatsu_1981 said:
I don't think that those two programs are updated to work with the admin froyo settings, it's actually what is trying to accomplish.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can at least set WaveSecure as admin, don't know about Mobile Defense. But still, keep up the work!
i really like this app bro. So when you say wipe, does it restore factory settings? or does it literally wipe everything so that u have to restore via adb or something?
Indeed, my intention is to release it as a free app on the Market to all locations.
adam18488 said:
i really like this app bro. So when you say wipe, does it restore factory settings? or does it literally wipe everything so that u have to restore via adb or something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the compliments. According to the documentation it never specifically says "factory reset" but I'd guess that is what it is doing: Ask the user data be wiped. This will cause the device to reboot, erasing all user data while next booting up.
adam18488 said:
i really like this app bro. So when you say wipe, does it restore factory settings? or does it literally wipe everything so that u have to restore via adb or something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
now that would be nice.... both phone and SD at that. That way if you get someone smart enough to track down how to bring up the bootloader and restoral menus, they won't have anything to work from....
Any update in this project? its really promising. A free alternative to only payed remote wiping software on market.
Keep up the good work bro.
This is an excellent alternative, eh?
Can you please give us a version with "SIM"?
Thanks.
JHPadu said:
You can at least set WaveSecure as admin, don't know about Mobile Defense. But still, keep up the work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
how do u set wavesecure as admin? read something about you can remotely activate gps! how?
I have wavesecure and root access
Hello all, sorry I was away for a bit there. Good news, I've just posted a release to the Android Market. I will update the original post shortly.
Search for Autowipe on the market if you can. Feedback would be great! (This version WIPES, it's armed!)
Good work!
Please hide the sms password with ***, add a cursor and perhaps a confirmation with "password set" or something like this.
And most important a test mode would be great. No idea how to test it without wiping hehe
watercool said:
Good work!
Please hide the sms password with ***, add a cursor and perhaps a confirmation with "password set" or something like this.
And most important a test mode would be great. No idea how to test it without wiping hehe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'll add those too, good ideas. I was thinking if you forgot your password you could check back and see it but I suppose you could just delete the asterisks and make a new one.
Thanks again!
vesperaNovus said:
As most of you probably know, Froyo (2.2) includes new phone wiping abilities.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, sorry. What exactly?
vesperaNovus said:
Thanks. I'll add those too, good ideas. I was thinking if you forgot your password you could check back and see it but I suppose you could just delete the asterisks and make a new one.
Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome. When you need your password and forgot it, it's probably too late anyway hehe
I've posted an update with some of the changes requested. The test mode is a taller order so I haven't been able to do that yet.
xPatriicK said:
No, sorry. What exactly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From the 2.2 Highlights:
Device policy manager
New device policy management APIs allow developers to write "device administrator" applications that can control security features on the device, such as the minimum password strength, data wipe, and so on. Users can select the administrators that are enabled on their devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty exciting!
As usual I still don't have an actual 2.2 device so please let me know if I did anything silly, like forget to let you enable the app or something
love it.......
ty for ur hard work
Thank you for contributing, one request. Sdcard wipe too...if someone is smart enough they can restore my phone with a nandroid after it's wiped....if it's a smart thief that is
Sorry if I'm suspicious about all this but with would you need network access for your app?
Hi,
After the success of the beta programme (over 100 people wanting to signup!) I decided it was time to re-write the platform to allow me to add more features and improve the overall "feel" of it. I also have plans to commercialise the platform, allowing it to be used by businesses/individuals who wish to monitor devices remotely.
The client application for Android is available freely from here and can be included in a custom ROM if you wish to make it persistant across factory resets. I do ask that if your are a ROM developer that you let me know before you do this, and also credit me in your release notes.
There will be 3 main licenses available to you:
Basic
Standard - comming soon
Expert - comming soon
(These apply to your account)
Basic
FREE!
Single device per account
GPS Location
Alarm-on-Demand
Standard
£0.99
Single device per account
GPS Location
Network Location
Alarm-on-Demand
LiveTracking
Includes software updates for 12 months
Expert
£2.99
Multiple devices per account (limit of 5)
GPS Location
Network Location
Alarm-on-Demand
LiveTracking
Includes software updates for 12 months
I am also considering the possibility of an API which a business could use to extract information and use it in their own way. Please contact me if you are interested.
How to install?
Remove any older versions from your device
Install the latest version from above
Goto "http://promethium.mobi" and signup
On your phone, follow the instructions to register your device against your account
Login to "http://promethium.mobi" and have fun!
I haven't moved any old accounts over, so you should signup again.
Enjoy,
Rich
2.0 - 24/01/2011
(uninstall previous version prior to installing 2.0)
* See OP for details
richbayliss said:
Hi,
I have created a geolocation app a bit like MobileMe or htcsense.com for any Android 2.2 device with Market. Allows you to show your device on a map and make the alarm sound, all via a web portal.
http://promethium.mobi/
This site is the main portal, There will be limited accounts to start with, just 20. These will be BETA accounts as I need people to trial the system to get feedback etc. Currently the email address has to be unique, but doesn't need to be a valid address, however this will be useful when you try and report issues.
Once you have signed up, the latest APK for the client application will be downloadable from the portal toolbar. This app will ask for the same login credentials used on the portal, and once connected you are ready to use the portal functions.
Check the site periodically, as I will allow more signups as the application progresses.
Please can we keep all bug reports within this thread, I would rather develop this in the open.
Enjoy,
Rich
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks pretty sweet. Nice and simple. Works well, though I couldn't get the sound to work. It just popped up in the taskbar and said "Ring! Ring".
dwizzy130
Thank you very much
This looks nice
dwizzy130 said:
Looks pretty sweet. Nice and simple. Works well, though I couldn't get the sound to work. It just popped up in the taskbar and said "Ring! Ring".
dwizzy130
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok. It should play the default alarm tone you have set. Could you pastebin a logcat, from before you click "play sound" until the notification appears.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
OK people!
Thanks to all those who already registered, just a few spaces left if people want to signup. Please only signup if you are happy to engage in helping me improve this platform... any accounts created but not activated within a day will be removed!
So far I have made quite a few alterations, improvements to the UI on the portal, as well as more interactive feedback. This means that you need to re-download and install the client app - this will overwrite the current one, and will keep all existing settings
Enjoy!
Very nice application! Good
cazes010 said:
Very nice application! Good
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome, and thanks for the positive feedback!
I would appreciate if you could test out the portal/make sure it does what it is supposed to etc. Post back here if you have any niggles, but also if you can think of anything which might improve the experience.
richbayliss said:
Ok. It should play the default alarm tone you have set. Could you pastebin a logcat, from before you click "play sound" until the notification appears.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's why! I figured it would play it's own notification. I have the alarm volume set to 0 because I don't ever use it.lol
It would be nice if you had a configuration for that in the app or the portal.
Keep up the good work,
dwizzy130
dwizzy130 said:
I have the alarm volume set to 0 because I don't ever use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm. It should crank the volume up to max before it plays the tone.
dwizzy130 said:
It would be nice if you had a configuration for that in the app or the portal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't included an "alert" sound yet, as I thought people would recognise their own alerts easier. I like the idea of adding a customise option to the app though Thanks!
It so cool! Thank you.
Keep it up
richbayliss said:
Hmmm. It should crank the volume up to max before it plays the tone.
I haven't included an "alert" sound yet, as I thought people would recognise their own alerts easier. I like the idea of adding a customise option to the app though Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm that's weird. It didn't change the volume, but when I manually did it, the sound worked. Other than that, the app looks and works great!
One more suggestion though, idk if it's possible, could you have it force turn on gps? I normally leave it off so if I actually do lose my phone, it would just give me the giant radius of the cell tower location...
Also, I notice you're using dyndns. Is the computer/server you're running it on going to be up 24/7?
**EDIT**
One more suggestion, a "My Phone's Location" button on the portal that snaps to the location and centers it.
dwizzy130
dwizzy130 said:
One more suggestion though, idk if it's possible, could you have it force turn on gps? I normally leave it off so if I actually do lose my phone, it would just give me the giant radius of the cell tower location...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, starting from Android 1.5 cupcake, you cannot programmatically toggle GPS. It should be fine to leave it enabled though.
dwizzy130 said:
Also, I notice you're using dyndns. Is the computer/server you're running it on going to be up 24/7?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While I am developing the app regularly it is running on a server I have on a dynamic IP line. Once the app is ready for general release it will go onto into a hosted environment.
dwizzy130 said:
One more suggestion, a "My Phone's Location" button on the portal that snaps to the location and centers it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hitting "Refresh Location" does this now, but it takes up to 5 seconds to move across the map, I will look at making it snappier
richbayliss said:
Sorry, starting from Android 1.5 cupcake, you cannot programmatically toggle GPS. It should be fine to leave it enabled though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm I could have sworn one of those SMS based locator apps could force toggle it. Maybe not. Idk.
While I am developing the app regularly it is running on a server I have on a dynamic IP line. Once the app is ready for general release it will go onto into a hosted environment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perfect, that's what I wanted to hear.
Hitting "Refresh Location" does this now, but it takes up to 5 seconds to move across the map, I will look at making it snappier
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm an idiot for missing that one.lol
dwizzy130
richbayliss said:
hi,
i have created a geolocation app a bit like mobileme or htcsense.com for any android 2.2 device with market. Allows you to show your device on a map and make the alarm sound, all via a web portal.
http://promethium.mobi/
this site is the main portal, there will be limited accounts to start with, just 20. These will be beta accounts as i need people to trial the system to get feedback etc. Currently the email address has to be unique, but doesn't need to be a valid address, however this will be useful when you try and report issues.
Once you have signed up, the latest apk for the client application will be downloadable from the portal toolbar. This app will ask for the same login credentials used on the portal, and once connected you are ready to use the portal functions.
Check the site periodically, as i will allow more signups as the application progresses.
Please can we keep all bug reports within this thread, i would rather develop this in the open.
Enjoy,
rich
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i must say great start looking forward for more....keep up the great work!!! Hey could we somehow get a option to lock and such...will more add on and such be added in the future??,....keep us posted thanks alot!!!
dwizzy130 said:
Hmmm I could have sworn one of those SMS based locator apps could force toggle it. Maybe not. Idk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have read through the SDK documentation and the best you can do is prompt the user to enable it. So kind of misses the point
I have also altered the JavaScript code so that clicking on the location refresh button zaps you to the marker instantly, but you still have to wait until the phone updates the server to see the latest result
xghostyxjokerx said:
i must say great start looking forward for more....keep up the great work!!! Hey could we somehow get a option to lock and such...will more add on and such be added in the future??,....keep us posted thanks alot!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the positive feedback - glad you like it so far.
Yes, more features will be coming soon, including a "Lock" ability. This is quite a complicated one though, might require the user to select a "secure" lock screen prior to first use.
I also thought of some wicked uses for the Nexus S, but that will have to wait until I get time ( here's a clue: Peekaboo! )
richbayliss said:
Thanks for the positive feedback - glad you like it so far.
Yes, more features will be coming soon, including a "Lock" ability. This is quite a complicated one though, might require the user to select a "secure" lock screen prior to first use.
I also thought of some wicked uses for the Nexus S, but that will have to wait until I get time ( here's a clue: Peekaboo! )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GREAT LOOKING FORWARD TO IT..... Curently running off of Nexus One ... will these wicked uses work for N1?
They might work, but no good snapping your feet
"Share files over wifi" (ShareBox) it's a new free tool app aimed to easily share files over wifi through web browser
When using ShareBox, you will not have anymore let friends and relatives take your device to show them your photos or videos. They will see them through their own device, be it android, iphone, windows, blackberry or linux, through their web browsers. And they will only see what you want to show in a quick, comfortable way and simultaneously!
As other devices begin to connect you will immediately know what they are watching through the informative Sharebox log list.
Get it at Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.b6dev.sharebox
Features that makes this app special:
Share the files through browser, so you can get them from any device that has a web browser be it android, iphone, ipad, windows, blackberry or linux.
Only shares and shows the files previously selected.
May be used with wifi networks, own wifi hotspot and also on phone 3g connections.
When ShareBox server is on, you are presented with a URL link to see what others are going to see.
As other devices begin to connect you will know what they are watching through the log list.
Very useful for photo shows as it presented by default as gallery, but also has a list mode that may be more suitable for other kind of files.
Go and try it!
Anyone to provide feedback or suggestions for this application, please?
Came here cause I saw the app in the XDA portal, seems simple enough and ultra handy for the people who really struggle to send files. :good:
I also saw this on the XDA portal. Looks like a great idea; I have to try it out.
A few questions:
1) How do you connect over data (e.g. 3g)?
EDIT: I see the server status page has a WAN IP as well. Do we need to do any port forwarding or anything like that?
2) Can you download the files as well, or just view them?
3) Is there a way to add whole folders?
Hmm I like the concept !
(Not yet tried app - wishing you had a direct download link to fileshare service along with G-Store link)
Here's what I would like to be able to do and hoping your app can handle it.
Share a folder, then view / download those files through the browser.
Guessing http //device.ip/share
adambrown said:
I also saw this on the XDA portal. Looks like a great idea; I have to try it out.
A few questions:
1) How do you connect over data (e.g. 3g)?
EDIT: I see the server status page has a WAN IP as well. Do we need to do any port forwarding or anything like that?
2) Can you download the files as well, or just view them?
3) Is there a way to add whole folders?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Portforwarding is common for any server, u might need to do it if connect to a router
I think u can start the server on mobile network directly
Sorry for my bad English...
Sent from my HTC Desire 200 using XDA Premium 4 Mobile app
Yeah I managed to download the app, with VPN & G'Play..
Nope, I cant add a whole folder.
Every-time I attempt to look at settings *CRASH*
I added a screenshot to share, it shows in PC browser as link, but wont download /open
Looking at path tells me why
http 192.168.1.133:4321/shbx_uri/ictures/Screenshots/Screenshot_2014-10-27-14-17-01.png
'ictures' ? Really
I would rather use port 80 or 8080..
hence why I 'try' open settings, after tapping settings, about 6 seconds later. *CRASH*
The app works perfectly on my Oneplus One, it does exaclty what it says and it saved me from a lot of trouble.
Thanks!
Nice idea and works.
maybe add themes for the Web interface.
let me know if u need any help with that.
adambrown said:
I also saw this on the XDA portal. Looks like a great idea; I have to try it out.
A few questions:
1) How do you connect over data (e.g. 3g)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The connection is made through ip sockets, so you may connect not only through wifi but also through all ip addresses your mobile may has, at the time you turn on your ShareBox
adambrown said:
EDIT: I see the server status page has a WAN IP as well. Do we need to do any port forwarding or anything like that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no need to do any port forwarding
adambrown said:
2) Can you download the files as well, or just view them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes of course! If you do it from your mobile web browser keep your finger pressed over the target file till the contextual menu shows up. If done through computer browser use your secondary mouse button. Easy!
adambrown said:
3) Is there a way to add whole folders?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Adding whole folders may be done through workarounds (using third party file managers or file compression) but is not yet "officially" supported
Oxyandy said:
Yeah I managed to download the app, with VPN & G'Play..
Nope, I cant add a whole folder.
Every-time I attempt to look at settings *CRASH*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please provide all the information you may recopile from the crashes you may have through PM or/and also through google android error reporting, so more information may be received and solution may be provided ASAP. Thanks!.
Oxyandy said:
I added a screenshot to share, it shows in PC browser as link, but wont download /open
Looking at path tells me why
http 192.168.1.133:4321/shbx_uri/ictures/Screenshots/Screenshot_2014-10-27-14-17-01.png
'ictures' ? Really
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could not reproduce your error, sorry!. Certainly the uri is composed based on system path folders names, so don't know why it appears that way
Oxyandy said:
I would rather use port 80 or 8080..
hence why I 'try' open settings, after tapping settings, about 6 seconds later. *CRASH*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you may change the port used through settings menu, but restriction to use ports below 1024 is keeped. As stated before, please report your crashes with as much information as possible.
Thanks!
droidev1 said:
Please provide all the information you may recopile from the crashes you may have through PM or/and also through google android error reporting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I did via G android.
I will sit down later and give you more information
But, dinner comes first
Summary
Samsung Tab 3 10" - Tap Settings - a delay, screen stay same - then after 6 seconds, maybe bit longer, app closes with msg box (every time)
Would it be possible to enable nfc "sharing"?
For example, if I have sharebox opened and running on a certain ip and port, and I tap another nfc device, then the other device's default browser would open up, already displaying the sharebox url.
Kinda like I can share a web url or maps location via android beam, but this time the beam wouldnt be between two identical apps, but between sharebox and the default browser of the other device.
Cheers!
Oxyandy said:
Yes, I did via G android.
I will sit down later and give you more information
But, dinner comes first
Summary
Samsung Tab 3 10" - Tap Settings - a delay, screen stay same - then after 6 seconds, maybe bit longer, app closes with msg box (every time)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, that was a good clue. It seems an error that happens on this kind of devices. Published new version that will hopefully ammend it.
Thank you!
tylerdurden83 said:
Would it be possible to enable nfc "sharing"?
For example, if I have sharebox opened and running on a certain ip and port, and I tap another nfc device, then the other device's default browser would open up, already displaying the sharebox url.
Kinda like I can share a web url or maps location via android beam, but this time the beam wouldnt be between two identical apps, but between sharebox and the default browser of the other device.
Cheers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmmmm, not a bad idea
At first sight it seems that it should be possible if both devices were running ShareBox app with this feature implemented. Will have to study...
Thanks for your feedback!
droidev1 said:
"Share files over wifi" (ShareBox) it's a new free tool app aimed to easily share files over wifi through web browser
When using ShareBox, you will not have anymore let friends and relatives take your device to show them your photos or videos. They will see them through their own device, be it android, iphone, windows, blackberry or linux, through their web browsers. And they will only see what you want to show in a quick, comfortable way and simultaneously!
As other devices begin to connect you will immediately know what they are watching through the informative Sharebox log list.
Get it at Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.b6dev.sharebox
Features that makes this app special:
Share the files through browser, so you can get them from any device that has a web browser be it android, iphone, ipad, windows, blackberry or linux.
Only shares and shows the files previously selected.
May be used with wifi networks, own wifi hotspot and also on phone 3g connections.
When ShareBox server is on, you are presented with a URL link to see what others are going to see.
As other devices begin to connect you will know what they are watching through the log list.
Very useful for photo shows as it presented by default as gallery, but also has a list mode that may be more suitable for other kind of files.
Go and try it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely needed something like this. I'm tired of having to upload to google drive just to port some app that says "incompatible with this version" within play store on my painstakingly slow phone.
droidev1 said:
Published new version that will hopefully ammend it.
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, indeed !
Settings now open correctly, nice quick fix
Thanks
Oxyandy said:
Yes, indeed !
Settings now open correctly, nice quick fix
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks to you for reporting and helping to sort out! Some other error reported by other users has also been corrected after that, so sorry if you see some other update.
Thanks again and enjoy Sharing!
droidev1 said:
sorry if you see some other update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey no problem, I'll just update again..
I dont mind reporting bugs..
What I really need though, would be an app which can share a folder.
(Not just an interface that lets me share all the files in the folder quickly)
Something which shares 'that folder' live..
So if folder contents update 'live', refreshing the page will reflect the changes, much like a web-server would
If I try to add a cloud pic (I click add file, select stock kitkat gallery, click on a picasa / g+ image) the app force closes.
Can cloud pics be added? I dont think that nowadays people keep more than a few recently took photos on their device, both for memory and sync / backup reasons...
Hello,
I want present my new app. that is in beta stage but fully functional: Phone usage monitor.
With this app you will be able to know when and how much you use your device and the apps that you have in it.
Please, report issues, if any, and suggest more events to monitorize.
Thanks
Play Store Description
Are you obsessed with your phone?
Up to what point?
Do you want to be aware of which apps are the most used?
Do you want to know what WiFi networks you connect to and at what time?
When are your applications updated?
Do you want to know if your phone suffers a expontaneous reboot or when you turn on or off the screen?
You need this app and you know it!
Play store link
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ryosoftware.phoneusagemonitor
Looking good! An option to exclude certain apps like Nova Launcher would be nice.
WDawn said:
Looking good! An option to exclude certain apps like Nova Launcher would be nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the suggestion. Great idea!
It would also be nice to be able to monitor a remote phone (opening up the app to for parental monitoring for example).
This could be achieved by either allowing to :
- send a daily report by mail
- having a client app with data synced whenever a connection is avaialable
- sending data to a central server
...
anyway to export the data as .csv ?
Hello, thanks for app!
Any chance to remove "full network access" from permissions in future ?
Heya! Congrats on making the portal. Good stuff you got there.
Here's some suggestions for the intro texts:
Part 1 - Current
"Do you want to know how do you use your smartphone?
You have installed this app, so the answer will surely be affirmative.
With this app you can know with what apps you lose your time; time which you could lose living your real life..."
Part 1 - Suggested
"Would you like to know how you use your smartphone?
Well, as you've already installed this app, that'll be an affirmative!
By gathering statistics about your apps with Phone Usage Monitor, you'll know where your precious time is creeping off to. Time you might want to spend on living your real life..."
Part 1 - Motivation
The second "do" doesn't really have a function in the first sentence and I made it a bit softer to make a more friendly first impression. I mentioned the app's name to remind the user what's going to help them (branding, be proud of your creation). I stayed true to your intention, the reference to 'real life', but made that a bit softer as well by using "might" and not mentioning a negative word like "lose". We're all winners here!
Part 2 - Current
"To let us know this information we will run a service in the background to monitor the use you make of your smartphone.
Quiet!, it will not consume more than a little bit of the precious battery of your mobile..."
Part 2 - Suggested
"You're probably wondering how much battery this app will consume. Don't worry, just a tiny bit.
Think about the time you will save after gaining all this usage intel. You won't even need as much battery anymore."
Part 2 - Motivation
Shouting "Quiet!" doesn't come across very friendly. There's also never a comma after an exclamation mark. I wrote the text to match the battery icon better. I'm also pushing the major goal of the app forward.
Part 3 - Current
"We will give you more information if you let us see how do you use the apps in your device..."
Part 3 - Suggested
"Sorry to bother you but I will need some usage access in order to provide you with all these awesome statistics. Is that okay with you?"
Part 3 - Motivation
"let us see" gives the impression multiple people or a company will be watching along, which totally isn't the case. I wrote it a bit more personal, fun and friendly.
Part 4 - Current
"Do not worry!
The data we collect is NOT sent anywhere."
Part 4 - Suggested
"Do not worry!
The data I collect is NOT sent anywhere."
Part 4 - Motivation
As in part 3, It's better to speak from a first person point of view, "I" instead of "we". It's just the app and the user, "you and me", which is a more comforting thought.
Instead of "START APP" I'd use something more vivid like "Lets go!" or "Show me some numbers!" or "Start saving time!"
The UDPA looks good, people are used to not reading these disclaimers and accepting them anyway. It's also a nice reminder that even if there is a "we", it's literally stating no personal data will be collected on any server. Kudos! :highfive:
I personally don't like the last paragraph but ah well, one has to make a living, right?
Looking forward to those stats...
Timmmmaaahh said:
Heya! Congrats on making the portal. Good stuff you got there.
Here's some suggestions for the intro texts:
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, thanks, thanks!
I have updated the app with your suggestions.
English isn't my matter language
MaXX99 said:
It would also be nice to be able to monitor a remote phone (opening up the app to for parental monitoring for example).
This could be achieved by either allowing to :
- send a daily report by mail
- having a client app with data synced whenever a connection is avaialable
- sending data to a central server
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I need to think on it.
I would not like it to be used without consent to spy on anyone :/
legendnexus said:
anyway to export the data as .csv ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds pretty good.
I have added to the ToDo
panfiluta said:
Hello, thanks for app!
Any chance to remove "full network access" from permissions in future ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, but Internet permission is needed to display Ads.
I understand that you do not believe in my word when I say that I am not sending data anywhere, but I need to access the Internet to load the Ads
Please add export data functionality! Csv format for example. Great app otherwise, thanks!
Crashing
Hi,. Unfortunately the app crashes every time I open it on my OnePlus 6 that runs Android 9. The first time run screens work fine and permissions are assigned ok but then I can't open the app. I have tried clearing the storage/cache and that hasn't helped. Any ideas what to try next please?
Hi
Assuming you're rooted, please, post a logcat or send by email.
Thanks
Peteba said:
Hi,. Unfortunately the app crashes every time I open it on my OnePlus 6 that runs Android 9. The first time run screens work fine and permissions are assigned ok but then I can't open the app. I have tried clearing the storage/cache and that hasn't helped. Any ideas what to try next please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bartito said:
Hi
Assuming you're rooted, please, post a logcat or send by email.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry no not rooted..
Peteba said:
Sorry no not rooted..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, I will try it by my self
Hello
I've tried but no luck reproducing the issue.
If possible, enter app settings then enable debug mode then reproduce the issue then sent the log file.
If not possible, please, contact by email or PM to receive a debug version of the app to track the issue.
Thanks in advance
Peteba said:
Sorry no not rooted..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Peteba said:
Hi,. Unfortunately the app crashes every time I open it on my OnePlus 6 that runs Android 9. The first time run screens work fine and permissions are assigned ok but then I can't open the app. I have tried clearing the storage/cache and that hasn't helped. Any ideas what to try next please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same Problem on my OnePlus 6 (A6003) running Android 9 (OxygenOS: 9.0.4)
max_m42 said:
I have the same Problem on my OnePlus 6 (A6003) running Android 9 (OxygenOS: 9.0.4)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have answered your PM
hi, in my view for PRO version i would like to keep data live for 365days and to export them in csv in order to analize with spreadsheet or other stuff.
thanks
This app is for Beta Testers only
The Google Play app allows us to manage our beta programs but have you ever wanted to participate in a limited number beta program?
(The most common examples are WhatsApp, Facebook, Android Auto and LinkedIn, at least for my country, Italy)
Every time you have to go to Google Play and see if you can access the beta program.
A few years ago (even before the Google Play app had a section dedicated to the quick view of our beta programs in which we participate) I had developed an app, for private use, to overcome this problem, and after adding some small personalization and options I would also like to make it available to this community.
The app is now available on Google Play, contains ads and subscription (subscription remove ads and unlock the auto join feature).
People who bought the old "remove ads" in-app purchase is premium user for life now (no need to subscribe to get the new auto join feature, thanks for the support.
At the moment the app is available different languages, but if you want to participate in the translation you can download the xml file at the second post.
Let me know your feedbacks about it.
XDA:DevDB Information
Beta Maniac, App for all devices (see above for details)
Contributors
Mirko ddd
Version Information
Status: Released
Created 2020-01-26
Last Updated 2023-04-19
Downloads
Click the image below to be redirected to Google Play page of the app
Attached the strings.xml if you are interested on translation help
FAQ and Privacy
FAQ
Q- Why should I use this app instead of Beta Checker or Beta Lister or any other similar app?
A- The first one does not check anything, you have to manually go in Google Play and share the link with the app, which is pretty useless, once you are in Google Play you can directly see if there is a beta and can join or leave from Google Play itself.
The second (which I cannot find the link anymore, probably the dev just removed it from Google Play, at least in my Country) does lists from the installed apps the ones which have a beta version (using the dev cookie, or an alt account) but it is almost useless, because if a beta is available in US does not mean it is available in other countries. And you cannot take action anyways, you need to go in Google Play (app or web) to join the beta. Using the dev cookie means that the app is not aware of your joined betas too.
Q- I don t trust the Google form for sign-in, why don' t you use official Google Sign In API?
A- Google Sign in API generates a token for third party backends to auth the user. The problem is that Google Play does not have API for third party developers to auth users.
Q- Why there is no auto sign-in or Google sign-in?
A- Currently you are not signin-in to Beta Maniac, you are signin-in to Google, and the eventual token you get using those facilities is not spendible in Google Play. What the app does is the same thing you would do manually, no API used.
Q- I don t want to sign in then, what can I do?
A- Simply do not use the app.
Q- Why cannot sign-in even if my connection is good?
A- Check out if you are on a VPN or custom DNS network. If so disable it and login.
Q- Does the app collects any data?
A- The app collects anonymous data (phone model, android version, country) for analytics purpose and crash reports, handled by Google using Firebase.
Q- The app was completely free, why now there are ads and I have to pay to turn them off?
A- Because the most of users complained and rated one star for no real reason. You had it for free, the only thing you had to do was keep the app average rating high enough to be considered a good app, but you didn' t. You had even the chance to donate, only 30-35 people did (and they will not see any ads now).
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=82630837&postcount=314
Q- I bought the "remove ads" in-app purchase, do I need to subscribe?
A- Of course not, you are already a life time premium user, thanks for the support.
and as @mbc07 has experienced:
mbc07 said:
For people having issues with ad blockers: it looks like you'll have trouble only when using DNS-based ad blocking. I personally use AdGuard on my device, which by default uses a VPN with a custom DNS to filter the ads. I normally leave the DNS-based filtering disabled since it sometimes breaks some sites and in fact, by using only the VPN-based filtering I didn't experience any login issues on Beta-Maniac, even with AdGuard active...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Privacy
User privacy
Awesome Work
Thanks Mirko for your amazing app!
I've just tried and I love the background process to find out if a beta version is available. :good::good::good::good:
fulvius31 said:
Thanks Mirko for your amazing app!
I've just tried and I love the background process to find out if a beta version is available. :good::good::good::good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you fulvius
Nice,cool. thanks
danilo_scala said:
Nice,cool. thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you Danilo, for any problems or question refer to third post or share with us your experience.
Mirko ddd said:
- strings.xml for people interested on translation help
- beta-maniac.apk for installing
- beta-maniac-2.apk for installing (update)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If not already contributed, here's the french translated strings file.
If I may report that small issue :
Despite using XDA adfree version of your very welcomed app, I noticed it couldn't get past the post log-in screen (got No connection / Try again - with no avail') if device is connected with ad-blocking private DNS on Android 9+) or to a router set with ad-blocking DNS.
No biggy but took quite some time to figure out the reason.
You might want to change that or add a message to let users know their ad-blocker prevents the app from going further.
After initial set up though, it's working fine with or without DNS ad-blocking.
VPN usage was not an issue for me, only DNS level ad-blocking.
(Tested with v1)
~El Julio~ said:
If not already contributed, here's the french translated strings file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow nice! I added a new string (forgot to upload newer one). Could you translate it on the fly?
No connection, if you are using a VPN or a custom DNS you will not be able to login. Disable it and try again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
~El Julio~ said:
If I may report that small issue :
Despite using XDA adfree version of your very welcomed app, I noticed it couldn't get past the post log-in screen (got No connection / Try again - with no avail') if device is connected with ad-blocking private DNS on Android 9+) or to a router set with ad-blocking DNS.
No biggy but took quite some time to figure out the reason.
You might want to change that or add a message to let users know their ad-blocker prevents the app from going further.
After initial set up though, it's working fine with or without DNS ad-blocking.
VPN usage was not an issue for me, only DNS level ad-blocking.
(Tested with v1)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
check out third post, is explained
Mirko ddd said:
Wow nice! I added a new string (forgot to upload newer one). Could you translate it on the fly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Certainly, ? funny it's related to that
"Aucune connexion. Si vous êtes connecté via un VPN et/ou utilisant un DNS personnalisé, la connexion échouera. Désactivez le(s) et réessayez."
---------- Post added at 04:41 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:36 PM ----------
Mirko ddd said:
check out third post, is explained
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had but since a basic VPN connection didn't harm my attempt on my first device running Oreo, I had assumed it was a broad statement to cover possible issues but it seemed to be mostly related to the ads mechanism in place in your code.
Just wished to help by clarifying.
(IMO however, having to turn a VPN or a custom DNS setting off, even temporarily, should not be forced on any user for doing so given the privacy implications some might want to maintain)
~El Julio~ said:
Certainly, funny it's related to that
"Aucune connexion. Si vous êtes connecté via un VPN et/ou utilisant un DNS personnalisé, la connexion échouera. Désactivez le(s) et réessayez."
---------- Post added at 04:41 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:36 PM ----------
I had but since a basic VPN connection didn't harm my attempt on my first device running Oreo, I had assumed it was a broad statement to cover possible issues but it seemed to be mostly related to the ads mechanism in place in your code.
Just wished to help by clarifying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh man, when there s an apostrophe you shoul escape the apostrophe like in "I have" "j/'ai". As soon as I complete to escape the apostrophe i will attach the translated version and credits to you for help
Mirko ddd said:
oh man, when there s an apostrophe you shoul escape the apostrophe like in "I have" "j/'ai". As soon as I complete to escape the apostrophe i will attach the translated version and credits to you for help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry this caused you such trouble. I just can't avoid using french correctly though.. (yeah we can be PITAs for many things ?, I know.) I mean, without the apostrophe, it's not proper french so hoping to see them in displayed text for french locales.
Apologies again.
Mirko ddd said:
- strings.xml for people interested on translation help
- beta-maniac.apk for installing
- beta-maniac-2.apk for installing (update)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello I've installed 1st apk on my Redmi Note 3 pro (Kenzo) MIUI 10 with Android 6.0.1 .
The app crashes instantly. Also installed 2nd apk but it gives same problem.
ishreyas said:
Hello I've installed 1st apk on my Redmi Note 3 pro (Kenzo) MIUI 10 with Android 6.0.1 .
The app crashes instantly. Also installed 2nd apk but it gives same problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for reporting. as soon as the crash logs are available on my console i will fix and update the app as well
~El Julio~ said:
Sorry this caused you such trouble. I just can't avoid using french correctly though.. (yeah we can be PITAs for many things , I know.) I mean, without the apostrophe, it's not proper french so hoping to see them in displayed text for french locales.
Apologies again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol, nope, I didn t mean that, just saying that there s a correct way to use apostrophe in xml. I uploaded the app with your translation, go check everything is fine.
Mirko ddd said:
lol, nope, I didn t mean that, just saying that there s a correct way to use apostrophe in xml. I uploaded the app with your translation, go check everything is fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, that. Well, sorry anyways : I used Solid Explorer to do that while commuting before even testing your app prior to doing so.
(Also, I don't know what that correct way of using them is in XML, is this its ASCII character that should be used ?)
I checked quickly without deleting app's data so don't know about initial setup text.
But there's a typo :
"Bêtas fermée uniquement" should be "Bêtas fermées uniquement"
There's also a setting title I imprecisely translated :
"Liste des filtres" should be "Filtrer la liste" to actually be meaningful.
Spotted the "system" choice related to the theme settings in the strings but can't yet see it in the app.
Finally, I spoke too soon as for the VPN/DNS issue :
It indeed prevents from entering any app's beta program page setting in the app but Scans can and will be performed normally.
I do reiterate my previous statement regarding having to disable either or both in order for your app to work. It's a radical setup change impacting all apps for just one to work normally..
~El Julio~ said:
Oh, that. Well, sorry anyways : I used Solid Explorer to do that while commuting before even testing your app prior to doing so.
(Also, I don't know what that correct way of using them is in XML, is this its ASCII character that should be used ?)
I checked quickly without deleting app's data so don't know about initial setup text.
But there's a typo :
"Bêtas fermée uniquement" should be "Bêtas fermées uniquement"
There's also a setting title I imprecisely translated :
"Liste des filtres" should be "Filtrer la liste" to actually be meaningful.
Spotted the "system" choice related to the theme settings in the strings but can't yet see it in the app.
Finally, I spoke too soon as for the VPN/DNS issue :
It indeed prevents from entering any app's beta program page setting in the app but Scans can and will be performed normally.
I do reiterate my previous statement regarding having to disable either or both in order for your app to work. It's a radical setup change impacting all apps for just one to work normally..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
fixed the strings. Anyway no, it s not an ascii problem, it s just the android requirement to put slashes before apostrophe. I use a normal network, so I didn t figured out this problem before today, I know that only by feedbacks. I ll upload the app with translation fixed
Mirko ddd said:
fixed the strings. Anyway no, it s not an ascii problem, it s just the android requirement to put slashes before apostrophe. I use a normal network, so I didn t figured out this problem before today, I know that only by feedbacks. I ll upload the app with translation fixed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, gotcha. I'm obviously no dev, just a glad-to-learn enthusiast so thanks for that.
Thanks and sorry again for those typos/mistranslation hence the extra work.