Are you comfortable in your own skin? Is your phone comfortable in its skin? Rate this thread to express how you deem the skin on the OnePlus 2. A higher rating indicates that you love it: it adds just the right amount of features, it's visually pleasing, and overall it's additive to the experience. If this is a Nexus phone (you didn't think we hand-wrote all of these prompts, did you?) then use this rating to indicate how the latest version of Android looks to you.
Then, drop a comment if you have anything to add!
While Oxygen OS can be buggy, it is as clean as it gets apart from a Nexus phone. With only nice features like a dark theme and permission settings, the feature set is simple, yet useful.
Its simple yet clean,useful
1+2 | ⓣⓐⓟⓐⓣⓐⓛⓚ | TabS
They need to add features like in cm 13..
They wisely took the Motorola approach- near stock with a few added but useful features. It's perfect, IMO. My ROM flashing days are far behind me.
A near stock experience; they could have chosen a name without adding OS at the end. There are simply not so many features for it to merit an OS tag...
Oxygen it's far from being a mature OS. Specially the first version felt like a beta.
I love the look of Oxygen OS, but I could do without the bugs
Themes option is must.
I would like to be able to remove the Google search bar, disable the notification led while charging and I would like to be able to adjust the grid size on the home screen, with such a large screen all the icons look novelty oversize with the stock launcher.
1. You can remove search bar (long press on main screen --> Options, there it is
2. Xposed module ---> GravityBox
3. Change DPI or also Gravity BOX
Since you guys peruse here and reddit.
-Stay awake while reading/holding
The same way the sony xperia series detects the phone is upright and being held, delays the screen time out.
- Setting to adjust the bottom round corner overlays
There two overlays at the bottom of the screen. Would be great to add some setting stop adjust.
-Hide Navbar
Similar to the GS8 That give you granular control over when it's hidden.
-Auto Pin unlock
Again the on the xperia series, the check mark is removed, so once you put the correct pin the phone accepts and unlocks.
More to come....
So most of the things suggested above are actually pretty gimmicky, imo.
Only thing I miss coming from other phones is gesture support for things like camera and flashlight with screen off. Double tap power for camera works fine, but no way to get to flashlight without turning the screen on, pulling down quick toggles, and clicking flashlight. Maybe holding down the volume down button with screen off?
Moto has the best gestures, then oneplus, then everyone else. Unfortunately, there is hardware support required for these to work without killing the battery, so totally understand if we never get gestures like these.
Those are pretty lame requests.. Essential runs AOSP.
A request that are needed & needs addressing:
- manual mode for camera
- hdr auto toggles the flash on??
- release system images already
- beta program/Oreo
- timely security updates (just getting October?)
- fix touch issues and scrolling
- fp scanner causing lockups
Let's get the OS polished and working better before we add more features
tlxxxsracer said:
Those are pretty lame requests.. Essential runs AOSP.
A request that are needed & needs addressing:
- manual mode for camera
- hdr auto toggles the flash on??
- release system images already
- beta program/Oreo
- timely security updates (just getting October?)
- fix touch issues and scrolling
- fp scanner causing lockups
Let's get the OS polished and working better before we add more features
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean, those requests of yours are already what they're doing, and bug fixes. So like duh list.
As for essential running aosp. They do, and they are already adding stuff on top.
The elegant solution for the status bar is to run devices in full screen, then manually
bring back the nav bar and status bar. So options for that would just be additional to what they are doing.
The rounded corners. They are already overlaying black corners on top. So options for that would just be additional to what they are doing.
Double click power button for cam isn't aosp last I checked.
So hence "feature requests" not just another list asking for "do it faster". :good:
Fix the camera.
Show us you can do this and smash the naysayers. Please don't just throw in the towel and let companies like Razer come in and show you up.
I would like Oreo like everyone else, but keep the guns pointed at the cameras.
There's seriously no rush to race to Essential phone 2.
You have reduced the price and now have the stage yet again. (Not to mention a ton of dedicated customers waiting with faith and phone in hand. )
Seize the moment an knock it out of the park.
This is the perfect time for you to take gobs of consumers away from the Pixel line. Google is against the ropes with its own set of issues.
Now that your price is set where margins are thin, its time to prove your name. Fix the camera and move units like crazy to get it in as many hands as possible.
Essential Phone 2 will help when you user base confidently upgrades ans recommends your product.
I bought an Essential phone for tight finish. (Software & Hardware)
Oreo will clean up a lot of peoples wants.
Again though, make the hardware work to it full potential.
Essential, you put yourself in this position with Stock android promises coupled with exceedingly high end hardware.
If I wanted bells/whistles with headaches, I would have zero troubles finding and OEM for that.
I essentially want you to focus on the hardware and leverage what you have to a higher standard and level.
Fix the EIS
Bring the camera levels to LG G6 results since the parts are the same.
Fix the Camera Icon (The only one you created) - Its ridiculously amateur and sticks out like a sore thumb.
Keep up the AMA's
Stay focused and steady.
Don't just kick the can down the road.
Another point:
I feel you should point out and lean your American roots. Lots of consumers purchase phones from offshoot companies that are created outside of the USA. Subsequently, many of them have been busted by running data collecting and or malicious algorithms.
You will not have more attention than you do now. Get cracking on it and show us what your made of.
Show us you can do this!
I agree totally with Maven1975 this phone is an awesome piece of equipment, I think that the weak link is the stock camera app and the way it processes the photos taken (compression) I have been able to take some pretty good looking photos with the stock app, but both The GCam port and FV-5 take far better pics but why?
Over the past year I owned the G6 which took some really nice pics, I sold it to purchase the S8 which took some amazing pics but I just couldn't deal with the UI of either of those phones even with the themes and the S8 wasn't user friendly for myself because of how I hold a phone I need me some side bezels with how I hold phones. I ended up getting the U11 and I love HTC and the UI but the phone was "big" but it took the best pictures out of the three.
Then the Essential PH-1 came out with it's awesome form factor and amazing quality and design I figured hey it has the same image sensor as the G6 with newer hardware and dual camera setup I bought into the"Image Fusion" hype and figured the photos should be somewhere in between the G6 and U11
Fix the camera, give us a Pro/Manual Mode and Release the System Image
I love stock Android, so keep the updates quick and the owners of this high quality phone will be some of your best advertisement "bang for the buck"
Become part of the development community and make this a "flash happy" phone ..... I come from a time when the HTC Hero had so many options for flashing different roms and apps it was so pleasing make the Essential PH-1 an ICON like the Hero
Rain
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This is Rain, an LG Home+ theme for your LG G7 running Android 9. This theme is a premium quality theme like no other Home theme+. What you see is what you get and that is quality and attention to details! Rain is a dark theme with some bright gradient accents throughout. The Dark Notifications compliment the ui and battery life! The app icons have a slight gradient to them, with some more noticeable than others. This theme does not support adaptive icons as some of the key features of this theme are blocked by enabling the adaptive icons. If you'd prefer adaptive you will need to use a third party launcher like Hyperion or Nova.
No need to run a third party theme system any more, just use the system theme chooser and you can enjoy all the benefits of an advanced theme system.
To apply the theme simply go into settings/display and select themes. From there select Rain, and push apply! then reboot and then reapply the theme again. It's a bit more in depth than other themes but given the complexity of this premium theme it is required for all elements to be themed properly.
That's it! Simple, easy and quick.
This theme is also meant to run at the highest resolution, with the lowest stock setting for the actual display size. Larger sizes may cause some elements to look slightly off. If this happens please lower the display sizes of the iconography.
Also for the power menu to be themed you have to reboot and reapply the theme. Sometimes you may have to reapply it more than once. This is something with LG's software and not within my control.
If you run into any issues please send me an email directly instead of leaving a poor rating. Often I am very quick to reply and great to solve any issues. The review system is not meant to be a support channel!
Thank you so much for your support and I hope you enjoy this theme. I've worked extremely hard on this and by far it was the most challenging and time consuming project I've ever made!
Now for the stuff people actually care about.... Screenshots!!!
Pixel Experience
This is the Pixel Experience. For those who want to enjoy a lighter theme with minimal, subtle changes that want to be able to set it and forget it without having to worry about constant Google app updates and be able to enjoy the Pixel look. This is for you and you're gonna love it! Like Alpha this theme will be updated regularly and will continue to grow as time goes by. Enjoy the clean and refreshing look and experience the Pixel!!! #WhiteUiMustLive
Now you probably didn't bother to read that crap above so let's just post some screenshots shall we?
Pixel Experience (Legacy Theme)
So since not everyone digs using substratum I decided that Pixel Experience should be a regular (Or as I call them "Legacy" LG Theme). No computers, no additional apps in order to use it... You can just set it and forget it! You will get all the features from the Substratum version and then some.
Here's a pic of how this theme looks!
Pixel Experience Dark
Welcome to the dark side. This is Pixel Experience Dark! Including dark notifications! I'm really proud of this and how it turned out! Please take the time to read the app description as there is some important information in there for your benefit which will help you get the best experience out of this theme! Also in the description are optional patches which are theme specific!
So go get it and please drop me a quick rating and if you'd also be so kind to give this a quick share too that would be great!
Screenshots!!!
Since this theme pushes the boundaries of the LG Theme system it retains adaptive and dynamic icons on stock launcher. Due to this you will have to select your navbar color in settings, display, home touch buttons. By default it may show you have selected the dark option, but the navbar may still be white. Simply select the white and then select the dar one again and you should be set. It's a bit odd but that's just how it has to work. Unfortunately there is one app that does not show the navbar as being dark which is the LG Music app. it demands to stay white due to this. I realize some people may not like this so I've also made another patch for users who want it to match. This however will kill the adaptive and dynamic icons so decide which option you prefer because unfortunately due to system limitations you simply cannot have both. Like the previous patch just install it, reapply the theme and reboot. If you use a third party launcher this patch should most definitely be used. link to patch:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tDOIM4dKssw3oOMm6clEBROlGEoOgGt3/view?usp=sharing
I've also included a patch for Light notifications because some people mention that they're having difficulties with some apps like whatsapp or telegram where the user name is black on a dark background or that they have a light shadow around said text to make it somewhat readable. If you wish you can install the patch and the entire theme will remain as is but the notifications will be light and you won't have any issues at all.
How to install the patch: First update the theme to the latest version. Then download the following apks (link below). Next change to stock theme. Then install the apk patches. Then after you've installed them apply Pixel Experience Dark. Next reboot and you'll be all set. If you experience some force closes that is because you didn't revert to stock theme and installed the patches while using Pixel Experience Dark
Patch links 1 of 3:https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=1322778262904028399
2 of 3: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=1322778262904028400
*3 of 3: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=1322778262904028427
Twilight
See bottom of description for Quick Settings Add-on Patches!!!
This is Twilight an LG Home+ theme for your LG V40 or LG G7 running Oreo only (Pie is not yet available on my devices and therefore not yet supported!!!) This theme is a premium quality theme like no other Home theme+. What you see is what you get and that is quality and attention to details! Twilight is a dark theme with bright gradient accents throughout. The app icons have a slight gradient to them, with some more noticeable than others. This theme does not support adaptive icons as some of the key features of this theme are blocked by enabling the adaptive icons. If you'd prefer adaptive you will need to use a third party launcher like Hyperion or Nova.
No need to run a third party theme system any more, just use the system theme chooser and you can enjoy all the benefits of an advanced theme system.
***Third party Quick Settings Icons:
Some apps allow the user to add a shortcut activity to the quick settings panel. This is not supported by this theme whatsoever. If you decided to add any icons to your quick settings panel they will not show up. They will be 100% transparent. They cannot be added. If this bothers you then in a future update I will make an add-on quick settings patch that will add usability back for them, however it will sacrifice the creativity of the current structure of both styles of available quick settings icons. It will be more minimal and all the icons will be the same color like how most themes are. Due to the complexity and advanced nature of this theme this is something that I am aware of and have embraced 100%.
To apply the theme simply go into settings/display and select themes. From there select Twilight, and push apply!
That's it! Simple, easy and quick.
Please note that refunds will not be given for installations on non LG V40 or G7 Oreo Devices. As the title of the theme clearly indicates which device this is for and this app description does specify which OS version is supported..
This theme is also meant to run at the highest resolution, with the lowest stock setting for the actual display size. Larger sizes may cause some elements to look slightly off. If this happens please lower the display sizes of the iconography.
If you run into any issues please send me an email directly instead of leaving a poor rating. Often I am very quick to reply (unless I'm sleeping and you're in a different time zone) and great to solve any issues. The review system is not meant to be a support channel!
Quick tip... Search and install the app "Quick Shortcut Maker" on google play. Install, then long press on your home screen and select the 1x1 quick shortcut maker widget and drag it on your home screen. Then in the activities tab, scroll down to"wallpaper & themes" and expand it. touch 1st option at the top of the list that doesn't have and upwards arrow. Hit Create" button at the bottom and now you have a themes app shortcut you can place on your desktop!!!
Thank you for your support and enjoy theme!!!
This theme as you can see from the screen previews shows two different styles of Quick Settings icons. This is because I designed both styles and had a tough time deciding on which ones to go with so I decided to make them both. The minimal icons are default. However if you wish to change them simply download the corresponding patch to the style that you want. After you've downloaded the patch, apply the default LG theme. Then install the patch, reboot and reapply the theme then reboot again. You will now see a different style. If you wish to change back the original style you can repeat the above process using the other patch. I've uploaded and clearly labeled both patches. They can be found here: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?w=files&flid=288986
For dark notifications it takes 5 add-ons patches.
G Theme 3
Click me for Video Promo
t's back!!! This is G Theme 3. Why G Theme you ask? Well I think you can figure that out when you use it what it's all about. This theme is a premium quality theme like no other Home theme+. What you see is what you get and that is quality and attention to details! G Theme 3 is a dark theme with beautiful colors and designs throughout it. The Dark Notifications compliment the ui and battery life! This theme supports adaptive icons and I recommended choosing circle which is unlocked as a feature and can be accessed from going into the settings application and then going into display, home and choose the icon shape. Due to this the music app does have a light overlay at the bottom which is a bug that LG should address!!! For real LG fix that will ya.
Now this is the important part. This theme is only for LG devices running UX 7, Android 9.0 pie. If you are running a different LG UX or android version this will not work and if you upgrade from the above this theme may not work properly. It is presented on an "as is basis". I do my best to try and update to allow for the theme to function on all devices as best I can and as soon as I can. However due to LG's interesting update cycle sometimes one device may update prior to others.
To apply the theme simply go into settings/display and select themes. From there select G Theme 3, and push apply! then reboot and then reapply the theme again. It's a bit more in depth than other themes but given the complexity of this premium theme it is required for all elements to be themed properly.
That's it! Simple, easy and quick.
The theme comes with a coral wallpaper but if you'd like to have it animated simply grab this add on and set it as a live wallpaper and you'll be all set. Since most Lg Devices don't support seamless wallpapers just download this and install it and set as your live wall and enjoy!
Live Wallpaper right Here!!!
Please note that refunds will not be given for installations on non LG G7, V35 UX 7 (running Pie) Devices. As the title of the theme clearly indicates which device this is for and this app description does specify which OS version is supported..
This theme is also meant to run at the highest resolution, with the lowest stock setting for the actual display size. Larger sizes may cause some elements to look slightly off. If this happens please lower the display sizes of the iconography.
If you run into any issues please send me an email directly instead of leaving a poor rating. Often I am very quick to reply and great to solve any issues. The review system is not meant to be a support channel!
Thank you so much for your support and I hope you enjoy this theme. I've worked extremely hard on this and by far it was the most challenging and time consuming project I've ever made!
[/CENTER]
Instructional video on how to apply Alpha, see below
You will need ADB installed on your pc: Right here
You will also need the substratum app as well as the Andromeda app and the Desktop client for Andromeda
This thread is for support and feedback for my LG Substratum themes and legacy LG themes. with the update to 8.0 Oreo substratum is now supported without rooting your device. Due to the capabilities with Substratum all previous LG themes will be referred to as "Legacy themes" and the primary focus has shifted to Substratum. Since substratum can provide everything that an LG theme can provide and more it makes the most sense to evolve and transcend into the more advanced theming system.
So this is my first theme "Alpha". It has a double meaning and I feel is appropriate for this theme. Let's stop with the chit chat and post a few screenshots and if you're looking for a way to pass the time then keep reading! I promise you the literature doesn't get any better, but have at it!
Oh hey everyone! Again, I didn't see ya there. You just snuck right up on me now didn't ya bud. Well it's that time again. Another new beautiful LG device is upon us and I had to get it. So it must mean it's time for another fun theme discussion and feedback thread. Now I must get this next bit out of the way to make it clear what the purpose of this thread is. 1: I am not here to sell my work whatsoever and that is not the purpose of this thread. Posts regarding updates, screenshots or other communication are strictly for the purposes of obtaining feedback on what I do. and to see if users are pleased with said changes. 2: I will never post a direct link to anything I make that is paid as that is not allowed and I expect that as users you will not post links either.
My V20, G6 and V30 threads are absolutely fantastic and I encourage you all to check it out at some point if you wish to see how I interact with people. I cannot thank you all enough who have supported me and given me feedback and interacted with me in any way to discuss things theme related. Don't be shy about commenting or giving suggestions or feedback provided it is constructive and is done in a mature and professional manner. Feel free to joke around a bit and have some fun. That's what it's all about anyway. It's a very positive and fairly active thread. Users often give me feedback which is incredibly valuable and also post pics of any bug fixes. That allows me to quickly address issues.
First things first to any mods who may be peeping it is important to note that I am complying with xda rules and there are zero paid direct links posted anywhere in this thread by me. So there are no rules being violated. Rule 11 states that I can use xda to get user feedback on paid applications and that is what this thread is for so I am well within rule 11 which can be found here:
11. Don?t post with the intention of selling something.
Don?t use XDA to advertise your product or service. Proprietors of for-pay products or services, may use XDA to get feedback, provide beta access, or a free version of their product for XDA users and to offer support, but not to post with the intention of selling. This includes promoting sites similar / substantially similar to XDA-Developers.com.
Do not post press releases, announcements, links to trial software or commercial services, unless you?re posting an exclusive release for XDA-Developers.com.
Encouraging members to participate in forum activities on other phone related sites is prohibited.
Off-site downloads are permitted if the site is non-commercial and does not require registration.
Off-site downloads from sites requiring registration are NOT encouraged but may be permitted if both of the following conditions are met:
A) The site belongs to a member of XDA-Developers with at least 1500 posts and 2 years membership, who actively maintains an XDA-Developers support thread(s) / posts, related to the download.
B) The site is a relatively small, personal website without commercial advertising / links (i.e. not a competitor forum-based site with purposes and aims similar to those of XDA-Developers.com.)
Be sure to follow me on google plus to stay up to date and get additional theme information regarding updates and other testing and feedback.
So this thread is for all those who are using any of my themes where we can come discuss things, give feedback and post screens etc of what I've been working on. I will continue to add new themes and post screens of my work here and interact with all of you. Remember, I ask that you be civil to myself and other members and keep any feedback constructive.
Reserved for theme 8
Reserved for theme 9
That's right... I'm taking the whole page!
Nice. Didn't think you'd have XDA action but sweet. Alpha purchased. It's gonna be a day or so before I can do the Andromeda thing but I'll report bugs, etc on here man. Nice work as always @MARK Bencze
Thanks! Installed and working great!!!
co.ag.2005 said:
Thanks! Installed and working great!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like you need to sort out a few things still. That doesn't quite look right. Check the lg system resources option and settings overlays. Your icons are a bit off in settings. They should be centered
I have a feeling that when you get lg system resources that your 3 dot menu and search icon might have readability issues if you select the same accent color as the theme color. I'll check this too. If so I'll add it to a list and correct it. Normally the first version when adding a new device we find a few surprises so I'll probably wait a day or so and explore as well as get feedback from people here and then see what I can do.
markbencze said:
Looks like you need to sort out a few things still. That doesn't quite look right. Check the lg system resources option and settings overlays. Your icons are a bit off in settings. They should be centered
I have a feeling that when you get lg system resources that your 3 dot menu and search icon might have readability issues if you select the same accent color as the theme color. I'll check this too. If so I'll add it to a list and correct it. Normally the first version when adding a new device we find a few surprises so I'll probably wait a day or so and explore as well as get feedback from people here and then see what I can do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I didn't notice. I'll check out a few things on my end tomorrow when I have the chance.
I will add then when I followed this instruction (in the play store description)
.....Then once all the overlay's are build go back and select them again and select "enable". I found 9 times out of 10 this is the best way to apply them and I experienced fewer issues. Do this from the "Themes" tab. The "Manager" tab really wasn't needed and caused me the most headaches......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it didn't quite "take" for me, so I enabled from the "Manager" tab, and all was right with the world.
fwiw, I also read through your instructions posted here too before doing anything:
https://plus.google.com/u/0/111385861061275979764/posts/hu6o6pop3w4?cfem=1
Nevertheless, awesome theme!!
Glad to see some mods coming along for the G7! I do have a question though: is it possible to change the statusbar icons to AOSP icons with your mod? I absolutely despise the fugly icons that Samsung/LG/every single OEM except for Google use on their devices. I also would love the option to be able to see p.m/a.m after the time on the statusbar too.
Sorry if the question sounds silly, I'm just not sure what you can do without root/unlocked bootloader on Android phones. Thank you!
Either way, thank you for your contributions
AhsanU said:
Glad to see some mods coming along for the G7! I do have a question though: is it possible to change the statusbar icons to AOSP icons with your mod? I absolutely despise the fugly icons that Samsung/LG/every single OEM except for Google use on their devices. I also would love the option to be able to see p.m/a.m after the time on the statusbar too.
Sorry if the question sounds silly, I'm just not sure what you can do without root/unlocked bootloader on Android phones. Thank you!
Either way, thank you for your contributions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do have pixel status signal icons which are nice and clean and probably what you're looking for! I'm constantly adding new things.
co.ag.2005 said:
Thanks. I didn't notice. I'll check out a few things on my end tomorrow when I have the chance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I re-applied everything and now the icons line up. Thanks again for the work. Excited to see the updates to this and future themes!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/SUc4G0q5XtdRwaIm1
dude, this theme works amazingly well. thank you so much for this. my eyeballs are in your debt!
markbencze said:
I do have pixel status signal icons which are nice and clean and probably what you're looking for! I'm constantly adding new things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sold! I've been able to get the nav bar and the status icon to stock Pixel and am loving it! Just need to figure out how to reverse the settings since it seems a bit buggy. Don't really need a "dark" theme but I'm sure some people do.
Yes, yes, it's possible to love a phone. Heck, you sleep next to it, don't you? Rate this thread to indicate your love for the Xiaomi Mi 9, all things considered. A higher rating indicates that the Xiaomi Mi 9 is an incredible phone that you enjoy tremendously. You love it.
Then, drop a comment if you have anything to add!
I absolutely love the lock screen that shows the earth and moon in sync with realtime. And you can check notifications this way, swipe them away if you want, and when you put the phone down it will go to sleep immediately! And it will wake when you pick it up. Nice little touches.
It's great. Fast, bluetooth is working, sound quality is great, feels so premium, battery seems like it's doing well, the screen is magnificient, the camera fast and accurate. For a phone without OIS, I was pleased my little parakeet running up my arm could be captured sharply, she never stops moving.
So far, day one? I'm in love.
Real review
- super hard to unlock bootloader
- very easy to root then, with OTA and everything staying (main difference vs Samsung - no OTA, no bluetooth, no encryption etc)
- no Lockdown feature, even with external activities
- there's no SD card and TWRP doesn't support USB, so you're broke when travelling, USB flash with flashfiles won't help
- absolutely bloated, incl. chiness apps even in EU version (need to disable all *xiaomi* and *mi* apps, firewall the rest)
- they override every app, every dialog, and modify even innocent com.android packages, so it's super hard to debloat
- insane settings, too much and not easy to read. Easily the hardest to set phone ever
- many of those million settings simply don't work, especially permissions, lot of glitches like double power key to flash is blocked by screen off action
- example of stupidy is battery section, have to click so much to see the chart and there's no % anywhere! Basic value. Like you virtually have no chance to know %, unless you set such status icon. why not reveal % when expanding notification menu like other models?
- some settings are strong, like complex Data limits, AI remapping, call recording available without hack etc
- "AI" button easily programmable via Xposed
- nice to have apps like Music and Video which vanilla OxygenOS skips, but they're weak and no DLNA which is advertised
- volume buttons on the right? excellent, never ever could touch those on the left easily. However no easy shortcut for Dont Disturb (only the stupid long press to mute just ONE volume) and no activity for it available (to let Xposed handle it).. OnePlus wins with the dedicated button easily
- data collection and privacy agreements virtually everywhere, in any simple app (that's why AOSP would be lovely choice instead of XIAOMI ROM)
- battery life is insane when active (like pure 10 "configuration day" hours or 7.5hr with 31hr overall), got mediocre in standby after configuration (no good kernel exists, stock kernel is crap, not aware of deep doze, so pushing Naptime and Servicely at least, so far pushed it to est 78hr wifi_standby vs 178hr standby on 6T! update: pushed it to 267hr in a quick test, but real test req full charge and >3hr standby to be meaningful, anyway potential is there), still early to say what will be final 3g and wifi standby (in progress)
- notification ecosystem is very good (except by default they disabled notifications for most apps!), you can customize popups, AOD magic light (however AOD won't show any app icon for me), and the LED make sure you know about notification or charging (and charging produces very nice animation - very important for Qi to know you place phone right!)
- AOD exists unlike in OnePlus, and in battery app its got its own category
- overall fast, currently the fastest phone on market
- yet another Pie implementation of navbar with some crazy gestures from the left/right which collide with its own GBoard gestures (still the Oreo task manager was better)
- QC charging is fast and supports QC2-3-4 (that is very very good unlike properietary OnePlus charging, who's got OnePlus chargers around? Noone. Who's got QC chargers? Many), fast Qi not working on legacy chargers (not a showstopper as i like slow charge to treat battery right, and will have one 27W Qi for urgency)
- super fast face unlock during day, poor during night just like 6T as there's no infra, however 6T can raise identification chance to 100% with ugly but working display flash
- unreliable fingerprint unlock (same as on 6T, doesn't work in 50% cases and won't autolearn nothing)
- looks much better and less bulkier than 6T even in supplied cover. also 12g lighter but still heavy unlike sweetspot-weight champions S10 (157g) and S10e (150g)
- notch is bad, it cannot disappear smart like on 6T (with status bar still on, yes the newest versions adds change of shape - useless), to add to insult, the cutting of corners is wrong (prepare to see ugly fullscreen with different type of corner rounding)
- camera is poor in dark, no night mode (6T night mode is awesome)
- no IP certification, but ok to clean under water, not ok to immerse as the rubber in SIM card is poor quality, however display to phone is stuffed with branded water sealing solution
- camera is raised a lot, will scratch (the sapphire nonsense doesn't work)
- night mode renders some gfx unreadable, but this is problem with every android phone
- screen is nice, and super bright if needed
Overall hardware is no brainer for the price, software is total crap.
doggydog2 said:
- super hard to unlock bootloader
- there's no SD card and TWRP doesn't support USB, so you're broke when travelling, USB flash with flashfiles won't help
- absolutely bloated, incl. chiness apps even in EU version (need to disable all *xiaomi* and *mi* apps, firewall the rest)
- they override every app, every dialog, and modify even innocent com.android packages, so it's super hard to debloat
- insane settings, too much and not easy to read. Easily the hardest to set phone ever
- example of stupidy is battery section, have to click so much to see the chart and there's no % anywhere! Basic value. Like you virtually have no chance to know %, unless you set such status icon. why not reveal % when expanding notification menu like other models?
- unreliable fingerprint unlock (same as on 6T, doesn't work in 50% cases and won't autolearn nothing)
- camera is poor in dark, no night mode (6T night mode is awesome)
- camera is raised a lot, will scratch (the sapphire nonsense doesn't work)
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Click to collapse
Well a nice feedback list, I just try to keep some points to clarify/to propose another perspective from another users to help others
- there's no SD card and TWRP doesn't support USB, so you're broke when travelling, USB flash with flashfiles won't help --> This is not really a problem to many users, just find a computer and not many people really have a need to do anything flashing without a computer.
- absolutely bloated, incl. chiness apps even in EU version (need to disable all *xiaomi* and *mi* apps, firewall the rest) --> Just put all those apps to a folder to forget it, and don't use them. easy, it doesn't take that much space. In EU rom, there's very few apps like that, and I can avoid them completely without removing or de-bloating them.
- insane settings, too much and not easy to read. Easily the hardest to set phone ever --> I found no problem this, you just change the one you need, in English there's nothing seems difficult to understand, at least to me.
- there's no % anywhere! Basic value. Like you virtually have no chance to know %, unless you set such status icon. why not reveal % when expanding notification menu like other models? --> just turn % battery on that just one tick.
- unreliable fingerprint unlock (same as on 6T, doesn't work in 50% cases and won't autolearn nothing) --> It works 80% number of times for me, of course, can't compete with real physical fingerprint, but definitely not 50% for me.
- camera is poor in dark, no night mode (6T night mode is awesome) --> Defaut camera has night mode, + Google camera is a much better choice
- camera is raised a lot, will scratch (the sapphire nonsense doesn't work) --> Yep, buy a camera glass protector + a case with the higher back which protect the camera
Some info hopes can help others as well.
It's weird that there are actually alternative ROMs, kernels, but not published here. Just installed the kernel with lovely wakelocks disabled. Hope it helps the terrible battery life.
The Xiaomi software is the worst seen while on XDA, cannot imagine it's even worse in non-EU version. Already thinking how life was easy with "configure and forget" 6T except omission of QC, QI and LED diod, which are the huge hardware advantages i'm dying for.
To make this phone usable, one needs to get rid of the software. The horror called MIUI. However switching to vanilla ROM brings common problems like on Samsung (Bluetooth not working, limited fingerpint, limited camera, no OTA). So the best would be heavily debloated ROM published here, injecting some vanilla stuff back. I'd remove Pemission manager, Security manager, clouds. Good luck!
Extra bizzare behaviour:
- if you don't set float notifications for the app, they will never show up (disabled for all by default so have to click hundred times just to change this settings, and another thousand clicks to recover other choices), however if you turn it on, they float notifications will be forced! (like VPN starting, navigation starting - events that never show up as popups)
- if you click clean memory from Security manager, battery manager or even "X" button in task manager, it will kill ALL apps (incl. apps which have highest priority due to notification, incl. VPN!) - how insane can this be?
- DLNA proudly in spec, but their apps can't cast or read UPNP folders, while all others can. But at least they can connect to Alibaba servers...
- nonstop popups about app going full screen (while there's no visual difference! already navbar gone because of Pie gesture setting)
- nonstop popups about downloading files on 3G (they had to touch this sacred group of processes too - Media+Download manager)
- you can change notification bar Setting icon to Search icon, feature mimicking the best Samsung's tool "Finder" except this one is weaker but with ad/spyware . Not only it won't trigger search but also you can't get to settings anymore (what if you don't have Settings icon in app launcher? reflash ROM?)
- boot keyboard.. are you kidding me.. unresponsive, hardly can type password there.. Shift equals Caps lock. Tt behaves like TWRP keyboard, don't type more than 1 character per second
I absolutely love Xiaomi devices but don't use them until I install xiaomi.eu rom. Of course you need to unlock it first and install TWRP but it's a must to get rid of some of the annoying things you wrote on your list. The roms are great and I use it on all of my Xiaomi devices. Check it out: https://xiaomi.eu/community/link-forums/roms-download.73/
razor_amd said:
I absolutely love Xiaomi devices but don't use them until I install xiaomi.eu rom. Of course you need to unlock it first and install TWRP but it's a must to get rid of some of the annoying things you wrote on your list. The roms are great and I use it on all of my Xiaomi devices. Check it out: https://xiaomi.eu/community/link-forums/roms-download.73/
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Click to collapse
The xiaomi.eu is so much better than the stock ROM ?
ManuBBXX said:
The xiaomi.eu is so much better than the stock ROM ?
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Click to collapse
It is the same thing. but the developer version it has no ads, no bloat, clean and fast.
Here is the version that I use, scroll down the page and choose which options you want. This is a custom rom based on the latest Xiaomi.eu developer rom. The only difference is that you can add root and adblock.
https://mi-globe.com/rom-builder-features/?id=18&codename=cepheus&phone=Mi+9
@doggydog2 several things on your list are not correct. You are stating the USB OTG doesn't work? ( It does work) Spend some more time understanding how Miui works and then you will be able to cross off most of your list. Also you would be better off using the developer rom, or the Mi-Globe rom listed above.
tsongming said:
It is the same thing. but the developer version it has no ads, no bloat, clean and fast.
Here is the version that I use, scroll down the page and choose which options you want. This is a custom rom based on the latest Xiaomi.eu developer rom. The only difference is that you can add root and adblock.
https://mi-globe.com/rom-builder-features/?id=18&codename=cepheus&phone=Mi+9
@doggydog2 several things on your list are not correct. You are stating the USB OTG doesn't work? ( It does work) Spend some more time understanding how Miui works and then you will be able to cross off most of your list. Also you would be better off using the developer rom, or the Mi-Globe rom listed above.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no OTG in TWRP that's valid except one recovery ppl avoid as it's Chinese. It's a huge deal especially when you have a device without SD card. Just today had to escape home early to recover the phone..what a new way to operate.
After hundreds of flashes, test of all available ROMs (except this one), recoveries, kernels and full functional check on this particular phone i've a good overview. Overall Xiaomi is a very outdated, over modified bloated ugly software. They should start from the scratch to be honest. Yes 10 years ago ppl would celebrate their extra functions, but today it's intrusive, useless or duplicit. That's why unique Samsung features are now dead (multiwindow etc) as Android implemented it. Xiaomi insists on their irrational UI, worst Settings UI hierarchy in the industry and replacement of everything. There's literally nothing innovative in the UI except single functional extra - data usage control - and you get more functions in AOSP. Few non-innovative things to like? Sure, notif lights, charging animations, call recorder not hidden.. But that's nothing new. The stuff like disabling all notifications and auto starts until users enables it, is insane. Memory management is a joke. Overriding all system dialogs is pathetic. Inserting wait times in confirmation popups is aggressive. Intrusive download manager is good just to block desired downloads from Google etc. Fantastic Pie features (QuickStep, switch apps by navbar) are disabled. Minimal difference in Global vs EU version spotted, i'd prefer global one and delete few extra spy/bloat/malwares myself just because of the ugly icons.
But anyway, I like that webpage. Thanks. It's cool to cook a ROM. Wished the updates were via OTA and directly from OS. They rip some more crap off, which is so much needed in Xiaomi phones. The question is: does mi-globe keep modified 3rd party app icons like Xiaomi.EU? Does Magisk18.1 work? I'd like to try luck with version 18 to improve battery life.
doggydog2 said:
no OTG in TWRP that's valid except one recovery ppl avoid as it's Chinese. It's a huge deal especially when you have a device without SD card. Just today had to escape home early to recover the phone..what a new way to operate.
After hundreds of flashes, test of all available ROMs (except this one), recoveries, kernels and full functional check on this particular phone i've a good overview. Overall Xiaomi is a very outdated, over modified bloated ugly software. They should start from the scratch to be honest. Yes 10 years ago ppl would celebrate their extra functions, but today it's intrusive, useless or duplicit. That's why unique Samsung features are now dead (multiwindow etc) as Android implemented it. Xiaomi insists on their irrational UI, worst Settings UI hierarchy in the industry and replacement of everything. There's literally nothing innovative in the UI except single functional extra - data usage control - and you get more functions in AOSP. Few non-innovative things to like? Sure, notif lights, charging animations, call recorder not hidden.. But that's nothing new. The stuff like disabling all notifications and auto starts until users enables it, is insane. Memory management is a joke. Overriding all system dialogs is pathetic. Inserting wait times in confirmation popups is aggressive. Intrusive download manager is good just to block desired downloads from Google etc. Fantastic Pie features (QuickStep, switch apps by navbar) are disabled. Minimal difference in Global vs EU version spotted, i'd prefer global one and delete few extra spy/bloat/malwares myself just because of the ugly icons.
But anyway, I like that webpage. Thanks. It's cool to cook a ROM. Wished the updates were via OTA and directly from OS. They rip some more crap off, which is so much needed in Xiaomi phones. The question is: does mi-globe keep modified 3rd party app icons like Xiaomi.EU? Does Magisk18.1 work? I'd like to try luck with version 18 to improve battery life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have time at the moment to address every point you make in detail. But I wanted to respond with a couple of brief suggestions that hopefully help. When I first tried Miui, I also hated it. But, I ended up trying it again and again via custom roms and eventually grew to love it. Many of the quirks have a workarounds, and some things that seem to be missing can be found deep in device settings, developer options, or app settings. You can often find some good info using the Mi Community app.
First full disclosure, I have a Mi8, my brother is the one with the Mi9. He travels alot for work and isn't very technically adept, so he is mostly fine with his phone as it is. As you know the Mi 9 is still so new and many of the stock AOSP features will be available to you when custom roms arrive...it will not be long.
The OTG issue that you are experiencing is tied to the version of TWRP that you are using. OTG will end up working and apparently it does work with some versions. I would guess that you are already experimenting on your own to find the right one.
Since no official version yet exists here is one that I found that supposedly works well : https://mega.nz/#!CH5jgYTB!yNqOiVoo3cf0_15jIwZ-btO52cvpOG7iZrRCe19V2Nc and Here is another one: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=79431805&postcount=215
Unfortunately, you will have to wait for a highly stable TWRP to become available that is able to survive through updates and remain in tact. We had these types of issues with the Mi8 as well, and I have had similar issues with my previous phone. But eventually things should work as expected.
I don't know how well you know Miui, some of the things you are missing can probably be activated deep within settings. For example, if you turn off Miui Optimization within developer options you can the install and use your missing Pie features. Such as https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.wellbeing&hl=en_US
I use gestures instead of the NavBar, now that I have become used to it I can't stand using buttons. Also, I do get notified of OTA updates while using the Mi-Globe rom. I can select the rom to download automatically > about phone> system update settings. Once I receive that notification, I will usually manually go to the Mi-Globe page and download their updated version, and dirty flash it over the previous version. Occasionally I will need to reflash Root. But most of the time it persists. I keep a magisk flashed backup boot image in downloads just in case.
I use Magisk 19 Canary and have never had issues with root.
Good Luck
tsongming said:
Since no official version yet exists here is one that I found that supposedly works well : https://mega.nz/#!CH5jgYTB!yNqOiVoo3cf0_15jIwZ-btO52cvpOG7iZrRCe19V2Nc and Here is another one: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=79431805&postcount=215
Unfortunately, you will have to wait for a highly stable TWRP to become available that is able to survive through updates and remain in tact. We had these types of issues with the Mi8 as well, and I have had similar issues with my previous phone. But eventually things should work as expected.
I don't know how well you know Miui, some of the things you are missing can probably be activated deep within settings. For example, if you turn off Miui Optimization within developer options you can the install and use your missing Pie features. Such as https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.wellbeing&hl=en_US
I use gestures instead of the NavBar, now that I have become used to it I can't stand using buttons. Also, I do get notified of OTA updates while using the Mi-Globe rom. I can select the rom to download automatically > about phone> system update settings. Once I receive that notification, I will usually manually go to the Mi-Globe page and download their updated version, and dirty flash it over the previous version. Occasionally I will need to reflash Root. But most of the time it persists. I keep a magisk flashed backup boot image in downloads just in case.
I use Magisk 19 Canary and have never had issues with root.
Good Luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for a good reply.
Yes TWRP situation is tight right now, with "xiaomi9" vs "cepheus" errors, variety of gapps errors etc.. Testing all of them. Good to know this beta exists, i missed this recent info even when active on forums currently. I tried now and it looks great. Luckily on this phone encrypted sdcard doesn't cause any problem with flashing, so i'm ok to wait for TWRP updates.
I agree the full screen gestures are fantastic, i used them on Note9, 6T and Mi9. All of these phones customize original Pie navigation. Once i saw the original behaviour in AOSP ROM, the Pie task manager "Recents" with "QuickStep", and the navbar, i enabled buttons as this is so productive.. Scroll through full screen app previews back and forth, or swipe up app drawer from any app, hmmm. So cool.
Alright, OTA looks great. Although I believe OS doesn't know about your customization, so you better go to the webpage to decide which package to download.
I'm going to try this ROM. I'm not a gfx guy, i hardly ever used a wallpaper, but i really don't like the EU changes to app icons system-wide. I just can't look at 10 year old shortcut like TitaniumBackup looking different. Please let me know if you are aware of a fix. Thanks.
doggydog2 said:
Thanks for a good reply.
Yes TWRP situation is tight right now, with "xiaomi9" vs "cepheus" errors, variety of gapps errors etc.. Testing all of them. Good to know this beta exists, i missed this recent info even when active on forums currently. I tried now and it looks great. Luckily on this phone encrypted sdcard doesn't cause any problem with flashing, so i'm ok to wait for TWRP updates.
I agree the full screen gestures are fantastic, i used them on Note9, 6T and Mi9. All of these phones customize original Pie navigation. Once i saw the original behaviour in AOSP ROM, the Pie task manager "Recents" with "QuickStep", and the navbar, i enabled buttons as this is so productive.. Scroll through full screen app previews back and forth, or swipe up app drawer from any app, hmmm. So cool.
Alright, OTA looks great. Although I believe OS doesn't know about your customization, so you better go to the webpage to decide which package to download.
I'm going to try this ROM. I'm not a gfx guy, i hardly ever used a wallpaper, but i really don't like the EU changes to app icons system-wide. I just can't look at 10 year old shortcut like TitaniumBackup looking different. Please let me know if you are aware of a fix. Thanks.
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Click to collapse
I forgot to mention DM verity, you can get it and read about it here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/universal-dm-verity-forceencrypt-t3817389.
Regarding the OTA, in my case it usually pretty seamless since Mi-Globe is based on the EU weekly build. ( I prefer these builds because they have more features and zero ads) However, the Global Stable to Weekly or vice versa usually requires a little more work. But you are correct, I want to know for a fact what I am flashing so I will usually just manually download the update if using the Mi-Globe build.
Backup
I haven't had alot of luck with using Titanium backup recently on any of my phones that have recent Pie roms. I remember reading something about it being due to some changes Google made with security in late February? However, the built in Local Backup has worked for me every single time except once. It will backup all apps, and many of the settings not covered by Google restore. Its my main source of restoring settings and for me works better than Titanium backup. There is also the option of using Mi-Cloud ( which I also use redundantly) Then of course we can sometimes restore a TWRP backup data.
There are several other options, including free options that are similar to Titanium backup. Programs such as Migrate I have not used it yet. but I have read that it works. Like the Miui Local backup, Migrate supposedly restores everything. Including apps, that are not from the playstore, apps data and even flashed system apps such as Pixel/Sony/Samsung Live Wallpapers and then the remaining Google restore just takes a couple of minutes
Running global MIUI now. the Battery life is great.
The cooked version with Magisk 18 indeed doesn't work. Just upgrade to v19.
QuickStep magisk plugin doesn't work, i keep trying even if it looks like first OS must be able to provide Pie functionality, then you can tweak. Therefore: AOSP only Stuck with this
XiaomiEU app icons can be removed here: non-destructively rename /system/media/theme/miui_mod_icons (thanksgod)
tsongming said:
Also, I do get notified of OTA updates while using the Mi-Globe rom. I can select the rom to download automatically > about phone> system update settings.
Good Luck
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Click to collapse
didn't find this setting, instead i was offered with xiaomi_eu version from today so i downloaded and pressed install which is quite comfortable. The only glitch is need to wait til TWRP installation is done and press Vol+ button (new Magisk 19.1 feature since today) to root with dedicated TWRP button 'Install root' (comfy). Then do some maintenance as many permissions are reset. Luckily disabled apps stay disabled. I'd like to script this and stick to xiaomi_eu as practically there's just miuidaemon extra feature in miglobal.
two problems:
- "can't connect to camera" for portrait mode in stock cam
- TWRP sees unencrypted files, other TWRPs won't boot
tsongming said:
It is the same thing. but the developer version it has no ads, no bloat, clean and fast.
Here is the version that I use, scroll down the page and choose which options you want. This is a custom rom based on the latest Xiaomi.eu developer rom. The only difference is that you can add root and adblock.
https://mi-globe.com/rom-builder-features/?id=18&codename=cepheus&phone=Mi+9
@doggydog2 several things on your list are not correct. You are stating the USB OTG doesn't work? ( It does work) Spend some more time understanding how Miui works and then you will be able to cross off most of your list. Also you would be better off using the developer rom, or the Mi-Globe rom listed above.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This mi-globe rom seems insane !!
Great for the money but with software bugs that affect the usability. Video stuttering at 30fps and notifications issues.
As always, MIUI is the problem from a Xiaomi device.
4 me, xiaomi.eu is not an option, since they use chinese builds as a basis. If anyone known a project similar to him, but based in global ROMs, I appreciate it. Tks!
I think the MI9 is the best phone out there because of
1. Software (it rocks, especially RevolutionOS debloated)
2. Camera (the best one on the market as of now)
3. Performance/Display
4. The notch (I feel uncomfortable having retractable camera + I think a waterdrop notch looks sick)
It charges really fast and battery time is pretty good! Amazing phone for 400€!
Bought mine for 300£ the 128gb version. At that price could have bought a oneplus 6 but this phone is amazing. Compared to the oneplus 7pro the size is great and performance is really good. Will definitely buy again. The only pain is having to wait for the bootloader unlock!
Bought mine 6/128 Gt version at 498 € price. After a week I decided to switch to xiaomi.eu rom and with some additional tweaks (debloating with Xiaomi ADB/FastBoot Tool) I start to feel that the software starts to match with the hardware. I love the design, it feels comfortable in your hands (I use the soft case what was delivered with the phone) and with the tweaks it feels quite snappy and powerful tool for everyday tasks. MIUI mostly sucks but luckily you can use Nova launcher. I've been satisfied with the camera at this point (especially with the ultra wide lens) but I think it can still be improved and I should give a try for the GoogleCam as well.