Database Info

JXD S7100 Android Gaming Tablet

There has been a little conversation about this new device in the Yinlips G18 thread, but I thought it deserved it's own space.
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"lightbox_download": "Download",
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Specs:
CPU: 800MHz ARM Cortex A9 (single-core) + Mali 400 GPU
RAM: 512MB DDR2
Storage: 8GB internal (6.25GB available to the user) + microSD slot
Display: 7" 800x480 touch screen
OS: Google Android 2.2 (with some launcher modifications)
Connectivity: WiFi 802.11b/g/n + miniUSB with OTG capability (adapter included)
Included emulators: Arcade games, Nintendo 64 games, Sony PS1 games, Nintendo GBA games, Sega MD games
Camera: Dual Camera (Front: 0.3M pixels, Back: 2.0M pixels)
On line video: Supports Flash (Youtube, TED mobile, BBC news etc)
TV out: mini-HIMI output
Accelerometer: Yes
Audio: Stereo speakers + headphone jack
Dimensions: 238.5x121.7x12.35mm - 16.0oz​
Manufacturer's product page
Rooting / Google Market install instructions (thanks jutley)
Firmware update/restore instructions - Note that the S7100 is available in either a resistive or (slightly more expensive) capacitive touchscreen version. The ROMs for these two versions are not intercompatible. Make sure you get the correct update. (thanks blokenfeffer)
Starfox 64 demo:
More information will be added as it becomes available.

Quick walkthrough on how to replace the stock emulators on the S7100.
Disclaimer as usual: everything here is at your OWN RISK.
I'll be using Gensoid as an example, as this emulator refused to launch for me out of the box.
Requirements:
Rooted S7100.
File explorer with root permissions.
Gensoid replacement.
1) Once your device is rooted, you'll need to grab a file explorer. The explorer I use is ES File Explorer.
2) Download Gensoid. For this example, place this on the root of your SD card. As long as you can find this file in ES Explorer, it doesn't really matter where you put it.
Instructions:
Launch ES File Explorer, press the menu button and change the following options:
Change Home Directory to /
Check Root Explorer to enabled
Check Mount File System to enabled
Back out of the settings and navigate to the following directory:
/system/app​
Long press on Gnes4droid.apk and rename it to Gnes4droid.apkbak
Navigate to /system/libs/ and rename the folder Gnes4droid to Gnes4droidbak
Now power off the S7100 and power it back up again, if you do not power off installation in the next step will fail.
Launch ES File Explorer again and find the APK for Gensoid that you downloaded previously and press it. It should now offer to install the application, follow the on screen steps and you should have successfully replaced the preloaded version of Gensoid.
Any games you have should still autmoatically launch from the Game Center icons and the MD lists, but adds the advantage of having a launcher icon for the emulator itself, should you wish to customise your device with another launcher.
This should work for any preloaded emulator that you wish to replace with a previous version. Do NOT delete the other emulators just incase you want to revert.
If you have any issues, you can always undo the renaming operations above.

I ordered one of these things a few weeks ago, and finally got it in the mail, but it doesn't boot; it sits at a blank white screen. Any thoughts?

nsigma said:
I ordered one of these things a few weeks ago, and finally got it in the mail, but it doesn't boot; it sits at a blank white screen. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried booting into recovery and loading factory defaults? I read about someone who had a similar issue.
Which website did you buy it from?
If factory defaults don't work you could also try downloading f/w above and reloading it.
To get into recovery (courtesy of Jutleys via apad forum):
Press and hold the Menu button, keep the Menu button pressed and now press the Power on button. The "upgrading please wait" message will be displayed.The menu will be displayed. Use the Volume + and - buttons to navigate the menu options.From the menu you can perform the following functions:Wipe data/factory reset.Yes-delete all user data.Wipe cache partition.Wipe media storage partition.Apply SD-card update.zip.
From the menu choose "Apply SD-card update.zip" select the option using the Back button. Wait while the tablet reflashes. Ensure the battery is fully charged or the power cable is connected before starting the reflash process. After the reflash is complete. Press the Back button to reboot the tablet.

I just ordered one of these. Sounds perfect since I am delevoping games for Android, and this is a mix of everything Android it seems.
I got just about all Emulators for Android, so I hope to test how well they will work on this. Amiga, C64, almost all Segas, most Nintendo, DosBox and Playstation 1. I just worry that it might be too low quality and won't work at all.

nsigma said:
I ordered one of these things a few weeks ago, and finally got it in the mail, but it doesn't boot; it sits at a blank white screen. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just posted a reply to you over on apad forums. It's probably not a software issue, but I've posted a screenshot on that thread to see if you can get some sound out of the machine.

JXD S7100 ADW Launcher & Custom icons
Just got mine a couple days ago...
First thing i did was root, install market, and got rid of that horrible launcher it comes with, replaced it with ADW, and i also made a few custom icons for games and emulators, still working on more. Heres a pic

SwayProductions said:
Just got mine a couple days ago...
First thing i did was root, install market, and got rid of that horrible launcher it comes with, replaced it with ADW, and i also made a few custom icons for games and emulators, still working on more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When u say u got rid of the launcher, can u completely remove it or just use adw instead?
Reason bring is I installed go launcher but the original still resides.
Also do u know how to get rid if the Chinese market and crap? I replaced some default emulators with new versions by renaming originals in system/app folder but can't see anything fire the Chinese stuff.

I did not completely remove it but I beleive you can use titanium backup, I used it to remove all the Chinese apps and everything else I didn't need
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using XDA App

wozz9192 said:
When u say u got rid of the launcher, can u completely remove it or just use adw instead?
Reason bring is I installed go launcher but the original still resides.
Also do u know how to get rid if the Chinese market and crap? I replaced some default emulators with new versions by renaming originals in system/app folder but can't see anything fire the Chinese stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wouldn't be wise to remove their launcher entirely. If you use an alternative launcher though, you can set it as the default launcher which effectively does the same thing anyway.
Settings > applications > all > launcher > clear defaults on "Launch by default".
Next time you press HOME, it will ask you which app to use as your default launcher, set it to Go Launcher and it'll be the default launcher from boot.
To reverse this if you have any issues, repeat the steps above and select Go Launcher to clear defaults, instead of launcher.
---------- Post added at 11:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:52 PM ----------
SwayProductions said:
Just got mine a couple days ago...
First thing i did was root, install market, and got rid of that horrible launcher it comes with, replaced it with ADW, and i also made a few custom icons for games and emulators, still working on more. Heres a pic
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice looking homescreen, you should post up any other changes you make

JXD s7100 Bluetooth Support?
Does anyone know if this device supports Bluetooth? I read on another forum that there is a firmware upgrade for the resistive screen model that has Bluetooth in the caption. If the device does have Bluetooth, does this mean it's only in the resistive screen model? Maybe only later releases of the device received the Bluetooth capability (resistive and capacitive)? Thanks for any information.

breakingpoint72 said:
Does anyone know if this device supports Bluetooth? I read on another forum that there is a firmware upgrade for the resistive screen model that has Bluetooth in the caption. If the device does have Bluetooth, does this mean it's only in the resistive screen model? Maybe only later releases of the device received the Bluetooth capability (resistive and capacitive)? Thanks for any information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There seems to be a few different models out there and seemingly one of them has bluetooth. I'm not aware of where this model is being sold though, as almost nobody seems to have a bluetooth enabled model.
My capacitive model doesn't have bluetooth and looking at the restive models other users have, theirs don't have it either.
Fairly sure this isn't a stock upgrade for later releases though, rather another SKU.

JXD s7100 Bluetooth support?
blokenfeffer said:
There seems to be a few different models out there and seemingly one of them has bluetooth. I'm not aware of where this model is being sold though, as almost nobody seems to have a bluetooth enabled model.
My capacitive model doesn't have bluetooth and looking at the restive models other users have, theirs don't have it either.
Fairly sure this isn't a stock upgrade for later releases though, rather another SKU.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Blokenfeffer for the information.
One thing I find that is strange though. The following sites list that it does have Bluetooth. Sorry I could not link to the entire URL. The forum has yet to give me the privilege to do so.
ownta.com
lettouch.com
r4shop.co.uk
Do you think that this is an error on their part? They have had this same information on their site since the launch of the device.

breakingpoint72 said:
Thanks Blokenfeffer for the information.
One thing I find that is strange though. The following sites list that it does have Bluetooth. Sorry I could not link to the entire URL. The forum has yet to give me the privilege to do so.
ownta.com
lettouch.com
r4shop.co.uk
Do you think that this is an error on their part? They have had this same information on their site since the launch of the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's possibly an error, or they could have the bluetooth model. Mine has bluetooth sharing running in the background, but there's no bluetooth hardware in the machine that I'm aware of.
There are definitely 3 different firmware revisions on the JXD site though, including bluetooth and none bluetooth versions.

JXD s7100 Bluetooth Support?
blokenfeffer said:
It's possibly an error, or they could have the bluetooth model. Mine has bluetooth sharing running in the background, but there's no bluetooth hardware in the machine that I'm aware of.
There are definitely 3 different firmware revisions on the JXD site though, including bluetooth and none bluetooth versions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again, blokenfeffer. That answers my question to why I saw a picture on JXD's website with the Bluetooth symbol running in the notification bar. It must have just been running in the software, yet it does not have the actual hardware to support it. I guess I'll just have to wait and see if the new units coming out have Bluetooth or not.

Mine definitely does not have bluetooth. Interestingly, it thinks it has GPS, but even after spending 10 very cold minutes outside with the device pointed at the sky, I could not get a single satellite signal. So I suspect that radio is not present either.

Lots of tinkering!
I have been following this thread since its introduction and appreciate all the tips and tricks that have been very helpful. I thought I would add my findings to the thread.
I finally got current location working in the browser and on wifi.
After countless try's I have found a reliable networklocation.apk that works..
- 1 First you must be rooted
- 2 In order to get it to work google search tiadroid6.1 and its the first link that pops up.
- 3 Extract the file networklocation.apk and using (es file explorer or similiar app) and add it to your /system/apps folder
- 4 shutdown and reboot your device
Volia! enjoy!
Things I have currently done
- Rooted/Market via visionary
- Changed boot screen
- ICS Keyboard (must have)
- Removed Badiu and all the factory launcher and junk (makes this thing pretty snappy)
- Netflix works great
- Skype works but hangs at times
Problems I'm currently working
- factory camera app is really screwy I downloaded HDR app from the market and it appears to work fine so I'm hoping its software
When I load it I sit at a blank screen regardless of which camera I have selected. Sometimes I can get it to work by going to video and clicking the mms video option.
- GTA III boots and loads just fine plays the entire movie and will sometimes even let you play for a minute or two then crashes with an android process error

I *had* Bluetooth on mine untill I dared to update it with one of the firmware on JXD's website

UPDATE:
Fixed my camera problem and with chainfire 3D most games work really well on this thing. For those that have sporadic camera issues make sure that you don't have the screen locked and that the screen rotates.
I'm crossing my fingers to get gingerbread on this device so that we can use OnLive gaming.
Also I have been messing with power profiles and am seeing better battery life in the 4+ hr range.
The charger that came with it died so I'm in the process of building another one. So more to come once I can charge this thing!
---------- Post added at 07:35 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:20 PM ----------
Amon_Re
Quick question about your bluetooth. Did you actually have it working? If so have you taken apart to get the BT chip info by chance to try and recover that functionality?

CrazylegsFE said:
Quick question about your bluetooth. Did you actually have it working? If so have you taken apart to get the BT chip info by chance to try and recover that functionality?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I could turn it on & off, it seemed to be responding properly, was going to test some bluetooth gadgets after the firmware upgrade but alas...
I haven't taken the thing apart yet, I'm mailing back & forth with JXD at the moment to see if they can help, if that fails though I probably will take it apart.

[APP][IR] ONE To Remote Them All [4000+ User Codes][45'000+ preloaded Codes]

Hi guys,
i'm developing an universal IR remote control. ATM its only working on the HTC ONE and i'm trying to port it to the Galaxy S4 (except the learning function).
The original thread is here:
ONE to remote them all
Got some confirms that it works on the S4 and the Galaxy Tab 8.0.
Please use this APK
http://otrta.nibdev.com/beta/ONEtoRemoteThemAllV2.apk
And follow the thread in the HTC ONE forum if you are interested in updates.

antifish said:
Hi guys,
i'm developing an universal IR remote control. ATM its only working on the HTC ONE and i'm trying to port it to the Galaxy S4 (except the learning function).
The original thread is here:
ONE to remote them all
If you are interessted to try an .APK which should support the S4 (and other Samsung IR enabled devices), send me a PM.
When its confirmed working i'll publish an update and rename the thread correct
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
is this app going to have IR learning skills? i ask so because there are many devices which are not listed and there are also a few million devices from china which are not listed. IR learning would me great. Maybe some hardware tweak with IR receivers and using USB OTG or learning the IR codes via the camera or something similar?

francisdsa said:
is this app going to have IR learning skills? i ask so because there are many devices which are not listed and there are also a few million devices from china which are not listed. IR learning would me great. Maybe some hardware tweak with IR receivers and using USB OTG or learning the IR codes via the camera or something similar?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont think IR learning is support for the Galaxy S4, at least not until someone finds out how. As i dont have a S4, i cant to any reverse enigneering.
Which devices / brands are missing? Did you tried the new DB with 45'000 codes and had a look if they are listed there?
On the other side, that Database would actually have been bigger, but i cut out all brands which i could not read (chinese, arabic, etc).
There are codes for chinese cableboxes i think, at least brands like:
惠州
珠江
东莞
东莞
黑龙江
山东
(+ a lot of others)
as i dont have any clue what these signs should mean, i delted them out

I9500 test
Not working

haririan said:
Not working
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You dont have the right apk if you dont send me a PM..

antifish said:
I dont think IR learning is support for the Galaxy S4, at least not until someone finds out how. As i dont have a S4, i cant to any reverse enigneering.
Which devices / brands are missing? Did you tried the new DB with 45'000 codes and had a look if they are listed there?
On the other side, that Database would actually have been bigger, but i cut out all brands which i could not read (chinese, arabic, etc).
There are codes for chinese cableboxes i think, at least brands like:
惠州
珠江
东莞
东莞
黑龙江
山东
(+ a lot of others)
as i dont have any clue what these signs should mean, i delted them out
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's nice. But there are cheap chinese DVD players, media players, televisions, etc that work on IR remotes and the codes will not match all of them. Maybe if a simple interface for most uses like next, back, menu, volume, play, pause, forward, reverse, stop, power and mute are the must have buttons.
well i shall try the app and let you know if i am haveing issues.
Thanks for the reply though

francisdsa said:
That's nice. But there are cheap chinese DVD players, media players, televisions, etc that work on IR remotes and the codes will not match all of them. Maybe if a simple interface for most uses like next, back, menu, volume, play, pause, forward, reverse, stop, power and mute are the must have buttons.
well i shall try the app and let you know if i am haveing issues.
Thanks for the reply though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I send you the link to the APK for testing.
Again, the APK in the HTC ONE forum will force close immediatly on the S4

antifish said:
I send you the link to the APK for testing.
Again, the APK in the HTC ONE forum will force close immediatly on the S4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not get any link for the app.
can you resend it?
thanks

francisdsa said:
I did not get any link for the app.
can you resend it?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent again

antifish said:
Sent again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did not get any error message. the app started and showed me a complete tabular list of the brand names. no error so far. but have nothing to test it on. Am at work. will go home and try on devices at home. will get back tomorrow
thanks
is there any other skinned layout for the buttons. this one seems very hectic

francisdsa said:
Did not get any error message. the app started and showed me a complete tabular list of the brand names. no error so far. but have nothing to test it on. Am at work. will go home and try on devices at home. will get back tomorrow
thanks
is there any other skinned layout for the buttons. this one seems very hectic
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it works, please thest the DB2 Browser (its a new database i got with 45000+ codes, had not the time to correctly sort and implement it yet).
Not at the moment, tell me what you like as layout and try to implement it?
What you can do at the moment is to place a widget on your homescreen for most-used functions, and soon there will be possibilty to create custom layouts (again, was already in an earlier beta version)

antifish said:
If it works, please thest the DB2 Browser (its a new database i got with 45000+ codes, had not the time to correctly sort and implement it yet).
Not at the moment, tell me what you like as layout and try to implement it?
What you can do at the moment is to place a widget on your homescreen for most-used functions, and soon there will be possibilty to create custom layouts (again, was already in an earlier beta version)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What i had in mind was a simple remote control skin with most used buttons over it. the rest of the buttons like the numbers, other minimal used functions, etc to be placed in a drawer or pull-down menu.
Anyways, i shall try the new database and get back.
How (or is there one) do i use the TV B-Gone code? can this block all IR frequencies?

francisdsa said:
What i had in mind was a simple remote control skin with most used buttons over it. the rest of the buttons like the numbers, other minimal used functions, etc to be placed in a drawer or pull-down menu.
Anyways, i shall try the new database and get back.
How (or is there one) do i use the TV B-Gone code? can this block all IR frequencies?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will be able to define your layout with only your used buttons in a next version, event the buttons will be very simple (you can arrange, resize, add, delete default android buttons and assing a code).
Maybe i find a good "default" remote layout which i could use, with power, ch+/- etc, just the basic functions.
Yeah you can use the "All-off" function in the navigation menue, it will send all know power keys (the ones other users uploaded, not yet the ones form the new DB)

antifish said:
You will be able to define your layout with only your used buttons in a next version, event the buttons will be very simple (you can arrange, resize, add, delete default android buttons and assing a code).
Maybe i find a good "default" remote layout which i could use, with power, ch+/- etc, just the basic functions.
Yeah you can use the "All-off" function in the navigation menue, it will send all know power keys (the ones other users uploaded, not yet the ones form the new DB)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks dude
Maybe this common remote (jpg image) will help you make a simple useful skin
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OR

Got some confirmations that it works on the S4 and the Galaxy Tab 8.0.
Please check the OT for a download link and use the Thread in the HTC ONE forum for bugs / etc.

LeapFrog Epic development thread (ROMs, recovery, etc.)

The first custom ROM for the Epic is now live! See this thread for details.
So a friend of mine got his hands on one of these, and since he asked me about flashing Gapps into the device, I was wondering if any one of you guys have been doing something just as "epic" for this children's tablet. And yes, I started this thread as a sort-of sequel/follow-up to the VTech Innotab Max thread I posted a year ago.
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TECH SPECS:
Display: 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with TN LCD display
Resolution: 1024x600
Operating System: Based on Android 4.4 (modified, of course)
Processor: Quad-core, 1.3 GHz (reported by CPU-Z as MediaTek MT8127)
Memory: 1GB RAM
Storage: 16GB; 9GB available for /sdcard partition
Micro SD Card Slot: Yes, expandable up to 32GB
Camera - Rear: 2MP
Camera - Front: 2MP
Audio: 3.5mm stereo jack with microphone
Wireless: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.0
Battery Type: Rechargeable lithium-ion
Battery Life: 6+ hours; results will vary based on usage and settings
Port: Micro USB
Sensor(s): Accelerometer
Much to my disappointment, LeapFrog didn't equip the tablet with a GPS module, and despite the potential privacy issues that may arise with including one, it could be legitimately used for certain applications like tracking the device or your son or daughter in case he/she gets lost. The usual backdoor leading to Developer Options is also disabled for some reason, though it can still be accessed through third-party utilities such as this. And maybe it's just my modded Epic, but beaming stuff from another device to an Epic using ShareIT appears to suffer from connection issues, i.e. the device is detected but the sender is unable to connect to it; a workaround for this would be sending a file or two from the Epic and then having the sender do the same from his/her device.
APKs from outside sources can be installed either through ADB or by downloading it on your device and installing as usual, not to mention that there's a semi-hidden feature (tucked away under the Parental Controls panel) that allows for the Amazon AppStore to be loaded. As for rooting, Kingoroot should do the trick from what I've read here, but you can manually install SuperSU on it if you prefer the more established root access app. ADB-wise, the latest debug and fastboot binaries should work on the device from what I can attest.
Oh, and here's a link to the Antutu test results:
http://our.antutu.net/api/?action=v5&act=benchmark&id=54239552
CPU-Z report:
Kernel sources:
Code:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/vo6u4s6b3shjrhb/epic.iso?dl=0
https://github.com/huckleberrypie/android_kernel_quanta_narnia
Mad props to RAMChYLD for volunteering to have the sources mailed to him, as I'm reluctant to have them mail the goods to me no thanks to the rather abysmal postal service here in my place.
Pre-rooted ROM dump courtesy of @epic__fail; This can only be flashed with an unlocked bootloader.
Code:
http://www.needrom.com/download/leapfrog-epic-v1-stock-rom/
Note that while the unsigned ROMs cannot be flashed directly using SP Flash Tool, you can get around this by using the hidden Write Memory option. A quick guide on how to do that can be found on page 12.
Signed ROM dumps. Can be flashed directly using SP Flash Tool v5.1744. Make sure to perform a full backup of the tablet before flashing!
Code:
Epic Academy Edition:
v1.1.95: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=6006931924117902657
v1.8.160: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=6006931924117908682
v1.8.804: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=4349826312261819358
LeapPad Academy:
v1.1.171: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=4349826312261738402
P.S.: If you're getting a signature error upon flashing, try unticking SEC_RO and then try again.
Official flashable ZIP files:
Code:
Regular:
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/KOT49H.user.1.0.124.20150709.140831-to-KOT49H.user.1.5.45.20160310.231145.zip
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/KOT49H.user.1.1.146.20150825.120621-to-KOT49H.user.1.5.45.20160310.231145.zip
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/KOT49H.user.1.2.90.20150924.150837-to-KOT49H.user.1.5.45.20160310.231145.zip
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/KOT49H.user.1.3.27.20151026.144847-to-KOT49H.user.1.5.45.20160310.231145.zip
Academy Edition:
Latest Version: "KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555"
KOT49H.user.1.1.52.20170522.123745
URL: http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/v2/KOT49H.user.1.1.52.20170522.123745_to_KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555.zip
Patch notes: This is an incremental update from KOT49H.user.1.1.52.20170522.123745 to KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555
KOT49H.user.1.1.62.20170627.010228
URL: http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/v2/KOT49H.user.1.1.62.20170627.010228_to_KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555.zip
Patch notes: This is an incremental update from KOT49H.user.1.1.62.20170627.010228 to KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555
KOT49H.user.1.1.64.20170704.010259
URL: http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/v2/KOT49H.user.1.1.64.20170704.010259_to_KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555.zip
Patch notes: This is an incremental update from KOT49H.user.1.1.64.20170704.010259 to KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555
KOT49H.user.1.1.66.20170712.151925
URL: http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/v2/KOT49H.user.1.1.66.20170712.151925_to_KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555.zip
Patch notes: This is an incremental update from KOT49H.user.1.1.66.20170712.151925 to KOT49H.user.1.1.95.20171215.140555
JSON files for the updater:
Regular:
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/NarniaSystemUpdateVersions1.json
Academy:
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/NarniaSystemUpdateVersions_epic2.json
LeapPad Academy:
http://lfcdownload.leapfrog.com/epic/en/NarniaSystemUpdateVersions_epic3.json
The above ZIPs are incremental patches used to update an existing system to a newer build; I couldn't seem to dig up a full system image, let alone a scatter file, for a bricked or bootlooping Epic to be restored back to factory condition though, but still I'm keeping this as a reference in case any one of you guys is interested in downloading them manually. Apparently "KOT49H.user.1.1.99.20150807.173011" is unique to demo units, hence why there weren't any updates available for my device when I ran the OTA utility.
Demo-to-retail conversion tutorial
A tutorial on how to convert a store demo unit into a fully-functional Epic can be found here:
https://huckleberrypie57.blogspot.com/2018/12/and-i-came-in-for-another-leapfrog-epic.html
Custom ROMs
Unofficial LineageOS 14.1 by mac2612, blakegriplingph and kai2000: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/rom-lineageos-14-1-leapfrog-epic-t4161311

The modifications to the way locale is set means that Bluetooth HID like keyboards can pair but cannot work since it cannot be set to be used for input (the options to change or add keyboard layouts is disabled in the Android settings screen and instead is selected from LeapFrog's own screen which divides the world into 7 regions- US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and Other. When you pick Other it forces the UK keyboard and locale on you, which is ridiculous since some countries uses varying combinations of either (for example, Philippines uses US English 100%, while Malaysia uses UK English but US Keyboard). However bluetooth does work with A2DP devices.
Yeah, the CPU-Z and AnTuTu benchmark are my doing. I am the friend Blake mentioned. I should add that the device ran the Project Anarchy demo in AnTuTu somewhat well, averaging at 15fps.
MTK's spec sheet mentions that the SoC also has GPS and FM Radio, but I suspect that both are disconnected on the device since Android doesn't detect them.
The option to enable installation of packages from untrusted sources is still in the android security screen in settings tho, and you will be instructed to turn it on as part of the steps to install the Amazon AppStore.

I actually emailed LeapFrog as to whether they can release a tarball to the MTK kernel sources they used, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed but since they had a history of doing so in compliance with the GPL (c.f. the links to Didj/Leapster sources on eLinux provided by none other than LF themselves), I have high hopes for custom ROM development or at least some mods for the device.

Well, my only problem with the device is that the input method and locale selection is locked down and selected by the "Device Locale" screen, instead of allowing the much more granular selection allowed from the Android settings screen itself. I have determined that the same lockdown prevents bluetooth keyboards from pairing properly with the device. Also, several apps defaulted to downloading videos from UK servers instead (ie BabyFirst TV, Fisher-Price Puppy Player and Little People Player) and thus have what I perceive as "wrong voices".

I'm still waiting for LeapFrog's reply concerning the kernel sources, and if all goes well we'll be golden.

Good luck.

Well, drat. Leapfrog's asking me for a mailing address so they can send me the source CDs. Problem is I am wary of the postal servce here at my place, so is there anyone who's willing to get the sources?

So I bought one of these leap pad epics. Got it at toys r us. It was a return so open box. They gave it to me for $70 (they retail for $169.99+tax) because the last person who owned it left their passcode on it. I can't figure out how to get it off. Any ideas??

Hang in there. I've contacted Leapfrog via Facebook and am awaiting a reply.

RAMChYLD said:
Hang in there. I've contacted Leapfrog via Facebook and am awaiting a reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wouldn't doing the standard factory reset procedure be enough for that (as with those who ended up flinging way too many patterns on their device), or is there anything special that's needed to be done?

Okay, got a reply. Go into the parent screen to bring up the pin entry, then enter 4 1 9. Now, when your cursor is in the last textbox, hit the backspace and enter 2 7. Apparently this is a hidden backdoor that Leapfrog puts into the system for cases like these (ie improper returns).
I've tested it, entering 4 1 2 7 upfront doesn't work. It has to be 4 1 9 <backspace> 2 7.
As for doing a factory reset, well, It's a catch 22 situation- to get into the settings screen, you need to enter the password first - they actually modified the settings app. If you don't have the password, well, you're SOL unless you call Leapfrog support, who will probably give you this code anyway. If the ADB interface is up, you could probably do it from there, but I'm not sure if it is.

Hmm, now I'm wondering if there's someone who's up to doing an SP Flash Tool dump of the device.

Good news: RAMChYLD just got his hands on the source tarball, and as such he gave me a link to the ISO containing the kernel sources, ripped off the disc LeapFrog mailed to him recently:
Said link to the sources can be found on the first post, in case you guys are interested.

Actually, Blake did the bulk of the work, talking to Leapfrog and arranging the CD to be sent to me. But yeah.

RAMChYLD said:
Actually, Blake did the bulk of the work, talking to Leapfrog and arranging the CD to be sent to me. But yeah.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, pretty much. Though to tell you one thing, I was a bit worried that the sources either wouldn't arrive in time or not at all.

RAMChYLD said:
As for doing a factory reset, well, It's a catch 22 situation- to get into the settings screen, you need to enter the password first - they actually modified the settings app. If you don't have the password, well, you're SOL unless you call Leapfrog support, who will probably give you this code anyway. If the ADB interface is up, you could probably do it from there, but I'm not sure if it is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can factory reset by holding down Power + Volume Up at boot.

Is any one of you guys here interested?

I will be. I'll be buying my son one this weekend.

alienundies said:
I will be. I'll be buying my son one this weekend.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you could provide an SP Flash Tool dump of the stock ROM it'll be golden., along with a TWRP/Clockwork recovery image. I really wish that I could get my hands on one, but the local Toys R Us here sells it for like twice the price even though it's just some glorified MediaTek device made with children in mind.

XbooX08 said:
You can factory reset by holding down Power + Volume Up at boot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does that work? They even went as far as to disable the ability to screenshot with power + volume down until I installed an app to re-enable it.
blakegriplingph said:
If you could provide an SP Flash Tool dump of the stock ROM it'll be golden., along with a TWRP/Clockwork recovery image. I really wish that I could get my hands on one, but the local Toys R Us here sells it for like twice the price even though it's just some glorified MediaTek device made with children in mind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1. The Asian importers for the device are charging way more for it over here than the device sell for in the US. It's going for an insane RM1000 at Toys R Us and Hamleys here. Which imo is ridiculous given that there are vendors selling (malware-laden) Chinese tablets for less than a fifth of that.

Testing GadgetBridge with ZeTime support

Code:
[SIZE="3"]*** Disclaimer
This is an unoffical build of Gadgetbridge and is for the advanced user.
I am not responsible for anything bad, which could happen to your smartphone or smartwatch.
[COLOR="red"]Do not mirror my builds![/COLOR] Please post a link to this thread instead.[/SIZE]
Introduction
Gadgetbridge is an Android (4.4+) application which will allow you to use your Pebble, Mi Band, Amazfit Bit and HPlus device (and more) without the vendor's closed source application and without the need to create an account and transmit any of your data to the vendor's servers. (from https://gadgetbridge.org/)
Here I will present you the Gadgetbridge app with additional support for the MyKronoz ZeTime.
The purpose of the thread is to reach some testers, further improve the support for that smartwatch and find people interested in developing or enhance the user experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Image
Find here an image to show you that it works:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Features
This things should work with your ZeTime:
synchronize the time
fetch activity data: steps, sleep, heart rate and store them in a database
refresh weather data
get notifications: calls, sms, messenger, mails
control music playback from the watch
set user info (height, weight, age, gender)
set daily targets/goals (steps, calories, distanc, active time)
setup watch for either wrist
set display on duration
set alarms
do not disturb settings
set the signal types
set inactivity alert
automatic hear rate measuring and setting heart rate limits
set activity tracking, date and time format, ...
mail notifications seem broken in firmware 1.7 build 41
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Installation instructions
install Gadgetbridge
close and terminate the offical app
open Gadgetbridge and search for the watch
press connect
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Changelog
28.09.2018: Add a whole lot more configuration options like signal type, do not disturb, alarm, ... see github commits.
12.09.2018: Icons added, set daily target (goals) and user info on the watch, select on which wrist you wear the watch, set display on duration (max. 18h). Add checkbox to preserve or delete activity data from the watch.
18.07.2018: Rework and improve some functions, fix time stamps for the activity data, fix weather icons for firmware 1.7 build 41.
06.07.2018: Inital alpha release with some basic function support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downloads
Alpha4 test version - 0.29.1 - 28.09.2018
download here
Alpha3 test version - 0.29.1 - 12.09.2018
download here
Alpha2 test version - 0.28.0 - 18.07.2018
download here
Alpha test version - 0.27.0 - 06.07.2018
download here
Gadgetbridge has merged the inital support, so you can also use the offical version found on f-droid or at their repo.
Sources
Gadgetbridge
ZeTime Support
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FAQ
Q: Is all data fetch from the watch and stored on my phone?
A: Yes, as far as I know all data gets save to the database. But the data is not delete from the watch so you can sync this data with the offical app too. The database can also be export, see the Gadgetbridge wiki.
Q: Can I configure my watch from within Gadgetbridge, say to wear it on the other hand?
A: At the moment configuration or calibration of the watch is not supported, but in future update this may come.
Q: I found something weird, what should I do now?
A: Please get us a log to show what is the problem, see the Gadgetbridge wiki for help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks To/Credits
Code:
[SIZE="3"]Andreas Shimokawa, Carsten Pfeiffer, Daniele Gobbetti - the core team of Gadgetbridge
all contributors to Gadgetbridge
Sauce Maison - for open the [URL="https://github.com/Freeyourgadget/Gadgetbridge/issues/1099"]"ZeTime support request"[/URL] and providing his protocol findings[/SIZE]
XDA:DevDB Information
GadgetBridge with ZeTime Support, App for the Smart Watches
Contributors
lightwars
Source Code: https://github.com/Lightwars/Gadgetbridge-1
Version Information
Status: Alpha
Created 2018-07-06
Last Updated 2018-09-29

Time out screen
Plse consider changing display always on on the watch for watchfaces despite the decrease of batterylife,when you make configuration of the watch possible.
Thnx.

Oh this is what I've been hoping for! I'll be testing this out. My Zetime just sits in the drawer now anyway, so nothing to lose. It's a great looking watch, but with very minimal hardware and very poor MyKronoz App support. Any way you guys can rig the vibration to multiples or patterns?
---------- Post added at 09:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:18 AM ----------
The fact you support music apps and not just streaming only is amazing! I can finally use Neutron Player or Pulsar+ on my Note 8! Thank you!

So what's the verdict? How is it working?

Gadgetbridge has merged the ZeTime support. The newest version 0.28.0 will work from now on.
Updated the OP with a new version.

Very good work.
Is there a plan to continue working on this?
I also have a Zetime and would like to help where I can.

myxor said:
Very good work.
Is there a plan to continue working on this?
I also have a Zetime and would like to help where I can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
Do what whatever you can. It is opensource.

johnraynor said:
Plse consider changing display always on on the watch for watchfaces despite the decrease of batterylife,when you make configuration of the watch possible.
Thnx.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The maximal screen timeout value is 18 hours. I've had a short test and waited more than 5 minutes, to proof that it exceeds the maximal value settable via the official app.
I will let the user set a screen timeout in seconds to his/her likings in gadgetbridge.
Sadly the firmware of the watch starts dimming the screen only when half of the set time is up.

well done. will test ASAP. do you think its possible to rewrite the source of the watch firmware to add other widgets?
i decompiled the source of the zeTime app some month ago, but i was not able to find which files where transfered to the watch when a firmware update is available.
do you think it is possible to decompile the firmware and make changes there?

BPM said:
well done. will test ASAP. do you think its possible to rewrite the source of the watch firmware to add other widgets?
i decompiled the source of the zeTime app some month ago, but i was not able to find which files where transfered to the watch when a firmware update is available.
do you think it is possible to decompile the firmware and make changes there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will not found it in the app itself, the firmware is loaded from a server. If you wish to have a look, here is a link with some firmware versions I collected: https://drive.google.com/drive/mobile/folders/1L5-We9f1NqJVsOqJPDC06v9bucprxj7h?usp=sharing
The most up to date firmware files are missing... Maybe I will soon download the newest ones and add them. In a Zip-file you find different firmware files. The picture bin files have something to do with fonts, Smileys, background and so on. Then there is the firmware of the main processor. Firmware for the sensors and firmware for the bluethooth chip. It may vary from archive to archive. This is just some guessing.
What one can do is dissamble the firmware file, but you have to know some assembler to do some modifications.
If we had the source, than it would be possible to add widgets.

new update in the download section of the OP.
a few more config options are available... please try it out.

Thanks for update, sadly the download is not working. Always getting 404 not found.

Hey !
I'm just getting back to ZeTime & Gadgetbridge and I see that you've made some really great improvements!
Do you need any help in the protocol reverse-engineering? I've seen that you've managed to figure out the parameters commands, is there anything else I can try to do?

myxor said:
Thanks for update, sadly the download is not working. Always getting 404 not found.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Re-uploaded the app, now it should work, do not know what was wrong...
smaiz said:
Hey !
I'm just getting back to ZeTime & Gadgetbridge and I see that you've made some really great improvements!
Do you need any help in the protocol reverse-engineering? I've seen that you've managed to figure out the parameters commands, is there anything else I can try to do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For sure! It is better to have another pair of eyes looking over the protocol. I have copied your work to the wiki of gadgetbridge so we can put everything together we know so far. But haven't got time to update, what I have coded.
Testing new functions if you like.

Used the first rollout of Gadgetbridge that was compatible with Zetime. Very impressed back then. However, last I checked since wearing it a while ago, the bluetooth was always disconnecting/reconnecting couple times an hour. Extremely annoyed at the constant disconnected notifications. Both are sync/bluetooth problems with Gadgetbridge and the official MyKronoz app. And - Yes - my phone and watch are right next to each other or in the same room and I've already tried unpairing/resetting/rebooting/uninstalling all apps and reinstalling.
Anyone else have this problem and/or solutions? If it's the bluetooth chip or other hardware then I may just have to move on to a Galaxy Watch (might do anyway, but I never like to bin perfectly good looking but faulty devices).

scarshi said:
However, last I checked since wearing it a while ago, the bluetooth was always disconnecting/reconnecting couple times an hour. Extremely annoyed at the constant disconnected notifications. Both are sync/bluetooth problems with Gadgetbridge and the official MyKronoz app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you know or check for the buggy connection? Just one app should be runnning at a time, otherwise there might be some interference...
Best to do a logcat maybe like this:
Code:
adb logcat BluetoothGatt:D *:S
to only see the discovery, connetion messages of the bluetooth stack. So you and others can see how much reconnections are taking place.
I have attached my log of about 5 1/2 hours. You see at 11:21 I was too far away from the phone to connect.
Further infos like android version, would be good. If the gadgetbridge app have some problems with the connection, then it is best to issue this at the gadgetbridge repo. If the problem is the watch, then only MyKronoz can fix their firmware...

@smaiz
I think MyKronoz did change some time back the way they send notifications to the watch. They have new header codes for email, social and maybe sms, which are divided in header and subject... or anything like that.
Maybe we should also look at that, I may also be totally wrong.
A different big thing are firmware updates and watch face uploads.

I don't really see a difference... But In the protocol description on my computer, there is 2 more bytes at the end of a notification message compared to the one on the wiki. I've noted "always '0200'", but now I find always 'ff00'. I don't really know the purpose of these bytes. Apart from that, I don't see any modification. Did you have any update ? (I'm using ZeTime Petite "A1.0(R2.4T0.3H0.5) (Build 34)", they have different version numbers for ZeTime and ZeTime Petite, maybe there is other differences...)
Also on the updates and watch faces part, I also think this is the next big thing But I think we should first work on the parameters (I don't know where you are on this, is there still a lot missing ?)

smaiz said:
I don't really see a difference... But In the protocol description on my computer, there is 2 more bytes at the end of a notification message compared to the one on the wiki. I've noted "always '0200'", but now I find always 'ff00'. I don't really know the purpose of these bytes. Apart from that, I don't see any modification. Did you have any update ?
Also on the updates and watch faces part, I also think this is the next big thing But I think we should first work on the parameters (I don't know where you are on this, is there still a lot missing ?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, thought there might be... I havn't got an update on this, because it wasn't looking at notifications at the moment. They are working and working on some parameters were my focus.
Some of them are more complicated than others...
At the moment we set alarm reminders, but a menu is missing to set different reminders, MK has 10 different ones minus the alarm. I know it works just the same as an alarm.
I know about setting the time zone, snooze time, text size, language and the metrics, which are missing in the app. I think I know how to switch the night mode background. I hope other parameters are listed in the OP.
I also want to implement a feature not available by the MyKronoz App: Someone might want to set the watch hands some minutes ahead of the time to be not too late or something like that.

Problem seems solved
lightwars said:
How do you know or check for the buggy connection? Just one app should be runnning at a time, otherwise there might be some interference...
Best to do a logcat maybe like this:
Code:
adb logcat BluetoothGatt:D *:S
to only see the discovery, connetion messages of the bluetooth stack. So you and others can see how much reconnections are taking place.
I have attached my log of about 5 1/2 hours. You see at 11:21 I was too far away from the phone to connect.
Further infos like android version, would be good. If the gadgetbridge app have some problems with the connection, then it is best to issue this at the gadgetbridge repo. If the problem is the watch, then only MyKronoz can fix their firmware...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was typing a bunch of jargon of software details on my current set-up and also that I have paired the Zetime with an old iPhone and my old Galaxy S7 Edge (currently using a Note 8) which all show the same disconnection/reconnection problems when decided to take a dive into the hardware of the watch and found something very interesting.
Immediately on removing the back plate/heartrate monitor/charger I noticed that the internal battery was installed backwards. The plastic cap that is supposed to shield the battery from the board was put on the wrong side and the metal housing of the battery was pressed to the board with nothing to shield it. As the battery connector was on the right side, I realised that whoever had had the job to put on the battery's plastic plate had put it on the reverse side. I then pulled the plastic cap off the battery and adhered it to the proper side facing towards the internal watch board. After reconnecting the battery and reconnecting the watch backplate back on I've re-paired it to the Note 8 and now ... no more random disconnections!
It's just amazing how a small oversight on assembly at the factory can cause so many problems that require such an easy solution. Its just weird that I thought to take this watch apart before getting crazy-mad-frustrated at software not working and found a solution!
Thanks for all your info mate! I appreciate you taking the time to try and help me out. Cheers!

Custom ROM & MCU Upgrade - Why?

Hi everyone, I hope this is an ok place for this post.
I am shortly getting a new Android based head unit for my car, it's a PX6 based unit though I don't know the specific details as I don't have it yet.
I'm familiar with changing ROMs like hot dinners when I used to use Android phones, but can someone explain the basics of why these custom ROMs on the forums exist?
I am currently working on a better front end for the head unit to suit the car, simply using Nova and KLWP to do what I need, but is there any benefit to having a custom ROM, will it make the interface better or anything like that?
Basically just looking to understand what they offer over what's installed as standard (assuming I create my own front end on the default software).
Same goes with the MCU upgrades, I assume they will already work well with the car in terms of integration and so on with buttons etc. What does the MCU upgrade do and why do people do it?
Hope that's not too much to ask, just looking for a simple summary
Thank

I would recommend getting the head unit and install it in your car first. See what works to your liking and what does not. Maybe you will find that it works well enough with the factory ROM and MCU that comes on it and not need any updates right away. It is not recommended to update either unless you know for sure that the update you're applying specifically fixes an issue you have with your head unit.
Quite honestly when you start updating the ROM and MCU, you run the risk of getting more problems than fixes and/or feature. Also I would suggest giving the factory ROM a chance before trying any of the custom ROMs like Hal9k and/or Malaysk.
I guess a lot of it comes to what your expectations are and how you plan to use the head unit.

jlbooth said:
I would recommend getting the head unit and install it in your car first. See what works to your liking and what does not. Maybe you will find that it works well enough with the factory ROM and MCU that comes on it and not need any updates right away. It is not recommended to update either unless you know for sure that the update you're applying specifically fixes an issue you have with your head unit.
Quite honestly when you start updating the ROM and MCU, you run the risk of getting more problems than fixes and/or feature. Also I would suggest giving the factory ROM a chance before trying any of the custom ROMs like Hal9k and/or Malaysk.
I guess a lot of it comes to what your expectations are and how you plan to use the head unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I want to know what, apart from fixing problems, do the custom ROMs offer? Is there anything extra or is it just a better more streamlined and bloat free install?
To be honest, all I want my unit to do is display a nice front end, which as I've said I will make with Nova and KLWP (I assume that will work ok on a stock ROM), and then to open the apps that I will hard code for my use in the interface, things like radio, nav, maps, Spotify etc, but most importantly I'll be using it to launch the CarPlay app (ZLINK) as that will be where I spend most time

If you plan to use ZLink most of the time, you may find that the stock ROM suits your needs. I use ZLink most of the time for wireless AA. And yes you will be able to install Nova on the head unit. I like Car Launcher Pro pretty well.
Just FYI, I've asked the forum moderator to move this thread to MTCD Head Units Q&A as the discussion has nothing to do with software development.

jlbooth said:
If you plan to use ZLink most of the time, you may find that the stock ROM suits your needs. I use ZLink most of the time for wireless AA. And yes you will be able to install Nova on the head unit. I like Car Launcher Pro pretty well.
Just FYI, I've asked the forum moderator to move this thread to MTCD Head Units Q&A as the discussion has nothing to do with software development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, it sounds like I will be ok then at least to start with.
I've read somewhere that if using third party launchers that you lose access to some native apps like radio and so on. is that true?

That is not true (at least not with my head unit - PX6 SYGAV/DASAITA unit for 2015-2017 Toyota Camry). The stock radio app shows up just like any other app in the custom launcher app drawer.
Regarding what you get with custom ROMs, you may get more frequent updates, usually rooted, and sometimes better control over when apps get closed and stuff like that.
Again I think it kind of depends on how you plan to use the head unit. Try not let "FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)" drive your decision to switch to a custom ROM. Not saying they're bad or not useful. It all depends on what the expectations are and how the head unit is going to be used.

Custom ROMS are actually Modded Roms/APKs, no one has access to the source on these typically chinese origin devices.

marchnz said:
Custom ROMS are actually Modded Roms/APKs, no one has access to the source on these typically chinese origin devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
got that, but do I need access to the source ifs just want to use it as standard with my own front end and it works ok?

@dchuraman , as an end user of stock OR custom ROM you would not need access to the source to accomplish what you want to do.
Basically the custom ROMs originate from a stock ROM in binary form and the applications contained in the ROM are customized mostly in ways that even the custom ROM developer does not need the actual source code to make changes (just one example - changing visual resources in the contained applications).
Again that sounds like something that would be way outside the scope of what you are wanting to accomplish with your head unit.

One additional thought regarding ZLink. The app will automatically launch the moment your phone connects to the head unit Bluetooth, so you might not be using the ZLink shortcut all that often. You will need the shortcut like if you leave CarPlay to adjust sound settings like equalizer, but for normal usage, you should not need the ZLink shortcut very often. Also once ZLink launches and it gets connection to your phone, it automatically brings up CarPlay without any action on your part.
ZLink will also launch if you connect a USB cable between the head unit and your phone (assuming you're not using wireless CarPlay).

I'll explain why.
MTCE/D ROMs are fairly swappable and there's not much difference in them.. that's where the Custom ROMs come in. They come with fixes for the bugs in the "official" roms, they come with root and things like Vipe4Android and/or Xposed which haven't been easy to implement on these Rockchip devices. They also extend the support for these devices. Hal9k Mod v5, you not only have Magisk installed but you can actually update it now. Before, it would result in a bootloop 99% of the time. It's a fairly "Golden Age." There is now a root method to install SU then Magisk on most Android 10 ROMs(thanks to @AlFerro) but the Hal9K Mod allows for even more customization and like I said, he tries to fix any bugs in the normal roms when he makes his mod. Malaysk is similar but I don't have as much to say since I'm not as versed in using it.
As for MCU updates, think of them similar to BIOS updates. They effect some compatibility with ROMs but mostly control the Canbus/"Stereo" part of things. MCU is what makes the Android system communicate with the "stereo" part of the system. Otherwise, it'd just be a android tablet wired into the speakers (poorly).
**Don't confuse this with needing to upgrading the MCU every update by a manufacturer. Manufacturers don't always release updates that are compatible with older units, especially in the cheaper ones. Check to see if the ROM works first on the MCU you're on, if it doesn't work then try to update the MCU

Thanks all, it sounds like I probably don't need to run a custom rom, but one question. My unit hasn't arrived yet but in screenshots I see this top navigation bar in all apps, and therefore reducing the useable screen real estate. Is there a way to get rid of that and the floating home button?
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Depending on which launcher you use, there may be an option to hide the status bar using the launcher settings.
The floating help button should have options to to tell it to not show. Otherwise you may be able to simply disable the app for the floating home button. Typically the Joying branded units have that floating home button and should have an option to disable.

dchuraman said:
Thanks all, it sounds like I probably don't need to run a custom rom, but one question. My unit hasn't arrived yet but in screenshots I see this top navigation bar in all apps, and therefore reducing the useable screen real estate. Is there a way to get rid of that and the floating home button?
View attachment 5399509
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best find out what device you own first.
Not an MTCD/E/P device, so you've posted in the wrong forum.
Android-headunits is where you will find FYT or TS10 info.

marchnz said:
Best find out what device you own first.
Not an MTCD/E/P device, so you've posted in the wrong forum.
Android-headunits is where you will find FYT or TS10 info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How can you tell it's not a MTCx device?

You can find out if the head unit is MTCD/E from the system about page. This detail is important especially if you are considering installing a custom ROM. Based on the screenshot you provided before, I would venture say that the head unit that you have ordered is not MTCD/E head unit.
Why is this important? Malaysk and Hal9k custom ROMs are for MTCD/E head units and would not be compatible with your head unit if not MTCD/E. You could brick or damage your head unit if you attempted to load up a custom ROM that is not compatible.
I am going to request the moderator move this thread to Android Head Units.

No I get that what type of unit it is is important I just want to know how that was established from the screenshot.
I thought all PX5/6 units were MTCx

Might not always be the case. Best way to find out is to post a screen shot of the system about page. Quite honestly, regardless of whether your head unit is MTCD/E or not, you created a new thread for your discussion which makes it easy for the moderator to move the whole thread if indeed it is not MTCD/E.

dchuraman said:
No I get that what type of unit it is is important I just want to know how that was established from the screenshot.
I thought all PX5/6 units were MTCx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may have been inferred a little bit (maybe by me mentioning Joying) and the fact that it was never really established whether MTCD/E in the discussion. When the discussion was started, it was indicated you had not received your head unit yet. So it would have been difficult for you to say one way or the other. I just wanted to make sure you were aware of the difference and perhaps reduce the potential of damaging your system.
As previously stated, if perhaps your system is not MTCD/E then this whole thread could easily be moved to the correct forum by the moderator.