Does removing preinstalled apps using ADB revoke SafetyNet attestation? - General Questions and Answers

Hello,
I stumbled upon a post on removing preinstalled apps using ADB (pm uninstall -u 0 com.app), and after couple hours of googling the only unanswered question I have left about this is: would doing this revoke device's SafetyNet attestation? I.e. would it break Google Pay and banking apps?
The process would involve:
Enabling USB debug
Connecting via ADB and removing a number of apps
Disabling USB debug
Rebooting the device
No root or anything.
I'm running current MiUi, if that helps.

Gendalph said:
Hello,
I stumbled upon a post on removing preinstalled apps using ADB (pm uninstall -u 0 com.app), and after couple hours of googling the only unanswered question I have left about this is: would doing this revoke device's SafetyNet attestation? I.e. would it break Google Pay and banking apps?
The process would involve:
Enabling USB debug
Connecting via ADB and removing a number of apps
Disabling USB debug
Rebooting the device
No root or anything.
I'm running current MiUi, if that helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. It should not revoke safety attestation. But if you remove all Google play apps that run in the background, you could potentially loose it because attestation releys on Google services
Further more, be weary and understand what you are doing... Removing certain apps and system files can result in a unusable device
Cheers

Nameless Foe said:
No. It should not revoke safety attestation. But if you remove all Google play apps that run in the background, you could potentially loose it because attestation releys on Google services
Further more, be weary and understand what you are doing... Removing certain apps and system files can result in a unusable device
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can remove the Play store and all other apps with a user interface but if you remove the google architecture system apps that offer NO user interface, you will not even be able to run the Attestation test anymore

Gendalph said:
Hello,
I stumbled upon a post on removing preinstalled apps using ADB (pm uninstall -u 0 com.app), and after couple hours of googling the only unanswered question I have left about this is: would doing this revoke device's SafetyNet attestation? I.e. would it break Google Pay and banking apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The code shown doesn't really uninstall an app, it simply hides it to user. Physically removing apps requires another method - and some knowledge of Linux commands
BTW: If the apps you've in mind are installed as system apps or system privileged apps, Android must be rooted to deal with them.

Nameless Foe said:
No. It should not revoke safety attestation. But if you remove all Google play apps that run in the background, you could potentially loose it because attestation relies on Google services
Further more, be weary and understand what you are doing... Removing certain apps and system files can result in a unusable device
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This answers my question, thanks!
jwoegerbauer said:
The code shown doesn't really uninstall an app, it simply hides it to user. Physically removing apps requires another method - and some knowledge of Linux commands
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I understand it prevents them from running until the next system update, and that is enough. I don't really want to deal with rooting and then getting SafetyNet attestation to pass.
Thank you for the correction though.
jwoegerbauer said:
BTW: If the apps you've in mind are installed as system apps or system privileged apps, Android must be rooted to deal with them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please elaborate? Let's take for example Chrome (com.android.chrome):
It's safe to remove, since in-app web pages are displayed either in WebView or default browser
But it's a "system" app, i.e. I can't uninstall it through Settings.
If my understanding is correct, executing pm uninstall -u 0 com.android.chrome would not remove Chrome from the device, but instead disable it, keeping the APK in ROM, so if I decide to re-enable it at any point in time, I can just install the app from the Google Play Market and it would get re-enabled and updated to latest version.
To actually remove it, I would need to root the phone, log on as root and manually remove the app.
Is this what you were trying to say?

Gendalph said:
As far as I understand it prevents them from running until the next system update, and that is enough. I don't really want to deal with rooting and then getting SafetyNet attestation to pass.
Thank you for the correction though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wrong. To prevent an app from running you've to disable it:
Code:
adb devices
adb shell "pm disable <PACKAGE_NAME>"

jwoegerbauer said:
Wrong. To prevent an app from running you've to disable it:
Code:
adb devices
adb shell "pm disable <PACKAGE_NAME>"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would using the command
adb shell "pm disable -packagename-"
Essentially be just using the disable function for pre-installed apps?

I think you since the start mean with pre-installed apps the apps that are installed either in /system or /system-priv - often called bloatware. It was the explicit will of OEM/Carrier that those apps will remain untouched by user, otherwise these apps would have been installed by them as user-apps.
As I already said you can only manage those apps if Android is rooted. But rooting Android prevents e.g. banking/payment apps to run because the SafetyNet attestion then will fail: almost all of these apps have the SafetyNet API implemented.

jwoegerbauer said:
I think you since the start mean with pre-installed apps the apps that are installed either in /system or /system-priv - often called bloatware. It was the explicit will of OEM/Carrier that those apps will remain untouched by user, otherwise these apps would have been installed by them as user-apps.
As I already said you can only manage those apps if Android is rooted. But rooting Android prevents e.g. banking/payment apps to run because the SafetyNet attestion then will fail: almost all of these apps have the SafetyNet API implemented.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The article I read claims the opposite (and comments support the claim): pm uninstall can be used to completely disable and hide these apps until factory reset or system update without rooting the device.
The article is not in English, however it lists Facebook, OneDrive, OneNote, PowerPoint, OnePlus apps, Google Play Music and a few more as apps you can "uninstall" using this method - they become inaccessible from UI (unless you factory reset or re-install them from Play Market), don't load into memory and don't do anything at all.

Gendalph said:
The article I read claims the opposite (and comments support the claim): pm uninstall can be used to completely disable and hide these apps until factory reset or system update without rooting the device.
The article is not in English, however it lists Facebook, OneDrive, OneNote, PowerPoint, OnePlus apps, Google Play Music and a few more as apps you can "uninstall" using this method - they become inaccessible from UI (unless you factory reset or re-install them from Play Market), don't load into memory and don't do anything at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
May be I'm mistaken. Resume: It's on you to do it correctly.

Related

Android System WebView, com.facebook.appmanager and com.facebook.system!

What is it? Can I disable them?
Why do you need to disable them?
gm007 said:
Why do you need to disable them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it do not function for anything, at least not consume RAM.
Not the Webview if you use GApps such as Play Store, etc, Facebook yes if unused
Disappointed in Sony for including com.facebook.appmanager and com.facebook.system as uninstallable components. My Z5 came with the Facebook app already installed (Customized DE firmware). I never even ran the app (I don't do facebook) - uninstalled it the second I spotted it but these two processes remain and can only be disabled, not uninstalled.
Feck off Facebook!
I deleted webview once on my old Z1, system became unresponsive.
Sent from my E6653 @ XDA Portal
andiling said:
Not the Webview if you use GApps such as Play Store, etc, Facebook yes if unused
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tks !!!
I keep a real clean phone. I don't use FB either and have it disabled. But I discovered this file or application and as fast as I would shut down and delete cache and data it would reload itself. This action alone made me suspicious of it and I wanted it off my phone or at the very least disabled. On another forum it was recommended to install "Package Disabler Pro" at a cost of $.99 and I tried it. In the notes and warnings you have to use this carefully least you make the phone unusable but I "disable" these two persistant "Facebook" files and they have not come back. My phone works fine too. Then I went after the damn Sprint/Samsung installed voicemail program that keeps wanting you to upgrade and then it had a persistant flag that kept coming up saying "We had forced upgrades too but this one is necessary". I said no to that too and with this program finally have turned it OFF.
Hope this helps.
Lisa
BR4DOKYBrazil said:
What is it? Can I disable them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To completely disable them ("temporary" uninstallation) use Debloater http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/debloater-remove-carrier-bloat-t2998294
or learn how to use the
Code:
pm hide
command
As suggested, i would not disable Android Webview.
Always do a BACKUP of your personal files before disabling system apps : if you are not rooted and disable the wrong package, you'll get in bootloop and will have to reset the phone.
lol answered in a resurrected old thread,
Lisa stop making jokes please XD

Introduce Brevent - Black Prevent without Root

I, the original author of Prevent Running, now introduce Brevent.
In short, Prevent without Root. You can get it from here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.piebridge.brevent or http://piebridge.me/br/, and source code: https://github.com/brevent/Brevent
There are several ways to prevent running for apps:
- Force-Stop, will set stopped state, no static broadcast, sinde Android 3.2, requires android.permission.FORCE_STOP_PACKAGES
-- can granted to privileged apps, /System/PrivApp
-- adb shell has it, Brevent can use
- App-Standby, since Android 6.0, requires android.permission.CHANGE_APP_IDLE_STATE
-- only granted to Framewok apps having the same singature with framework.apk
-- adb shell has it, Brevent can use
So as you can see, Brevent working on the adb shell, having the shell permission, and can do a lot of things.
Furthermore, Brevent use directy android hide methods, instead using dumpsys, am, cmd and so, more effective.
However, there is one restriction, as the permissions cannot be granted to apps, so Brevent requires you run the adb after every boot.
But, Brevent requires no-reboot to undate Brevent Server. And phone should be use, not for reboot.
Executing on everyreboot not good enough cos not with computer everytime. u can create something like Airfrozen. Similar function but with root
Hi, If I'm rooted, should I keep Prevent running 2.3.2 or is Brevent better?
Brevent not working
I execute the ADB command and it worked very briefly, but now it continuously says the server is not running. I try re-executing the ADB command, which says the server has started, but the app doesn't recognize it and still shows server not responding. Sometimes it will work and I'll start to mark apps to freeze, but then while doing that the "server not responding" message pops up again. Any ideas why?
Works great on Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge running Android 7.0!
*The only drawback is you have to go through ADB to enable it everytime you restart the phone.
Great app, but I have a problem. Play Store doesn't install any app, but when I restart the phone, it does. I suppose that an update of these app, it stop running a Google service.
What happened to the root version?
folusmile said:
Executing on everyreboot not good enough cos not with computer everytime. u can create something like Airfrozen. Similar function but with root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have rooted, it's possible. And Brevent now supoort root mode as experimental feature.
If you have no root, it's not possible.
And there is some way like device administrator to gain some permission.
However, there is only a device administrator. And device administrator has no the permissions to standby / force-stop other apps.
Sir_gpm said:
What happened to the root version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root version is the same with adb version, it can only avoid adb.
However, there are some issues on root version due to selinux and other issues.
For example, some rooted devices cannot dumpsys, which is required by Brevent.
If you have rooted, you can try root version.
And if it doesn't work, just create an issues on github: https://github.com/brevent/Brevent
danielcuervog said:
Great app, but I have a problem. Play Store doesn't install any app, but when I restart the phone, it does. I suppose that an update of these app, it stop running a Google service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You *may* brevent some apps shouldn't be brevented, like packageinstaller or defcontainer.
I suggest you don't brevent system / framework apps if you're unsure.
For myself, I have brevented play store, and can install apps, and the play store can get update.
BartlebytheScribe said:
I execute the ADB command and it worked very briefly, but now it continuously says the server is not running. I try re-executing the ADB command, which says the server has started, but the app doesn't recognize it and still shows server not responding. Sometimes it will work and I'll start to mark apps to freeze, but then while doing that the "server not responding" message pops up again. Any ideas why?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
please create an issue on github with logs.
petr232 said:
Hi, If I'm rooted, should I keep Prevent running 2.3.2 or is Brevent better?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can use Prevent running 2.3.2, you probaly use Android 6.0-.
If you're tired of rooted / unlock / Xposed, you can try Brevent.
If you want to standby apps, you can try Brevent.
And IMO, Brevent is more intelligent:
1. back / home / recents list, both of them works well
2. standby, Brevent works greate.
3. UI. I think Brevent is nicer.
And please note, there are more users prefer Brevent to Prevent Running.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.piebridge.brevent&hl=en: less than 50,000 in one year, and no support.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.piebridge.forcestopgb&hl=en: more than 50,000 in short months.
There is no support from me for Prevent Running.
And, I'm sorry for old Prevent Running users, I shouldn't transfer it.
liudongmiao said:
You *may* brevent some apps should be brevented, like packageinstaller or defcontainer.
I suggest you don't brevent system / framework apps if you're unsure.
For myself, I have brevented play store, and can install apps, and the play store can get update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have brevented some system useless apps, and I fixed the problem. This is a great alternative to Greenify in Non-root mode. Thanks pal!
danielcuervog said:
I have brevented some system useless apps, and I fixed the problem. This is a great alternative to Greenify in Non-root mode. Thanks pal!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just find the typo.. "should be brevented", should be "shouldn't be brevented"...
Just be careful when brevent system apps.
On my pixel, it cost more battery when brevented all system apps.
// I just to check whether it will crash when brevent all system apps.
Hi @liudongmiao, wanna ask would u include "hold home key to lock screen (support fingerprint sensor)" feature or something like that in future? Thanks.
exeon said:
Hi @liudongmiao, wanna ask would u include "hold home key to lock screen (support fingerprint sensor)" feature or something like that in future? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Brevent only do simple things, force-stop / app-standby apps, nor other things. So, hold home to lock screen is not the things that Brevent should do.
Hi, I have another problem. I updated the phone software and I can't re-activate Brevent. I have this message. I have a S7 edge with Nougat stock.
EDIT: I fixed the problem. I didn't read the new command.
danielcuervog said:
Hi, I have another problem. I updated the phone software and I can't re-activate Brevent. I have this message. I have a S7 edge with Nougat stock.
EDIT: I fixed the problem. I didn't read the new command.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Previous command use /sdcard, in aosp, apps should have write permissions.
However, in some rom, Brevent has no permissions.
So I switch to "/data/data", and it's shorter.
Another question, Is possible contribuite to translate your app? I would like translate to spanish (if available)
i was under the impression it's generally not recommended to force quit apps and let Android handle them? i understand some apps misbehave, but over time would force quitting be bad?

How To Guide [ADB DEBLOAT] [OOS 12, 11 & Custom ROMs] [2022.10.06 - v2.2] Extreme debloat your OnePlus 9

EXTREME DEBLOAT
Code:
I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead SD cards,
thermonuclear war, asphyxiation due to lack of Oxygen,
ColorOS and OxygenOS migration,
existential crisis,
or you getting fired because the alarm app failed.
YOU are choosing to make these modifications, and if
you point the finger at me for messing up your device, I will laugh at you.
Hi!
First of all, this debloat.txt is heavily based on the work of SirTAVARES, but since his thread is no longer available i thought i might improve it and share.
This debloat file will wipe out almost everything from your phone. I use this debloat for daily usage and i don't see any problems.
Android 11
Support for Android 11 is discontinued.​Get the v1.4 list here for Android 11 if the attachment below does not work.​
v1.4 - Tested with rooted OnePlus 9 running OxygenOS 11.2.9.9 LE25BA, Paranoid Android Ruby Alpha 2 and crDroid 20210716 build.
​Known issues:
- If you have a WiFi network saved, using this debloat will make your phone forget the network.
Fix: If you connect to the network after using these, it won't forget it again.
- Phone lags for 10 seconds and a message with "Settings isn't responding" shows up whenever you open/go back to Bluetooth & Device Connection setting. However if you tap on "Wait" it'll go away, the setting will open and no problem. AFAIK it does not affect the actual functionalities of the settings.
*Changelog*
v1.0 - Release
v1.1 - Added oemtcma, Factory Mode, and Factory Mode Specialtest to the list.
v1.2 - [Comptible with up to OOS 11.2.7.7] Added Cloud Services, Charging Pilar, OnePlus Roaming, Membership, Secure Payment (experimental), Work-Life Balance to the list.
v1.21 - [Comptible with Paranoid Android Ruby Alpha 1] Added Abstruct from Paranoid Android.
v1.3 - [Comptible with Paranoid Android Ruby Alpha 2] Added Paranoid FaceSense to the list (experimental)
v1.4 - [Comptible with latest crDroid & OOS up to 11.2.9.9] Added LogCat, Jelly, Calendar, AudioFX, crDroid Music, Updater, Omni stuff, and some other apps to the list.
[DISCONTINUED]
Android 12​​v2.1 - Tested with rooted OnePlus 9 running OxygenOS 12.C60, LineageOS 19.1 (2022.06.12 build), and AOSPA Sapphire Beta (2022.06.11 build), and Pixel Extended 5.0 (2022.10.04 build)​​Get the list here if the attachment below does not work.​
Yes, it's extreme. I use this for my liking, check the list before uninstalling!
Use at your own risk!
Features:
- Over 100 apps removed. Contains debloat for Google, OnePlus, and other apps
- Experimental Debloat:
GPS & Location
Always-on Display
- Almost everything can be downloaded from the Play Store if you accidentally removed something you didn't want to
(I recommend using the latest platform-tools for ADB)
Usage:
- Turn on USB Debugging
- In cmd type adb devices, and allow adb authorization on device
- Type adb shell
- (Optional) Type su
- Copy & paste the lines starting with "pm uninstall" to the cmd and press Enter. (You can select all or one-by-one too)
- Reboot & Enjoy
For reinstalling accidentally removed apps, try using
adb shell cmd package install-existing <package_name>
To do list:
Find other apps to remove
Known issues:
- Same as Android 11, see above
*Changelog*
v2.0 - Update to Android / OOS 12
v2.1 - [Comptible with latest LineageOS, AOSPA & OOS up to 12.C60] Added apps for OOS, LOS and AOSPA debloat.
v2.11 - Removed DocumentsUI from the list. (Some app depends on it)
v2.2 - [Comptible with Pixel Extended Android 13] Added Security stuff from Google to the list (i find it annoying). Removed Styles & wallpaper as some ROM customization depends on it.
*This could work with other devices with OOS / PA / crDroid running. Try and let me know*
First bit of development for our beloved op9. Fantastic
why llist all those app in your other stuff section? samsung, omnirom, mii, and various other OEM apps not on any OP phone. did you forget to clean up from a list? that paired with using pm uninstall instead of disable doesn't scream "run my script with confidence"
you say "Almost everything can be downloaded from the Play Store " but , not only is thats not true. many are OEM, you extreme debloating almost everything google but keep play store and services?, GPS, AR core,, location services and even webviewer. uninstalling the webviewer will break a a few settings that rely on it, as well as any application that decides to call on it for web content. webviewer is something that should be replaced, not removed.
just root and use magisk moduals made just for desires like that. google replicates uninstalled apps to the secondary slot for reboots in A11, thats why terminal de-bloater tricks it by removing the program but keeping files in the place google checks before deciding to repair itself.
PS check out ADB AppControl with built in de bloating. even offers to backup the programs for you prior (not the data, just apk but its better than nothing)
lastly, i tried to address your flair usage of how-to guide and authoritive writing but re-reading what i said just made me sound like a jerk. i just see someone googling this in the future and getting screwed, by them. Dont be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure about something and workshop initial builds with other members before throwing it out there as a guide.
applyscience said:
why llist all those app in your other stuff section? samsung, omnirom, mii, and various other OEM apps not on any OP phone. did you forget to clean up from a list? that paired with using pm uninstall instead of disable doesn't scream "run my script with confidence"
you say "Almost everything can be downloaded from the Play Store " but , not only is thats not true. many are OEM, you extreme debloating almost everything google but keep play store and services?, GPS, AR core,, location services and even webviewer. uninstalling the webviewer will break a a few settings that rely on it, as well as any application that decides to call on it for web content. webviewer is something that should be replaced, not removed.
just root and use magisk moduals made just for desires like that. google replicates uninstalled apps to the secondary slot for reboots in A11, thats why terminal de-bloater tricks it by removing the program but keeping files in the place google checks before deciding to repair itself.
PS check out ADB AppControl with built in de bloating. even offers to backup the programs for you prior (not the data, just apk but its better than nothing)
lastly, i tried to address your flair usage of how-to guide and authoritive writing but re-reading what i said just made me sound like a jerk. i just see someone googling this in the future and getting screwed, by them. Dont be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure about something and workshop initial builds with other members before throwing it out there as a guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. You don't need to use it, all i can say is that because it works for me, i thought i'd share it.
2. "Almost" means most of them, of course there are some that cannot be downloaded.
3. I clearly state in the file that removing stuff can be risky, i didn't say that it can be used with confidence
Mh, always, when I use it, the abdroid calendar storage is no longer available...any ideas? And my calendar app stopps working...
AxelM said:
Mh, always, when I use it, the abdroid calendar storage is no longer available...any ideas? And my calendar app stopps working...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone works normally without it, and because i don't use it this list will remove those apps.
You can try using adb shell cmd package install-existing <package_name> to reinstall them.
AxelM said:
Mh, always, when I use it, the abdroid calendar storage is no longer available...any ideas? And my calendar app stopps working...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this is the situation i was trying to show concern about arising. part of me sympathizes with users who just want better performance and what not and I still do feel OP should have worded this less vague and authoritative because I feel most replies will be from users who assume this is a fleshed out guide and not something slapped together hastily and contains some mis-truths, applicable situations and errors.
That all being said, OP did title it extreme debloat, which is a pretty clear and easy to comprehend so anyone just running this without a considerable understanding of what it does or how it does it is just shooting themselves on the foot.
Don't run extreme de-bloats blindly and don't assume what one user is fine with removing is what you'll be ok with. Also, dont run pm uninstall on anything unless you are 100% sure you know exactly what it is, you will never need it again and if so, know how to install it again. pm disable exists for a reason and more should be aware of it.
If you find yourself habitually dealing with situaitons of something you need or not working, you should probably reinstall the OS. this is a extreme debloat and removes many things that arent easy to just reinstall on their own. (cant state this enough, OP did title it extreme debloat)
If people still want to run this and arent 100% sure they want to commit to the same level of debloat as OP, do yourselves a favor and copy the commands into a word processor and find and replace pm uninstall with pm disable-user --user 0.
OP says "
For reinstall accidentally removed apps, use
adb shell cmd package install-existing <package_name>"
but did you make a copy of the apk before running the script? do you know where its located to point the command to? many of the apks this removes arent even accessible without root folder access. some also cant just be downloaded so if you need something back, you will more than likely be reinstalling the OS.
OP, unless you enjoy replying to people asking how to get "X" back or wondering why "Y" is gone, maybe re-word some things and clarify some of the comments you made. Im not out here trying to belittle you or make you feel any type of way. i guarantee theres millions of things you know and do better than i and thats amazing, thats what makes people coming together and working on outcomes so awesome. or if you are someone who sees anyone offering suggestions/corrections as a personal attack and just want to run a thread with you constantly on the defensive, thats fine too. I really am just trying to prevent people breaking their phones (regaurdless if they deserve it or not becuse, in the end, its titled extreme debloat, come on people lol)
@applyscience: I totally understand your concerns. I checked all the names of the the unistalled files beforehand, but misinterpreted this one. It costs me some time, but fortunatly I work with titanium and so I was able within 3h to get everything to normal.
@_MartyMan_ : I just change the code to my goals and now everything works fine.
Did you know the code, where the files are just frozen, because than you can try it out first and than delete them...
just use
[TOOL] ADB AppControl 1.8.0 🚀 Ultimate App Manager & Debloat Tool + Tweaks
ADB AppControl 🚀 Root is not required. Works with any Android device. Can do almost everything you dreamed about with applications. ADB AppControl - the desktop program, that will allow you to easily manage applications on your android device...
forum.xda-developers.com
Thanks for the list, OP. Always nice to have a breakdown of the debloat apps.
Just as a suggestion to those who do not want to uninstall and feel more comfortable just disabling the apps, you can replace the first part of the commands in the ADB script from:
Code:
pm uninstall --user 0
to:
Code:
pm disable-user
Doing this will also save the state of the app even after doing an OS update.
@_MartyMan
THANK YOU for this guide. I'm rocking the OP 9 5g Pro. My first Oneplus device I decided upon because Facebook does NOT ship with it. And the camera.
As a root enthusiast (Privacy concerns), removing the absolute trash apps embedded in carrier-sponsored Android in the U.S. MUST be done before my device gets it's data turned on.
And your delightful list (All Uninstall) is just what I needed. None of the apps I deleted are ever going to be needed in my life.
Slightly more privacy, and my battery idled on 100% for 5 hours.
I'm off to F-Droid for my usual lineup.
Thank You Again!!!
Updated for OOS 12
Does this actually remove the package/application from the phone, i.e. I get the storage space back that the app was taking up? Or does it only disable the app from 'user 0' and the storage space is unnaffected? I want to permanently remove some packages and so far everything I have seen regarding ADB is that it doesnt remove the pacakge/app, it merely disables it from the primary user.
I am considering rooting and using TWRP or Magisk to permanently remove the packages, but if ADB actually removes them, and I get my storage space back, then I will stick to ADB.
Also, why not remove com.oneplus.brickmode? Its OnePlus's Zen Mode as far as I can tell and is completely worthless. If I am wrong please correct me so I can re-enable this package.
RonnieDoitch said:
Does this actually remove the package/application from the phone, i.e. I get the storage space back that the app was taking up? Or does it only disable the app from 'user 0' and the storage space is unnaffected? I want to permanently remove some packages and so far everything I have seen regarding ADB is that it doesnt remove the pacakge/app, it merely disables it from the primary user.
I am considering rooting and using TWRP or Magisk to permanently remove the packages, but if ADB actually removes them, and I get my storage space back, then I will stick to ADB.
Also, why not remove com.oneplus.brickmode? Its OnePlus's Zen Mode as far as I can tell and is completely worthless. If I am wrong please correct me so I can re-enable this package.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm unsure. Your correct looked it up it's Zen mode your probably fine. I uninstalled Zen mode through titanium it shows this now.
RonnieDoitch said:
Does this actually remove the package/application from the phone, i.e. I get the storage space back that the app was taking up? Or does it only disable the app from 'user 0' and the storage space is unnaffected? I want to permanently remove some packages and so far everything I have seen regarding ADB is that it doesnt remove the pacakge/app, it merely disables it from the primary user.
I am considering rooting and using TWRP or Magisk to permanently remove the packages, but if ADB actually removes them, and I get my storage space back, then I will stick to ADB.
Also, why not remove com.oneplus.brickmode? Its OnePlus's Zen Mode as far as I can tell and is completely worthless. If I am wrong please correct me so I can re-enable this package.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's still there, it's only removed for the current user. All i know is that is does not show up in Greenify so i think it's not running in the background.
What would be the command to delete red cable pro?
Updated with new apps for OOS, AOSP, and LOS. Enjoy
Can this be used for Oos 12 c62?
paz999 said:
Can this be used for Oos 12 c62?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very likely - not tested though. Not much changed since C60

Question Remove Blotware

How can I get rid of the preinstalled apps I do not want (Like Facebook)
Thank you ....Tom
Simply rooting your device would do. Then there are enough programs to assist
odatkid said:
How can I get rid of the preinstalled apps I do not want (Like Facebook)
Thank you ....Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Setup adb
2. Insert "adb devices" to verify that the device is connected properly.
2. Uninstall app using this list ( You can copy-paste these commands and run in command prompt individually. ): https://raw.githubusercontent.com/khlam/debloat-samsung-android/master/commands.txt
Overall guide is here : https://www.naldotech.com/remove-bloatware-samsung-galaxy-a32-5g/
I have rooted phone for multiple reasons, one is to be able to uninstall bloatware.
Experimenting little bit with some apps claiming they are able to uninstall bloatware (Titanium, well... surprised badly, while so many good references I heard, Magisk module debloat, Root uninstaller).... but to be honest, I have no clue which apps/modules I can uninstall without consequences, there are so many of them.
Sure, I uninstall those, I know and wish to uninstall - FB, Instagram, Carrier apps and then what?
My intention was to disable whole Knox and ..... well am not sure, its good approach just select to uninstall those item having knox in name.
Any tips or whats yours typical choose to uninstall?
wizzROM Creator a12
wizzROM a12 Creator for Samsung a125 Turn any stock or custom OneUI into a QwizzROM or RwizzROM Also see the Magisk module in post#2 OneUI 2.0 will become QwizzROM OneUI 3.1 will become RwizzROM Debloated ROM with Extras Extras: Battery...
forum.xda-developers.com
If you want to keep it stock and debloat it the easiest way is to use a Package Disabler.
You can enabled/disabled real time. Useful for troubleshooting. Uses little resources and battery. After activating it you can firewall block if desired ie with Karma Firewall for example.
blackhawk said:
If you want to keep it stock and debloat it the easiest way is to use a Package Disabler.
You can enabled/disabled real time. Useful for troubleshooting. Uses little resources and battery. After activating it you can firewall block if desired ie with Karma Firewall for example.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice
blackhawk said:
If you want to keep it stock and debloat it the easiest way is to use a Package Disabler.
You can enabled/disabled real time. Useful for troubleshooting. Uses little resources and battery. After activating it you can firewall block if desired ie with Karma Firewall for example.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So that method requires the user to have some knowledge of which apps can be safely deleted.
My method allows them to debloat without that worry
physwizz said:
So that method requires the user to have some knowledge of which apps can be safely deleted.
My method allows them to debloat without that worry
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never boot looped any phones using this kind of app in 6 years. Some apps like One UI Home or Galaxy Graphics Driver shouldn't be disabled.
Other times apps you normally wouldn't disable you want to because it's using excessive battery or misbehaving like Playstore or Google backup Transport.
blackhawk said:
I've never boot looped any phones using this kind of app in 6 years. Some apps like One UI Home or Galaxy Graphics Driver shouldn't be disabled.
Other times apps you normally wouldn't disable you want to because it's using excessive battery or misbehaving like Playstore or Google backup Transport.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I told my students over many years.
There is never ever only one way to do anything.
What is great for one person may not suit another
Just don't use stock at all, some apps like ONE UI home you might be able to get a workaround. There is always a workaround for anything. There use to be workarounds and probably they still exist but in some other way then before, I use to do.
You can remove at least some of the bloatware just by flashing a PNG (Papua New Guinea) or some other financially-unpromising country stock firmware. Just look at the size of the CSC image file, it must be about 64 MB. For example, prism.img in the PNG firmware is absolutely minimal and completely devoid of the "app" dir, so you'll get no forcefully installed "partner" applications. Many other unneeded apps are either uninstallable or blockable in Android 11. Even Google Services are blockable, you'll only get two extra warning notifications after a phone reboot but otherwise no other functionality lost (in case you're using Aurora Store instead of Google Play that is). But actually it will be a pretty privacy-lame system, because there's still a lot of Samsung's and Google's stuff left in the system. So basically, to achieve at least some kind of actual degooglification you have to root it with Magisk, and then uproot all the Samsung's and Google's apps via "adb shell pm uninstall".

Can I prevent an update (or at least stave it off) or must I accept the upcoming update? (I don't want the baseband to increment for rooting)

My phone is forcing upon me an update that I wish to stave off, if possible, or stop altogether if possible.
The upcoming update will happen in a day if I don't figure out how to stop it.
How can we definitively tell if the baseband will be incremented with any given forced update?
And how can we tell if this is a security-only update, or if the baseband will be updated too?
Use Package Disabler or an adb edit to disable these two services. Stops it dead in its tracks.
blackhawk said:
Use Package Disabler or an adb edit to disable these two services. Stops it dead in its tracks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah. Too late! This time anyway.
But your information is good for next time.
I'll use this information in the future (and so can others, which is the point of my fleshing what you just had suggested as the answer) to disable the following two services on my T-Mobile Galaxy A32 5G (SM-326U) Android 12 setup...
<com.sec.android.soagent>
What is com.sec.android.soagent?
What is SOAgent in Samsung Galaxy?
What does com.sec.android.soagent do?
<com.ws.dm>
What is com.ws.dm?
What does com.ws.dm do in a Google Activity?
What does Com WS DS mean?
When I looked to disable those two services using my MuntashirAkon App Manager...
<https://github.com/MuntashirAkon/AppManager>
I found that perhaps that second service has a different name?
<com.sec.android.soagent>
<com.wssyncmldm>
What is com.wssyncmldm?
How to disable com.wssyncmldm
Step by step guide to disabling com.wssyncmldm
All you need to know about com.wssyncmldm
Why disable com.wssyncmldm
How to fix com ws sync mldm
Everything you need to know about com.wssyncmldm
As for "Package Disabler", I didn't even know you could disable system packages without being root (alas, my phone can't be rooted).
It's nice to know you can disable system apps without root.
So that others don't have to look for it, I think I found it here, at least with my first set of search terms.
Package Disabler
<https://www.packagedisabler.com>
The only NON-root solution that let’s you disable any unwanted packages that come pre-installed / installed with your phone / tablet.
You can disable apps with 1 click. Disabled application / package will not be uninstalled or updated using Google play or any other means.
This app also provides password / uninstall protection to avoid misuse.
When I searched on XDA-Developers forum threads for package disabler, I found a bunch of hits, but I don't know which are canonical updated threads.
Package Disabler Pro- De-Bloat & Remove Stock Apps For Better Ram-Battery Life
Package Disabler - Android 11?
which also suggests LADB(Kunal Adb) or PC adb
Package Disabler?
Package Disabler?
New package disabler,works!!!
Package Disabler
Package disabler pro
[GUIDE] [No Root] Disable System Apps & Bloatware: Package Disabler Pro - T-Mobile
Has anyone found an alternative apk to package disabler pro?
Need Help with my note 8 Bootloop caused by disabled Packages
What bloatware have you safely disabled/removed on the Galaxy Tab S3?
These non-forum articles showed up in a google search for more information about this useful "package disabler" tool which purports to disable system packages without needing to be root.
Debloat Galaxy Devices Without Root
Universal Android Debloater helps you get rid of unwanted apps and bloatware on your phone
How to disable any pre-installed system app bloatware on Android without root
Android Central Package Disabler
Regarding the adb commands, I use adb all day every day for a variety of things (see below) but I haven't used adb (or ladb) to disable a service which requires root as I didn't know you could do that.
How to duplicate what adb does to ad hoc open any given Activity on the Android phone?
[adb] [Wireless debugging] [Wi-Fi] Is there an updated XDA tutorial yet on setting up adb COMPLETELY wirelessly as of Android 11+ (no USB cable!)?
[adb] What is the adb syntax to connect wirelessly to Android by unique serial number (instead of by Wi-Fi LAN IP address & random port assignment)?
[adb] [Wireless debugging] [Wi-Fi] Is there an updated XDA tutorial yet on setting up adb COMPLETELY wirelessly as of Android 11+ (no USB cable!)?
(PSA) Using the new Android 12 TILE for 'Developer options' 'Wireless debugging' to establish adb connection over Wi-Fi without USB
[adb,scrcpy,vysor] What ports does Android 12 randomly set when Wi-Fi connecting via Wireless debugging adb "pair" or "connect" commands?
Android 12 Developer options adb "Wireless debugging" option keeps turning off
For any given trusted computer, can we make an adb usb debugging connection on day one & then SAVE adbkey.pub authentication keys for use years later?
As for how to use either local adb (ladb) to disable packages (without needing the PC and without needing to be rooted), my first task was to look up what the ladb commands might be...
Say hello to LADB, a local ADB shell without needing root or a computer!
How to debloat your phone (and more) without connecting to a PC
And then let's look up some of the adb commands to figure out what they are to disable the two services using a PC but without needing to be rooted.
XDA-Developers guide to ADB
ADB Tips & Tricks: ADB commands that every power user should know about!
Obviously I have some homework to do before I can successfully disable the two services listed above without needing to be rooted (as my phone can't be rooted) using just adb (which seems like the easiest way to approach this task)...
Since I'm always connected to my phone via adb anyway (as I mirror my screen and audio onto my PC) I may as well use the adb commands to disable the two update services, where might these be the related necessary adb commands to employ for that task?
C:\> adb shell pm list packages | findstr /i soagent
That should find "package:com.sec.android.soagent"​
C:\> adb shell pm list packages -d | findstr /i soagent
That should find the disabled packages & then grep for "com.sec.android.soagent" which shouldn't (yet) be in that list​
C:\> adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.sec.android.soagent
That should (I hope) disable the listed package (is that correct?)​
C:\> adb shell pm enable --user 0 com.sec.android.soagent
That should (if desired), re-enable the listed package (is that right?)​​Likewise, these are likely the related steps for com.wssyncmldm:
C:\> adb shell pm list packages | findstr /i wssyncmldm
C:\> adb shell pm list packages -d | findstr /i wssyncmldm
C:\> adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.wssyncmldm
C:\> adb shell pm enable --user 0 com.wssyncmldm
But first, may I confirm that my two services are of a different name than that which was initially suggested?
And may I confirm the adb commands to disable those two services?
You can probably roll it back from 12 to 11 if you want provided the boot loader wasn't upgraded too.
This stock Samsung N10+ hasn't been updated in over 3 years; still running on Pie. Current load is over 2.5 yo, still fast, very stable with minimal maintenance. Security simply isn't an issue with its current configuration... screw the Google scare hype. This is what Android is capable of... if you leave it be.
blackhawk said:
You can probably roll it back from 12 to 11 if you want provided the boot loader wasn't upgraded too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for that suggestion, where I really don't know that much about Android, which I openly admit. I can research if pointed in the right direction though.
I am told the bootloader for the T-Mobile A32-5G needs to be version 5 or below (maybe even 3 or below) in order to root the Samsung Galaxy A32-5G, and mine is currently version 8.
I don't know how to roll back a bootloader, but even so, I'm not sure I understand your suggestion of rolling back the Android version from 12 to 11.
How would changing the OS change the bootloader version?
blackhawk said:
This stock Samsung N10+ hasn't been updated in over 3 years; still running on Pie. Current load is over 2.5 yo, still fast, very stable with minimal maintenance. Security simply isn't an issue with its current configuration... screw the Google scare hype. This is what Android is capable of... if you leave it be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I very much appreciate your kind and thoughtful advice that pointed me in the direction of the two packages that I needed to disable, which is what I needed to research in the right direction.
I also much appreciate that you mentioned adb will do the job of disabling those packages without me being rooted, as that too was a required datapoint that I didn't know until you told me.
Thank you very much for your kind advice, where I do agree with you this hype about having the latest security patches isn't something I'm all that worried about.
However....
There is this "nagging concern" that, as of Google's Project Mainline and Project Treble (both since renamed), the way that the 25 core modules update is no longer via carrier updates but over the air with Google Framework Services updates (not to be confused with Google Play Services updates).
AdServices multi-package multi-type Android 13
adbd com.android.adbd APEX Android 11
AppSearch com.android.appsearch APEX Android 13
ART com.android.art APEX Android 12
Bluetooth APEX Android 13
CellBroadcast com.android.cellbroadcast APEX Android 11
Conscrypt com.android.conscrypt APEX Android 10
Device Scheduling com.android.scheduling APEX Android 12
DNS Resolver com.android.resolv APEX Android 10
DocumentsUI com.android.documentsui APK Android 10
ExtServices com.android.ext.services APK (Android 10)
ExtServices com.android.ext.services APEX (Android 11)
IPsec/IKEv2 Library com.android.ipsec APEX Android 11
Media Media: com.android.media Android 10 (extractors)
Media Codecs: com.android.media.swcodec APEX Android 10 (extractors, MediaSession API) Android 11 (MediaParser API)
MediaProvider com.android.mediaprovider APEX Android 11
ModuleMetadata com.android.modulemetadata APK Android 10
Network Stack Network Stack Permission Configuration: com.android.networkstack.permissionconfig
Captive Portal Login: com.android.captiveportallogin
Network Components: com.android.networkstack APK Android 10
NNAPI Runtime com.android.neuralnetworks APK Android 11
OnDevicePersonalization Runtime Multiple Multiple Android 13
PermissionController com.android.permissioncontroller APK Android 10
SDK Extensions com.android.sdkext APEX Android 11
Statsd com.android.os.statsd APEX Android 11
Tethering com.android.tethering APK Android 11
Time Zone Data com.android.tzdata APEX Android 10
UWB com.android.uwb APEX Android 13
Wi-Fi com.android.wifi APEX Android 11
It's all very confusing HOW Android updates nowadays.
Some updates are over the air by the carrier
Other updates are done separately for the 25 core modules
Still others are done over a Google Play Store app Activity
(These last app updates are not really part of the Google Play Store app but the Activity for app updates appears in the settings for the Google Play Store app so a lot of people associate those app updates with the Google Play Store app).
In short, does this method of disabling two packages "really" work to stop all updates?
Or does it just work for the Project Mainline updates?
Or just the carrier supplied security updates?
I don't know.
You're welcome.
The bootloader version can be upgraded but not rolled back on a Snapdragon. If just the rom was upgraded from 11 to 12 it can be rolled back by flashing Android 11 if the bootloader wasn't upgraded too. I think this is the case for you but check it to be sure. Personally I don't muck with the firmware. A Samsung Experience center at a Best Buy can also flash it back to 11.
I really don't worry about updating any apps unless there's a improvement I need, so I don't.
It leads to a more stable platform since everything is already running well, more importantly it's fulfilling its mission. In the end that's all that counts. This is my solution; it may not be what others do but it works very well for me. I send almost zero time now troubleshooting... it just runs.
blackhawk said:
You're welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without you, I wouldn't have known the name of the two packages, nor that adb can disable them without me being rooted. Thanks.
What I don't know, yet anyway, is which of the following software versions those two packages above facilitated the updates for...
Android version [e.g., Android 12]
Baseband version [e.g., A326USQS8BVL3]
Security update [e.g., Dec. 1, 2022]
Google Play System [e.g., March 1, 2022]
Google Play Services [e.g., 22.42.12 (190400-481949630]
Google Play Store [e.g., 33.5.16-21 [0][PR] 4933219047]
Firmware (such as the Qualcomm modem firmware)
25 Core modules in Project Mainline
These are apparently updated either over Google Play Services on the net or OTA by partners.
Default/original apps (such as Chrome, YouTube, etc.)
User apps (of which there may be hundreds)
blackhawk said:
The bootloader version can be upgraded but not rolled back on a Snapdragon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't think it was going to be easy to unlock the bootloader, let alone roll it backward a notch or two.
BTW, it's not a Snapdragon I don't think.
DevCheck (see attached screenshot) shows it to be a "Mediatek Dimensity 720" powering this SM-A326U Galaxy A32 5G.
blackhawk said:
If just the rom was upgraded from 11 to 12 it can be rolled back by flashing Android 11 if the bootloader wasn't upgraded too. I think this is the case for you but check it to be sure. Personally I don't muck with the firmware. A Samsung Experience center at a Best Buy can also flash it back to 11.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've seen that link, and I found it fantastic, where I think I'm stuck in not being able to root unless something new comes up - which is my main purpose here in at least freezing the bootloader version at 8.
The main lack of information I have at the moment is I don't know WHAT PROCESS updates the bootloader.
blackhawk said:
I really don't worry about updating any apps unless there's a improvement I need, so I don't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm with you 100% in that I don't update ANY apps unless I KNOW it has something I want (which almost never happens).
That's good that neither of us worries about app updates because most people don't realize what a MESS app updates truly are!
I've found out most people THINK that the Google Play Store does a check for new apps for ALL your installed apps - but I've tested it and it doesn't even come close (see attached screenshot proof).
The Google Play Store app update section isn't even part of the Google Play Store (it's an Activity within it but it's independent of the Google Play Store app itself) - but what's worse is the fact it updates barely any apps.
Maybe a dozen. Maybe even two dozen.
But the Google Play Store app update Activity MISSES hundreds upon hundreds of apps, which the screenshots below prove to be the case.
Luckily, as a result of that opinion which we both share that we don't update apps unless we need to, this whole app update mess isn't an issue for either one of us, but bear in mind that a LOT of people "think" the Google Play Store app "updates" all their apps.
It's not even close.
blackhawk said:
It leads to a more stable platform since everything is already running well, more importantly it's fulfilling its mission. In the end that's all that counts. This is my solution; it may not be what others do but it works very well for me. I send almost zero time now troubleshooting... it just runs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm like you in that I don't update the hundreds of apps unless any one of them needs to be updated, which almost never happens.
But what is driving me nuts is the CONFUSION about what process updates what part of the Android operating system.
For example, I'm currently at:
The Google Play System = March 1, 2022
Settings > About phone > Software information
The Google Play Services = Version 22.42.12 (190400-481949630)
Settings > Apps > Your apps > Google Play Services
The Google Play Store = 33.5.16-21 [0][PR] 4933219047
Settings > Apps > Your apps > Google Play Services
But what is the process that updates those three entities?
It behooves us to nail this down as I'm confused what is updated when & how.
While there are at least a half dozen important layers of Android which are updated on a variety of schedules, I think the fundamental updated layers may be:
The Android OS version, baseband & security patch levels
The Google Play {System,Services,Store} system update levels
The versions of the 25 core modules of Project Mainline
The versions of the firmware in Project Treble
The versions of all the apps supplied with the native OS
I'm embarrassed, for example, to state that I have no idea whatsoever what updates the BASEBAND, for example.
Worse, I have no idea what process updates the 25 core modules of the Project Mainline modules (which is the core of Android).
Project Mainline core modules in Android 10
Project Mainline core modules in Android 11
Project Mainline core modules in Android 12
Project Mainline core modules in Android 13
What process updates those two dozen critical core modules?
com.wssyncmldm is what does all OTA firmware updates for the phone including the bootloader as far as I know. To stop OTA upgrades only it needs to be disabled. It's the only one that can permanently screw you up.
I'm not familiar with the MediaTek chipsets. Galaxy store updates it's apps as well, I firewall block it unless I need to use it.
I keep installable backup copies of all my apps including system. That way on a reload or if they get an unwanted update, I'm ready.
Worksv on Android 9,10, not sure about higher. Newer versions are on Playstore.
blackhawk said:
com.wssyncmldm is what does all OTA firmware updates for the phone including the bootloader as far as I know. To stop OTA upgrades only it needs to be disabled. It's the only one that can permanently screw you up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for confirming com.wssyncmldm does the over-the-air firmware updates, and, particularly the caveat that it's the only updater package that can permanently screw the ability to root up.
Android is broken into so many components that I am going nuts trying to figure out what updates what - so that helps (a little).
blackhawk said:
I'm not familiar with the MediaTek chipsets. Galaxy store updates it's apps as well, I firewall block it unless I need to use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for bringing up the Galaxy App update mechanism, which I had omitted in my description of what updates apps above.
The OTA update often updates default system apps
The Google Play Store Activity Updater updates "some" apps
The FOSS Google Play Store clients also update "many" apps
The Samsung Galaxy Store updater updates its own apps
There are app updaters I've tested which update ALL apps
(Of course, these assume an update is available.)
Just so that you know, I never create ANY login on my phone, so I can't log into the galaxy store even if I had wanted to do so.
Is there any app in the Samsung Galaxy Store worth the login requirements?
That means I don't have a Google Account set up on my phone either (even as I have a Google Account), so I've learned empirically that if you log into the GMail app even once, it CREATES a Google Account on your phone.
The phone works better WITHOUT the Google Account setup.
Likewise if you log into the Google Maps app, or Google Voice, etc., but luckily ALL the Google apps have equivalent apps which generally work better than the Google apps do anyway.
GMail === FairMail mail client
Chrome === Ungoogled Chromium web client
YouTube === NewPipe YouTube client
Google Play Store === Aurora Google Play Store client
Google Maps === works fine w/o a login
Google Calendar === Etar
Google Messages === Pulse SMS (before Klinker sold to Maple Media)
Google launcher === Nova Launcher (before they sold out)
etc.
Note a good reason for SAVING all the APKs you install is shown in the case of Nova and Pulse where both went over to the dark side.
blackhawk said:
I keep installable backup copies of all my apps including system. That way on a reload or if they get an unwanted update, I'm ready.
Worksv on Android 9,10, not sure about higher. Newer versions are on Playstore.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like you, I maintain all my APKs independently OUTSIDE of the current daily drive phone, where it's all completely automatic.
The FOSS Google Play Store clients have an option to NOT DELETE the APK when you install any app off the Google Play Store repository.
That fact bears repeating.
When you install an app off the Google Play store, presumably this sequence occurs:
1. The client finds the app & then you download the APK
2. The client initiates the installation of the APK
3. Then the client always DELETES the downloaded APK
But when you install that same app off that same repository using the FOSS Google Play Store clients, and if you check the box to NOT DELETE the APK after installation, then THIS sequence happens.
1. The client finds the app & then you download the APK
2. The client initiates the installation of the APK
3. Then the client always DOES NOT DELETE the downloaded APK
In addition, my Android file system and my Windows file systems are exactly the same (so to speak) since I use free WebDAV servers to mount my entire Android filesystem onto Windows as a drive letter over Wi-Fi (no cables necessary).
Can you mount BOTH Android internal & external storage onto Windows as a drive letter over Wi-Fi using a SINGLE WebDAV server?
That way, when I need to re-populate a new phone, I first bring over the homescreen and all the icon locations (which Nova does nicely), and then, one by one, I populate the apps by SLIDING them over using my mouse to slide from Windows to the mirrored Android.
See the screenshots below proving all that I say above.
BTW, I have one WARNING about extracting APKs, where I've tested ALL the free extractors extent, and where I've had some bad experiences where the extracted APK doesn't work on a different model phone (generally it's different in every way, hardware & software).
I've had MUCH BETTER experience just NOT DELETING the APK when it's downloaded off the Google Play Store repository, or the F-Droid repository, or the GitHub/Sourceforge/Guardian/etc., repositories.
This problem, I think, will only get worse as of the August 2022 decree by Google regarding APEX files (instead of APK files) on the Google Play Store repository.
In summary, Android UPDATES are complex, and I do NOT profess to understand what updates what - so any help anyone can provide is welcome as I am confused as to what updates what.
Since my credibility matters, screenshots below prove all I say above.
I use whatever comes in handy and don't go more nuts than I need to in order to get the job done.
The reason to be able to access the Samsung Galaxy store are the free icon packs and themes.
Edge add ons and certain other apps like Sound Assistant. The Good Lock family of apps are of particular interest for a Samsung user.
Nova isn't as fast or efficient as One UI. One UI is a very stable launcher and very customizable.
My stock N10+ homescreen running on One UI, modified with various Good Lock apps and One handed Operation plus. Digi Clock and Energy Ring are 3rd party apps.
blackhawk said:
Nova isn't as fast or efficient as One UI.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nova free went over to the dark side as of the Branch acquisition.
Nova Launcher and Sesame Search have been acquired by Branch, an analytics company
As a direct result of the Branch acquisition, my Nova free is the last known good version (namely the pre-branch 7.0.57 version):
<https://novalauncher.com/beta>
<https://novalauncher.com/apk/NovaLauncher_7.0.57.apk>
Name: NovaLauncher_7.0.57.apk
Size: 8687535 bytes (8483 KiB)
SHA256: 05AE72221D8D4F3D6A111A3220A0C87040806AF4E53053EF64F2DE426990893E
Mostly what I like(d) about Nova free is the ability to save the homescreen (and all the folders, shortcuts, and icons) EXACTLY and then re-load it on any number of phones, no matter what make/model of that phone.
Another feature I really liked about Nova free is its ability to put icons on any grid and in any location whatsoever.
Last summer I had opened a thread seeking a replacement app launcher...
Nova launcher used to be the best free Android launcher - until now - so what's better?
We discussed the merits at that time...
blackhawk said:
One UI is a very stable launcher and very customizable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm happy with my last-known-good-version of Nova free, but because they went over to the dark side, I have to find another app launcher.
If OneUI does those things, I might consider it.
Save homescreen/folders/icons & re-use later
Put icons on any grid (or no grid) whatsoever
GalaxyA325G said:
Mostly what I like(d) about Nova free is the ability to save the homescreen (and all the folders, shortcuts, and icons) EXACTLY and then re-load it on any number of phones, no matter what make/model of that phone.
The only other thing I really liked about Nova free is its ability to put icons on any grid and in any location whatsoever.
I'm happy with my last-known-good-version of Nova free, but because they went over to the dark side, I have to find another app launcher.
If OneUI does those two things, I might consider it.
Save homescreen/folders/icons & re-use later
Put icons on any grid (or no grid) whatsoever
Does it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SmartSwitch can save icons and homescreen, however on a clean load I wouldn't use SmartSwitch other than to save homescreen settings so you'll need to rebuild the icons and apps although Goodlock apps and homepage settings remain in effect. So it's not like you just landed on mars and everything looks unworldly with no button navigation
Other than folders you're locked into the grid pattern.
One UI is faster, more efficient and very stable. In fact in 3 years I've never had it crash and force a reboot. Let me put this way, one of the most surefire ways to boot loop a Samsung is a 3rd party launcher. Been there, done that twice, back to back full reloads That convinced me to live with the white page indicators. That's my only real criticism of One UI.
Pick your poison wisely...
I didn't read the whole thread, but for instance it's already enough to freeze the "Software-Update" package to stop "Software-Update" notifications.
In my S8 with Android 9 it's located in /system/priv-app/FotaAgent/FotaAgent.apk. Just rename to "FotaAgent.apk.bak" and that's it!

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