Related
I have a (4GB) Tronsmart TS7 (some times known as a Alps Glacier TS7). It's a Chinese MTK6589 based phone running Android 4.2 purchased from geekbuying.
For the most part the device is stock, there are next to no pre-installed apps apart from the usual, and the only additional apps I have installed are: Playstation, Steam, ColorNote, Shuttle+, Root Explorer DI Radio, Chrome & Gmail
The problem I have is that there are apps appearing on the device that I am not installing. So far it has been the same set of apps that appear:
Mobo Market
UC Browser
TrustGo Security
DU Battery Saver
337 Game Master
GameCenter
(there may be more)
These apps don't start appearing right after a factory reset, but start to arrive 1-2weeks later. They also seem to be packaged similarly; when I say packaged I mean opening them seems to prompt with the same menu & style (accept licence etc) before it gets to the main app. Also, after you open the app from the app drawer it then creates an icon on the desktop. Maybe opening it actually does the installing?
The apps themselves seem to be legit.
I have factory reset the device (twice), and changed my Google password but they are still appearing. They don't show up in my Play store history so they must be coming from elsewhere.
My main concern is that if it is downloading things without my permission, what might it be uploading ? Not to mention wasting my 3g data etc.
So I have a few questions:
Should I be (really) worried?
Is there a way to monitor this? eg connect to a wifi hotspot and packet capture the network traffic? or maybe use a process monitor (the ones I've tried so far haven't shown anything) to see if there is some sort of script in the background?
Can it be stopped?
Thanks in advance, I would be interested to know if anyone else has/had this problem?
I have the same problem.
I haven't tried flashing some other ROM yet, but I guess that is the only way to get it to stop installing those things.
Have you actually found any other roms to install?
For anybody's information:
You may have noticed how you always end up with a 'Tronsmart.mp4' video file appearing in your gallery app. This is damn annoying since it appears twice, once on the internal and once on the external SD card. There is an '\system\app\CopyTest.apk' file which creates both of these. Should be safe to delete it and thus prevent the file(s) appearing
I have actually decompiled this apk. It works as a service that runs when MEDIA_UNMOUNTED or MEDIA_MOUNTED is invoked, and does absolutely nothing else.
I have the same problem, those random apps installing and the video always in my gallery. I have managed to stop tge apps by using a firewall and allowing only my apps that i want to use the internet. I havent found a solution though to fix the problem. Probably tronsmart is spamming its customers...
mariosm1cy said:
I have managed to stop tge apps by using a firewall and allowing only my apps that i want to use the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What Firewall did you use? I might be able to use something like that to pinpoint the app that's causing this.
Sory for the late reply. I am usin "android firewall" free from google play store.
USB debugging disabled stopped it on mine
edit: not that easy, wasn't enough. made some cleanup by disabing/removing some system apps. seems to work so far although there are still some strange events like superuser crashing and right after that system downloader.apk reappearing. haven't seen any other junk coming back
these are the apk's i removed:
systemupdateassistant
systemdownloader
omacp
mtkbt
midtest
galaxy4
fusedlocation
engineermode
engineermodesim
cds_info
basicdreams.
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?
Hi All,
I'd like some recommendations on steps for locating a stubborn adware infestation that virus scanners don't seem to be able to find on my mobile. System is:
- Samsung SM-G900F
- Android 6.0.1
- unrooted
I get advertising redirects several times per day. It isn't clear where they are coming from. Have tried complete system reset. Uninstalled all downloaded apps. Disabled app auto updating. Ran a Malwarebytes scan. It found nothing.
Is there somewhere a log file for browser calls? At least I could find the app that requests the unwanted URLs.
thunderslug said:
Hi All,
I'd like some recommendations on steps for locating a stubborn adware infestation that virus scanners don't seem to be able to find on my mobile. System is:
- Samsung SM-G900F
- Android 6.0.1
- unrooted
I get advertising redirects several times per day. It isn't clear where they are coming from. Have tried complete system reset. Uninstalled all downloaded apps. Disabled app auto updating. Ran a Malwarebytes scan. It found nothing.
Is there somewhere a log file for browser calls? At least I could find the app that requests the unwanted URLs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you could turn on logging in developer options, though you'll need a little tech skill to use & set up.
Probably an easier way is to use a no root firewall eg
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.faircode.netguard
while the log feature is not free as you only want to find one potential app you can set notifications for internet connection attempts to on, then manually check app & ip address it's trying to connect to win you get popup.
Also you could use this app (it's NOT a proper antivirus app, but a useful 2nd opinion to your actual antivirus), it just allows you to easily see app status from virustotal.com & manually submit any that are suspicious or have not yet been submitted,
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funnycat.virustotal
btw even if you really have uninstalled all 3rd party apps one of the bloatware adk's may have a dodgy ad sdk within it. If so you can (probably) block this with the above firewall if you pay for that feature, without having to root your phone or freeze dodgy app. (Also boot phone into safe mode disables all 3rd polarity apps & see if it still happens)
Note: if system is infected by malware factory reset won't help, you need to reflash the FULL (eg 4 or 5 files inside) Samsung factory ROM with complete wipe. Though as I guess the S5 is not receiving updates anymore, I'd be looking into installing LineageOS to get up to date security patches (after first reinstalling stock ROM asuming you have malware as custom roms are not full roms like samsung factory rom)
thunderslug said:
Hi All,
I'd like some recommendations on steps for locating a stubborn adware infestation that virus scanners don't seem to be able to find on my mobile. System is:
- Samsung SM-G900F
- Android 6.0.1
- unrooted
I get advertising redirects several times per day. It isn't clear where they are coming from. Have tried complete system reset. Uninstalled all downloaded apps. Disabled app auto updating. Ran a Malwarebytes scan. It found nothing.
Is there somewhere a log file for browser calls? At least I could find the app that requests the unwanted URLs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could be xhelper, mostly Chinese phones (what a surprise ?) it seems but at least one Samsung running 6.0.X like you
https://threatpost.com/android-malware-45k-devices-mystery/149654/
Hey guys,
I've done a bit of an oops when I removed some of the bloatware via adb on my F2 Pro and now the native Gallery and Notes apps don't seem to work. I'm getting random pop up notifications of Notes/Gallery not working and some apps don't work properly without the functionality.
I've tried to see if I can reinstall them but no success yet
Not sure if the debug logs are helping but here are the ones for the Gallery app:
Code:
java.lang.ExceptionInInitializerError
at com.miui.gallery.preference.PreferenceHelper.getPreferences(PreferenceHelper.java:25)
at com.miui.gallery.preference.PreferenceHelper.getInt(PreferenceHelper.java:41)
at com.miui.gallery.preference.GalleryPreferences$DataBase.getViewVersion(GalleryPreferences.java:1190)
at com.miui.gallery.provider.GalleryDBHelper.createViewIfNeeded(GalleryDBHelper.java:2066)
at com.miui.gallery.provider.GalleryDBHelper.onCreate(GalleryDBHelper.java:1066)
at org.sqlite.database.sqlite.SQLiteOpenHelper.getDatabaseLocked(SQLiteOpenHelper.java:308)
at org.sqlite.database.sqlite.SQLiteOpenHelper.getReadableDatabase(SQLiteOpenHelper.java:228)
at com.miui.gallery.provider.cache.MediaManager$InitializeTask.run(MediaManager.java:796)
at java.lang.Thread.run(Thread.java:919)
Caused by: java.lang.NullPointerException: Attempt to invoke virtual method 'android.content.SharedPreferences android.content.Context.getSharedPreferences(java.lang.String, int)' on a null object reference
at com.miui.gallery.preference.PreferenceHelper.<init>(PreferenceHelper.java:15)
at com.miui.gallery.preference.PreferenceHelper.<init>(PreferenceHelper.java:11)
at com.miui.gallery.preference.PreferenceHelper$SingletonHolder.<clinit>(PreferenceHelper.java:18)
... 9 more
Some help would be much appreciated!
Use simple gallery and simple notes from F-Droid, way better.
MajorBoobage said:
Use simple gallery and simple notes from F-Droid, way better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason, I am unable to change the default Gallery option so a new Gallery app doesn't help
It won't let me set Gallery default to anything
This happened to me in the past when I removed the Xiaomi Service Framework including the Xiaomi Cloud.
Same Problem. Please Help Xiaomi Cloud + Framework Reinstalled still Gallery app doesn't open
You need mi.cloud.sdk
AsusZenFone3Deluxe said:
You need mi.cloud.sdk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you That indeed solved the issue of Gallery and Notes!! Who would've thought those two need the cloud sdk package
It still doesn't let me change the default Gallery though so there's that
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!