[APP][8.0+] SD Maid 2/SE - System Cleaner - Android Apps and Games

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SD Maid SE (aka. SD Maid 2) is the successor to SD Maid (SD Maid 1/ SD Maid Legacy).
A new app, optimized for modern Android versions, and ready for Google's future challenges .
Description:
SD Maid SE is an open-source zero-bull**** system cleaner.
SD Maid deletes files and you get more free space. That's the deal!
SD Maid 1 and 2 share core features:
CorpseFinder: Find files belonging to uninstalled apps
SystemCleaner: Delete superfluos files from all over the device
AppCleaner: Delete expendable ("hidden caches") files from apps
AppControl: Manage installed applications
Scheduling operations
Protecting files with exclusions
Download links
Google Play
Google Play Beta Builds
GitHub releases
SD Maid SE has a "Pro version".
The Google Play release requires a payment, while the Github release asks for a payment.
Be nice, support your devs .
Changelog
GitHub release notes are the official changelog.
Bugs / Requests
Please use the issue tracker for bug reports.
I'll also discuss issues else where but usually a lot of helpful information gets lost if it's not organised, so use the issue tracker if it's important .

Feedback and bug reports are very welcome. It's a beta release, please be gentle.
I promise it's not as rough as SD Maid 1's first releases though .
If you encounter an issue, a video of it and a debug log would very useful.
You can go into Settings>Support and click "Debug log"
To stop the recording, find the related notification and click on done.
Things I'm looking for are:
All kinds of app crashes
Weird UI behavior
Bad results, either false positives that shouldn't be shown, or false negatives that SD Maid 1 finds, but SD Maid 2 doesn't
Of course any clutter that neither SD Maid detects
Specific instances of slow down. Not general "it is slower than SD Maid 1", but it something like "AppCleaner" takes super long if I don't exclude App XYZ"

Very keen for this! Long time Pro user of SD Maid 1

What a fantastic birthday present!!! SDMaid2 and myself will be sharing this day from now on. Thank

Will SD Maid 1 get further updates or is it time to change and pay again? But I have done it to support your work

I no guy th and used the pro version of 1, and will now be happy to purchase and use v2. Will get and prob purchase tomarrow!!!

Long time pro user of SD Maid, i love your work!
I think AppControl is the part of the app that needs the most work to get all the old features: filtering is not present, such as every possible action you can do in SD Maid when clicking on an app to manage

Rokcy98 said:
Long time pro user of SD Maid, i love your work!
I think AppControl is the part of the app that needs the most work to get all the old features: filtering is not present, such as every possible action you can do in SD Maid when clicking on an app to manage
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Filter and search will be there soon.
I'm open for a discussion on what features we need.
Currently it just has some shortcuts and enable/disable for apps.
Uninstall of normal apps could work, but doesn't work well without root? Uninstall for system apps with root is a can of worms... due to remounting etc.
Rootless mass uninstall via accessibility service maybe? Will have to check Google policies on that...

So I have some questions about going pro. I have no issues with repurchasing new app or doing a subscription, but 1- is subscription monthly or yearly and what is the cost? 2. I'm guessing there won't be a 1 time lifetime (of new app) payment to go pro? I'm only trying to figure out what would be the best option for myself while not being wasteful but also supporting development. I mean 5.49 for 2 years is fine, but if there were an option for lets say 10$ for 5 years or lifetime of app(obviously no guarantees it will go on for 5 years) I would pay the 10$. Or I'm guessing you are doing the subscription/2 year payment because you are not comfortable making a longer commitment longer than 2 years of support? Just seeing if there could be another option so I don't have to remember I have to purchase again when the time comes.

Dark3n said:
Filter and search will be there soon.
I'm open for a discussion on what features we need.
Currently it just has some shortcuts and enable/disable for apps.
Uninstall of normal apps could work, but doesn't work well without root? Uninstall for system apps with root is a can of worms... due to remounting etc.
Rootless mass uninstall via accessibility service maybe? Will have to check Google policies on that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it with root,
Things that are missing:
- uninstall/mass uninstall, at least for user apps
- freeze/mass freeze
- close/force close (mass close/force close)
- activity list and the ability to create shortcuts from them
- export apk
- clean data
I mean, sd maid has an app manager, sd maid 2 has an app list for now.
I don't know what's your intention, maybe you don't want to integrate a full app manager in SD maid 2, but in case you want, well, all the features of the old app are missing

With the new Update the settinge Button dont work

Anyone tried this on a Firestick or Cube yet? Does it work with Amazon Fire Devices?

Thebear j koss said:
So I have some questions about going pro. I have no issues with repurchasing new app or doing a subscription, but 1- is subscription monthly or yearly and what is the cost? 2. I'm guessing there won't be a 1 time lifetime (of new app) payment to go pro? I'm only trying to figure out what would be the best option for myself while not being wasteful but also supporting development. I mean 5.49 for 2 years is fine, but if there were an option for lets say 10$ for 5 years or lifetime of app(obviously no guarantees it will go on for 5 years) I would pay the 10$.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you might have misunderstood the upgrade screen.
It's currently ~5€ for lifetime, or ~2€ per year.
Anything idea how I could improve the wording?
Or I'm guessing you are doing the subscription/2 year payment because you are not comfortable making a longer commitment longer than 2 years of support? Just seeing if there could be another option so I don't have to remember I have to purchase again when the time comes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a bit of an experiment, I don't have a lot of experience with subscriptions.
In general I think that a subscription is a better model for development because it incentivizes development that keeps existing users happy as much as gaining new users.
With an IAP you are encouraged to "chase" new users, add new features that motivated new users to buy an app, not such much keeping existing users happy that already upgraded.
Also resource wise it's the more "sane" model for developers to live on, as it's constant income. The economics on apps, e.g. buy an app once, free updates forever are brutal.
Most users hate subscriptions and probably wouldn't switch to SD Maid 2 if it was subscription only, so I also have an IAP. While worse than a subscription for devs, it worked out well for SD Maid 1. Though this is also an extreme example. Early pro users got 12 years of updates for like 2€?3€? Was only feasible due to how popular SD Maid is and how lean I could do development.
I'm only trying to figure out what would be the best option for myself while not being wasteful but also supporting development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Buy the one-time purchase on Google Play for the convenience and for any extra support sponsor development via GitHub:
Sponsor @d4rken on GitHub Sponsors
Support open-source Android apps.
github.com
hanschke said:
With the new Update the settinge Button dont work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The one on the dashboard in the bottom right right? I can't reproduce it. What ROM/device?
cdub74 said:
Anyone tried this on a Firestick or Cube yet? Does it work with Amazon Fire Devices?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have these to test, so if you tried it out and find issues, let me know

The Dashboard Button work fine Yesterday in Android 14 DP 2 and today I got the Update and I cannot go into the prefs.

Rokcy98 said:
I use it with root,
Things that are missing:
- uninstall/mass uninstall, at least for user apps
- freeze/mass freeze
- close/force close (mass close/force close)
- activity list and the ability to create shortcuts from them
- export apk
- clean data
I mean, sd maid has an app manager, sd maid 2 has an app list for now.
I don't know what's your intention, maybe you don't want to integrate a full app manager in SD maid 2, but in case you want, well, all the features of the old app are missing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm working on mass selection currently so that will come. I have created some feature tickets on GitHub to see which app manager functions have demand.
Uninstall functionality · Issue #30 · d4rken-org/sdmaid-se
Should AppControl get a mass uninstall feature similar to what SD Maid 1 had? With root it should work quite well. I didn't like the way it worked without root in SD Maid 1 though. We could try to ...
github.com
Force stop apps feature? · Issue #31 · d4rken-org/sdmaid-se
Should we add a feature to AppControl that allows force stopping of apps? "TaskKillers" are bad, so this shouldn't be a "force stop all running apps". What would be use-cases for mass force-stoppin...
github.com
APK export? · Issue #32 · d4rken-org/sdmaid-se
Does it make sense to add a feature that allows exporting APKs of installed apps? I think usefulness of this is diminishing due to Google pushing app bundles which are not easy to install again eit...
github.com
hanschke said:
The Dashboard Button work fine Yesterday in Android 14 DP 2 and today I got the Update and I cannot go into the prefs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Might be an Android 14 issue? I'm testing on Android 13.

hanschke said:
Will SD Maid 1 get further updates or is it time to change and pay again? But I have done it to support your work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SD Maid 1 will get maintenance updates (security, small bugs), but no compatibility fixes if Google breaks stuff or general improvements.
hanschke said:
The Dashboard Button work fine Yesterday in Android 14 DP 2 and today I got the Update and I cannot go into the prefs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Couldn't reproduce it on an Android 14 emulator.
Can you force a debug log by creating this file:
/sdcard/Android/data/eu.darken.sdmse/files/force_debug_run
and sending it to me after reproducing it on the log?

We dont have to search further because I want do it and now the Button works

So I'm not understanding the 1 time purchase breaks even after 2 years. That is what is throwing me off. So if it's 2$ a year and the 1 time payment of 5$ for life of the app or it will be 5$ in 2 years?

Thanks for the refreshed release! Purchased the Pro to support the development.
A suggestion if I may - AppCleaner to run in the background instead of foreground, just like the old SD Maid.

Thebear j koss said:
So I'm not understanding the 1 time purchase breaks even after 2 years. That is what is throwing me off. So if it's 2$ a year and the 1 time payment of 5$ for life of the app or it will be 5$ in 2 years?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's 2$ per year or 5$ for lifetime.
Why is this so confusing? You are not the first person to be confused by this.
I just don't understand where the confusion is coming from, can you help me understand?
A product can both be "rented" and "bought". Buying something is usually more expensive than renting it. Let's say you can live in a house for 2$ per year, or you can buy the house for 5$. Then break-even point is after 2.5 years (5$/2$) the moment in-time at which it would have been financially more attractive to have bought the house.
A more visual example:
Person A and B meet in a cafe and of course start talking about the new SD Maid 2/SE.
Both agree that it's the best thing since sliced bread.
Person A buys the one-time purchase for ~5$, because they hate subscriptions.
Person B buys the subscription at ~2$ per year, because Person B isn't sure that they will keep using it.
Then life happens. After 3 years they both meet again on the street.
The first thing they talk about is of course how great SD Maid is.
Person A then asks Person B if they are still using Android and using SD Maid via subscription.
Person B admits that they are still using SD Maid and paying for the subscription.
Then Person A laughs at Person B, because if they bought the one-time purchase 3 years ago, they would have saved money by now. But for Person B it wasn't about paying less, they just wanted to provide on-going support to the developer and didn't mind the subscription.
Then they part ways and never see each other again, because friends don't laugh at friends for supporting developers via subscription.
Fishawy said:
Thanks for the refreshed release! Purchased the Pro to support the development.
A suggestion if I may - AppCleaner to run in the background instead of foreground, just like the old SD Maid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate? Do you mean the AppCleaner deletion using the accessibility service? That also never worked in the background in SD Maid 1.

Related

[APP 2.3+] 3C Toolbox (aka Android Tuner)

Dear users,
Considering all 3C apps are now based on the same source code, they all behave the same way, and will exhibit the same issues. Any queries will also likely applies to all apps.
To make my life easier while continuing to provide support here (and start with a clean slate), I decided to close all my app threads and open a fresh new thread here.
With your continuous help and support, the past 4 years have been a great adventure and experience. Let's take a fresh start and continue this amazing adventure.
Thank you all!
*** See at the end of this post on how to get support for any issues ***
The most comprehensive toolbox to save battery, tweak, tune, backup, secure and monitor any Android devices running any ROMs, any kernels.
What is 3C Toolbox
Replaces 20+ apps easily worth 30€ for the price of a couple of beers!
NB: Starting with version 1.0.3, Android 2.2.x and 2.1.x are no longer supported. App supports Android 2.3 and above, including Android L preview.
Safest root app on Play Store: I run the app and all its features on at least 4 devices every day, and change 3 of them frequently for testing purposes. With about 250.000+ actual users, it's pretty safe to assume the app is very safe. App can create a reset package to disable all system tweak features from CWM/TWRP at any time. App has automatic fallback in case of boot loops while re-configuring the CPU.
See signature for download links.
☺ App Features
☺ 3C Apps Feature Comparison
☺ More app screenshots
☺ Low CPU consumption, please check benchmarks
☺ Get started guide
☺ Online help
♦♦ Unique features not available elsewhere ♦♦
◊ Track your ROM, kernel and battery performance (%/h or mA, screen on or standby)
◊ Battery milli-amp (mA), mW and %/h consumption reporting
◊ Automatic backup of installed and updated applications
◊ Highly configurable graphical monitoring widgets
◊ Advanced script editor
♦♦ Unique features not available elsewhere (root required) ♦♦
◊ Clean and safe reboots, without data loss
◊ Turn on/off APN, BT discovery, tethering, GPS & WiFi Localization
◊ Logcat reader for Android JellyBean 4.1.x
◊ Easiest Link2SD / App2SD capabilities ever
◊ More about permissions requested
◊ Issues with CPU temperature or battery current mA or capacity mAh?
Please explain this in a support request from app settings, help and support so we can provide the appropriate option to use in 'mA retrieval method' of battery / monitoring settings and add out-of-the-box support for your device. All necessary information is provided in the request's attachments.
◊ How to get support for any other issues
Please send a support request from app settings, help and support. You need to clearly explain your issue, attach any relevant screenshots showing where and how the issue occurs. I will not provide any support here.
All I ask is to provide reasonable details for me to be able to help, empty requests are mostly trashed, I keep one requests per device for the sake of a possible source of information for how the app supports things, to possibly fix things too or compare between variants of the same device.
For example a support request contain the following (you can check the content before sending it!),
all discovered SD cards, very useful for any related issues, including the mentioned read cache stuff.
app installation path and configuration, for xposed, battery, cpu, tweaks, apps or task managers problems.
battery history and configuration for any battery problems.
CPU configuration for CPU problems, including thermal, mp, voltage, etc
The idea is that you explain the observed issue, possibly add a screenshot so that I know exactly where to look for (app has 100+ screens and sometimes words don't mean the same for you and me), and there I can really do a good job at helping you.
PS: And so you know, I hate liars, insults, disrespect and myself. So please try to avoid those when requesting support.
Actually if you want support, posting the whole support request content, the screenshot and details here should be ok. Doing otherwise, I'll either ignore you completely or send you elsewhere very quickly, you want to leave me a one star rating, so be it: developing is my passion and I love it, you want my help, do it the right way or don't at all. I don't develop for stars, I develop for fun.
Attention !!!! Installs an apk to /system/ dosnt know what it does !!! Apk is there when uninstalled too !!!!
Will the users of BMW pro and system tuner pro get a discount or count this as an upgrade?
Amazing! Downloading now.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Hi 3c,
Not a bad idea to make an "all in one", just need to see about memory, battery and CPU usage... but I am pretty confident about that
No more update for System Tuner pro?
In all cases I buy it! (although slightly damage the impressive increase in the price ).
Thanks and congratulations for your new app
DJxSpeedy said:
Attention !!!! Installs an apk to /system/ dosnt know what it does !!! Apk is there when uninstalled too !!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've updated the first post with more information about that. Will publish an updated APK to ask user permission before installing it within the next hour.
EDIT: Didn't expected you guys to be so quick while I finalize the publishing of all required information.
By the way, the uninstall process can't uninstall other stuff, but as a rooted device, you should have no problem getting rid of this APK.
Please try the new APK published a minute ago (available in a couple of hours) that will allow you to refuse the APK installation.
dirtyreturn said:
Will the users of BMW pro and system tuner pro get a discount or count this as an upgrade?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, just contact me with the order lists (bmw, system tuner and the new android tuner) and I'll refund old apps. This is the migration plan I'm working on.
EDIT: As of December 20th, 2013, direct refunds on Play Store are no longer possible. This was the only available way to offer discounts in a decent way. PayPal was an alternative available until February 2014, but it was abandonned because of the complexity, 30+% extra fees and the lack of global support (some countries could not receive refunds).
viking37 said:
Hi 3c,
Not a bad idea to make an "all in one", just need to see about memory, battery and CPU usage... but I am pretty confident about that
No more update for System Tuner pro?
In all cases I buy it! (although slightly damage the impressive increase in the price ).
Thanks and congratulations for your new app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, high price for now to avoid users who just try any apps and put comments after a few minutes of testing. And also to be able to offer discounts by refunding old apps paid version.
Nevertheless there will be updates on existing apps (not everyone wants an all in one app) with existing improvements, except features that require additional permissions.
Do you think youll ever add ability to spoof app permissions? And let user input the value... This would be an ultimate feature!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
NicholasQ said:
Do you think youll ever add ability to spoof app permissions? And let user input the value... This would be an ultimate feature!
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm looking into this actually, along with a smart "renicer", but both requires hacking Android or every APK to monitor and it turns out to be very complex.
There's 3 existing solutions on Market today:
- Hacking of Android class loader, as done by LBE Security app.
- Hacking of APK installed, as done by SRT Guard
- Patching the ROM like PDroid does.
They all have their advantages and problems, but the APK hacking seems the best option to go for as it results in a more stable experience, not as dependent on Android version as the 2 others and probably less disruptive as LBE can be when it messes up one's device. But then I'm not sure an APK can actually be installed properly
That said, I'm still looking into the first solution hacking app loading directly.
3c said:
I've updated the first post with more information about that. Will publish an updated APK to ask user permission before installing it within the next hour.
EDIT: Didn't expected you guys to be so quick while I finalize the publishing of all required information.
By the way, the uninstall process can't uninstall other stuff, but as a rooted device, you should have no problem getting rid of this APK.
Please try the new APK published a minute ago (available in a couple of hours) that will allow you to refuse the APK installation.
Yes, just contact me with the order lists (bmw, system tuner and the new android tuner) and I'll refund old apps. This is the migration plan I'm working on.
Yes, high price for now to avoid users who just try any apps and put comments after a few minutes of testing. And also to be able to offer discounts by refunding old apps paid version.
Nevertheless there will be updates on existing apps (not everyone wants an all in one app) with existing improvements, except features that require additional permissions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We are Quick we are fast...we are xda !
DJxSpeedy said:
We are Quick we are fast...we are xda !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at removing bad comment on Market though
So i take it you find this app extremely bad to rate it one star, right?
yes iam that i dosnt have it installed atm.. but one is good that you are here.. i have another bug for you
why does it make an backup of build.prop when i change nothing at it ?
DJxSpeedy said:
yes iam that i dosnt have it installed atm.. but one is good that you are here.. i have another bug for you
why does it make an backup of build.prop when i change nothing at it ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far you didn't find any bugs.
changed my play store entry about it
Is this [really] compatible with gingerbread? It lags, 'freezes' on screen and I have to long click the home button. I am using a sensation 4g 2.3.4. I'll get a logcat if you will find that that will help.
DJxSpeedy said:
changed my play store entry about it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, appreciated. I'm sure your new entry will be more useful to new users.
So I still hope you can enjoy my new app and report any of your findings, directly here or best is using the 'support request' from the app settings, it provides a lot of useful information for debugging
dirtyreturn said:
Is this [really] compatible with gingerbread? It lags, 'freezes' on screen and I have to long click the home button. I am using a sensation 4g 2.3.4. I'll get a logcat if you will find that that will help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is compatible. When did it lag? After requesting to install the system app or at some other times?
When lagging, the OS usually creates a file in /data/anr/traces.txt. If you experience a new lag, you can send it to me, possibly using the support request feature in the app settings. You can then attach a file to the newly created email.
When it comes to lags (or ANRs for that matter), logcat is useless. It only mentions a reference to the traces.txt file
3c said:
Yes it is compatible. When did it lag? After requesting to install the system app or at some other times?
When lagging, the OS usually creates a file in /data/anr/traces.txt. If you experience a new lag, you can send it to me, possibly using the support request feature in the app settings. You can then attach a file to the newly created email.
When it comes to lags (or ANRs for that matter), logcat is useless. It only mentions a reference to the traces.txt file
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To me (if I'm wrong it's all user error) the system apk it was requesting to install (it appeared to me) was for ics/jb, so I refused the install. Your app kept requesting to install the extras. After a little thought - is the extra apk mandatory? No intention to cause any concern if what I'm experiencing is nonsense. I have not rated your app on the play store.
It lagged randomly.
dirtyreturn said:
To me (if I'm wrong it's all user error) the system apk it was requesting to install (it appeared to me) was for ics/jb, so I refused the install. Your app kept requesting to install the extras. After a little thought - is the extra apk mandatory? No intention to cause any concern if what I'm experiencing is nonsense. I have not rated your app on the play store.
It lagged randomly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The extra APK is now only for specific toggles as I manage to find a different work around for the JB logcat issue. Those toggles include the APN (mobile data), background data (this one's obsolete), debug mode, unknown sources, gps and wifi localization. The 1 useful toggles is for GPS though.
Until you press 'do not ask again', the app would continue to request the APK installation ;(
As for the lags you're experiencing that seems like a bug. Have you found any trace.txt in /data/anr directory by any chance?
It's just fair to be concerned with things like that, I can understand. But installing an app requesting 35 permissions, then granting root access to that app and then being scared about a 40Kb APK being installed on /system folder is quite funny actually.
If I may make this comparison, it's like letting a heavily armed man (the 35 permissions+root) in your home and then being worried being he is hiding a wallet (the 40Kb apk) in your home!
Anyway, bad comments always call for improvements
3c said:
The extra APK is now only for specific toggles as I manage to find a different work around for the JB logcat issue. Those toggles include the APN (mobile data), background data (this one's obsolete), debug mode, unknown sources, gps and wifi localization. The 1 useful toggles is for GPS though.
Until you press 'do not ask again', the app would continue to request the APK installation ;(
As for the lags you're experiencing that seems like a bug. Have you found any trace.txt in /data/anr directory by any chance?
It's just fair to be concerned with things like that, I can understand. But installing an app requesting 35 permissions, then granting root access to that app and then being scared about a 40Kb APK being installed on /system folder is quite funny actually.
If I may make this comparison, it's like letting a heavily armed man (the 35 permissions+root) in your home and then being worried being he is hiding a wallet (the 40Kb apk) in your home!
Anyway, bad comments always call for improvements
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems permissions are about the same as some system apps. the taces.txt is up for you. Hope it does something helpful. Thanks for the app. I had sent a PM with the information about the purchases. I do not use google wallet.
Awesome news that you are working on user defined app permissions. I really hope you can find a good work around. And I do currently use SRT appguard in conjuction with Android Tuner and I did notice it seems to handle disabling app permissions pretty good. The only downside is that you won't get app updates from market but that's not a big deal to me. I think if you can get the spoofing action to work, a lot of people are going to want your app. There are plenty of times I haven't downloaded an app because I didn't like it's permissions. So being able to control them without breaking the app will be a dream come true.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium

[APP][4.4+] "App manager" - alternative to the default app manger

After so long of developing apps for other people, I've decided to make one 100% by myself, and publish it.
The app is basically an alternative to the default app-manager of Android, and it provides some unique features that helps you manage and uninstall apps quicker and easier.
If you've found this app useful, please support it by sharing/donating/comment on the play store.
Installation link :
APK mirror:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/androiddeveloperlb/app-manager/
ApkPure:
https://apkpure.com/app-manager/com.lb.app_manager
Some screenshots
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
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"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
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"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
So, here's some information about it:
Background
How many times have you tried to uninstall an app but found it annoyingly hard, whether you've forgot its name or it's hidden in a bunch of many apps you have?
Have you ever wanted to uninstall a built in app, which came from the carrier/manufacturer?
Are you a programmer/tester and need to uninstall/reset your apps frequiently?
If so, this is the app for you.
Short description
As I've written ,the purpose of this app is to replace the default app-manager, and ease the uninstallation task as much as possible.
The app is free and supports Android 2.3 and above, but works best from Android 4.0.
The app has ads (banners) but you can easily remove them by donating.
Who is it useful for?
The app is intended for multiple kinds of people:
For the common user, it's easier to perform searches of apps, easier to unisnstall them, and easier to share them.
It's also easier to go to the play store page of the app ,give feedback about it and contact the developers.
For power users, it's easier to uninstall built in apps (AKA "system apps"), like the bloatware that come with the OS.
For developers, QA, and beta testers, it's easier to uninstall/reset the recently installed app, by using widgets.
You can also share apps as APK files, and see the version of the apps.
Features and advantages over other apps
Viewing of app types of apps, and not just those that you can launch (example: plugins, live wallpapers, keyboards,...).
Widgets, for quick uninstallation/reset of the most recently installed app.
Quick uninstallation of apps. For rooted devices, the uninstallation (and other operations) can be silent (in the background)
Easy uninstallation of apps that got admin privilages.
Ability to automatically add app shortcuts when they get installed, no matter how they got installed.
Also the ability to choose which launcher will create the shortcuts.
Easy to use - one click to uninstall. Long click for multi-selection
Context menu options on selected app:
Run
Share Play store link, Amazon AppStore link, or even APK file (no need for Root)
Manage
Open app on the Play store.
Kill background process, or stop the app (needs root)
Quick reset of the app (needs root).
disable/enable app (needs root).
Create shortcut.
Search the app via your search engine or the Internet.
Sort the apps bysize, name, by package name, by date installed, and by date updated
Filter apps by:
System/user apps,
Enabled/disabled apps
Installation path : SD card / internal storage
Ability to uninstall system apps (Root only, and might not work on some cases)
Ability to replace the default uninstaller .
Detailed yet short view of the installed apps, including app name, package name, date insalled and version information.
Safe and automatic deletion of certain folders after uninstallation, that some Android OS versions don't handle for some reason.
Theme chooser, in case you don't like the cards UI.
Hopefully more to come, will be written about on the play store
App translation
https://crowdin.com/project/com-lb-app_manager
Beta testing
Links for the beta testing group:
- https://play.google.com/apps/testing/com.lb.app_manager
Articles
https://web.archive.org/web/2014050...roid/supercharge-your-android-app-management/
http://reviewttb.blogspot.in/2014/04/app-manager-review.html
http://iandroid.co.il/dr-iandroid/archives/16296
http://www.appbrain.com/app/app-manager/com.lb.app_manager
https://www.androidrank.org/application/app_manager/com.lb.app_manager
FAQ
The OS says the app runs in the background, or the app has a notification of its own. Why? Doesn't it consume battery?
The app is triggered by app operation events : uninstall, install, clear-data...
Upon each of those, it saves the state for various purposes, in the background. For example the removed-apps list, and the widget. Those have to be handled right away, so it must be done even if you don't see the app.
In the rest of the time, it does absolutely nothing.
This is why the app is so efficient in battery usage, that you won't see it in the list of battery-consuming apps. Meaning it doesn't even reach the 1% battery usage. I am sure it doesn't even reach 0.001% .
You can hide the notification, but sadly on some Android versions (8.0, but not 8.1 and above) you might see a different notification, that the app might use the battery. You can safely ignore it. I guarantee there is no noticeable difference in battery consumption.
In fact, due to the optimizations I've added for Android 8.0 and above, and because the app's process doesn't get killed so often, it might even be better in battery usage. The reason is that the app always had to listen to app-events, and before Android 8.0, the app got triggered by them, meaning its process started each time if it was killed before. Less CPU, more battery.
I have a Xiaomi device and the app fails to install any kind of app. How come ?
Seems it's an issue that will exist for quite some time, and that it is turned by default on Xiaomi devices and causes various issues (read here for example). This "feature" is called "MIUI optimization" , and for now you can only disable it on the "Developer options".
So, for now, you can overcome this by enabling developer options and there to disable "Turn on MIUI optimization".
Note that once you do this, the OS will reset a lot of apps, mainly in terms of permissions. This includes my app too.
Just a side note: Xiaomi is known as one that breaks a lot of apps, as it creates its own made up rules and permissions, very much against how Android works. This is also why there is a website that speaks about it, here, so for better handling of the app, also white list it from the various permissions Xiaomi has created, too.
Sadly I have no way to handle those things, as long as Xiaomi chooses to make their own non-standard rules.
I don't have a rooted device, but I still want to disable/uninstall a system app. Is it possible?
It's possible... to try, using a PC connected to your device.
I've made a tutorial for this here (old one here ).
If the OS would allow, you could uninstall or at least disable system apps this way.
I think I got some nasty app, which shows ads randomly or takes control of the smartphone in some way (or any other bad behavior that I don't like). Can this app help me find it and neutralize it?
Even though it wasn't originally intended for such a task, I've noticed it helped many people with it. There are multiple reviews telling that it helped them removing such "virus" apps. I've even done it myself on both my device and for my family-relatives.
So the answer is that it might help you. Here's what you can do to try to handle it:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77987186&postcount=543
What are split-APK files? What are "APKS" that are being generated sometimes when sharing apps?
Split apk files (AKA "app bundle" apps) are not meant to be installed just like normal APK files. They are used as you use the app, getting installed by the Play Store, to use only the minimal things you will use on your device, with your Android version, with your CPU architecture, with your locales, with your screen density, and so on...
Not only that, but if you install such files on other configurations, they might not work properly or fail to install.
As far as I know, backup&restore of such apps is not even working on popular backup apps such as Titanium backup.
Currently the app allows to share such apps as APKS files, which is just a zipped file with all of the APK files of the app. This is similar to what's done on various other apps and services (SAI, ApkPure, APK-mirror,...) with various file extensions (APKS, XAPK, APKM,...).
To install them using my app (which supports all files that I've mentioned: APKS, XAPK, APKM ), you can currently do this only from other apps that trigger it. The most common way to do it is directly from file-manager apps, but this should also be possible via chatting apps and others.
If you wish to do it on your via the PC, you can do it too:
use adb command as such:
Code:
adb install-multiple apk1 apk2 ...
Why isn't there a permissions management feature?
For permissions management, I actually planned some management tool, but sadly Google has changed how permissions groups work, and so permissions sometimes go to a different group. For example, before Android P, the permission "WRITE_CALL_LOG" belonged to "Phone" permission group, but from Android P, it moved to "Call log" permission group, which never existed before.
Currently, Google removed all APIs to get which permission group has which permission. Even in the documentation there is no mention anymore which permission group holds which permissions. Not only that, but OEMs sometimes make up their own permission which aren't official in any way (see "auto start" that Xiaomi made, and the reason that "don't-kill-my-app" website exists, for example). I still hope that one day I will be able to get a reliable way to get the correct information, no matter which version of Android the app runs on.
Why isn't there an option to install an old version of an APK when I have a newer one installed?
Apps aren't designed to handle this situation. They are only designed to handle upgrades. So, Google made it impossible to do it starting from Android 7 (read here). If you want to try it anyway, you can do it using PC&adb tool, as written here.
Why isn't there a boot-up management feature? Memory freeing/boosting? CPU usage? RAM usage? Automatic-task-killing? Modify apps ?
Various features of those types are not documented and not recommended to be used. Those can ruin how the apps work, just like OEMs do it sometimes even by default. This can also cause false crashes, or crashes that can't be reported. For users, some of those functions have the false promise by various apps that say it will make reduce battery consumption (search google for "Android task killer myth").
It is not a good thing to alter how apps work and behave, and Google has rules about modifying APKs, so I do not want to take the risk in doing so.
As for viewing information alone, this is something that isn't useful for users, but more for developers who already have them via the various development tools and even apps that specialize about it.
This app was made for users and power users mostly, and I want to make it work properly as much as possible, without worrying that for some devices or at some day things will be broken. I prefer to have as little workarounds as possible.
That's why I decided to stick with things that are more standard, more commonly used, and more available to be used.
I have an SD-card. Why can't I set an installed app to be on it, properly?
Installing an app to the SD-card has various restrictions that determine whether it's possible or not, and how much it will affect how well the app behaves.
To do it here, you have to have a rooted device (or use a PC with adb command as written above), the OS should allow to do it, and the target app should allow to do it.
That being said, you might try your luck via the developer-settings of the OS (check how to enable it on Google for your device), via "force allow apps on external" preference.
Why not share version-name and app-name alone instead of version-code and package-name with others?
Simply put, version-name and app-name are not unique enough, depend on the current locale, can be of any length (so it can be too long) and not restricted by which characters are used (so can be problematic on some OSs).
That's while version-code is always an increasing number, and package-name is always safe to use and is considered as the ID of the app on the Play Store and probably on any app-store.
That being said, I might allow to customize what to share some day, and let users be responsible of possible issues if they might occur.
In the past versions, the app didn't need to run in the background, and didn't need to have usage-stats permission at all. What happened?
In one word: Google . Google has changed the rules:
- For running in the background , the reason is that a lot of types of global events (called "Intents") need to be handled only with an app that has a sticky notification (called "foreground service"). Before Android 8.0, it was possible without this requirement. The app would have been awakened for each such event, handle it and go to sleep, while the OS can kill it if needed. Now it's not possible (read here). Adding to this, is that Google forces all new apps and updated to existing ones to do it for Android 8.0 and above, by the end of the year (read here). This means you should expect more apps to show their notifications, or they will present a weaker functionality.
The good news is that this actually helps with battery usage on Android 8.0 and above. Instead of re-creating the process of App-Manager for each event, the process is already alive, so less CPU will be used. And, since it's already alive, handling it will take less time. So, less CPU and less time, meaning more battery for you. You can also hide the notification if it bothers you.
- For usage-stats permission, before Android 8.0 I could get the exact app-size without any permission. And, before Android 5.0, I could get the recently launched apps with a permission that doesn't require requesting in runtime. Because of the recent changes, this is not possible anymore without usage-stats permission. And, since getting app-size and sorting apps by recently launched - are quite basic features, I decided to request it all in the beginning together with the storage permission that was always a requirement.
Getting the app-size was tricky before Android 8.0, and so I added a fallback in case it's not working for some users, or working too slow for them. It wasn't perfect, but it was all I could do.
The good news about this, is that it's much more efficient than what I did before. Getting app size is super fast, and it will always work because there is now an official way to do it. In fact it's so quick that I've removed the fallback for Android 8.0 and above.
Privacy policy ?
Written on this post.
Thank you!
Very simple and useful app!
newHere:) said:
Thank you!
Very simple and useful app!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcomed, and I do hope that it will succeed as I wish to improve it even more and make other useful and cool apps.
cool app,very helpfull for me,because im test so many apps from here and now its much easier to deinstalling,i like it!!!
-CALIBAN666- said:
cool app,very helpfull for me,because im test so many apps from here and now its much easier to deinstalling,i like it!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's actually why I made the app myself, since I am both a developer and a user that tries out many apps.
will try it!! sounds nice
I would like to get some feedback from you people:
1. What is the best feature that you liked on the app?
2. What is the best feature that you'd like to have?
3. In case you have a good English accent, have the ability to record your device, would you like to put your video review?
If so, I will put your video (if it's good enough) on the play store, along with credits (or you put them at the end of the video if you wish).
No ads in the video, please .
AndroidDeveloperLB said:
I would like to get some feedback from you people:
1. What is the best feature that you liked on the app?
2. What is the best feature that you'd like to have?
3. In case you have a good English accent, have the ability to record your device, would you like to put your video review?
If so, I will put your video (if it's good enough) on the play store, along with credits (or you put them at the end of the video if you wish).
No ads in the video, please .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well overall, the app is quite streamline and easy to navigate.
And the making of APK to share file is the best feature that I liked.
It would be nice if the app could have the feature to natively share apks of different apps, from within, using wifi direct, if another device has this installed. Would make it even better.
About the review, I have had some experience with them, so i'll give it a shot tomorrow morning, it's 10 pm here at the moment so I can't prepare and edit now.
I like this, for me the most useful part is the sorting by install and updated. Enough that I did the donation thing to get rid of the ads.
Some suggestions:
Tabs or Drawers / Categories with Tags
- The way this would work is that you can tag apps with categories (each app being able to be tagged with as many categories as the user likes). For instance, I may make a category for frequently used and camera. I would tag my several camera apps with the camera tag, and the one I use most I would also tag with the frequently used tag.
- Then, when searching I could search for the tags as well, such as searching frequently used and all those with that tag would come up.
- Going a step further is the creation of preset tag search tabs. So at the top, or side or wherever it fits best, there may be a place for the Camera Tab Search that I would select it and see all my camera apps.
I think the above feature would make organizing and accessing the apps even more awesome.
The next suggestion is moving towards replacing the stock app manager.
- I use XPosed with Gravity Box. I set up the long press of the home button to launch your App Manager.
- I also use the GEL Settings that changes the Home Button into the Apps Button when you are already on your home screen. It would be awesome if you did the same, but instead made it link to your app.
KNIGHT97 said:
Well overall, the app is quite streamline and easy to navigate.
And the making of APK to share file is the best feature that I liked.
It would be nice if the app could have the feature to natively share apks of different apps, from within, using wifi direct, if another device has this installed. Would make it even better.
About the review, I have had some experience with them, so i'll give it a shot tomorrow morning, it's 10 pm here at the moment so I can't prepare and edit now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for sharing your opinion.
About sharing via Wifi-Direct, isn't it already possible in case both devices have an app for sharing stuff over Wifi-Direct?
For example, using "SuperBeam" ? I never tested the app or the feature, but I think it's already possible, no?
Some Roms (and I think it includes some stock Roms) even have this built in, as I remember.
Not sure though, if any of those solutions share APK files, or just media files.
Since I don't have multiple devices, I can't check it out, and I'm not sure if I will be able to develop it in a way without any bugs...
AndroidDeveloperLB said:
Thank you for sharing your opinion.
About sharing via Wifi-Direct, isn't it already possible in case both devices have an app for sharing stuff over Wifi-Direct?
For example, using "SuperBeam" ? I never tested the app or the feature, but I think it's already possible, no?
Some Roms (and I think it includes some stock Roms) even have this built in, as I remember.
Not sure though, if any of those solutions share APK files, or just media files.
Since I don't have multiple devices, I can't check it out, and I'm not sure if I will be able to develop it in a way without any bugs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, many apps have this feature, but I just asked for it because this app already has many different methods of sharing an app, and this could make it even faster and better, due to more streamlined representation of your apps. But if it's hard for you, don't worry, no one's forcing you; you are the Dev, you decide how you app is.
But the functionality is quite great.
maddbomber83 said:
I like this, for me the most useful part is the sorting by install and updated. Enough that I did the donation thing to get rid of the ads.
Some suggestions:
Tabs or Drawers / Categories with Tags
- The way this would work is that you can tag apps with categories (each app being able to be tagged with as many categories as the user likes). For instance, I may make a category for frequently used and camera. I would tag my several camera apps with the camera tag, and the one I use most I would also tag with the frequently used tag.
- Then, when searching I could search for the tags as well, such as searching frequently used and all those with that tag would come up.
- Going a step further is the creation of preset tag search tabs. So at the top, or side or wherever it fits best, there may be a place for the Camera Tab Search that I would select it and see all my camera apps.
I think the above feature would make organizing and accessing the apps even more awesome.
The next suggestion is moving towards replacing the stock app manager.
- I use XPosed with Gravity Box. I set up the long press of the home button to launch your App Manager.
- I also use the GEL Settings that changes the Home Button into the Apps Button when you are already on your home screen. It would be awesome if you did the same, but instead made it link to your app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for sharing your opinion.
About the tagging suggestion:
Do you mean auto-tagging, or letting the user tag them? or maybe scan the play-store and tagging the apps using the category they were in...?
Currently, it's a rather time consuming thing to add this feature of tagging, especially if I will add a server side storage that will hold the tags of all the users.
It's a very good suggestion, though, and I will keep it in mind for future releases.
For now, if you wish to organize apps, there are plenty of launchers out there that do the job by putting the apps shortcuts into folders . Some, like "everything.me" launcher, will do it for you.
About having tabs of tags, I think it's against the guidelines of Google to have too many tabs (think how annoying it will be when you create many tags). Maybe a navigation drawer is better.
BTW, I also use Nova launcher, and I've tried a lot of launchers.
About replacing the stock app manager, that was my goal, but I still need to handle operations that I didn't find how to deal with, such as clearing the default of apps, getting the size of them correctly, toggling notifications on/off,...
I'm familiar with using XPosed, but didn't use Gravity Box module. I'm not sure what this module does (I've read its description now) ...
I didn't understand what you did with GEL settings. Did you make it so that the home button of the navigation buttons changed to anything you wish on certain cases?
KNIGHT97 said:
Yeah, many apps have this feature, but I just asked for it because this app already has many different methods of sharing an app, and this could make it even faster and better, due to more streamlined representation of your apps. But if it's hard for you, don't worry, no one's forcing you; you are the Dev, you decide how you app is.
But the functionality is quite great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My app only uses the apps that are already installed on your device. That's how Android works (using "send" intents in this case).
For example, if you had "WhatsApp" installed, it will be shown on the dialog I've made, and if "WhatsApp" supports sending APK files, it will also work (sadly I think it doesn't, but I'm pretty sure "Telegram" does).
BTW, the dialog I've made isn't the native one just because I wanted to add some features to it and I also didn't like how slow the default one is.
Can you please check if Wifi-direct is possible for this task, before I consider adding this feature? I will also try it out at the office if I get the chance.
AndroidDeveloperLB said:
My app only uses the apps that are already installed on your device. That's how Android works (using "send" intents in this case).
For example, if you had "WhatsApp" installed, it will be shown on the dialog I've made, and if "WhatsApp" supports sending APK files, it will also work (sadly I think it doesn't, but I'm pretty sure "Telegram" does).
BTW, the dialog I've made isn't the native one just because I wanted to add some features to it and I also didn't like how slow the default one is.
Can you please check if Wifi-direct is possible for this task, before I consider adding this feature? I will also try it out at the office if I get the chance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, telegram is the only one which would let you send apk files.
But I am not a dev, so I won't be able to check or add things. I am just a tester for the apps and roms and sometimes co-operate with reviews.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So I found a small bug, in the sharing menu of the app, aside the regular apps, it also displays apps from music streaming services, but only the ones which allow uploading of content, like grooveshark.
KNIGHT97 said:
Yeah, telegram is the only one which would let you send apk files.
But I am not a dev, so I won't be able to check or add things. I am just a tester for the apps and roms and sometimes co-operate with reviews.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About checking it, I didn't mean that you'd develop anything, not even search the internet about it.
I meant installing an app that lets you send files over WIFI-Direct (like the app I've mentioned), open it (not sure, but I think it's needed so that it would be enabled), and then use my app to send the APK via this app.
AndroidDeveloperLB said:
About checking it, I didn't mean that you'd develop anything, not even search the internet about it.
I meant installing an app that lets you send files over WIFI-Direct (like the app I've mentioned), open it (not sure, but I think it's needed so that it would be enabled), and then use my app to send the APK via this app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My bad, got you wrong there.
So I tested with Superbeam(tried other apps too, but just won't show them in share menu) and it works fine. The transfer is carried out normally like choosing a file to be transferred from any other app.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Going to sleep for now. Will test, review and report further tomorrow morning.
KNIGHT97 said:
My bad, got you wrong there.
So I tested with Superbeam(tried other apps too, but just won't show them in share menu) and it works fine. The transfer is carried out normally like choosing a file to be transferred from any other app.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Going to sleep for now. Will test, review and report further tomorrow morning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure I understood :
Did it show up there ?
Did you succeed transferring the APK file using WIFI-Direct?
If so, that's great news. I wonder though how come WIFI-Direct sharing isn't a built in feature on Android.
I think it should be easy as using the Bluetooth.
Also I don't get why Android-Beam uses Bluetooth instead of WIFI-Direct (as done on Samsung's devices). In fact, maybe Google could make the files transfer faster by harnessing both Bluetooth and WIFI-Direct together.
Thanks very handy.... Donated.... And again cause I'm
.. And again
Christiancs1969 said:
Thanks very handy.... Donated.... And again cause I'm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow. Thanks. :good:
You are the first one who is...
Well one more for luck then.....
Seriously... Its very handy thanks

[App][1.1]UU Uninstaller _System Apps Remove and Backup

UU Uninstaller Free
One tap uninstall system apps and restore them (include apps data) in a safe way.
Get UU Uninstaller for FREE https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uusafe.uninstaller
With UU Uninstaller, you can
*Uninstall regular and pre-installed (system) apps.
*Freeze (Disable and hide) apps
*Backup apk files and apps data and restore them anytime.
*Auto-hide private apps after exit or lock screen
Support 2.3 and up
If you are familiar with such stories as below:
□Get a brand new Android which has scores of third-party pre-installed apps?
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□You are a big fan of Android games but don' t feel like getting rid of your favorite-ever games for good and want to restore
them anytime with your progress in every game?
□Get lots of least used but required apps under some circumstances which you don’t want to fully delete?
Then this is where UU Uninstaller comes in.
Brief Description:
UU Uninstaller easily uninstalls/freezes and backs up apps which helps to free up more spaces for your phone and boost memory to speed it up.
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NOTE: This app REQUIRES ROOT permission. Sorry for the inconvenience.
See more, please visit http://www.uusafe.com
If you want to keep your Android device fit, get it on Google Play.
More options for download:
Amazon, 1moible, Softonic, GetJar, SlideME
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
FAQ:
1.What is the difference between Freeze and Uninstall?
Freezing an app is to disable and hide the app.
Go to History> Frozen to defrost them if you want to use them.
Uninstalling an app is to permanently delete apk files and apps data. Go to History>Uninstalled to reinstall them.
2. What is Backup and Restore?
UU can backup selected apk files and apps data including multiple versions of per app and restore them separately. If the app you want to restore has been uninstalled, it will be automatically reinstalled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
More about Freeze feature of UU Uninstaller:
UU allows you to “Freeze” apps which restricts the ability for that app to open. This can be used multiple ways
•Stop it from running
•Stop other people from snooping in those apps
•Stops you (maybe your little sibling or 1 year old kid has your phone) from accidentally clicking the app
and more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's new for v1.1:
1.Added auto-hide apps feature. Private apps will be auto-hidden after exit or lock screen.
2.Added custom backup path feature.
3.Added auto backup of pre-installed apps feature.
4.Optimized apps sorting. Latest installation within 15 days is displayed as priority.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Feel free to leave comment in this thread or reach us via [email protected].
Let us know what you request from our app (i.e. other Uninstaller or Backup’s features). We’ll work hard on the improvements.
If we helped, please like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uusafe
Apologies for that. Didn't mean to jump out and lash out like that. Am enjoying your app. The UI is well made. Kudos!
Firehead said:
Wouldn't a link to your app in the topic be better advertising for it? Instead of just telling people to search it themselves? I don't understand why these people that post apps here don't have the courtesy to link the apps they're talking about. It's counterproductive.
Here's a way for you (and anyone else that posts apps here.):
Add a link, yo. (As in [/ url] link. Not a blasted paste of the url without making it clickable.) You went through all the trouble to write up that crap, put at least two more seconds and link your goddamned app. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
New users are unable to post links. It's a measure to prevent spam.
I've added a link to the OPs post though.
Firehead said:
Wouldn't a link to your app in the topic be better advertising for it? Instead of just telling people to search it themselves? I don't understand why these people that post apps here don't have the courtesy to link the apps they're talking about. It's counterproductive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the inconvenience.New users are unable to put links. We'll do better next time.
Thanks for your feedback!
Thanks for your great support!
conantroutman said:
New users are unable to post links. It's a measure to prevent spam.
I've added a link to the OPs post though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your great support!
Auto-start manager updates are coming! Why not give it a try?
What's new in version 1.1:
1.Added auto-start manager
Auto-start apps can be disabled on details pages
2. Updated details pages
-More app details
-Cache clear
-Data clear
-Open/Stop apps you do(n't)need
uusafe said:
Sorry for the inconvenience.New users are unable to put links. We'll do better next time.
Thanks for your feedback!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have done great with this app and are doing great already by me - the link is clickable to app's Googlyville ... seems ok to me. Besides he who wants can also DL the apk via evozi.
Fantastic uninstaller app. I have tried many but this is the best - simple, straight to business; a recycle bin, like Dumpster for apps? Genius! And free? That's generous!
No trying here, this is a keeper, it's staying put. Thank you! Great job.
jayinc11 said:
You have done great with this app and are doing great already by me - the link is clickable to app's Googlyville ... seems ok to me. Besides he who wants can also DL the apk via evozi.
Fantastic uninstaller app. I have tried many but this is the best - simple, straight to business; a recycle bin, like Dumpster for apps? Genius! And free? That's generous!
No trying here, this is a keeper, it's staying put. Thank you! Great job.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for liking our app. Tip us so we can do better.:laugh:
Seems to work great and I like the look of it. Good work!
Sent from my XT1049 using Tapatalk
Hey can you confirm if this app scrubs and totally removes apps' data? On both device memory and SDcard?
Edit:
Tip coming shortly
jayinc11 said:
Hey can you confirm if this app scrubs and totally removes apps' data? On both device memory and SDcard?
Edit:
Tip coming shortly
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Something tells me it doesn't completely wipe everything. There always seems to be stuff left behind. I haven't tried this yet but I have a feeling that's the case
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
RobertsDF said:
Seems to work great and I like the look of it. Good work!
Sent from my XT1049 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your great support. Tip us so we can improve.
jayinc11 said:
Hey can you confirm if this app scrubs and totally removes apps' data? On both device memory and SDcard?
Edit:
Tip coming shortly
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your feedback.
You app and apps data can be fully cleared after you tap DELETE in Recycle Bin.
For now they will only be cleared on device memory.
But good news is that the update for removes from SD card is soon coming.
Stay tuned with our updates!
ShapesBlue said:
Something tells me it doesn't completely wipe everything. There always seems to be stuff left behind. I haven't tried this yet but I have a feeling that's the case
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the inconvenience that caused.
For now your app and apps data will only be cleared on device memory.
It may not be fully cleared if a folder is created by an app on SD card.
But good news is that the update for removes from SD card is soon coming.
Stay tuned with our updates! Thanks!
uusafe said:
Sorry for the inconvenience that caused.
For now your app and apps data will only be cleared on device memory.
It may not be fully cleared if a folder is created by an app on SD card.
But good news is that the update for removes from SD card is soon coming.
Stay tuned with our updates! Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't apologize. I was just stating my opinion. I haven't at this point used the app
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
uusafe said:
Thanks for your feedback.
You app and apps data can be fully cleared after you tap DELETE in Recycle Bin.
For now they will only be cleared on device memory.
But good news is that the update for removes from SD card is soon coming.
Stay tuned with our updates!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For apps that get installed on SDcard their data folders are normally created on device unless one has implemented a move them to SDcard. So maybe moving the app back to device from SDcard, then uninstalling should achieve the same results?
To make this app even more awesome can you consider these features:-
-an apk manager that will 1-backup apks, & an option to choose a back up location, & 2-directly share apk file via BT, etc.
-a move to SD card-that will either accommodate moving data and/or a choice to include data being moved.
-Move to phone of course
Looking forward to the update.
Looks userfriendly and works good
The new update - startup control - is great!
jayinc11 said:
For apps that get installed on SDcard their data folders are normally created on device unless one has implemented a move them to SDcard. So maybe moving the app back to device from SDcard, then uninstalling should achieve the same results?
To make this app even more awesome can you consider these features:-
-an apk manager that will 1-backup apks, & an option to choose a back up location, & 2-directly share apk file via BT, etc.
-a move to SD card-that will either accommodate moving data and/or a choice to include data being moved.
-Move to phone of course
Looking forward to the update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, thanks for your good tips.
As I know, the location of data folder depends on the download manager you are using or how you set up the storage path.
A single app like App Memory SD Card Transfer may be needed to implement what you said above.
A lot of improvements are scheduled. We’ll include the Transfer function in the future.
FYI, We’ll have a big update for Version1.4!

HELP! Ad's poping up on my android home screen.

Hi I'm not sure if it's my carrier "Assurance Wireless" that's doing this or if I may have done this my self iv'e only installed a few apps the same apps I have on another phone that's not mine testing purpose "Virgin Mobile" but it dose not get full ads pop up on it. My question is their any aps I could use to scan get rid of or block these thank you.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
If you've only got a few apps installed, uninstall all of them and see if the ads go away. If they do, reinstall the apps one at a time, until the ads come back and you'll have the culprit. If they don't go away with no apps installed, you can try a factory reset.
In addition to what Char_G said I would recommend to try anti malware and spyware app to scan the phone maybe likely the app causing this issue would be blacklisted.
It could also be the device. Some oems encludes ads like that when they sale discounted devices.
New behavior
Something new is happening apps are being installed automatically with out me doing anything only happens on wifi but recently have had the apps letgo, Lucktastic, Yahoo Sports, And BOSS revolution installed. I have ran malwarebytes and AVG for android both apps report no viruses or malware detected. I'm going to reset my phone to factory settings and install nothing from the play store and see what happens.
zelendel said:
It could also be the device. Some oems encludes ads like that when they sale discounted devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A friend thought this as well as it's a smartphone that Assurance Wireless gives you through the government program I'm on. Not a known name brand "UMX" as far as I can tell it manufactured by a Chinese company "Teleepoch" I'm not expecting something fancy from this program but this is nuts lol.
Brian7k said:
A friend thought this as well as it's a smartphone that Assurance Wireless gives you through the government program I'm on. Not a known name brand "UMX" as far as I can tell it manufactured by a Chinese company "Teleepoch" I'm not expecting something fancy from this program but this is nuts lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UMX is known to me and I'm betting I am right. It is a common thing mainly for devices like that. The inclusion of ads help off set the price of the device.
You may have a chance but it would depend on unlockable status of the device. If you could unlock the bootloader then by some work you could make a rom that removes it all. But again that depends.
zelendel said:
UMX is known to me and I'm betting I am right. It is a common thing mainly for devices like that. The inclusion of ads help off set the price of the device.
You may have a chance but it would depend on unlockable status of the device. If you could unlock the bootloader then by some work you could make a rom that removes it all. But again that depends.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct reformat to factory settings did not install anything from the play store left my phone on with wifi on and got the same ads and apps on my phone. My question to you is their a firewall app I can download that would block this behavior or is it just something I will live with until I can get a better phone one day.
Brian7k said:
You are correct reformat to factory settings did not install anything from the play store left my phone on with wifi on and got the same ads and apps on my phone. My question to you is their a firewall app I can download that would block this behavior or is it just something I will live with until I can get a better phone one day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can manage to get root then an ad blocker might be able to help. Other then that you would need to flash a custom rom
No root solution found!
I have the same carrier and model of phone. I was getting the same kind of ads. But I also got ads in my notification area. I long pressed the notification to discover the app responsible was the in built gallery app (I had been curious of it's abnormally high data usage already). I disabled it and replaced it with an ad free gallery app from the play store and I haven't been assaulted with an advertisement since, 3-4 days ago. I actually created an account here for the explicit purpose of sharing this information because this was one of the top results in my search for answers and definitely the most helpful result. I hope it can help someone else.
Easy
I've had this before. It's basically an app. Except it's white and without a name so it's harder to find. Install a 3rd party installed apps list and you should find something white. Press on it and Uninstall it. Boom. Problem solved.
Unless if you're rooted, this may be a virus hidden deep in the system (not very commonly)
Not sure it could help, but have you tried installing a system-wide adblock app such as AdBlock from NoMobileAds? Here: https://nomobileads.com/
I have an app called "hidden apps." This is what i used to find a hidden app that kept throwing ads all over my phone and i was able to delete it
Goto your installed apps list, and check for all the app names. Malwares such as these have no names listed, so you should ideally be seeing a blank space in one of the apps, if you do see such an app, just uninstall it, and you should be good to go.
If you find no such app, then search for an app which has a peculiar name that you suspect.
I have had this same thing happen to me. I gave an app superuser access by mistake, and it kept doing this. I went to the app list, and found an app with no name listed. I uninstalled it, and everything went back to normal. Hope this helps.
For any reason, if you do not find a solution to this, flashing a new ROM will take care of this issue as all app data would be deleted. But this shouldn't be needed at all. Hope this helps. :good:
Just moved from T-Mobile Samsung Note 5 to Note 8. Only have a small number of my old programs moved over by SmartSwitch. Now, however, no matter what app I try to click on, about half the time I'm first presented with one or more pages of ads. I have to kill the app and restart it to get to it. This is being managed by something called appnews, which uses every facet of the phone, from monitoring contacts & email to embedding 1x1 transparent blocks on app screens, checking GPS and cell tower metadata to embedding itself in other apps (some apps even embed it intentionally for a payment) to gather info about me. Last night, my phone was charging and in hibernate mode when it woke up and gave me a strange ring at 3:00 AM. I picked up the phone and before I could even unlock it, a screen full of ads appeared.
My Note 5 was rooted, but I just got word that SafeSwitch is now available for the Note 8 (T-Mobile began locking bootloaders with the Galaxy S7, damn their hearts - friendly rooting was a major reason I switched from Verizon to T-Mobile). Will rooting give me access to appnews or do I have to root and load a custom kernel? EU members can opt out of appnews (there's a link in their EULA), but in no-privacy US, they don't offer the option.
ObamaPhoneMalware said:
I'm posting as a guest so I can get this out on the searchable web ASAP. I'll create a real account if anybody out there wants more info.
I found this thread by Googling "assurance wireless malware" BTW. I can confirm that this is also happening to me (across 4 devices) since October 2017.
This could potentially be a HUGE scandal - the Lifeline program serves some of the most vulnerable people, it's a multi-BILLION dollar yearly govt program, & the FCC chairman is already wanting to make cuts due to "waste, fraud, & abuse."
Plus the security implications of a botnet of compromised devices.
Plus the photos of Branson (Virgin CEO) palling around w/Obama (former US president ) whilst his company makes millions distributing malware-laden "ObamaPhones" & refusing to take responsibility.
I have hundreds of screenshots to prove the reality & the evolving symptoms of this malware. There's also a thread on the Virgin Mobile site where a mod confirms the Gallery app theory, but it's multiple programs also, in my experience. But no Assurance or Virgin phone rep will admit anything.
Anybody wanna help break a potentially huge story with me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree I'm pretty good at figuring out things like this and I have disabled and deleted what I believe were the apps/rouge apps doing this. It worked for a month or two and their back but I can't find them so they must be hidden within the rom or someplace I have no root access. I'm with you in believing this is manufactured malware and it's a shame they can get away with this.
Yes... this absolutely is malware that is built into a custom ROM
The phones are being shipped with a bad custom ROM that contains malware or adware there is no way to completely stop it. Especially when it comes to the pop up full screen ads. Also note that the security software in Android is not being updated properly, because the custom ROM has a fake updater app that doesn't get you any real updates.
The malware is built into the custom ROM that someone has flash to these phones. People are complaining that this happens to them with replacement phones that they get from Assurance Wireless not the original phone that they got in the first place.
There is no way to restore the original ROM because there are no copies of it online. So phones that have this problem are completely useless as they may also have some kind of spyware, keylogger or screenshot program that is recording what you do. I would stop using this phone altogether if I were you.
I just bought mine from eBay and I'm going to contact the seller to request a refund and I will send screenshots of the problem and pages from the forums that I have visited that talk about this problem as proof that this is a bad device.
Remember that the updater app is fake it is not the real one that is built into Android to check for updates and it is only getting 4 out of 60 updates available which means that the security in the phone is completely compromised so that the malware cannot be automatically disabled or deleted by the security updates.

Scoped storage is good...but RESTRICTED Storage is better

Scoped storage introduced in Android 11 is good, but RESTRICTED Storage would be an even better option.
On Android, at the moment, apps that have access to internal storage for their own files, also have access to every other file in the system. This is not only a privacy risk, but also a security concern. With the introduction of Scoped Storage, some of that is being addressed. Yet, there is still scope for misuse if apps have malicious intent.
I would like to have a system where every app that needs access to a file must go through the built in file manager to prevent misuse. What that means is no app has permanent access to files that are not created by them, and can only access files each time with explicit user consent and interaction. This would completely address the privacy concerns with regards to files.
This is how the Files app in iOS is designed and is an extremely well thought out one. Let me illustrate with an example:
We all know how Facebook is notorious when it comes to privacy. Let's assume you have a Facebook account and the Facebook app is installed on your phone. If you want to share a picture on Facebook, you have to grant the app access to your internal storage. On Android, this effectively grants Facebook access to every file on your storage. Given the reputation, it won't be surprising if Facebook app scans all your pictures/ videos for its AI/ ML, or even uploads them without your knowledge.
On iOS, the permission screen looks like this:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
You have the choice of either granting permanent access (Option 1), or limit the access to just the file(s) you want (Option 2). This permission can be set per app.
On Android, it is essentially Option 1 alone. You have to grant access to the entire file system for you to be able to upload your pics to Facebook.
On iOS, you have the choice of uploading just the pic you want, without giving the app access to any other file in your internal storage. This is a huge privacy boon.
In this case, Facebook app has to make a request to the built in file manager (which obviously has access to every file in the system), and you browse your media library using the built-in file manager (with which the built-in Photos app is integrated) to grant access. Facebook app sees absolutely nothing. It only makes a query, and everything else is handled by the built-in file manager. So even without granting blanket access, you are able to upload the file you want!
Same holds true for every app. An app should only have permanent access to its own files, and not any other file. For access to any other file, the app has to go through the built-in file manager route and access only the file that the user wants it to see.
Alternatively, ALL folders will be 'Restricted' by default. However, users will have the option to selectively relax the restrictions (per folder) for one or more apps (under folder properties) to give just those apps full access.
Hope Google (and custom ROM makers) can design something like this keeping in mind the privacy needs of its users, and the abusive intents of large corporations and malicious actors.
Here is an app that achieves the objective defined above:
Storage Isolation

			
				
Load trusted, vetted apps only; you are what you load. Don't allow apps to update; they may pass Playstore security only to update latter installing their payload. Firewall block all apps that don't need an internet to do their job. Most don't need access once activated.
Never load social media or shopping apps on the device, they are malware and an ongoing high security risk. If the social media site can't be fully logged onto and accessed by browser, ditch it.
Nothing can protect you from yourself, actions have consequences.
blackhawk said:
Load trusted, vetted apps only; you are what you load. Don't allow apps to update; they may pass Playstore security only to update latter installing their payload. Firewall block all apps that don't need an internet to do their job. Most don't need access once activated.
Never load social media or shopping apps on the device, they are malware and an ongoing high security risk. If the social media site can't be fully logged onto and accessed by browser, ditch it.
Nothing can protect you from yourself, actions have consequences.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The implementation suggested above would address privacy concerns related to user files and I'm not sure why Google hasn't yet done so.
Buying a smartphone and limiting it's usability severely as you say isn't practical.
TheMystic said:
The implementation suggested above would address privacy concerns related to user files and I'm not sure why Google hasn't yet done so.
Buying a smartphone and limiting it's usability severely as you say isn't practical.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why has Google or Samsung not integrated a native firewall to Android? I use Karma Firewall, it uses almost no battery. Unfortunately it's valuable logging feature doesn't work on Android 10 and higher. Works fine with Pie though. I have apps like the 6yo free version of WPS office that wouldn't load on 11, pleasantly surprised it loaded on 10. It has no drop in replacement today that's not cloud or free. I simply firewall block it so it doesn't want to update to the current paid version. Doesn't effect usability.
What Google did with scoped storage kills a lot of useful and trusted apps while giving a false sense of security. Hackers never sleep and will always find workarounds to get your data.
Google is one of the worst data miners and purveyors of disinformation, trust them?
blackhawk said:
Why has Google or Samsung not integrated a native firewall to Android? I use Karma Firewall, it uses almost no battery. Unfortunately it's valuable logging feature doesn't work on Android 10 and higher. Works fine with Pie though. I have apps like the 6yo free version of WPS office that wouldn't load on 11, pleasantly surprised it loaded on 10. It has no drop in replacement today that's not cloud or free. I simply firewall block it so it doesn't want to update to the current paid version. Doesn't effect usability.
What Google did with scoped storage kills a lot of useful and trusted apps while giving a false sense of security. Hackers never sleep and will always find workarounds to get your data.
Google is one of the worst data miners and purveyors of disinformation, trust them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I prefer Oxygen OS, Colour OS and MiUI, all of which offer a native firewall within their OS. Since OOS 12, Oxygen OS is now showing a popup everytime a blocked app is launched. This is extremely annoying.
Karma Firewall appears to be an abandoned project with no update. It isn't working properly on Android 12 and newer. Netguard is currently the best.
Giving the user ability to setup which folders/ files each app can access would greatly enhance privacy. Scoped Storage is a half baked implementation, even though something is better than nothing. The implementation suggested above will address many of the current shortcomings.
Nothing is foolproof or failsafe. But bringing in improvements is always welcome.
Google may be the biggest data miner, but unfortunately their apps and services do not have competing alternatives. Users have to make lots of compromises when choosing alternatives.
The other reason I prefer Google/ Microsoft apps is because they help me be platform independent, since their apps are also available on iOS, Windows and Mac.
Mind sharing that cloud free version of WPS?
TheMystic said:
This is why I prefer Oxygen OS, Colour OS and MiUI, all of which offer a native firewall within their OS. Since OOS 12, Oxygen OS is now showing a popup everytime a blocked app is launched. This is extremely annoying.
Karma Firewall appears to be an abandoned project with no update. It isn't working properly on Android 12 and newer. Netguard is currently the best.
Giving the user ability to setup which folders/ files each app can access would greatly enhance privacy. Scoped Storage is a half baked implementation, even though something is better than nothing. The implementation suggested above will address many of the current shortcomings.
Nothing is foolproof or failsafe. But bringing in improvements is always welcome.
Google may be the biggest data miner, but unfortunately their apps and services do not have competing alternatives. Users have to make lots of compromises when choosing alternatives.
The other reason I prefer Google/ Microsoft apps is because they help me be platform independent, since their apps are also available on iOS, Windows and Mac.
Mind sharing that cloud free version of WPS?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Developers come and go. Karma Firewall is great app. After what Google did with scoped stoirage I don't blame them for bailing.
I have nothing against added security per se but it should be an option if it causes loss of functionality or uses resources. Knox is another one I hate. Gmail is the only Google app I regularly use. All my apps are backed up as installable copies on the data drive so no Playstore needed to reload. Completely self contained and self sufficient.
Make sure you firewall block it. It may not load on 11 or higher. To save docs you may have to play with it a bit but it will create, modify and save Word (doc x too) documents. More versions are found on APKmirror. About 81.37mb installed.
blackhawk said:
Developers come and go. Karma Firewall is great app. After what Google did with scoped stoirage I don't blame them for bailing.
I have nothing against added security per se but it should be an option if it causes loss of functionality or uses resources. Knox is another one I hate. Gmail is the only Google app I regularly use. All my apps are backed up as installable copies on the data drive so no Playstore needed to reload. Completely self contained and self sufficient.
Make sure you firewall block it. It may not load on 11 or higher. To save docs you may have to play with it a bit but it will create, modify and save Word (doc x too) documents. More versions are found on APKmirror. About 81.37mb installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was using Karma, until it stopped working reliably. So went back to Netguard which is really good, and with some very useful feature not available in Karma.
Where do you install new apps from? APK backups help in going back to an older version. But for newer versions, you need Google Play Store, unless you are happy with apkmirror or similar.
I have a MS 365 subscription, so this is just a backup of a clean version of WPS, whose newer version destroys all context menus by showing up everywhere. I wish Android provided a way to customise context menus as well as share menus.
Thanks for the apk though.
TheMystic said:
I was using Karma, until it stopped working reliably. So went back to Netguard which is really good, and with some very useful feature not available in Karma.
Where do you install new apps from? APK backups help in going back to an older version. But for newer versions, you need Google Play Store, unless you are happy with apkmirror or similar.
I have a MS 365 subscription, so this is just a backup of a clean version of WPS, whose newer version destroys all context menus by showing up everywhere. I wish Android provided a way to customise context menus as well as share menus.
Thanks for the apk though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's one reason this N10+ is still running on Pie. I've been wanting to try out netguard.
Rarely from Playstore. I try not to same apps as they can potentially damage the system or worse. Some of my copies date back 6 years, most 2-3, many over the years from Playstore. They run well. Playstore also uses battery, every bit counts.
I do a few side loads that are always scanned with online Virustotal. If they look even a little iffy I don't install them. I use F-Droid too. No issues with the side loaded apps, yet...
You're welcome. I get tired of renting apps and a capable office app is absolutely essential.
blackhawk said:
That's one reason this N10+ is still running on Pie. I've been wanting to try out netguard.
Rarely from Playstore. I try not to same apps as they can potentially damage the system or worse. Some of my copies date back 6 years, most 2-3, many over the years from Playstore. They run well. Playstore also uses battery, every bit counts.
I do a few side loads that are always scanned with online Virustotal. If they look even a little iffy I don't install them. I use F-Droid too. No issues with the side loaded apps, yet...
You're welcome. I get tired of renting apps and a capable office app is absolutely essential.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Netguard is very good, actually much better than Karma (it will reactivate itself if the OS kills it, automatically blocks new apps, etc). The one very good thing about Karma is that it has no internet permissions. But Netguard says it doesn't collect any data or track anything.
Personally, i prefer to have the latest versions of both OS and apps, so I'm surprised that you are not updating the OS just to use an app, especially when a better alternative is already available.
I too have sideloaded a few apps (after checking them on VirusTotal), but i stick with Google Play Store mostly. It is rare that an update breaks something or takes away a useful feature, so this works for me. Besides, i do keep a backup of the important APKs with me, should it be required.
TheMystic said:
Netguard is very good, actually much better than Karma (it will reactivate itself if the OS kills it, automatically blocks new apps, etc). The one very good thing about Karma is that it has no internet permissions. But Netguard says it doesn't collect any data or track anything.
Personally, i prefer to have the latest versions of both OS and apps, so I'm surprised that you are not updating the OS just to use an app, especially when a better alternative is already available.
I too have sideloaded a few apps (after checking them on VirusTotal), but i stick with Google Play Store mostly. It is rare that an update breaks something or takes away a useful feature, so this works for me. Besides, i do keep a backup of the important APKs with me, should it be required.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rule #1 - if an OS is fast, stable and fulfilling its mission, let it be!
Upgrades/updates can and do break things. It's mostly all play time with this old load. No surprises, it just runs. I spent a lot of time optimizing it and changing the firmware or updating apps changes my manicured playing field into a sinkhole of trouble.
Android 11, 12, and 13 bring nothing I want to the table and are trying to steal the silverware. Google seeks to stay relevant like the lame big sister it is. Their improvements don't make my device run better or even any more secure but they do waste my time. Plus I don't like the way it looks. It's the smell.
TheMystic said:
Scoped storage introduced in Android 11 is good, but RESTRICTED Storage would be an even better option.
On Android, at the moment, apps that have access to internal storage for their own files, also have access to every other file in the system. This is not only a privacy risk, but also a security concern. With the introduction of Scoped Storage, some of that is being addressed. Yet, there is still scope for misuse if apps have malicious intent.
I would like to have a system where every app that needs access to a file must go through the built in file manager to prevent misuse. What that means is no app has permanent access to files that are not created by them, and can only access files each time with explicit user consent and interaction. This would completely address the privacy concerns with regards to files.
This is how the Files app in iOS is designed and is an extremely well thought out one. Let me illustrate with an example:
We all know how Facebook is notorious when it comes to privacy. Let's assume you have a Facebook account and the Facebook app is installed on your phone. If you want to share a picture on Facebook, you have to grant the app access to your internal storage. On Android, this effectively grants Facebook access to every file on your storage. Given the reputation, it won't be surprising if Facebook app scans all your pictures/ videos for its AI/ ML, or even uploads them without your knowledge.
On iOS, the permission screen looks like this:
View attachment 5183183
You have the choice of either granting permanent access (Option 1), or limit the access to just the file(s) you want (Option 2). This permission can be set per app.
On Android, it is essentially Option 1 alone. You have to grant access to the entire file system for you to be able to upload your pics to Facebook.
On iOS, you have the choice of uploading just the pic you want, without giving the app access to any other file in your internal storage. This is a huge privacy boon.
In this case, Facebook app has to make a request to the built in file manager (which obviously has access to every file in the system), and you browse your media library using the built-in file manager (with which the built-in Photos app is integrated) to grant access. Facebook app sees absolutely nothing. It only makes a query, and everything else is handled by the built-in file manager. So even without granting blanket access, you are able to upload the file you want!
Same holds true for every app. An app should only have permanent access to its own files, and not any other file. For access to any other file, the app has to go through the built-in file manager route and access only the file that the user wants it to see.
Alternatively, ALL folders will be 'Restricted' by default. However, users will have the option to selectively relax the restrictions (per folder) for one or more apps (under folder properties) to give just those apps full access.
Hope Google (and custom ROM makers) can design something like this keeping in mind the privacy needs of its users, and the abusive intents of large corporations and malicious actors.
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So lol
blackhawk said:
Rule #1 - if an OS is fast, stable and fulfilling its mission, let it be!
Upgrades/updates can and do break things. It's mostly all play time with this old load. No surprises, it just runs. I spent a lot of time optimizing it and changing the firmware or updating apps changes my manicured playing field into a sinkhole of trouble.
Android 11, 12, and 13 bring nothing I want to the table and are trying to steal the silverware. Google seeks to stay relevant like the lame big sister it is. Their improvements don't make my device run better or even any more secure but they do waste my time. Plus I don't like the way it looks. It's the smell.
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Updates also bring in security improvements, along with the excitement of new and improved features. I always install them when available, with very rare exceptions.
Ideally, they shouldn't require users to make any changes to their setup, and that has also largely been my personal experience.
TheMystic said:
Updates also bring in security improvements, along with the excitement of new and improved features. I always install them when available, with very rare exceptions.
Ideally, they shouldn't require users to make any changes to their setup, and that has also largely been my personal experience.
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Unfortunately that is more marketing hype than fact. One reason I run this N10+ on Pie with no updates is to test that statement. This 3yo device and firmware is a cleaner running and a more capable device than the S22U. How can that be? Poor design from both Samsung and Google Android.
I use to always buy new cars, but I learned better and the folly of my ways 25 years ago as new car quality steadily declined. Now Android is reminding me of that bs. For over a $1G it better out perform my N10+ in every especially with SOT and storage. It should be lighter and slimmer. Yes, well...
blackhawk said:
Unfortunately that is more marketing hype than fact. One reason I run this N10+ on Pie with no updates is to test that statement. This 3yo device and firmware is a cleaner running and a more capable device than the S22U. How can that be? Poor design from both Samsung and Google Android.
I use to always buy new cars, but I learned better and the folly of my ways 25 years ago as new car quality steadily declined. Now Android is reminding me of that bs. For over a $1G it better out perform my N10+ in every especially with SOT and storage. It should be lighter and slimmer. Yes, well...
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Click to collapse
There are definitive improvements in hardware: CPU, GPU, RAM, Storage, etc. And most importantly the Cameras. The cameras on the S22U are really very good.
I don't have too many complaints with this device, except for the recent battery drain which I hope to solve.
I don't agree with your used car statement, unless you buy one from someone you know has taken care of it very well. Newer cars are definitely more safe than the old cars, both in terms of material used and in terms of safety features. Lighter alloys can be stronger and safer than heavier metals, so don't go by how strong a material feels.
But it is also true that companies are increasingly designing products that would fail within a certain time period, and this applies to gadgets, consumer durables, components used, etc.
It comes down to your experience over the useful life of the product that the company designs them for. And this is the area where newer products usually excel.
TheMystic said:
There are definitive improvements in hardware: CPU, GPU, RAM, Storage, etc. And most importantly the Cameras. The cameras on the S22U are really very good.
I don't have too many complaints with this device, except for the recent battery drain which I hope to solve.
I don't agree with your used car statement, unless you buy one from someone you know has taken care of it very well. Newer cars are definitely more safe than the old cars, both in terms of material used and in terms of safety features. Lighter alloys can be stronger and safer than heavier metals, so don't go by how strong a material feels.
But it is also true that companies are increasingly designing products that would fail within a certain time period, and this applies to gadgets, consumer durables, components used, etc.
It comes down to your experience over the useful life of the product that the company designs them for. And this is the area where newer products usually excel.
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The SOC is faster, has better bandwidth and is more capable as is the ram, but is only marginally faster by milliseconds for most tasks.
The battery is huge but it gets significantly less SOT
The display can run brighter, but because of variable refresh rate it lacks the color/gamma accuracy/calibration of the N10+. It's pixels will suffer if used at higher brightness levels, they aren't immune to that.
No expandable storage means no 1tb dual (data) drive and no onboard redundancy. 5G isn't as useful as it was hyped up to be in practice and is less efficient for many tasks. It's still power hungry even today.
Its all about balance, functionality and form factor, something Samsung has forgotten how to do. They are completely hype driven now and their insanity is showing. The components look like great but the result doesn't equal the sum of the parts. It even doesn't exceed the N10+/Pie is some important specs.
The N10+ running on Pie is snappy fast, get great SOT/screen off times, has maybe the best display there is in terms of color accuracy etc, more storage that doesn't get wiped in a crash or factory reset. It's a powerful but well balanced device that's a reliable joy to use and weighs 30gms less. The N10+ is also cool running, I can use it for web browsing at 98F ambient for hours with no cooling without it overheating. Upper operating range is 102F ambient at which point I either cool it or stop using it.
Steel is still the best crash material for absorbing massive amounts of impact energy and maintaining it's integrity. I take a 89 Volvo 240 wagon in a crash of any type vs a newer car.
Even has no damage 5 mph impact no damage bumpers. Rock solid, reliable, easy to work on and gets at least 20 mpg no matter how you drive it. Best of all they're easy and fun to drive.
Or
A 89 F-250 Super Suspension 4×2 with a International naturally aspirated diesel with a C6. Fast off the line, minimum 20 mpg.
TheMystic said:
I would like to have a system where every app that needs access to a file must go through the built in file manager to prevent misuse. What that means is no app has permanent access to files that are not created by them, and can only access files each time with explicit user consent and interaction. This would completely address the privacy concerns with regards to files.
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Glad to note that this is finally coming on Android 14.
I had made a post on this in Oct'20, and it is almost 2.5 years since then. Better late than never.

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