I don't see why that is amazing. Essential has a single device running as close to stock android as you can get.

https://www.gsmarena.com/results.php3?nYearMin=2017&sMakers=9

Samsung has a heavily customised version of android and has released 24 devices in 2018, and another 27 in 2017 when the PH1 was released

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.essential.klik&hl=en_US

WHAT'S NEW

• You can once again save, adjust, and share your 360 videos as Tiny Planets!

• Thanks to the wonders of technology, your Burst mode shots now save as a single group.

• Shoot lots of different kinds of content? New icons make it easy to find your Slow-Mo, 360, and regular videos, as well as Burst mode shots, at a glance in your Camera Roll.

• What's that thing you don't see? It's a bird. It's a plane. It's various stability fixes!

The default launcher is nice and all, but lacks any customisability. I don't want much, just one or two extra thing, simple things like hide app from the app drawer, maybe a forced dark theme (however this may come with the actual P release), maybe a basic icon pack support, swipe down for notifications, and that's about it. If this would happen, I would have zero reason to use any third party launcher.

Is there any chance that the default launcher of Essential will have stuff like this added?

ps: If you hire me, I'm willing to port my launcher, Lean Launcher to the Essential. :D

The Essential Phone charger is just a normal, USB-PD 27W charger. Since USB-PD is an open and free standard, there are a LOT of functionally equivalent alternatives on Amazon. Of course, some might take shortcuts and not fully follow the spec, but any well made, USB-IF certified charger is going to be equivalent to the Essential Phone charger.

​

On the other hand, your Samsung charger used Qualcomm Quick Charge, which is a proprietary fast charging method that only works with Qualcomm Quick Charge certified devices and will fall back to slower charging otherwise.

​

This is going to be the closest alternative to the Essential Phone charger. It actually uses the newest GaN technology so it's a little bit smaller and puts out a little bit more power. Obviously not the cheapest, but this is the latest in consumer charging tech: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07DFGKFM3/

> SMS/Texting: Textra > Can't beat it. By far the fastest and most reliable app for SMS as of now. Depending on how the new Google Messages update performs, I might switch to that. But for now, Textra is great. > > https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.textra&hl=en

I would also add Whatsapp and Signal if you want end-to-end encrypted messaging (Signal requires both users to have it to be secure - but also works well as regular SMS)

Sorry I messed up the original post and for some reason the Play Store link didn't come through correctly. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.essential.klik&hl=en

The description merely said "Various Stability Fixes".

Also I noticed in the description it was apparently released yesterday, but my phone only picked up the update today.

https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/paphonb/rootless-pixel-2-launcher-mod/rootless-pixel-2-launcher-mod-8-1-0-4348501-modded-3-0-1-release/rootless-pixel-2-launcher-mod-8-1-0-4348501-modded-3-0-1-android-apk-download/

I bought a bunch of cables off Amazon. I think they did a pretty big purge a few years back to get completely low quality cables off the site. That being said, there are still some cables that'll only do power reliably and data in a patchy way.

I bought these two:

USB Type C Cable, Snowkids USB C Cable (USB 3.0)(2-PACK 6.6ft) Nylon Braided Fast Charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5KL10L?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

USB Type C Cable,SUNGUY [4-Pack] 0.5M/1M/2M/3M Right Angle Type C Cable (USB 2.0) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MY4OIWF?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

The first had been working very reliably. The clips they came with to secure them when rolled suck, so I replaced them with Velcro.

The second I bought because I needed right angle cables to use in my car with Android auto, which requires a very consistent data connection. The first cable I tried keeps disconnecting, but the second has been going strong for a couple of months now.

It's pretty weird that your OnePlus cable didn't work, but who knows.

Pretty happy with Nine for the last few years.

• You can set any folder to sync automatically, including Sent and Trash
• You can set a maximum message download size, in ranges from headers-only to All
• Syncs calendar and contacts
• Appears to support server-based search, so you can search folders you haven't synced. You can check a "Local" box to search synced folders.

Attachments are not auto-downloded for me, but I'm not sure if that is a quirk of attachments, or a limit due to my configured message download size.

There's an app called Custom Navigation Bar, but it requires an adb command to grant it the permission it needs. If you have a PC and the tools set up it's worth a shot

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xyz.paphonb.systemuituner

Looks like the deals still alive: https://slickdeals.net/f/10772655-sprint-essential-phone-5-m-with-flex-lease#commentsBox

If you haven't closed on the house yet I'd probably avoid it if i were you since it requires a hard pull on your credit.

I swear by Skinami skins - 1/5th the cost of Zagg and free warranty replacement everytime - including FREE shipping! At first, I had a glass screen protector on my essential phone but as others have reported - BAD CHOICE! The edges do not stick and you get a nasty outline all around the perimeter of the screen. I ordered my Skinami screen protector on Amazon and it was at my house a couple days later - unfortunately, its not a prime item yet.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074TZHQHS

Use a file explorer, I recommend this one:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.asus.filemanager

Once you have both gcam and the file explorer Installed, go to the file explorer and select internal storage, then make a new folder and title it "Gcam" (without the quotation marks). After that, make another folder inside that one and name it "Configs" (again without the quotation marks). Copy and paste the config file into the config folder. In gcam double tap on the black area near the switch camera button. Then the config should show in the menu.

It was from an app call XianYu (an Alibaba product), which is kinda like a Swappa, where peopel buy and sell used goods. It's on Play Store but they don't seem to have an English version which sucks, they should.

What temperature is being read by this app? Are these CPU temps? I am not familiar with phone temp diagnostics and their normal values, but I am with PC temps.

It seems to be CPU temp from other apps I've tried? That can't possibly be a concerning level. I imagine it would be safe to run constantly well into the 130°F+ range, no?

Anyways I tested mine to compare to your levels. At 100% brightness, and using the stock wall charger I hover around 88°F CPU temp with an ambient room temp of ~74°F. This is with no other active apps and stock ROM/Kernal.

With AnTuTu Benchmark stress test running I stay around 105°F CPU and 100°F battery temps using Cpu Monitor to view the temps.

You'll want something that is capable of producing the quality your hardware is capable of.

Apps like this bypass the Android audio system for better quality for example. Tidal and others deliver very good quality too when the software supports it properly. MQA is a good indication that it does.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ivianuu.hidenavbar

Just give it permission and you're good to go

Edit: I added some personal touches as well on OnePlus Gestures. Activation Area Height to 40, Horizontal Swipe Distance to 450, Hold Time to 400. Change whatever works for you. But this works for me.

As soon as I upgraded to 8.1, I saw something I hated: the shade on the lock screen and notification was a sickly pale green, drawn from the colors of a photo I took of an egret in the Florida everglades (previous phone). That had to go. LWP+ is a not-very-live live wallpaper, but it is capable of setting the colors used by the Wallpaper API to determine the shade color. Setting these to black gives me the old-fashioned grey shade, much more pleasant.

(Disclaimer: No relationship to the developer of this free app) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lb.lwp_plus&rdid=com.lb.lwp_plus

Android is designed to fill RAM. When you close something, it's replaced with something else. It just might not show up in the Recents view. Every time a new app or service is loaded into RAM, it uses power to load and it might take some time to put the phone back to sleep afterwards.

Constantly closing apps = a cycle or closing, OS opening more, you closing, OS opening more, etc.

It's OK to close an app if it's misbehaving for obvious reasons. This is when you should care about this function. Clearing anything from Recents should be more motivated by "I don't plan to jump to that for a while anyway" with a multitasking mindset. It would be more relevant if it's "in the way" of jumping to another recently opened app to swipe it away than to swipe it away just because.

However, if you absolutely must use an app, I have enjoyed Recently by Chainfire (the guy behind SuperSU before he sold it). It requires root, but gives you more control over how the Recents view functions.

https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/sounds/sounds-2-0-223598125-release/

Download here and enable storage in app settings. Then when you go to sounds under settings it will give you the option to open the app. It works great!

Maybe the Pixel Live Wallpapers? I think they look phenomenal on the Essential Phone! Link if interested: https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/pranav-pandey/pixel-wallpapers-2017-port/pixel-wallpapers-2017-port-8-0-0-pp-6-0-arm64-release/pixel-wallpapers-2017-port-8-0-0-pp-6-0-arm64-android-apk-download/

They are discussing one over on XDA apparently still has some issues but fits the entire screen

XDA Thread

Screen protector (Amazon)

I'm very happy with this unit.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075WSC1J9/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The large oval-shaped top portion that's actually exposed when plugged in is aluminium, with a bright polished chamfer, looks and feels great, matches my car's interior trim too.

Was concerned about the hard-wired type-C plug at first, but it's actually handy as it leaves more room for the 2.4a port, and is less bulky than a C-to-C connection would be. Strain relief on the cord is quite good, so you can angle it with no worries.

There's also a deal on Amazon for it right now, buy one, get one 50% off.

A bit expensive for what it is...

Trying to see if it's on Amazon yet, I found this generic case for half the price but doesn't look quite as nice.

I purchased this at Amazon, $7.99 shipped. It comes from London, so it took a couple of weeks to receive but looks and works great. Link for those interested. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07846KMMJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i7pyAb1SAN1KM

also to note, there is a Halo Gray phone for pre order with Feb 21st release date, for 449$. https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Factory-Unlocked-Phone-Warranty/dp/B078SQ7GWK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1518801369&sr=8-10&keywords=Essential+Products

Edit- Looks like its a new color, with amazon only. Bit different then the new gray ver coming out, but cheaper non the less

FYI - Essential has been putting their accessories on Amazon not sure if this is available where you live. It says out of stock but it doesn't take long for them to restock them. I have heard the Google adapter is pretty reliable also.

Probably the best USB-C charger on the market is the Nintendo Switch AC adapter. I got an extra one from Amazon this week for ~26 CAD.

It's kind of large though but it's a beast and guaranteed high quality and completely standards compliant which is more than I can say for the chinese brand stuff.

https://www.amazon.com/Nintendo-Switch-AC-Adapter/dp/B01N7RUZ49/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1532460978&sr=8-4&keywords=nintendo+switch+ac+adapter

I installed an app called rounded corner: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thsoft.rounded.corner

My settings are size 40 and rounded over nav and status bars. I hid the nav bar and use the Fluid Gestures app but I'll see what I like once I update to Android Q.

I'm using Fluid NG. Seems to cover some of the use cases.

Another thing you might want to consider is Fingerprint Swipes. I installed it and now I don't have to change the way I hold the phone to switch between apps or go back.

LessPhone

SMS Backup and Restore. You Don't need root.

This application will move your SMS and call logs.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.riteshsahu.SMSBackupRestore

​

All apps if you have Google Sync enabled.

If you install the app from apkmirror, Chris Lacy (maker of Action Launcher) has a Pixel Shortcuts app that can drop an icon for Digital Wellbeing in your app drawer.

Edit: doesn't require root or magisk either

Hide Status Bar adb shell wm overscan 0,-160,0,0

Hide Nav Bar  adb shell wm overscan 0,0,0,-150

Hide Nav and Status bar adb shell wm overscan 0,-160,0,-150

Go back to default setting adb shell wm overscan 0,0,0,0

For navigation I am using https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.skillist.gesturebar

Power Delivery is always being used. The spec allows for lower and higher rates. Android will let you know if the rate is "slowly" or "rapidly" charging in the lock screen, or will just day "charging" if the phone hasn't negotiated with the power supply yet.

You can also use Ampere to monitor your charge rates. I only use the stock charger so I haven't had a reason to use it on my PH-1, but I can vouch for it from extensive experience with my microUSB phones.

I'd recommend you open the app while using the stock charger and let it sit in the foreground for a minute to settle. Take note of the voltage and current. You can compare those values to other cables/charger you come across. Note that your phone will charge the fastest when it's low battery and will charge slowly when it's nearly full. Don't be fooled into thinking a cable or charger are slow just because you're at 95% battery and your reference rate was taken when your phone was nearly dead.

I've been looking for good programs lately as well. Mainly for trying to make Tiny Planet style photos. Here the the two best ones I have found so far.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thetaplus

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.softindy.littleplanet

I'm looking for more/better ones if anyone has any other suggestions.

Although it has a lot of added texture and is not nearly as minimalist looking as the Arch S design, the TUDIA Tamm is a matte TPU case for the Essential Phone : https://www.amazon.com/Essential-TUDIA-Carbon-Lightweight-Absorption/dp/B0762F2T19

At this point we don't have any plans to make Arch S for the Essential Phone, but if there was enough interest... who knows!

Hmm. Not really too sure then. Might just have to downgrade the app and see if that helps. Check here and grab the version before latest. Hope that helps, gave you an upvote to try and get you some traction.

https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/android-wear-smartwatch-android-wear/android-wear-smartwatch-android-wear-2-24-0-248902549-release/

full screen mode

The only problem is the essential subreddit is hidden under the notch so you can't see what sub you are current on. I'm hoping the next Android with notch support will allow Devs to have some of the information under the notch moved to the side of it or something?

Not really a huge issue I like the full screen mode. Btw recently discovered Joey and it's amazing full switched to it now :)

device picture is more useful ha In an actual thread the comments are full screen and glorious

This is good advice. OpenSignal can help you pinpoint where towers are on the map and which you are connected to. You may find yourself far away from any towers.

Unfortunately, T-Mobile signal issues with the device are well documented. T-Mobile often isn't the strongest carrier signal and the PH-1 doesn't have the strongest phone signal. The combination of those can be bad depending on your area.

The best idea is to setup WiFi and WiFi extenders at home for WiFi calling. Another option are MVNOs (basically resellers) like Red Pocket Mobile. They offer deals on mobile service on any of the 4 major networks via eBay specials. You can find those posted to https://slickdeals.net/ or deal subreddits. You basically wait until eBay offers a coupon at 20% off or $25 off etc, buy a year in advance, and activate on the network you choose. at&t, Verizon, Sprint, or T-Mobile.

I started off on Mint Mobile (6 months for $45) on the T-Mobile network with the PH-1. The latest baseband updates made it more usable, but calls will still drop and data drops occasionally when the phone moves between towers. After I switched to at&t on Red Pocket, it got a lot better in my area. at&t sucks in a lot of places so maybe you need Verizon instead. The PH-1 has weak signal so you'll have to make up for that somehow. Switching the network can help, but WiFi extenders are only $20.

I couldn't agree with this more. The night sight seems great at first, but you see a lot of artifacts, discoloration, and grain. It's really just like HDR Enhanced with increased exposure on the PH-1.

Honestly I just go with the pre-nightsight GCam and use the One Plus 6 cam's manual mode for enhanced low-light shots.

OnePlus Cam here

https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/messenger-google-inc/messenger-google-inc-3-5-053-release/

​

Worked for me.

Anyone else having installation issues? It downloads fine and starts Step 1, and immediately goes to this. I've tried multiple times, and also tried rebooting.

Could it be magisk? That's the only thing I can think of

This is extremely false. This has occurred for some people, not all.

https://slickdeals.net/f/10772655-sprint-essential-phone-5-m-with-flex-lease?src=SiteSearchV2Algo1

Recently, phones bought from Sprint have not been unlocking after payoff. Even when they do, they often relock with a Sprint Sim.

Sprint has a 50 day policy.

The most recent (According to Wikipedia) was updated on April 4th and is version 5.2.022

The current one that I have is 5.1.018. I haven't actually ever compared to two versions but it seems that I need to find a newer version than the one that I found a few months ago. I'll do some looking around and see if I can find the newest one

UPDATE

It turns out that the newest APKs don't work on any phone besides the pixel & nexus phones so the one that I got to work is the one that I have listed above: Version 5.1.018 Here's a link to that - https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/camera/camera-5-1-018-177624777-release/

I'm looking to replace my Essential PH-1, it still works well but I want to have a plan ready in case I need a new phone. I'm eyeing the Pixel 5. I know there are a lot Android hardware manufactures but many of these companies have been flagged for spying. Google already spies on us enough, no need to add extra 3rd parties. Samsung I think is still concerned "secure" but does not run a pure Android install so they are out as far as I am concerned.

Personally I have been looking to install Graphene OS on my next phone which limit my options to their list here. The 5a is newer but going back to a "plastic" back and gorilla glass 3 after the PH-1 just doesn't sit well with me. Maybe the Pixel 6 will be better.

You can take a look at some sample shots and compare it to other phone cameras here:

https://www.gsmarena.com/piccmp.php3?idType=5&idPhone1=8923&idPhone3=7588&idCamera2=300511

Unfortunately the PH-1 has not been tested by GSMarena, but my initial impression is that the quality is roughly comparable to the Razer. And both are quite far away from the performance of flagships like the S9, Pixels or Huawei P20 Pro.

Very likely Sharp, given Rubin's relationship with Softbank (and, by extension, Sprint)

Most will use the Google Camera app.

~~https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/camera/~~

Edit: looks like this will be a better choice: https://www.google.com/amp/www.androidauthority.com/google-camera-snapdragon-unofficial-port-793402/amp/

Don't get anything from this link. Look at OP's history, they're a bot.

The only real and trustworthy way to get Magisk is from this post on XDA.

With root and Magisk, there's a Magisk Module called Magic Charging Switch. It's designed to allow you to charge to a certain percentage, then stop charging, then continue after a while. It's configurable with some commands, so you probably could set it to stop charging completely at 80/90/etc%.

Yes.

SafetyNet will trip if the boot loader is unlocked.

You may be able to get around that if the kernel you run reports the BL status as locked but I'm not sure.

Bottom line is that if your BL is unlocked and you want to pass SafetyNet, use Magisk.

Also the Lineage stance on SafetyNet, is if you want to pass go to a stock ROM and lock the BL.

See here: https://www.lineageos.org/Safetynet/

So Magisk IS your only option to keep Lineage and pass SafetyNet

You have to start by assuming that the Essential phone has weak WiFi. That cannot be improved or changed by anything you do besides waiting for better firmware. The error above involves VPN. If you aren't using that or an adblocker that uses VPN somehow, it might not apply to you.

> I'm in a single floor apartment

Are you in a denser area with more than 6 WiFi networks within range? You might have an overlapping channel weakening the quality of the signal. You can check that on your laptop using something like https://www.netspotapp.com/

> gradual degradion of the WiFi

That leads me to believe there is some type of interference. It results in slow speeds that get slower.

If all else fails, you can get a WiFi Extender from Amazon for as little as $20. That will boost the signal towards your device making up for error rate, distance, microwave, or a mad scientist neighbor with poor shielding.

> My XYZ phone can handle the WiFi Fine

Paraphrasing a possible follow up reply.

The Essential phone has weak overall wireless connectivity. They are supposedly working on it. We've recently started to see modem upgrades and changes. Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities are on now. Android P could bring more. We don't know. For now, it has weak overall wireless connectivity. You have to mitigate that as best you can.

I used B6000 glue. I used this YouTube video: https://youtu.be/4TNdrXQkzU0

And these are the tools I bought, which came WITH the glue as well: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MGSTJK1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_K4YCN3A3PWJJ8NQM8J72?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I will update how it holds!

I used this one with PH-1, a little bit bulky but it worked well

https://www.amazon.com/Headphone-Adapter-Charging-Splitter-Compatible/dp/B08Y8DDV5C/

Try it, if it does not work there's "free return" if you are in US.

I've always liked Skinomi protectors. They are a flexible vinyl material that's self healing. Had one on my 5x before I switched too. There's the normal gloss one that I got this time or they have a matte finish "anti-glare" that's really nice as well. Can only find the anti-glare in the full body skin on Amazon tho. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074TSW9LF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_urNlAbKX0MXR1

It is very obvious when shopping on Amazon that squaretrade insurance is based on what you paid for an item. You click "learn more" during the shopping process and you're taken to a page like this:

https://www.amazon.com/SquareTrade-Unlocked-Accidental-Protection-400-499-99/dp/B074MGFGTN/ref=psd_si_lm_B074BWGRKH_B074MGFGTN

It clearly says:

SquareTrade 2-Year Unlocked Cell Phone Accidental Protection Plan ($400-499.99)

https://www.amazon.com/SquareTrade-4-Year-Desktops-Protection-Plan/dp/B00FBIZX58/ref=psd_si_lm_B071DM6TWM_B00FBIZX58

There is one on Amazon that has a ceramic feel back. Not exactly what you wanted, but close... https://www.amazon.com/Essential-TUDIA-Lightweight-Absorption-Featuring/dp/B077DW6B76/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1514747512&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=essential%2Bphone%2Bcase&th=1

Probably'll get some flack for this, but this is the case I got.
Yes, it does lower (not completely block, despite some reviews on Amazon) your signal on wifi (and possibly mobile data, I can't test), but it exchange, it comes with a screen protector that doesn't really suffer from the rainbow effect, and requires no adhesive. Everything else is also solid, from the feel to the buttons on the side.
If you're willing to make that trade off, it's a great case.

I had thought about that.

As long as the case isn't too thick it should work.

I ended up buy a new case on Amazon that has a flip down back to provide access.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C4YVM6V/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Looks better in real life.

You will really want to go with a USB PD (Power Delivery) charger. The ones that you shared will charge at 15 W, but the essential phone can charge at rates up to 27 W. This makes a big difference when running GPS, as my phones used to lose battery with a 15 W charger.

Here is a link to the model I use. I bought it on Amazon but it is no longer for sale there.

https://m.ebay.com/itm/Type-C-PD-Quick-Charge-3-0-Car-Charger-69W-Adapter-for-iPhone-X-S8-S7-Xiaomi-LG/272936362870?hash=item3f8c466376:g:Nr0AAOSwC-taDQln

Other USB PD chargers should also work well. In the specs just look to make sure they support 27 W.

I did spend a little more on my USB-C cable. Mine supports up to 20V 3A.

Perigears USB-C to Type C Cable, 1 meter (3.3 feet), Gold Plated Contacts, Seamless Plug Shield Construct, Low Voltage Drop, Support up to 20V 3A Charging and USB 2.0 Data (Cable only) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWX06IR?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Oh it's one of those wet installs, which I've never done before this one.

I ordered off Skinomis official website cause there was a promo code available online, but you can easily find them on Amazon.

Full screen (Amazon does sell the case friendly version too but no Prime shipping):

Essential Phone Screen Protector (PH-1), Skinomi TechSkin Full Coverage Screen Protector for Essential Phone Clear HD Anti-Bubble Film https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074TSW9LF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_knlABb743F954

Read the top review on Amazon. It seems simple actually: https://www.amazon.com/HIDIZS-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier-Smartphone/dp/B07F2DTTGT

I still haven't got one, so I can't vouch for it but I'm planning on an Amazon Basics 6ft braided cable.

This, based on how long-lasting my iPhone cable turned out.

Fluid Navigation Gestures work perfectly for me. Works with ADB or root. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fb.fluid&hl=en_US

Google lists app downloads in bands (1,10,100,1000,etc...)

The Essential Apps (camera, Essential Services, Essential Resources) sit above the 100K mark but below the 500K giving us some idea on how many units actually exist

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.essential.ecore

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.essential.klik

LINES: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.natewren.lines

There is also a free version. It's pretty comprehensive but a few items you have to manually change the icons. I use Sync for Reddit and had to update the icon.

I like the Should I Answer app. You can configure it in several ways, including to send private calls to voicemail.

It also uses user ratings to decide which calls are marketing, etc. so you can also choose what to do for those calls.

Try a different launcher from the play store and get a better alarm app. The default one (Quickstep) is decent but sometimes contributes to the memory leak problems of all recent update. Heck I have an iOS 12 Launcher that I use ~40% of the time just because I can. Reboot the phone every few days and you will notice the problems diminish. Update the phone to the latest February update that was released Monday. The problem with texts not coming through is usually due to a misconfigured setting with your SIM card. Disabling Voice over LTE has fixed many issues with SIM cards with dropped calls and audio related issues. I have found that I have accidently dismissed an upcoming alarm before it does off as it will notify you that there is an upcoming alarm. Worst case scenario I would recommend a OnePlus 6T as it is an excellent phone for your $600 Max budget. It is considered the best budget flagship phone you can get. For now update your phone and put an iOS launcher of it and people will ask what iPhone you have like every day. There is also an control center that allows you to customize it. Having owned an iPhone before I really like it. The launcher itself has no ads but only the app that configures it so once you set it up there are no ads. iOS 12 Launcher---> https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.luutinhit.ioslauncher

Control Center (companion app)----> https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.luutinhit.controlcenter

You don't need to examine scrolling recorded at high fps to see the jitter. Use the app called Touch Screen Test to see a visual trace of what is getting sampled. Essential's touch sampling is done in small groupings with pauses between. Something like sample, sample, none, none, sample, sample... Here's an example from my phone. You can cleary see the odd sampling distribution.

You just need an app that can provide a shortcut to tethering. This is what I use: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.logpedia.tether

Its not blocked, just hidden.

no root just download this app and then the latest digital wellbeing apk and then go on the pixel shortcut app and enable digital wellbeing then open digital wellbeing and the wellbeing app will be in ur app drawer

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actionlauncher.pixelshortcuts

What do you mean by a super cheap subscription? If you bought a cracked subscription from some third party that could be the problem, maybe you got an account that many users use. Because NordVPN never disconnects like this to me. What you can do is either go to their customer support and ask, or get rid of the app you have now, go to NordVPN page and get a free trial and try then.

Yeah, I feel the same. I took a lot of risks buying this phone - at the time I knew the camera sucked, the software wasn't that good, and I don't have the option to ask for a repair, since I live in Brazil. At first I really loved the phone, it's a beautiful piece of hardware, but the software, on the other hand... I also tried custom ROMs (AOSIP and LOS), but they are no good also. Don't get me wrong, I know how hard it is to mantain a custom ROM, and I'm thankful for the devs, but I don't think the community is going to grow enough any time soon to have more people working on custom ROMs. Anyway, the software. I'm on OB3, that strangely works better than 7.1, even being a beta, but sometimes feels like this phone has a will of its own. Some apps, like NordVPN, just hangs the system, the phone gets hot and I have to reboot it. Now, I'm searching for a good deal on a Pixel - maybe even a 1st gen one - and I don't think I'm coming back for a PH-2. :(

Rooted and using Substratum for themes. Currently using the Belo theme.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=dejan.llevo3.belo

Also made the navbar slightly shorter too, found it too big initially

The Essential PH1 is actually the closer phone to "stock" Android than the Pixel is. There are some additions that Google makes to the Pixel over AOSP (Android Open Source Project, which is the publicly available Android code and what I would call "stock"). A custom launcher (the home screen application), as well as ARCore and Daydream support (phone-based VR headset).

I do prefer the Pixel Launcher over the stock Android launcher. Somebody was nice enough to port it over, you can get it here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=amirz.rootless.nexuslauncher

WaveUp will let you do this.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jarsilio.android.waveup&hl=en

I'm doing the same thing! 5X to PH-1!

For SMS backup, use SMS Backup+ (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.zegoggles.smssync)

For WhatsApp, go to Settings -> Chat -> Chat Backup

My 5X is rooted, so I use Titanium Backup... Idk if I can restore on a non-rooted device...

Anyone have a dji mavic drone or just able to verify the app opens? Mine was crashing on prior betas and wouldn't open at all.

Edit: Store link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=dji.go.v4&hl=en_US

Sprint and Essential are hiding the settings. It's supposed to display if you have tethering included in your plan. Since you claim you do, either it's a bug in the OS or network configuration or something isn't identifying your plan properly with the phone.

Either way, since it's not completely blocked and only hidden, any shortcut solution will work. I use an app that acts as a shortcut to the settings called Tethering Settings Shortcut https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.logpedia.tether

It's not a hidden feature. It's simply not included as a basic Android function.

There are some apps in the app store you can get that do what you're asking about. They all have the same functionality. Just do some searching.

I've had no issues connecting to 5GHz Wi-Fi. Our setup has two Ubiquiti access points and the Essential registers with very high TX and RX rates (867 Mbps), to the point where it can max out our Internet connection on Speedtest at 178 Mbps. Both APs have the same 5GHx SSID and the Essential roams between them seamlessly.

I might suggest that you install Wifi Analyzer and see if your 5GHz signal is visible, and (if you can) compare it with known working 5GHz access points. Also, sometimes it can help to reset the wireless connections (System -> Reset options on LOS 15.1, hopefully that's in stock Android as well) and retry connecting.

EDIT: Forgot to add, I'm using Lineage OS 15.1 with Essential's April modem update.

Custom Navigation Bar app supports profiles. I think it even supports tasker locale tasks. So if you have/use Tasker already, you can use that to make it happen. I thought Tasker was a bit overwhelming for me (but that was a few years ago) and went with MacroDroid.

One example of how I use MacroDroid with Custom Navigation Bar is:

I set the Trigger (what activates the automation) to music playing. I set the Action (what happens when the trigger is activated) to launch a Tasker/Locale task. This I set to use Custom Navigation Bar, which then I can configure to select a profile I setup with that app. The profile I choose is a Music profile -- I added skip/back buttons to the nav bar. I then setup a reverse automation in MacroDroid that switches the Custom Nav Bar profile to default when music is NOT playing. I did the same to launch a "keyboard" profile I created that adds left/right cursor arrows when the keyboard app I use is open. And a reverse automation to switch back to default when the keyboard app isn't open (as in when I'm typing or not typing).

These are actually three different questions.

Calendar events and contact info should come through. Might take a little time.

Apps and (some) app data. https://www.androidcentral.com/how-restore-your-apps-and-settings-new-android-phone

Google doesn't backup texts. You can use this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.riteshsahu.SMSBackupRestore&hl=en_US to backup texts and calls from your old phone and restore to the new one

Is easy to have it today on ph1.

Step 1 Install x home bar and configure it with basic commands. Back, home, recent apps.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lagache.sylvain.xhomebar.free

Step 2 Install SwiftKey and configure it to close keyboard with a swipe down

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.touchtype.swiftkey

Step 3 Expand screen permanently to full using this adb command:

adb shell wm overscan 0,0,0,-150

DONE you have a fullscreen xphone like experience. I use this config from week without any issue

Bluetooth Volume Control
Add your bluetooth devices, and when connected it will adjust the media volume to whatever you configured.

Black & white matte skins are from Dbrand.

Icons are Pixly, on Playstore here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=stealthychief.theme.pixly

I would be wearing a watch anyway, so having one that alerts me to notifications from my phone is helpful (it keeps me from pulling out my phone every time). This is essentially the same thing a Pebble does. I could certainly live without a smart watch, but I was able to pick this one up for pretty cheap, so it was worth it to me.

What city are you in? Also, have you tried using OpenSignal to see how reception should be in your area? I also use LTE Discovery to reset my radio and ping the best cell stations (this improves my signal A LOT). I'm on Sprint in rural areas and the coverage is atrocious. However, I can usually get my PH-1 to find a better station that it otherwise wouldn't have found. However, I've never had a dropped call and I never am out of service, so maybe I'm just geographically blessed by comparison.

FYI, Motorola devices have among the best reception. Their cellular IP portfolio is massive and they've always been strong in that regard. The Nexus 6 (also my previous device) is no exception, gets marginally better reception but has slower LTE speeds.

You really can't. Try Custom Navigation Bar. It gives you a lot of control without overlaying anything over the screen. I set it up with MacroDroid to do some neat profiles -- if music is playing, skip tack buttons are added to the nav bar. If keyboard is open, cursor arrows are on either side (easier than trying to drag the text cursor 1 character over).

I'm sure you can change where the back button is with it.

Vysor works over ADB, if you don't mind turning USB debugging on to use it. I know it works over USB, but it might wirelessly. You don't need to use any command line code to start it. Download the Chrome extension and it usually auto launches when your phone connects.

I haven't been able to get video to fill around the camera. But there is an app you can get called GMD Full Screen Immersive Mode to make most other apps use the whole screen. In order to unlock app by app permissions you have to get the paid version. I used my Google Opinion Rewards credits to pay for mine. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gmd.immersive&hl=en

This one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GKSPMCQ

Works for me under Pie, but there's some AR problems. Fiddling with SecondScreen improves it somewhat.

Haven't tried under Oreo. It could be perfect.

This one is compatible

18w Aukey USB C Wall Charger w/ Power Delivery 3.0 ($12) -> https://slickdeals.net/f/12113611-18w-aukey-usb-c-wall-charger-with-power-delivery-3-0-12?src=frontpage

I know you mentioned Verizon, but would this be an option?

Red Pocket Mobile via https://slickdeals.net/ is the way to go for at&t

Also, give your thoughts here on the PH-2

Go here: https://slickdeals.net/ and look for Red Pocket Mobile. You'll see eBay deals and links included. Use those. Do not use any MVNO based on T-Mobile. Red Pocket Mobile offers all four networks in most offers letting you choose.

I think it is this: https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/paphonb/rootless-pixel-2-launcher-mod-for-pixel/pixel-launcher-2-p-4623511-modded-5-3-build-23-for-pixel-release/pixel-launcher-p-4623511-modded-5-3-build-23-pixel-android-apk-download/

You have to enable the new search bar style in the Customization settings.

The latest apk version and download is HERE : https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/google-phone/google-phone-24-0-214850721-release/google-phone-24-0-214850721-3-android-apk-download/

I fixed it by re-installing it from APKmirror

Edit: here's the link https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/google-inc/google-connectivity-services/google-connectivity-services-e-2-5-20-4775620-release/google-connectivity-services-e-2-5-20-4775620-android-apk-download/

These two are mine, but they're a bit touched up from Google Photos.

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipOnLBQCqIhgDNyIgzmlsSSjLW3OcQpJ9t-U_koMQkcFjQetiuJ9VrWdR8EH23M_bg?key=cmFVcTZwX095Y21QeVpwZ0xvT1hESWJaNzNuUGZR