Analog clock in the Android status bar. How to hide icons in the status bar on Android devices. Transparent clock and weather
August 12, 2014 at 5:07 pmProblems with time and time zones in Android and ways to solve them
- System administration
- Tutorial
Let's say you've been using Android for a long time, and therefore it may seem that it copes perfectly with time synchronization tasks - alarms go off on time, there are no obvious time deviations, etc. However, are you completely sure where Android comes from? actually receives data about the exact time and time zones? If you have any doubts about how this works, welcome to cat.
Android has two problems with time: its unpredictable synchronization and the need to update time zone data even in the latest version of the OS.
Background: Android is a mobile OS based on the Linux kernel, it easily connects to the Internet and, of course, one can assume that time synchronization is carried out using NTP, however, this is not the case. Historically, Android was intended to be used exclusively on mobile phones (think version 1.6). At the same time, only by the 3rd major version did it acquire an interface for tablets and other progress began towards unifying the interface and OS hardware. However, even versions 4.4 and Android L receive time signals using the same methods that the Nokia 3310 and other earlier GSM/3GPP phones received them, i.e. from cell towers when registering on the network (when connected to the tower). At the same time, tablets or other devices without a communication module, in principle, do not have the ability to synchronize time automatically.
Unfortunately, in order to teach Android to synchronize time completely automatically using NTP, we need root access because there is currently no API for accurately setting the time in Android.
Let's get started. The first thing you need to do is turn off time synchronization with the mobile network. At the same time, I recommend leaving the time zone setting in automatic mode, and turning it off only if there is a guarantee that the device will operate in stationary mode.
Screenshot of the settings window “Settings -> Date and time” of Android 4.x version:
Next, you need to install the ClockSync application, which will act as an alternative to the time synchronization daemon using NTP.
Screenshots of the ClockSync program window before synchronization (left) and after (right):
The screenshots show that the difference with the exact time turned out to be quite small, however, there are different situations, for some the time on the device can even float back and forth because the operator did not bother to put things in order on his BS.
After making sure that everything works, we’ll set up automatic synchronization in the ClockSync program. To improve accuracy, I recommend enabling the “High Accuracy Mode” and “Only via WI-FI” options. If with the first option everything is clear from the description in the program (see screenshot below), then I recommend enabling the second option primarily not for reasons of saving mobile traffic, but because the mobile Internet is not able to guarantee at least some stable delays.
A little more about accuracy:
The still widespread mobile Internet of the 2nd (GPRS/EDGE) is, in principle, unable to provide stable transmission delays. Even the Internet of the 3rd (3G) and, to some extent, 4th (LTE/LTE-advanced) generations, when the network or communication channels between BS are heavily loaded, which is a typical situation for large populated areas, cannot guarantee stable delays. Therefore, even with approximation, the final accuracy of time setting can be worse than a fraction of a second and can even easily reach several seconds.
Screenshot of automatic synchronization settings in ClockSync:
In connection with large-scale changes in time zones in the Russian Federation in the fall of this year, it is necessary now to think about updating information about them on all devices, and if there are no problems with supported desktop OSes, then in Android even the latest version of the OS contains outdated data. To make sure of this, install TimeZone Fixer and observe an unsightly picture.
A screenshot of the TimeZone Fixer program running on Android 4.4.4 (Cyanogenmod firmware dated August 4, 2014), which clearly shows that the data in the firmware is out of date:
A little bit of common sense and concern for users:
The author of the TimeZone Fixer program warns us that updating time zone data files can completely “break” the device and even gives recommendations on how to protect yourself from additional problems, although the cases of problems are isolated and very specific - this is really good care for ordinary users.
That’s the only reason I included this piece in the article; although it is not directly related to the problem, it is a really good example of caring about users. At the same time, the warning about versions 4.3+ is caused by only a small number of reviews about the program for devices with new OS versions, so please be sure to write a review about this application after use.
After updating the time zone data, the program will offer to reboot, however, I recommend rebooting the device yourself through the system menu since the program performs a reboot that is actually equivalent to a reset, which, although with a low probability, can lead to problems and data loss.
I will be happy to answer any questions or make additions that the community deems necessary, however, I would like to avoid overloading the article with additional information in order to adhere to the format of a compact guide to solving a specific problem.
UPD: This instruction completely solves the problem of time zones only for versions younger than 4.4. From version 4.4, additional patching is needed, while the issue is at the stage of exploring the possibilities for creating a user-friendly solution.
It happens that the clock on an Android device disappears, for example, after a firmware update. Returning them to the desktop is usually not difficult, since in most cases the widget only stops being displayed on the display, remaining in the device’s memory. We will tell you further how to return the clock to the Android screen or, if necessary, install new ones from the Google application store.
How to return an installed widget
If you accidentally deleted your watch or it disappeared, try displaying it on the screen in the simplest way:
If you deleted the application with the widget, read below on how to install a similar one from Google Play.
Clock widgets
Let us next consider the best programs with graphic modules for the main screen of the gadget from those presented in the official application store. Basically, in addition to displaying the time, they also provide a lot of other information, for example, the weather directly at the user’s location according to data received by the utility via GPS.
Transparent clock and weather
This is one of the most popular free clock widgets with more than 10 million installations. The small program has very flexible settings, as a result of which the owner of the gadget can set the display on the display the way he needs it. Utility features:
- the presence of various beautiful and informative widgets in sizes 2x1, 4x1-3, 5x3;
- wide selection of design themes, covers, fonts;
- displaying, in addition to the exact time, other important information - about the weather, wind direction, humidity and pressure, battery charge, calendar events, etc.
If the owner of the device does not need all this data provided by the utility by default, he can delete it in the settings and leave just the clock. For this:
- Tap your finger on the time display on the screen, which will open the settings window.
- Go to the "Appearance" section, then to "Advanced Settings".
- Uncheck the boxes next to the items displaying information about the current location, system information, battery charge and check the box next to the line “Hide weather”.
After this, a minimalistic clock widget will appear on the screen, the appearance of which you can also change according to your own preferences.
Sense Flip Clock & Weather
This clock widget displaying time and date is suitable for users who like Flip Clock style clocks with turning pages. Features of the utility:
- selection of widgets of different sizes - 4x1, 4x2 and 5x2;
- Flipping animation implemented;
- selection of different skins and icon display;
- the location is determined automatically, which allows the user to be informed of the most accurate forecast.
The weather display here can also be turned off if necessary, after which only a beautiful retro clock will appear on the screen. You can also test other similar utilities:
Clock on lock screen
If there is a need to change the installed lock screen so that a large dial is displayed on it, then in this case we can recommend the “Luminous Clock Chest”. The utility with such a strange name is free, does not require configuration and does not display any advertising on the lock screen.
Greetings, dear readers and admirers of Helpix. Today I present to your attention a tweak for pure Android - GravityBox version 3.5.7 for Android 4.2 (4.4 and 5 have their own versions) from the developer C3C076.
Applications for decorating the graphical interface of the operating system have always been, are and will be... there. There are resources. But nevertheless, the demand for them, as well as the supply, does not dry out. At one time, Android was served under the guise of fully customizable GUI to suit the tastes of the end consumer - you and me. At this point in time (it was 2015 in the morning), there are a lot of applications for decorating and transforming Android, well, just a lot. You can change everything, and not just change the picture on your desktop.
There are also various tweak applications for optimizing the performance of Android (in general, there are tweaks for any OS, but we are talking about Android for now). Stock Android does not have all the settings we need and want.
Many manufacturers of smartphones and tablets, especially large ones (Samsung, Sony, LG, Lenovo, HTC, etc.), have long taken the path of developing their own, supposedly unique user interfaces for Android. You buy, for example, a Samsung smartphone and get TouchWiz. And along with HTC, Sense comes into play. Lenovo installs, you won’t believe it, Lenovo Launcher on its devices (I wonder if this is an ambitious name or if there just wasn’t enough imagination for another name?). The proprietary user interface, of course, gives the user much greater customization options, as well as a more pleasant and beautiful (controversial point) appearance. But do you like everything about the proprietary firmware? Or is there something you wouldn’t mind changing? But, as you know, you can’t please everyone. And manufacturers tend to make their firmware (launchers, user interfaces) not only effective, but also spectacular, which is not always beneficial.
In addition to branded firmware, there are so-called custom or unofficial firmware. The meaning is the same, but the premises are diametrically opposed. Branded firmware comes from the manufacturer and imposes something of its own on us. Custom firmware is handicrafts made by enthusiasts (singles or small groups), designed for the needs of ordinary users. The enthusiasts themselves are the same users as we are, only they know and are able to do a little (or not a little) more than us. The advantages of unofficial firmware are many additional functions (useful and cosmetic) and programs, often root rights, as well as speed of operation and so on. But glitches are not uncommon, so there’s no need to hide them.
It is with these intricacies of thoughts that I bring you to the topic of today’s review. After all, you don’t have to reflash it, you can install GravityBox and change the stock (and not only stock) firmware beyond recognition. Completely unrecognizable both in appearance and partially in functionality. You can selectively customize the firmware of your device so that it suits exactly your tastes, preferences and desires, and not the tastes of guys from Samsung, Lenovo, LG, Google and others.
What can GravityBox do? Is it worth the trouble? After all, the device will have to be rooted, without this there is no way. The list of GravityBox capabilities is quite wide and large; just look at the main form:
That is, you can:
As you can see, you can do such a lot of things that you’ll get pumped up! Or you'll fall. You will fall off your feet from surprise or lose heart at the sight of a brick that you will now have to reflash to revive it. Therefore, I will repeat the developer: do not install GravityBox until you have made a full backup of the system. I made a backup - go for a walk safely.
So, let's throw ourselves into the abyss of settings and modes. But let's start with the initial data, that is, with our experimental subject. This is a Lenovo P780 with Android 4.2.1 on board and Lenovo Launcher installed on top.
Please note that GravityBox is not guaranteed to work on Samsung TouchWiz, HTC Sense, MIUI and LeWa. Not guaranteed, but not prohibited either. I tried installing GravityBox on a Samsung 3 Lite tablet: many functions did not work, but many felt right at home (especially the settings for the status bar, fan menu and navigation bar). On some devices, GravityBox may not even start. Lenovo Launcher was unable to do anything against GravityBox and surrendered to the mercy of the winner in almost all positions.
And further. You haven't forgotten, have you? Remember that all this
I’ll note right away that I won’t rewrite or screenshot every single setting, otherwise it won’t be a review, but a multi-volume instruction manual. I will mention simple and uninteresting settings in a word or two. Let's get started.
Lock screen settings
In the "Lock screen background" section, we configure, of course, the background of the lock screen. Filling with color, standard (from the desktop) and custom wallpaper, last screen as wallpaper, disabling the lock screen shadow - all this is selected here. Everything works, only I didn’t like the last screen as wallpaper on the lock screen because it takes too long to think (while it’s taking a screenshot, while it’s applying it, etc.).
The "Unlock Ring" section is more interesting. And the item “Unlock ring shortcuts” is interesting.
If you've ever been annoyed by the clutter of icons at the top of your Android home screen, good news: there's a way to fix it.
It turns out that there are 3 secret settings for Android users, and one of them will allow you to hide or show icons in the status bar (status bar). You can also rearrange the contents of the Quick Settings panel from the drop-down menu (status bar) as easily as making a small but important adjustment to the Android battery indicator.
You won't find these settings poking around in the standard settings screen. Instead, you first need to unlock the hidden UI settings (System UI Tuner). Here's how to do it.
How to open System UI Tuner
First, slide down the Quick Settings panel at the top of the screen, then press and hold the settings button (the one that looks like a gear) in the top right corner of the screen.
Press and hold the Settings button until you see a small wrench icon appear. Hold the Settings button long enough and a small wrench icon will appear next to the Settings button. Once you see the wrench, click on the Settings button again, then scroll all the way down to the new settings section - System UI Tuner.
When you first launch System UI Tuner, you'll see a warning that says (excerpt) "these features may change, break, or disappear in future updates" and "proceed with caution." Click Got It to continue and don't worry, you can always disable System UI Tuner if you don't want to bother with such "experimental" settings in Android anymore.
Once you have turned off the warning, you will have access to the System UI Tuner settings. Let's take a tour.
Re-sorting the Quick Settings panel buttons
You probably already know how to open the Quick Settings panel using a two-finger swipe down from the top edge of the screen. What you may still not know is that you have the ability to add, remove, and rearrange Quick Settings panel buttons, at least using the System UI Tuner.
You can rearrange or hide any quick settings buttons you want, all with a little help from System UI Tuner. Click Quick Settings on the System UI Tuner home screen and you'll see the standard Quick Settings button bar.
To move a button, press and hold, then drag it over another button, the two locations will move. To hide a button from the Quick Settings panel, press and hold it, then drag it onto the delete icon. To bring back any removed buttons, click Add Tile, then click the button's name.
If you want to return the old Quick Settings buttons, tap the three-dot menu button in the top right corner of the screen, then tap Reset.
Status bar control
If all the icons - Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, alarm and do not disturb - in the Android status bar are too large, System UI Tuner will help you reduce them.
Simply tap the switch to hide a specific icon from your Android device's status bar. Tap the status bar settings to see a list of ten status bar icons, ranging from Casts and Hotspot to mobile data and airplane mode, each with its own toggle. By default, each icon is enabled; To disable the icon, simply turn off the switch.
You can disable almost any icon in the status bar, except the battery indicator and clock.
If you want to more accurately track your Android device's battery charge, you can use the System UI Tuner to add a percentage indication to the stock Android icon.
A simple System UI Tuner will add a percentage value to the Android battery icon. Return to the main System UI Tuner screen, then tap Show Battery Level. Once you do this, you will see a small percentage on the battery icon at the top of the status bar.
Deactivating the System UI Tuner panel
Google isn't making any promises about removing features from its hidden System UI Tuner. As you may recall, a pop-up message when you launch Tuner warns that any and all of its customization options may change or disappear at any time.
If you'd rather not worry about when your favorite new settings will disappear, you can simply delete them in advance. On the main System UI Tuner screen, click on the three dots button in the top right corner of the screen, and then click Remove from Settings.
You can always change your mind, of course; Just go back to quick settings by swiping down and press and hold the Settings button.
