diff --git a/docs/ChromecastGoogleTV.md b/docs/ChromecastGoogleTV.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7da9478 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/ChromecastGoogleTV.md @@ -0,0 +1,42 @@ +# Chromecast with GoogleTV +While being a great SmartTV replacement the default set-up does not allow for much customization and has annoying ads included. +## Changing the Default Launcher +You will need: +- A Chromecast with GoogleTV +- A Laptop with `adb` installed. (On Arch: part of the `android-tools` package) +- A Laptop with Thunderbolt or USB-C which allows for high power throughput to power the Chromecast as well as connect via ADB. + +Google, being Google, does not allow for the disabling of Ads in their default Launcher. +This is a tutorial on how you can disable the default launcher and replace it with one of your choice. +We're assuming you're using a Chromecast with Google TV similar to [this one](https://www.digitec.ch/de/s1/product/google-chromecast-mit-google-tv-4k-google-assistant-streaming-media-player-14676764). + +### Download a Launcher of your choice +Go to the Google Play Store and choose any Launcher you would like to use. Good ones are FLauncher or Launchy for a more minimalistic approach. +Ensure that the Launcher is installed and working before proceeding. + +### Enable Developer Options. +Go to `Settings -> Device -> About -> Build` and press the main button about 10 times until a Dialog pops up claiming you're now a developer. + +### Connect your Laptop +Plug the Power Cord of the Chromecast into your Laptop. You will most likely require a USB-C to USB-C cable instead of the included USB-A to USB-C one. The Chromecast should now be able to boot up without the low-power warning. If you're getting the low-power warning you cannot continue and might require a different laptop with better Thunderbolt/USB-C support. + +On the chromecast there should now pop-up a dialog asking whether you want to trust the connected device. Trust it. + +### Disable the Default Launcher via ADB + +On your Laptop, open a terminal and ensure that you can find the chromecast via `adb show`. One device should be listed. + +Then, use these commands: +```sh +adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.apps.tv.launcherx +adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.tungsten.setupwraith +``` +This should have disabled the default launcher. When pressing home, a dialogue should pop up asking for a new default Launcher if multiple are installed. + + +### Re-Enable the Default Launcher via ADB +In case you want to revert these changes you can use these commands to do so: +```sh +adb shell pm enable com.google.android.apps.tv.launcherx +adb shell pm enable com.google.android.tungsten.setupwraith +``` diff --git a/index.md b/index.md index a4a8eff..0b5809a 100644 --- a/index.md +++ b/index.md @@ -29,6 +29,9 @@ Happy to accept pull requests for new topics! ======= - [calcurse sync](docs/calDAV.md) Sync calcurse with you phone etc. +# Other +- [Chromecast with Google TV](docs/ChromecastGoogleTv.md) a neat way to disable the built-in launcher and it's baked-in ads. + # Admin - [README](README.md)