Android on yoav.blog

Tip: typing a long Google password into a new Android device

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 09:32:28 +0000

I use a password manager and create very long passwords where possible, including for my Google account. The problem? when setting up a new Android phone, I can’t download the password manager app until I’ve logged into my Google account, which is nearly impossible without the password manager app.

The workaround? Enable USB debugging on the phone, and use ADB to enter the password:

./adb shell input text "LONG COMPLICATED PASSWORD"

Is it safe enough? Probably not. Use at your own risk 🙂

Trigger actions on OS X using NFC on Android

Wed, 30 Dec 2015 08:50:03 +0000

Having recently started using a treadmill desk, I wanted to automate actions on OS X as I switched from the regular desk to the treadmill. For example, turn on Bluetooth, switch the audio output device, etc. Sure, I can do that by creating an Automator script I’d run somehow, but I was curious to see if I could make it happen just by placing my phone on the treadmill desk.

From Runkeeper to Runtastic

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 11:06:17 +0000

I started running a few months ago, with Runkeeper as my running app. The UI made sense, the audio cues were useful, and I liked the fact that friends were using it too and sharing their efforts.

Yet, too often my runs appeared like this:

I can run on water

I’m inclined to blame the phone’s GPS, but I expect the app to be smart and average my position to figure out I didn’t make impossible jumps across the lake. This was especially confusing during runs when I was doing intervals.

Ice Cream Sandwich on the Nexus S

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:45:25 +0000

I’ve been running Alpha 11 of CyanogenMod 9 (Android 4.0/ICS) on my Nexus S for the past few days and all I can say is wow. ICS feels like a whole new era for Android, and this build is rock solid.

While you’re at it, get the awesome new 2.0 beta of WordPress for Android.