|
|
webOS Nation Forums > webOS smartphones (Pre, Pixi, Veer) > webOS tips, information, and resources > Palm Pre Faq: A Newbie Guide to Your WebOS Device!!! Welcome.
1 2 3 4 5 6
For sake of easier editing here is a Google Doc im still tweaking it.. but most of the info here is there.
If anyone would like to help add more questions to the doc.. please PM me.
Whats Covered in this FAQ?? everything from backing up applications to setting up webos quick install and much much more... READ ON!!
Whats WebOS and Whats so Special About it?
The Palm Pre. It's not just a phone it's an idea wrapped in innovation and progress that is the web. Through this new device 5 years in the making we would actually see a spark of hope, actually two sparks, in fact, from the failing company that WAS Palm, in the vision that was called the Pre and webOS.
The Pre and WebOS, as well as future WebOS Devices, bring with it a new element of getting things done Mobiley.Yes, this is epic stuff.
One is the hardware, obviously. The other is the operating system which will be Palm's platform for mobile devices for the foreseeable future: WebOS.
Some of the ideas behind webOS -- a Linux-based platform which leverages web standards for development -- are revolutionary for smartphones.
Before We get started Forum Member livelife has found an official getting to know your webos device... by Palm which can be located here... Have a Look..
How do i Transfer my conacts to my phone? (I came from a blackberry, iphone, treo 755 etc....)
Well since The Palm® Synergy feature brings together your various online accounts for Calendar, Contacts, IM and more into one logical view on your phone. For example, if you have info about one person in many different places, your phone shows them in a single entry for that person. All of your info remains in its original location online. You'll need to move your existing info to one of the online services supported by Palm Synergy.
Where is your existing data? Export your existing information from ...
Corporate/Server-based
Outlook/Exchange (EAS)
Windows
Palm Desktop
Standalone Outlook
Mac
iCal and Address Book
Palm Desktop
Other
Outlook Express and more
Online
Google Calendar & Contacts
Facebook
Yahoo!
Hotmail
Have you not been paying attention??? With Synergy its already done!
Ok I Like the Idea of Synergy... but I NEED a Desktop Solution... what can I do????
Your Palm webOS™ phone uses over-the-air synchronization to bring information from your online accounts, such as Google™, MicrosoftÆ Exchange, and FacebookÆ, to your phone. If you prefer to sync your contacts, calendar, and media directly with your computer, check out these compatible third-party solutions (sold separately)
Contacts/Calendar/Tasks/Memos
Chapura Echo™ for Palm Desktop by ACCESS
Use your Wi-Fi or BluetoothÆ PAN network to more securely sync Palm Desktop 6.2.2 Date Book and Address Book with your Palm webOS phone.
Echo is the Palm Desktop synchronization solution for Palm Pre
Download to Phone
ChapuraÆ PocketMirrorÆ for Outlook
Use your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth PAN network to more securely sync Microsoft OutlookÆ Calendar, Contacts, and Notes with your Palm webOS phone.
Palm Pre Outlook Sync Solution - PocketMirror Standard by Chapura
Download to Phone
Are my Backups "Safe"?
Well with Synergy, your contacts are in whats now called "The Cloud" which means its stored and encrypted on Palms servers. However The Cloud can be kinda scary just look what happened to sidekick owners.
While the sidekick, however, just stores your contacts on the cloud, and NOT on the phone, so whenever you needed a contact the phone would contact sidekicks servers and pull the info from there, and If it was Not to be found than you have BIG problems.
The Pre/Pixi and WebOS, However, only sync info to the cloud. once the Syncing is complete, even once, the data is stored on your phone, and will continue to sync with the cloud only when needed. (ie you add a contact to your phone.)
Regardless all this becomes problematic if you use the Default Palm account. If you store your contacts in Google or yahoo or facebook. than you dont even have to worry about that.
What can i do to insure i dont lose my information?
Well You can do one of two things.
One is by using Gmail to store your Contacts and Google Calendar for your calendar. Which was covered above.
Two - 1.4.5 ONLY - which a much more legnthy process. You can Backup your PalmDatabase.db3 file ( Click HERE to find out HOW) in there is where alot of your information is stored.
Three - all webos versions - open the dial pad and dial ##66623# (CDMA devices) or *#66623# (GSM), this will allow you to export ALL your profiles contacts to an external file on your devices USB drive, its in a hidden folder called .temp
What Information is backed up aside from contacts?
All webOS versions - Contacts, Memos, Bookmarks, Web History, Browser Cookies and Applications from the App Catalog
2.1 - Also Backs up your Call Logs and SMS Text Messages (no MMS)
How do i backup my SMS/MMS Messages?
As Stated Earlier, Alot of your information is in that PalmDatabase.db3 file. Text/MMS Messages are there.
Cautionary Note: I feel it neccessary to point out that some users have reported weird effects of restoring this file between (A) Different devices... ie you switched to another pre. or (B) using a Backup from a WebOS Device That is not the same Version of software on your current Device.
You Have Been Warned!!!
(Click HERE to find out HOW)
How do i get apps on my phone?
Simple enough. Theres 4 methods.
One way is via the Official Palm App Catalog which is a separate app on your phone
AppScoop
WebOs Quick Install
Preware
Both WebOs Quick Install (to be reffered to as WOQI from now on in this post) and preware allow you to install Homebrew Applications.
Wait!! Home...What???? Whats Homebrew???
Homebrew Apps are free applications in the last stage of development ("beta testing"). Try them out and give your feedback. Hundreds of free titles cover battery life, podcasts, ebooks, GoogleVoice, comics, the Bible, plus dozens of games and utilities.
The usual warnings apply. These apps are not from Palm, and are under development - use with care.
How Do i Get Homebrew Apps on my phone?
As stated before. Using WOQI or Preware. There are other apps that do the job as webb these 2 are just the most robust, IMHO if you will.
Where Can i find WebOs Quick Install?
Slow Down... I know your excited about all this but... who am i kidding to get started with all the Homebrew Goodness CLICK HERE: Getting Started: Homebrew Apps, Patches, and Themes with WebOS Quick Install
Where can i find preware?
Now this is an interesting question, since currently there are only 2 ways i know of to install preware.
One is to have a basic understanding of linux command lines.
Two - is to use WOQI.]CLICK HERE: Getting Started: Homebrew Apps, Patches, and Themes with WebOS Quick Install[/url]
How to install Preware on Your Phone
I will not cover how to install via command line as that is beyond the scope of this FAQ. to learn more about linux command lines and webos see this link.
WebOs Internals - Basic Linux Use
Learn More about Preware
Is it Possible that Preware ever be available from the App Catalog or Web Channels?
Well this is another interesting Question. Palm currently, as stated earlier, Backs up all your Applications that have been downloaded from the App Catalog ONLY. It does NOT However backup any of your Homebrew Applications.
Can i Backup my HOMEBREW apps?
Plainly Put Palm will tell you no. But theres GOOD News. Because ill tell you yes!!!
How to Backup Homebrew Apps Click HERE
I bought an app and want to back up the Progress and/or Information i put into it. How can I do that???
Thankfully for the WebOS-Internals team there IS an APP (for.. errm) Called Save/Restore, Guess what it does?? No? It backs up all your App Data!!
The Official Thread is located here Save/Restore Community Development
Currently (as of this writing) there are a little over 250 of the nearly 5,000 apps supported.
There are some functions that i miss from my old phone that the pre/pixi cant seem to do, is there a way to put them on?
The great thing about WebOs is that its completely adaptable. So yes SOME of those missing features can be added by way of Patches.
Patches add missing features to the Messaging, Email, Calendar, Phone, Browser, and other apps. by way of Modifying existing files within the core of WebOS. So as always Use caution when installing Patches. Users have developed patches to add or change features in webOS Messaging, Email, Calendar, Phone, Browser, Launcher and other applications.
So How do you get these patches on your phone?? Either Preware or WOQI of Course.
For a list of current patches see These Posts:
Patch Areas
• App Catalog and App Launcher Patches
• Browser Patches
• Calculator, Calendar, Camera and Contacts Patches
• Email Patches
• Messaging Patches
• Misc, Mojo, Music Player, Notifications, and PDF Patches
• Phone Patches
• Screen and Lock, Sounds and Alerts, and Task Patches
• Top Bar Patches
• Universal Search, Video Player, and YouTube Patches
• Patches Not in Preware
I Seriously Screwed up my phone with one of YOUR Patchamathingies that YOU told me to install, Now its DEAD!! so what do i do now?
First of all no need to get snippy, You are responsible for what you decide to install on your device.
Now That thats out of the way, all is not Lost for palm has created a tool that can restore your phone to its factory original state, and since like was discussed previously, all of your info is Synergized, cloudified or whatever you like to call it. all your info Should be safe.
I will not try and repost what is already available .. so heres a link to The Doctor that can Help cure your phone. WebOS Doctor - and Recovering your "Bricked Phone"
you can also do a search on the forums if this did not solve your issue. however to date i havent heard of a completely unrecoverable Pre.
I Just read that an UPDATE came out and i have all of your Patchamathingies and themes, its ok to update right?
In a word AUPT
As of the Latest 1.4.0 Update , you do NOT have to Remove any Patches Before Updating your Phone. You still NEED to REMOVE THEMES However.
What is AUPT and how does it work?
AUPT (Auto Update Patch Technology) is a system put together by the Web-os internals guys that after an WebOS Update is installed ,Preware or WOQI will detect what patches you had before the Update and check to see if there is a compatible version of that patch for the new WebOS Vers. If there is, Than all youneed to do is press the Update Button in Preware or WOQI and Viola!! Patch Updated...
If there is No Compatible version of the patch than a "Dummy" Patch will be installed , as a placeholder , untill the patch is available for the new WebOS vers.
Please Note: Any patches that you have modified the code by hand , may Not work with AUPT and any such questions can be directed to this Thread AUPT: Auto Update Patch Technology
I see you Started Talking about themes , where are they?
Themes Can be installed via preware or WOQI (if youre installing themes using WOQI you need to download the Theme files from HERE or HERE
So How many themes can i install at once, i had a blackberry and had like 40 themes installed at the same time, I can do that right?
As stated before In a word ABSOLUTELY NOT (ok 2 words..)
You can only have one theme installed on your phone at a time. trying to install another will just cause your phone to look very strange and sometimes act very funny. As some themes install Patches at the same time to get the effects they desire.
IF you ignore this post you will find yourself back in the forums asking why is my phone all screwed up and doing weird things.... Like .... Calling your Ex-Wife and telling her "yes Ill gladly give you the rest of whats in my bank account"
My Screen Cracked and it Wont Let me to go in USB MODE What Can i do?
Well Good NEWS as of WebOS 1.3.1 and on (You should not be on anything less at the moment no matter where you live in the world) There is a shortcut for just this problem
Palm WebOS 1.3.1 Changelog
You can access USB Drive mode by pressing and holding the orange key/Option + Sym + U after connecting the phone to the computer. This enables you to access USB drive mode if the screen is broken or stops responding to taps.
I cant get WebOS Doctor to recognize my Pre/Pixi???
1. With the USB cable connected, completely power off the Pre (hold down the power button until the option to power off appears)
2. Hold down the Up button on the volume rocker
3. While holding the Up button, power on the Pre
4. "Next" should now be enabled - proceed with the recovery
For more info. check out webos-internals document located here http://www.webos-internals.org/wiki/How_to_recover
I have Windows 7 and its not detecting my phone, how do i get my WebOS Device to be Recognized???
http://forums.precentral.net/canuck-...i-v1-11-a.html
if that doesnt work try
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1781748
If our still having futher issues check out these posts within that 11 page thread.
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post2002003 Post 157
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1939886 Post 126
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1947471 Post 130
http://forums.precentral.net/canuck-...ml#post2031609
I live in Canadia (i know its canada) and im on F****ng Bell!!!... HOW Do I Get Sprint firmware/apps on my Bell Pre???
http://forums.precentral.net/palm-pr...ml#post1955911
My Phone just got Lost/Stolen But i have a Ton of Personal Information and other doodads that i dont want to be found What can i Do???
If anyone would like to help add more questions to the doc.. please PM me.
Whats Covered in this FAQ?? everything from backing up applications to setting up webos quick install and much much more... READ ON!!
Whats WebOS and Whats so Special About it?
The Palm Pre. It's not just a phone it's an idea wrapped in innovation and progress that is the web. Through this new device 5 years in the making we would actually see a spark of hope, actually two sparks, in fact, from the failing company that WAS Palm, in the vision that was called the Pre and webOS.
The Pre and WebOS, as well as future WebOS Devices, bring with it a new element of getting things done Mobiley.Yes, this is epic stuff.
One is the hardware, obviously. The other is the operating system which will be Palm's platform for mobile devices for the foreseeable future: WebOS.
Some of the ideas behind webOS -- a Linux-based platform which leverages web standards for development -- are revolutionary for smartphones.
Originally Posted by :
So whats so good about WebOS, you ask. Well first thing is the beautiful User interface that palm has implemented in the form of "Cards".
Cards
Cards allow the user, in essence to multi-task by quick opening an application and instead of wasting time waiting for the application to load, you can simply "push" the card out of the way so you can open another application. This uses similiar technology that google uses in its chrome web browser. Essentially The WebOS operating system is one big web browser. looking at it from that perspective,the cards are similiar to the Tabs found in all current web browsers. The reason i point out google chrome is firstly its based on the same technology, they both use the webkit standard, but thats a more legnthy article and 2 for each tab you open in google chrome a new process is created, so each tab is its own program so to speak. This is exactly how webos works. so you can multiple cards working and running LIVE in the background. This allows for true Multi tasking capabilities.
Universal Search
Another great advancement is the Use of "Universal Search".
The phone will allow you to search MOST any part of the phone, no matter where you are. so if youre in one of the many facebook apps , slide the card out of the way and seach for a contact, lookup something in wikipedia etc.... without the need to actually be in your contacts app, or be on the wiki site.
Synergy.
Synergy, a contact / calendar management system that aims to put an end to the confusion of having to juggle multiple accounts from multiple services on a single mobile device.
The Synergy premise is simple: it will take your Gmail account, Facebook profile, AIM identity, and / or Exchange data and merge it all together on your Pre, killing duplicate entries, joining together sources where there's overlap (creating "linked contacts"), and generally making your connected life super-duperly easier and staying better connected, Simply put Much more awesome.
Notification System
Yet another score is the Notification system.
Instead of Annoying pop-ups, Palm has opted for small wedges that appear at the bottom of your display (like the windows taskbar on autohide) when a mesaage/email/alarm/text or what have you comes in the appropriate icon (sometimes accompanied by a little chime) will reveal the small taskbar at the bottom portion of your screen. Not only is it unobtrusive but is really elegant. As these build, your screen scales to fit in the space allotted which is an elegant solution to people who get many emails, texts or what have you. Because Not only do the messages collapse into a single, manageable line until you're ready to deal with them, but you can swipe away alerts once you've read them.
There are many more features that make webOS unbelievable, and now with it coming to verizon later this month (I prefer sprint) theres no reason not to have a look.
Oh as a side note the Pre will be the mobile device to be able to view embedded flash content (coming later this month)
So whats so good about WebOS, you ask. Well first thing is the beautiful User interface that palm has implemented in the form of "Cards".
Cards
Cards allow the user, in essence to multi-task by quick opening an application and instead of wasting time waiting for the application to load, you can simply "push" the card out of the way so you can open another application. This uses similiar technology that google uses in its chrome web browser. Essentially The WebOS operating system is one big web browser. looking at it from that perspective,the cards are similiar to the Tabs found in all current web browsers. The reason i point out google chrome is firstly its based on the same technology, they both use the webkit standard, but thats a more legnthy article and 2 for each tab you open in google chrome a new process is created, so each tab is its own program so to speak. This is exactly how webos works. so you can multiple cards working and running LIVE in the background. This allows for true Multi tasking capabilities.
Universal Search
Another great advancement is the Use of "Universal Search".
The phone will allow you to search MOST any part of the phone, no matter where you are. so if youre in one of the many facebook apps , slide the card out of the way and seach for a contact, lookup something in wikipedia etc.... without the need to actually be in your contacts app, or be on the wiki site.
Synergy.
Synergy, a contact / calendar management system that aims to put an end to the confusion of having to juggle multiple accounts from multiple services on a single mobile device.
The Synergy premise is simple: it will take your Gmail account, Facebook profile, AIM identity, and / or Exchange data and merge it all together on your Pre, killing duplicate entries, joining together sources where there's overlap (creating "linked contacts"), and generally making your connected life super-duperly easier and staying better connected, Simply put Much more awesome.
Notification System
Yet another score is the Notification system.
Instead of Annoying pop-ups, Palm has opted for small wedges that appear at the bottom of your display (like the windows taskbar on autohide) when a mesaage/email/alarm/text or what have you comes in the appropriate icon (sometimes accompanied by a little chime) will reveal the small taskbar at the bottom portion of your screen. Not only is it unobtrusive but is really elegant. As these build, your screen scales to fit in the space allotted which is an elegant solution to people who get many emails, texts or what have you. Because Not only do the messages collapse into a single, manageable line until you're ready to deal with them, but you can swipe away alerts once you've read them.
There are many more features that make webOS unbelievable, and now with it coming to verizon later this month (I prefer sprint) theres no reason not to have a look.
Oh as a side note the Pre will be the mobile device to be able to view embedded flash content (coming later this month)
Before We get started Forum Member livelife has found an official getting to know your webos device... by Palm which can be located here... Have a Look..
How do i Transfer my conacts to my phone? (I came from a blackberry, iphone, treo 755 etc....)
Well since The Palm® Synergy feature brings together your various online accounts for Calendar, Contacts, IM and more into one logical view on your phone. For example, if you have info about one person in many different places, your phone shows them in a single entry for that person. All of your info remains in its original location online. You'll need to move your existing info to one of the online services supported by Palm Synergy.
Where is your existing data? Export your existing information from ...
Corporate/Server-based
Outlook/Exchange (EAS)
Windows
Palm Desktop
Standalone Outlook
Mac
iCal and Address Book
Palm Desktop
Other
Outlook Express and more
Online
Google Calendar & Contacts
Yahoo!
Hotmail
Originally Posted by :
On your phone, open the "Contacts" Application.
Open the application menu (swipe down on the top left corner of the screen) and tap Preferences & Accounts.
Tap Add Another Account or Add an Account.
Enter your username and password for that account.
This is the same username and password you use to login to this email account on the web, such as:
Yahoo! Mail:
Gmail:
Microsoft Exchange or Outlook: Firstname Lastname
NOTE Sometimes your username is not your first name and last name. Contact your IT department for more info.
Other email: (or just yourname)
NOTE Contact your account provider if you're not sure.
Ok, I transfered my contacts, now how do i back them up?On your phone, open the "Contacts" Application.
Open the application menu (swipe down on the top left corner of the screen) and tap Preferences & Accounts.
Tap Add Another Account or Add an Account.
Enter your username and password for that account.
This is the same username and password you use to login to this email account on the web, such as:
Yahoo! Mail:
Gmail:
Microsoft Exchange or Outlook: Firstname Lastname
NOTE Sometimes your username is not your first name and last name. Contact your IT department for more info.
Other email: (or just yourname)
NOTE Contact your account provider if you're not sure.
Have you not been paying attention??? With Synergy its already done!
Ok I Like the Idea of Synergy... but I NEED a Desktop Solution... what can I do????
Your Palm webOS™ phone uses over-the-air synchronization to bring information from your online accounts, such as Google™, MicrosoftÆ Exchange, and FacebookÆ, to your phone. If you prefer to sync your contacts, calendar, and media directly with your computer, check out these compatible third-party solutions (sold separately)
Contacts/Calendar/Tasks/Memos
Chapura Echo™ for Palm Desktop by ACCESS
Use your Wi-Fi or BluetoothÆ PAN network to more securely sync Palm Desktop 6.2.2 Date Book and Address Book with your Palm webOS phone.
Echo is the Palm Desktop synchronization solution for Palm Pre
Download to Phone
ChapuraÆ PocketMirrorÆ for Outlook
Use your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth PAN network to more securely sync Microsoft OutlookÆ Calendar, Contacts, and Notes with your Palm webOS phone.
Palm Pre Outlook Sync Solution - PocketMirror Standard by Chapura
Download to Phone
Are my Backups "Safe"?
Well with Synergy, your contacts are in whats now called "The Cloud" which means its stored and encrypted on Palms servers. However The Cloud can be kinda scary just look what happened to sidekick owners.
While the sidekick, however, just stores your contacts on the cloud, and NOT on the phone, so whenever you needed a contact the phone would contact sidekicks servers and pull the info from there, and If it was Not to be found than you have BIG problems.
The Pre/Pixi and WebOS, However, only sync info to the cloud. once the Syncing is complete, even once, the data is stored on your phone, and will continue to sync with the cloud only when needed. (ie you add a contact to your phone.)
Regardless all this becomes problematic if you use the Default Palm account. If you store your contacts in Google or yahoo or facebook. than you dont even have to worry about that.
What can i do to insure i dont lose my information?
Well You can do one of two things.
One is by using Gmail to store your Contacts and Google Calendar for your calendar. Which was covered above.
Two - 1.4.5 ONLY - which a much more legnthy process. You can Backup your PalmDatabase.db3 file ( Click HERE to find out HOW) in there is where alot of your information is stored.
Three - all webos versions - open the dial pad and dial ##66623# (CDMA devices) or *#66623# (GSM), this will allow you to export ALL your profiles contacts to an external file on your devices USB drive, its in a hidden folder called .temp
What Information is backed up aside from contacts?
All webOS versions - Contacts, Memos, Bookmarks, Web History, Browser Cookies and Applications from the App Catalog
2.1 - Also Backs up your Call Logs and SMS Text Messages (no MMS)
How do i backup my SMS/MMS Messages?
As Stated Earlier, Alot of your information is in that PalmDatabase.db3 file. Text/MMS Messages are there.
Cautionary Note: I feel it neccessary to point out that some users have reported weird effects of restoring this file between (A) Different devices... ie you switched to another pre. or (B) using a Backup from a WebOS Device That is not the same Version of software on your current Device.
You Have Been Warned!!!
(Click HERE to find out HOW)
How do i get apps on my phone?
Simple enough. Theres 4 methods.
One way is via the Official Palm App Catalog which is a separate app on your phone
AppScoop
WebOs Quick Install
Preware
Both WebOs Quick Install (to be reffered to as WOQI from now on in this post) and preware allow you to install Homebrew Applications.
Wait!! Home...What???? Whats Homebrew???
Homebrew Apps are free applications in the last stage of development ("beta testing"). Try them out and give your feedback. Hundreds of free titles cover battery life, podcasts, ebooks, GoogleVoice, comics, the Bible, plus dozens of games and utilities.
The usual warnings apply. These apps are not from Palm, and are under development - use with care.
How Do i Get Homebrew Apps on my phone?
As stated before. Using WOQI or Preware. There are other apps that do the job as webb these 2 are just the most robust, IMHO if you will.
Where Can i find WebOs Quick Install?
Slow Down... I know your excited about all this but... who am i kidding to get started with all the Homebrew Goodness CLICK HERE: Getting Started: Homebrew Apps, Patches, and Themes with WebOS Quick Install
Where can i find preware?
Now this is an interesting question, since currently there are only 2 ways i know of to install preware.
One is to have a basic understanding of linux command lines.
Two - is to use WOQI.]CLICK HERE: Getting Started: Homebrew Apps, Patches, and Themes with WebOS Quick Install[/url]
How to install Preware on Your Phone
I will not cover how to install via command line as that is beyond the scope of this FAQ. to learn more about linux command lines and webos see this link.
WebOs Internals - Basic Linux Use
Learn More about Preware
Is it Possible that Preware ever be available from the App Catalog or Web Channels?
Originally Posted by Rod Whitby:
It is not.
You can get the ipkg from Index of / (or down in the feeds at Index of /feeds/....) but you will need an advanced homebrew installer to be able to install it.
Your choices of on-device advanced homebrew installers are Preware and Internalz. You can install either of them using the other, but you have to have one of them installed first, and the prerequisites to install either of them are identical.
So it's a catch-22, which is the reason why Palm is not concerned about the security aspects of Preware and homebrew, because you cannot break the Palm-liable app catalog security model unless you connect your device to a host computer and consciously install an advanced homebrew installer.
If this was to change, it would be a massive security vulnerability, and would need to be fixed by Palm (we would be the first to point it out to them). So it's not going to happen.
-- Rod
Can i Backup my apps?It is not.
You can get the ipkg from Index of / (or down in the feeds at Index of /feeds/....) but you will need an advanced homebrew installer to be able to install it.
Your choices of on-device advanced homebrew installers are Preware and Internalz. You can install either of them using the other, but you have to have one of them installed first, and the prerequisites to install either of them are identical.
So it's a catch-22, which is the reason why Palm is not concerned about the security aspects of Preware and homebrew, because you cannot break the Palm-liable app catalog security model unless you connect your device to a host computer and consciously install an advanced homebrew installer.
If this was to change, it would be a massive security vulnerability, and would need to be fixed by Palm (we would be the first to point it out to them). So it's not going to happen.
-- Rod
Well this is another interesting Question. Palm currently, as stated earlier, Backs up all your Applications that have been downloaded from the App Catalog ONLY. It does NOT However backup any of your Homebrew Applications.
Can i Backup my HOMEBREW apps?
Plainly Put Palm will tell you no. But theres GOOD News. Because ill tell you yes!!!
How to Backup Homebrew Apps Click HERE
I bought an app and want to back up the Progress and/or Information i put into it. How can I do that???
Thankfully for the WebOS-Internals team there IS an APP (for.. errm) Called Save/Restore, Guess what it does?? No? It backs up all your App Data!!
The Official Thread is located here Save/Restore Community Development
Currently (as of this writing) there are a little over 250 of the nearly 5,000 apps supported.
Originally Posted by Rod Whitby:
If you want to have your favourite application supported, then we propose a bounty system where someone who requests support for an application offers twice the cost of the application as a bounty (so the developer who adds support can buy that app for testing, plus another of their choosing for themselves, which they will then be likely to support with a saverestore script as well).
Note that a bounty is for the initial addition of support for the desired application, it must not have any strings attached regarding ensuring that application continues to be supported into the future if webOS or the application changes.
Post #341 in this thread has instructions on how to create new save/restore scripts. Please post any scripts you create in the Official Save/Restore thread located here Save/Restore Community Development so that we can add them to the official application releases.If you want to have your favourite application supported, then we propose a bounty system where someone who requests support for an application offers twice the cost of the application as a bounty (so the developer who adds support can buy that app for testing, plus another of their choosing for themselves, which they will then be likely to support with a saverestore script as well).
Note that a bounty is for the initial addition of support for the desired application, it must not have any strings attached regarding ensuring that application continues to be supported into the future if webOS or the application changes.
There are some functions that i miss from my old phone that the pre/pixi cant seem to do, is there a way to put them on?
The great thing about WebOs is that its completely adaptable. So yes SOME of those missing features can be added by way of Patches.
Patches add missing features to the Messaging, Email, Calendar, Phone, Browser, and other apps. by way of Modifying existing files within the core of WebOS. So as always Use caution when installing Patches. Users have developed patches to add or change features in webOS Messaging, Email, Calendar, Phone, Browser, Launcher and other applications.
So How do you get these patches on your phone?? Either Preware or WOQI of Course.
For a list of current patches see These Posts:
Patch Areas
• App Catalog and App Launcher Patches
• Browser Patches
• Calculator, Calendar, Camera and Contacts Patches
• Email Patches
• Messaging Patches
• Misc, Mojo, Music Player, Notifications, and PDF Patches
• Phone Patches
• Screen and Lock, Sounds and Alerts, and Task Patches
• Top Bar Patches
• Universal Search, Video Player, and YouTube Patches
• Patches Not in Preware
I Seriously Screwed up my phone with one of YOUR Patchamathingies that YOU told me to install, Now its DEAD!! so what do i do now?
First of all no need to get snippy, You are responsible for what you decide to install on your device.
Now That thats out of the way, all is not Lost for palm has created a tool that can restore your phone to its factory original state, and since like was discussed previously, all of your info is Synergized, cloudified or whatever you like to call it. all your info Should be safe.
I will not try and repost what is already available .. so heres a link to The Doctor that can Help cure your phone. WebOS Doctor - and Recovering your "Bricked Phone"
you can also do a search on the forums if this did not solve your issue. however to date i havent heard of a completely unrecoverable Pre.
I Just read that an UPDATE came out and i have all of your Patchamathingies and themes, its ok to update right?
In a word AUPT
As of the Latest 1.4.0 Update , you do NOT have to Remove any Patches Before Updating your Phone. You still NEED to REMOVE THEMES However.
What is AUPT and how does it work?
AUPT (Auto Update Patch Technology) is a system put together by the Web-os internals guys that after an WebOS Update is installed ,Preware or WOQI will detect what patches you had before the Update and check to see if there is a compatible version of that patch for the new WebOS Vers. If there is, Than all youneed to do is press the Update Button in Preware or WOQI and Viola!! Patch Updated...
If there is No Compatible version of the patch than a "Dummy" Patch will be installed , as a placeholder , untill the patch is available for the new WebOS vers.
Please Note: Any patches that you have modified the code by hand , may Not work with AUPT and any such questions can be directed to this Thread AUPT: Auto Update Patch Technology
I see you Started Talking about themes , where are they?
Themes Can be installed via preware or WOQI (if youre installing themes using WOQI you need to download the Theme files from HERE or HERE
So How many themes can i install at once, i had a blackberry and had like 40 themes installed at the same time, I can do that right?
As stated before In a word ABSOLUTELY NOT (ok 2 words..)
You can only have one theme installed on your phone at a time. trying to install another will just cause your phone to look very strange and sometimes act very funny. As some themes install Patches at the same time to get the effects they desire.
IF you ignore this post you will find yourself back in the forums asking why is my phone all screwed up and doing weird things.... Like .... Calling your Ex-Wife and telling her "yes Ill gladly give you the rest of whats in my bank account"
My Screen Cracked and it Wont Let me to go in USB MODE What Can i do?
Well Good NEWS as of WebOS 1.3.1 and on (You should not be on anything less at the moment no matter where you live in the world) There is a shortcut for just this problem
Palm WebOS 1.3.1 Changelog
You can access USB Drive mode by pressing and holding the orange key/Option + Sym + U after connecting the phone to the computer. This enables you to access USB drive mode if the screen is broken or stops responding to taps.
I cant get WebOS Doctor to recognize my Pre/Pixi???
1. With the USB cable connected, completely power off the Pre (hold down the power button until the option to power off appears)
2. Hold down the Up button on the volume rocker
3. While holding the Up button, power on the Pre
4. "Next" should now be enabled - proceed with the recovery
For more info. check out webos-internals document located here http://www.webos-internals.org/wiki/How_to_recover
I have Windows 7 and its not detecting my phone, how do i get my WebOS Device to be Recognized???
http://forums.precentral.net/canuck-...i-v1-11-a.html
if that doesnt work try
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1781748
If our still having futher issues check out these posts within that 11 page thread.
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post2002003 Post 157
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1939886 Post 126
http://forums.precentral.net/web-os-...ml#post1947471 Post 130
http://forums.precentral.net/canuck-...ml#post2031609
I live in Canadia (i know its canada) and im on F****ng Bell!!!... HOW Do I Get Sprint firmware/apps on my Bell Pre???
http://forums.precentral.net/palm-pr...ml#post1955911
My Phone just got Lost/Stolen But i have a Ton of Personal Information and other doodads that i dont want to be found What can i Do???
Originally Posted by HelloNNewman:
Go to the Palm website, log into your account and remote-wipe your device.
https://ps.palmws.com/palmcsext/cons...oginPage.iface
(Log in with the same email and password you used on your device)
Remote wiping does not make it unusable forever. It simply wipes all account info, settings, and USB content from the device and takes it back to the initial log-in screen. Reporting it as stolen to the carrier will cause the ESN to be locked - is what makes it unusable.
Go to the Palm website, log into your account and remote-wipe your device.
https://ps.palmws.com/palmcsext/cons...oginPage.iface
(Log in with the same email and password you used on your device)
Remote wiping does not make it unusable forever. It simply wipes all account info, settings, and USB content from the device and takes it back to the initial log-in screen. Reporting it as stolen to the carrier will cause the ESN to be locked - is what makes it unusable.
Backing up Your PalmDatabase.db3 File
Your palm profile contains your memos , SMS/MMS conversations, Contacts and Calendars in your palm profile, Your User created accnt Email addresses that have your Other contacts/calendars or IM accnts such as Google calendar or Gmail Contacts and your email accounts.
Read Below how to safely have a Backup of all that. Please Note that when you backup this info you should only restore it to a phone that is the same vers. as the previous phone. also i have found that it is best to do a FULL Erase and than a WebOS Doctor for this to work best. (to ensure no patches themes exist anywhere on your phone.) As such Backup all the contents of your USB drive , Sans the Hidden Folders (meaning Do Not back up any folder with a period inf front of its name like .palm)
Your palm profile contains your memos , SMS/MMS conversations, Contacts and Calendars in your palm profile, Your User created accnt Email addresses that have your Other contacts/calendars or IM accnts such as Google calendar or Gmail Contacts and your email accounts.
Read Below how to safely have a Backup of all that. Please Note that when you backup this info you should only restore it to a phone that is the same vers. as the previous phone. also i have found that it is best to do a FULL Erase and than a WebOS Doctor for this to work best. (to ensure no patches themes exist anywhere on your phone.) As such Backup all the contents of your USB drive , Sans the Hidden Folders (meaning Do Not back up any folder with a period inf front of its name like .palm)
Originally Posted by :
While we have no evidence to suggest that the failure of Palm Profiles to successfully sync contacts to newly activated webOS devices is a widespread phenomena , it is widespread enough to be a cause of concern. These recent developments, compounded with the Danger fiasco last month, should serve to reinforce the importance of data redundancy, even in the days of "cloud computing." To echo Dieter's sentiments on the issue:
Our advice: your key data should always be in a minimum of three places:
Those who want to back up their data without parting with money are still in luck, however: utilizing the tools and resources already made available to us by members of the webOS community, it is possible to back up the contents of your Palm Profile, and even export the contacts contained therein to the cloud service of your choice.
Here's how.
Step 1: install and configure webOS Quick Install
Follow the directions here for installing and configuring Jason Robitaille's webOS Quick Install, and what steps are needed to get your webOS device ready for the procedure.
Step 2: Extract PalmDatabase.db3
Per the webos-internals wiki, everything in your Palm Profile is kept in an sqlite database located in /var/luna/data/dbdata/PalmDatabase.db3.
If that sentence doesn't make much sense to you, that's okay.
To extract the database file, connect your webOS device to your computer, selecting "just charge". Start webOS Quick Install and navigate your way to Tools > Receive file, where you'll enter "/var/luna/data/dbdata/PalmDatabase.db3". Select where you'd like the program to save the file, and click "Get From Device!".
Step 3: Archive, Export, or Transplant
Archive: If you're not interested in transferring the contacts contained in PalmDatabase.db3, performing a weekly backup as a "just in case" is never a bad idea.
Export: If you are interested in exporting your contents to a cloud service, xybyre has created a program, which can be downloaded from here via a donation of $5, that will extract the contents from the database file into a CSV file that can be exported into gmail, outlook and the like. Questions to the developer can be directed to him in this forum thread.
DrewPre also has a utility for doing this requiring users to root their devices, but the complexity of using his method is beyond the scope of this write up. If you're interested in more about this method, take a look though this thread in the forums.
Transplant: In the way that we were able to copy a file from a webOS device, it is also possible to copy a file to a webOS device.
(IMPORTANT NOTE: Send the file back to the phone with the same software vers as the previous and send it to this location "/var/luna/data/dbdata/" not like the screenshot
So long as the OS version of the device the data is taken from matches that of the receiving device, you should be able to transplant PalmDatabase.db3 without any ill effect. Just transfer the file over, restart the phone, and you should be good to go.
Further resources
As always, the forums are an excellent resource if you have any questions regarding this process at all. Many, if not all, of the developers behind the programs and resources used for this quick how to maintain a regular presence there. Go ahead, give 'em your thanks, and if you really dig their work, a donation.
http://www.precentral.net/how-back-y...le-informationWhile we have no evidence to suggest that the failure of Palm Profiles to successfully sync contacts to newly activated webOS devices is a widespread phenomena , it is widespread enough to be a cause of concern. These recent developments, compounded with the Danger fiasco last month, should serve to reinforce the importance of data redundancy, even in the days of "cloud computing." To echo Dieter's sentiments on the issue:
Our advice: your key data should always be in a minimum of three places:
- Your Pre (where it's persistent as long as you don't erase anything)
- A cloud service (Palm, Google, Exchange, etc)
- Someplace 'else.' For most of us that will be your desktop, where hopefully you're pulling down your data from Google or Exchange. If you're using Palm's profile exclusively, we suggest you take a look at one of the several desktop sync apps that are available now.
Those who want to back up their data without parting with money are still in luck, however: utilizing the tools and resources already made available to us by members of the webOS community, it is possible to back up the contents of your Palm Profile, and even export the contacts contained therein to the cloud service of your choice.
Here's how.
Step 1: install and configure webOS Quick Install
Follow the directions here for installing and configuring Jason Robitaille's webOS Quick Install, and what steps are needed to get your webOS device ready for the procedure.
Step 2: Extract PalmDatabase.db3
Per the webos-internals wiki, everything in your Palm Profile is kept in an sqlite database located in /var/luna/data/dbdata/PalmDatabase.db3.
If that sentence doesn't make much sense to you, that's okay.
To extract the database file, connect your webOS device to your computer, selecting "just charge". Start webOS Quick Install and navigate your way to Tools > Receive file, where you'll enter "/var/luna/data/dbdata/PalmDatabase.db3". Select where you'd like the program to save the file, and click "Get From Device!".
Step 3: Archive, Export, or Transplant
Archive: If you're not interested in transferring the contacts contained in PalmDatabase.db3, performing a weekly backup as a "just in case" is never a bad idea.
Export: If you are interested in exporting your contents to a cloud service, xybyre has created a program, which can be downloaded from here via a donation of $5, that will extract the contents from the database file into a CSV file that can be exported into gmail, outlook and the like. Questions to the developer can be directed to him in this forum thread.
DrewPre also has a utility for doing this requiring users to root their devices, but the complexity of using his method is beyond the scope of this write up. If you're interested in more about this method, take a look though this thread in the forums.
Transplant: In the way that we were able to copy a file from a webOS device, it is also possible to copy a file to a webOS device.
(IMPORTANT NOTE: Send the file back to the phone with the same software vers as the previous and send it to this location "/var/luna/data/dbdata/" not like the screenshot
So long as the OS version of the device the data is taken from matches that of the receiving device, you should be able to transplant PalmDatabase.db3 without any ill effect. Just transfer the file over, restart the phone, and you should be good to go.
Further resources
As always, the forums are an excellent resource if you have any questions regarding this process at all. Many, if not all, of the developers behind the programs and resources used for this quick how to maintain a regular presence there. Go ahead, give 'em your thanks, and if you really dig their work, a donation.
How To Back Up Apps
Ok so now the Good stuff.
This will show you how to backup your homebrew apps as well as app catalog apps via one of several different methods.
This is mainly for backup purposes for those that want to make sure they dont have to rely on their palm profile. This will not reinstall the app on your phone automagicall from the USB drive.
Now as a side note... No matter which method you choose know that some files are extremely large and will take time to copy over. Be patient and wait about a minute and a half, and try not to let your phone goto sleep mode in between.
Step 1: Proper Tools for the Job
Yes like any Job You need the proper tools, so if you havent done so yet go start downloading and installing your WOQI and Preware.
Step 2: Grabbing dem files!!!
You may get to these files one of a few ways ... i will discuss here 2 ways. Starting with My Favorite.
Preware and Internalz
And Done!!
For this next method you will need to know the applications App Id (Ex: com.app.iwanttoBackup)
Terminal: My Next Favorite
Ok so now the Good stuff.
This will show you how to backup your homebrew apps as well as app catalog apps via one of several different methods.
This is mainly for backup purposes for those that want to make sure they dont have to rely on their palm profile. This will not reinstall the app on your phone automagicall from the USB drive.
Now as a side note... No matter which method you choose know that some files are extremely large and will take time to copy over. Be patient and wait about a minute and a half, and try not to let your phone goto sleep mode in between.
Step 1: Proper Tools for the Job
Yes like any Job You need the proper tools, so if you havent done so yet go start downloading and installing your WOQI and Preware.
Step 2: Grabbing dem files!!!
You may get to these files one of a few ways ... i will discuss here 2 ways. Starting with My Favorite.
Preware and Internalz
- Fire up Preware and when all the feeds have finished loading tap on "List of Everything"
- Start typing in preware (this will initiate a universal search in preware) Internalz
- click on it and click install
- Internalz is dependant on another file as well in order to work and guess where it is... thats right Preware.
- So lets do another Universal search by swiping back and deleting the contents of the search field
- now do a search for Service
- A bunch of diff files shoul come up , the one we want is FileMngr Service click that and install
- After it installs your phone will lose signal its ok its doing a java restart
- Now leave Preware and fire up Internalz
- navigate to the directory /media/cryptofs/apps/usr/palm/applications/
- tap and hold the folder you want to backup
- now let go
- click copy
- select /media/internal/ as the destination
And Done!!
For this next method you will need to know the applications App Id (Ex: com.app.iwanttoBackup)
Terminal: My Next Favorite
- Fire up Preware and when all the feeds have finished loading tap on "List of Everything"
- Start typing in preware (this will initiate a universal search in preware) Terminal
- click on "Terminal" NOT "Terminal Service" and click install
- Terminal is dependant on another file as well in order to work Preware should install it on its own but if not.
- do another Universal search by swiping back and deleting the contents of the search field
- now do a search for Terminal
- A bunch of diff files shoul come up , the one we want is Terminal Service click that and install
- After it installs your phone will lose signal its ok its doing a java restart
- Now leave Preware and fire up Terminal
- Dont be scared of the Black screen
- Start Typing
- cd / (press enter)
- rootfs_open -w (press enter)
- cd /media/cryptofs/apps/usr/palm/applications/ (press enter)
- cp -rf com.appyouwant.tobackup /media/internal/ (press enter)
- Reboot (press enter)
- wait for your phone to reboot and you should find the file on the usb drive
should have used capital letters for the title 
awesome work though!
awesome work though!did i miss anything? im sure i did
Um, ya. What he said.
Seriously, anything you'd ever need to know is up there. Wow.
Thanks!
Seriously, anything you'd ever need to know is up there. Wow.
Thanks!
i believe i just finished please let me know if i missed anything... mind you this is more of the basics ... NEWBIE Guide.
i updated all my previous posts
i updated all my previous posts
Just awesome! Timing couldn't be better, my Pre is waiting on the desk at home to be activated tonight.
I've been lurking around here since June and always wondered how I would ever keep all of this stuff straight, now I have my answer!
I've been lurking around here since June and always wondered how I would ever keep all of this stuff straight, now I have my answer!
I cant help but think this is all just a GUISE =) Other than the typo nice work!
yeah I edited the title 2 sec later but to no avail... Hopefully we can get this stickied and the title corrected.. And copy it to the pixi and gsm forums as well
Info is ok. But you're all over the place.
I would imagine the person (that the guide is meant for) knows nothing about webOS or the Pre and he or she has made the decision to go buy it already. And go from there. No need to talk about the wonder of cards & multitasking...its assumed the new user made the decision to purchase it.
So what to do first? If you have contacts somewhere, transferring to google or creating a google account would be great to have before heading to store. Look at purchasing gsyncit at http://www.daveswebsite.com/software/gsync/ if you use Outlook. Or whatever you use.
2. Set up profile. Make google (or whatever else) your default for contacts & calendar, not Palm Profile.
3. Update the Pre to current OS version. (i recently purchased one that came with 1.2 on it). Reboot.
4. Make sure everything works & syncs. Check out screen for dead pixels.
5. Then its up to you from here. I think i installed a few free apps and one paid one.
6. Use quick install and get Preware. Look at patches. Look at some homebrew apps like drpodder, remix..
7. Look at using Doubletwist or similar for media sync.
8. Move icons around, explore your Pre, change settings, etc.
I'm not trying to make a guide or criticize, but just saying a new user might find the guide more useful if laid out in terms of what you should do first.
I would imagine the person (that the guide is meant for) knows nothing about webOS or the Pre and he or she has made the decision to go buy it already. And go from there. No need to talk about the wonder of cards & multitasking...its assumed the new user made the decision to purchase it.
So what to do first? If you have contacts somewhere, transferring to google or creating a google account would be great to have before heading to store. Look at purchasing gsyncit at http://www.daveswebsite.com/software/gsync/ if you use Outlook. Or whatever you use.
2. Set up profile. Make google (or whatever else) your default for contacts & calendar, not Palm Profile.
3. Update the Pre to current OS version. (i recently purchased one that came with 1.2 on it). Reboot.
4. Make sure everything works & syncs. Check out screen for dead pixels.
5. Then its up to you from here. I think i installed a few free apps and one paid one.
6. Use quick install and get Preware. Look at patches. Look at some homebrew apps like drpodder, remix..
7. Look at using Doubletwist or similar for media sync.
8. Move icons around, explore your Pre, change settings, etc.
I'm not trying to make a guide or criticize, but just saying a new user might find the guide more useful if laid out in terms of what you should do first.
personally I don't really care to remove the first half of my post..
the point of the post isn't to teach you how to use the phone..this isn't the manual. This is to divert repetetive forum posts.. On the major points
the point of the post isn't to teach you how to use the phone..this isn't the manual. This is to divert repetetive forum posts.. On the major points
I understand that because of the title it's misleading.. That can be changed
Anyone who spends this much time to help out his fellow WebOs users, deserves to have his thread stuck... Good job.
sketch42, Excellent!! Just what I was looking for! I have three Pre's on the way and this will help me greatly!
Thank you for taking the time to help this noob and I am glad to be part of such a helpful and responsive community.
Well done!
Thank you for taking the time to help this noob and I am glad to be part of such a helpful and responsive community.
Well done!
fixed orphaned links
Originally Posted by sketch42:
Where can i find preware?
Now this is an interesting question, since currently there are only 2 ways i know of to install preware.
One is to have a basic understanding of linux command lines.
Two - is to use WOQI.
http://install.preware.org/ will always point to the best instructions for installing Preware. Please use it as the canonical set of instructions.Where can i find preware?
Now this is an interesting question, since currently there are only 2 ways i know of to install preware.
One is to have a basic understanding of linux command lines.
Two - is to use WOQI.
-- Rod
hey quick question,..wht can u tell me about the my tether app?
Originally Posted by rwhitby:
http://install.preware.org/ will always point to the best instructions for installing Preware. Please use it as the canonical set of instructions.
-- Rod
thats currently where my link goes...http://install.preware.org/ will always point to the best instructions for installing Preware. Please use it as the canonical set of instructions.
-- Rod
install.preware.org is a redirect to the link in my post
Originally Posted by sketch42:
thats currently where my link goes...
install.preware.org is a redirect to the link in my post
The difference is that the http://install.preware.org/ url will *always* point to the correct instructions, even if they need to change.thats currently where my link goes...
install.preware.org is a redirect to the link in my post
The link that it points to now is not under the direct control of the developers, so can easily get out of date.
-- Rod
webOS Nation Forums > webOS smartphones (Pre, Pixi, Veer) > webOS tips, information, and resources > Palm Pre Faq: A Newbie Guide to Your WebOS Device!!! Welcome.
