Getting Some KitKat 4.4

A few days ago, Google unveiled the highly anticipated Nexus 5, powered by Android 4.4 KitKat. Unable to resist the temptation, I dedicated a few hours to satisfying my tech cravings by upgrading my HTC One X with the latest Android goodness. Don’t forget to take a break with kitkat!

Disclaimer: This article does not intend to delve into the exhaustive list of features or provide an in-depth review of Android 4.4 KitKat, as the internet is already teeming with such information. Additionally, I have yet to utilize the 4.4 ROM due to work commitments. However, I will share some initial impressions and experiences with simpler aspects..

It didn’t take long for KitKat’s APKs to surface on the internet. As expected, XDA Developers were the pioneers, making available the 4.4 Launcher, keyboard, gallery, and camera (now separate) for download. Personally, I was not particularly drawn to the new keyboard, which introduces system-wide emoji support. Moreover, I had concerns about the stability of the new Camera with Photosphere. Hence, I opted to focus on the brand new Launcher and Hangouts to replace the stock AOSP Mms.apk.

Fortunately, setting them up on my devices was a breeze, excluding the always-on “Ok Google” function, which ceased functioning after a few reboots. Determined to resolve this, I embarked on a quest to restore its operation on my devices.

To my delight, the solution proved to be straightforward. I merely had to follow these steps: 1) Remove the stock Google Search Box, 2) Replace the com.google.android.gms-1.apk in /data/app with the 4.4 version, 3) Ensure proper chmod and chown, and practice clearing the cache and dalvik to allow the system to initiate a fresh start. Voila! Everything now functions flawlessly, including the ever-convenient “Ok Google” voice search.

Android 4.4 Kitkat launcher.

While the changes introduced may not be extensive, they are certainly appreciated. I found the new app button and the transparent drawer particularly pleasing, adding a touch of intuitive elegance to the user interface. Finally, widgets have been relocated to a hidden section, alleviating the need to swipe through unused ones.

And yes, the “Ok Google” feature works seamlessly. I find myself unable to resist invoking it at every opportunity. If only it could brew a cup of coffee!

Homescreen Limitation — A Welcome Addition

Gone are the days of relying on third-party tweaks to restrict unused homescreens. The stock 4.4 KitKat launcher takes care of this for you. Need an additional homescreen? Simply drag your apps to a new screen. Using only one homescreen? No longer will you be subjected to futile left and right swiping, endlessly cycling through blank homescreens. It’s reminiscent of the iOS experience in this regard.

A Cleaner Interface with Delightful Additions

Hangouts (v2) now incorporates SMS functionality, seamlessly replacing the stock Messages app. I couldn’t resist removing the Mms.apk once I experienced the feature-rich integration it offers. From consolidating Google Talk within a single app to effortless location sharing, Hangouts boasts a friendlier UI, accompanied by an array of adorable emoticons to enhance your texting adventures. However, the absence of the quick reply feature is notable, but I anticipate it won’t be long before an update reinstates it, adding more excitement to the party.

Posted November 3, 2013

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