HOWTO: customize cube on Touch Dual (24 May: added side4-only CAB to post #3)

[pp18]

Thanks to experts in this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=325424) of the Elf forum. Obviously most info below are evolved from it. Hence, i'm not going to repeat the same things here.

[Introduction]
Some Touch Dual is shipped with a 4-side cube while some with 3 sides only. In fact both are supported by Touch Dual and it's just a matter of registry settings.

will split the write-up into 3 posts.

#1 - briefly describe the concerned reg keys and files
#2 - sample .reg for controlling number of sides, animations, and the app launchers
#3 - links to packaged themes attached to this thread

[Usage Notes]

1. You must have a Touch Dual (Nike). Surely the descriptions and reg won't work on Touch (Elf) or Sprint Touch (Vogue), as some registry settings are different. Take your own risk if you try on other versions of the TouchFlo cube.

2. You need to have \Windows\CustAPLauncher.exe shipped with your Touch Dual, instead of a version you got from other sources.


[About the relevant regs and files]

(A) Involved exe
Biotouch - play the up-down animation, play the left-right animation, launch the corresponding exe of each side of the cube
QuickDial - the quick dialer side
MediaHubMini - the Music, Photo, Video side
APLauncher - the default 2x3 application launcher side
CustAPLauncher - the second application launcher side, work in same way as APLauncher

Theoretically there is no limitation on how the 3 or 4 sides are sorted, because they're simply driven by reg. After all, here i purpose "hardcode" the name so that our theme packs (.brn & .reg) can be shared without a big file renaming process:

Side A = QuickDial
Side B = MediaHubMini
Side C = APLauncher
Side D = CustAPLauncher

reading the reg key, i guess Biotouch can handle many more sides, even though i doubt how many people would be willing to flip through a lot of sides. :D

(B) Involved image files

before talking about the image files, must first mention the troublesome "ColorSkin" reg key which is not used on Elf and Vogue, making many cool apps and themes for Elf and Vogue not working on Nike.

in below, {c} = the reg key value for [HKLM\Software\HTC\ColorSkin]Color, which seems to carry a default value of "Blue". all necessary image files must be placed under your \Windows\ directory. no full path is allowed in reg key values. e.g. if your ColorSkin = "Blue", "{c}D0.brn" below means the file "\Window\BlueD0.brn"

I do NOT recommend change in the ColorSkin value. the prob is, the "Blue" prefix is not only used in cube files, but also many other places like the action screen and maybe many more. unless you're very confident that you've created the whole set, better not to modify the key value. fyi, i found 75 .brn and 339 .png under \Windows\ starting with "blue" in my device with a 3-sided cube.

Tips: you can use brnconvert.exe (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1687493&postcount=463) to convert your own 24-bit .bmp to .brn

(B1) Image files for Biotouch

Theoretically there is no limitation on names of the .brn files, because all are controlled by the combined set of "Cube*" and "Path*" keys. yet, I'd like to follow the file names used in the default cube shipped with the device for simplicity.

{c}A0.brn, {c}A1.brn, .., {c}A5.brn = transition from the side A to side B
{c}B0.brn, {c}B1.brn, .., {c}B5.brn = transition from the side B to side C
{c}C0.brn, {c}C1.brn, .., {c}C5.brn = transition from the side C to side D (if 4-sided) or side A (if 3-sided)
{c}D0.brn, {c}D1.brn, .., {c}D5.brn = transition from the side D to side A

Remarks: there are only 4 transition states in Elf, while 6 in Vogue and Nike

{c}X01.brn, {c}X02.brn, .., {c}X05.brn = transition of pulling up/down side X (where X = A, B, C or D)

Remarks: there are only 3 transition states in Elf, while 5 in Vogue and Nike

(B2) Image files for QuickDial

no big difference from Elf / Vogue. just QD_01.png .. QD_04.png not required.

(B3) Image files for MediaHubMini

the same set files as in Elf. yet, all MH_xx.brn and MH_xx_HL.brn must carry the {c} prefix.

(B4) APLauncher, CustAPLauncher, and more launchers

APLauncher.exe and CustAPLauncher are identical, just reading from two different reg keys to get their corresponding settings:

[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\APLauncher]
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\CustAPLauncher]

We can duplicate APLauncher.exe to be called by Biotouch.exe to add even more launcher sides to the cube. the corresponding reg key will be same as the .exe.
e.g., if we create a copy named APLauncher2.exe, its corresponding registry key will be:
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\APLauncher2]
of course, will need additional keys under "Biotouch" reg key to tell how biotouch.exe does the animation and call out the additional launchers.

in this level we have the "Background" string value, without path and ColorSkin, to tell the background image of the launcher. by default, they are "AL_Bkgd.brn" and "CAL_Bkgd.brn", referring to \Windows\BlueAL_Bkgd.brn and \Windows\BlueCAL_Bkgd.brn

AL/CAL Buttons

theoretically there is no limit in how many buttons on one side. everything driven by reg:

each button defined by one [AppN] child key, starting from 0. e.g, an AL with 2x3 buttons will have App0-App5, 3x3 buttons will have App0-App8.

for each [AppN] key:

position and size determined by the "xPos", "yPos", "Height" and "Width" values.

Name = {caption shown on 4th side}
Path = {target application to call, in full path}
Param = {parameter to the target application}

IconPath and IconPressPath = images of button and pressed button
must NOT carry file path and ColorSkin. e.g. should specify "AL_ie.brn" to refer to \Windows\BlueAL_ie.brn (assume colorskin=blue)

FontSize = font size of captioned, observed for CAL only but not for AL

[pp18]

About newly added .reg files

[biotouch-3side.reg]
set cube to 3 sides only, i.e. sides A, B & C as said in the previous post.

[biotouch-3side-sprint-touch.reg]
same as biotouch-3side.reg, but tailored for Sprint Touch (Vogue), where absolute path of the .brn files is added.

Notes about devices shipped with 4 sides already:
Please check your [HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\Biotouch] App3 and App4. you may have side C as CAL while side D as AL (!). to disable the CAL side, you'll need to move all AL side's brn files from {color}D*.brn to {color}C*.brn after importing this .reg. otherwise, you'll see CAL imags on AL during animation :P

[added 18 Dec 2007] thanks to eddienghs who provided the info. in his Touch Dual pre-installed with 4-sided cube, BlueC*.brn are really about AL instead of CAL, though App3 is CAL :) when 4-sided cube is used, the Path* reg keys are pointing to another set. for devices of this case, simply import biotouch-3side.reg will hide the CAL side and no extra file copying action is required.


[biotouch-4side.reg]
set cube to 4 sides, i.e. sides A, B, C & D as said in the previous post.


[sample-3x3-CAL.reg]
defined a 3x3 CAL, with sample key values for App0-App8, with position as:
0..1..2
3..4..5
6..7..8
suggested size of buttons = 80x80

[sample-3x4-CAL.reg]
defined a 3x4 CAL, with sample key values for App0-App8, with position as:
0..1..2
3..4..5
6..7..8
9..10..11
suggested size of buttons = 80x80

------------------------------------

NOTE: this pack expects your colorskin = Blue

if you want a quick trial with biotouch-4side.reg + sample-3x3-CAL.reg and don't mind a super-ugly blank face, you can leave the dummy shortcuts as-is and use the dummy .brn files in "placeholder brn.zip". that is,

1. extract all files from "biotouch-4side_reg.zip", "sample-3x3-CAL_reg.zip" and "placeholder brn.zip" into your micro-sd card
2. copy extracted *.brn to your \Windows\
3. import biotouch-4side.reg and sample-3x3-CAL.reg using a regedit tool such as memmaid, resco regedit or taskmgr regedit
4. soft reset (or, if you hv task manager tool, you can simply kill biotouch.exe and custaplauncher.exe if they're running)

[pp18]

thanks to all cube designers!

1. iCube by Musicman247 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1735429#post1735429):
http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee199/musicman247/iCubeRotate-1.gif

2. Cube of Life by ahmad.yousry (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=356908)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=64719&d=1199601102

3. beagle-cube by pp18 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1825441&postcount=93)
http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh210/pp18_hk/beagle-cube.gif

4. blank original-HTC-like 3x3 cusAP side with rotating cube transaction by xiufoong:
- left/right (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=2115054&postcount=137)
- up/down (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=2121467&postcount=139)
- installation cab compiled by pp18 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=2228874&postcount=151)

[alexnalexn]

i created a set to launch IE to go to certain web page operated by 3 HK. here's 4th side face (shortcut definition reg & button .brn files).

(this set is for temp test use and i'll delete the attachment a couple days later due to copyright concern)

pp18, I'm using 3 HK too, should I simply place all the reg & brn files fm "4side-cube-3hk.zip" under \Windows, then the 4th side will be properly working ?

[pp18]

first of all, thanks a lot for your help in testing.

pp18, I'm using 3 HK too, should I simply place all the reg & brn files fm "4side-cube-3hk.zip" under \Windows, then the 4th side will be properly working ?

no. the steps are:

1a. extract all files from 4side-cube-3hk.zip into your micro-sd card
1b. extract BlueD1-5.brn and BlueD01-05.brn from "placeholder brn.zip" into same directory (totally 10 files, do not overwrite BlueD0.brn)
2. copy *.brn to your \Windows\
3. import 4side-cube-3hk.reg using a regedit tool such as memmaid, resco regedit or taskmgr regedit

looking forward to your testing result. ;)

p.s.: to play safe, better do a backup before being a guinea pig :D

[alexnalexn]

first of all, thanks a lot for your help in testing.



no. the steps are:

1. extract all files into your micro-sd card
2. copy *.brn to your \Windows\
3. import 4side-cube-3hk.reg using a regedit tool such as memmaid, resco regedit or taskmgr regedit

looking forward to your testing result. ;)

p.s.: to play safe, better do a backup before being a guinea pig :D


Tried, success ! :)
but I find the 4th side is without flowing left animation.
When I flow the 4th side to the left,
it will disappear and show the favorite contactors immediately...
how can I amend the cube action and make it flowing as normal,
i.e. flowing left & right between cube sides, and up & down for launch & close the cube .. ?
:confused:

[pp18]

Tried, success ! :)
but I find the 4th side is without flowing left animation.
When I flow the 4th side to the left,
it will disappear and show the favorite contactors immediately...
how can I amend the cube action and make it flowing as normal,
i.e. flowing left & right between cube sides, and up & down for launch & close the cube .. ?
:confused:

sorry. my fault. :(
a missing step in my last reply. i forgot that the second zip is a partial set. step 1b added back.

[bram_smulders]

Hey guys,

i'm trying to get this working on the ELF but i need some stuff to achieve that.

I need from the 4 sided touch duals:

1. The complete registry
2. ALL the exe files used by the cube eg. CustAPLauncher.exe, mediahubmini.exe, applauncher.exe etc.
3. ALL the brn files

Can please someone post them, so we can make this 4 sided cube for every device??

thanks in advance

gr. bram

[bram_smulders]

Wich is the exact regsetting of the colorskin key?
Can you please tell me that?

[carlosp_uk]

Hi pp18

Great work! I'm watching this with interest as I hope to expand 'Touch Settings' for easy customisation of the 4th cube side.

Carlos

[pp18]

Wich is the exact regsetting of the colorskin key?
Can you please tell me that?

sample value:

[HKLM\Software\HTC\ColorSkin]
"Color" = "Blue"

[Musicman247]

I would like to invite you all to try the iCube and tell me what happens with the Touch Dual. From all I have seen of your registry values they seem exactly the same as the Sprint Touch. If you encounter problems, please let me know. Go to post #22 for an updated version that should work on the Dual!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1734115&postcount=22

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee199/musicman247/iCubeRotate-1.gif

[bram_smulders]

sample value:

[HKLM\Software\HTC\ColorSkin]
"Color" = "Blue"

many thanks, i'll get on with developing!:)

[mkhattab]

sorry. my fault. :(
a missing step in my last reply. i forgot that the second zip is a partial set. step 1b added back.

Success!
It turns out I did actually have the CustAPLauncher.exe file and it was hidden- thanks bram_smulders for that tip...
The 4th side of the cube is working perfectly on my Touch Dual.
I'm only wondering why HTC hid this and why we had to go about editing the registry and making image files to get it to work...
I also can't help but wonder what else is hidden :cool:

[Swiftblade]

Success!
It turns out I did actually have the CustAPLauncher.exe file and it was hidden- thanks bram_smulders for that tip...
The 4th side of the cube is working perfectly on my Touch Dual.
I'm only wondering why HTC hid this and why we had to go about editing the registry and making image files to get it to work...
I also can't help but wonder what else is hidden :cool:

Hey mkhattab,

Care to show some screenshots of the 4th side. Vogue's forum got a 4th side working but with their own create image files. Yours is the HTC original's image files.. Very curious to known. Cheers...

[bram_smulders]

Hey mkhattab,

Care to show some screenshots of the 4th side. Vogue's forum got a 4th side working but with their own create image files. Yours is the HTC original's image files.. Very curious to known. Cheers...

I've got a screenshot of one of the brn files in my surface thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1732070&postcount=112

gr. bram

[Swiftblade]

I've got a screenshot of one of the brn files in my surface thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1732070&postcount=112

gr. bram

Thanks bram... that original brn files look neat. Here is the screenshot of what Musicman247 over at Vogue's forum did.

http://www.yourhalo3vids.com/images/4thSideOnly.gif

[Protac]

Installed the 3hk reg, and it worked great. I then tried to replace the icons by making new ones with Brn Converter from the Elf forum, but the icons are just blank. Any special trick to make icons for Nike?

Edit: Doh, fixed it. I forgot to add Blue*****.brn to the filename!

[BSmart]

I would like to invite you all to try the iCube and tell me what happens with the Touch Dual. From all I have seen of your registry values they seem exactly the same as the Sprint Touch. If you encounter problems, please let me know.

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee199/musicman247/iCubeRotate-1.gif


Tried to install it.. but failed to install. Too bad.. looks nice!

[daddypool]

I would like to invite you all to try the iCube and tell me what happens with the Touch Dual. From all I have seen of your registry values they seem exactly the same as the Sprint Touch. If you encounter problems, please let me know.

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee199/musicman247/iCubeRotate-1.gif

hi Musicman,
i could install it..after soft-reset..it shows the 4 icons on the quickdial photo page, but no icons on every other pages. it shows all text,switches to next page, but without animation....

[Musicman247]

hi Musicman,
i could install it..after soft-reset..it shows the 4 icons on the quickdial photo page, but no icons on every other pages. it shows all text,switches to next page, but without animation....

Excellent! That's exactly what I thought would happen! I should have a working CAB within the hour!

[Musicman247]

Okay, this should work. Please uninstall any other Cube customizations you may have before installing this.

[pp18]

hi Musicman,
i could install it..after soft-reset..it shows the 4 icons on the quickdial photo page, but no icons on every other pages. it shows all text,switches to next page, but without animation....

hi daddypool, were you testing on Touch Dual? really can properly see all the 4 sides, but just without animations? thanks.

[Musicman247]

Any comments on the new CAB? 8 of you have tried it....

[pp18]

@Musicman247
I only modified _setup.xml while any other files inside the cab was not touched.

@all
here's a new cab for all's trial. all credits and ownership still belong to Musicman247

pre-requisite:
This pack expects your colorskin = Blue

note:
as i do not have most programs associated with the app launcher buttons, i couldn't test them and simply leave it as what Musicman247 has defined in the original pack. i only modified those for pre-installed software (e.g. IE, Word, Excel, Task, HTC Album) to suit the Touch Dual path.

testing result will be most welcomed. :)

[17 Dec] IMPORTANT NOTICE: after installing this cab, the "3side-cube.reg" i post earlier canNOT hide the 4th side properly. you can use "biotouch-3side.reg" to show only the first 3 sides of iCube, but this method will make the transition C=>A looks like D=>A.

[mkhattab]

@Musicman247
I only modified _setup.xml while any other files inside the cab was not touched.

@all
here's a new cab for all's trial. all credits and ownership still belong to Musicman247

pre-requisite:
This pack expects your colorskin = Blue

note:
as i do not have most programs associated with the app launcher buttons, i couldn't test them and simply leave it as what Musicman247 has defined in the original pack. i only modified those for pre-installed software (e.g. IE, Word, Excel, Task, HTC Album) to suit the Touch Dual path.

testing result will be most welcomed. :)

Tried it on my Touch Duak and it works perfectly- very fast and the transition effects are quite smooth.
Excellent work pp18 and Musicman247

[daddypool]

Tried it on my Touch Duak and it works perfectly- very fast and the transition effects are quite smooth.
Excellent work pp18 and Musicman247

yep..it works like a charm!..only thing is i have no time to go tweak it yet..im leaving it as it is for now..& try not to press the streaming media,etc...and programs that i havent installed. all we do is edit the parameters & path right?

i wish we can have a compilation of "icons"...or BRN etc...to replace some with our own...havent had time to read up more yet..hopefully this weekend.

[Musicman247]

Woo hoo! Way to go pp18! I had no idea you had to put "Blue" in front of all the image names. Thank you so much for your help!

[daddypool]

u guys r geniuses...

[pp18]

so happy to know that it works. so now, seems i've really found the way to customize the cube of touch dual. i'll try to find time to edit the first post and compile some clean .reg template for great them creator's, like Musicman247, reference. :)

[pp18]

Woo hoo! Way to go pp18! I had no idea you had to put "Blue" in front of all the image names. Thank you so much for your help!

for your reference, quick summary on changes i made:

1. prepend "Blue" (i.e. the colorskin) to all .brn files
2. remove path "\Windows\" from targets to all .brn files
3. remove QD_01-04.png as they're not used in Touch Dual
4. add key to define name of background .brn for APLauncher
5. try to avoid using .lnk in app launcher targets as they may not exist (and i encountered error when trying to launch Word and Excel)
6. remove "Handle" reg key as it is supposed to be generated by CustAPLauncher.exe
7. remove reg key for CustAPLauncher version no.

[pp18]

yep..it works like a charm!..only thing is i have no time to go tweak it yet..im leaving it as it is for now..& try not to press the streaming media,etc...and programs that i havent installed. all we do is edit the parameters & path right?


yup. pls refer to
(B4) APLauncher & CustAPLauncher - for each [AppN] key in post #1 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1730049#post1730049) for details

[Blob8me]

Thanks Guys.... installed and works like a dream :)

[pp18]

post #1-3 on page 1 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=351142&page=1) edited to summarize findings.
reg for 3side=>4side and 4side=>3side uploaded.
feedback will be most helpful.
thanks.

[kockie]

Feedback? Easy...

JUST GREAT!! Thx alot, working like a charme.

[dabs]

@pp18

Brilliant work mate, responds quicker and looks smoother than the HTC stock one IMO. The 4th side makes a big difference.

Thanks for putting in the time and effort to make this..

Now I just need to find enough apps to fill all the spaces in the launchers :)

[Merlin_reloaded]

but prefix a HOWTO: on the thread title, saves a lot of time.

Regards,
Merlin

[pp18]

but prefix a HOWTO: on the thread title, saves a lot of time.
Regards,
Merlin

gd suggestion, Merlin. done :)

[BSmart]

Hi,

I installed the iCube.CAB but unfortunately only my dailer shows images.
The other cubesides only show text.
Also There is no animation when I change the cubesides..

What did I do wrong?

ps. I had the 4th side alreay activivated using the 4side-cube-3hk.reg from a post earlier (along with copying several .brn files)

[Musicman247]

You probably should have un-installed any previous Cube customizations before installing the iCube. Also, make sure you install the iCube.cab that was posted by pp18, not by me.

[pp18]

the symtom looks like you used the wrong cab. pls refer to the one in post #25 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1735429#post1735429). this cab should be able to overwrite the one in 4side-cube-3hk.reg and doesn't require an uninstallation beforehand.

[bkeaver]

anyone have the stock HTC 4 side cube settings? if so can you pass them to me. my dual only has the 3 sided cube.

[Musicman247]

Have you checked the second post? It's already there.

[BSmart]

the symtom looks like you used the wrong cab. pls refer to the one in post #25 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1735429#post1735429). this cab should be able to overwrite the one in 4side-cube-3hk.reg and doesn't require an uninstallation beforehand.

Thank you.. works fine now!
Next step.. custimizing the 'buttons'
Regards

[gege62]

Is possible to have the new 6 side cube?

[YEYE77]

Hi,

I tried to enable the 4th side on my dual with the files in the second post of this thread but unfortunatly the 4 side show no icons and the transition to switch to the 4th side don't work either. Am I missing something?

(by the way I copied and renamde the APLauncher.exe file in order to get the CustAPLaucher.exe file...)

Thanks for your help

[pp18]

Is possible to have the new 6 side cube?

as said in post #1, theoretically Biotouch.exe supports unlimited number of sides in the "cube". yet, will need separate .exe to let it call. like the 3rd and 4th sides, we need 2 .exe (aplauncher.exe and custaplauncher.exe) so that they would read from different registry keys to display different set of shortcut icons. if you want to add extra sides working like aplauncher.exe, you'll need to create extra similar .exe.

after all, personally, i'd prefer musicman247's solution -- more icons on one side, rather than having more sides. it may be a bit troublesome to flip through so many sides... it makes me doubt whether this would still be "short" cut. :P

[pp18]

Hi,

I tried to enable the 4th side on my dual with the files in the second post of this thread but unfortunatly the 4 side show no icons and the transition to switch to the 4th side don't work either. Am I missing something?

(by the way I copied and renamde the APLauncher.exe file in order to get the CustAPLaucher.exe file...)

Thanks for your help

1. copy and rename aplauncher.exe to custaplauncher.exe will NOT work. r u using a Touch Dual?

2. biotouch-4side.reg is only to enable the 4th side, but not the full set. you'll need all necessary .brn files as describe in post #1. if you want a quick try and don't mind ugly plain image for this try, you can use those .brn in "placeholder brn.zip". combining with biotouch-4side.reg, it'll give a blank 4th sides with only shortcut app title but no icon.

[YEYE77]

1. copy and rename aplauncher.exe to custaplauncher.exe will NOT work. r u using a Touch Dual?

2. biotouch-4side.reg is only to enable the 4th side, but not the full set. you'll need all necessary .brn files as describe in post #1. if you want a quick try and don't mind ugly plain image for this try, you can use those .brn in "placeholder brn.zip". combining with biotouch-4side.reg, it'll give a blank 4th sides with only shortcut app title but no icon.

Hi pp18, thanks for your answer.

1. I'm using the touch dual. Where can I get the CustAPLaucher file?

2. is there a way to get the brn files from the original 4th side cube from HTC? (I heard some touch dual do have the 4th side automatically enabled...)

[petio92]

i don't find "4side-cube-3hk.reg"

the step are good in the third post now?

[petio92]

i have the 4th side but i have a problem:
my cube turn normaly for the first ,second and third side but when i turn to the 4th it doesn'turn normaly do you know why, i don t know how to explain how it turn exactly in english because i'm french :o .

[petio92]

in fact i have the same problem than alexnalexn (first page)
but i don't understund why i don t understund how he manage to have the good flow for the 4th side after that problem

[petio92]

ok now i manage to ha the 4th side , i have 9 box on it and i can see the earth in the center box but all the other are blank so how to have something in those box?

[petio92]

yeahhh i have shortcut and title now :D
but can we have some pics with title? and can we chose what we want to put on those box, for exemple games or other tings?
sorry for all my post and sorry for my english it was difficult to me to understand how to have the 4th side in english.
thanks for the work!!

[pp18]

i don't find "4side-cube-3hk.reg"
the step are good in the third post now?

sorry for this. 4side-cube-3hk.reg was in a temp testing set and already removed. i've just edited post #2 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1730054#post1730054) to include steps on quick trial with the blank 4th side

[pp18]

yeahhh i have shortcut and title now :D
but can we have some pics with title? and can we chose what we want to put on those box, for exemple games or other tings?
sorry for all my post and sorry for my english it was difficult to me to understand how to have the 4th side in english.
thanks for the work!!

to choose which program to be called by each button, you need to edit the Name, Path and Param registry keys for the concerned button.

to use your custom icon for each button, you need to edit the IconPath and IconPressPath registry keys for the concerned button, and copy your custom icons (in .brn format) to \Windows\.

please see "(B) Involved image files" in post #1 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=1730049#post1730049) for details.

p.s.: my English is not much better than you. I'm a Chinese. :)

[pp18]

Hi pp18, thanks for your answer.
1. I'm using the touch dual. Where can I get the CustAPLaucher file?

oops. you mean no \Windows\CustAPLauncher.exe shipped with your Touch Dual? um... may i know your biotouch version, which can be found under the [HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch]"BioTouch Ver" registry key?

2. is there a way to get the brn files from the original 4th side cube from HTC? (I heard some touch dual do have the 4th side automatically enabled...)

i've seen only those .brn files on a Hong Kong device. all the buttons are specific to one specific network operator here, which means useless to customers of other network operators or in other locations. i don't know whether any location around the world would have a copy of general buttons on the 4th side. :(

[petio92]

i think i have no understund how to put pics in the 4th side of the cube,
i understand that i must to have pics ion .brn but i don't understund how to have pics in brn and where to put those...
and i don't understand how to customize the shortcut if i wan't to call an other thing thanthings you have put.
it seem to be diffucult and more in english for me:D

[pp18]

to create a .brn pic:
1. create pic in 24-bit .bmp format
2. use brnconvert.exe (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1687493&postcount=463) to convert it into .brn format

the .brn filename must start with "Blue" (i.e. your ColorSkin), e.g. BlueIE.brn, BlueMyGame.brn, and must be placed in \Windows\

well, maybe you can tell me the program you want to call (give me the fullpath of the target .exe and necessary calling parameter) and your custom iicon (size=80x80). maybe i can produce a sample for your reference.

[YEYE77]

oops. you mean no \Windows\CustAPLauncher.exe shipped with your Touch Dual? um... may i know your biotouch version, which can be found under the [HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch]"BioTouch Ver" registry key?

yes I mean CustAPLaucher.exe :-) version is 2.0.28555

[ohyeahar]

hey guys, i'm still a noob when it comes to the customization of my phone. have learned a lot so far from reading this forum. Anyway, how can I modify the profile icons of the HTC Home plugin? ie, the icons for normal, silent, vibrate, automatic.

[pp18]

hey guys, i'm still a noob when it comes to the customization of my phone. have learned a lot so far from reading this forum. Anyway, how can I modify the profile icons of the HTC Home plugin? ie, the icons for normal, silent, vibrate, automatic.

overwrite \Windows\hh_profile_*.png

[pp18]

@YEYE77
pls check private message

[pp18]

Is possible to have the new 6 side cube?

thanks to YEYE77 for pointing out that APLauncher.exe and CustAPLauncher.exe are in fact just the same.

just tried on Touch Dual and verified that we can duplicate APLauncher.exe to become any additional number of launcher sides in the cube. the corresponding reg key will simply be same as the .exe.

e.g., if we create a copy named APLauncher2.exe, its corresponding registry key will be:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\HTC\Biotouch\APLaunche r2]
we can then define our custom number of buttons by adding child App0-N keys as on the APLauncher side.

(above added to post #1)

[pp18]

1. I'm using the touch dual. Where can I get the CustAPLaucher file?


as you pointed out, yes we can simply duplicate APLauncher.exe to create CustAPLauncher.exe. just place it in \Windows\ as well. :)

[Ko0ka]

Hi guys,

Just installed the iCube cab file and it works great !
Though I saw a tiny "bug" : When sliding to or off the MediaHub Side, the animation doesn't show the 3 texts "Music", "Photos" and "Streaming Media", which are the default on this theme, but "iCube" instead of each text...

Ok U only see that for like 1/10000000 second, but still ^^

Keep up the good work boys !

[TheOnlyDidi]

Hello,

I´ve also installed the iCube cap and started to change the icons, programs, etc. in the registry. Works perfect but of course the animations do not fit. Which grafic tools do you recommend to develop the bmp for the animations?

BR
Didi

[pp18]

Hi guys,
Though I saw a tiny "bug" : When sliding to or off the MediaHub Side, the animation doesn't show the 3 texts "Music", "Photos" and "Streaming Media", which are the default on this theme, but "iCube" instead of each text...
Ok U only see that for like 1/10000000 second, but still ^^


hehe... i guess Musicman purposely designed it like that, as the "iCube" text is part of the images. :)

[pp18]

Hello,
I´ve also installed the iCube cap and started to change the icons, programs, etc. in the registry. Works perfect but of course the animations do not fit. Which grafic tools do you recommend to develop the bmp for the animations?
BR
Didi

i'm of beginning level in graphics creation, and simply used GIMP "map object" feature to create the "ball" as shown in post #3. you may want to consult Musicman how he created the cool iCube animation.

[kuanyew]

Thanks to experts in this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=325424) of the Elf forum. Obviously most info below are evolved from it. Hence, i'm not going to repeat the same things here.

[Introduction]
Some Touch Dual is shipped with a 4-side cube while some with 3 sides only. In fact both are supported by Touch Dual and it's just a matter of registry settings.

will split the write-up into 3 posts.

#1 - briefly describe the concerned reg keys and files
#2 - sample .reg for controlling number of sides, animations, and the app launchers
#3 - links to packaged themes attached to this thread

[Usage Notes]

1. You must have a Touch Dual (Nike). Surely the descriptions and reg won't work on Touch (Elf) or Sprint Touch (Vogue), as some registry settings are different. Take your own risk if you try on other versions of the TouchFlo cube.

2. You need to have \Windows\CustAPLauncher.exe shipped with your Touch Dual, instead of a version you got from other sources.


[About the relevant regs and files]

(A) Involved exe
Biotouch - play the up-down animation, play the left-right animation, launch the corresponding exe of each side of the cube
QuickDial - the quick dialer side
MediaHubMini - the Music, Photo, Video side
APLauncher - the default 2x3 application launcher side
CustAPLauncher - the second application launcher side, work in same way as APLauncher

Theoretically there is no limitation on how the 3 or 4 sides are sorted, because they're simply driven by reg. After all, here i purpose "hardcode" the name so that our theme packs (.brn & .reg) can be shared without a big file renaming process:

Side A = QuickDial
Side B = MediaHubMini
Side C = APLauncher
Side D = CustAPLauncher

reading the reg key, i guess Biotouch can handle many more sides, even though i doubt how many people would be willing to flip through a lot of sides. :D

(B) Involved image files

before talking about the image files, must first mention the troublesome "ColorSkin" reg key which is not used on Elf and Vogue, making many cool apps and themes for Elf and Vogue not working on Nike.

in below, {c} = the reg key value for [HKLM\Software\HTC\ColorSkin]Color, which seems to carry a default value of "Blue". all necessary image files must be placed under your \Windows\ directory. no full path is allowed in reg key values. e.g. if your ColorSkin = "Blue", "{c}D0.brn" below means the file "\Window\BlueD0.brn"

I do NOT recommend change in the ColorSkin value. the prob is, the "Blue" prefix is not only used in cube files, but also many other places like the action screen and maybe many more. unless you're very confident that you've created the whole set, better not to modify the key value. fyi, i found 75 .brn and 339 .png under \Windows\ starting with "blue" in my device with a 3-sided cube.

Tips: you can use brnconvert.exe (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1687493&postcount=463) to convert your own 24-bit .bmp to .brn

(B1) Image files for Biotouch

Theoretically there is no limitation on names of the .brn files, because all are controlled by the combined set of "Cube*" and "Path*" keys. yet, I'd like to follow the file names used in the default cube shipped with the device for simplicity.

{c}A0.brn, {c}A1.brn, .., {c}A5.brn = transition from the side A to side B
{c}B0.brn, {c}B1.brn, .., {c}B5.brn = transition from the side B to side C
{c}C0.brn, {c}C1.brn, .., {c}C5.brn = transition from the side C to side D (if 4-sided) or side A (if 3-sided)
{c}D0.brn, {c}D1.brn, .., {c}D5.brn = transition from the side D to side A

Remarks: there are only 4 transition states in Elf, while 6 in Vogue and Nike

{c}X01.brn, {c}X02.brn, .., {c}X05.brn = transition of pulling up/down side X (where X = A, B, C or D)

Remarks: there are only 3 transition states in Elf, while 5 in Vogue and Nike

(B2) Image files for QuickDial

no big difference from Elf / Vogue. just QD_01.png .. QD_04.png not required.

(B3) Image files for MediaHubMini

the same set files as in Elf. yet, all MH_xx.brn and MH_xx_HL.brn must carry the {c} prefix.

(B4) APLauncher, CustAPLauncher, and more launchers

APLauncher.exe and CustAPLauncher are identical, just reading from two different reg keys to get their corresponding settings:

[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\APLauncher]
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\CustAPLauncher]

We can duplicate APLauncher.exe to be called by Biotouch.exe to add even more launcher sides to the cube. the corresponding reg key will be same as the .exe.
e.g., if we create a copy named APLauncher2.exe, its corresponding registry key will be:
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\APLauncher2]
of course, will need additional keys under "Biotouch" reg key to tell how biotouch.exe does the animation and call out the additional launchers.

in this level we have the "Background" string value, without path and ColorSkin, to tell the background image of the launcher. by default, they are "AL_Bkgd.brn" and "CAL_Bkgd.brn", referring to \Windows\BlueAL_Bkgd.brn and \Windows\BlueCAL_Bkgd.brn

AL/CAL Buttons

theoretically there is no limit in how many buttons on one side. everything driven by reg:

each button defined by one [AppN] child key, starting from 0. e.g, an AL with 2x3 buttons will have App0-App5, 3x3 buttons will have App0-App8.

for each [AppN] key:

position and size determined by the "xPos", "yPos", "Height" and "Width" values.

Name = {caption shown on 4th side}
Path = {target application to call, in full path}
Param = {parameter to the target application}

IconPath and IconPressPath = images of button and pressed button
must NOT carry file path and ColorSkin. e.g. should specify "AL_ie.brn" to refer to \Windows\BlueAL_ie.brn (assume colorskin=blue)

FontSize = font size of captioned, observed for CAL only but not for AL
How do i access the regedit tools? Is it a program in the device itself or do i have to download it from external sources?

[pp18]

How do i access the regedit tools? Is it a program in the device itself or do i have to download it from external sources?

you need to install one. e.g. TaskMgr, PHM Registry Editor, Resco Registry, MemMaid... and many more can be found through google

[themasterfk]

is there some other programs like htc customizer or biotouch to change the appearance of the cube.

which one is the easiest and the best program??

[swingover]

hi to everyone,
Before all i'm new WM user and so i don't understand WM world well.

1_ Where can i find the .reg files? on \windows or \windows\setup or which other path...
2_ I can't manage nothing about the files with native File Explorer. Where can i use as alternative program at File Explorer? (something like Fexplorer on Symbian...)
3_ Why the native "Search" feature doesn't find nothing ...
4_ There are some wizard to customize the GUI of WM6, Today menu and Touch Flo Gui?
Thancks a lot

[pp18]

is there some other programs like htc customizer or biotouch to change the appearance of the cube.
which one is the easiest and the best program??

see Touch Settings from carlos:
http://ww2.fatattitude.com/software/software-item.aspx?appid=10

for Touch Dual you may try v1.29e, but pls note that it is still in beta version and not yet able to customize as free as you modify corresponding registry keys manually.

[pp18]

hi to everyone,
Before all i'm new WM user and so i don't understand WM world well.
1_ Where can i find the .reg files? on \windows or \windows\setup or which other path...
2_ I can't manage nothing about the files with native File Explorer. Where can i use as alternative program at File Explorer? (something like Fexplorer on Symbian...)
3_ Why the native "Search" feature doesn't find nothing ...
4_ There are some wizard to customize the GUI of WM6, Today menu and Touch Flo Gui?
Thancks a lot

1. why do you need .reg files? .reg files are transient files for exporting/importing registry values and normally not shipped with your device.
2. try Resco Explorer
3. system files are hidden?
4a. Today menu -- Start | Settings | Personal | Today | Items
4b. TouchFLO is a group. which particular feature of TouchFLO you want to customize?

[swingover]

1. why do you need .reg files? .reg files are transient files for exporting/importing registry values and normally not shipped with your device.

... because at first in this topic it said to modify also the relative files '.reg' as HKEY/.../.../... to customize the HTC cube.

[pp18]

... because at first in this topic it said to modify also the relative files '.reg' as HKEY/.../.../... to customize the HTC cube.

"registry keys" mentioned in first post refers to the registry database. "HKLM/.../..." refers to path in the registry database. you'll need a registry editor tool (e.g. TaskMgr, Resco Registry, MemMaid, PHMRegedit) in order to access the registry keys.

[swingover]

"registry keys" mentioned in first post refers to the registry database. "HKLM/.../..." refers to path in the registry database. you'll need a registry editor tool (e.g. TaskMgr, Resco Registry, MemMaid, PHMRegedit) in order to access the registry keys.

Thanks very much for your news about the reg. file
is Resco explorer freeware? Can you give me any link where i can download?
Hi pp18:)

[pp18]

Thanks very much for your news about the reg. file
is Resco explorer freeware? Can you give me any link where i can download?
Hi pp18:)

resco explorer is not free.

for freeware, you may try:
PHM Registry Editor (http://www.phm.lu/Products/PocketPC/RegEdit/)
TaskMgr (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=280104)

[hochgattererjohann]

After reading your information I changed the iCube from musicman to a 6 sided cube for german version of htc elf.

Questions:
1) Is it possibele to make a second side for quickdial as same as with aplauncher?

2) How can I make a cab for installation?

thanks for reply

[eyecrispy]

pp18, do you have a cab for your peanuts cube? i think it's awesome!

[ahmad.yousry]

Any reviews on the cube of life people ???

hehe

[sgl9x]

I wonder if this would work for the Polaris (Touch Cruise).
Seems to have a lot of the same registry keys.

[hochgattererjohann]

HI!
Sorry the shit XDA-Developers site do not let me do uploads.

Do have someone such infos for me. I will upload the files if the system is ready again.

[pp18]

pp18, do you have a cab for your peanuts cube? i think it's awesome!

i haven't created one and only have the raw files. i can create one later when i have time. yet, the 4th side is specific to the network operator i'm using. do you really want the 4-sided cube but you need to customize the 4th side (hopefully using a later version of Touch Settings)? or, you want a 3-sided one (without the 2nd aplauncher)?

[pp18]

I wonder if this would work for the Polaris (Touch Cruise).
Seems to have a lot of the same registry keys.

could you tell us the version of cube of Touch Cruise? it should be in the registry key:
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch]

here's the version number in Touch Dual (asia version):
Biotouch Ver = 2.0.28597
APLauncher = 2.0.29038
MediaHubMini = 2.0.28927
QuickDial = 2.5.28927

if version number near enough, i suppose it should work on Touch Cruise as well. maybe you can have a try with Musicanman247's iCube (of cos, do a full backup for safe before the trial). pls share with us the testing result. :)

[pp18]

Questions:
1) Is it possibele to make a second side for quickdial as same as with aplauncher?

the registry keys for the 9 slots in quickdial is [HKLM\Software\HTC\Contacts]. it doesn't seem to relate to the exe name like in aplauncher. hence i guess the chance is slow. unless somebody tweaks quickdial.exe to clone a copy to read from another registry key, we can't have a 2nd quickdial.


2) How can I make a cab for installation?


Musicman247 introduced this to me, though i haven't given it a try:
http://www.aperitto.com/content/view/14/159/

[swingover]

hi pp18,

i have installed the "Touch Setting" program as you told me and it generally works well, but it doesn't save the modify from APlauncher Session.

At startup of the program a popup window is showed to me with the following message:
"Cannot read exiting setting - is HTC TouchFLO installed?"
Into APlauncher session, the relative icon in not show at upper right corner and when i press the "Save" SWKey other two popup windows is showed:
First-"Could not save APlauncher settings to registry!" add an errors threat list.
Second-"Settings Saved - Reset to activate changes."
So i have done a SWreset, but noone changes has been activated.

I tryied to search the relative reg file with regedit of TaskMgr, but i don't know to use the features of this program...

what can i do?
Thanks


ps: Sorry for my English.

[pp18]

@swingover
which version of Touch Settings did you use? the symtom you mentioned looks like the formal version which supports Elf only (but not for Vogue and Nike). for Touch Dual (aka Nike), v1.29e should be used.

[edited] sorry. wrong info. should need v2.x for Touch Dual. here's the latest beta:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1806091&postcount=347
after all, if u don't want to be guinea-pig, you'd better wait for a stablized version.

[sgl9x]

@pp18

My version of the cube for the Touch Cruise is:

Biotouch Ver - 2.0.29087
MediaHubMini - 2.0.29077
APLauncher - 2.0.29077
QuickDial - 2.5.28927

Looks to be quit different number wise...
There are a lot of similarities though, I could probably go by your work and figure it out.

Thanks for all your work on this

[pp18]

@pp18

My version of the cube for the Touch Cruise is:

Biotouch Ver - 2.0.29087
MediaHubMini - 2.0.29077
APLauncher - 2.0.29077
QuickDial - 2.5.28927

Looks to be quit different number wise...
There are a lot of similarities though, I could probably go by your work and figure it out.

Thanks for all your work on this

well, the version numbers look closed enough to me. normally only the first 2 parts really make difference while the last part normally due to bug fixes. fyi, the last part can be different even on Touch Dual euro version vs asia version. so i guess worth a try. :D

[swingover]

@swingover
which version of Touch Settings did you use? the symtom you mentioned looks like the formal version which supports Elf only (but not for Vogue and Nike). for Touch Dual (aka Nike), v1.29e should be used.

[edited] sorry. wrong info. should need v2.x for Touch Dual. here's the latest beta:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=1806091&postcount=347
after all, if u don't want to be guinea-pig, you'd better wait for a stablized version.

In fact i think it's so. The Touch Setting version is 1.22 !!
Into link "...attitude..." it is not always clear & sharp which Touch model.
I hope to not have to reset my Touch dual because I hate to reinstall every program!!
By the way, how can i modify one reg file with Regedit of TaskManager?
When i found a reg file, i don't know what i have to press to modify this.
Where can i found any tech manual about ppc world?
Thanks :)

[pp18]

due to encouragement from eyecrispy, i compiled this cab for sharing with other beagle lovers:

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh210/pp18_hk/beagle-cube.gif http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh210/pp18_hk/beagle-as.jpg

prerequisite: your ColorSkin must be Blue (i.e. the default scheme)

Post-installation Notes:

1. due to limitations in the cab creator program, need to import "beagle-cube-fix-SMS.reg" after installation in order to fix the shortcut to launch the Pocket Outlook SMS/MMS Inbox (top-right corner of AL)

2. the CAL side are all IE bookmarks (i hate the small bookmark text in PIE, which forces me to use nail or take out the stylus). most of my bookmarks are specific to the content page hosted on 3 HK

(a) for users of other network, you can disable the CAL side by importing "beagle-cube-disable-CAL.reg"

(b) for users of 3 HK, pls import "beagle-cube-CAL-3hk.reg" to fix a couple known prob that resulted from the limitations of the cab creator program.


meanwhile, those beagle fans like me may also want to change the Action Screen to the same theme. the beagle-as.cab contains image files only. it works only if you didn't swap the positions of the buttons or modified the registry keys to use non-default .brn filenames.

[petreme]

About newly added .reg files

[biotouch-3side.reg]
set cube to 3 sides only, i.e. sides A, B & C as said in the previous post.

Notes about devices shipped with 4 sides already:
Please check your [HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\Biotouch] App3 and App4. you may have side C as CAL while side D as AL (!). to disable the CAL side, you'll need to move all AL side's brn files from {color}D*.brn to {color}C*.brn after importing this .reg. otherwise, you'll see CAL imags on AL during animation :P

[added 18 Dec 2007] thanks to eddienghs who provided the info. in his Touch Dual pre-installed with 4-sided cube, BlueC*.brn are really about AL instead of CAL, though App3 is CAL :) when 4-sided cube is used, the Path* reg keys are pointing to another set. for devices of this case, simply import biotouch-3side.reg will hide the CAL side and no extra file copying action is required.


[biotouch-4side.reg]
set cube to 4 sides, i.e. sides A, B, C & D as said in the previous post.


[sample-3x3-CAL.reg]
defined a 3x3 CAL, with sample key values for App0-App8, with position as:
0..1..2
3..4..5
6..7..8
suggested size of buttons = 80x80

[sample-3x4-CAL.reg]
defined a 3x4 CAL, with sample key values for App0-App8, with position as:
0..1..2
3..4..5
6..7..8
9..10..11
suggested size of buttons = 80x80

------------------------------------

NOTE: this pack expects your colorskin = Blue

if you want a quick trial with biotouch-4side.reg + sample-3x3-CAL.reg and don't mind a super-ugly blank face, you can leave the dummy shortcuts as-is and use the dummy .brn files in "placeholder brn.zip". that is,

1. extract all files from "biotouch-4side_reg.zip", "sample-3x3-CAL_reg.zip" and "placeholder brn.zip" into your micro-sd card
2. copy extracted *.brn to your \Windows\
3. import biotouch-4side.reg and sample-3x3-CAL.reg using a regedit tool such as memmaid, resco regedit or taskmgr regedit
4. soft reset (or, if you hv task manager tool, you can simply kill biotouch.exe and custaplauncher.exe if they're running)

...thank You very much, run it.
Please I not good see, I am older man. I have problem with small letter in SMS.calendar, contacts i.a. You know change registry?

[hotzekeung]

It looks so cool, thank you....:)

[swingover]

hi pp18,
I have never used Taskmgr and so i am a bit confused because i have not found any user's manual about this.

It is not comfortable to modify the regfile with RegEdit of Taskmgr and aboveall it is not understandable what i will modify... So i think this:
Regeditor of the Taskmgr has one feature to EXPORT the reg file into a specified user path like a "backup_Registry_....txt".
So, i would like to know if i can modify this "reg" file with one editor on PC and after to copy this into Dual. will Dual works with new regfile ?! :confused::(:(....
Even if i also think, there should be one method to IMPORT this modified reg file with RegEdit of Taskmgr....

last question:
what is the "Un/Register dll" tag on Regedit ofp taskmgr?

Thanks again in advance

[eyecrispy]

i haven't created one and only have the raw files. i can create one later when i have time. yet, the 4th side is specific to the network operator i'm using. do you really want the 4-sided cube but you need to customize the 4th side (hopefully using a later version of Touch Settings)? or, you want a 3-sided one (without the 2nd aplauncher)?
either is fine. thx!

oops, you've already posted. i'll test it soon!

[pp18]

hi pp18,
I have never used Taskmgr and so i am a bit confused because i have not found any user's manual about this.

it's true. that's why we are all waiting for new Touch Settings. though i couldn't run it successfully, some Touch Dual users reported that they could successfully use v2.20PRE. hopefully it's coming soon. :)


It is not comfortable to modify the regfile with RegEdit of Taskmgr and aboveall it is not understandable what i will modify... So i think this:
Regeditor of the Taskmgr has one feature to EXPORT the reg file into a specified user path like a "backup_Registry_....txt".
So, i would like to know if i can modify this "reg" file with one editor on PC and after to copy this into Dual. will Dual works with new regfile ?! :confused::(:(....
Even if i also think, there should be one method to IMPORT this modified reg file with RegEdit of Taskmgr....

yes, .reg file exported by TaskMgr is of compatible format as the .reg file for pc Windows. i also like to use Notepad.exe on pc to edit registry when i need to modify a bunch of entries. remember to open .reg file from Notepad; double-click a .reg file from File Explorer will import the registry values into your pc Windows, which you won't want to see. and yes, .reg file edited on pc can be easily imported back to WM6 -- if TaskMgr is installed, click a .reg from File Explorer on WM6 can import it.


what is the "Un/Register dll" tag on Regedit ofp taskmgr?

it can be used when installing/uninstalling an app. seldom used by normal users.

[eyecrispy]

due to encouragement from eyecrispy, i compiled this cab for sharing with other beagle lovers:

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh210/pp18_hk/beagle-cube.gif http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh210/pp18_hk/beagle-as.jpg



i installed your snoopy cube tonight. it looks great! i noticed that it's not as smooth as the HTC cube, especially when you first swipe up and bring up the cube (or in this case, the globe). the HTC cube, overall, seems faster and smoother but this cube looks so much cooler!


meanwhile, those beagle fans like me may also want to change the Action Screen to the same theme. the beagle-as.cab contains image files only. it works only if you didn't swap the positions of the buttons or modified the registry keys to use non-default .brn filenames.

i imported this cab file as well. but i don't know what you mean by Action Screen. sorry, i'm just learning this terminology. can you please let me know what that action screen cab does? thanks.

[swingover]

hi pp18,

Thanks a lot, i have understood how to import a reg file with Taskmgr: i'm really stupid :rolleyes: !!

Do you know how to modify Biotouch.exe with any "invertion Engeneering method?
What kind of application is Biotouch.exe?.... C, C++, VisualBasic, .... what?


Tancks a lot again

Post 2:
Doing the "Hard Reset" every time is so much annoying !! And much more when i will re-install every things ...
Is there a method to do an update of whole ppc system?

Post3:
I have tried to modify biotouch adding 4 side, but it doesn't work well. Biotouch doesn't change the side anymore.
So i have downloaded your example and i have reed it. You have added the following propriety: .../Biotouch/Biotouch/Cube4 ...as REG_BINARY.
On PC, I have used CERegEditor to modify the reg file, but i don't know what to write for that propriety.
How do you write this?

[pp18]

i installed your snoopy cube tonight. it looks great! i noticed that it's not as smooth as the HTC cube, especially when you first swipe up and bring up the cube (or in this case, the globe). the HTC cube, overall, seems faster and smoother but this cube looks so much cooler!


well, re the slow speed for first swipe up the cube, it should be the prob in the 4th side only. this is because the CustApLauncher.exe is not pre-loaded upon system start up like the other 3 sides. once it's launched once, it should reside in memory and cause no further problem.

re smoothness of the animation, one possibility is my bad art work in creating the images. in particular, i dunno how to produce an interim state between the expanded side and the globe view. as a result, it's just a flash between these two states. one possible workaround -- adjust the speed of the animation by manually editing these registry keys:

[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\Biotouch]
LeftRightFPS
UpFPS
DownFPS

(personally i'm using 20 for left-right and 15 for up-down)



i imported this cab file as well. but i don't know what you mean by Action Screen. sorry, i'm just learning this terminology. can you please let me know what that action screen cab does? thanks.
it's the menu you see when you slide open the keypad (see 2nd screenshot in post #93). of cos, you need to have the Action Screen enabled in Settings|System|Keypad QuickTasks

[pp18]

Do you know how to modify Biotouch.exe with any "invertion Engeneering method?
What kind of application is Biotouch.exe?.... C, C++, VisualBasic, .... what?

sorry i don't know. i haven't done hands-on programming for quite some time and dare not pick it up again. :p

Post 2:
Doing the "Hard Reset" every time is so much annoying !! And much more when i will re-install every things ...
Is there a method to do an update of whole ppc system?

in asia edition Sprite Backup is shipped with the touch dual device (on software cd). after hard reset, you can restore using the last known good backup image and need not re-install everything. if it's not shipped in your copy, you may consider buy a copy of Sprite Backup or Spb Backup.

Post3:
I have tried to modify biotouch adding 4 side, but it doesn't work well. Biotouch doesn't change the side anymore.
So i have downloaded your example and i have reed it. You have added the following propriety: .../Biotouch/Biotouch/Cube4 ...as REG_BINARY.
On PC, I have used CERegEditor to modify the reg file, but i don't know what to write for that propriety.
How do you write this?
you need to read Cube4 as a series of hex value, one byte for each. Cube1-4 tells the series of image files to be played along the animation, each byte tells the number for lookup to PathNN key. the simplest way to you maybe importing biotouch-4side.reg which can be found in post #2. then you can concentrate on image creation and need not bother this. :)

[Dagnelinos]

Error Error! :D
I'm installed the 3 files of the 3#post.
The 4 side cube is present now, but i don't view any icon on the 4 side and the transition is different for 3 to 4 side and 4 to 1 and the Showing Hide cube of the 4 side.
HELP ME please, i would like a normal standard cube, with standard htc transition (present in the other side)
i understand how to customize the 4 side, but not the transition effect from side to side and the disappear of cube from 4 side.

heeeelp :D

[randomelements]

Interesting.

The T-Mobile Touch Plus variant already has a hidden 4th side which relates to their My Faves service.

[pp18]

Error Error! :D
I'm installed the 3 files of the 3#post.
The 4 side cube is present now, but i don't view any icon on the 4 side and the transition is different for 3 to 4 side and 4 to 1 and the Showing Hide cube of the 4 side.

post #2 or post #3? from your description, sounds like you've installed biotouch-4side.reg + sample-3x3-CAL.reg + placeholder brn.zip, which are in post #2. then, the behavior is just as expected (as said in post #2, it's supposed to be "a super-ugly blank face".

to fix the transition, you need to create your own BlueD01-05.brn and BlueD0-5.brn (totally 11 images).

a quick dirty mitigation if you just want a "look like original cube" feel and don't mind wrong icons being seen upon animating:
simply copy BlueC*.brn to BlueD*.brn (e.g. clone BlueC1.brn to BlueD1.brn) then, you'll see an animated cube but the 3th face is shown where you expect the 4th face during animation.

[rhaynukaa]

Apologies in advance - am a complete N00b hehe!

This theme looks fab but would it work on the Kaiser? I've got Alex's WM6 Home ROM which doesn't have the TouchFlo cube app on there so do I need to have that on my ROM or can I just use this theme ...

Thanks in advance for your help and btw FANTASTIC theme :)

Rhaynukaa

[pp18]

well, i think it's not a matter of which device you have, but which version of Biotouch you're using. the attachments on post #3 are "themes" only, meaning there is no program inside in .cab and only works with the right version of Biotouch - aparently they were packed for Touch Dual (Nike)

sorry i have no idea on the Alex's WM6 Home ROM. you'll need to find out from which device the Biotouch was extracted to cook this ROM. i think it won't work for Biotouch extracted from Touch (Elf) or Sprint Touch (Vogue), while worth a try on Touch Cruise (Polaris).

um... maybe the first thing to check -- see reg keys on post #1. if you can't find the "ColorSkin" key on your device, very likely you're using an incompatible version of Biotouch.

[eyecrispy]

pp18,
I installed your snoop cube awhile back when you made the cab files and it has been working really well. Last night, I installed a new SD card in the phone and ran PIM backup and Sprite backup.

All of a sudden, I noticed the font on the snoopy cube side one (music, photos, videos) is different! It now looks like a smaller script font.

Any ideas? Everything works fine, except the font changed. weird, eh?

[pp18]

@eyecrispy

you may try enlarge the value of this registry key:
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\MediaHubMini] APNameFontSize

this key is not touched by the beagle cube cab. should be something else that has modified it.

[eyecrispy]

@eyecrispy

you may try enlarge the value of this registry key:
[HKLM\Software\HTC\Biotouch\MediaHubMini] APNameFontSize

this key is not touched by the beagle cube cab. should be something else that has modified it.

it's set to 28 right now. is that what yours is? the strange thing is, the font is totally different. not just the font size.

[pp18]

it's set to 28 right now. is that what yours is? the strange thing is, the font is totally different. not just the font size.

i'm using font size 28 as well. really no idea on font name. i tried to search "font" in some potential registry subtrees but no luck. :confused:

[rhaynukaa]

Hey

Thanks for getting back to me re checking the REG keys on my Kaiser... again a N00b question - sorry! How do I check the REG keys? I really want this Snoopy theme - love you guys for designing it but obviously want to make sure it will work first. Any advice will be appreciated :)

Thanks in advance
Rhaynukaa

[pp18]

@rhaynukaa

1. you need a registry editor software, e.g. Task Manager, PHMRegEdit

2. goto the registry key [HKLM\Software\HTC], do you have a sub-key called "ColorSkin"? under this "ColorSkin", do you have a value named "Color"? is this "Color" has value "Blue"? the beagle-cube works only if "yes" for all these 3 questions.

[rhaynukaa]

Hi

Thanks for getting back to me, really appreciate it :-).

I've done as per your reply and also followed the instructions but only one of the sides worked: I got the 9 boxes for speed dial but the Music / Video etc side was black with white writing the third side simply as per normal.

As mentioned I am using the Kaiser - do you think this will work with the Kaiser and if so any ideas on what I might be doing wrong.

Again apologies but I am completely a N00b when it comes to all of this so any help is really appreciated :-)

Thanks :)

[benjenkev_dopod]

I just found the answer..... Thanks.

[pp18]

@ rhaynukaa

well, very likely the biotouch you installed is of incompatible version of what the beagle support. in fact i guess it only works on touch dual (niki) and touch cruise (polaris). i should be able to compile a version to support the sprint touch (vogue) version, but i need a reg dump to know the original settings first and i don't have a device to try it out. :(

[poisonspider]

Can I change the commands behind the icons? Some comnands does not work with my touch dual from orange.

And how can I uninstall the icube? If I uninstall the icube all text stay in the cube and I still have a 4 side cube instead a 3 side cube like the original HTC cube.. can you help me to uninstall everything of i cube?

Thx!

[pp18]

@ poisonspider

to return to 3-sided cube, you may try importing biotouch-3side.reg in post #2.

to change the commands behind the icons, simply use a registry editor to modify the concerned "Path" and "Param" registry key values. see post #1 for explanation of the registry keys.

hope this helps.

[poisonspider]

How can I import biotouch-3side.reg?

Why the uninstall not work very good?
I tried to uninstall icube but only the contact side of the original cube is ok other sides are something between htc cube and icube? :-(

Can somebody help me?

[pp18]

to import a .reg file, you need a registry editor like Task Manager or Resco Registry. with such a software installed, you can click any .reg file from File Explorer on your device to import it.

i'm not sure about uninstallation of icube as i haven't used it on my own. when you say "something between htc cube and icube", can you show us your screenshot? this can help in diagnosis of missing pieces of uninstallation.

meanwhile, what do you see in the animation of switching from one side to another? the icube cool animation, or the built-in htc cube?

[poisonspider]

Ok I made 4 pics from every side of the cube.. I triede already to install it again and to uninstall again but same problem :-(!

I hope the pics help for to see the problem. From left to right side 1, 2, 3, 4 of the HTC cube after uninstalling of icube.. look not very good!
If i switch from side 1 to 2 i see very short time the original HTC cube, later the pic #2, between side 2 and 3 i see the HTC cube, between side 3 and 4 the HTC cube want to turn to side one but the text comes from side 4 of icube without icons and HTC cube stop before it has the first position.

Thx for helping!

[pp18]

um... need to try step by step. at this moment, i can only say your registry key values are corrupted. i'm not yet sure whether you've lost the necessary .brn files for side 2 (mediahubmini).

you can try:

1. import biotouch-3side.reg attached in post #2 of this thread. if lucky enough, your side 1 & 3 should be fixed, and no more text from side 4 of icube.

if successful in step 1 above, you can then:

2. import biotouch-mh.reg attached in post #2. if no missing .brn files in your device, you should be able to get back the icons on side 2.

good luck. :)

[madge33]

I have a MDA touch plus on t-mobile and have downloaded musicmans edited cab from post #25 maybe i'm just plain stupid but can't run it??

Please help

I do have an older 4sided cube already on phone which fuctions badly so I'm looking to fix this as well

cheers for any help

[pp18]

um... how did you run it? and, what's the error message? hv you verified existence of the "ColorSkin" registry key as mentioned in post #1 & 25?

frankly i hv no idea on the t-mobile version at all, and really dunno whether i can really help. :(

[varior]

Hi Guys !

I've tried the Touch Settings 2.25a prog from FatAttitude, but modified cube by this software isn't as smooth as the original one :
- The animations run and only after that, the icons or the picture of the contacts appear...
- The ApLauncher side show black separators during the animation
- The MediaHub side don't show the separators during animation, etc.

So I just want to go back to the original !
1. Could you please post the original HTC *.brn files (or list the original file names) and a registry key to solve this animation problem ?

Edit : I don't read, sorry

(B1) Image files for Biotouch

Theoretically there is no limitation on names of the .brn files, because all are controlled by the combined set of "Cube*" and "Path*" keys. yet, I'd like to follow the file names used in the default cube shipped with the device for simplicity.

{c}A0.brn, {c}A1.brn, .., {c}A5.brn = transition from the side A to side B
{c}B0.brn, {c}B1.brn, .., {c}B5.brn = transition from the side B to side C
{c}C0.brn, {c}C1.brn, .., {c}C5.brn = transition from the side C to side D (if 4-sided) or side A (if 3-sided)
{c}D0.brn, {c}D1.brn, .., {c}D5.brn = transition from the side D to side A

Remarks: there are only 4 transition states in Elf, while 6 in Vogue and Nike

{c}X01.brn, {c}X02.brn, .., {c}X05.brn = transition of pulling up/down side X (where X = A, B, C or D)

Remarks: there are only 3 transition states in Elf, while 5 in Vogue and Nike

(B2) Image files for QuickDial

no big difference from Elf / Vogue. just QD_01.png .. QD_04.png not required.

(B3) Image files for MediaHubMini

the same set files as in Elf. yet, all MH_xx.brn and MH_xx_HL.brn must carry the {c} prefix.

2. Do you know if Touch Settings replaces some files like BioTouch or MediaHubMini exe ?

Thx for your help and your work on the Cube ;)

[pp18]

@varior

2. Do you know if Touch Settings replaces some files like BioTouch or MediaHubMini exe ?

for touch dual, seems not. after all, Touch Settings 2.25a is still a beta and not yet fully support touch dual. in fact the safest way to "uninstall" is to hard-reset and restore the backup right before the installation. it is troublesome to figure out each file being modified by Touch Settings. of cos, you can start with those files listed in post #1.

[swingover]

Hi to everyone,
I have customized my 4CubeSide using the firt post of PP18 and everythinks work well.
But i am annoying to modify everything, when i want to change something; I would like to make a UI Editing program.
i could make it with java2.0, but i think that it cannot access to SD folder (....I don't know really) and aboveall i think i couldn't use the "Touch" features.

What can i read to learn about WM platform?
thanks a lot.

[pp18]

@swingover

fyi, carlos p_uk in this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=324556) is working on the same thing :)

[lordbye]

Hi,

an info. How to restore original cube, without make an hard reset (i haven't my pc here and i can't restore any bakup of my installed application)

[pp18]

@lordbye

1. which cube are you using right now? you did the work manually or installed a cab?

2. if installation by cab, have you tried "uninstall" from Settings > Remove Programs?

3. after uninstallation, if something wrong like post #121 above, try the additional step in post #122.

hope this helps.

[soulcrusher]

Hey,

I have a t-mobile dual, and those pink icons arent very pretty, is there someone who can copy all the (grey or blue) icons from the original cube, audiomanger and htc home and put into a zip file??

Thanks

[muzikfreakah]

I really want to add this but have to admit that I am still a noob at this.

Questions:
1.) Is the installation process simple (ie like cab file or exe)
2.) What im really after is the fourth customized application page. Is it possible to personalized which aps you want to come out there?
3.) Is there an installation that would allow me to keep everything as is on my nike 16key and just add the fourth cube face? Thats all I am after really, rather than installing a third party launcher for my aps, Id like it to be just this.

[delvecchio]

oh my God, im really not understand....
i hope there will be cab file...
pliss help

[muzikfreakah]

Anybody? :-)

Is the HTC customizer the same as this? :-)

[pp18]

@muzikfreakah

1. pre-packed cubes on post #3 are available in installation cab format

2. at this moment still can't find a tool with GUI to edit the aplaunchers' settings. you can only use a registry editor to customize yours.

3. it's difficult to find such a "installable aplauncher". in fact all necessary programs are already shipped with your device. the problem is, a new side of aplauncher requires at least 11 more image files for the animation of cube plus 2 images for each button. it's difficult to provide one side only, otherwise animation to this new side will have inconsistent look from the other sides. if you really don't mind an ugly 4th-side ApLauncher, you can follow the steps provided at the end of post #2

[xiufoong]

Everything works fine for me. Really appreciate the good work.

Has anyone got HTC's original 4-side-cube .brn files ? and maybe some good icons ;)?.

thanks for posting it up :cool:

[xiufoong]

Hey guys,

spent some time to create a blank original-HTC-like 3x3 cusAP side with rotating cube transaction. i think it might comes in handy......

[pp18]

thanks, xiufoong. link added to post #3.

on the other hand, seems HTC's original cube has 3 sides only? what do you mean by "HTC's original 4-side-cube .brn files"?

[xiufoong]

i thought someone would have a four sided one lol .....
btw, attached the updown as well...

[muzikfreakah]

@muzikfreakah

1. pre-packed cubes on post #3 are available in installation cab format

2. at this moment still can't find a tool with GUI to edit the aplaunchers' settings. you can only use a registry editor to customize yours.

3. it's difficult to find such a "installable aplauncher". in fact all necessary programs are already shipped with your device. the problem is, a new side of aplauncher requires at least 11 more image files for the animation of cube plus 2 images for each button. it's difficult to provide one side only, otherwise animation to this new side will have inconsistent look from the other sides. if you really don't mind an ugly 4th-side ApLauncher, you can follow the steps provided at the end of post #2

Ok got it, I am really willing to try this but I just down have the time to do so and I can afford the bag down time of my phone coz I need all the time for work :-( But will see what I can do, thanks! ;-)

[pp18]

@ xiufoong

your work is great. what if we create a .cab for installing the 4th-side only to the original htc cube?

[trigonos]

Sorry to be so ignorant, but I can't get the following tiny problem sorted:

Situation:
1. I have the 4 sides working and sliding properly using the above Biotouch4side (#1 + #137 + #139). My thanks to the people who did it.
The touch-buttons on the 4th side are then idential to the 3rd side (ie. Email, SMS...; the icons are visible). All working fine and fast enough. I now want to change the apps.
2. I can use the registry and change the application name and extension. Touching the appl on the 4th side actually starts the correct new application(in this case my TomTom), so that's not the problem.

What is the problem?
3. I changed a .bmp file (Tomtom.bmp) to tomtom.brn (using the Brn converter) and placed it directly in the Windows directory. I checked and it is actually sitting there (spelling is correct!).
4. In CustAppLauncher IconPath = "Tomtom.brn" (without the "")
5. IconPresspath = "Tomtom.brn" (without the ""). For your information: I also tried "AL_Tomtom.brn" (I have it as button 4 or App4) but no success.

=> On 4th side the name of the new appl appears, but the Tomtom-icon does not. That irritates me a lot! What do I do wrong?

Thanks for any guidance and support.

[xiufoong]

@pp18

creating a .cab file would be excellent, i m totally cool with it as long as it helps others. i think that's what the forum for :cool:


@trigonos

maybe u should rename it to "BlueTomtom.brn" ?

[trigonos]

@pp18

creating a .cab file would be excellent, i m totally cool with it as long as it helps others. i think that's what the forum for :cool:


@trigonos

maybe u should rename it to "BlueTomtom.brn" ?


@xiufoong
Thanks. It works! I noticed just now that the answer has already been posted several times, but somehow I did not connect!

One more question: after using brnconverter, the icons come out at a smaller size than the ones normally seen on the 3x2 (like with side on Email, SMS etc). In other words: my TomTom icon only fills about 1/2 of its allocated section. In the registry I kept the original size from side 3, so the problem should not be there, I think. Is there a way to change the size of the icon so it fills the whole of the box in a 3 (down) x 2 side-configuration?

[muzikfreakah]

Guys this seems to be working on the niki is this better than this one?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=324556

[pp18]

@siufoong
i'll see whether i can compile a .cab of your work this sunday. ;)

@trigonos
BrnConvert.exe
the ApLauncher can't do any scaling work. you must ensure your own .bmp file is of same size as the corresponding AppN reg key's "Height" and "Width" values.

@muzikfreakah
touch settings v2.25pre didn't work on my touch dual. good luck. remember to have a backup before trying as it's still a beta version.

[muzikfreakah]

@siufoong
i'll see whether i can compile a .cab of your work this sunday. ;)

@trigonos
BrnConvert.exe
the ApLauncher can't do any scaling work. you must ensure your own .bmp file is of same size as the corresponding AppN reg key's "Height" and "Width" values.

@muzikfreakah
touch settings v2.25pre didn't work on my touch dual. good luck. remember to have a backup before trying as it's still a beta version.

Nah, since im fairly new at this Ill wait for an original cab file from you :-) Thanks! Gluck!

[muzikfreakah]

Btw, aside from the additional fourth side, can you increase the HTC today screen icons to 6 tabs? Currently its just, home, weather, shortcuts and tones. :-D

Just a request though if it is possible :-)

[drsumit]

Sorry to be so ignorant, but I can't get the following tiny problem sorted:

Situation:
1. I have the 4 sides working and sliding properly using the above Biotouch4side (#1 + #137 + #139). My thanks to the people who did it.
The touch-buttons on the 4th side are then idential to the 3rd side (ie. Email, SMS...; the icons are visible). All working fine and fast enough. I now want to change the apps.
2. I can use the registry and change the application name and extension. Touching the appl on the 4th side actually starts the correct new application(in this case my TomTom), so that's not the problem.

What is the problem?
3. I changed a .bmp file (Tomtom.bmp) to tomtom.brn (using the Brn converter) and placed it directly in the Windows directory. I checked and it is actually sitting there (spelling is correct!).
4. In CustAppLauncher IconPath = "Tomtom.brn" (without the "")
5. IconPresspath = "Tomtom.brn" (without the ""). For your information: I also tried "AL_Tomtom.brn" (I have it as button 4 or App4) but no success.

=> On 4th side the name of the new appl appears, but the Tomtom-icon does not. That irritates me a lot! What do I do wrong?

Thanks for any guidance and support.

You have to prefix "Blue" (without the quotes) to the name of the *.brn file in the windows directory. the registry will contain the name of the file only. e.g. the name of the file in the windows directory should be "BlueTomtom.brn". Change the name, soft-reset and enjoy.

[mings]

In MobilityFlow Touch Commander, there are 3 button (Work, Home and Friend)
Each button have a side which contain 12 buttons, you can assign with contact or program. It's fully customize and lots buttons.

thanks

[pp18]

Thanks to siufoong who created the images for the animation, here's the .cab for a 4-sided cube in original htc theme.

please note that this is NOT a full cube, but just to add the 4th side to the original 3-sided cube. there're 3x3 buttons on the CAL side as defined in the sample-3x3-CAL.reg which is downloadable from post #2.

For how to define your own shortcuts on the new CAL side, please refer to post #1.

pls let me know whether this cab works. :)

[mings]

Anybody have image (bmp or brn file) for some application i.e :
PIM Backup, TPaleditor, Resco Explorer, Phone Alarm. etc
So when we customized App, we can use this pict (Icon at cube).
And how make this cube like Touch Flo (there is 3 pages for One side cube)
and also could choose (Application or Contacts)
Thanks

[lindilm]

Dear all
I had 4 side tube already ,but I just can post blued0~d5.brn ,blued01~05.brn other brn files can't overwrite old file .....even I had close biotouch.exe and custaplauncher.exe ..........screen just show can't change rom files...
so Any thing i can do for....?? thank a lot ....:confused:

[rev12]

I have added/changed my APLaucher screen to to include Resco Regedit, ActiveSync, and Resco Explorer for quick reference and use. I am not know how to up load the files but here how the icons and BRN files and RegEdit that you should just be able to install:
I hope up loaded it correctly and that it works for you?

My Device is the HTC Touch Dual Neon300.

[AleXXX1972]

Dear friends! Would you please explain me hoe to uninstall all these cube customizations and back all cube's defaults? What should I do step by step? Any reg changes etc.? Please help.Thanks!