Bare WM 6.5 23034 Cooked ROM with unnecessary items removed ~ Witschey

[witschey]

Bare WM 6.5 23034 Cooked ROM with unnecessary items removed.

Version 2 of this ROM is available in post #4 below. If you are not familiar with this ROM please read the description in post 1, and the "Tips" and "Known Issues" section in post #2 and #3 before proceeding to download the ROM from post #4.

UPDATED on Aug 29, 2009 - 4:00pm US Central Time




Starting with with September 10, 2009 I have decided to consolidate Bare WM 6.5 builds into only one (1) thread. I suggest you subscribe to the following thread to be kept abreast of future updates:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4469872&postcount=1



This ROM follows the same principles as the very popular Bare WM 6.5 23009 ROM which I posted here:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=547754

and the Bare WM 6.5 23028 ROM posted here:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=550256

It was cooked with the osKitchen (by OndraSter) which can be found here:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=540704

The ROM follows the principle of getting rid of unnecessary items in the Windows Mobile 6.5 source files in order to make as much RAM available on my Kaiser as possible after the installation of WM 6.5. However I didn't want to 'cripple' features that I needed/wanted to have installed.

The result is a ROM that uses about 32 MB of RAM while the Kaiser is idle (and before you install your own applications). That means that you will have close to 70MB of free RAM with this cooked ROM. The size of the cooked ROM flash image (the NBH file) is: 51 MB, leaving 154 MB of storage space available on the Kaiser.

What I may consider 'unnecessary files' may not be considered the same by others. Therefore I am listing the WM 6.5 items that I removed so that you can determine if this cooked ROM fits your needs. I am also enclosing a folder titled "XXXX- Kitchen Removed Sources.zip" which will show you EXACTLY what was removed. If you miss one of the removed items, simply move it back (to the same directory) and cook a ROM.

** General overview of what was removed:

- All of the non-essential OEM and EXT applications which normally ship with "Os Kitchen". I left only the OEM and EXT items which I found to be necessary for the normal operation of the ROM on the Kaiser. If through your own testing you find that one or more are unnecessary please let me know (as I would want to get rid of it as well!)

- Ringtones and other sound files which are not necessary for the normal operation of the ROM (if you miss one or more of those files you can easily put them in an SD card and access them from there)

- All files (CPR, Images, etc.) that relate to a resolution that is not supported by the Kaiser.

- The 'Calculator' application because there is plenty of great calculators for WM PPC out there, and I don't like to have software duplication.

- All "Windows Live" related stuff, because I don't use it.

- All 'games' that come with WM 6.5 because I don't use them, and there is much better games in the marketplace.

- IPSEC related files because I don't use that type of 'virtual tunnel'.

- LiveSearch because I prefer Google.

- Unnecessary Mobile Office templates

- Remote Desktop (because I don't use that software. I prefer RDM+, which I install separately...not in the ROM)

- Task Manager (because I prefer to install Advanced Task Manager...separately, not in the ROM)

- Skybox (because I don't use Microsoft 'My Phone' and related services.)

- Skymarket (because I don't need a software store on my phone)

- All Themes except for 'Classic Blue' (because I prefer to install my own themes...separately, not in the ROM)

- VOIP (because no VOIP application comes with WM 6.5, and VOIP applications like Skype work without these files. So they seem to be a waste of space. If anybody disagrees and can explain the purpose of those files please let me know.)

- Welcome Center (Because I am experienced enough with WM 6.5 that I don't need somebody to guide me)

- All Windows Mobile Widgets (because I prefer to install my own ....separately not in the ROM).

- Zip viewer (because I prefer to install my own compression/decompression software)

- Microsoft Auto Data Configuration (before I don't need MS to configure my data. I do that manually).

- Lock Screen Media player icons and images (because that feature of WM 6.5 has not been enabled by Microsoft yet)

- Time Bomb removed. You can enjoy this ROM for as long as you like.

*****

In addition to the file removals that I describe above, I made a few changes which apply to BOTH Chocolate and Vanilla Flavors of the ROM.

- I changed the boot screen back to the original HTC screen that says "smart mobility"
- I changed the animation screen back to the original HTC screen that has an animated HTC logo
- I changed the boot up sound to one that uses aprox 100K
- I changed the Windows start up screen to that of Windows Mobile 7
- I added software to fix the animation start up sound (which didn't work in the original build)
- I added software to fix the animation boot up screen (which was mixed with some other stuff that I removed)
- I added a registry entry that changes the default skin on Windows Media Player to Diamond Portrait.
- I added code to install 'Random Access' in the Contacts Screen. (allows quick access to people by clicking letter on the right margin)
- I added code to change the Start menu to a single column vertical list. I consider that MUCH more useful than the hexagon grid.
- I added a registry entry to remove the 'tap time' that is required when selecting items in WM 6.5 folders.
- I added a registry entry to allow two way phone conversations to be recorded with any 3rd party software.
- I added a registry entry to display 'Recording' in the phone menu (shows up in the menu only during a call)
- I fixed the Windows Start, X, OK buttons on the bottom toolbar (because Microsoft used the wrong size).
- I fixed the lock screen background wallpaper alignment.
- I changed the lock screen layout so that the scroll button is at the bottom and the time/appointment at the top.

- In addition the "Chocolate" flavor has these changes:

- Replaced the battery indicator for one that shows the percentage remaining (in increments of 10%), and changes color (White/Orange/Red) depending on the amount of battery remaining.
- Added Advanced Task Manager
- Replaced regular Comm Manager with a 6 item Comm Manager to replace the 3 item one that comes standard with WM 6.5

Screen shots of the "Chocolate" flavor are here:

http://clip2net.com/clip/m22632/1251046529-wm-6-5-23034-chocolate-screen-shots-197kb.jpg

Screen shots of the "Vanilla" flavor are here:

Coming Soon!

NOTE: For those who do not like the Chocolate or Vanilla flavors, I am making available the source files so that you can make any necessary changes to suit your taste. All my changes are in the EXT folder and are clearly labeled with "-PW" after the folder name. So you can choose to keep them or remove them based on your personal needs.


And here is an Spb Benchmark test on a fresh copy of this ROM. I don't know if this type of tests are trustworthy, and I have no benchmark to compare it with. All I can say is that the OS feels very fast and responsive. Don't base yourself on the benchmark. Try it and see if it works for you. It does for me.


http://clip2net.com/clip/m22632/1251051887-wm-6-5-build-23034-benchmark-110kb.jpg



Here are the files:


a)You can download the "Vanilla" flavored cooked ROM (which is ready to be flashed directly on your device) from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/127149737/b7ce67aa/WM_65_-_build_23034_ROM_-_Vanilla.html


b) You can download the "Chocolate" flavored cooked ROM (which is ready to be flashed directly to your device) from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/127133110/c28cd04d/WM_65_build_23034_ROM_-_Chocolate.html



c) You can download the OEM, SYS, EXT, MSXIPKERNEL, and Bootup and Windows & "Bootup Start up Screens" folders (which have been purged of unnecessary items), and replace the respective folders that are in the "sources" directory of osKitchen from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/127154049/d5723b82/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Sources.html


d) You can download the "Vanilla" flavor osKitchen configuration file (which you MUST use in combination with the OEM, SYS, EXT folders shown in item "c" to cook your ROM in osKitchen) here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/127149745/16819041/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Vanilla_Configuration_File_-_osKitchen.html




e) You can download the "Chocolate" flavor osKitchen configuration file (which you MUST use in combination with the OEM, SYS, EXT folders shown in item "c" to cook your ROM in osKitchen) here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/127149749/1f37dc6a/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Chocolate_Configuration_File_-_osKitchen.html



f) You can download the 'removed' OEM, SYS, and EXT folders (which you can use to verify what I removed....or to move back something that I removed but that you want) here:


http://www.4shared.com/file/127157218/ce3384d1/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Removed_Sources.html


Enjoy!

IMPORTANT: The only thing that I ask in return for my contribution is that if you find more space savings you share them with me. I left several items in the OEM and EXT folders because I know for a fact that some of those items ARE needed for the correct functioning of critical features such as movie file playback. However some of those items may not be necessary. If you find out that they are not necessary, or you find other files in the SYS folder that could be removed without affecting performance, please let me know by posting a message on this thread.

[witschey]

Tips:

- After the ROM loads, go to phone settings (Start-Settings-Personal-Phone) and in the "Phone" tab select the Ring Type that you want to use. You can put Ringtones in any folder of your Kaiser and they will appear in the "Ring Type" pull down menu. I put them on external storage (SD Card) under a directory called "My Ringtones".

- Missing MMS Options. Standard Builds of WM 6.5 DO NOT come with MMS. To get MMS read other threads such as http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=500869.

- HTC Task Manager missing. The source files do not have the HTC task manager and I don't like it anyway; so I purposely didn't install it. If you want the HTC task manager please install it on your own, or cook your own version of my ROM.

- OEM/EXT folders - If you cook your own ROM using my files, you will be able to identify what OEM/EXT packages were added by me, because I follow each package with "-PW". Packages that do not have "-PW" came with the osKitchen, and they appear to be necessary for the proper functioning of the ROM, but I am unable to provide an explanation since I didn't put them together. Contact OndraSter (the maker of osKitchen) in case you have a question about an OEM/EXT package that do not have "-PW" after it.

- Aligning Screen - After you install the new ROM, remember to align the screen. You can do that here: Start - Settings - System - Screen and align your screen from there.

- SIM Manager - Left out on purpose. If you want one, read here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...2&postcount=79

- Missing 'owner information' in settings / personal. (ONLY applies to version 1 of this ROM. I have fixed this in version 2 of the ROM). This application was disabled by Microsoft, but fortunately you can enable it with a simply registry trick. Enabling this is critical as many 3rd party applications won't register properly without the owner information.

Remove the "Redirect" value in the following registry key:

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\ControlPanel\Owner]

- Missing 'Input' in settings / personal. - This application was disabled by Microsoft, but you can enable it with a simply registry trick.

Remove the "Redirect" value in the following registry key:

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\ControlPanel\Input]

- Migrating all your programs and settings - To migrate all your programs and settings use spb backup 2.0.2. Just make a backup of your Kaiser just before upgrading to this new build of WM 6.5, and after you install the ROM go to the place where you saved the backup and execute the file. Soon after you execute the backup file spb Backup will tell you that your ROM doesn't match and suggest that you use the "upgrade ROM" feature. Do it. If the restoration gets 'stuck' don't worry, it is normal. Just soft reboot your device and execute the same backup executable. This time it WILL finish. That's it. WARNING - DO NOT include Resco Keyboard Pro in the restoration. Resco keyboard is incompatible with build 23034 of WM 6.5 (see 'Known issues) below.

Disable Magnifying Glass - (ONLY applies to version 1 of this ROM. I have fixed this in version 2 of the ROM). If you find the new magnifying glass annoying (it pops up every time you double click) you can disable it with the following registry entry:

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\GWE\MAGNIFIER]
"Enable"=dword:0

- Lock Screen (ONLY applies to version 1 of this ROM. I have fixed this in version 2 of the ROM). - If one receives more than 2 notifications the slide buttons for SMS, VoiceMail, Missed Call, and/or Email overlap with the main unlock button. To solve this issue you need to install a new lock screen layout file (cpr file). This issue is solved in version 2, so I suggest you upgrade; or if you know how to replace the lock screen cpr file download the source files for version 2 and replace the file in your PPC. This is for advanced users so I won't explain how to do it. You either know it, or you should upgrade the whole ROM.

[witschey]

Known Issues:

- Small Fonts get blurry on Titanium / Today Screen, and sometimes images on Today Screen plug-ins (such as Artesea Twmr 6.5r) get distorted. - This issue has been confirmed by other people cooking WM 6.5 23028 regardless of the cook or kitchen used. It seems to be an issue related to the Microsoft code, and I am unable to fix it. ---> Applies to both version 1 and 2

- Dialog boxes of WM 6.5 have an unfinished selection circle as stated by me in the following post (picture also available) - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4385259&postcount=434 ---> Applies to both version 1 and 2

- Sashimi 8.0 Auto function doesn't seem to be able to select the storage card during the auto install process of cabs, which results in all software being installed on the main memory of the Kaiser. This is provably related to the 'under the hood' changes that Microsoft incorporated in this build ---> Applies to both version 1 and 2

- spb Keyboard Pro 5.22 - This new build of WM 6.5 is NOT compatible with spb Keyboard Pro v. 5.22. The installation seems to go OK, the logo on the toolbar changes to the spb keyboard logo, etc. However the keyboard can not be opened and other windows mobile 6.5 build 23034 applications stop working such as file manager. ---> Applies to both version 1 and 2

[witschey]

Version 2 - Bare WM 6.5 build 23034 ROM:

Version 2 of this ROM fixes some of the bugs that were reported earlier. You can find out what was fixed by reading the "Tips" and "Known Issues" portions of this thread.
In addition to fixing the issues documented there, I have made the following changes:

- Removed "Advanced Task Manager" from the Chocolate version (the vanilla version never had it), because the new task manager that comes with this build of WM is very good. This also offers you the possibility to add a task manager that fits more with your taste (in case you don't like the one that comes with this build of WM 6.5)

- Reduced the size of the battery indicator that I include with the chocolate version (the Vanilla version never had it). Now it only uses about 11 KB instead of almost 500k before. Since that program is running all the time, this improvement alone saves almost 1/2 MB in RAM usage on version 2 of this ROM. The functionality remains the same It shows the percentage remaining (in increments of 10%) above the graphical depiction of the battery, and changes color (White/Orange/Red) depending on the amount of battery remaining. I have tried many other battery indicators (including some that have the percentage inside the battery) and this is the one I like most.

- Replaced the Start Menu button with a color version instead of the white one that I included with version 1. Below I am enclosing a screen shot so that you can see what it looks like. The rest of the ROM looks exactly like it is depicted in version 1 above (except for the advanced task manager which was removed from all flavors of the ROM).

http://clip2net.com/clip/m22632/1251579219-color-start-menu-button-46kb.png


a)You can download the "Vanilla" flavored cooked ROM (which is ready to be flashed directly on your device) from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128702454/784b9dfa/WM_65_-_build_23034_ROM_-_Vanilla_v2.html


b) You can download the "Chocolate" flavored cooked ROM (which is ready to be flashed directly to your device) from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128708432/a8cf7f2d/WM_65_-_build_23034_ROM_-_Chocolate_v2.html



c) You can download the OEM, SYS, EXT, MSXIPKERNEL, and Bootup and Windows & "Bootup Start up Screens" folders (which have been purged of unnecessary items), and replace the respective folders that are in the "sources" directory of osKitchen from here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128693739/2c162e29/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Sources_v2.html



d) You can download the "Vanilla" flavor osKitchen configuration file (which you MUST use in combination with the OEM, SYS, EXT folders shown in item "c" to cook your ROM in osKitchen) here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128696642/c299fb63/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Vanilla_Configuration_File_-_osKitchen_v2.html



e) You can download the "Chocolate" flavor osKitchen configuration file (which you MUST use in combination with the OEM, SYS, EXT folders shown in item "c" to cook your ROM in osKitchen) here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128696640/2c979a4f/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Chocolate_Configuration_File_-_osKitchen_v2.html



f) You can download the 'removed' OEM, SYS, and EXT folders (which you can use to verify what I removed....or to move back something that I removed but that you want) here:

http://www.4shared.com/file/128696630/63d60c88/WM_65_-_build_23034_-_Removed_Sources_v2.html

[francis_fds]

Waiting to try this rom, since it has so much available RAM and ROM.

[francis_fds]

Thank you for this ROM and moreover for your PM. The reason I am waiting to try this ROM is cause, after having tried all the ROMS, have noticed there always is some stuff I do not need. Tried cooking, but unable to make much progress. Have always wanted a ROM without windows live messenger, windows search, skybox and all that windows crap.

Just a suggestion, though, if you could include the other battery icon, the one in which the percentage shows inside the battery. Only a suggestion though, which you could consider. The percentage figure is a little larger and so easier to read. Am attaching the cab.

Also, there is this new MOTO today screen, have you tried that?

Am downloading your ROM now, will post comments, if any.

Thank you once again.

[witschey]

Just a suggestion, though, if you could include the other battery icon, the one in which the percentage shows inside the battery.

I like the idea of having a battery meter that has the percentage inside. However I like the fact that my current choice changes to orange when it reaches about 40%, and to red when it reaches 20%. Can you point me to the source page where you got the cab file you sent me to see if they have the one that is white until it reaches 40%, then orange until it reaches 20% and then red?

Also, there is this new MOTO today screen, have you tried that?

I have never heard of the MOTO screen. Can you point me to it so that I can check it out? I have to say that I am quite happy with Titanium, so the MOTO screen would have to be darn good for me to consider it.

[mortifying]

aaaaaaabbbbbb

[witschey]

mortifying,

I posted this new ROM only today. So if you had problems with a ROM last night, then it must have been some other ROM and not mine.

This ROM works well as long as you do not try to restore your settings from previous ROM using spb backup. For some reason the "rom upgrade" feature of spb backup doesn't seem to be possible with 23034; I guess Microsoft changed a lot of the registry entries.

If you restore your settings with spb backup you will experience erratic behavior with 23034; but it has nothing to do with the 23034; it has to do with the restoration process which messes up the registry entries.

[siulmagic]

moto home screen is quite good the only draw back is the ram it consumes, about 17mb, so ya its pretty and all but thats alot of ram

[witschey]

moto home screen is quite good the only draw back is the ram it consumes, about 17mb, so ya its pretty and all but thats alot of ram

That's a no starter for me. I cooked these Bare ROMs because I want to maximize RAM and get rid of stuff I consider 'junk'; so using 17 MB for a Start Up screen is out of the question for me. Back in the WM 6.1 days I used spb shell 3.01, and I liked it; but the Titanium screen is quite powerful when used with plugins and I am quite satisfied by it. In combination with my modified start menu it fulfills all my needs. The only thing I don't like about the Titanium (today screen) is that the small fonts get a bit blurry over time.

[siulmagic]

btw i think you misunderstood me XD, moto home is a replacement for titanium, not a home screen image, if thats what you think im referring too

[witschey]

Just a suggestion, though, if you could include the other battery icon, the one in which the percentage shows inside the battery. Only a suggestion though, which you could consider. The percentage figure is a little larger and so easier to read. Am attaching the cab.

I looked at your your battery meter suggestion and I like the idea of having the percentage inside the battery but your proposal uses a dll file which is inefficient, as it has a bunch of icons that do not pertain to the battery meter.

I found another battery meter with the percentage inside the battery where the dll is only 50K (instead of 1174K), so I am going to consider using that one; but before I roll it out I will have to edit the icons so that from 40% to 20% the icons are orange, and then from 20% to 0% red. I like that visual clue.

[witschey]

btw i think you misunderstood me XD, moto home is a replacement for titanium, not a home screen image, if thats what you think im referring too

Isn't spb shell also a titanium replacement? Anyway, regardless of whether it replaces or sits on top of titanium there is no way I am going to install something that consumes 50% of what the whole operating system consumes when it is on idle.

[siulmagic]

well its just like m2d, regardless i was just answering your question about you not knowing what moto screen did or what it was, and now you do =)

[witschey]

well its just like m2d, regardless i was just answering your question about you not knowing what moto screen did or what it was, and now you do =)

Yes, thank you for the explanation.

[mvmpy]

Hi Witschey, thanks for this new ROM.

Maybe a noobs question, but anyway, is it time bombed?

[agh1701]

-I fixed the Windows Start, X, OK buttons on the bottom toolbar (because Microsoft used the wrong size).

hey witschey,

Can you explaine how you fixed this? I am intereseted in using this fix in another ROM.

[witschey]

hey witschey,

Can you explain how you fixed this? I am intereseted in using this fix in another ROM.

Sure, you can find the answer to your question in a post that I made some days ago. Here is a direct link to that post:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4383803&postcount=430

[witschey]

Hi Witschey, thanks for this new ROM.

Maybe a noobs question, but anyway, is it time bombed?

The time bomb was removed. So you can enjoy this ROM for as long as you want.

[drbowden]

Hi Witschey,

I noticed that you include both MS Voice Command and Voice Dial in your ROM. Is there a way to remove Voice Dial, as I use Voice Command only and my headset triggers Voice Dial instead. I can't find where to remove it in the kitchen, but know it has been done by other chefs in the past. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

With that one nit, love the ROM!

Dean
ATT Tilt No Camera

[witschey]

Hi Witschey,

I noticed that you include both MS Voice Command and Voice Dial in your ROM. Is there a way to remove Voice Dial, as I use Voice Command only and my headset triggers Voice Dial instead. I can't find where to remove it in the kitchen, but know it has been done by other chefs in the past. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

With that one nit, love the ROM!

Dean
ATT Tilt No Camera

Hi,

Happy to hear that there is people out there who are trying and liking this ROM. I like it as well, but I am furious to see that I can't move my settings from build 23028 to 23034 using the ROM upgrade feature of spb Backup. It worked from 23009 to 23028, so I am completely puzzled why it doesn't work with this version.

Anyway, back to your question. I honestly don't know how you would remove Voice Dial while keeping Voice Command in the ROM. If you say that others have done it before your best bet is to send a private messages to those that did it.

However if you can't reach them or you want to experiment on your own, you could try removing:

Sources\SYS\23034\BaseApps\hotvoice.exe

But again, I have never tried it before so I can't guarantee results with this. Both voice applications seem to be intermingled, as the ROM mostly has files that have the voice command application, and the only thing I see is a shortcut to the voice dial.

Instead of that approach you could look at the startup folder inside the windows directory to see if there is a shortcut that starts Voice Dial. If there is you can simply remove that shortcut and that will prevent the application from starting at startup; solving your problem.

[francis_fds]

Hi,

Where does one enter the owner name in this ROM? I cant seem to find owner info in the usual location within settings. Please help.

[witschey]

Hi,

Where does one enter the owner name in this ROM? I cant seem to find owner info in the usual location within settings. Please help.

SOLVED. Please check out post #2 where I have posted the solution. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4387673&postcount=2

[witschey]

Resco Keyboard Pro v 5.11 IS incompatible with build 23034 of WM 6.5

I just want to make sure that everybody is aware that Resco Keyboard Pro incompatible with build 23034 of WM 6.5

Its installation causes a large variety of conflicts with the operating system. Not only does the keyboard not work, but you will get memory errors when starting applications like File explorer, office applications, etc.

Microsoft must have changed something under the hood which makes it incompatible.

[witschey]

spb Backup 2.02 IS compatible with build 23034 of WM 6.5

I have good news to share. Spb Backup version 2.02 is able to restore settings and programs that were backed up with a previous build of WM 6.5 as long as your backup doesn't include Resco Keyboard Pro v. 5.22

[daigoro64]

spb Backup 2.02 IS compatible with build 23034 of WM 6.5

I have good news to share. Spb Backup version 2.02 is able to restore settings and programs that were backed up with a previous build of WM 6.5 as long as your backup doesn't include Resco Keyboard Pro v. 5.22

Thank you very much for this info.
At least a program that works in WM6.5 (SpriteBackup do not officially supports WM 6.5 and using it on this OS version in not fully reliable).

[Baly23]

i'd to try it!
Looks great!
This evening, or next morning i'll flash it ;)

[Baly23]

i tryed total commander, but in the lower bar, the keys are too distant and are out of the screen (then you cannot click them).
When I "double-click" in some apps, there is a zoom-square that make me mad!
There is a way to disable it?
When it's activated, evry click become double click.

[witschey]

i tryed total commander, but in the lower bar, the keys are too distant and are out of the screen (then you cannot click them).
When I "double-click" in some apps, there is a zoom-square that make me mad!
There is a way to disable it?
When it's activated, evry click become double click.

The magnifying glass (which you call zoom-square) CAN be disabled. Check the tips section of this post (I think it is post 3 for information on how to disable it).

[witschey]

Thank you very much for this info.
At least a program that works in WM6.5 (SpriteBackup do not officially supports WM 6.5 and using it on this OS version in not fully reliable).

None of the 3rd party companies want to officially say that they support Windows 6.5 because the software hasn't been officially released to any new device by Microsoft. So that includes spb. However I have used spb backup extensively and it has restored my settings without any problems what-so-ever from builds 23009 to 23028 and from 23028 to 23034. So my statement is based on experience.

[Baly23]

The magnifying glass (which you call zoom-square) CAN be disabled. Check the tips section of this post (I think it is post 3 for information on how to disable it).

there isn't any magnifying glass on the entire topic (i use also google chrome to find these words). i'm sorry :D

[witschey]

there isn't any magnifying glass on the entire topic (i use also google chrome to find these words). i'm sorry :D

My mistake. I just updated the tips section and you can find the solution there:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4387673&postcount=2

[witschey]

Resco's response regarding incompatibility of Resco Keyboard Pro 5.22 and build 23034 of WM 6.5



Since many of us use Resco Keyboard Pro in our Kaisers I contacted Resco to report the incompatibility problem that surfaced with build 23034 of WM 6.5 and here is their response:


"Thank you for the report. Because Windows Mobile 6.5 wasn't so far released officially we cannot reflect to such bugs as they might be caused by the cooked ROM. And there are rumors that the build 23xxx is adjusted by the XDA-Developers community and that some features will not be included in the official released version. That is why we have to wait for the first upgrade to WM 6.5 or for the first device running WM 6.5. I hope you will understand this.

Regards,

Lukas Lesko
Support department
resco.net"

It looks like we will have to wait for WM 6.5 to be 'officially released' before we get to use Resco Keyboad Pro with build 23034 (and perhaps later builds). It works OK with builds 23028 and prior.

Does anybody have a good 3rd party keyboard working with build 23034. If so can you please share the name of the keyboard and the version number. Please only share if you are 100% sure that it is working.

[Baly23]

thanks!

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=551869

Here the keyboard that i've skinned, it works perfectly on your rom, i'll be very happy if you will use it :D

[witschey]

thanks!

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=551869

Here the keyboard that i've skinned, it works perfectly on your rom, i'll be very happy if you will use it :D

Thanks for letting me know about your keyboard. I like the looks of it, but I am looking for a keyboard that doesn't require me to press a key two or three times to get the letter I want. IOW one where each letter has its own space, like the Resco Keyboard Pro. I know that you chose to have 3 letters per key to make things more finger friendly, but I rather have one letter per key even if the keys end up being smaller. Thanks anyway.

[edwinrodz25]

Hi!

I really loved your ROM........all the free space, and the freedom to select the SD card to install all my stuff.....WOW!! :) Just one problem for me.........couldn't get Manila 2D to work.

When I installed it, I wasn't able to select any program at the Launcher Bar, neither select any Contact at the People's Bar.........then I changed the ROM, no problem with Manila. :confused:

Do I need any other .cab or files to enable Manila...........If I can solve this matter, I will be your follower and padawan :D


EdwinRodz

[luiggi]

Thanks for letting me know about your keyboard. I like the looks of it, but I am looking for a keyboard that doesn't require me to press a key two or three times to get the letter I want. IOW one where each letter has its own space, like the Resco Keyboard Pro. I know that you chose to have 3 letters per key to make things more finger friendly, but I rather have one letter per key even if the keys end up being smaller. Thanks anyway.

How about FingerKeyboard http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=501122

[davewaave]

Hello, trying the rom, 23034-chocolate. I'm sure I'm missing the obvious, but my dialer is not the dialer that you show in the pictures. What am I doing wrong? I would like to have that dialer. Thanks.

[dy2592]

Hello, trying the rom, 23034-chocolate. I'm sure I'm missing the obvious, but my dialer is not the dialer that you show in the pictures. What am I doing wrong? I would like to have that dialer. Thanks.

That dialer screen I believe is part of the new MS lock screen. So only when you have the device locked, and then recieve a call while its locked, does that screen show up.

[Big Foot]

Since I have been using cooked ROMS for a while, I have callected a HUGE list of cabs, tweaks, and overall WM knowledge. This bare ROM with the latest build is PERFECT for me because as much as I love TPC, Abu, Anryl, etc., there are often 15-20 apps that are precooked on those ROMS that I will never use, in addition to several minor changes that force you to constantly upgrade. With this, I can always work from a safe and reliable starting point and make my phone my way!!! THANKS!!!

I do have a few questions though:

There are a few apps that I install that prompt with a message saying I need to install NetCF 3.5 (for the most part, those apps work fine regardless). I have a cab for NetCF 3.5 but when I try to install it, I get another prompt saying "there is a later build of NetCF on this device, you must first uninstall this version" but I don't know how or where to uninstall this version.

Also, I have Titanium NEO working on my device, but the Favorite Contacts tab won't let me change the contact list, everytime it loads, I get a message saying "Error, File name 'Microsoft.WindowsMobile.PocketOutlook, Version=1.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=31BF3856AD364E35' or one of its dependencies, was not found" then it quits.
I also tried to install Yahoo! Go, Bing & Google Navigator, each getting that same message when trying to start programs.

One last thing, I want to change the Driver for this phone, so far I have Neo Open VG, as well as Omnia D3D drivers as cabs, but I'm looking for Opal TI driver and I'm having an impossible time searching for it, a little push would be appreciated!

Thanks for your help and a great ROM idea - LESS IS MORE!!!!

[witschey]

Hi!

I really loved your ROM........all the free space, and the freedom to select the SD card to install all my stuff.....WOW!! :) Just one problem for me.........couldn't get Manila 2D to work.

When I installed it, I wasn't able to select any program at the Launcher Bar, neither select any Contact at the People's Bar.........then I changed the ROM, no problem with Manila. :confused:

Do I need any other .cab or files to enable Manila...........If I can solve this matter, I will be your follower and padawan :D


EdwinRodz


I am sorry that I am not able to help you troubleshoot the installation of Manila with my ROM. It's not that I don't want to help, but I don't use Manila (never have) so I have no idea why you are having problems installing it. My recommendation would be to download the removed files and see if you can recognize any files/folders that are needed by Manilla which could be causing the problem; then if you find that out you can burn your own version using my source files...simply moving back the missing elements.

If you solve the issue please share the response on this thread, as you are not the only person with this issue.

[witschey]

Hello, trying the rom, 23034-chocolate. I'm sure I'm missing the obvious, but my dialer is not the dialer that you show in the pictures. What am I doing wrong? I would like to have that dialer. Thanks.

The dialer you are referring to is not really a dialer! That is the screen that Microsoft makes available to unlock your device (when you lock it from the start menu). It only shows up if you have entered a PIN code for when you lock it. Sorry!

[witschey]

There are a few apps that I install that prompt with a message saying I need to install NetCF 3.5 (for the most part, those apps work fine regardless). I have a cab for NetCF 3.5 but when I try to install it, I get another prompt saying "there is a later build of NetCF on this device, you must first uninstall this version" but I don't know how or where to uninstall this version.

Glad you l like my ROM. The reasons you state above are the same ones I faced, and that is why I had to create my own ROM.

NetCF 3.5 is part of Windows Mobile 6.5. IOW I didn't add that as an EXT or OEM package, it is part of the operating system.

I have about 60 applications installed and none of them asked me to install NETCF 3.5 (because it is already installed!). The behavior that you are describing is very strange indeed, and I haven't faced it, so I can't help you.

You can not uninstall .NET CF 3.5 from a burned ROM because it is part of the operating system. The only thing you could do is burn your own ROM using the files I make available in post #1 and remove the folder with the .NET framework; and then install (as an OEM or EXT package) your own version; and see if that works better for you. The folder name is called NeTCF and since it is part of the operating system you will find it in the Systems Folder.




Also, I have Titanium NEO working on my device, but the Favorite Contacts tab won't let me change the contact list, everytime it loads, I get a message saying "Error, File name 'Microsoft.WindowsMobile.PocketOutlook, Version=1.0.0.0, Culture=neutral, PublicKeyToken=31BF3856AD364E35' or one of its dependencies, was not found" then it quits.
I also tried to install Yahoo! Go, Bing & Google Navigator, each getting that same message when trying to start programs.

This sounds like one of your applications is causing an incompatibility and is creating problems on the operating system. I had a similar behavior which I was blaming on the spb Backup restoration, but it turned out to be Resco Keyboard Pro; which was causing all programs to give me memory errors and the like. I don't use any of the programs you mentioned. The closest thing I use is Google Maps (works perfectly) and Tom Tom (works perfectly).


One last thing, I want to change the Driver for this phone, so far I have Neo Open VG, as well as Omnia D3D drivers as cabs, but I'm looking for Opal TI driver and I'm having an impossible time searching for it, a little push would be appreciated!

Don't know about Open VG, but D3D will NOT work with this ROM. I hear that it only works on ROMs that do not have the 101 MB hack. I will refer you to the osKitchen thread (you can find it on post #1) where you can ask Ondraster (the maker of the kitchen used to cook this ROM) whether the 101MB version is compatible with those drivers and he or somebody there can point you in the right direction. There was recently a discussion on video drivers, and that is where I know that the D3D drivers do not work with 101 MB ROMs; however somebody else on that tread claims to have made it work, but only if he removed some other drivers, so I strongly suggest you go there. The discussion about video drivers was a day or two ago, so you should easily find it.

[witschey]

How about FingerKeyboard http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=501122

Thanks for the suggestion. I am currently testing EzInput, and it is very nice. Works on this build of WM, etc. However I can't seem to change the layout to full QWERTY on portrait mode; no matter what I do.

I will give your suggestion a shot, but before I do can you please confirm that it is working for you with build 23034?

[witschey]

Recommended Keyboards for this ROM.

As I mentioned before Resco Keyboard Pro v 5.22 doesn't work with build 23034 of WM 6.5 (and therefore it doesn't work with this ROM).

I went out searching for alternatives and I came across EZInput (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=426281) and FingerKeyboard (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=501122).

After evaluating both alternatives in combination with this ROM, I have decided to keep FingerKeyboard 2.1

Both versions work with this ROM, so it is up to you to decide whether you want to replace the build in keyboard with one of these two alternatives. I chose FingerKeyboard 2.1 because EZInput didn't allow me to change use FULL QWERTY on portrait orientation of my Kaiser. Theoretically it should be possible, but it doesn't work. Whether it is a bug that applies only to this build or to the Kaiser or ATT Tilt (regardless of built) I don't know.

Fingerkeyboard is so nice that in all honesty I may not return to the Resco Keyboard Pro even after they fix the problem.

IMPORTANT: FingerKeyboard 2.1 works great on build 23034 of WM 6.5, but after installing SIPChange v1.1 the operating system reacted in a very strange way. If you want to make FingerKeyboard your default keyboard that boots after a soft reset use SK Tools to make it the default keyboard as explained here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=513023

The method described on that website works perfectly and doesn't cause the strange unresponsive behavior that I got after installing SIP change v 1.1

[luiggi]

Thanks for the suggestion. I am currently testing EzInput, and it is very nice. Works on this build of WM, etc. However I can't seem to change the layout to full QWERTY on portrait mode; no matter what I do.

I will give your suggestion a shot, but before I do can you please confirm that it is working for you with build 23034?

I´m sorry I got back late to answer that, evidently you did it by yourself. I think is a good piece of software.

[witschey]

I´m sorry I got back late to answer that, evidently you did it by yourself. I think is a good piece of software.

Yes, thanks for the suggestion. I liked it. The only thing is that after installing it I am noticing that my kaiser navigation keys and the scroll button sometimes do not work.

Did you use the SIP program to enable this keyboard as a default (I did). If you did, how many seconds did you setup in there?

[teorouge]

EDIT: problem solved, sorry for the trouble

[slimshadee]

I see in the first post that you have disabled the honeycomb start menu...how can I re-enable this? Is it possible without re-cooking?

Thanks.

[witschey]

I see in the first post that you have disabled the honeycomb start menu...how can I re-enable this? Is it possible without re-cooking?

Thanks.

If you download the source files, configuration files, and the OndraSter kitchen you will be able to select in the EXT folder the honey comb, and burn your own ROM (using my bare ROM files) Just make sure you deselect the 'list start menu' as both of them can not coincide at the same time.

As to whether it is possible install it after the fact, I am not really sure. For that you will have to do a search for 'honey comb' in xda-developers.

BTW Microsoft removed the Honeycomb several versions ago, so it is not available anymore even from them. They replaced it by a start menu where the icons are placed in the same location that they would be if there was a honey comb, but they removed the honeycomb background effect.

However I have the files in the source files that allow you to re-enable that honey comb effect....but they are in an EXT format, so they are ready to be cooked. If you are good with this type of things you could download the source files, find the hexagon folder in the EXT subdirectory, and try to put together your cab from that EXT package. Good luck!

[slimshadee]

If you download the source files, configuration files, and the OndraSter kitchen you will be able to select in the EXT folder the honey comb, and burn your own ROM (using my bare ROM files) Just make sure you deselect the 'list start menu' as both of them can not coincide at the same time.

As to whether it is possible install it after the fact, I am not really sure. For that you will have to do a search for 'honey comb' in xda-developers.

BTW Microsoft removed the Honeycomb several versions ago, so it is not available anymore even from them. They replaced it by a start menu where the icons are placed in the same location that they would be if there was a honey comb, but they removed the honeycomb background effect.

However I have the files in the source files that allow you to re-enable that honey comb effect....but they are in an EXT format, so they are ready to be cooked. If you are good with this type of things you could download the source files, find the hexagon folder in the EXT subdirectory, and try to put together your cab from that EXT package. Good luck!


Wow...thanks for the detailed explanation; however, I should have been more clear in my question (sorry!)...I really meant that I would like to revert to the standard WM 6.5 start menu, in lieu of the list one you have. I never liked the honeycomb one in particular, anyway, lol. The one I want is the 3 column, staggered rows of icons, just in case I'm not clear enough. Is there a way to re-enable this w/o cooking?
Sorry again!

[witschey]

Wow...thanks for the detailed explanation; however, I should have been more clear in my question (sorry!)...I really meant that I would like to revert to the standard WM 6.5 start menu, in lieu of the list one you have. I never liked the honeycomb one in particular, anyway, lol. The one I want is the 3 column, staggered rows of icons, just in case I'm not clear enough. Is there a way to re-enable this w/o cooking?
Sorry again!

If you were to burn a new ROM using the files I provide in post #1 you could get the default layout by simply deselecting the List Start Menu choice in the EXT tab of the kitchen.

However since you want to try doing it without having to burn a new ROM you can try to replace the start menu CPR files. I have enclosed the default ones. However I am not sure if the operating system will allow you to replace those files. Since the files were burnt as part of the ROM they may be 'untouchable'. You can try....

In case you don't know both of these CPR files would go into the Windows directory on your PPC.

[mvmpy]

Hey Witschey, just wanted to ask, will you consider cooking the new WM build 23036 or 23037?

[mcfarlan]

I see in the first post that you have disabled the honeycomb start menu...how can I re-enable this? Is it possible without re-cooking?

Thanks.

Try the options in TPC Tweaks Folder. I was able to install the DJKOA NoComb cab without any issues

[witschey]

Hey Witschey, just wanted to ask, will you consider cooking the new WM build 23036 or 23037?

It seems that Microsoft is releasing new builds every few days, and with builds 23036 and 23037 I haven't heard of any improvements or changes relative to 2303; therefore I am not planning to cook builds based on those ROMs.

I would only change my mind if somebody were to discover a revolutionary new feature or a major problem improvement.

Right now I am just getting back to a functioning system with 23034; and even then I still have a lot of problems to sort through. Problems that relate to some applications not installing on 23034 (two out of approximately 60 that I use), some applications not closing properly (because the X was moved to bottom bar), some applications not allowing me to select menu choices because Microsoft made the bottom bar bigger and now it covers the menu of the other application, etc.

[mvmpy]

Got it. Thank you. I will start reading about cooking and so maybe I will give it a try.

[Baly23]

It seems that Microsoft is releasing new builds every few days, and with builds 23036 and 23037 I haven't heard of any improvements or changes relative to 2303; therefore I am not planning to cook builds based on those ROMs.

I would only change my mind if somebody were to discover a revolutionary new feature or a major problem improvement.

Right now I am just getting back to a functioning system with 23034; and even then I still have a lot of problems to sort through. Problems that relate to some applications not installing on 23034 (two out of approximately 60 that I use), some applications not closing properly (because the X was moved to bottom bar), some applications not allowing me to select menu choices because Microsoft made the bottom bar bigger and now it covers the menu of the other application, etc.

i'm using showcase, a task manager that, when you click on the right-top corner, show a bar with 3 choice: minize, close, open task manager (showcase).
it's wonderful!
the worst think it's that in portrait mode, there the showcase icon that cover the watch, but doesn't metter ;)

[mcfarlan]

i'm using showcase, a task manager that, when you click on the right-top corner, show a bar with 3 choice: minize, close, open task manager (showcase).
it's wonderful!
the worst think it's that in portrait mode, there the showcase icon that cover the watch, but doesn't metter ;)

In shwcase settings you can hide the icon. You still see the clock but no Showcase icon in the right top corner. Click on the corner and it still activates.

[witschey]

i'm using showcase, a task manager that, when you click on the right-top corner, show a bar with 3 choice: minize, close, open task manager (showcase).
it's wonderful!
the worst think it's that in portrait mode, there the showcase icon that cover the watch, but doesn't metter ;)

Thanks for the recommendation. It does look like a very nice task manager, but in build 23034 when I click on the top right hand corner I can see the tree menu choices that you mention only for a split second, and then they are gone. I am not able to select from among the choices. Is this something that is only specific to build 23034 and upwards?

[witschey]

In shwcase settings you can hide the icon. You still see the clock but no Showcase icon in the right top corner. Click on the corner and it still activates.

Have you tried using showcase with WM 6.5 build 23034 (or later)? If so, could you take a screen shot of the how you have your 'Showcase Settings' configured.

No matter what combination of choices I select I can't get it to work properly.

The showcase top right trigger area only seems to work if I choose to enable the 'Start X enhancement', and the choices presented by that enhancement menu don't seem to show up properly on build 23034. They pop up for a fraction of a second, which means that they do not allow me to make a choice.

Can anybody tell me if they have figured out how to get showcase to work with build 23034?

[mcfarlan]

Have you tried using showcase with WM 6.5 build 23034 (or later)? If so, could you take a screen shot of the how you have your 'Showcase Settings' configured.

No matter what combination of choices I select I can't get it to work properly.

The showcase top right trigger area only seems to work if I choose to enable the 'Start X enhancement', and the choices presented by that enhancement menu don't seem to show up properly on build 23034. They pop up for a fraction of a second, which means that they do not allow me to make a choice.

Can anybody tell me if they have figured out how to get showcase to work with build 23034?


Sorry, I flashed to another Rom already but, in the Showcase settings, I checked all three checkboxes - Close Button on the Right, Small Tap Area, and Hide Homescreen Icon. I had also installed SDKCerts and PDA Corner Battery Icon. I then did a soft-reset and everything was fine. If I click on the top right where the clock is, Showcase would display. Note that this is version 1.0.1

[TomH123]

Is there a setting to get the backlight brighter on the inlock screen? The screen is very dim while I have to enter the pin number to unlock the screen and in the sunlight it can be very difficult to see the numbers to enter the pin. Once it's unlocked the normal "on battery" settings take effect and I can view the screeen just fine. It seems that setting doesn't apply to the unlock screen? Maybe I'm the only one having this issue?

[witschey]

Sorry, I flashed to another Rom already but, in the Showcase settings, I checked all three checkboxes - Close Button on the Right, Small Tap Area, and Hide Homescreen Icon. I had also installed SDKCerts and PDA Corner Battery Icon. I then did a soft-reset and everything was fine. If I click on the top right where the clock is, Showcase would display. Note that this is version 1.0.1

I have no problem displaying showcase, but I can't get the top tree choices (minimize, close, taskbar) to display in a way that I can select the one I want.

Anyway, I asked the question in the developer's thread and after a little argument with one of those idiots that tries to play 'thread police' in discussions that are not theirs, I reached the conclusion that the developer needs to update the software to be compatible with build 23034 and later; and that he doesn't want to do it yet until he sees some stability in the layout of WM 6.5

I don't blame him. The daily updates to the OS by Microsoft are driving me absolutely crazy. I have decided that I will only create a new build of WM 6.5 about once a month or so; regardless of Microsoft's release frequency. The team behind WM 6.5 development seems to be out of control. I like the changes they are making, but releasing new versions to the public every few days just doesn't seem logical. When you want to collect feedback from the testers you need to provide some structure to the process, and that normally involves giving time to the testers to really try your new builds. It is ridiculous to expect testers to trully try a new build (with 3rd party software and all) in a day or two.

[witschey]

Is there a setting to get the backlight brighter on the inlock screen? The screen is very dim while I have to enter the pin number to unlock the screen and in the sunlight it can be very difficult to see the numbers to enter the pin. Once it's unlocked the normal "on battery" settings take effect and I can view the screeen just fine. It seems that setting doesn't apply to the unlock screen? Maybe I'm the only one having this issue?

Sorry, but I don't know if such a setting exists. I would suggest asking that question on the following forum which is frequented by people with a lot more 'under the hood' experience.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=544445

[mcfarlan]

@witschey....I reloaded your Rom and set it up the way I had before. I had stated previously, Showcase 1.0.1b works for me...



Edit: I get you...I get the three choices individually, but have no control over which option shows up when I select. I have not played with that too much, but will take a look.

[witschey]

@witschey....I reloaded your Rom and set it up the way I had before. I had stated previously, Showcase 1.0.1b works for me...



Edit: I get you...I get the three choices individually, but have no control over which option shows up when I select. I have not played with that too much, but will take a look.

Thanks a lot for going through the trouble of reloading my ROM and setting it up the way you had it before.

I setup my Showcase the same way you show me in the screen shots, and I can also activate the task manager in the way you describe. However I can not switch between the choices shown on the top bar.

If you look at the screen shots below, several choices are shown on the taskbar (at the very top of the screen). You can see those in the screen show because I am pressing on the top right hand corner while I take the screen shot. However as soon as I remove the stylus (to move to the left and select one of the choices) the choices disappear, which means that I can not select any of them (except the default one which is the one shown on the right). Do you experience the same problem?

By the way, I like the wallpaper image you are using. Is there anyway that you could post a copy?

[mcfarlan]

Yeah...I have the same problem...as soon as you lift the stylus, that's it.

[witschey]

Yeah...I have the same problem...as soon as you lift the stylus, that's it.

Thanks for confirming that we both have the same issue; and thank a lot for the wallpaper!

[witschey]

Version 2 of Bare WM 6.5 build 23034 is available for download

You can dowload version 2 from post #4 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4387679&postcount=4)

[PPCBANDIT]

Thanks - looking forward to try the new version

[jeka777]

Screen shots of the "Vanilla" flavor are here:

Coming Soon!
There is any possibility to see "Vanilla" screenshots?
Thanks.

[witschey]

There is any possibility to see "Vanilla" screenshots?
Thanks.

The Vanilla flavour is identical to the Chocolate flavor but doesn't include the 6 item Communication Manager (uses the one that Microsoft installed by default), and the standard battery indicator. NOTHING else changes.

If you want to see the standard battery indicator and the standard communication manager then check out the vanilla flavor ROM pictures here:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=550256

The communication manager and standard battery indicator on this ROM are identical to the 23038 vanilla pictures shown there.

[mjcalvey]

I've tried out a lot of different ROM's but this one is one of my favorites. I like how clean and simple it is. I also prefer the new layout for 6.5 with the start and X icons at the bottom. I haven't seen many other ROM's use this version though - is it compatible with Touch Flo or other apps, or does the new layout cause incompatibilities with those programs?

[witschey]

I've tried out a lot of different ROM's but this one is one of my favorites. I like how clean and simple it is. I also prefer the new layout for 6.5 with the start and X icons at the bottom. I haven't seen many other ROM's use this version though - is it compatible with Touch Flo or other apps, or does the new layout cause incompatibilities with those programs?

If I knew I would tell you, but I don't use Touch Flo or any other Shell. I switched from WM 6.1 to WM 6.5 because I wanted to get rid of third party Shells so that I could have more RAM available; and less confusion between one shell and the other.

Windows Mobile 6.5 allows you to customize Titanium in many different ways, and even the Start Menu can be changed a bit (for example in this build I chose the Single List layout as opposed to the honey comb or honey comb like patterns. So I don't have a need for a shell; hence I haven't tried any and I can't tell you how it would work with it.

As to other third party applications, I use about 60 applications on my phone, of which only 3 didn't allow me to install them with the normal executable file. However I managed to copy the files from an old backup, create a cab file and the problem was solved.

The only problem that the new layout of builds 23028 and upwards present is that some applications were programmed in a very 'inflexible' way and part of their menu is covered by the new bottom toolbar of WM 6.5. The other problem is that some applications were coded in a way that they relied on the X button on the top right hand corner, and since that was moved to the bottom bar now, they have no close button at all. To solve that problem you need to assign the task manager to a key (I use the PTT key) so that you can invoke the task manager and close the application when you are done.

All those problems will be solved by future releases of the problematic 3rd party software; but it will take a little while before they release new versions, since WM 6.5 is not yet officially launched. I read somewhere that Oct 1st is the date....we'll see if this new date sticks though.

[witschey]

Updated: Titanium Notifications - QVGA Customized

Just a short note to let you guys/gals know that I have updated the Titanium Notifications plugin. You can read all the details, see screen shots and download the cab file here:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4431468&postcount=192

[witschey]

Updated: JML Stocks - QVGA Customized

Just a short note to let you guys/gals know that I have updated the JML Stocks QVGA plugin. You can read all the details,and download the cab file here. Screen shots shown below in order to get you interested.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4434435&postcount=3

[witschey]

Updated: Single List Start Menu with Titanium Looks

Yesterday a breakthrough discovery was found by a fellow xda-developers member which allowed me to fix the Single List Start Menu; so that both portrait and landscape modes are now aligned all the way to the left of the screen.

Previously the landscape mode was aligned to the left, but placed in the middle of the screen in order to avoid a 'ghost' image which appeared when switching from portrait and landscape mode and back to portrait mode.


In addition to that I found the selection image that allows the start menu to finally look the way I have always wanted. It has the same looks as the Titanium screen.

Below you will find some screen shots, and through the following link you can download the installation cab file for the "Single List Start Menu with Titanium Looks"

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4441362&postcount=88

[mcfarlan]

don't know what else you did but V2 Chocolate seems a lot smoother and faster than V1. Good going. Any plans for 23041?

[witschey]

don't know what else you did but V2 Chocolate seems a lot smoother and faster than V1. Good going. Any plans for 23041?

Glad you liked it. Not thinking about 23041 right now because moving from 23028 to 23034 took me a LOT of time and effort (restoring settings of software, and the like).

However if 23041 or a later build solves ALL of the following glitches in 23034 I will jump in and make a new ROM.

- Setting screens that do not fit on the screen (and hence require weird scrolling).

- Stylized selection circles instead of the ugly WIP that they left on 23034 (for example volume dialog)

- Calendar detailed view of entries that show up properly (right now it is sometimes difficult to read the whole sentence without scrolling or moving cursor)

Another great enticement (but not a must have) that would entice me to release a new ROM would be if Microsoft finally releases the media player controls for the lock screen. Right now the layout has hidden codes for it, and there is even images in the original source files; but they do not work. Either Microsoft plans to release a new Media Player that is compatible with the controls or there is some dll missing to make the controls work. Very much looking forward to that new feature.

Hope my first 3 critical points are solved soon. I hate having a ROM that regularly reminds me that it is WIP; and the layout defects do that for me.

[mcfarlan]

I hear you about the improvements. Never noticed the Calendar issue since one of the first things I install is Thumbcal. Did you sort out the SIP issue? I have been using "qvga EZinput2-NoArrow" version with absolutely no issues so far....this one [URL="http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=531315"]

[witschey]

I hear you about the improvements. Never noticed the Calendar issue since one of the first things I install is Thumbcal. Did you sort out the SIP issue? I have been using "qvga EZinput2-NoArrow" version with absolutely no issues so far....this one [URL="http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=531315"]

I noticed the calendar issue today...never before; and I checked it just now and it is gone. So who knows!

Actually I found a keyboard that fits my needs much better than EZ Input. Its called Finger Keyboard and for me:

- It is much nicer looking
- Works better because almost every key has two outputs. The one you get when you press quickly, and the one you get when you press for a longer period of time.

That's the keyboard I recommend for this ROM.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=501122

However, I stress that people should NOT use the SIP assignment software to make it the default. They should use SK Tools. That works like a charm

[mvmpy]

Hi Witchey,

Why don`t you cook your apps into your rom? Don´t get me wrong, I don´t mean to public the rom here, but for yourself. Is there a technical reason fot it (speed, stability, etc.)? Or is it better to just install all apps as cab files into the rom? Just want to know since I am trying to cook on my own. This ROM is great and it gives us plenty of room for thirdparty apps. So if I would use your ROM as a starting point for cooking, will the apps compromise the roms speed or stability?

Sorry for making this so complicated.

[witschey]

Hi Witchey,

Why don`t you cook your apps into your rom? Don´t get me wrong, I don´t mean to public the rom here, but for yourself. Is there a technical reason fot it (speed, stability, etc.)? Or is it better to just install all apps as cab files into the rom? Just want to know since I am trying to cook on my own. This ROM is great and it gives us plenty of room for thirdparty apps. So if I would use your ROM as a starting point for cooking, will the apps compromise the roms speed or stability?

Sorry for making this so complicated.

Hi,

I originally wanted to do that (install all my applications through the ROM). My thinking was "Hey if I have all my applications on the ROM I don't have to do any manual installations", but I later on learned that everything you install through a ROM can be erased; so that prevents you from upgrading to a newer version of third party software, or changing your mind and deciding that you no longer want this or that 3rd party software.

Sometimes you ARE able to install an upgrade, but the files you burned during the ROM will be kept there (can not be erased!), so you end up using twice the space.

The other reason I have decided not to install my applications through the ROM is that all applications installed through the ROM are installed into the Windows directory; making the Widows directory HUGE (if you install too many 3rd party applications through ROM), and slowing down the operating system.

The worst thing is that if you specify that you want the application to be installed in the program files directory (through apps.dat) the program WILL be installed in your chosen program files directory BUT they will also be kept in the Windows directory; which means that you will use TWICE the space on your limited PPC memory.

Therefore I think that there is two critical limitations that would have to be solved before people burn a lot of 3rd party applications through the ROM. They are:

- Allow the cook to specify somehow that an application is to be installed through a cooked ROM; but that internally (on the PPC) it will NOT be stored as ROM, but that it will be instead installed as a removable application.

- Allow the cook to specify that an application is to be stored on a particular directory on the PPC and avoid duplication of files on the Windows directory.

[matt09]

I've been looking for a bare 6.5 rom for the raphael but there doesn't seem to be such a thing all I've found are ones with "minimum applications" installed which isn't bare. Would this work with the Raphael and would anyone know the registry tweak to get the qwerty keyboard to work?

Thanks

[witschey]

I've been looking for a bare 6.5 rom for the raphael but there doesn't seem to be such a thing all I've found are ones with "minimum applications" installed which isn't bare. Would this work with the Raphael and would anyone know the registry tweak to get the qwerty keyboard to work?

Thanks

This ROM has QVGA graphics ONLY, so if the Raphael has the same screen resolution it has a good chance of working. I can't say it for sure because I don't know if the XIP files are different between them, but perhaps somebody else can answer that question.

[matt09]

Oh, no it is proper VGA does anyone have any idea how to edit this?

[witschey]

Bare WM 6.5 23034 is the most popular among the tree.




Of the three Bare ROMs that I have released 23009 has been the popularity leader for a long time. That is until today! 23034 has finally taken over, and in my opinion with very good cause. Having used version 23034 for many days now, I can say that it is as stable as my 23009 version; but offers a faster interface and other nice features. So in my oppinion this is the best version so far.

Somebody asked me about version 23041 a few days ago and they captured my attention. However after extensive research yesteday I found that ROM to be full of controversy. The ROM doesn't have the 96 dpi files that we need for the Kaiser, meaning that in order to get it to work one needs to use files that have been modified by a 3rd party and not Microsoft. There has also been rumors (not sure if they are true) that it may be a fake build. The xda-developers administrator removed links to the source files as a result of an alleged letter received by Microsoft claiming copyright infrindgement, etc.

Therefore I have decided NOT to release a new ROM at this time. I am going to wait until a newer build of WM 6.5 is released where the 96 dpi files are built into it. Since Microsoft is planning to release so called 'Windows Phones' on Oct 6st I think it shouldn't be long before we see another build of WM 6.5; after all the phones need to be loaded with the operating system, shipped to distributors (for the most part from China) and everything else before Oct 1st, so my guess is that WM 6.5 needs to be finalized within a maximum of a 2 weeks; or Microsoft won't make the Oct 1st deadline.

[witschey]

Released: Bare WM 6.5 23409 Cooked ROM with unnecessary items removed ~ Witschey

If you want the latest version check out WM 6.5 build 23409. I posted a Bare ROM version on this thread:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=556293

[mjcalvey]

I've started to notice a Windows pop-up titled Check for updates! I haven't seen this before on other ROM's I've used, or even from this ROM until now. The notification basically prompts you to connect your phone to a windows based PC to check for updates. Clicking next brings you to Phone Updates page with a check box for I'll connect now. As the only update I plan on giving this is a new ROM eventually, I'm wondering if there is a way to disable this?

[witschey]

I've started to notice a Windows pop-up titled Check for updates! I haven't seen this before on other ROM's I've used, or even from this ROM until now. The notification basically prompts you to connect your phone to a windows based PC to check for updates. Clicking next brings you to Phone Updates page with a check box for I'll connect now. As the only update I plan on giving this is a new ROM eventually, I'm wondering if there is a way to disable this?

Yes, I have noticed that pop-up too; not only in build 23034, but also in the newer 23409. These type of pop-ups can normally be disabled though a registry entry, but I don't know how. If you or anybody else finds the answer let me know and I will post the tip on the front page of the thread and integrate the registry entry to disable it in future ROMs.

[witschey]

Most Popular - Bare WM 6.5 23409 Cooked ROM with unnecessary items removed ~ Witschey

The 6.5.23409 ROM became the most popular of the Bare ROM's in just three days. It has the most downloads of any of the ~ Witschey ROM's which means that people are liking it a LOT. Prior to launching the 23409 ROM, the 23034 ROM was the most popular one; but it took weeks for it to get the same amount of downloads that the 23409 ROM has achieved in only three days. If you want to download your own copy and find out if you agree with the huge popularity that it has achieved so far go to:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=556293

[witschey]

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT



Starting with with September 10, 2009 I have decided to consolidate Bare WM 6.5 builds into only one (1) thread. I suggest you subscribe to the following thread to be kept abreast of future updates:

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=4469872&postcount=1

Updates will NO longer be posted on this threat. So if you don't subscribe to the above thread you will miss out on newer Bare WM 6.5 builds.

For your information I just released build 23047 of this popular ROM. I am very happy with this new build. It is more stable than any of the previous ones, the work in progress selection boxes have been fixed by Microsoft, the Today screen fonts no longer seem to 'fade away' etc. I get the feeling that this is an almost finished product. There is still a a cosmetic glitches, the media controls in the lock screen are still missing, etc. But overall it is much better than any of the previous builds and is a worthwhile upgrade.

Here are some screen shots. if you like them, visit the link shown above to download the new build.

http://clip2net.com/clip/m22632/1252629870-wm-6-5-23047-screen-shots-1-111kb.jpg

[ben90]

Hi,
I am having problem with v23034. Basically it's a great ROM as it works with most application installed. The problem is the time bombed has activated twice. I have to hard reset using the button and re-installed all the application. Is there any ways to manually remove the time bomb?

I have no experience in flashing ROM as this my 1st winmo and the wm6.5 is pre-installed. (Flashing ROM still not an option for me,thanks)

[witschey]

Hi,
I am having problem with v23034. Basically it's a great ROM as it works with most application installed. The problem is the time bombed has activated twice. I have to hard reset using the button and re-installed all the application. Is there any ways to manually remove the time bomb?

I have no experience in flashing ROM as this my 1st winmo and the wm6.5 is pre-installed. (Flashing ROM still not an option for me,thanks)

As far as I know patching a ROM after it has been installed is not possible. The time bomb should NOT have happend and I am suprised it did in your case. I leverage the source files that have been put together by several famous posters in this threads; and I always make sure that the source files I use have been patched for the time bomb. If you are not alone with the time bomb on this build it means that the person who posted the 'time bomed patched' source files made a mistake.

I am not going to fix that problem at this stage because build 23034 is too old. My suggestion is for you to visit the following website where you will find the most recent versions of my bare ROM build. I am going to try to put together build 23071 this weekend, so keep an eye out for that one if you like.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=556293

[Luojani]

Alright, I'll admit that I haven't read through all of the pages yet, but I'm hoping to have a few questions answered before going through the forum.

I want to know if Internet Sharing has been left intact on this ROM, and if the Time Bomb has been noticed within the latest build you have published thus far.

Thanks!

[witschey]

Alright, I'll admit that I haven't read through all of the pages yet, but I'm hoping to have a few questions answered before going through the forum.

I want to know if Internet Sharing has been left intact on this ROM, and if the Time Bomb has been noticed within the latest build you have published thus far.

Thanks!

This is an old build for which no more support is being given. Please visit the following forum which contains the entire 'Bare Rom' listing. Support is only given for the last build and the one that preceded it.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=556293


Time bombs are always removed using the files that are shared within the xda-developers community. If that time bomb patch fails, it will also fail on my ROM. Somebody DID report that build 23034 of my Bare ROM suffered from a time bomb. It should NOT have done that, since I used the time bomb patch that was distributed by reputable sources here. Unfortunately it failed.

I suggest you try out build 23071. I am using that one at the moment. That will be the LAST build I release for at least a couple months because I am tired of having a crippled phone all the time. Build 23071 seems finished, and I am happy with it.

[witschey]

I have replaced my Kaiser with a Rhodium (ATT Tilt 2); so I have stopped all support and follow-up for the Kaiser ROMs that I created before. I am currently using the factory load on my new phone, and I don't really have time to attempt to create a bare ROM version for the ATT Tilt 2, although I would be interested to give it a try one of these days.