UPDATED: [ROOT] How to Install the Google Play Store on Stock 4.5.5.1 -Thor

Search This thread
By:
Advanced…
L

Luxen

Member
Apr 6, 2013
21
11
After this little adventure, I went into further testing. There is now a much simpler method of installing the Google Play Store. Fully functional. Two methods to be exact, and an experimental one.

Method 1) -Recommended if you have Safetrap 4.01
Make sure you have SuperUser (Not tested with Kingroot)
and you are running 4.5.5.1 (It'll probably work in earlier versions.)
Note: I have Superuser installed as a system app for safety.
My device is a Kindle Fire Hdx 7" (3rd gen) Thor.

-You need Safetrap (or head to method 2 for a non safe-trap procedure)
-You need to be rooted
-And you need to download from Open GApps (Platform: ARM Android: 4.4 Variant: Pico < Smallest package)


First, you must make space in System/Priv-app to flash this little package. (< There's no way around this)
I deleted [ moffice, weather, and the android.mail.apk ] (I do not need those. I actually do not need a lot of the amazon services except for books.)

Reboot into Safetrap and flash/Install the opengapps package.
Wipe Dalvik/Cache. Reboot
> If you get a "Failed" - It means you need to delete more apps.
Make sure the message reads "Insufficient space, etc" and not "incompatible,"

If you are successful, reboot.
Open the Google Play Store and simply sign in with your account. You are done.
I haven't experienced any crashing. nada.
Use Market helper for incompatible app (Although inbox by gmail isn't working for me, everything else is.)

Method 2) Recommended if you don't have Safe trap.
You might need to delete some apps from system/priv-app if you get "Insufficient space error" <For me, I didn't have to delete anything.>

You do not need Safetrap.
-You need Root and you need to follow the method described here, but with a little tweak:
Move all the apps mentioned in the guide to System/Priv-app > Account And Sync Settings, Google Services Framework, Google Login Service, and Vending.apk)
Install Google Play Services from your downloads (Normal Install) < I am using the latest ones I got off Google.>
Reboot.
Open the android market (in apps) and sign in. <
Download the latest Google Play Store (from the guide or Google)
I renamed it vending.apk for short.
Delete the vending.apk found in System/Priv-app and replace with the new one.
Reboot.
Google Play Store is functional and shouldn't crash.
--------------------------
(I highly recommend a Custom ROM. The quality and functionality can not be beaten..)

Update: Now that the kindle app on android supports exporting highlights from personal docs/side-loaded books, etc.. I've made the full switch to CM11 :)


------

Not recommended.
The method below is now experimental. I couldn't get it to reproduce after replacing Kinguser With SuperSu.
This is a fully functional Playstore. You can search, download and update :)

Tested on:
Kindle Fire HDX 7" (3rd Gen) running 4.5.5.1 w/ Kingroot

* No one is more responsible for your device than you. With that in mind, back up, read carefully, don't go the extra mile just because, and be aware there is always a risk. On to the fun stuff~

You will need:
-Root
-Safetrap v4
-All 4 apks from here (Skip all the instructions there and scroll to where it says —Then install these apks—

You also need the Google Apps Minimal Edition from here.

----INSTRUCTIONS
-Move all 4 apks to sdcard/download and install each one.
-Move your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip to sdcard/download and keep it there.

Reboot into Safetrap.
* Make sure you have a backup of your STOCK Rom !
Go to Install > Find your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip and install it.
From the same screen once you are done wipe dalvik/cache

Reboot.
You might run into a gray screen ? Hit the home button. It is a one time thing.
Login to your existing Google account. You'll notice the App Store will crash after a minute.
Reboot. That's it. Playstore shouldn't crash anymore.

#If it works for other devices, versions, let me know. Thank you.
I tested it on my own device, and downloaded a couple of apps. If something changes I will update this.

Update: You can find the latest Google Play Store and Services here. Uninstalling both items is necessary to install the new version then you can use ccleaner to remove any Google app that says 'newer version installed'
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: tvd0405, mxnerd, Vanb85 and 2 others
V

Vanb85

Member
Apr 22, 2015
46
8
I did method 2. This absolutely worked. I'm especially pleased, because I kept seeing that I would need Safestrap and a custom ROM in order to get the Play Store on my HDX 7. So, thanks for the instructions.
 
T

talkslow4me

Member
May 16, 2016
5
0
If I used Kingroot to root my device can I still use method 2?
Also can I use twrp instead of safestrap? I have no idea what each one does what.

I rooted my tablet (HDX 7 4.5.5.1) using Kingroot, and my ultimate goal is to use google services and youtube properly. And change the OS (Is Nexus rom a good idea?)

Thanks for any help guys.
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
talkslow4me said:
If I used Kingroot to root my device can I still use method 2?
Also can I use twrp instead of safestrap? I have no idea what each one does what.

I rooted my tablet (HDX 7 4.5.5.1) using Kingroot, and my ultimate goal is to use google services and youtube properly. And change the OS (Is Nexus rom a good idea?)

Thanks for any help guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- no twrp, only safestrap v4 (which limits roms to cm11 and HDX Nexus)
- Google Services does not play well with FireOS v4. Strongly encourage custom rom if Google/YouTube is the end game
- YouTube via browser is also an option. Opera works well (as do others). Need to sideload via Opera home page or Apkmirror.
 
  • Like
Reactions: talkslow4me
M

mohzean

Senior Member
Sep 4, 2007
50
1
Hello
I went through Method 2, but can't get google service running.
There's one step that I could not understand, moving the apk files to system/priv-ap, why do we have to do so?

Thank you
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
mohzean said:
Hello
I went through Method 2, but can't get google service running.
There's one step that I could not understand, moving the apk files to system/priv-ap, why do we have to do so?

Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Play Services and FireOS v4 simply do not get along. This is just one of many threads that suggest an integration methodology that yields a suboptimal experience or (more commonly) a crippled device. Bite the bullet and go with Safestrap v4 and a compatible custom rom (cm11 or HDX Nexus).
 
M

mxnerd

Senior Member
Jul 18, 2010
61
6
Thanks Luxen!!! It works perfectly! Device: Kindle Fire HDX 7" gen 3.

I used method 1.

Installed Kingroot, SuperSU, Safestrap, removed several APKs (MOffice (WPS Office), Cannon, EPSON, HP, Weather) from System/Priv-app using Total Commander (ASTRO file manager does not work) to make spaces, applied Pico OpenGApps, wipe Dalvik/Cache, reboot.

Then boom, it just works, no errors, no nothing! Updated all google apps. Everything works!

Can't thank you enough, great jobs!

Best,
 
Last edited:
L

Luxen

Member
Apr 6, 2013
21
11
mxnerd said:
Thanks Luxen!!! It works perfectly! Device: Kindle Fire HDX 7" gen 3.

I used method 1.

Installed Kingroot, SuperSU, Safestrap, removed several APKs (MOffice (WPS Office), Cannon, EPSON, HP, Weather) from System/Priv-app using Total Commander (ASTRO file manager does not work) to make spaces, applied Pico OpenGApps, wipe Dalvik/Cache, reboot.

Then boom, it just works, no errors, no nothing! Updated all google apps. Everything works!

Can't thank you enough, great jobs!

Best,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I am glad it worked out for you. Believe it or not, since I did method 1, I am still running my custom rom since that very day. Stable and smooth sailing.
 
L

Luxen

Member
Apr 6, 2013
21
11
Vanb85 said:
I did method 2. This absolutely worked. I'm especially pleased, because I kept seeing that I would need Safestrap and a custom ROM in order to get the Play Store on my HDX 7. So, thanks for the instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

This is the reason I tried to experiment with several different methods. I knew there are some users that are not interested or are too intimidated by Safetrap/Custom Roms, so I am glad it worked for you! :good:
 
L

leigh80

New member
Jul 4, 2016
4
0
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow. :(
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
leigh80 said:
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow. :(
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several ways to copy/move files in ES File Explorer. Perhaps easiest is to long file and scan options that pop-up (varies by version and config) for 'copy', 'move', 'copy to', etc. If nothing obvious check in 3-dot menu. Then navigate to target folder and tap 'paste'. Multiple files can be selected and copied at once.

If the files reside on your computer you should be able to copy/move using the same technique. Or simply download the directly to your device using the built-in Silk browser then move to target folder using ES File Explorer.

Might want to consider a custom ROM which has the Play Store built-in. While Amazon and Google components get along better in FireOS 5.x it is never a happy marriage with occasional glitches as versions of both change over time.
 
  • Like
Reactions: leigh80
L

leigh80

New member
Jul 4, 2016
4
0
Thank you Davey126. I will give that a try. I have debated installing a custom rom, but fear that may be a little beyond my capabilities. I am struggling enough just getting Google Play on it. :) I am use to Android, so it has been hard to adjust to how locked down the Kindle is. Maybe if I come across some instructions I can easily follow, I will finally give that a custom rom a try.
 
Ali Ejea Mc

Ali Ejea Mc

Senior Member
Sep 14, 2014
63
8
leigh80 said:
I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow. :(
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually you need to turn ON the ROOT EXPLORER option from TOOLS on Es File Explorer. to do so... Tap on TOOLS > ROOT EXPLORER > MOUNT RW and then mark all 4 options on right side (under RW) and tap on OK. doing so you will be able to move, copy and delete files/apks from/to System folders.
 
K

kyoceralover

Member
Feb 22, 2015
44
6
Hi @Luxen and everyone! I have a Kindle Fire HD 7 3rd generation running Fire OS 4.5.5 (Aug. 2015) and want to install Google Play Store on it. After searching for several hours, I can't find any worked method since all threads I found are outdated and people reported they were no longer working. I'm wondering if the method in this thread can work with my Kindle? Thank you!
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
kyoceralover said:
Hi @Luxen and everyone! I have a Kindle Fire HD 7 3rd generation running Fire OS 4.5.5 (Aug. 2015) and want to install Google Play Store on it. After searching for several hours, I can't find any worked method since all threads I found are outdated and people reported they were no longer working. I'm wondering if the method in this thread can work with my Kindle? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In general Amazon and Google components do not play well on FireOS v4.x. It can be made to work...sort of...but tends to be susceptible when Play components auto update which happens frequently. A more reliable approach is to install a custom rom (CM11 or Nexus) that natively supports Google Play Framework, Services and Store.

If you opt to go this route the following thread may be of interest: http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
 
  • Like
Reactions: kyoceralover
K

kyoceralover

Member
Feb 22, 2015
44
6
Google Play Store for Kindle Fire HD 7 (2013) 3rd gen on Fire OS 4.5.5

Davey126 said:
In general Amazon and Google components do not play well on FireOS v4.x. It can be made to work...sort of...but tends to be susceptible when Play components auto update which happens frequently. A more reliable approach is to install a custom rom (CM11 or Nexus) that natively supports Google Play Framework, Services and Store.

If you opt to go this route the following thread may be of interest: http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Great! Thank you very much! I'll try what sd_shadow suggest first

I believe that 4.5.5 can be rooted with kingroot
KingRoot thread
then see rootjunky's supersume video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3O3DcpeS_Ic
or manually install supersu with a terminal emulator
http://www.w0lfdroid.com/2015/05/How...h-SuperSU.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

then flash mine to CM11/Nexus
 
M

mckev24

Member
Apr 4, 2013
17
2
New here

I have the Fire HDX 7" 3rd gen and was wanting to make it a true Android tablet due to Amazon not updating it further. I have read post after post and I am so confused as to where to even begin. I know it needs to be rooted and a custom ROM installed, I just wish there was one place I could find step by step instructions to do so. I'd rather have Fire OS than have an usable tablet. Maybe I just need to give up trying to do it.
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
mckev24 said:
I have the Fire HDX 7" 3rd gen and was wanting to make it a true Android tablet due to Amazon not updating it further. I have read post after post and I am so confused as to where to even begin. I know it needs to be rooted and a custom ROM installed, I just wish there was one place I could find step by step instructions to do so. I'd rather have Fire OS than have an usable tablet. Maybe I just need to give up trying to do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take a peek at this thread to get a sense of what's involved. Not a step by step guide by any means but touches on the highlights. Post back with any immediate questions.

http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
 
  • Like
Reactions: mckev24
M

mckev24

Member
Apr 4, 2013
17
2
Davey126 said:
Take a peek at this thread to get a sense of what's involved. Not a step by step guide by any means but touches on the highlights. Post back with any immediate questions.

http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I download ES file explorer from the Amazonn app store or should it be downloaded elsewhere? I have downloaded and installed KingRoot, but I haven't ran it as of yet.

Also wanted to say thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
 
DB126

DB126

Senior Member
Oct 15, 2013
15,362
10,174
mckev24 said:
Can I download ES file explorer from the Amazonn app store or should it be downloaded elsewhere? I have downloaded and installed KingRoot, but I haven't ran it as of yet.

Also wanted to say thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how current the version in the Amazon App store is. Best grab a copy from here.

Tip: If unsure post any questions you may have before acting. HDX is a touchy device; easy to brick and hard (often impossible) to recover if you stray too far off the trail. Several great folks monitor these forums and can help as needed.
 
  • Like
Reactions: mckev24
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

Android Cowboy
How to Install Google Play Store
Replies
152
Views
255K
DB126
DB126
Angel0fDeath
[ROOT][HOW TO] Install Google Play Store
Replies
191
Views
159K
DB126
DB126
ONYXis
[Thor][Apollo] Unlocking bootloader with any firmware
Replies
1K
Views
286K
madmamadma
madmamadma
ONYXis
[Rollback][Downgrade][Thor][Apollo] 3.2.8 rollback-OTA captured
Replies
807
Views
209K
Z
zchtoy
ONYXis
Stock firmwares for Kindle Fire HDX (Thor-Apollo)
Replies
199
Views
130K
K
kkcheong

Top Liked Posts

24 Hours All time
  • There are no posts matching your filters.
  • 5
    L
    Luxen
    After this little adventure, I went into further testing. There is now a much simpler method of installing the Google Play Store. Fully functional. Two methods to be exact, and an experimental one.

    Method 1) -Recommended if you have Safetrap 4.01
    Make sure you have SuperUser (Not tested with Kingroot)
    and you are running 4.5.5.1 (It'll probably work in earlier versions.)
    Note: I have Superuser installed as a system app for safety.
    My device is a Kindle Fire Hdx 7" (3rd gen) Thor.

    -You need Safetrap (or head to method 2 for a non safe-trap procedure)
    -You need to be rooted
    -And you need to download from Open GApps (Platform: ARM Android: 4.4 Variant: Pico < Smallest package)


    First, you must make space in System/Priv-app to flash this little package. (< There's no way around this)
    I deleted [ moffice, weather, and the android.mail.apk ] (I do not need those. I actually do not need a lot of the amazon services except for books.)

    Reboot into Safetrap and flash/Install the opengapps package.
    Wipe Dalvik/Cache. Reboot
    > If you get a "Failed" - It means you need to delete more apps.
    Make sure the message reads "Insufficient space, etc" and not "incompatible,"

    If you are successful, reboot.
    Open the Google Play Store and simply sign in with your account. You are done.
    I haven't experienced any crashing. nada.
    Use Market helper for incompatible app (Although inbox by gmail isn't working for me, everything else is.)

    Method 2) Recommended if you don't have Safe trap.
    You might need to delete some apps from system/priv-app if you get "Insufficient space error" <For me, I didn't have to delete anything.>

    You do not need Safetrap.
    -You need Root and you need to follow the method described here, but with a little tweak:
    Move all the apps mentioned in the guide to System/Priv-app > Account And Sync Settings, Google Services Framework, Google Login Service, and Vending.apk)
    Install Google Play Services from your downloads (Normal Install) < I am using the latest ones I got off Google.>
    Reboot.
    Open the android market (in apps) and sign in. <
    Download the latest Google Play Store (from the guide or Google)
    I renamed it vending.apk for short.
    Delete the vending.apk found in System/Priv-app and replace with the new one.
    Reboot.
    Google Play Store is functional and shouldn't crash.
    --------------------------
    (I highly recommend a Custom ROM. The quality and functionality can not be beaten..)

    Update: Now that the kindle app on android supports exporting highlights from personal docs/side-loaded books, etc.. I've made the full switch to CM11 :)


    ------

    Not recommended.
    The method below is now experimental. I couldn't get it to reproduce after replacing Kinguser With SuperSu.
    This is a fully functional Playstore. You can search, download and update :)

    Tested on:
    Kindle Fire HDX 7" (3rd Gen) running 4.5.5.1 w/ Kingroot

    * No one is more responsible for your device than you. With that in mind, back up, read carefully, don't go the extra mile just because, and be aware there is always a risk. On to the fun stuff~

    You will need:
    -Root
    -Safetrap v4
    -All 4 apks from here (Skip all the instructions there and scroll to where it says —Then install these apks—

    You also need the Google Apps Minimal Edition from here.

    ----INSTRUCTIONS
    -Move all 4 apks to sdcard/download and install each one.
    -Move your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip to sdcard/download and keep it there.

    Reboot into Safetrap.
    * Make sure you have a backup of your STOCK Rom !
    Go to Install > Find your Google Apps Minimal Edition.zip and install it.
    From the same screen once you are done wipe dalvik/cache

    Reboot.
    You might run into a gray screen ? Hit the home button. It is a one time thing.
    Login to your existing Google account. You'll notice the App Store will crash after a minute.
    Reboot. That's it. Playstore shouldn't crash anymore.

    #If it works for other devices, versions, let me know. Thank you.
    I tested it on my own device, and downloaded a couple of apps. If something changes I will update this.

    Update: You can find the latest Google Play Store and Services here. Uninstalling both items is necessary to install the new version then you can use ccleaner to remove any Google app that says 'newer version installed'
    View
    1
    DB126
    DB126
    talkslow4me said:
    If I used Kingroot to root my device can I still use method 2?
    Also can I use twrp instead of safestrap? I have no idea what each one does what.

    I rooted my tablet (HDX 7 4.5.5.1) using Kingroot, and my ultimate goal is to use google services and youtube properly. And change the OS (Is Nexus rom a good idea?)

    Thanks for any help guys.
    Click to expand...
    Click to collapse
    - no twrp, only safestrap v4 (which limits roms to cm11 and HDX Nexus)
    - Google Services does not play well with FireOS v4. Strongly encourage custom rom if Google/YouTube is the end game
    - YouTube via browser is also an option. Opera works well (as do others). Need to sideload via Opera home page or Apkmirror.
    View
    1
    DB126
    DB126
    leigh80 said:
    I was wondering if anyone could help me a little bit with option 2 in the op's post? I am not the most tech savvy person in the world, so I am struggling a little with it. I have Kindle HDX 7 (3rd gen). I have managed to root using Kingroot. I attempted installing Google store. Got all the files downloaded and I thought installed accurately, but it would never let me sign in. I uninstalled and was going to retry using method 2 above that says move the files to system/private app before installing. I can't figure out how to get them from download to there though. I have ES File Explorer, but downloaded the recommended WIFI Explorer Pro to see file structure on my computer. Tried dragging and dropping and that did not work. Any advice? The instructions for #2 have not been the easiest for me to follow. :(
    Click to expand...
    Click to collapse
    Several ways to copy/move files in ES File Explorer. Perhaps easiest is to long file and scan options that pop-up (varies by version and config) for 'copy', 'move', 'copy to', etc. If nothing obvious check in 3-dot menu. Then navigate to target folder and tap 'paste'. Multiple files can be selected and copied at once.

    If the files reside on your computer you should be able to copy/move using the same technique. Or simply download the directly to your device using the built-in Silk browser then move to target folder using ES File Explorer.

    Might want to consider a custom ROM which has the Play Store built-in. While Amazon and Google components get along better in FireOS 5.x it is never a happy marriage with occasional glitches as versions of both change over time.
    View
    1
    DB126
    DB126
    kyoceralover said:
    Hi @Luxen and everyone! I have a Kindle Fire HD 7 3rd generation running Fire OS 4.5.5 (Aug. 2015) and want to install Google Play Store on it. After searching for several hours, I can't find any worked method since all threads I found are outdated and people reported they were no longer working. I'm wondering if the method in this thread can work with my Kindle? Thank you!
    Click to expand...
    Click to collapse
    In general Amazon and Google components do not play well on FireOS v4.x. It can be made to work...sort of...but tends to be susceptible when Play components auto update which happens frequently. A more reliable approach is to install a custom rom (CM11 or Nexus) that natively supports Google Play Framework, Services and Store.

    If you opt to go this route the following thread may be of interest: http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
    View
    1
    DB126
    DB126
    mckev24 said:
    I have the Fire HDX 7" 3rd gen and was wanting to make it a true Android tablet due to Amazon not updating it further. I have read post after post and I am so confused as to where to even begin. I know it needs to be rooted and a custom ROM installed, I just wish there was one place I could find step by step instructions to do so. I'd rather have Fire OS than have an usable tablet. Maybe I just need to give up trying to do it.
    Click to expand...
    Click to collapse
    Take a peek at this thread to get a sense of what's involved. Not a step by step guide by any means but touches on the highlights. Post back with any immediate questions.

    http://xdaforums.com/kindle-fire-hdx/help/confused-partially-fire-os-to-proper-rom-t3421623
    View

New posts