[GearCM][i9500][5.1.x] Optimized CyanogenMod 12.1 for Samsung Galaxy S4 [20160220]

Alberto96 · Apr 24, 2015 at 10:02 PM

Use this thread =>http://goo.gl/UFbbzO for questions or discussions.

Only Bug Reports & Feedbacks are allowed here. Penalty: Post Removal by Moderators

CyanogenMod is a free, community built, aftermarket firmware distribution of Android 5.1.x (Lollipop), which is designed to increase performance and reliability over stock Android for your device.

Code:

#include 
/*
 * Your warranty is now void.
 *
 * I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead SD cards,
 * thermonuclear war, or you getting fired because the alarm app failed. Please
 * do some research if you have any concerns about features included in this ROM
 * before flashing it! YOU are choosing to make these modifications, and if
 * you point the finger at me for messing up your device, I will laugh at you.
 */

CyanogenMod is based on the Android Open Source Project with extra contributions from many people within the Android community. It can be used without any need to have any Google application installed. Linked below is a package that has come from another Android project that restore the Google parts. CyanogenMod does still include various hardware-specific code, which is also slowly being open-sourced anyway.

All the source code for CyanogenMod is available in the CyanogenMod Github repo. And if you would like to contribute to CyanogenMod, please visit out Gerrit Code Review. You can also view the Changelog for a full list of changes & features.

ROM Downloads

All not-working RenderServer hosted files can be found here: https://androidfilehost.com/user/?w=settings-dev-files&flid=50874

<< Stable >>

20160220 Build: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24421527759883766

<< Misc. (Recovery/Modem/Bootloader) >>

GearRecovery 20160220 (Flashable ZIP): https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24421527759883765 <= Required for Official GearCM Support

GearRecovery 20160220 (Odin Package): https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24421527759885452 <= Use if you are not able to flash the .zip or if you don't have any custom recovery installed on your device

I9500XXUHOG2 LL Modem (Flashable ZIP): https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24421527759883761 <= Latest Modem, Recommended

Partial I9500XXUHOL1 Odin Upgrader (includes OL1 Bootloader & OG2 Modem): https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24421527759885454 <= Recommended if you don't have a recent - XXUHOD4 or newer - LL Bootloader installed on your device

Previous Releases:

Google Apps (add-on)

http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/tk-gapps-t3116347 <== Recommended <> Micro/Mini Modular Package. Do not choose Stock

Installation

3-button-combo = "Volume Up/+" + "Home/Center" + "Power/Lock"

- First time flashing GearCM 12.1 to your Galaxy S4 (or coming from TouchWiz/Stock Based ROMs)?

Root your device and install latest GearRecovery
Reboot into Recovery using 3-button-combo
Do a Backup!
WIPE (wipe data/factory reset + wipe cache partition + format /system partition)
Install the ROM from internal/external sdcard
Optionally install Google Addon
Done! You can now reboot the phone to enjoy the rom

- Upgrading from Official CM10.2/CM11/CM12 or GearCM 11/12?

Reboot into Recovery using 3-button-combo
Do a Backup!
Install latest GearRecovery
Reboot into new Recovery using 3-button-combo (if needed)
WIPE (wipe data/factory reset + wipe cache partition + format /system partition)
Install the ROM from internal/external sdcard
Optionally install the Google Addon
Done! You can now reboot the phone to enjoy the rom

- Upgrading from another build of GearCM 12.1?

Reboot into Recovery using 3-button-combo
Do a Backup!
Install latest GearRecovery
Reboot into new Recovery using 3-button-combo (if needed)
Install the ROM from internal/external sdcard
WIPE Dalvik/ART Cache (wipe cache partition + wipe dalvik cache)
Done! You can now reboot the phone to enjoy the rom

Known Issues (regarding latest available Stable build)
Please do not report bugs if it is already listen in the list of known issues

Current Audio HAL doesn't properly wake up audio devices from standby, causing issues with some VOIP apps. Check FAQ for Workaround -- WIP | Highest Priority -- #1
While in-call (on second call) using headphones/headset, audio could be routed to the Earpiece. Enable/Disable Speaker or Plug Out/In the Audio Jack to fix it. (Probably linked to #1) -- WIP | High Priority --
While in-call using earpiece the receiver will hear a little echo effect if volume is set to maximum. Reduce volume to fix it. -- WIP | Medium-High Priority --
After each boot Camera won't take pictures on first start. You'll need to close the app and re-open it to get Camera working. -- WIP | Medium Priority --
Wireless Display with some TVs (HDCP-dependent ones) could cause issues (AOSP bug related to HDCP. Google doesn't provide a solution) -- Unknown Status | Low Priority --
Rarely, when you wake-up the device, the touchscreen could have a noticeable input lag, easily fixable by turning off and on the display. (H/W or S/W bug?) -- Probably won't be fixed | Undefined Priority --

Reporting Bugs

First of all, read this: http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/bugs

You are allowed to report bugs only in this thread. Before reporting a bug, please make sure you are running as stock as possible. This means no custom kernel, no custom framework modification, etc. If you are using any of the above modifications, please flash the rom again to get rid of the modifications before reporting.

REPORT BUGS IN THIS THREAD ONLY

Grab a logcat right after the problem has occurred. (Please include at least a few pages of the log, not just the last few lines, unless you know what you're doing.)
If it is a random reboot, grab /proc/last_kmsg. (Do not bother getting a logcat unless you can get it just before the reboot. A logcat after a reboot is useless)
If the problem disappears after running "setenforce 0" from a root shell, grab /data/misc/audit/audit.log

Remember to provide as much info as possible. The more info you provide, the more likely that the bug will be solved. The following is a useful format to follow. Note: If you can provide the latest night/build that the bug didn't exist, it would greatly help in tracking down what caused it.

Code:

What is your--
Phone model:
Radio (baseband) version:
GearCM version:
GearCM download url:
Google Apps version:

Did you--
wipe data/factory reset:
restore with titanium backup:
reboot after having the issue:

Are you using--
a task killer:
a non-stock kernel:
CMSettings/Performance Settings (other than stock):
other modifications:
Provide any additional information (observations/frequency of problem/last version it worked on/etc) as needed:

Changelog

20160220:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed WiFi Power Off issue (testing required)
Updated proprietaries from latest OL1 release
Reduced debug stuff to improve performance
Added some little fixes here and there
Temp. removed OTA Updates app until i manage to find a better file hosting website
RECOVERY: rebased on TWRP 3.0.0.0
KERNEL: improved WiFi management

Previous Releases:

20151212:

Updated CM Sources
Increased Camera Stability (do not expect something 100% Stable)
Optimized ART Management
Fixed Wi-Fi Channel issues (forced US Country Code that brings almost all channels)
Fixed Wi-Fi Performance issues on screen-off (power saving management is now static)
seLinux Policies are now almost perfect, only Synapse forces us to use permissive mode (due to neverallow rules)
Added some minor fixes here and there
SYNAPSE: added Wi-Fi Power Saving management
KERNEL: added some updates from Android M

20151115:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Camera issue on boot (feedback required)
Improved Camera Stability (a lot)
Using proper Flashlight implementation (takes more or less 3 seconds to turn on now. Same as on my Nexus 4)
Increased microphones volume
Improved RIL stability
Enhanced ROM Security

20151101:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Camcorder mic. routing
Improved Audio HAL stability
Using proper mic. routing for Voice Recording
Updated some proprietaries from OI1 Release
Using proper manual network search fix
Fixed some RIL (l2_hsic) wakelocks caused by unsupported requests
Improved Camera Stability
KERNEL: added some updates from upstream
KERNEL: improved Wi-Fi Stability

20151025:

Updated CM Sources
Optimized Microphones Volume (should fix low earpiece volume while in loud env. and reduce echo effect)
Applied lots of fixes to Audio HAL (VOIP and Headset bugs are still here)
Audio Mixer is now managed as is on Stock ROM (nearly identical)
Fixed Performance profile (again), shouldn't cause anymore sudden shutdowns/reboots due to High CPU temp.
Improved RIL management
KERNEL: properly set maximum readahead

20151018:

Updated CM Sources (based on latest android security patches)
Reduced in-call echo effect for some users (WIP)
KERNEL: fixed random reboots caused by cfg80211 driver
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes blinks without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20151010:

Updated CM Sources (based on latest android security patches)
Fixed In-Call Wide/Narrow Band switching (any modem can now be used)
Increased Microphones Volume
In-Call Echo-Cancellation is now completely working
Improved In-Call audio quality
Improved Audio Driver management
Improved BT A2DP Stability with some devices
NOTICE: Wipe OTA Updates app data to get latest build
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes blinks without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20151003:

Updated CM Sources
Re-worked In-Call echo cancellation management
Improved Sound Card management (BT is now using proper values)
Reduced In-Call Headset noise
Updated Radio binary to OH7 version
Added proper Bluetooth vendor information
OTA: this build won't have ota direct link due to broken RenderServer FTP access
RECOVERY: GearRecovery 20151003 based on latest changes
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes blinks without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150928:

Updated CM Sources
Added QuickBoot support (not enabled by default, check developer options) - Credits @arter97
Fixed Microphone with Headphones (not Headset, Headphones don't have a mic)
Enabled proper echo cancellation and noise suppression to Microphone
Faster boot and optimization of apps
Properly fixed volume buttons to wake up the device
Fixed some GPS instabilities for some users
WiFi has been stabilized even more
Improved Performance and Smoothness here and there
Enabled SELinux as Permissive (Enforcing would break Synapse and require too much work to fix many little issues)
KERNEL: fixed some instabilities that could cause random reboots for some users
KERNEL: improved mmc wakelocks management
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes blinks without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150922:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Mobile Data (downgraded to KK RIL, still better than previous JB RIL though)
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes blinks without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150920:

Updated CM Sources
Improved compatibility with BT Accessories (such as Headsets, Headphones, Carkits, etc...)
Removed Battery LED low power mode (now there's always full brightness)
Switched to latest Lollipop RIL (thx @modpunk)
Improved compatibility with Chinese modems (workaround is still required)
Improved WiFi stability with some networks
Enhanced Network (Mobile Data and WiFi) performance
Reduced screen-on/screen-off delay to the max
Enhanced FileSystems stability (there's now a good compromise between stability and performance)
Improved Camera stability (it shouldn't hang anymore after some runs)
Properly configured Video Encoding/Decoding values
SYNAPSE: removed not working and useless features
SYNAPSE: improved start-up time
KERNEL: using new WiFi country code table
KERNEL: enabled F2FS check support
RECOVERY: there are too many changes, i can only say that it is now working PERFECT
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150916:

Updated CM Sources
Removed Advanced Display app (all has been moved to Synapse and native Settings)
Improved stability with JPEG stuff ( @dandemonic , please test this build )
Improved UI Smoothness
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150914:

Updated CM Sources
Switched to BFQ I/O Scheduler
Removed some useless stuff here and there
Improved compatibility with defective batteries
Enabled auto-brightness while in doze mode
Reduced maximum users limit
KERNEL: added BFQ I/O Scheduler support
KERNEL: fixed wifi suspend issues (causing low performance and loss of connections)
KERNEL: added some updates
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150910:

Updated CM Sources
SYNAPSE: added screen resolution switch feature
KERNEL: some updates here and there
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150906:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed random reboot issues, be sure to wipe "Synapse" app data.
GearRecovery 20150906 has been released
KERNEL: enabled l2_hsic & Software CRC by default
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150904:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Wi-Fi 5GHz
Fixed all instabilities (MP3, reboots...)
Fixed wrong HWUI config.
Improved SQL/Database performance
Improved GPS signal stability
Using proper audio values for some paths
Improved Smoothness here and there
GearRecovery 20150904 has been released
KERNEL: back to XZ compression to fix recovery image size
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150901:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Wi-Fi instabilities
Removed Boot Animation micro-lags
Enabled adjustable LEDs brightness
Improved Performance on big.LITTLE architecture
KERNEL: remove broken CIFS support
ALERT: Battery LED sometimes flashes without any valid reason, please ignore this bug until it gets fixed. (CM Sources related)

20150830:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Bluetooth SCO Audio
Fixed Battery Charging LED
Fixed interferences with Google Now Voice Recognition
Added support for Chinese modems (you need to manually set a flag, check FAQ)

20150829:

Updated CM Sources
Disabled broken WiFi EAP support
KERNEL: enabled CIFS & NFS support

20150828:

Updated CM Sources
Increased Video Quality (no more pixelated)
There shouldn't be anymore rare problems with MP3 files
Increased Stability
KERNEL: remove recommended aosp values (fixes mobile data)

20150827:

Updated CM Sources
Added source-compiled Memory Tracker HAL
Disabled legacy DRM stuff (please test any DRM app and let me know if they are still working)
Optimized Wi-Fi Configuration (up-to-date with latest Nexus devices)
Disabled Home Button while in-call
Optimized I/O Performance (on both EXT4 & F2FS)
Optimized Battery Modes (Power save doesn't cause crashes anymore and Performance profile doesn't kill anymore your device )
Using proper Wi-Fi HW Configuration (now each device will use proper config, based on its board)
Fixed in-call audio on first call after every boot (using another workaround)
Added MPEG1 HW Decoding support
Increased Photo Quality
Using proper software decoders/encoders for our device
Added Direct Download support to OTA Updates
Added AAC 5.1 Output support (through HDMI/Dock)
Disabled useless Bluetooth client features (we need to act as a server, not as a client)
Restored stock in-call animations (less smooth than before, but faster)
Enabled "Prevent accidental wake-ups" feature (not by default, due to defective proximity sensors)
Enabled proper Wi-Fi EAP support (please test it)
Disabled some useless features here and there
Enabled preferred install location option
Disabled HDCP by default (should fix wireless display issues with some TVs)
Enabled some interesting CM hidden features here and there
KERNEL: added updates from latest android-3.4 AOSP branch
KERNEL: switched to LZO compression for much faster boot process
KERNEL: fixed some little issues that could crash the device
KERNEL: fixed wrong MTP device naming
KERNEL: enabled/disabled features as recommended by AOSP config.

20150820:

Updated CM Sources
Restored HDMI Audio
Removed MP3 HW Decoder
KERNEL: improved performance and code optimization

20150819:

Updated CM Sources
Updated AOSP Sources (5.1.1_r13)
Stabler Bluetooth SCO Audio
Enabled HW MPEG2/MP3/VP8/WMV Decoders
Improved Performance and Stability (even more)
KERNEL: fixed EHCI wake-up bug (thx dandemonic for bug report)
KERNEL: reduced useless dw_mmc verbosity
KERNEL: updated net stuff

20150816:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Inverted Colors bug everywhere (Screencast, Wireless Display...)
Enhanced VOIP Microphone Volume
Improved Performance
KERNEL: updated network stuff

20150815:

Updated CM Sources
TEST: Fixed VOIP apps
Stabilized Bluetooth SCO, but not completely
Switched back to Open-Source OMX Codecs
Fixed, again, manual operator search. (some of the CM Updates broke it)
Added GearCM denomination
KERNEL: reduced charge current while screen is on
KERNEL: decreased maximum CPU temp. (no more 100c using Balanced Battery Mode)
KERNEL: fixed USB Mass Storage (testers required)

20150811:

Updated CM Sources
Enhanced Microphone Volumes
Killed l2_hsic modem wakelock
Improved Battery Life
Allowed Low Latency audio access to third-party apps
Improved InCallUI Performance

20150810:

Updated CM Sources
Enhanced Audio Input/Output values (Speaker, Microphones, Earpiece).
Reduced/Fixed Echo in-call
mDNIe set to Auto by default
Fixed VOIP apps such as Skype (testers required)
SYNAPSE: removed CPU/GPU Overclock
KERNEL: using whole new kernel, based on latest CM repo plus my optimizations
KERNEL: removed CPU/GPU Overclock
KERNEL: improved Stability, reduced CPU temperature while on Full Load

20150731:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed, and now definitely, sound disappearing bug. If you don't believe me anymore, try this build
Audio Driver Latency has been optimized, now even better
Improved Camera performance

20150729:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed HDMI audio using MHL adapter
Switched to newest LL Camera Proprietaries (instead of old JB ones)
Fixed S/W Encoders (no more inverted colors while sharing videos using Social Media apps)
Added Low Latency Audio support
Improved Audio Driver stability and performance
Please take a look at the updated "Known Issues" paragraph.

20150727v2:

Updated CM Sources
Consider this build as a 20150727v2 build (OTA doesn't accept "v2" typo)
Fixed "No SIM Card" bug for some of Synapse app users (tested)

20150727:

Updated CM Sources
Improved Stability and Performance (random reboots aren't anymore here)
Enabled HDMI Audio (untested)
Fixed Audio Disappearing issue (tested)

20150724:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed Bluetooth
Fixed USB Mass Storage mode
Improved Stability and Performance

20150723:

Updated CM Sources
Removed Synapse app by default (but support is still there)
Improved Stability & Performance
Increased Speaker volume
Fixed LEDs while on Offline Charging mode
Updated proprietaries to latest OF3 Stock ROM
SYNAPSE: clean up and add some features such as GPU min frequency
KERNEL: Updated sources to latest OF3 Source Package
KERNEL: Increased Stability
KERNEL: Added FIOPS I/O Scheduler (set by default)

20150715:

Updated CM Sources
Restored SystemUI (Recents Apps) performance tweak

20150714:

IMPORTANT: Full Wipe is recommended (let's say nearly necessary)
Updated CM Sources
Fixed random -No SIM Card- bug caused by Synapse
Fixed root access on first boot
Switched to SuperSU (CM's Superuser wasn't working correctly with Synapse)
Improved UI and JPEG Performance
Improved Bluetooth stability and performance
InCallUI doesn't have micro-lags anymore
SYNAPSE: Fixed No UCI Support bug
SYNAPSE: added Software CRC Toggle (enabled by default)
KERNEL: update Wi-Fi Country Codes
KERNEL: optimized battery life, stability and performance
KERNEL: use latest SaberMod GCC 5.1 Toolchain
KERNEL: reduce mmc wakelocks

20150711:

Updated CM Sources
SYNAPSE: fixed some values (audio, charger)
KERNEL: revert some mmc updates to reduce wakelocks
KERNEL: optimizations and clean-up here and there

20150709:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed "no SIM Card" issue
KERNEL: revert GPU memory change (fixes Random Reboots)
KERNEL: back to Stock Thermal Management (fixes Performance Regression)
KERNEL: fixed wrong battery capacity (latest Samsung LL sources have this bug)
KERNEL: little ptrace fix

20150707:

Updated CM Sources
Fixed horrible and distorted speaker sound
Added OTA Updates support
SYNAPSE: added CPU A7/A15 Control
SYNAPSE: added Wolfson Sound Control
SYNAPSE: added AMOLED Screen Control
KERNEL: updated IKCS driver to Exynos5420 state
KERNEL: added A7/A15 CPU Overclock/Underclock
KERNEL: added AMOLED Screen Control driver
KERNEL: added Wolfson Sound Control driver
KERNEL: updated UDP driver

20150706:

Updated CM Sources (5.1.1_r6 now)
Reduced HAL debug (camera, power, lights...)
Fixed Audio disappearing bug (please test, our audio platform is so strange that could have different behaviour on each device)
Improved Camera stability
Increased main mic volume a bit
Added Synapse Kernel Control support (with many many many features )
Updated RIL to latest JB 4.3 release (NB1, KK and newer libs aren't compatible yet)
Added some missing proprietary libraries (such as memtrack)
KERNEL: update to Linux Kernel 3.4.108
KERNEL: fixed thermal management (no more crashes and less heat production) <= this means reduced overheating
KERNEL: improved compatibility with slow microsd cards
KERNEL: improved performance and reduced battery usage
KERNEL: removed NTFS driver (support is still here, but as a module that needs to be manually loaded)
KERNEL: increased GPU shared memory (reducing available RAM to the userspace)
KERNEL: disabled unused and useless features

20150606:

Updated CM Sources
Introduced new Doze Service with Gestures support (Ambient Display)
Enabled Call Recording (only for countries where this is allowed)
Enhanced Modem Stability
Using new Speaker/Mic volumes (by @NBruderman )
Introduced HFR Support (720p60 Video Recording, but still not enabled)
Fixed Touchscreen Random delay after wake-up
Enhanced Stability and Performance everywhere
KERNEL: new whole kernel based on latest Linux Kernel 3.4.107 Release
KERNEL: improved CPU & GPU & I/O performance
KERNEL: enhanced USB connection stability
KERNEL: reduced heat production (totally reworked thermal management)
KERNEL: using latest available F2FS driver
KERNEL: sound card should be detected on all devices ( @MrComputerRevo : you know what i'm talking about )
KERNEL: sound will work also on first boot (previous overheating alert wasn't real)
KERNEL: improved battery life

20150517:

Updated CM Sources
KERNEL: enhanced USB stability
KERNEL: optimized memcpy performance
KERNEL: updated net ipv4/ipv6 stuff
KERNEL: optimized cpu performance
KERNEL: fixed wrong mtp name
KERNEL: many other changes (performance related)

20150425:

First Release

The CyanogenMod team would like to thank everyone involved in helping with testing, coding, debugging & documenting! Enjoy!

XDA:DevDB Information
[GearCM][i9500][5.1.x] Optimized CyanogenMod 12.1 for Samsung Galaxy S4, ROM for the Samsung Galaxy S 4

Contributors
Alberto96, NBruderman, intervigil, codeworkx
Source Code: https://github.com/GearCM

ROM OS Version: 5.1.x Lollipop
ROM Kernel: Linux 3.4.x
ROM Firmware Required: Latest LL Bootloader, Custom Recovery required to upgrade to GearRecovery and some basic flashing skills.
Based On: CyanogenMod

Version Information
Status: Stable
Current Stable Version: 20160220
Stable Release Date: 2016-02-20

Created 2015-04-24
Last Updated 2016-02-26

Alberto96 · Aug 30, 2015

Read carefully.

Important! Read this before any other question/doubt.

If someone doesn't like my ROMs, or doesn't like me, or even better, doesn't want to like/appreciate my works, then you can just go ahead and use/follow someone else works. Easy, not against XDA rules, and smart.

I'm not here for "fame" (or "glory" as someone in this forum said) unlike someone else, neither this is my job. I'm working on this device just because TW is far than usable (at least for me) on every Samsung device, not because someone else requested me to do it.

Differences between GearCM (Optimized CyanogenMod) and Official CyanogenMod (NIGHTLY):

Degrated Shadow said:
Enough of those dumb questions..
The Official CM rom is maintained by @Alberto96 and @intervigil
He makes the very recent changes here relating to performance...which are then in time pushed (even if partially) to CM Official Sources. The kernel is different because it has seLinux disabled and few minor tweaks you might not even notice...this GearCM ROM will have more performance. But CM will have their updated base changes which are included here with each update.
What I mean is you probably wont even notice what's different in terms of user interface. GearCM will have more performance. Official CM will have updated sources. But it will include GearCM's changes in time as @Alberto96 pushes them to CM
You can decide by a simple choice..more performance and not-nightly updated sources or similar/worse performance (improving with nightly updates) with updated sources. I would choose GearCM because of the reasons i mentioned above. Do what you will...and let this be a note to everybody who ask this again and again and again. Don't spam the thread with same question in every alternate page...because there are other people who might have different problems they need to ask. Read at least 15 previous pages and the first post Changelog before asking the question. Reading most of the times will give you a solution and if not most of the info you will read will help you anyway.

Alberto96 · Oct 26, 2015

Reserved

FAQ (Frequently asked questions)

If there a procedure that i should follow in order to have a clean base to start from?

Yes, follow this procedure and you shouldn't have any issue.

Flash latest Stock ROM Odin package | http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/download/55812/I9500XXUHOH7_I9500MBCHOF1_MBC | using latest Odin3 Flasher | http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=3446301&d=1440131361 | and Standard (not Chinese) .pit file. | http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=2343320&d=1382462885 |
After First Boot, Shutdown your device and Boot into recovery mode using 3 buttons combo (Volume +, Home, Power)
Wipe Data/Factory Reset using Volume Keys and Power Button (on Stock Recovery)
Flash latest TWRP 2.8.7.0 | https://dl.twrp.me/i9500/twrp-2.8.7.0-i9500.img.tar | using Odin3 | previously linked | (Untick Auto Reboot to avoid any issue)
Shutdown your device (pull off your battery)
Boot into recovery mode using 3 buttons combo | Volume +, Home, Power | (TWRP will boot now)
Flash latest GearRecovery (on TWRP)
Reboot into recovery mode using TWRP on-screen buttons | Home => Reboot => Recovery | (GearRecovery will boot now)
Clean completely your device (Format Data and Wipe All Partitions)
Reboot into recovery mode as did before (GearRecovery will boot again now)
Flash latest GearCM ROM
Home => Reboot => System

Where is "Developer Options" category?
To activate 'Developer Options' category in Settings you need to tap 7 times on 'Build number' located into Settings -> About Phone.

What can i do to fix VOIP audio calls?
There's not a real fix yet, so i found this useful workaround that could help you.

If you need to make a VOIP call:

1) Play something using stock music player (also third-party music players SHOULD be fine)

2) Do not pause audio playback

3) Make a call using your preferred VOIP app.

Or you can just use a Wired Headphone/Headset | BT Headphone/Headset.

This workaround should work also for incoming VOIP calls.

How can i solve problems with Hebrew language?
Go to "Developer Options" in Settings and check "Force RTL layout direction".

What can i do to reduce the "echo effect" while in-call?
Try to reduce in-call earpiece volume (if possible). Shouldn't be required on latest builds.

I'm having problems with battery life, what can i do?

1) Use "Greenify" to hibernate all apps with a "little cloud + 'Gcm' word inside" on the right of each app's name. Donation version is recommended because it allows deeper hibernation of apps

2) Disable "Location" or set it to mode "Battery Saving" (Settings -> Location)

3) Make sure that your 2G/3G mobile network signal level isn't always low or unstable

4) Deny "Wake Up" and "Keep Awake" permissions to Google and third-party apps. (Settings -> Privacy -> Privacy Guard -> Press menu button and check "Show built-in apps" -> Press menu button again and go to Advanced -> Horizontal Scroll to Device)

5) Disable "Sync" or sync only useful stuff like Contacts

6) Disable "Auto-rotate screen" (Settings -> Display & lights -> Rotation)

7) Use one of the latest Modem/Baseband listed on first post.

8) Disable Ambient Display

9) Install Xposed Framework and configure Amplify

If this isn't enough then replace your battery and/or reduce your phone usage. :silly:

Is GearCM OTA supported?
Yes

(Since 20150707 Build)

Why is my phone over-heating while playing heavy-games or running heavy-apps?
Use a bit your brain to explain why. High CPU and GPU usage = high heat production. Your phone will automatically throttle CPU when needed so don't worry, it is safe and normal.

Can I use another kernel instead of the one included in the zip?
No. Only use the included kernel for 100% compatibility, bug reports with non-standard kernel will be ignored.

Can i disable S-View cover features (lock/unlock)?
Not yet.

*** IR Remote app isn't working anymore/was working on previous builds/causes my phone to crash, what can i do?
Contact *** IR Remote app developer.

Any question about "Can't connect to camera" issue
Do not "stress" camera because we don't use yet a proper implementation. (Exynos limited open-source env.) Just Open & Close Camera apps carefully without force-closing them. (and do not do this frequently)

Alberto96 · Apr 25, 2015 at 12:02 PM

GearCM 12.1 Released

Enjoy!

shiruuu.samad · Apr 25, 2015 at 6:17 PM

Wow am fast !Will test Asap

invincible authority · Jul 9, 2011 582 130 0

BUG :
The video playback is laggy and pixelated on software decoder

khatkhatik · Apr 25, 2015 at 11:12 PM

nice work dude
but I have a request for your Rom
in the touchwiz charging amperage set to 1200mA when screen is on and 1900mA when screen is off
it cause when I use device and it is charging it is not getting very hot and when screen is off charged as fast as possible
but in this ROM charging amperage set to 1900mA all the time and the device getting hot when using it and its charging and its bad for battery
I remember when I9500 released(on android 4.2) had this issue and getting hot when charging that Samsung fixed it
Please change charging amperage like touchwiz
thank u man

mohammadpk · Apr 26, 2015

WiFi-Direct doesn't work,the phone reboots once a invitation is accepted from another device or vise versa.

*I don't have another device to try and give you a relevant logcat

What is your--
Phone model:I9500
Radio (baseband) version:12.1
GearCM version:20150425
GearCM download url:
Google Apps version: gapps-510-base-20150422-2-signed

Did you--
wipe data/factory reset: YES
restore with titanium backup: only apps data for dropbox, foldersync
reboot after having the issue: YES

Are you using--
a task killer: YES - Greenify
a non-stock kernel: Gearcm 3.4.5
CMSettings/Performance Settings (other than stock): NO
other modifications:
Didn't try it on previous versions of cm

justmpm · Apr 26, 2015 at 3:25 PM

Hey Everyone,
Please remember to use the Q&A/discussion thread for all topics that aren't directly related to development, such as bug reports and fixes.

You can find the Q&A thread here.

Thanks!

MANNSAAB · Apr 26, 2015 at 4:07 PM

thnks again alberto such a grt rom
bug cast screen is not working
it not connecting to tv

tembares · Apr 27, 2015 at 4:45 AM

Charging goes veeeery slow and battery is empty very fast.

anggarasastraz · Apr 27, 2015 at 12:43 PM

tembares said:
Charging goes veeeery slow and battery is empty very fast.

That is a seriously issue on all CM rom on s4
Battery drain so fast and wrong ampere. It must be 1200ma not 1900ma
Seems like all dev whos develope CM rom got the same issue
Sorry bad english

jadtannous · Apr 27, 2015

Im facing heating issue while charging
Device turns off when i capture with flash on (sometimes)
Sent from my GT-I9500 using XDA Free mobile app

afaquekhaja · Apr 28, 2015 at 9:22 AM

anggarasastraz said:
That is a seriously issue on all CM rom on s4
Battery drain so fast and wrong ampere. It must be 1200ma not 1900ma
Seems like all dev whos develope CM rom got the same issue
Sorry bad english

Well not the case with fraptis build of cm 12.1.

Degrated Shadow · Apr 28, 2015 at 12:17 PM

Alberto96 said:
Differences between GearCM (Optimized CyanogenMod) and Official CyanogenMod (NIGHTLY):

man.. i switched my phone quite a time back.. you still quoting me

how you doing bro?:highfive:

Alberto96 · Apr 29, 2015

20150429 Test Build: REMOVED

Untested.

Updated CM Sources & Optimized Kernel

brunotux · Apr 29, 2015 at 5:08 PM

it's not booting (dirty flashed)

Mirko35 · Apr 29, 2015 at 5:16 PM

brunotux said:
it's not booting (dirty flashed)

clean Flash... not booting...

Alberto96 · Apr 29, 2015 at 7:12 PM

Ok, this build should boot.

20150429v2 Test Build: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23991606952594057

Just Updated CM Sources

anggarasastraz · Apr 29, 2015 at 8:07 PM

@Alberto96 i wanna try CM rom but why the heating and charging problem never been solved? Its like all CM rom got the same problem. I just wanna know why
I hope you answer my question. Thanks

[GearCM][i9500][5.1.x] Optimized CyanogenMod 12.1 for Samsung Galaxy S4 [20160220]

Recognized Developer

Recognized Developer

Recognized Developer

Recognized Developer

Senior Member

Senior Member

Senior Member

Member

Retired Senior Moderator

Senior Member

Senior Member

Senior Member

Senior Member

Senior Member

Senior Member

Recognized Developer

Senior Member

Senior Member

Recognized Developer

Senior Member