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Root Hiding Apps by Renaming

Caine92

Newbie
I'm really going to sound like a noob here. I just got my first Android, the Evo, yesterday.

Since I can't delete the default apps that came with my phone, I want to hide them. Believe me I've been researching this for hours. No programs help. And for some reason I can't root the particular phone (2.2)

But I've been reading about renaming the apk file in the system/apps folder... where is that? Sounds like it would be when the phone is plugged in to a computer. But I can't find it. I did a search and nothing comes up.

Can someone please tell me exactly how to do this?
 
Welcome to the forums!

What you suggest requires changing the /system area, and would therefore require root access.

I've moved your query to the Evo root forum. Please see the sticky threads at the top of this forum listing to help with your rooting issues.
 
Thanks a lot. I actually just asked about the issues I'm having with rooting now that you moved it to the right section. Thanks again.
 
I'm really going to sound like a noob here. I just got my first Android, the Evo, yesterday.

Since I can't delete the default apps that came with my phone, I want to hide them. Believe me I've been researching this for hours. No programs help. And for some reason I can't root the particular phone (2.2)

But I've been reading about renaming the apk file in the system/apps folder... where is that? Sounds like it would be when the phone is plugged in to a computer. But I can't find it. I did a search and nothing comes up.

Can someone please tell me exactly how to do this?

I don't believe you can rename them without root rights. You say you can't root this phone? There is not an Evo out at this time with software that is unrootable. Have you read the Rooting for Dummies guide? I would suggest you read that and let us know if you need any answers or help getting it done. It is simple and very quick once you get the right things downloaded and installed.
 
I can't thank you enough. I think I actually came across that once but didn't take the time to really read through. Lesson learned.

But now could you point me in the direction of renaming the apps so I can hide them? Still not seeing the appropriate place when I plug in the Evo.
 
Are you rooted, and how familiar are you with the command line?

By the way, once rooted you can accomplish the equivalent by using the paid version of Titanium Backup. It's pretty much a must have tool anyway, plus it's cheap for what you get.

Use it to freeze any app so it won't run.
 
Actually found an app online that allowed me to go in and hide all of the apps that I didn't want showing up in the list, with the option to easily move them back in.

Yes, my phone is rooted now. Thanks again for the help and taking the time to respond.
 
I use Root Explorer for renaming/archiving system apps I don't like. (Always make a NAND backup before such surgery.) The app is good enough to use as a regular file manager as well.
 
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