Newbie Questions -

[bonline]

I just picked up VM Optimus - I had a few questions:

1. Is there a unified messaging app - that enables all of my text messages to come to this app? I travel out of the country and there is no network coverage (knew that before buying the phone), but I get wifi access there and I downloaded TextPlus but those messages only go to the Text Plus app, not the stock message app.

2. Is there a app that you can organize apps, similar to Fences for Windows on the PC?

3. Best free app to make free wifi calls?

4. What would rooting my phone enable for me vs. normal?

5. Can you root it even if you activated it already?

I think those are the most pressing items, thanks in advance for your help!

 

[raynoldsk]

Welcome!

I think Handcent messaging app will do that. Check it out.

I am rooted just to be able to use Link2sd. It was well worth it to me. And yes, you can root after you activated. Just be aware that it does void the warranty on the phone. I don't think you can brick the phone just rooting though (or I would have done it ;p)--I think flashing ROMs is where bricking comes in.

Don't know anything about Windows or wifi calls, but someone will come along that does.

 

[AmishFury]

link2sd is one of the biggest arguments for rooting the optimus (or any phone with such low internal storage)

there are other things rooting allows... flashing roms, higher level of customization, overclocking

 

[AndyOpie150]

The answer to #5 is yes.The answer to #4 is rooting gives you root access to your phone's system files,and any other files for that matter. This will allow you to change r/o(read only permission)of the files(meaning you can't alter or delete said files),to r/w(read and write permission) which will allow you to replace or change as well as add files to your phones system(you have to be very careful what you delete)This allows you to run a custom recovery(xionia is the best for the "Optimus V")which will allow you to straighten out just about anything you can inadvertently mess up.This will also allow you to run a custom ROM(Harmonia,Bumblebee,and various version of the CM7 Gingerbread ROM are the best for the "V")which will greatly improve the amount or apps you can install,increase the CPU speed in Hz(makes everything run smother and faster,plus gives you greater time off charge battery duration),and gives you more time off charge do to the Time Without Signal bug on the stock ROM being fixed. If you decide to Root your phone IT WILL VOID YOUR PHONES WARRANTY. If you still decide to root your phone then PLEASE use the Gingerbreak apk ,it is as close to "Nuub" proof as you can get and will not mess up your phone if you don't get it right the first time.Theres a thread in the All Things Root section dated July 5th entitled "Can't get root access with Gingerbreak apk 1.2"(this is my own personal overthinking,worry wart, experience with installing it) .If you will read it first it will help you to get root access with the Gingerbreak apk.,if I can do it anybody can! Then check out the thread dated June 28th entitled "Root Optimus V without computer". Between the two threads you should have all the info necessary for rooting,installing a custom recovery,and installing a custom ROM. If you have any guestions feel free to ask in the "All Things Root" section.

 

[lizm]

I just picked up VM Optimus - I had a few questions:

2. Is there a app that you can organize apps, similar to Fences for Windows on the PC?

App shortcuts can be organized into folders on your home screens (and can be placed on any screen as well). I like using a Launcher, the one I have is Launcher Pro EX. It allows me to make an unlimited number of home screens, but you don't need that to organize your apps into screens and folders.

APPBRAIN is an excellent app manager, one place to do updates, move to SD, block updates, find new cool apps, etc.

3. Best free app to make free wifi calls?

I am fond of Groove IP. It's very easy to install and use, and it works with your Google Voice account. For $5, you can make and receive calls anywhere there is wifi (or 3G too, actually, but with lower call quality).

If this is your first Android phone you may not know that using Google services make using your phone a lot easier. Since I got my first Android phone I've become a regular user of Google Voice, Calendar and contacts (thru Gmail), and everything syncs effortlessly all the time.

 

[raynoldsk]

If you are interested in rooting, go to the top of this folder and read the threads in there. It is easy once you know what you are doing, but that takes reading and figuring things out...and following instructions.

 

[tcat007]

1. Is there a unified messaging app - Google Voice

2. Is there a app that you can organize apps, similar to Fences for Windows on the PC? Auto App Organizer or Folder Organizer

3. Best free app to make free wifi calls? GrooveIP, great app!

4. What would rooting my phone enable for me vs. normal? I'm not rooted, but mainly control of disc space, it's not necessary.

5. Can you root it even if you activated it already? Yes