Securifi Community Forum

Securifi Products => Almond+ => Topic started by: mr23 on January 17, 2015, 10:47:40 am

Title: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 17, 2015, 10:47:40 am
Is there an android widget available to control, for example, lamp on/off/illumlevel?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mparadis on January 17, 2015, 11:00:44 am
Not to my knowledge but would love to see it.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: j8048188 on January 17, 2015, 02:13:25 pm
It could be done with Tasker. All of the on/off stuff that's done on the local web UI is through HTTP GET requests, etc. I would dig into it, but school's started back up for me, so I don't think I'll have a lot of time.

I'd really love a widget in the Android app, though :)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 20, 2015, 04:12:58 am
I'd really love a widget in the Android app, though :)

How about an App + Widget, constrained to just adjustable Lamp devices?

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: j8048188 on January 20, 2015, 10:29:54 pm
Do you have a trial version of that app?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 21, 2015, 12:27:06 am
Do you have a trial version of that app?

Not yet. Everything takes time.
You do realize that you can try an app for a period of time, cancel, and get a refund?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mparadis on January 22, 2015, 11:43:57 am
Thought I'd give you a shot with the app. No function whatsoever. It opens, shows a screen I can't do anything with. Widget is the same. Can't link to my almond app, can't connect to lights etc.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 22, 2015, 10:11:08 pm
Thought I'd give you a shot with the app. No function whatsoever. It opens, shows a screen I can't do anything with. Widget is the same. Can't link to my almond app, can't connect to lights etc.

It presently is limited to the default Almond+ configuration IP 10.10.10.254.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 25, 2015, 09:11:45 pm
It presently is limited to the default Almond+ configuration IP 10.10.10.254.

Updated. The IP is now configurable.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: devi on January 26, 2015, 03:00:08 pm
We do have a plan for widgets in Android app but it takes time , can't say now but definitely more than a month
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 27, 2015, 08:49:32 pm
I pushed up an update to https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app) v0.99.11

Fixes the spacing between lamp entries in the app on some devices.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mparadis on January 27, 2015, 11:40:46 pm
Got the update, will post when I get to test it for you. Does this only work when connected to the home network?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 27, 2015, 11:46:09 pm
Got the update, will post when I get to test it for you. Does this only work when connected to the home network?

It talks directly to the Almond+ via the web interface at the IP address you give.

So if you have the web interface exposed to your provider (WAN), then you can reach it from outside the home. I have not tested that functionality.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 01, 2015, 05:53:38 pm
An update has been posted up today. The widget has been expanded to

Allow control of illumination level at 6 levels
- off, lowest on setting, 1/4,
- 1/2, 3/4, full on

And now you can make various selections of lamps
- select an individual lamp
- or select from a 'location' of lamps (ie subset of All lamps)
- select the whole set of lamps at a 'location'
- or select All lamps
to perform an illumination operation upon.

Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 05, 2015, 09:45:34 pm
Updated again, now with several widget layout sizes.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 13, 2015, 05:32:58 pm
By the way, this will not function with R70 due to the authentication change.
Should have a new release completed this weekend that does work with R70.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: xtbs26 on February 18, 2015, 09:06:28 am
Is the updated version that works with the 70 release out yet?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 18, 2015, 01:45:17 pm
Is the updated version that works with the 70 release out yet?

Not yet. I have an app build running, but not a widget version just yet.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 18, 2015, 11:45:32 pm
Not yet. I have an app build running, but not a widget version just yet. Life is causing a delay.

Found time tonight. App and Widget are functioning now with FW '70.
I expect to upload a new version in the next few days.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 23, 2015, 12:33:20 am
Found time tonight. App and Widget are functioning now with FW '70.
I expect to upload a new version in the next few days.

New '70 compatible version is in Beta. Should release in the next 24 hours.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: xtbs26 on February 24, 2015, 10:52:05 am
I d/l the new widget and it works great. However, I have some questions about the widget itself. I only see one size option, and that one takes up a lot more space than the actual size of the controls. Is that correct or am I missing something? I am not able to re-size it. I am using an HTC One M8, with their (HTC) launcher.
Thanks!
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 28, 2015, 12:32:02 pm
I d/l the new widget and it works great. However, I have some questions about the widget itself. I only see one size option, and that one takes up a lot more space than the actual size of the controls. Is that correct or am I missing something? I am not able to re-size it. I am using an HTC One M8, with their (HTC) launcher.
Thanks!

There are currently 3 sizes of widgets in the release. Resizing depends on support from the device's launcher.
I'm looking into further improvements in widget layouts, including a vertical layout.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on February 28, 2015, 09:23:54 pm
There are currently 3 sizes of widgets in the release. Resizing depends on support from the device's launcher.
I'm looking into further improvements in widget layouts, including a vertical layout.

v18 with a 2x4 portrait layout, and some improvements to the landscape layouts
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on March 03, 2015, 10:12:27 pm
Now compatible with R070as beta.

I also wrote a quick post (http://the12lab.com/almond-light-controller-appwidget/ (http://the12lab.com/almond-light-controller-appwidget/)).
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on March 12, 2015, 12:48:26 am
Added Widget-like capability on the Notification Drawer. Swipe-down, adjust your lamps!

Blog post updated (http://the12lab.com/almond-light-controller-appwidget/).
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on March 31, 2015, 12:42:09 am
Improved the graphics, and added another portrait layout. @link in sig.

FYI, this App/Widget uses the Almond+ directly as a slave, not through the Cloud.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: fillibar on May 15, 2015, 05:57:38 pm
Any plans to expand this beyond lamps, possible a "desired features" list or options you might implement if people make donations to get them done, or any such similar idea?
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on May 15, 2015, 07:50:37 pm
Any plans to expand this beyond lamps, possible a "desired features" list or options you might implement if people make donations to get them done, or any such similar idea?

I could consider that. One problem I would have is lack of devices to test with.
I'm a little torn on investing more time into A+ 'software' or money into A+ compatible zigbee/zwave devices as
- I expected Securifi to beef up Almond+ with HA and improve the mobile Apps
- I expected more sales of Almond+, and folks then that would want something working 'now' (via this App)
- I didn't expect Securifi to dilute their efforts on A+ by doing Almond 2015
- I hadn't expected Securifi to release A+ so short of promise, and I suspect it will suffer in the marketplace accordingly
- I expected more compatible devices by now. I tried a different lamp and A+ wouldn't control it despite being on the compat list
- Releasing and pulling a firmware update is more cause for concern
- Postings like http://forum.securifi.com/index.php/topic,3232.msg14920.html#msg14920 (http://forum.securifi.com/index.php/topic,3232.msg14920.html#msg14920)

On the other hand, the A+ is working for internet/wifi/wired, and I'm controlling my lights individually or in groups using A+ as a slave.
So if there is some interest in adding devices or other needs, I can consider it.
I hesitate to consider essentially implementing full HA/Scene support as an App and using the A+ as a slave, as that would require a significant investment in time. I haven't investigated any (open source) 'App' options for that, I'd expect there aren't any since devices are sold with hubs or to work with full HA systems.

Post a list of what you are looking for, maybe others will have some interest, and we'll discuss. I have to weigh it against other things of course.
How many folks have interest ?

-Chris
My B4x forum sig has a donation link, should we get that far.
http://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/almond-lamp-controller-app-widget.49936/ (http://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/almond-lamp-controller-app-widget.49936/)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: fillibar on May 16, 2015, 02:27:12 pm
I understand. I think you might have some faster turnaround than my working on something myself though, and you definitely have better experience at it. I will have to sit down and think up a "wish list".
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on May 20, 2015, 11:03:39 am
Securifi is now promising app with local control in "a month or two", which usually means "at some point, don't count on it on that schedule". That thread says they are actively working on it. Just this week for the first time I was able to use the luci web interface to adjust a light level more than once without hang/timeouts, functionality that should have been there since delivery. I've already forgotten when I received my Almond+.

Over the past 5 days no one else has commented on your post, so my takeaway is the interest is low, people have moved on, are not willing to spend a few bucks, or just don't read the forum.

I have an HTC Wildfire (cheap) per room running the Play store version, with the Widget up on the home screen, each set to all lamps at the room location. Tap tap and my lights are at a new level.

Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: fillibar on May 20, 2015, 12:20:16 pm
I noticed it did not have many downloads or ratings. Who knows, maybe Securifi would build one into their app or come to you to discuss incorporating yours (to save some time/effort on developing it).

I am still thinking on it... Busy as always though so it slips my mind.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: j8048188 on May 21, 2015, 01:14:07 am
Does anyone else keep getting an invalid WebSockets error? It happens on 2 different android devices. Running R072aw.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on May 21, 2015, 11:11:25 am
Does anyone else keep getting an invalid WebSockets error? It happens on 2 different android devices. Running R072aw.

Looks like both are Nexus devices (4,5). I will update the description until it is resolved, and contact you off-forum.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on May 23, 2015, 02:08:05 pm
Tested with R076.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on May 23, 2015, 02:17:23 pm
Just this week for the first time I was able to use the luci web interface to adjust a light level more than once without hang/timeouts...

Next time I tried that (before upgrading to R076), luci was back to the old behavior. After R076, luci on/off/dimmer doesn't work reliably, if at all. The sliders won't move. On/Off seems to do something occasionally, but not reliably.

My 'local' app works with R076, at the same time.

Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: SecureComp on June 01, 2015, 09:45:02 pm
I'm interested in this effort and would support it but at this point I am extremely concerned about the overall support from Securifi wrt A+.

Should this change, issues with Realtek/OpenWRT improve, Apps stabilize, things like light bulbs don't break with a major firmware release, then yes, it would be worth the effort.

For now, imho, it's a wait and see. Which is pretty much what I have been doing for 2 years, sadly.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on June 01, 2015, 11:07:50 pm
Tested with R079. With default timing setting, 4 lamps on/off/level adjusted in less than 1 second.
Present release *only* supports WeMo multilevel-switch lamps. This will be expanded in an upcoming release.

It *may* work for other (non-WeMo) lamps; the issue discovered is that some dimmable lamps/devices are MultiLevelSwitch *only*, while some like the WeMo are MultiLevelSwitchOnOff. Despite the name, MultiLevelSwitch devices do not have have Binary Switch on/off states. I'll need to make a corresponding change in the App/Widget software.

I'll also be adding in generic support for Switch Binary, which will allow use of non-energy and energy-monitor-enabled 'switches' aka switched outlets and the like. Because, you may use them with lamps. And I now have a few ;-)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: SecureComp on June 01, 2015, 11:16:30 pm
Purchased, installed, working.

Almond Plus - R76
Moto X - Gen 1 Android 4.4.4

GE Link A19 bulb
CREE Connected bulb

Have to use the 3x1, smallest widget

Cleaning up the setup/config will make life easier for generic users.
A screen based widget would be handy.

Nice and easy once you get the hang of it, slide the drawer, make a change.

Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on June 02, 2015, 08:21:52 pm
Purchased, installed, working.

Almond Plus - R76
Moto X - Gen 1 Android 4.4.4

GE Link A19 bulb
CREE Connected bulb

Have to use the 3x1, smallest widget

Cleaning up the setup/config will make life easier for generic users.
A screen based widget would be handy.

Nice and easy once you get the hang of it, slide the drawer, make a change.

You should have several widget choices, more than are available for the notification drawer.
There are some improvements afoot.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: SecureComp on June 02, 2015, 08:29:06 pm
I have several choice, just saying the 3x1 is what works best for a Gen 1 Moto X.

There seems to be an issue with the screen saver not working if the drawer app is loaded.  Screen saver (display turns off after 15,30,1min etc of inactivity) does not work if the drawer is loaded. (not open)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on June 02, 2015, 08:35:38 pm
I have several choice, just saying the 3x1 is what works best for a Gen 1 Moto X.

What did you mean by: "A screen based widget would be handy." This sounds to mean that there are no screen/desktop widgets, which there are. Did you mean screen saver widget?

There seems to be an issue with the screen saver not working if the drawer app is loaded.  Screen saver (display turns off after 15,30,1min etc of inactivity) does not work if the drawer is loaded. (not open)

Thanks for that observation. My wife saw something like that occasionally on her Samsung Galaxy but wasn't able to provide helpful detail.

There are several settings for the notification priority and the non/clearable. Which are you using, and if you could please try some other combos that may help.

Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: SecureComp on June 03, 2015, 01:50:54 pm
What did you mean by: "A screen based widget would be handy." This sounds to mean that there are no screen/desktop widgets, which there are. Did you mean screen saver widget?

On initial install, I did not have any widgets added to the widget section.
Uninstalled and reinstalled, widgets added.

I now have screen widgets and they are working as expected.

Call this one user error. I believe the original install was interrupted by me and created the issue.

Quote
Thanks for that observation. My wife saw something like that occasionally on her Samsung Galaxy but wasn't able to provide helpful detail.

There are several settings for the notification priority and the non/clearable. Which are you using, and if you could please try some other combos that may help.

I started doing a little testing and will get the details on what I am able to reproduce.

Updating my review on GooglePlay accordingly.

Nice job btw, I have a few thoughts about refinements and improvements but let me get the details on the screen saver not kicking in properly while drawer app is running first.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on August 25, 2015, 06:27:08 pm
Time to fulfill an earlier promise, of supporting more device types: MultiLevelSwitch , BinarySwitch.
Essentially allows ability to arrange devices in a desired order/arrangement. Allows grouping of devices, by location.

In Play, as 0.99.30. Play has more description of the changes at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.the12lab.almond.app), as does http://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/almond-lamp-controller-app-widget.49936/ (http://www.b4x.com/android/forum/threads/almond-lamp-controller-app-widget.49936/)

Running R080 these days, not tested with earlier versions.


Tested with R079. With default timing setting, 4 lamps on/off/level adjusted in less than 1 second.
Present release *only* supports multilevel-switch lamps such as belkin wemo. This will be expanded in an upcoming release.

It *may* work for other (non-WeMo) lamps; the issue discovered is that some dimmable lamps/devices are MultiLevelSwitch *only*, while some like the WeMo are MultiLevelSwitchOnOff. Despite the name, MultiLevelSwitch devices do not have have Binary Switch on/off states. I'll need to make a corresponding change in the App/Widget software.

I'll also be adding in generic support for Switch Binary, which will allow use of non-energy and energy-monitor-enabled 'switches' aka switched outlets and the like. Because, you may use them with lamps. And I now have a few ;-)
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on November 04, 2015, 11:18:54 pm
Has anyone tried this App with the Sep/Oct/Nov beta(s) ?
Feedback?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: chad.siegmann on November 21, 2015, 02:21:54 pm
Has anyone tried this App with the Sep/Oct/Nov beta(s) ?
Feedback?

Thanks.

I am planning to try this widget and I am also a beta tester so I will let you know. I had the September Beta firmware installed on the A+ until the LCD screen went bad on it, tried to upgrade to the Nov Beta thinking it would maybe fix it. Turns out it was a hardware issue that caused the screen to go. I am awaiting my new A+ which should arrive today and then I can upload the beta F/W again and give the widget a try.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23three on December 16, 2015, 09:11:37 am
Now updated for R083.
Title: Re: Android Widget?
Post by: mr23 on January 18, 2016, 12:17:05 am
Apologies are in order to those negatively affected by the last release, v34. A compiler update caused a Release build problem that was missed in testing, and is now fixed in v35.