A guide for making your phone look like an S4

Hello! In today’s blog post, I will show you how you can turn (almost) every single Android phone you have into looking like a Samsung Galaxy S4, or at least with the software. I’ve done the majority of the work for you, so all you have to do is follow along. All work done here can be reversed and will not have any severe consequences. This entire guide is also free, meaning you won’t have to pay to download any of the files or install the apps.

NOTE: This guide can work on Android 14 and 15 devices, but you may not be able to change app icons and some other things the way this guide shows. This guide also assumes you have a Samsung device with the Play Store on it. If you do not have a Samsung, alternative steps will be provided, but it may not be exactly the same. If you do not have the Play Store installed, I highly suggest you go download it now because many steps in this process require it or an app downloaded from it, including alternative solutions.

Step 1: Downloading

In this step, you will, you guessed it, mainly be downloading apps and ZIPs. They will all be provided as links you can download, even from your phone. (the “clickette.org” links can be trusted. its just a cdn I use, the file names are automatically randomized when uploaded)

S4 Wallpapers: https://clickette.org/u/4jjMHB.zip

S4 Ringtones: https://clickette.org/u/hlfqwG.zip

S4 App Icons: https://clickette.org/u/yUkTy0.apk

Clock/Weather Widget: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.droid27.digitalclockweather

Good Lock Labs: https://galaxystore.samsung.com/detail/com.samsung.android.goodlock

Alternative solution for non-Samsung devices

Nova Launcher: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.launcher

Other links

Amazing, easy to use CDN: https://clickette.org

Step 2: Extracting and Setting

In this step, you will be extracting ZIPs that you downloaded in the step earlier and then using the files. You should be able to extract ZIPs in your file manager, but if you cannot do so, then search up “FV File Explorer” on the Play Store and use that file manager for this guide.

In your file manager, go to the same directory (folder) your downloaded ZIP files are in. Scroll down until you see 4jjMHB.zip and hlfqwG.zip, respectively. Tap and hold your finger (long press) on one of the files, and if that isn’t working, then see if there is a button with 3 dots (it’ll look like this: … but vertical) on the file. A context menu should appear, and go through the available options in the context menu until you find something similar to “Extract” or “Unzip”. If you cannot find an option like this or cannot open the context menu, search up on Google or a search engine of your choice “[File manager name] extract ZIP tutorial” (e.x. “FV File Explorer extract ZIP tutorial”) and follow that. Repeat process for both ZIP files.

Now, you should have two folders. Click the first one you want.

Wallpaper Folder

If you clicked the folder with all the wallpapers, you should just see a bunch of PNG/image files. Choose whichever ones you want as your lock screen and home screen, as the wallpapers and some other things varied between models of the S4, so there isn’t one specific pair of default wallpapers for the S4. Me personally, I chose the one with autumn leaves as the home screen and the one with the child hopping in grass as the lock screen. If you cannot find out how to set these images as your wallpaper, just google it, like this example: “set wallpaper on Samsung Galaxy S20 tutorial”, just with “Samsung Galaxy S20” replaced with your phone’s name, and follow that.

Ringtone Folder

If you clicked the folder with all the ringtones, you should just see a ton of audio files. Choose the one you want as your default ringtone, it really doesn’t matter. Me personally, I chose Over The Horizon because it is the brand theme and sounds great. Similarly, to the wallpapers, just search up how to set a ringtone with audio files on your device if you cannot figure out how to.

Step 3: Applications

With the application links provided earlier, you will install Good Lock Labs and the clock/weather widget. The next bits will guide you through setting them up.

Clock/Weather Widget App

Go to the link and install the app on your phone, and open it (obviously). Go through the setup process. Then, once you reach the main weather page, open the context menu with the button on the top-left side of your screen. Click Settings, then Appearance Settings in the menu that pops up, and finally, click Widget skin. Scroll until you find the option called “blue rectangle clock” that looks like a blue rectangle clock and weather widget (duh). Click it and exit the app. Then, progress to the next app.

Good Lock

Go to the link and install the app. When opened, look for HomeUp. Its icon will have a home on what appears to be a… rainbow geyser? Anyways, you will click the download icon for HomeUp on the right side of the screen. If it didn’t automatically open, then click HomeUp. On arrival, let’s deal with settings:

• Home Screen Settings

1. Home Screen Grid: In the folder/group of settings labeled Home screen, there will be a setting called Home Screen Grid. Set it 4 by 4 (4x4).
2. Apps Screen Grid: Same group as Home Screen Grid. Set this one to 4 by 5 (4x5).
3. Page Loop: In the same folder as HSG and ASG, there will be a toggle called Loop Pages, and it needs to be disabled.

• Folder Settings

1. Popup Folder: A toggle in the Folder section. Enable it.

Now, there is another module that needs to be installed from Good Lock. Go back to the main Good Lock screen, with all of the available options. Scroll until you find Theme Park. Install it. Now, enter the app. Remember that APK I made you download earlier? Install it. You’ll need it. Once that Multi Layout Theme is installed, reenter the Theme Park app. In the menu at the bottom of the screen, you will find a button labeled icon which kinda looks like a wrapped gift present. Click it, and there will be a big rainbow button labeled “CREATE NEW”. You probably already have, but if you haven’t, click it. Now, there will be another icon identical to the icon button you clicked earlier, but now bigger and labeled with “Iconpack”. Click it, and in the third party icon packs section, you will find the very same multi theme iconpack I made you install earlier. Now, what you likely will see, is a big fat nothing, except for the S4 wallpaper you installed earlier. Click the 3 dots in the top right corner, then the only button (“Change icons”). Click it. Now, I hate to do this to you, but because of an issue with how the icons are assigned, you will have to manually assign these icons for every app on your phone. There might be some exact matches in there (e.x. apps like Phone, Minecraft, YouTube, and Spotify), but there’s also a chance that some apps (especially games) won’t have an exact match, so you will have to find a similar match (e.x. apps with this issue include YT Studio, ibisPaint, and Bluesky). Once done, exit the menu and and click the download icon near the same 3 dots icon. Click it, give your iconpack a beautiful name, and then apply it.

Nova Launcher (non-Samsung)

In the Nova Launcher, open the app drawer and then open your Nova Settings (or something similar). Use the search feature to find the settings for grids, and set it to the aforementioned values. Remember that APK I made you download earlier? Install it. You’ll need it. Once that Multi Layout Theme is installed, go back to the app drawer. Unfortunately, to set the app icons, you will need to long press on each app and choose the appropriate icon from the S4 icon pack. Just repeat the process until every app has an S4 icon.

Step 4: Layout

Now, for your actual home screen. This is probably one of the most important parts to make your phone look like an S4. Nova or Samsung, long press on the home screen, and add the clock weather widget, at the very top. Then, under the clock/weather widget, place a Google Search widget that stretches across the screen. Under that, in order (from left to right), place Email, then Calendar, then Camera, and finally, the Play Store. Now, on the quick access bar at the bottom or whatever it is called, in order, place Call, then Contacts, then Messaging, then Internet (app of your choice, but for authenticity, I went with Samsung Internet), and at the end, the App drawer icon.

 

Your transformation should now be done! Congratulations, your phone now looks like an S4! Anyways, for more cool tech and programming stuff, make sure to tune in the the CheeseBlog. Cya!

Modded Discord clients are epic

We all know what Discord is, but I want to talk about the modded clients. There’s so many of them. Wait, did you say you don’t know what Discord is? Seriously? Fine, I’ll explain.

What’s Discord?

Most of you probably know what Discord is, so if you do, skip past this section. If you don’t, stay. Discord is a multi-platform rich messaging app. Many of its features include servers (like a group chat but it allows more people and there’s multiple of these things called channels that are usually used for categorizing chats and media), group chats, profile customization, markdown and multimedia support, etc. If you wish to read more on it, just check out its homepage here or read the Wikipedia page here.

Modded clients? What?

Yes, modded clients. This can range from modified desktop clients to modified web clients all the way to modded mobile clients. These modded clients add features to Discord that make it more useful or stylish. In this post is essentially just going over a few and what makes them special.

Okay here’s the list

Vencord/Vesktop

Vencord is one of the most used clients for Discord when it comes non-vanilla ones. It features a large variety of themes, which can be used to style Discord in ways that aren’t the basic dark and light themes and forgotten Nitro themes. It also has a wide range of plugins, which are used to extend functionality past what Discord officially offers and what Vencord adds. There isn’t really much special about Vencord aside from its popularity and large range of plugins and themes to use. Oh, and if you were wondering what Vesktop is, it is just a more optimized version of Discord with Vencord pre-injected, because otherwise you would have to install the normal Discord executable, install it, and then inject Vencord. You can check the GitHub link here.

Aerochat

Aerochat is just normal Discord, but with a twist. It looks nearly identical to Windows Live Messenger 2009 (also known as MSN Messenger). It has support for normal DMs, group chats, and even servers. It is still in development, though, and many features in normal Discord are missing because this client is being built from the ground up and is not based on the official Electron app Discord released. For the code, you can, once again, check the GitHub here.

BetterDiscord

BetterDiscord is one of the older Discord mods. It is very similar to Vencord, except that it is more popular, older, and doesn’t have cats everywhere. It supports both Windows and OS X. Otherwise, it is a very cool project, like all of these. For code, installation, and more, check the GitHub.

Conclusion

All of these clients are great clients, but they aren’t the only options. Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this blog post. Don’t forget to tune in to the CheeseBlog for another post. Cya!

Massive PrizVideo Update!

I know that despite what I said in my original post, this blog hasn’t really been a place for updates on PrizVideo. But guess what? This entire post is about it! Let’s dive head first into this topic.

Recap/What is PrizVideo?

If you somehow stumbled upon this blog without knowledge of PrizVideo, here’s the summary: PrizVideo is an open-source, ad-free, privacy based video broadcasting platform. It aims to have a user-centered experience. That means none of the annoyances, such as ads or annoying popups. However, it aims to do more than that. It also promises for there to be NO third party trackers or selling your data. The data is does collect is only used for your feed and a rough estimate of popular topics or the amount of users on PrizVideo. Did I mention it is open source? You can find the GitHub and website links here:

https://github.com/PrizVideo

https://prizvideo.github.io

Okay, now lets talk about what I actually mean to talk about.

What is this so called “massive update”?

Okay, maybe it isn’t a massive update, maybe I was just using that wording for people to read my newest blog post (although you are welcome to read my older ones by all means, I preserve the content I make). The new update features even more enhanced security, various bug fixes, and now, PERSISTENT LOGINS! I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but everything here is a step in a journey, and I want everyone reading this to be a step in that journey.

And why should I care?

I believe that anyone who reads my blog is either someone I know or I work with, someone related to me, somebody I shared the link to, or the most unlikely one, someone who found my blog through a search engine. And do you want to know why I doubt that? I doubt that because I have tried to find my blog through Google, Brave Search, DuckDuckGo, even Yahoo, but it was to no avail. Anyways, backstory aside, I hope you enjoyed this blog post, comment if you like blogs more centered around this style, and make sure to tune in to the CheeseBlog for another post. Cya!

Why Windows 7 is better than newer Windows versions

Hi, everyone. I know I’ve slowly been posting less and less, but that’s just because of a bad schedule. But now, I’m back. I’m back and I can give you all a new post. I hope you all enjoy it, and let’s get right in to it.

UI

Windows 7 is known for having simplistic but good  UI. People have adored the Aero aesthetic. The Aero aesthetic is even starting to return because people love it so much. It has an intuitive ribbon UI seen all across the operating system. It also has the traditional start menu, something Windows 8 and 8.1 cannot say. The UI is quick and snappy, which brings us to the next section.

Speed

Windows 7 is incredibly quick and snappy. Even on bad hardware, it still manages to pull through and do most tasks fairly quickly. On good hardware, it can pass the test of speed with flying colors. It loads IE, explorer, and most common apps well, which makes sense, as they are mostly simple apps, but for daily use, it’s good. The speed could be because of a lack of clutter, which I’m going to bring up soon.

Clutter

Windows 7 and clutter should not be in the same sentence. It only has the absolutely necessary apps, such as a calculator, a word pad (a rich note and documents app, kind of like a Lite version of MS Word), a web browser, a widget app, etc. If you ever feel something is missing or needed, just download it online! New web browser? Find it with IE. Want a game or two? Just go and download Steam, or go to itch.io for web games or free download games. An upside of having no clutter is a big bump in speed. However, if you want to declutter on Windows 10, 11, or even 8, you have to forcibly go through a complicated process to get rid of a few bloatware apps.

Overview

Windows 7 may seem to be out of date by many people now, but that does not deny any of the points I have made. In my opinion, it is arguably one of the best Windows operating systems to this day, and many people would agree with me. Most of the points made in this post cannot be applied to Windows 8, 10, or 11, which is honestly such a shame, similarly to how it is sad that not that many apps support Windows 7 anymore. I hope you all enjoyed this blog post, but for more like this, make sure you tune in to the CheeseBlog soon for another post. Cya!

Note: This entire blog post was made with Windows Live Writer, tell me if anything is off about the post’s styling, this way of creating posts is simple and quick, so I prefer it. Anyways, bye

Is AI coding an issue?

AI tools like GitHub Copilot and TabNine are revolutionizing coding. They can autocomplete entire functions, suggest logic, and even help debug.

But is this good or bad for developers?

• Pro: Speed and efficiency. AI reduces repetitive tasks and makes coding accessible to beginners.
• Con: Over-reliance on AI could mean less understanding of the codebase and a loss of foundational skills.

As a developer, I’ve tested Copilot, and while it’s helpful, I see it more as an assistant than a replacement. It’s a tool—not a crutch. What’s your take on this growing trend?

That’s all for now! Don’t forget to check out the CheeseBlog for more tech trends and insights. Cya!

 

[upload on 11/24/24]

Why JS frameworks are awesome

JavaScript frameworks have come a long way, transforming how we build web applications. But with so many options—React, Vue, Angular—it can feel overwhelming.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• React: Great for component-based architectures. Ideal if you’re looking for flexibility and a massive community.

• Vue: Lightweight and approachable, perfect for small-to-medium projects without the steep learning curve.

• Angular: A full-blown framework, best suited for large-scale applications requiring structure and robust features.

For developers, picking the right framework depends on the project’s needs. Personally, I lean toward Vue for its simplicity, but I’d love to hear what you’re using!

That’s it for today! Make sure to tune in to the CheeseBlog for more programming insights and tech updates. Cya!

An Update

Unfortunately, I have decided against actually finishing the Gravity Falls post, or publishing what I had. This is because of multiple reasons:

 - Multiple sources have already covered the entire site

 - The hype is gone

I hope this is okay with the current readers. Well, tune in to the CheeseBlog tomorrow for another post. Cya!

Indie games are unique and different, and here's why

In recent years, we've seen an explosion in indie game development. As a tech enthusiast and gamer, I find this trend fascinating. Today, let's explore why indie games are becoming increasingly popular and how they're shaping the gaming industry.

The Power of Accessibility

One of the main drivers behind the indie game boom is the increased accessibility of game development tools. Engines like Unity and Unreal have democratized game creation, allowing passionate developers to bring their visions to life without massive budgets or large teams.

Unique and Innovative Ideas

Indie developers often have the freedom to take risks and explore unconventional ideas. This has led to some truly groundbreaking games like "Undertale," "Stardew Valley," and "Hollow Knight." These titles prove that innovative gameplay and compelling storytelling can compete with AAA productions.

The Role of Digital Distribution

Platforms like Steam, itch.io, and console digital stores have made it easier than ever for indie developers to reach a global audience. This direct-to-consumer model allows for niche games to find their dedicated fanbase without the need for traditional publishing deals.

Community and Crowdfunding

The indie game community is incredibly supportive. Platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon have enabled developers to secure funding directly from fans. This not only provides financial support but also creates a engaged community around the game even before its release.

Retro Inspiration

Many indie games draw inspiration from retro classics, appealing to both nostalgia and a desire for simpler, more focused gameplay experiences. This ties into the retro gaming comeback we discussed in a previous post, showing how different gaming trends can intersect and influence each other.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the successes, indie game development isn't without challenges. Discoverability remains a significant issue, with thousands of new games released each year. However, as tools continue to improve and more success stories emerge, we can expect the indie game scene to keep thriving and pushing the boundaries of what games can be.

Quick Update on Personal Projects

I'm still working on some coding projects, including improvements to my website. Progress has been a bit slow due to other commitments, but I'm excited about the direction things are taking. Stay tuned for more updates!

Conclusion

The rise of indie game development is ushering in a new era of creativity in the gaming industry. Whether you're a fan of innovative gameplay, unique art styles, or compelling narratives, there's never been a better time to explore the world of indie games. That's all for today! Make sure to tune in to the CheeseBlog for more gaming insights and updates. Cya!

Retro gaming is making a comeback and I'm all for it

Gaming has come a long way since the days of pixelated screens and 8-bit soundtracks. But even with all the high-definition graphics and immersive storylines modern games offer, there’s something undeniably appealing about retro gaming. So why are classic games making such a big comeback?

The Nostalgia Factor

For many, retro gaming is a trip down memory lane. The simplicity of games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Tetris reminds us of a time when gaming was all about fun, without the complexities of DLCs, microtransactions, or massive updates. It’s about revisiting the moments that defined our childhoods and the joy of rediscovering those old-school mechanics.

Accessibility and Preservation

With the rise of emulators, retro gaming has never been more accessible. Whether on a PC, a homebrewed console, or even your phone, you can easily relive the classics. But it’s not just about playing old games; it’s about preserving a piece of gaming history. With physical cartridges and consoles becoming rarer, digital preservation is key to keeping these games alive for future generations.

Community and Mods

The retro gaming community is thriving, thanks in part to the creativity of modders and enthusiasts. From fan-made translations of Japan-only releases to full-blown hacks that reimagine classic games, the community is keeping retro gaming fresh and exciting. Plus, with events like Games Done Quick and other speedrunning marathons, classic games are getting the spotlight they deserve.

Quick update about the Gravity Falls post

The post is still in the works. I just haven't been able to get far with it because of technical limitations and so little time, especially with school back. Again, I apologize for not posting in such large amounts of time.

Conclusion

Retro gaming is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of the games that laid the foundation for today’s gaming industry. Whether you’re revisiting your favorite childhood games or discovering them for the first time, there’s something timeless about those 8-bit adventures. That’s all for today! Make sure to tune in to the CheeseBlog for more gaming insights and updates. Cya!

The New Gravity Falls Website

Some of you by now may or may not have seen the new Gravity Falls website that may or may not be hinting at a new season of Gravity Falls. I recently discovered it after the countdown that ended at 3:30 PM today (CDT). After learning about the website, I had a powerful urge to discover every secret of this site. I'm going to be going through all of the accessible source code. Expect a very detailed and long blog post by Monday. Also, quick apology for not posting in over a week. Here's some updates:

• PrizVideo has gotten a brand new redesign and I am bug fixing and testing systems like the uploading system. Still don't expect a fully working PrizVideo website for a long while, though. You can find the main, not yet redesigned website here and the redesigned testing site here.
• School is starting soon for me. I won't be posting as often.

 Make sure to tune in to the CheeseBlog sometime soon for a new post. Cya!