How to Customize Your Android Phone Without Installing CyanogenMod

The Xposed Framework enables you to mod your Android phone or tablet using a series of modules — no custom ROM needed. In this guide we'll show you how to get started with Xposed.

Note: This framework is only possible on a rooted device.

The modifications that frameworks provide are often the kinds of things that you would usually need to flash an entirely new ROM in order to use, but with frameworks you can simply manage the customizations through a single app on your device and not have to worry about losing your beloved build.

Here, we're looking at the Xposed Installer framework, which was developed by rovo89 on the XDA forums. It's worth checking out his post on the forums, if for no other reason than getting a little peace of mind with regards to the installation and use of this framework.

We're going to show you how to get it up and running, but if you have a relatively old or niche device then there may be some teething problems with the framework, in which case you'll want to know where you can go for support.

When you're ready, read on to find out how to get hold of the APK file that contains Xposed Installer — this will let you install both the framework and the modules that plug into it. After that, we're going to run through the setup of a module.

1. Download Xposed Installer

DOWNLOAD APK

2. Install It

3. Get the Framework

Once your app is installed, fire it up. It's a nice, clean interface, and the next step is to install the Xposed framework using this app. Tap on the Framework option, and then Install/Update on the next screen. Give it Superuser access when prompted, hit OK, then reboot your device.

4. Check Out the Downloads

Now for the fun part. Head to the Download section — right at the top of the interface, you'll see your currently installed version of the framework, and then all of the modules listed below.

5. Search for a Module

Especially when you're just starting out with this app, it can be helpful to use the search function to drill down to exactly the kind of module that you're after. Here, we're looking for some kind of CPU tool that will give us more information about our device's operation.

6. Install the Module

When your chosen module has finished downloading, you'll be taken to a screen asking you to confirm the installation. Do so, and once you get the "App Installed" message pop up on-screen, simply tap the Open button at the bottom-right in order to run it.

7. Customize the Settings

The next screen that you see will show you the settings options for your module, if any are available — customize your module as you see fit. You'll also see a notification appear in your status bar (a round 'i' icon) saying that your module is not yet enabled.

8. Switch On the Module

Head to the Modules section and then tick the box beside the module that you've installed to enable it. Upon rebooting your device, your module will be working. In the main image on the other page you can see our CPU temperature displayed in the status bar.

So that's how you can customize your Android phone without installing CyanogenMod or any other custom ROM. Do leave your comments below and tell us which modules you are using!