PhotoCloud Frame Slideshow 1.15.2

The application serves as a straightforward digital photo frame for users seeking a simplified experience in displaying photos. It allows for the conversion of an old Android tablet into a functional digital display, enabling browsing of cloud-stored images with ease. Designed for efficiency, this no-frills app is user-friendly and effectively fulfills its purpose.

PhotoCloud can retrieve and present slideshows from an array of sources, including:

• OwnCloud/NextCloud server (supports self-signed HTTPS certificates)
• Dropbox
• Local Gallery
• Flickr
• Microsoft OneDrive
• Windows Shares (Samba)
• Mega
• Instagram (limited to Recent Media due to API changes)
• SSH and SFTP
• DLNA/UPNP
• Box
• Google Drive
• Google Photos (formerly Picasa)
• iCloud Public Share

The application prioritizes user privacy by supporting personal servers, including OwnCloud/NextCloud and SSH+SFTP. This flexibility allows users to display photos from their individual storage setups.

Supported image formats include:

• Bitmap: png, gif, bmp, jpg, jpeg
• Raw: crw, cr2, nef, raf, dng, mos, kdc, dcr (loading RAW files generates significant traffic; this feature can be enabled in the app settings)

The app facilitates seamless cycling through photos from any combination of sources. Users can choose to play all photos or limit selections to specific directories while also having the capability to browse files manually. Photos are cached locally for offline viewing, ensuring availability when the device is not connected to the internet.

Streaming capabilities include:

• ChromeCast support (requires Android 4.4 or higher) - displays slideshows on compatible TVs from mobile devices
• Android TV compatibility - allows the app to run directly on the TV, with remote control functionality
• Daydream Screensaver Slideshow support (Android 4.2 or higher)

The free version of the app includes occasional prompts to purchase a premium option, which removes these notifications. Additional in-app purchases can unlock features such as Daydream integration.

This application is dedicated solely to slideshow functionality; it does not provide music playback or video creation features. Its primary role is to deliver a straightforward slideshow experience without unnecessary complications.

The app's nature entails significant data usage; thus, a Wi-Fi connection is recommended. Built-in network protection will halt the slideshow in case of Wi-Fi disconnection.

This application is currently in early development stages. User feedback is encouraged for future improvements, including:

1. The ability to configure directories with specific polling hours for photos, allowing for themed galleries throughout the day.
2. Expanded support for Facebook photo access.

Required permissions include:

• INTERNET: To download photos from cloud services.
• WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE: To cache photos on older Android devices.
• GET_ACCOUNTS: Necessary for Google Drive and billing functionalities.
• BILLING: For in-app purchases.
• ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE: To monitor Wi-Fi connectivity and prevent cellular charges during slideshows.
• RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED: To allow automatic start-up if configured.
• ACCESS_WIFI_STATE: To discover DLNA devices.
• CHANGE_WIFI_MULTICAST_STATE: Also for discovering DLNA devices.
• wAKE_LOCK: To maintain device power during slideshows.