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Overview

PhoneClaw requires specific Android permissions and settings to automate apps on your device. This guide walks you through preparing your phone for automation, from enabling developer mode to granting accessibility permissions.
PhoneClaw works on standard Android devices without requiring root access. The cheapest recommended device is a $30 Moto G Play available at Walmart.

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Prerequisites

  • Android device running Android 8.0 (API 26) or higher
  • Computer with Android Studio installed
  • USB cable for sideloading
  • Approximately 15 minutes for setup

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Steps

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Verify Installation

Confirm PhoneClaw is properly configured:
  1. Open PhoneClaw
  2. Check the status indicator shows “Ready”
  3. Accessibility service should show as “Connected” in logs
  4. Tap the microphone button and say “test”
  5. PhoneClaw should respond with text-to-speech confirmation

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Configure API Keys (Optional)

For vision-based features, PhoneClaw uses Moondream API:
  1. Create a file named local.properties in your project root
  2. Add your Moondream auth token:
  1. Rebuild the APK with your token included
Without a Moondream token, magicClicker and magicScraper features won’t work. Basic automation without vision assistance will still function.

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Troubleshooting

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Accessibility Service Won’t Enable

  • Restart your device
  • Uninstall and reinstall PhoneClaw
  • Check that you’re running Android 8.0 or higher

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Screen Capture Fails

  • Ensure you granted permission when prompted
  • Check Settings → Apps → PhoneClaw → Permissions
  • Some devices require manual permission in Settings

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App Won’t Install

  • Enable “Install unknown apps” for your file manager
  • Check you have sufficient storage space (at least 100 MB)
  • Verify the APK isn’t corrupted by rebuilding

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Voice Commands Not Working

  • Grant microphone permission in Settings → Apps → PhoneClaw
  • Check your device volume isn’t muted
  • Try tapping the microphone button instead of continuous listening

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Next Steps

Create Your First Automation

Build a simple workflow with ClawScript

Use Voice Commands

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