WHS Mobile v1.0.5.5 Monday, June 29 2009 - Releases

Here’s a quick update for WHS Mobile. This fixes some of the problems people have been having, and adds streaming features.

Changes

Fixes:

  • Accidental leftover debug code
  • Installer problems
  • Fixes WM client’s positioning code (hopefully)

Adds:

  • MP3 streaming on the iPhone client – You’ll notice “[Play Album]” add the end of a folder listing where mp3s exist, and a new option when you select an mp3 file.
  • WMA streaming for the Windows Mobile Client – Click preview when a WMA file is selected. Unfortunately, Mobile Windows Media Player doesn’t support streaming mp3s.

Note:

If you have “Enable Remote Access to PCs” checked, and you have problems connecting to the WHS. Try unchecking the box, and restarting the service. Also, that feature is only for Windows Mobile (and can go crazy if it doesn’t detect a UPnP enabled gateway/router).

iPhone Setup

  • If you haven’t already, jailbreak your phone and then install this patch.
  • Download the IPA file and run it.
  • Sync the device
  • On the device, go to Settings –> WHS Mobile.
  • Type in the WHS domain (only yourname.homeserver.com, no http://) and the password.
  • It’s now okay to launch the WHS Mobile app.

Download

WHS Mobile Home Server Add-In

WHS Mobile Windows Mobile Client

WHS Mobile iPhone Client – If it downloads as a zip file, rename the extension to .ipa (or just use another browser, it downloads properly in Firefox)

Screenshots

WHS_Mobile_iPhone_music_stream WHS_Mobile_iPhone_music_streamalbum

Comments

Tommo on 6.29.2009 at 4:01 PM

Tom's Blog

Stardate 6/30/2009

Well damn, he (Brent Friedman) whipped it up...damn fast. I'm certainly impressed.

It looks good, and I think he's done a swell job.

Spparently, becuase it'a the interwebs, weneadn't spekll guod.

Until next time, I'm Tom Chapman reporting for...CNN or what ever it is over there.


Smoothbond on 6.29.2009 at 4:51 PM

I still cant get it to work, the service is running fine on the whs, but when i try to connect with my iphone it waits about 3 seconds and it kicks me back to the iphone dashboard.I'm using the same domain name that i access my whs server with remotely and a valid password. i've tried multiple times and I'm now using version 1.0.5.5, still no luck, any ideas


Brent Friedman on 6.29.2009 at 10:33 PM

Smoothbond,

If your router doesn't support UPnP, port forward port 8169 (TCP) to your WHS. Also try adding an exception in the firewall. If those don't work, make sure “Enable Remote Access to PCs" is unchecked in settings. Did you setup the password in settings (on the iPhone and WHS)?


Smoothbond on 6.30.2009 at 2:10 AM

@ Brent. thanks for responding, I already tried port forwarding, I even uninstalled the app from my phone and re-downloaded it again this morning, still no luck. and remote access was already unchecked. I didnt set up a password but i have now and entered the same password on whs mobile settings on my phone. it doesnt give me an error message, it just sits for 2 secs and kicks me abck out the the dashboard, restarted multiple times already and stopped and started the service on my whs as well, I can even see the upnp packets being directed to my whs in the Router logs


Brent Friedman on 6.30.2009 at 3:19 PM

Smoothbond,

Which iPhone firmware do you have? 3.0? Just to make sure, you are connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data right? The only thing it does on launch is try to connect. Even if the domain is wrong, it still launches just fine (it will crash when you click any of the options though..). So it crashes right after showing the loading screen?


Jeff on 6.30.2009 at 9:08 PM

I'm having the same problem. How does the app connect to WHS? Does it go to the router and then back thru it? Is there a place to specify the WHS server name or (even better) IP?


Brent Friedman on 7.01.2009 at 3:51 AM

It would appear people aren't reading the previous post. Please read iPhone Setup over here: brentf.com/.../whs-mobile-v1-0. That should help prevent any problems.

 

Jeff,

Please read the above.


Jeff on 7.01.2009 at 6:08 AM

Brent, thanks for the link. I did read thru that, and had my settings. However, it appears the iPhone DNS isn't resolving my WHS servername correctly. When I switch the domain setting to the IP address, it works. Should have tried that before posting, sorry. Hope this helps anyone else.


Jason on 7.01.2009 at 7:43 PM

I am having the exact same problems. I just went through the entire process again (I posted on the original page) and the app still crashes. I read the original post, I have installed all the updated software, I have the correct settings based on comments and the documentation. Very frustrated, any additional suggestions?


Marcel on 7.02.2009 at 2:47 AM

Hi,

version 1055 works for me but when i will play music it comes with the following error:

attempting play audio failed


Marcel on 7.02.2009 at 6:11 AM

on wegotserved.com is an article of WHSMobile, there are different screenshots with a home screen. I dont see it, is there something wrong ?

Music wont play.

Brent, you make very nice programs !!!

greets Marcel


Brent Friedman on 7.04.2009 at 10:42 PM

Marcel,

WGS grabbed the screenshots for a future version, not the latest released version. Can you please tell me a bit about the audio file that won't play? What is the bitrate, file name, length, and file size?


Chris on 7.05.2009 at 5:12 PM

I'm having a problem with the whs mobile service not running. When I attempt to start thru whs settings or the services console, it immediately stops. After reading thru numerous forum posts I've realized that I don't have my domain configured thru the whs console. I use dyndns instead. Is it possible to add a registry string or something in order to point the service at the right domain? Do you think this is causing my whs mobile service to stop?


Brent Friedman on 7.05.2009 at 10:29 PM

Currently a yourname.HomeServer.com or similar sub-domain configured through the console is required. The next version I wll be releasing through the app store, will not require this. I will be switching from the service to an .NET (IIS) application. For now though, just setup a domain using the Console. You can still use your dyndns name (if you have an SSL certificate for the dyndns name, back it up beforehand) with the WHS and in the iPhone after.


Vishal on 7.06.2009 at 11:44 AM

Hi Brent, I instaleld the service on my WHS and it's running with password set, port 8169 forwarded on my uPnP router and on the Firewall. I have the Remote Access not checked.

On the iPhone, I have the domain correct as name.homeserver.com and the password that I created under WHS Mobile Settings. I can launch the app, see all the uPnP ports and the users correctly. But, everytime I tap Files, the app crashes and takes me back to the Springboard.

I am on iPhone 3G, 3.0 and jailbroken with AppSync.

Any ideas?


Chris on 7.06.2009 at 7:15 PM

Brent,

Thanks for the reply. That did the trick, and I am able to browse my server from my iphone! I am looking forward to the final app store release.


Brian on 7.07.2009 at 9:27 AM

I am using the Windows Mobile Client on a Palm Treo, and am unable to see or access all of the icons on the screen after logging on to the home server. Is it possible to add scrolling to the screens for those of us with smaller screen sizes.


Brent Friedman on 7.07.2009 at 6:09 PM

Brian,

I will do as you suggested in the next version.


sean on 7.10.2009 at 6:01 AM

I know you say this works with windows based phones also but would a symbian OS run this? I have an e71 and would love something like this. Thanks.


JDPTOOTALL on 7.10.2009 at 8:21 AM

Brent - does this addin work on the iPod Touch as well? Thanks and great work!


Tommo on 7.10.2009 at 10:46 AM

@JDPTOOTALL

Correct me if I'm incorrect (Brent) but as long as you have firmware version 3.0, it should indeed work as intended.


Brent Friedman on 7.10.2009 at 6:23 PM

@Tommo,

Correct.

@Sean,

Sorry, I belive Symbian is a totally different OS. Therefore, it won't work. Like the Blackberry, I have no plans on making a Symbian version in the future.


Chris on 7.13.2009 at 2:13 AM

Hi Brent

Are you any further on with development to allow for an official release via the iTunes store? I know it's a major PITA, but I just can't wait for this app to be published.

Keep up the good work!


Joe on 7.15.2009 at 9:00 AM

Will be happy to donate some funds for an app like this!


smoothbond on 7.15.2009 at 2:54 PM

This is still not working for me, on a brand new jailbroken iphone 3GS, the app sill crashes to the dashboard when i click on anything after launhing it and i have checked and doublechecked all my settings. this is very frusrating indeed


smoothbond on 7.15.2009 at 3:40 PM

looks like I'm gonna have to give up on this app, its been 2 weeks since i first posted.If a definitive fiix ever comes out please let me know. its a shame cos this is why i jaibroke my iphone. anyway thanks all


OriiginalPrime on 7.16.2009 at 10:35 AM

Brent,

I, for one, welcome my new WHS App overlord. Thanks for the very hard work.

I am looking forward to purchasing the non-jailbroken app from the App Store, though I do have one question as to the functionality:

I do not use standard server HTTP(S) ports due to having multiple servers on my network. Does this App use a proprietary port and is it user configurable?

The problem I have with HP's implementation is that the code their running through doesn't work with non-standard ports.

Thoughts?


Brent Friedman on 7.17.2009 at 1:17 AM

@Smoothbond,

I'm sorry to hear that. The next version will have detailed error messages, this way I can know what the problem is. At the moment, I can only take a blind guess. Did you leave off the http:// in the Domain setting? Turned off the firewall to test that it is not being blocked? Forwarded port 8169 just in case? Checked if the WHS Mobile service is actually running? As I said, I'm sorry it doesn't work for you, the next version should. I'll have actual instructions to go with it..

@OriiginalPrime,

The next version will be using IIS and not a system service. That will allow for multiple sessions and different users. By default it will use the same port as before (8169) using HTTP and not HTTPs. I can see about HTTPs (SSL) encryption, but it will greatly slow things down. SSL is much slower. I will make the port configurable and add a setting to the iPhone/WM App.


OriginalPrime on 7.17.2009 at 5:27 AM

@ Brent

Thank you for the reply. To clarify, I'm perfectly fine with HTTP for an application such as this. I'm just commenting that I have reconfigured both the HTTP and the HTTPS ports on my WHS box. I wasn't sure which variety your app is using.

So thank you for setting me straight! I anticipate your App Store release!


smoothbond on 7.17.2009 at 8:41 AM

Thanks for responding Brent and Yes, I'd already done everything you suggested. I'll have to wait for the next version. No worries


Doc on 7.19.2009 at 11:51 AM

Has anyone had any luck running on a 3GS? I waited for the ultrasn0w related routine and I get WHSmobile to start then it it quits to Springboard after a few minutes. Read and reread all the instructions on the Mediaserver and iPhone side, so wondering if 3GS is the issue.

Brent, thanks for all the hard work. I hope you take up the offer of one of the folks to front the $100 into the app store.


David on 7.22.2009 at 8:16 AM

I am running the latest version of the WHS mobile device on my Sprint Mogul, but cannot get it to connect - every time I try, I get:

An unexpected error has occured in WHS Mobile.exe.

Select Quit and then restart this program, or select Details for more information.

Method not found: get_NewLine

System.Environment

Any ideas??

Thank you!!

-David


Brent Friedman on 7.23.2009 at 3:24 AM

David,

I know someone with the same device also had a problem. I'm not sure why though. I've looked up the error and there isn't much information on it. I don't know how to fix that, I'm sorry.


Chris on 7.24.2009 at 8:35 AM

Brent

Any update on the 'official' iTunes store version of WHS Mobile?

I'm getting frustrated with everytime I check your site and it's still not here.

Hoping it's not going to be too much longer.

Chris


Peter Ullmann on 7.24.2009 at 10:06 AM

on the german version of the WHS i was able to install WHS Mobile once. The application shows up in setings once. After trying to change the options the console crashes and after reopening the console the WHS Mobile application was gone. Removing and reinstalling didn´t fix the problem. Help would be appreciated


Brent Friedman on 7.24.2009 at 6:02 PM

@Chris,

I'm still working on acquiring the funds. I'd rather not take a loan from someone. I like to do things myself, and not worry about paying someone back.

@Peter,

Please send the log files ( info on how to get them here: wiki.wegotserved.com/.../index.php ), and send them to: support [at] brentf [dot] com


Aaron on 7.26.2009 at 9:26 AM

The app keeps crashing when opening files and users.

I will write a full review on my site once it's up and running.

Franclan.com


Brent Friedman on 7.26.2009 at 2:27 PM

@Aaron,

Yes, it wasn't totally finished. I had just wanted to push out what I had. For fear that I wouldn't get around to doing it. Somewhat why 1.0.5.5 is so close to 1.0.5, time-line wise.


DeadDuck on 7.26.2009 at 6:29 PM

Hi Brent...

I followed all the instructions and the WHSmobile app was installed properly on my iPhone. I tried configuring the WHS server from settings page, but as I don't have domain name configured for my WHS, I used the IP. But I've having the same issue of app crashing if I click on Files or Users option.

My router is UPNP capable and iPhone is properly configured for WIFI access. Please Help!!


Brent Friedman on 7.27.2009 at 10:49 AM

@DeadDuck,

The domain is currently required for it to work. In the next version, it won't be. After setting up a WHS domain, try starting the WHS Mobile Service and then try your iPhone.


Nitro32105 on 7.28.2009 at 7:41 AM

Just curious if you are still submitting this app through the app store. I have no interest in jail-breaking my phone, but am really interested in this app and add in for WHS.


Ingalls on 8.01.2009 at 12:03 PM

Thanks for the software. Just wanted to say that it was working great with both windows mobile and Iphone with wifi. Not working with 3G maybe because the port is blocked from the provider... ANy possibility to stream to ssl port or 80 port should be great


Nate on 8.01.2009 at 3:45 PM

I would imagine that any streaming over the cellular network would probably lead to rejection of the app by apple. AT&T would probably through a fit about it.


NK on 8.01.2009 at 4:14 PM

Hi , is the iphone app unavailable at this time?


frank rizzo on 8.01.2009 at 10:14 PM

iphone app download link on this page is broken. Please check it.


Brent Friedman on 8.03.2009 at 4:49 AM

@Ingalls,

The next version will go through the Home Server's Web Server. I'll see about using port 80, but a lot of ISPs block that port. Going over SSL (HTTPS) will be even slower.

@Nate,

Possibly, I'll have to look over the 'rules'.

@NK & Frank Rizzo,

Sorry about that, just noticed I forgot to do something in the server configuration.. It should work now.


andre on 8.07.2009 at 12:05 AM

iphone app download link on this page is broken. Please check it


Fussoir on 8.07.2009 at 1:23 AM

Thanks for your addin but it's the same for me, I can't download it...


Brent Friedman on 8.07.2009 at 8:05 PM

Sorry, I thought I fixed it.. It *does* work now.


andre on 8.08.2009 at 3:31 AM

thx


Fussoir on 8.08.2009 at 5:28 AM

It's working! Thanks again :)


andre on 8.08.2009 at 1:57 PM

Everything was going well until I tried to sync.

I got an Unknown Error 0xE8008018.


andre on 8.08.2009 at 2:23 PM

Sorry i dont read everything y forget the patch.its working now

but it dont want o play music from the whs


Brent Friedman on 8.08.2009 at 3:07 PM

Andre,

Are the audio files MP3? Do you get an error message when you try?


andre on 8.09.2009 at 3:13 AM

Yes the audio files are MP3,

But no y have a problem to login when y click on the icon on my iphone and go to the files or users he is cooing back to the start screen.


Brent Friedman on 8.09.2009 at 5:41 PM

@Andre,

Try restarting the home server. Also make sure your mp3's bitrate is not higher than 128 kb/s. I've had problems with higher bitrates.


Rico on 8.13.2009 at 10:24 AM

What a great idea! Is there any plans to port this to Android?


Brent Friedman on 8.15.2009 at 1:35 AM

Rico,

Most likely, no. Not unless I get an Android device. I usually make this stuff for myself and share it with others. If I can't use something, I don't see it worth while. If you have an Android device, I am sorry.


Nishal Patel on 8.18.2009 at 10:06 PM

Not gonna work for now at the momment. Port 80 is blocked on my ISP. HTTPS is open and other ports. Until this port is configurable, I am out...


Nishal Patel on 8.18.2009 at 10:08 PM

Never mind last comment. Working fine now. Not sure what was wrong...


Marko Sellnow on 8.19.2009 at 5:44 AM

Question:

Is WHS Mobil working on a german Windows Home Server Version ???


Greg on 8.26.2009 at 11:17 AM

I'm trying to run this on a Motorola Q9c. Get an error every time I try to start the program on my phone. NotSupportedException at Microsoft.AGL.Common.MISC.HandleAr(PAL_ERROR ar) at System.Windows.Forms.Control._InitInstance(WNT wnt, UInt32 dwStyle)...it goes on. Any suggestions.


Brent Friedman on 8.27.2009 at 3:59 PM

@Marko Sellnow,

Not the currently released version, sorry.

@Greg,

Yes, I forgot to mention in the release notes that it only works on touch screen devices. It's a limitation with the .NET framework on the 'smartphone' edition (non-touch version). I'm planning on putting out a smartphone version when I release the next version of WHS Mobile.


Johan on 8.28.2009 at 6:31 AM

When will you release the app on appstore ?


Brent Friedman on 8.28.2009 at 10:56 PM

@Johan,

Please read this page: brentf.com/.../iphone-membersh


mike_nl on 9.05.2009 at 5:57 AM

Hi Brent,

i have made a test with the last whs mobile client for windwos mobile on my HTC TouchPro2, but i isn't working at all. The WHS is on the right way configured but i cant connect to the whs client add-in. Is the something what you can advise to test?


Brent Friedman on 9.06.2009 at 6:14 AM

@Mike_nl,

Please make sure port 8169 is properly forwarded and that the WHS Mobile service is running on your WHS. Also make sure you changed the settings on the WHS Mobile client before trying to connect. Clear out the password before making any changes because the password you enter is going to be encrypted.


Brad on 9.06.2009 at 5:24 PM

Hi Brent,

Could you please check the following post on whs+

forum.wegotserved.com/.../index.php

Im having an issue with my phone being stuck in a loop after installing the client.

Cheers

Brad


alterSchwede on 9.16.2009 at 9:08 AM

Hi,

i think your Add In is a really good idea, but i have like many other WHS User a german WHS...

it would be really nice if you develop the next version also for a german whs version!

greetz!


Jason on 9.16.2009 at 10:16 PM

ten bucks to the cause... shure why not.


Larry on 9.17.2009 at 9:41 PM

I see WHS Mobile in the Apple App Store, but there aren't any reviews after 12 days? Has anyone done a review on the released version of the iPhone version that I can read? Any additional screenshots that can be viewed somewhere? Thanks.


Brent Friedman on 9.18.2009 at 12:03 AM

Larry,

It actually just got approved today. I submitted it 12 days ago. I'm writing the release post right now.


Pete on 9.19.2009 at 6:06 AM

Why is the iPhone app only available in the US ?