AdAway/AdAway ? reverse-engineered prompt

Build me an Android app that blocks ads by using the hosts file and a local VPN, with support for rooted devices too. I want a simple home screen where users can turn protection on and off, see whether blocking is active, manage host sources, and update the block lists. Include a preferences screen for things like VPN controls, notifications, startup on boot, and which apps should be excluded from filtering. Also add backup and restore for the app settings, plus a help section that explains how it works and how to get started.

Make it feel like a real privacy focused app, with clear status messages and reliable background behavior. If you need to check the latest Android docs or API details, look them up online. Keep it open source friendly and make sure it works on Android 8 and above.