Android Phones

[wyeast]

I've seen the WiFi "cycling" like that on my Sensation - but I've figured that it's a specific issue with certain routers (or maybe their settings?). For example, at work, my signal cycles wildly, so much that I can't connect (neither can my cow-orkers iPhones). But at home and at my neighbor's house, it connects like a champ.

I've heard (but not been able to confirm since we couldn't get into the work router to tweak settings) that if the router is broadcasting multiband (b/g, or g/n) that can cause some wonkyness with cellphone WiFi... dunno?

Not that it's necessarily related to what the Nexus S's are doing, but it could be worth checking other wifi connections to see if they're the same?

[bstiff]

Seems like it. I'm playing with it right now and the wifi goes from full to 1 bar even though im only 5 feet away from the router. The 3g signal is doing the same but it's never had full signal.

Guess it's a good things I didn't wait with mine. It was doing the same thing. It would cycle sequentially through 4g 3g and wifi and loosing signals on all of them and then starting over. Maybe it's some weird glitch in the radio software they havent figured out yet?

[Abyssion]

So I don't know about anyone else here, but my Droid 1 is starting to tick me off. Has anyone ever had problems with their touchscreen going apeshit and selecting things or typing things/punching in numbers without any input? If so, how do I resolve this problem. I did some internet searching and people are saying that it happened because their screen isn't clean.

I have never experienced this in the 20ish months I have owned the phone. It's time for an upgrade but the account holder is asking me to wait a bit longer. I guess I better do a bit of research into the Droid 3...

[J Arcane]

I used to get all kinds of weird stuff with my G1 unless the screen was perfectly spotless.

Overtime, I've come to conclude that this is the result of shitty/broken hardware. My N1 was still finicky, but far less so, and my iPad is rarely ever cleaned and the thing works almost flawlessly.

It may be time to upgrade.

[johnperkins21]

So I don't know about anyone else here, but my Droid 1 is starting to tick me off. Has anyone ever had problems with their touchscreen going apeshit and selecting things or typing things/punching in numbers without any input? If so, how do I resolve this problem. I did some internet searching and people are saying that it happened because their screen isn't clean.

I have never experienced this in the 20ish months I have owned the phone. It's time for an upgrade but the account holder is asking me to wait a bit longer. I guess I better do a bit of research into the Droid 3...

My Droid Incredible does this on me all the time, but it's the little sensor pad at the bottom of the phone that gets dirty. Compressed air helps a little. Not sure how it would happen on the screen. Are you certain it's not an issue with your keyboard/direction pad being dirty or somehow getting pressed? That would be my guess with that model.

[Abyssion]

My Droid Incredible does this on me all the time, but it's the little sensor pad at the bottom of the phone that gets dirty. Compressed air helps a little. Not sure how it would happen on the screen. Are you certain it's not an issue with your keyboard/direction pad being dirty or somehow getting pressed? That would be my guess with that model.

If I slide out the keyboard part and unsleep my phone the touch screen still lights up as if pass-motion is being attempted. I can open it up everywhere I can and shoot it with some compressed air and see what happens. By sensor pad, do you mean the bar at the bottom with the Back, Home, etc. buttons?

Update: So I ordered a Droid 3 today, using AmazonWireless (they just act as an intermediary or something) and I get to retain my unlimited data plan from the looks of it, but this time I am adding on the extended warranty so if my screen malfunctions it can be covered. Insurance doesn't seem like its my thing since it costs more and I never lose my phone or have it stolen.

I think I did pretty good overall, the phone cost 149.99 (which is the most I've ever paid for a phone) and I get free activation, I should have it by Thursday.

[Superman's Dead]

Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrghhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Trying to get my phone back to stock is a whole fucking mess.

[Superman's Dead]

So I went through a BUNCH of stuff to figure a few things out.

My phone isn't flashing any ROMs and I don't know why.

I want to flash it to stock, but absolutely nothing is working. I reinstalled all the drivers so that I can find it in adb, but it doesn't show up in Odin and 'reboot download' just makes the phone reboot. I downloaded QuickBoot, but under no circumstances will my phone get in download mode.

I just want to get back to stock why is this so frustrating why

[Pigeon]

So my wife and I both have G2's and about a week ago my phone updated to 2.3.4 but hers is still on 2.2. Any way to force hers to get the update too?

[bstiff]

So my wife and I both have G2's and about a week ago my phone updated to 2.3.4 but hers is still on 2.2. Any way to force hers to get the update too?


Other than using the upgrade software option in the menu, a couple things that worked for me in the past with my droid x were to shut the phone off completely and let it sit for a couple minutes and then power if back up. The other was to do a complete factory reset but you loose all your data.

[Rogue_hunter]

So I went through a BUNCH of stuff to figure a few things out.

My phone isn't flashing any ROMs and I don't know why.

I want to flash it to stock, but absolutely nothing is working. I reinstalled all the drivers so that I can find it in adb, but it doesn't show up in Odin and 'reboot download' just makes the phone reboot. I downloaded QuickBoot, but under no circumstances will my phone get in download mode.

I just want to get back to stock why is this so frustrating why

Getting to Download Mode on the Captivate is a PITA. What's even worse is that even though I did it last week, I can't remember how I got it to actually work. What I can remember involved 3-button recovery, but it was a different order than listed in the xda thread and was completely stupid.

[Superman's Dead]

Getting to Download Mode on the Captivate is a PITA. What's even worse is that even though I did it last week, I can't remember how I got it to actually work. What I can remember involved 3-button recovery, but it was a different order than listed in the xda thread and was completely stupid.

I got it flashed to an okay version of MIUI, but after I do a Titanium Backup recovery of apps and system data it all falls apart. I just factory wiped again, and I think I'll only do a selective app restore, no system data.

[evilgoodwin]

I think I was lucky with mine. There's a ton of step-by-step youtube videos that show the entire process and walk you through it for the Epic. Maybe you'll get lucky with yours, Supes.

Yeah, I had some major issues restoring things from Titanium Backup. I think it's best to write down the apps you have and just re-download them since some don't get tied to the market when restored from backup.

[Xydarc]

Any idea when the Galaxy S II is going to hit the US? I have an upgrade to use and I'd really really like that phone. Not only will I be popping my smartphone cherry, I'll be popping my Android cherry as well.:D

[Rogue_hunter]

Any idea when the Galaxy S II is going to hit the US? I have an upgrade to use and I'd really really like that phone. Not only will I be popping my smartphone cherry, I'll be popping my Android cherry as well.:D

The AT&T variant just got approved by the FCC, but the only word I've seen on any of the models is "August."
oh hey, look at that, it's August and still no word.

[Suave Peanut]

I recall hearing that Verizon was getting one near the first of September.

[wyeast]

I've also been hearing vaguely "fall", but that's kind of up in the air as they seem to be tweaking the hardware - they may not be straight up "Galaxy S II's" that we're seeing overseas now...

[bstiff]

Isn't the new nexus due out in the fall too? I head rumors that it's supposed to be a S II variant. Rumor is that it's supposed to be coming to verizon around November.

[J Arcane]

I must confess: the shaky state of the present emulator handheld market and my time spent with SNES9x on iPad has made me tempted to get an Xperia Play.

I've not really heard good things though. I just think it'd be nice for the gamepad for playing emulators.

[bstiff]

Samsung is sending out invitations for an announcement at the end of the month:

http://phandroid.com/2011/08/12/samsung-hosting-samsung-galaxy-s-ii-event-in-nyc-august-29/

Sounds like they're announcing the Galaxy S II then.

[Suave Peanut]

I considered an Xperia Play for a minute for similar reasons but I figured that I already have a 3DS for that.

[Zero]

Ditto. I'm not a huge fan of mobile gaming either. I am greatly enjoy my EVO 3D. I've even using the 3D camera more than I thought I would. I'm so glad I switched instead of sticking around waiting for iPhone 5 in a month or two.


I've seen the WiFi "cycling" like that on my Sensation - but I've figured that it's a specific issue with certain routers (or maybe their settings?). For example, at work, my signal cycles wildly, so much that I can't connect (neither can my cow-orkers iPhones). But at home and at my neighbor's house, it connects like a champ.

I've heard (but not been able to confirm since we couldn't get into the work router to tweak settings) that if the router is broadcasting multiband (b/g, or g/n) that can cause some wonkyness with cellphone WiFi... dunno?

Not that it's necessarily related to what the Nexus S's are doing, but it could be worth checking other wifi connections to see if they're the same?

My wife's been playing with her Nexus S for a week now and hasn't had a single dropped call or wifi connection issue. The signal bars are all over the place but she has no complaints about reception or data streaming. I've told her to keep an eye on it but I don't think we'll end up returning it.

[J Arcane]

I love mobile gaming, though moreso now that I have an iPad than when I had my Android, which mostly played a handful of games plus emulators.

I'm just shaky about spending $100-170 on something that might turn out to be a useless Hong Kong paperweight. The Dingoo seems underpowered, and the GP2X doesn't seem to have a company behind it anymore.

But $450 for an unlocked Xperia is pretty extreme as well. Especially when I'd have to get a plan and that would balloon my phone bill by a good $80-100.

[Codicier]

Is it typical to have your phone just not ring when someone is calling you and then show up with a missed call later? I've had a Nexus S since May and there will be times when I miss calls while holding the phone in my hand, not once hearing a ring or anything. I don't know if it's a signal thing since my phone signal jumps around a lot when moving around the city but I think I've seen a couple of missed calls even with a non-empty signal strength. On Mobilicity here in Canada if anyone is on the network and knows something about their coverage or issues they might have.

It's just frustrating to not be reliably able to accept calls when they happen. I'm kind of worried if there's ever an emergency or something that this is going to bite me.

[Joshkdmw]

That's a network problem, I think. Used to happen with me on Bell, then after switching networks, problem solved.

[Suave Peanut]

That happened to me regularly on a Galaxy S Fascinate when I was running the stock ROM, so it could possibly be a software problem.

[Voodoo]

Google is purchasing Motorola Mobility!

[J Arcane]

Well good. Maybe without them having to rely on other companies for their mainstream phones they can finally set a solid standard in the market. Next they just need to buy some cell towers . . . ;)

[PathMaster]

Droid X3 please. And let it be AWESOME!

[jpublic]

I am unsure if this means Google is going to make phones. It seems like a patent grab to me. $12B for all of Motorola Mobility's patents is a steal.

[Entropy]

This will allow them to be more vertical which is why Apple is doing so well

[wyeast]

Sensations and EVO3D's are getting updated to 2.3.4 :)

[Zero]

!!!!

An update right after I got my phone? I knew you guys were exaggerating the state of Android updates. :p

[wyeast]

!!!!

An update right after I got my phone? I knew you guys were exaggerating the state of Android updates. :p

To be fair, as I mentioned before, it seems that manufacturers (and by extension, carriers) have learned that they need to keep the updates flowing or people become quite bitter about being left behind. Not all updates come quickly or smoothly. There are still a number of phones out there that aren't to Gingerbread yet.

For this one, it was probably a fairly minor thing to go from 2.3.3 to 2.3.4 - it seems more importantly are the additional fixes each phone got to go along with it:

HTC Sensation 4G Android 2.3.4 Fixes and Enhancements

Software stability
Improved battery life
Improvements to Trace dictionary
Improvements to screen responsiveness
Improvements to video playbook
Improvements regarding device reboots
Improvements to icon pixelation
Improvements to Wi-Fi connection
Improvements to screen/photo resolution

HTC EVO 3D Android 2.3.4 Fixes and Enhancements

Making additional preloaded apps un-installable by user.
Updates to applications: Spiderman, Watch, Qik
Device Lockscreen stuck in “half-state”
Ability to transfer all contacts over Bluetooth
Birthday one day off between contacts and Facebook when synced
Random GPS coordinates issue – stuck in Taiwan
Lockscreen displays 3-digit temperature correctly
Spiderman demo lockup


Although I've heard that mysteriously, the Evo's lost the ability to toggle the camera shutter sound with the update - mine's still muted on the Sensation. *shrugs* YMMV.

(edit) Sonofabitch! The Sensations have the same birthday bug* as the Evo! Why didn't we get that fix?? :mad:

*Not a bug, but a compatibility problem because FB insists on marking a birthday as an all-day event starting at 12:00am rather than 12:01am, so it registers as starting the day prior.

[Zero]

The 3D can take sceeenshots as well now.

[Zero]

Crap. Amazon just dropped the price on the Evo 3D to $99 with free activation. I just got mine on the 6th for $145 plus the activation. Think there's anything Amazon would do for me?

[Crittias]

So, rumor has it the next developer Android phone, Nexus Prime, could be a Verizon exclusive. I'm currently a TMo user with a Nexus S, but TMo coverage in my new town is less than stellar. So, I'd be up for a switch to Verizon. However, I need my next phone to work in Europe. Anyone heard whether or not the Prime will be a "world phone"?

[J Arcane]

Suppose I should share this: http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/xperia-play-4g-hitting-atandt-on-september-18-for-50-on-contract/

Kinda tempted for that price. Wonder what it would be off-contract.

[Superman's Dead]

Suppose I should share this: http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/xperia-play-4g-hitting-atandt-on-september-18-for-50-on-contract/

Kinda tempted for that price. Wonder what it would be off-contract.

God. For the emulating alone.

[PathMaster]

Odd question. Have a friend who would like to purchase a smartphone for ATT. She was looking at the Impulse because it looked interesting via commercial.

She would not want something huge, but easy to use and good call quality. Here is where it gets a little harder. She is a nurse and wants something with good access to Nurse's Drug guide and assorted related things. Anyone with experience in this area? I know Android has a fair selection, what about iOS?

Impulse did not get great reviews, especially in the sound quality area. iPhone 3GS is free, but I don't know about the longevity of the hardware. Comments or suggestions?

Doing a quick look on Amazon, feelings on the Samsung Captivate or HTC Inspire 4g?

Thanks!

[Zagrash]

Odd question. Have a friend who would like to purchase a smartphone for ATT. She was looking at the Impulse because it looked interesting via commercial.

She would not want something huge, but easy to use and good call quality. Here is where it gets a little harder. She is a nurse and wants something with good access to Nurse's Drug guide and assorted related things. Anyone with experience in this area? I know Android has a fair selection, what about iOS?

Impulse did not get great reviews, especially in the sound quality area. iPhone 3GS is free, but I don't know about the longevity of the hardware. Comments or suggestions?

Doing a quick look on Amazon, feelings on the Samsung Captivate or HTC Inspire 4g?

Thanks!

For the nursing guides, there seems to be a pretty good selection of apps for the Nurse's Drug Guide (https://market.android.com/search?q=nurse+drug+guide&so=1&c=apps), although the full versions look to be a bit pricey.

Unfortunately I don't have too much to say about the Android phones on AT&T, I'm on T-mob, and will probably be going to Sprint if this sale goes though, so I haven't done much research on the AT&T exclusive phones.

[Xerxes]

Samsung Galaxy S II Just came out.

I know there is a Lexi-Comp (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.lexi.android&hl=en) app. That was supposed to be big shit on WinMo PDAs back when I worked in a College of Pharmacy.

http://lpntobsnonline.org/2010/top-25-android-apps-for-healthcare-professionals/

[Xerxes]

I'm on T-mob, and will probably be going to Sprint if this sale goes though, so I haven't done much research on the AT&T exclusive phones.
High five!

Funny thing is most folks I know also feel the same way.

[J Arcane]

Odd question. Have a friend who would like to purchase a smartphone for ATT. She was looking at the Impulse because it looked interesting via commercial.

She would not want something huge, but easy to use and good call quality. Here is where it gets a little harder. She is a nurse and wants something with good access to Nurse's Drug guide and assorted related things. Anyone with experience in this area? I know Android has a fair selection, what about iOS?

Impulse did not get great reviews, especially in the sound quality area. iPhone 3GS is free, but I don't know about the longevity of the hardware. Comments or suggestions?

Doing a quick look on Amazon, feelings on the Samsung Captivate or HTC Inspire 4g?

Thanks!
There are a number of well rated nursing books and apps on the App Store (Nursing Central in particular looks great, with drug and disease guides and all sorts of handy info), and the iPhone 4 is going down in price to $99 on contract after the 14th for the 8GB version. Unless Siri's natural language voice commands appeal, I'd recommend that, as it doesn't sound she'll need the extra hardware.

[PathMaster]

Ah, so there is some possibilities then on iOS. Nursing Central looks impressive in scope and in cost!! Gave her the info. Hopefully that helps some.

Thanks!

[Zero]

There are a number of well rated nursing books and apps on the App Store (Nursing Central in particular looks great, with drug and disease guides and all sorts of handy info), and the iPhone 4 is going down in price to $99 on contract after the 14th for the 8GB version. Unless Siri's natural language voice commands appeal, I'd recommend that, as it doesn't sound she'll need the extra hardware.

I could have sworn that Apple confirmed that Siri would only run with the A5 chip.

[J Arcane]

I could have sworn that Apple confirmed that Siri would only run with the A5 chip.
Perhaps my phrasing was unclear. What I meant was, unless she desires Siri, get an iPhone 4. If she does desire Siri, obviously there's no choice but to get a 4S.

[Zero]

Perhaps my phrasing was unclear. What I meant was, unless she desires Siri, get an iPhone 4. If she does desire Siri, obviously there's no choice but to get a 4S.

My mistake, I did misunderstand what you meant.

[muddi900]

So I finally managed put a port of CM7 on this phone. Mmmm, tasty gingerbread. Anyway, the market doesn't work. Any suggestions?

[Lithium Flower]

You need to add it all the google apps separately. There's a package on the CM7 forums for gingerbread phones.

Once you get Market, you need to fish out an app called Market Enabler which allows you to spoof your location otherwise you won't be able to install most google apps from the market directly for some odd reason.

[muddi900]

I should've been clearer; I did add the google apps, I can install apps by searching, but none of my old apps appear in My Apps. I'll try market enabler.

[Lithium Flower]

Oh, you mean the apps that you had installed prior to flashing to CM7? I think you will need to reinstall them again or restore an app back up like Titanium or whathaveyou. They don't survive a flash in my experience.

[Xerxes]

Signed up for info on the Galaxy Nexus just so they know i have interest for the TMO version. I mean if it's before the year is up, I'll work on getting one gifted to me like my Nexus One. I figure it looks like a decent enough phone. 4G (21Mbps) is better than none. Galaxy S2 has 4G(42Mbps) but that comes with strings. Also a little bummed on the no SD card slot but it's 32GB. That's enough. Also shutter free lag looks neat.

[JayVe]

Oh, you mean the apps that you had installed prior to flashing to CM7? I think you will need to reinstall them again or restore an app back up like Titanium or whathaveyou. They don't survive a flash in my experience.

Re-loading your Apps is one of the best things about webOS devices.

When you get a new device (or re-format your existing one) all you have to do is sign-in using your profile details. The phone then syncs everything back the way it was. All your apps, contacts, and goodies show up on your new device.

Even when I got the Touchpad. After the sign-in process, all my phone's data and apps were synced wirelessly to the tablet. No syncing with iTunes. No scouring the marketplace trying to remember which apps you had installed.

This has been going on for three years now. I'm honestly shocked that none of my Android devices have anything remotely similar.

[Superman's Dead]

Titanium Backup, if used correctly, does exactly that. Obviously it isn't wireless, but if you're clever (auto-backup combined with dropbox or something similar) all you need is the titanium backup and dropbox apks and you're golden

[JayVe]

Titanium Backup, if used correctly, does exactly that. Obviously it isn't wireless, but if you're clever (auto-backup combined with dropbox or something similar) all you need is the titanium backup and dropbox apks and you're golden

Oh, I've used Titanium. It isn't nearly the same as what I'm discussing. Even my old Treo had a life-saver of a backup program that would dump everything to the SD card.

What webOS offers is a game-changer... and easy enough for EVERYONE to use. In fact, the whole process is invisible. There isn't ever a need to ever think of a backup for most of your info.

Granted, it does not backup your media, but your apps, contacts and vitals are all backed up online, automagically.

[appel]

Android also supports backing up what apps you have installed. I just got my Nexus One back from service and I logged in and all my apps were automatically downloaded and installed. Unfortunately it relies on the app developers to take advantage of it for app data to be backed up, and you know when you rely on developers for useful features.. it never happens. ;) (I'm a developer btw)

[Dualshotty23]

Titanium Backup, if used correctly, does exactly that. Obviously it isn't wireless, but if you're clever (auto-backup combined with dropbox or something similar) all you need is the titanium backup and dropbox apks and you're golden

Titanium backup is wonderful for android especially when flashign new roms. I do believe that to restore all apps with one click you have to have the pro paid version though, otherwise you have to click to install each on individually. Although, that is still better than searching the market for everythign again.

(I haven't used the free version for over a year no so it may have changed.)

[muddi900]

Ok, no youtube app in the market. I can see it in my browser.


EDIT: Apparently us filthy pakis have no right to cute cat videos. The Fuck?

EDIT: Also maps...

[PathMaster]

Motorola Plans for Android 4.0, ICS, via MaxPC (http://www.maximumpc.com/article/news/motorola_plans_update_some_devices_android_40_with in_six_weeks):

That’s why Motorola’s new statement via Twitter is so surprising. In a series of Tweets, the OEM has confirmed that 6 weeks after the code is available, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich will be in the hands of some Moto users

The devices called out are the Droid RAZR, Bionic, and Xoom tablet. At that point, the company says it will make a decision on other devices.

Article does mention how this will all fall when Google takes over Motorola. I am just wondering if my Droid X will get the update, since supposedly anything that can run Gingerbread, will run ICS.

[Lithium Flower]

Titanium backup is wonderful for android especially when flashign new roms. I do believe that to restore all apps with one click you have to have the pro paid version though, otherwise you have to click to install each on individually. Although, that is still better than searching the market for everythign again.

(I haven't used the free version for over a year no so it may have changed.)


The Free Version does batch restores as well. It doesn't freeze/unfreeze applications, only the paid one does though.

Ok, no youtube app in the market. I can see it in my browser.


EDIT: Apparently us filthy pakis have no right to cute cat videos. The Fuck?

EDIT: Also maps...

Yes, no youtube, maps, navigation, streetview, gmail, talk etc. You need to use marketenabler to get those off the market. If Market Enabler isn't working, you need to revert to the old market. To do this, you need to go to Applications in Settings, select Market and roll back updates - then use titanium backup or adb or whatever to disable the Market Updater - then try again with market enabler.

OR

google for the required apks. They can be found here and there. The CM7 gapps package doesn't work because it downloads them from the market, which doesn't work because of the regional restriction problem. If you still have trouble, let me know and I'll email the apks to you.

[JayVe]

GameStop is launching a line of Android gaming tablets... complete with a certified bluetooth game controller.

http://www.modojo.com/features/gamestops_android_tablets_wireless_android_control ler_arrive/

The wireless controller is actually the best selling point for GameStop's tablets, one that differentiates them from the same tablets elsewhere. If you've got a tablet with HDMI output, and a wireless controller, you've got yourself a console that's at least equal to a Wii in graphic power (given that these tablets have Tegra 2 dual-core chips in them). The advantage of these "consoles" is that you can easily take them on the road, and they're useful for quite a variety of things. The wireless controller addresses many of the complaints people have had about gaming on tablets. All that remains is for these tablets to get some of the popular console titles ported to them, and it's going to be an interesting competition for the family room.

GameStop decided that they would not develop their own tablet at this time, but rather they selected several tablets they could pre-load with game titles to create a more compelling retail package. Asked about this, GameStop spokesperson Wendy Dominguez stated "GameStop is not developing its own tablet at this time. Instead, we have evaluated tablet offerings by established OEMs to determine a small assortment that makes sense for our business." GameStop is offering the Acer Iconia 7-inch tablet with 8 GB of memory for $329.99; the Asus Eee Pad Transformer 10.1 inch tablet with 16 GB of memory for $399; and the Smasung Galaxy Tab 10.1 inch tablet with 16 GB of memory for $499.

Additionally, GameStop is offering a Bluetooth wireless controller for $39 that's certified to work with the three tablets offered. Queried about the the wireless game controller; GameStop had no additional specs beyond what was offered on the web site. Dominguez did have this to say about the controller: "GameStop's internal R&D team designed, developed and manufactured the controller. GameStop is first to market with a Bluetooth gaming controller that takes tablet gaming to the next level. We will continue to work with our publisher partners and independent developers to create immersive games that utilize the GameStop Bluetooth tablet controller."

[muddi900]

Now only there were actual games...

Seriously speaking, it means a great portable emulator machine

[evilgoodwin]

$400 Angry Birds machine.

[jpublic]

Now only there were actual games...

Seriously speaking, it means a great portable emulator machine

FPSE, my friend.

[Joshkdmw]

FPSE, my friend.

I've had problems running that on my Iconia, personally.

To run digital versions of games I own physical copies of, naturally. The unholy war, Lunar -- that sort of thing.

[Xerxes]

Amaze, Galaxy SII or wait? Don't really have plans to leave TMO yet. Looks more and more like AT&T might have to find a plan B.

I'm actually thinking about just screwing freedom and the soap opera and do a contract with Sprint. Do they allow tethering? Can't find a solid yes or no.

[evilgoodwin]

Amaze, Galaxy SII or wait? Don't really have plans to leave TMO yet. Looks more and more like AT&T might have to find a plan B.

I'm actually thinking about just screwing freedom and the soap opera and do a contract with Sprint. Do they allow tethering? Can't find a solid yes or no.

I think they try to charge you for the right (ha) to tether, but rooting it and putting a 3rd party tether app on it takes almost no time. I just hate Samsung now because they never update the firmware.

[Rogue_hunter]

I think they try to charge you for the right (ha) to tether, but rooting it and putting a 3rd party tether app on it takes almost no time. I just hate Samsung now because they never update the firmware.

Samsung does active development, it's the carriers that slow the process down. When 2.3 came out, several (and I mean several, pretty much every iteration) versions of Samsung's ROMs leaked. They even included the AT&T bloatware built in, but AT&T has yet to approve ANY of them.

There's 2 versions of 2.3.5 for the Captivate (Galaxy S on AT&T) floating around, you just have to know where to look.

[Xerxes]

I think they try to charge you for the right (ha) to tether, but rooting it and putting a 3rd party tether app on it takes almost no time. I just hate Samsung now because they never update the firmware.

Rooting is a fact of life. I can't say I like it but I don't hate it. Just more work than I care for. Got to remove the bloatware somehow though.

[evilgoodwin]

"But with SprintTV, you can watch all of your favorite NASCAR events live through streaming!"

No thanks. I'm good.

"Would you like to use our special Sprint--"

NOPE.

[Zero]

"But with SprintTV, you can watch all of your favorite NASCAR events live through streaming!"

No thanks. I'm good.

"Would you like to use our special Sprint--"

NOPE.

I don't know if it's true for every Sprint phone but my Evo 3D got an update back in August that allowed me to uninstall most of the bloatware on the phone.

[Xerxes]

Think that always gets me about contracts is, I don't know what the fuck I'll be doing in two years. I don't know what I'll be doing in two months!

[JayVe]

Most of the time, my 2-year contract has flown by before I realized it.

Recently I've been doing a bit of traveling and picked up a GSM smartphone used on eBay. Gotta say, I LOVE the freedom it provides. No contracts. Works all over the world.

In fact, I use it as my Internet connection too. It doubles as my 3G modem. I just got 3G access turned on here for around $17 a month for 6GB of data. (http://geoffbee.blogspot.com/2011/11/vodafone-3g.html)

Now, I'm a HUGE proponent of Sprint's unlimited data. I think if you have caps on smartphones people won't use them to their full advantage. There will always be a little nagging suspicion over their head each time they use the GPS or look up something on Wikipedia. Also, smartphones are constantly syncing and talking over the network on their own, sipping away at your data cap.

If you have any decent level of stability, fairly steady job, house mortgage, etc. Then a 2 year contract probably isn't an issue.

If you really do live a life of uncertainty, adventure or travel a lot, then perhaps Sprint isn't the best choice.

[evilgoodwin]

I think I've had sprint for, like, 9 years now. While they were a pain when I first got them, I'm relatively pleased with their service. Of course, I just now have a phone from them that I don't despise.

[muddi900]

By the way, SonyEricsson and LG users get 50GB of free storage from Box.net if they login from their device. I downloaded the app on my rooted/CM7 LG phone and still got the extra storage. Their app is quite a lot better than Dropbox, but I haven't fiddled with the desktop app and I don't know if it's for indefinite period of time. I think I might have a backup solution now.


Most of the time, my 2-year contract has flown by before I realized it.

Recently I've been doing a bit of traveling and picked up a GSM smartphone used on eBay. Gotta say, I LOVE the freedom it provides. No contracts. Works all over the world.

In fact, I use it as my Internet connection too. It doubles as my 3G modem. I just got 3G access turned on here for around $17 a month for 6GB of data. (http://geoffbee.blogspot.com/2011/11/vodafone-3g.html)

Now, I'm a HUGE proponent of Sprint's unlimited data. I think if you have caps on smartphones people won't use them to their full advantage. There will always be a little nagging suspicion over their head each time they use the GPS or look up something on Wikipedia. Also, smartphones are constantly syncing and talking over the network on their own, sipping away at your data cap.

If you have any decent level of stability, fairly steady job, house mortgage, etc. Then a 2 year contract probably isn't an issue.

If you really do live a life of uncertainty, adventure or travel a lot, then perhaps Sprint isn't the best choice.

I am going to point how bizarre this post is to me, since it's a matter-of-fact down here. You buy a phone, you do whatever the fuck you want with it.

[JayVe]

I am going to point how bizarre this post is to me, since it's a matter-of-fact down here. You buy a phone, you do whatever the fuck you want with it.

True, but you probably pay a lot for your smartphone.

In the USA, you can get a fairly kick-ass smartphone with little or nothing up-front. When purchasing a phone for use overseas, I found smartphones can get darn pricey. Sometimes, a free phone in the US costs $500 up front if you buy it unlocked.

If you aren't moving much, then you'll probably stay in the same place for 2 years. Having the phone company give you a kick-ass phone for agreeing to stay with them often times makes a lot of sense.

[muddi900]

But there is also the price of the contract. You pay a lot more for the service.

[Xerxes]

You know I've had TMO since like they was VoiceStream. I think I been there nearly 11 years. It's a little weird thinking about breaking up. I know I will not do AT&T at all cost. I forget why but Verizon is out too. Price maybe?

[Xerxes]

It's funny. You ever fill yourself fighting a purchase knowing it's going to happen. Once I get a new phone, I'll be set for a while. In my head I keep hearing "That Galaxy SII will be mine!"

[JayVe]

But there is also the price of the contract. You pay a lot more for the service.

Here't the thing.

Cellphone service is expensive in America.
Buying an unlocked phone is expensive.

You HAVE to have the service. It isn't like the service gets cheaper if you buy your own phone. It isn't like the service gets cheaper if you pay month-to-month.

No matter how you look at it, you HAVE to get the service.

Now, you can pay for the expensive service, and get a phone for free (or a discount)

OR

You can pay for the expensive service and pay for an expensive phone.

You can see why most people get phones on contract in the USA. Paying up-front for an expensive phone and then paying an expensive monthly service fee does not compute. In America, the freedom offered by having an unlocked phone is nearly worthless. most people rarely change carriers. most people rarely travel outside the country. Most people use one of the big three national carriers.

Service fees are quite different in various parts of the world. In many smaller countries, you need the freedom and flexibility to travel outside your country and still get access.

I'm an International kind of guy, and I still sign contracts for my USA phone cause my family is there. It makes a lot of sense for me to have their phones all taken care of. My daughter is a huge data hog and my wife listens to streaming podcasts in her car daily. The truly unlimited data plans through Sprint are a godsend.

[Xerxes]

And if TMO dies, getting a contract will be the only way.

[appel]

A downside of getting a phone from american carriers is the built-in spyware..

http://www.xda-developers.com/android/the-storm-is-not-over-yet-lets-talk-about-ciq/

Then there's the issue of manufacturer and carrier additions with security vulnerabilities.

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2011/11/researchers-find-big-leaks-in-pre-installed-android-apps.ars

Not that "pure"/AOSP/Nexus Android is completely secure either, or any other OS.

[muddi900]

Service fees are quite different in various parts of the world. In many smaller countries, you need the freedom and flexibility to travel outside your country and still get access.


I have a sim card from every country I have ever visited. EVERYONE!

But the thing I noticed in the States is that the charges are specially jacked up if you have a smartphone. And not just for any sort of extra service. And you can have cheap service if you're looking for it.

[Xerxes]

A downside of getting a phone from american carriers is the built-in spyware..

http://www.xda-developers.com/android/the-storm-is-not-over-yet-lets-talk-about-ciq/

Then there's the issue of manufacturer and carrier additions with security vulnerabilities.

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2011/11/researchers-find-big-leaks-in-pre-installed-android-apps.ars

Not that "pure"/AOSP/Nexus Android is completely secure either, or any other OS.

Holy shit.

[muddi900]

A downside of getting a phone from american carriers is the built-in spyware..

http://www.xda-developers.com/android/the-storm-is-not-over-yet-lets-talk-about-ciq/

Then there's the issue of manufacturer and carrier additions with security vulnerabilities.

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2011/11/researchers-find-big-leaks-in-pre-installed-android-apps.ars

Not that "pure"/AOSP/Nexus Android is completely secure either, or any other OS.

There's a difference between security holes and blatant malware.

[appel]

There's a difference between security holes and blatant malware.

I didn't mean to imply that the articles I linked to was about the same thing?

[muddi900]

I was referring to your last sentence. All OS have security holes, not all have manufacturer installed malware.

[bone_matrix]

Finally...FINALLY after 20 months of using the Samsung Moment and then buying a used HTC Hero 4 months back from a friend and using Cyanogenmod 7 I have a new phone! I purchased the Galaxy S2 Sprint variant, the Epic Touch.

Holy crap!

Is this what everyone else feels like? Like, the phone works and does what you want it to do when you press or do something? Just downloads and installs are super fast! i thought my connection was slow, but it was the phone!

I was a bit worried that the phone would be too big, but its not. Its awesome! Anyone on Sprint, I can't recommend it enough!

[muddi900]

Did nobody tell them there phone is called Epic Touch?

[bone_matrix]

I always use the long ass name, so people know what I am talking about. Well, we who know what the Galaxy S2 is, but may not pay attention to the other branding, Epic Touch. Sounds dirty.

[Slack3r78]

I'm waiting til after CES and jumping over to VZW. Right now the Galaxy Nexus and Droid 4 are what really have my attention.

[Xerxes]

I just don't see the major upside to the Galaxy Nexus. And now that Verizon (along with everyone else) is putting bloatware on it. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/is-the-galaxy-nexus-still-a-nexus/) It's just kind of disgraceful. More reason Motorola should have done it this time. Or atleast went back to HTC. I will miss out on high resolution though. Really could of dug that.

Anyways! I got a Galaxy S II for Tmobile. It was a good phone out the box but this Beast Rom I have running just made it perfection. I mean this phone is probably would I've always imagined my Android phone to be but now it actually is. Big screen, smooth, great camera, lots of memory, and storage space. TMO 4G still leaves alot to be desired, but it's actually as fast as my broadband. From a couple years ago. Still faster than what my Nexus One was cranking out. I haven't cross an issue yet. I imagine it'll happen sooner or later. <shrug>

I truly hope Cyanogen Mod 9 comes soon though. On XDA, the guys running both this and the other main roms argue like babies. It's like seeing how the meat is made. I try not to go there but when you need a update. <sigh>

Also with OnPlay out, Xperia Play is looking kind of cool. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/use-your-xperia-play-gamepad-on-the-onlive-service-with-onlive-helper/)

[Xerxes]

Well Slacker, seems like tomorrow could be your lucky day.

http://androidandme.com/2011/12/news/verizon-galaxy-nexus-coming-1215-for-299-99/

[evilgoodwin]

I just don't see the major upside to the Galaxy Nexus. And now that Verizon (along with everyone else) is putting bloatware on it. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/is-the-galaxy-nexus-still-a-nexus/) It's just kind of disgraceful. More reason Motorola should have done it this time. Or atleast went back to HTC. I will miss out on high resolution though. Really could of dug that.

Anyways! I got a Galaxy S II for Tmobile. It was a good phone out the box but this Beast Rom I have running just made it perfection. I mean this phone is probably would I've always imagined my Android phone to be but now it actually is. Big screen, smooth, great camera, lots of memory, and storage space. TMO 4G still leaves alot to be desired, but it's actually as fast as my broadband. From a couple years ago. Still faster than what my Nexus One was cranking out. I haven't cross an issue yet. I imagine it'll happen sooner or later. <shrug>

I truly hope Cyanogen Mod 9 comes soon though. On XDA, the guys running both this and the other main roms argue like babies. It's like seeing how the meat is made. I try not to go there but when you need a update. <sigh>

Also with OnPlay out, Xperia Play is looking kind of cool. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/use-your-xperia-play-gamepad-on-the-onlive-service-with-onlive-helper/)

I finally have CM on my Epic 4G, but the bugs it still has are... ha.

95% of the time, it works great, but when the bugs happen.... NIGHTMARE TIME. The Wifi doesn't stay constant, it will keep ringing sometimes when I answer, but it's not the normal ringtone, and it will sometimes just restart. But it still works better than samsung stock rom. And after Samsung pretty much ignoring the Epic a month after release, I will probably not get another Samsung phone.

[Xerxes]

I heard their beta ICS rom is already out. It's progress.

[bone_matrix]

I just don't see the major upside to the Galaxy Nexus. And now that Verizon (along with everyone else) is putting bloatware on it. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/is-the-galaxy-nexus-still-a-nexus/) It's just kind of disgraceful. More reason Motorola should have done it this time. Or atleast went back to HTC. I will miss out on high resolution though. Really could of dug that.

Anyways! I got a Galaxy S II for Tmobile. It was a good phone out the box but this Beast Rom I have running just made it perfection. I mean this phone is probably would I've always imagined my Android phone to be but now it actually is. Big screen, smooth, great camera, lots of memory, and storage space. TMO 4G still leaves alot to be desired, but it's actually as fast as my broadband. From a couple years ago. Still faster than what my Nexus One was cranking out. I haven't cross an issue yet. I imagine it'll happen sooner or later. <shrug>

I truly hope Cyanogen Mod 9 comes soon though. On XDA, the guys running both this and the other main roms argue like babies. It's like seeing how the meat is made. I try not to go there but when you need a update. <sigh>

Also with OnPlay out, Xperia Play is looking kind of cool. (http://www.xda-developers.com/android/use-your-xperia-play-gamepad-on-the-onlive-service-with-onlive-helper/)

As you may have already read, I fracken love my S2 from Sprint. My downloads were faster just because the phone was so much better than the Hero with CM I was running.

I wished CM was on the Sprint S2, I'll have to wait till CM9 though. I'm also annoyed there doesn't seem to be a one click root for it either. I'm actually enjoying the touchwiz stock rom that is on it...to be honest and mocked.

[Xerxes]

Rooting was still super easy. I'm still using a modified Touch Wiz. I have downloaded another launcher though. ADW Launcher was like .10 the other day. I'm thinking I might give it a go when I'm ready to get deep in that ass and customize my UI.

[bone_matrix]

Rooting was still super easy. I'm still using a modified Touch Wiz. I have downloaded another launcher though. ADW Launcher was like .10 the other day. I'm thinking I might give it a go when I'm ready to get deep in that ass and customize my UI.

My problem is I really like the setup I have, and don't want to take an hour to redownload all of my apps. I did grab adw launcher ex from the sale also. Haven't used it yet, as I'm almost afraid to say this, I'm enjoying touchwiz.

I'm still looking at the root options for the epic touch. I agree though, when I'm ready to go balls deep, adw will help ;)

[Xerxes]

Titanium backup. I didn't know how to use it at first but once I did it made reloading easy. I did buy a new lock screen app.

I'll shoot you the links I used for rooting for when you are ready. But it was cake.

[bone_matrix]

Forgot about titanium backup, I'll have to grab it. Send the links when you have time, I'll dabble.

Thanks Xerxes

[Xerxes]

Unlockr had a couple of post that covered all versions. I guess the only thing that changes is the root file you flash.

Do this...

http://theunlockr.com/2011/12/01/how-to-root-the-samsung-galaxy-s-ii-all-versions/

Then this:

http://theunlockr.com/2011/12/01/how-to-load-a-custom-rom-on-the-samsung-galaxy-s-ii-all-versions

[bone_matrix]

That seemed the simplest I've seen so far. I'll definitely take a look when I get closer to doing it. I appreciate it Xerxes! Thank you!

On a side note, who is picking up the Galaxy Nexus?

[Cupelix]

That seemed the simplest I've seen so far. I'll definitely take a look when I get closer to doing it. I appreciate it Xerxes! Thank you!

On a side note, who is picking up the Galaxy Nexus?
I did! Hello, from my Nexus. So far I am impressed with 4.0, though there are some quirks. For example, for some reason, the keyboard doesn't always provide autocorrect. It is not doing it for this post. No suggestions either. Kind of annoying.

[Handmade.Mercury]

You HAVE to have the service. It isn't like the service gets cheaper if you buy your own phone. It isn't like the service gets cheaper if you pay month-to-month.

...

You can see why most people get phones on contract in the USA. Paying up-front for an expensive phone and then paying an expensive monthly service fee does not compute.

Not necessarily true. I'm looking to get off of my mom's family plan, and discovered that getting a monthly plan would be like $30 cheaper than a contract every month. I would have to buy a phone separately, which could set me back a few hundred dollars, but after 10 months, the monthly savings would pay for the phone.

This is, however, assuming you don't really need a lot of voice minutes. You can get 100 minutes and unlimited texting and data for like $30 a month.

[Slack3r78]

http://rootzwiki.com/_/articles/motorola-droid-4-specs-officially-confirmed-r223

yup, found my next phone.

[MalReynolds]

i dont get an upgrade for another year and some so god only knows what is gonna be out

[Crittias]

Updating my Nexus S to ICS right now. I'll post again after I have some time to try it out.

EDIT: Initial impressions: interesting startup screen. Now I've got a message that says, "Optimizing application x of X," and it's working through all my apps to...optimize them, I guess. :)

EDIT2: Smooth update. I'm going to stick with the default Launcher, because a) I'd like to see how ICS functions, and b) ICS has busted LauncherPro. :) Widgets and App management are intuitive. Nothing else really to report yet.

[Xerxes]

http://rootzwiki.com/_/articles/motorola-droid-4-specs-officially-confirmed-r223

yup, found my next phone.

I would say, why? Then I remembered you have a hard on for physical keyboards.

[Slack3r78]

I would say, why? Then I remembered you have a hard on for physical keyboards.

That plus the anti-liquid coating; I've fucked up my last two phones with minor water damage.

[Mike Kelehan]

I did! Hello, from my Nexus. So far I am impressed with 4.0, though there are some quirks. For example, for some reason, the keyboard doesn't always provide autocorrect. It is not doing it for this post. No suggestions either. Kind of annoying.

Have you dug into the settings? It's off by default, I think.

[Jackel]

That plus the anti-liquid coating; I've fucked up my last two phones with minor water damage.

Throw in the Gorilla glass and that Droid 4 is a winner. I'm really looking at getting this one myself since the Galaxy Nexus has been a disappointment.

[Mike Kelehan]

Throw in the Gorilla glass and that Droid 4 is a winner. I'm really looking at getting this one myself since the Galaxy Nexus has been a disappointment.

Guh? I've never heard anyone describe it as a "disappointment."

[Xerxes]

Anything makes this better than the RAZR?

[Slack3r78]

Anything makes this better than the RAZR?

It's essentially the RAZR + 5 row QWERTY and a slightly smaller (4.0" vs 4.3") screen.

[Xerxes]

Guh? I've never heard anyone describe it as a "disappointment."

I think I did about few posts up. :p

Aside from ICS it's rather bleh hardware wise. I don't know. When the One came out it was a step above all other android phones. It was THE flagship google phone. With the S and the Galaxy Nexus not so much. I'm just not seeing it being any better than what's already out there and in this case it's less than some of the other hardware out there.

Then Verizon held shit up so long, folks with a Galaxy S are getting ICS.

[Mike Kelehan]

I think I did about few posts up. :p

Aside from ICS it's rather bleh hardware wise. I don't know. When the One came out it was a step above all other android phones. It was THE flagship google phone. With the S and the Galaxy Nexus not so much. I'm just not seeing it being any better than what's already out there and in this case it's less than some of the other hardware out there.

Then Verizon held shit up so long, folks with a Galaxy S are getting ICS.

Fair enough.

Either way, I won't be getting it. I've still got my Nexus One, and although Google doesn't plan on putting ICS on it, the Cyanogenmod people have different plans. Time to finally root this thing.

[Xerxes]

Fair enough.

Either way, I won't be getting it. I've still got my Nexus One, and although Google doesn't plan on putting ICS on it, the Cyanogenmod people have different plans. Time to finally root this thing.

I heard there were technical limitations that might hinder that. Not sure. I upgraded just cause I wanted to anyways. <shrug>

I have my fingers crossed that CM9 will be ready next month.

[Jackel]

Guh? I've never heard anyone describe it as a "disappointment."

Sorry, I should have mentioned I went to the Verizon store and played with it. Also done a bunch of research on the hardware. For me personally its a disappointment.

[Dualshotty23]

I was not a fan of the galaxy nexus either. Hardware specs are a little on the meh side, and it still has the 4g issues for signal and bettery life. The extended battery only adding a few hundred mah is simply a waste of money in my eyes. I will stick with my thunderbolt which with the extended battery easily pulls two days.

[jpublic]

I was not a fan of the galaxy nexus either. Hardware specs are a little on the meh side, and it still has the 4g issues for signal and bettery life. The extended battery only adding a few hundred mah is simply a waste of money in my eyes. I will stick with my thunderbolt which with the extended battery easily pulls two days.

WHy do you say the specs are Meh? What would you recommend?

I'm looking at upgrading my phone soon, depending if I can convince my carrier they need to let me do it early (I have a early SGS i9000M with the bad GPS), and the two options I was considering were the Galazy S2 and the Galaxy Nexus.

I was thinking the latter just because of ICS.

[Xerxes]

WHy do you say the specs are Meh? What would you recommend?

I'm looking at upgrading my phone soon, depending if I can convince my carrier they need to let me do it early (I have a early SGS i9000M with the bad GPS), and the two options I was considering were the Galazy S2 and the Galaxy Nexus.

I was thinking the latter just because of ICS.

You know to me once S2 has ICS, it has a better camera. And there is still no word on the GSM variant. So far I'm loving this phone.

[Mike Kelehan]

My T-Mobile contract is just about up, and I called to see what sort of deal I could get if I don't need a new phone. $25/month for 500 minutes, unlimited data, unlimited texting. I will never get a subsidized phone again.

[J Arcane]

Jeebus. I was paying two and a half times that, and I was off contract. Gotta love those hidden "please don't leave us" offers. Makes it all the more obvious how jacked up the normal rates are.

[Mike Kelehan]

Jeebus. I was paying two and a half times that, and I was off contract. Gotta love those hidden "please don't leave us" offers. Makes it all the more obvious how jacked up the normal rates are.

I mean, it's real obvious that my individual usage costs them basically nothing. Of that $25, $24 is likely profit. And "free" phones are just about the biggest scam out there; you're paying for them in installments over two years at what works out to an unbelievable interest rate.

That being said, I really didn't expect to get a deal this good. I was expecting around $40.

[J Arcane]

I mean, it's real obvious that my individual usage costs them basically nothing. Of that $25, $24 is likely profit. And "free" phones are just about the biggest scam out there; you're paying for them in installments over two years at what works out to an unbelievable interest rate.

That being said, I really didn't expect to get a deal this good. I was expecting around $40.

If they'd offered me a deal like that I might still be with t-mobile, instead of just paying data on my iPad.

I'd still hate my phone, but hey, at east I wouldn't have to burn my data cap to make phone calls.

[Voodoo]

I was talking with a fellow Android geek today and we came out with a viable solution. We are pretty sure Google wouldn't do this but it would make the most sense...

Google should allow all partners access to the Android OS as it is being developed. BUT, if allowed access, the partner would agree to release that version of the OS being worked on to their current crop of phones & tablets operating at the current level of the Android OS. An example: Jelly Bean is announced to the public on Feb 1. On that day, all the partners that want access are given access to work on the core OS, open source style. A release date is set to June 1 and the agreement is that the partner must release their own equipment update within 30 days of that date or forfeit access and use of the OS.

I know its a pipe dream, but what's the world without those. :)

[muddi900]

SVN repositocalypse?

[J Arcane]

I was talking with a fellow Android geek today and we came out with a viable solution. We are pretty sure Google wouldn't do this but it would make the most sense...

Google should allow all partners access to the Android OS as it is being developed. BUT, if allowed access, the partner would agree to release that version of the OS being worked on to their current crop of phones & tablets operating at the current level of the Android OS. An example: Jelly Bean is announced to the public on Feb 1. On that day, all the partners that want access are given access to work on the core OS, open source style. A release date is set to June 1 and the agreement is that the partner must release their own equipment update within 30 days of that date or forfeit access and use of the OS.

I know its a pipe dream, but what's the world without those. :)

So, from not open, to even less open with draconian rules on code access?

Not exactly the dream, is it?

[JayVe]

Here are a couple of Android tablets with decent-looking gaming controls

capacitive screen
http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_113132_1_small.jpg (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/jxd-s7100-7-capacitive-android-2-2-tablet-game-console-w-camera-wifi-tf-cortex-a9-1ghz-8gb-113132#open full view)

Resistance Screen
http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_112403_7_small.jpg (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/android-2-2-7-0-lcd-resistance-touch-screen-game-consol-tablet-w-tf-wifi-camera-white-silver-112403)

Looks like it has an analog stick and decent set of gaming buttons. Quite small too!

http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_112403_9_small.jpg

[TrackZero]

WHy do you say the specs are Meh? What would you recommend?

I'm looking at upgrading my phone soon, depending if I can convince my carrier they need to let me do it early (I have a early SGS i9000M with the bad GPS), and the two options I was considering were the Galazy S2 and the Galaxy Nexus.

I was thinking the latter just because of ICS.

I just picked up a galaxy nexus. I <3 this phone. I haven't had a real battery issue, but for all I know some people spend their entire day watching youtube on their phones or something. My only beef, if I were to have one is that the external speaker could be a bit louder. But really, I use headphones 99% of the time anyways.

[Dualshotty23]

I just picked up a galaxy nexus. I <3 this phone. I haven't had a real battery issue, but for all I know some people spend their entire day watching youtube on their phones or something. My only beef, if I were to have one is that the external speaker could be a bit louder. But really, I use headphones 99% of the time anyways.

I am pretty jealous of my wifes nexus. The battery life is pretty good considering 4g and the extended battery was designed well.

[Crittias]

I'm just about to order my wife a GSM Galaxy Nexus. It's a shame Verizon's Gnex isn't quad-band. We need phones that'll work overseas.

[Crittias]

Just got my wife's phone yesterday (GSM Galaxy Nexus, not Verizon's version). A few first impressions:

It has an indicator light for missed calls, messages, etc. I like that. Haven't had one since my Cliq a few years ago.
The screen is GORGEOUS. Just absolutely stunning.
The phone is very snappy compared to what it's replacing (Galaxy S Vibrant) and my Nexus S.
Battery life is ridiculously good so far. Impossibly good, actually, so I'll probably be posting about it again when I get more realistic numbers. So far the phone's been on battery power for 20 hours and it's at 69%. That's on wifi, edge, and 3G, a few phone calls, a few emails, a few app downloads, and a bit of browsing. So overall very light usage, but still, VERY good battery life.

I'll post more details once we've had some more time to play with it. We're also switching over from TMo to AT&T today or tomorrow, so it'll be interesting to see if a network switch affects performance (if anything, I expect performance to improve, due to better AT&T coverage in our area).

[Crittias]

So, an update on battery life. Keep in mind this is under very light usage, but still:

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nYZHx8sDCzk/TyYUV1e07EI/AAAAAAAAB-8/lh0rzYaLzbk/s400/GalNexBatteryUse.jpg

I'll take 58 hours of uptime and 48% battery life any day of the week.

[Dualshotty23]

I have my upgrade coming up and I am hoping (i know, a long shot) motorola will finally start to keep their unlocked bootloader promise. if so that droid 4 shall be mine, if not i will most likely save my upgrade.

[Mashidar]

I have an upgrade coming up this week, I'm planning on either the Motorola Droid Bionic, or the Motorola Droid Razer that just came out. Just really depends I suppose on what the store has and how I feel about it.

[TrackZero]

So, an update on battery life. Keep in mind this is under very light usage, but still:

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nYZHx8sDCzk/TyYUV1e07EI/AAAAAAAAB-8/lh0rzYaLzbk/s400/GalNexBatteryUse.jpg

I'll take 58 hours of uptime and 48% battery life any day of the week.

Yeah, I suspect a lot of the reviews for the Galaxy Nexus that talk about battery issues were done on the Verizon version. I've been using my GSM one for weeks without a problem.

[Crittias]

Yeah, I suspect a lot of the reviews for the Galaxy Nexus that talk about battery issues were done on the Verizon version. I've been using my GSM one for weeks without a problem.I wonder if it's LTE that kills Verizon's Gnex battery, or the CDMA network as a whole?

[TrackZero]

I wonder if it's LTE that kills Verizon's Gnex battery, or the CDMA network as a whole?

Hard to tell (which is silly, since reviewers bringing it up could have simply posted the same type of screenshot you did).

[Dualshotty23]

My wifes is on Verizon and she gets about 27 hours with moderate use. On a day when she works and only has her phone for about 6 hours she can get 35. Low brightness, no live wallpaper and only using wifi for data.

Sent from my HTC ThunderBolt using Tapatalk

[Crittias]

My wifes is on Verizon and she gets about 27 hours with moderate use. On a day when she works and only has her phone for about 6 hours she can get 35. Low brightness, no live wallpaper and only using wifi for data.

Sent from my HTC ThunderBolt using Tapatalk27 to 35 is still pretty impressive for a modern smartphone with a big honkin' screen. I'm impressed by this latest hardware from Google.

[Dualshotty23]

Oh I agree I just know I am going to miss my thunderbolt life when I get a new phone I can pull three days on average, two if I use Netflix for a few hours.

Sent from my HTC ThunderBolt using Tapatalk

[BabyJesus]

I have an upgrade coming up this week, I'm planning on either the Motorola Droid Bionic, or the Motorola Droid Razer that just came out. Just really depends I suppose on what the store has and how I feel about it.

I currently have a Razr and its by far the best android phone I have had(and I have had tons, Eris, Thunderbolt, Droid X, X2, Breakout, Droid 2, more). I'd stay away from the bionic heard really bad things. If you want superb battery life for a verizon LTE phone you may want to look at the Razr Maxx. Same exact phone as the Razr but a bit thicker due to a massive 3300 battery.

[Mashidar]

I currently have a Razr and its by far the best android phone I have had(and I have had tons, Eris, Thunderbolt, Droid X, X2, Breakout, Droid 2, more). I'd stay away from the bionic heard really bad things. If you want superb battery life for a verizon LTE phone you may want to look at the Razr Maxx. Same exact phone as the Razr but a bit thicker due to a massive 3300 battery.

Price is the issue really, don't know if I want to throw down the 300 for the razr maxx, vs the current 150 for the bionic. What's the issue with the bionic? Most places gave it a great review for the phone and it's features.

[Xerxes]

Google hurt my soul by not having the galaxy nexus on TMO first.

[Slack3r78]

You can get VZW phones cheaper from Amazon, just fyi.

[Crittias]

Google hurt my soul by not having the galaxy nexus on TMO first.Well, as you've pointed out, the Galaxy S2 is extremely similar hardware, and in many cases better (for example, the camera). I'm just a big fan of the pure Google phone with the newest stock Android OS.

[BabyJesus]

Price is the issue really, don't know if I want to throw down the 300 for the razr maxx, vs the current 150 for the bionic. What's the issue with the bionic? Most places gave it a great review for the phone and it's features.

Heard about some signal issues, terrible data drops with the bionic.

I think amazon wireless is running the maxx for $229 for upgraders, $199 for new account.

[Xerxes]

I'm just a big fan of the pure Google phone with the newest stock Android OS.

I am too, and I don't know. I just really had hoped the bootleg Rom or official update would be out by now. I really love my phone but the brats on xda squabble like kids over who has the better rom and all kinds of petty shit.

So here I am, waiting for Cyanogen or Samsung. I'm they both said Q1 so I got a few more months at least.

[Dualshotty23]

I am too, and I don't know. I just really had hoped the bootleg Rom or official update would be out by now. I really love my phone but the brats on xda squabble like kids over who has the better rom and all kinds of petty shit.

So here I am, waiting for Cyanogen or Samsung. I'm they both said Q1 so I got a few more months at least.

try rootzwiki. I am running liquid smooth which has ics-esque features and is probably the best ROM I have run.

Sent from my HTC ThunderBolt using Tapatalk

[Xerxes]

Well the Rom I'm using now has my phone running better than I could have ever imagined a phone running. I guess I'm a little justice of the true ICS folks. The same rom makes are on rootzwiki. So the same crybaby type stuff. <shrug>

I got the rom so I guess it doesn't matter. But I'd be damn near afraid to ask a question cause of the trolling. Refuse to feed em.

[Crittias]

I have my upgrade coming up and I am hoping (i know, a long shot) motorola will finally start to keep their unlocked bootloader promise. if so that droid 4 shall be mine, if not i will most likely save my upgrade.Motorola Announces RAZR XT910 Developer Edition with Unlocked Bootloader (http://www.anandtech.com/show/5480/motorola-announces-razr-xt910-developer-edition-with-unlocked-bootloader). Thought it might interest you.

[PathMaster]

My Droid X has been running slow as hell lately. I know its bad when I click a phone number to call and may have to wait a minute or so for it to actually dial... Phone is in good condition I think, but I may just wipe and root it.

[Dualshotty23]

Motorola Announces RAZR XT910 Developer Edition with Unlocked Bootloader (http://www.anandtech.com/show/5480/motorola-announces-razr-xt910-developer-edition-with-unlocked-bootloader). Thought it might interest you.

Thanks, they had said they would unlock the bionic, still waiting, so this is decent news but no warranty is disappointing. We will see how the d4 fares.

Sent from my HTC ThunderBolt using Tapatalk

[benson]

I am torn between picking up a Galaxy Note or GSM Galaxy Nexus. I am on AT&T with an iPhone 4s currently. The Note is huge and awesome, the Nexus has pure ICS. The Note is supposed to get ICS in March, but it'll have TouchWiz on it. Ah, decisions.

[Crittias]

I am torn between picking up a Galaxy Note or GSM Galaxy Nexus. I am on AT&T with an iPhone 4s currently. The Note is huge and awesome, the Nexus has pure ICS. The Note is supposed to get ICS in March, but it'll have TouchWiz on it. Ah, decisions.The key word there is supposed to get it in March. I would never bet on a producer or carrier to deliver on OS promises.

Oh, and the Galaxy Nexus is pretty darn huge.

[Xerxes]

If those were the choice, I'd probably grab a Note. Even after my belly aching about not having ICS yet.

[J Arcane]

So, what's the market like for 3G enabled tablets right now? Any good convertible type dealies? I saw a kid with a neat looking touch screen Android laptop today.

I am so pissed at iTunes account system right now I'm seriously considering a switch if they don't fucking fix it goddamn yesterday.

[benson]

The key word there is supposed to get it in March. I would never bet on a producer or carrier to deliver on OS promises.

Oh, and the Galaxy Nexus is pretty darn huge.

That is my thought too.

Due to that and the sheer size of the Note, I am leaning towards the Nexus. Also, the Note is a bit more expensive right now (talking about international versions).

[Xerxes]

Funny thing about size. When i got my Galaxy II, I thought it was too big. Having seen the Note though, I could totally do it. Although they would totally spoil me when folks stop making huge ass phones and I have to lose that extra (nearly) inch.

[Slack3r78]

http://i.imgur.com/JcjIe.jpg

Xerxes representin' the Dell Streak.

[J Arcane]

That thing is fuckhuge.

[Xerxes]

I'm huge. And the resolution on the Streak ain't as nice as the Note.

[benson]

So I went with the Galaxy Nexus. Price and ICS won out. I'll get it next week.

[Serapth]

Confirmed today Rogers is getting the Lumia 900, so unless a miracle happens, bye bye Android, my next phone is Windows Phone I think.

[benson]

I have an unlocked Samsung Focus. Windows Phone is pretty sweet. Lack of apps sucks, but most everything you need is there. I like how social networking is integrated, and I like the interface.

I guess my opinion of the 3 big phone OS's is if you want easy, pretty, and any app you can think of, go iOS. If you want killer hardware, customizability, and many apps, go android. If you want your phone OS pretty, slick, and a good compromise between the other two, though with a much smaller number of apps, go Windows Phone.

[Crittias]

So I went with the Galaxy Nexus. Price and ICS won out. I'll get it next week.I think you'll be happy with your decision.

[JayVe]

The Galaxy Note is popular here in India. I see 2-3 in the wild every day. I love the stylus!

-from webOS

[Mashidar]

So did my upgrade today and decided on the Droid Razr Maxx. Very happy with the phone so far, and expect to give the battery life a workout.

[Handmade.Mercury]

Any of you guys have old 4G Android phones for sale?

[Crittias]

I'm selling my T-Mobile Nexus S. Lightly used, still works great. Only selling it because we switched to AT&T.

It's not 4G, though.

[Handmade.Mercury]

I'd preferably want 4G, and also it needs to work on Verizon. Anyone know if you replace your phone during a contract period whether they'll still give you an upgrade discount?

[BabyJesus]

I'd preferably want 4G, and also it needs to work on Verizon. Anyone know if you replace your phone during a contract period whether they'll still give you an upgrade discount?

Depends on how far you are into your contract usually. You can call and ask, although they are getting tighter with it from what I have seen.

[Jackel]

How much you looking to spend. I have a thunderbolt that I wouldn't mind parting with. Yes, replacing your phone as long as you don't buy it from them, they don't care.

[Crittias]

New Android 4.0.3 ROM found for Galaxy S II (I9100XXLPB) (http://www.androidguys.com/2012/02/03/new-android-4-0-3-rom-found-for-galaxy-s-ii-i9100xxlpb/)

[jpublic]

God I can't wait until August and I can update my phone. Of course, the Galaxy SIII or whatever will be out by then, but but until then I'm stuck with my SGS feeling jealous.

[diablopath]

I decided to pick up a Samsung Galaxy S II yesterday. I like the phone overall, except for a few things.

1. My contacts. What the fuck is wrong with this shit? Like, if I hit my "Phone" button on the main screen, it takes me to a list with maybe 20 names on it. It is also listing all my gmail contacts (which I *don't* want it to do) and not listing all of my Facebook contacts (which I DO want it to do). I put a "All contacts with phone numbers" option on the main page, which seams to be a collection of my Facebook friends, but it's so annoying because I can't type in "T" to call "Tyler", for instance. I have to scroll down. It's a pain.

2. The fucking keyboard. Why the hell isn't the comma as accessible as the period? It frustrates me.

Anybody have an idea how to fix these things?

Also...which apps should I be looking for? I got Kakaotalk, which is super cool to use to talk to my international friends. It's really good to be able to text them again without having to deal with y'know, paying for texting them.

[Xerxes]

I put swiftkey x on here and never looked back.

[diablopath]

A quick look into that and people seem to be bitching about its autocorrect. Does that prevent me from making hilarious typos?

[Xerxes]

Autocorrect sucks as much as it is helpful. On any system.

[Crittias]

I'm a fan of the Swype keyboard, myself.

[Spectre-7]

I rather like Thumb Keyboard (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.beansoft.keyboardplus&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5iZ WFuc29mdC5rZXlib2FyZHBsdXMiXQ..).

[evilgoodwin]

A quick look into that and people seem to be bitching about its autocorrect. Does that prevent me from making hilarious typos?

I turned off Auto-correct, so I can use the predictive text, but if I hit space, it doesn't just guess on what I was trying to spell.

[Slack3r78]

I use FlexT9 (https://market.android.com/details?id=com.nuance.flext9.input&hl=en). I've tried every other popular option out there at some point and I generally end up hating them. Flex I don't mind, though.

[Suave Peanut]

1. My contacts. What the fuck is wrong with this shit? Like, if I hit my "Phone" button on the main screen, it takes me to a list with maybe 20 names on it. It is also listing all my gmail contacts (which I *don't* want it to do) and not listing all of my Facebook contacts (which I DO want it to do). I put a "All contacts with phone numbers" option on the main page, which seams to be a collection of my Facebook friends, but it's so annoying because I can't type in "T" to call "Tyler", for instance. I have to scroll down. It's a pain.

When you're looking at your contacts, hit the menu key and click "Accounts." From there, click on your Google account and uncheck Contacts. Then, on your Facebook account, check Contacts. Then report back. Also double-check that you're looking at the Contacts pane and not the Favorites pane.

My experience is based on the first Galaxy S and may not apply but hopefully so.

[diablopath]

When you're looking at your contacts, hit the menu key and click "Accounts." From there, click on your Google account and uncheck Contacts. Then, on your Facebook account, check Contacts. Then report back. Also double-check that you're looking at the Contacts pane and not the Favorites pane.

My experience is based on the first Galaxy S and may not apply but hopefully so.

Yeah I've done all of that. It's super weird. I might just factory reset it or something, because it is just one of those minor things that bothers me.

[PathMaster]

I had the same issue. The phone imported all contacts from Facebook. Annoying. I can't remember how I fixed it, but there is a way.

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk

[Banacek]

Heads up if you are an Android and Verizon user:

http://androidcommunity.com/google-ends-full-support-for-cdma-devices-including-verizons-galaxy-nexus-20120203/

Disturbing news from the official Android developer website: it appears that nearly all reference to CDMA phones and tablets has disappeared from the official documentation. This includes Android source code and factory ROMs for Verizon’s CDMA version of the Galaxy Nexus and Motorola XOOM, as well as the Nexus S 4G. What this implies (and only implies) is that Google is no longer providing official updates for the removed devices, as is generally expected of “developer” hardware. The GSM Nexus S and WiFi-only Motorola XOOM are still present, as are the two initial images for the Galaxy Nexus CDMA/LTE, though these are marked as “archived, for reference only”.

[PathMaster]

I am not quite sure what that means for the everyday user though?

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk

[Banacek]

I am not quite sure what that means for the everyday user though?

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk

I think it's a falling out between Verizon and Google over Google wallet. Basically it's going to be up to Verizon to make Android upgrades from now on. If you have a phone already you should be fine, but if I wanted to buy a new Android phone I wouldn't recommend using Verizon as your carrier, at least until this blows over.

[Jackel]

Actually, it isn't a big deal. (https://groups.google.com/forum/?fromgroups#!topic/android-contrib/phz3S5ZdveU)

[PathMaster]

Sounds like some carriers are trying to find another way to lock down their phones?

Am I right in this assumption?

[J Arcane]

Sounds like some carriers are trying to find another way to lock down their phones?

Am I right in this assumption?
That's what it sounds like to me. What a fucking scummy move.

I fucking hate cell companies.

[jpublic]

Arcane, for your desire to call Tyler:

1) Go to the dialpad instead of your contacts.
2) Type in a 8. It should bring up a pulldown of all the possible things that it thinks you might want, in the following order:

-people whose contacts start with T, then U, then V
-phone numbers that start with 8

3) Then just select the one you want.

Might not be as easy, but when calling my wife or my Dad, since they're the only ones in their letter range (2/abc and 3/def) it's quick for me.

Also, in 2.3 they fixed the Google autodialer app. It works wonders for me.

[diablopath]

Autocorrect sucks as much as it is helpful. On any system.

I went ahead and got the app you suggested. This autocorrect is absolutely atrocious. I use the "o.o" face a lot. It's just my habit and I don't want to let it go.

Swiftkey X, you son of a bitch.

[Xerxes]

I went ahead and got the app you suggested. This autocorrect is absolutely atrocious. I use the "o.o" face a lot. It's just my habit and I don't want to let it go.

Swiftkey X, you son of a bitch.

O_o <- I use that alot and after a few times it seems ok with it as soon as I go for it. :confused:

[PathMaster]

Use it a few more times, then have Swiftkey rescan all of your texting. That should help some.

Swiftkey X or Swype or my favorites. I use Swiftkey X to great affect.

[diablopath]

I pulled my head out of my ass and I'm taking the Samsung Galaxy S II back. While it's by far the neatest phone I've ever owned, I paid $500 for it. That's a lot of money for something like a phone.

So I ordered a cheaper and older LG Quantum, with the familiar Windows Phone 7 OS, and I'll be taking my phone back on Wednesday.

It was fun while it lasted, though.

[MagGnome]

Does anyone else have issues with the app updating system? I personally think it is a huge pain in the ass, and it doesn't even work sometimes! The market will sit there downloading an update, install it, and then tell me that it was "Unsuccessful". What the hell is that? To me that shows how poorly designed parts of the Android OS are. Simply ridiculous. There are so many little annoyances with this phone that really grind my gears.

Edit - Sorry, I don't mean to use so much vitriol. I just spent 15+ minutes trying to update a dozen or so apps, and I had to restart some of them three times. Not fun in the least.

[MagGnome]

I pulled my head out of my ass and I'm taking the Samsung Galaxy S II back. While it's by far the neatest phone I've ever owned, I paid $500 for it. That's a lot of money for something like a phone.

So I ordered a cheaper and older LG Quantum, with the familiar Windows Phone 7 OS, and I'll be taking my phone back on Wednesday.

It was fun while it lasted, though.

You made the right choice. I paid $500 for my Galaxy S about 13 months ago, and I've been regretting it ever since. I wish I could go back in time and slap myself in the face.


My T-Mobile contract is just about up, and I called to see what sort of deal I could get if I don't need a new phone. $25/month for 500 minutes, unlimited data, unlimited texting. I will never get a subsidized phone again.

Seriously? I'm off-contract and I pay $67 a month for that exact plan, which includes taxes and fees. Good grief!

[TheEpicOfTyler]

Does anyone else have issues with the app updating system? I personally think it is a huge pain in the ass, and it doesn't even work sometimes! The market will sit there downloading an update, install it, and then tell me that it was "Unsuccessful". What the hell is that? To me that shows how poorly designed parts of the Android OS are. Simply ridiculous. There are so many little annoyances with this phone that really grind my gears.

Edit - Sorry, I don't mean to use so much vitriol. I just spent 15+ minutes trying to update a dozen or so apps, and I had to restart some of them three times. Not fun in the least.

It's a mess on my phone. The same things happen to me. I think it has something to do with trying to update 15 apps at once. I'd be nice if apps would just auto-update when you opened them or something.

[MagGnome]

It's a mess on my phone. The same things happen to me. I think it has something to do with trying to update 15 apps at once. I'd be nice if apps would just auto-update when you opened them or something.

Even when updating one or two at a time they sometimes fail. Angry Birds seems to be the worst offender, but it's certainly not the only one. I should just go ahead and uninstall AB anyway, as I haven't played it in ages.

The app updating system could use a lot of improvement. Perhaps it's better in later OS versions. I sure hope they improve it.

[J Arcane]

This is one of the reasons why I'd like to make sure any future tablet is Ice Cream Sandwich. What I'm hearing in reviews and such is that as long as the hardware's good, ICS is the best Android yet.

[Xerxes]

O_o I hadn't used my Transformer in about two months. Was using my Touchad a lot. I had like a system update and 43 app updates. Ate it up like a champ on wifi. I think there only 3 apps I needed to update manually. I was back using it less than 20 minutes with the system update taking most of the time. I'm inclined to ask how good your connection is.

My phone as well has no issue with updates aside from Google Search. But that's the fault of the shit head mod makers. They changed like the app device signature or some shit. I'm about to flash a new Rom tonight which seems to be getting some good comments.

Also, wasn't the Galaxy S kind of a shit sandwich.

[PathMaster]

Was the issue the regular App Market, or the Amazon one? Regular App market works great for me. Amazon one one the other hand can be hinky for me. Updating Apps can and will install many times.

[MagGnome]

O_o I hadn't used my Transformer in about two months. Was using my Touchad a lot. I had like a system update and 43 app updates. Ate it up like a champ on wifi. I think there only 3 apps I needed to update manually. I was back using it less than 20 minutes with the system update taking most of the time. I'm inclined to ask how good your connection is.

It happens whether I'm using 3G or WiFi. The connection doesn't seem to matter much. A few apps seem to have this issue more often than not, including the aforementioned Angry Birds, which I finally just uninstalled. Still, that wasn't the only culprit.

Also, wasn't the Galaxy S kind of a shit sandwich.

Pretty much. I was told repeatedly that it was one of the best phones on the market at the time. I really wish I had gone with something else instead. The battery life is pretty poor, the GPS has issues, and the thing locks up on me like clockwork. Some of that might be my phone in particular (I could just have a dud), but my friends that have the Galaxy S have had several issues as well. It's kind of a shiny turd, IMHO.


Was the issue the regular App Market, or the Amazon one? Regular App market works great for me. Amazon one one the other hand can be hinky for me. Updating Apps can and will install many times.

I was referring to the regular app market.

The Amazon App market has its own issues, on both my Galaxy and my Kindle Fire. It regularly notifies me that I have "New Apps Available". I then open the store and it wants to install some junk I never asked for, including ESPN and Pandora. Somehow it thinks I "bought" these apps, so they always show up in my account and it always reminds me that I should download them, on both my Galaxy and Fire. I don't know how to get those apps disconnected from my account. Also, it tries to update apps that don't need to be updated, especially Words with Friends. It's rather bizarre, to be honest, and I know this isn't specific to my phone since it does the same thing on my Fire. Every day I'm remind that I have "New Apps Available" and every day it's ESPN and Pandora. Go away! -_-

[Xerxes]

Which is funny. On paper the Nexus S is the same phone for the most part but everyone praises that one for the most part.

[JayVe]

Does anyone else have issues with the app updating system? I personally think it is a huge pain in the ass, and it doesn't even work sometimes! The market will sit there downloading an update, install it, and then tell me that it was "Unsuccessful". What the hell is that? To me that shows how poorly designed parts of the Android OS are. Simply ridiculous. There are so many little annoyances with this phone that really grind my gears.
Heh. I still love webOS. Updates are automatic and seamless. And yes, of the hundreds of apps I have installed, people still update them despite the rumors of the OS being 'dead'. :)

I had to go back to my android backup phone for a week when I moved here to India and the whole damn thing is a janky mess.

[Slack3r78]

Which version of Android is your phone running Mags? I can't say I can really recall seeing that any time recently on my phone. The ICS ROM I've been running has been fantastic about app updates, actually.

[MagGnome]

2.1-update 1. I think that's Eclair?

I should just bite the bullet and install a custom ROM on the phone. I'm just afraid I'll screw it up.

[J Arcane]

Ugh. No wonder it's shit. 2.1 was awful. I had update problems with that too.

[MagGnome]

Ugh. No wonder it's shit. 2.1 was awful. I had update problems with that too.

Unfortunately that's the last version that Samsung/T-Mobile (not sure who exactly is responsible) released for me.

I can't even use Samsung Kies anymore because it says that my version of Android is not supported. Thanks a lot, Samsung! :mad:

Yeah, cracking the thing sounds like a better and better idea every day. What's the easiest/best way to go about this?

[Xerxes]

<facepalm>


How To: Root Your Android Phone (SuperOneClick Method) (http://theunlockr.com/2010/10/11/how-to-root-your-android-phone-superoneclick-method)
How To: Load a Custom ROM on Your Android Phone (After Any One Click Root Methods) (http://theunlockr.com/2010/10/12/how-to-load-a-custom-rom-on-your-android-phone-after-any-one-click-root-methods/)

[Slack3r78]

2.1-update 1. I think that's Eclair?

I should just bite the bullet and install a custom ROM on the phone. I'm just afraid I'll screw it up.

Oh, yeah. The market's received pretty major updates for... updating since then. That could explain some of your issues.

[Deimos]

The Galaxy S (Vibrant) has been a good phone for me. Sure the battery is kind of shit now but it's old and really just needs to be replaced. The GPS is shit though. I will never buy a new phone without getting to test the GPS beforehand. Having so much built in memory for apps has been great. More Android phones need to include 16gb of internal memory.

Mags I'm with you on market fails though. Some days I'll wake up and have 10 updates available. I'll hit update all then go take my morning shower. Some days it will be 50/50 with successful/failed updates. Wifi/3g... doesn't really matter.

Oh and you should be on 2.2 not 2.1.

T-Mo needs to get a ICS phone soon. I'm just about ready for an upgrade.

[Felonous]

Where would one get a unlocked Samsung Galaxy Nexus?

[J Arcane]

Where would one get a unlocked Samsung Galaxy Nexus?
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Nexus-Unlocked-Phone-U-S-Warranty/dp/B004USPRM4

eBay or Amazon are generally the cheapest options IME. There are other online wireless stores that specialize in unlocked phones but they tend to be ludicrously expensive international models.

[Crittias]

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Nexus-Unlocked-Phone-U-S-Warranty/dp/B004USPRM4That's a Nexus S...I think you meant this: http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-I9250-Galaxy-Nexus-Unlocked/dp/B005ZEF01A/

Here's where I bought mine: https://negrielectronics.com/samsung-i9250-google-galaxy-nexus-black-unlocked.html

Good reputation, good price.

[J Arcane]

Derp. I just linked the first thing that came up. Shows what I get.

[Zecon]

Right now I'm trying to decide between the bionic or an HTC trophy. I have a while until my next upgrade so I'm picking something that I can find around the $200 mark and I'm currently tied to Verizon.
Im using a Gen 1 Droid right now and I want something with a bit more power to it. I really like the windows 7 interface but I'm also warming up to android a bit more.
Any suggestions?

[Slack3r78]

Droid RAZR or wait a week and get the Droid 4 if you want a keyboard. The D4 is officially launching at $200 and you should be able to get either for less from Amazon wireless.

Amazon has had the GalaxyNexus for $99 recently as well.

[Zecon]

Cool I'll look into that one, thanks.

[J Arcane]

So, does anyone here have a Transformer Prime?

How is the GPS? I've heard some stuff suggesting its bad, real bad, so bad that Asus removed the feature from its specs.

Does it even have gps? The person writing that could've been an idiot.

[Spectre-7]

My mom's Transformer Prime should be coming in Friday, and I'm planning to put it through its paces a bit. I'll get back to you on that.

[J Arcane]

I did find an article confirming that the metal case apparently does cause gps problems, however there was apparently an update last month that was supposed to improve things.

Results are mixed as to whether it worked.

[PathMaster]

The Amazon App market has its own issues, on both my Galaxy and my Kindle Fire. It regularly notifies me that I have "New Apps Available". I then open the store and it wants to install some junk I never asked for, including ESPN and Pandora. Somehow it thinks I "bought" these apps, so they always show up in my account and it always reminds me that I should download them, on both my Galaxy and Fire. I don't know how to get those apps disconnected from my account. Also, it tries to update apps that don't need to be updated, especially Words with Friends. It's rather bizarre, to be honest, and I know this isn't specific to my phone since it does the same thing on my Fire. Every day I'm remind that I have "New Apps Available" and every day it's ESPN and Pandora. Go away! -_-

Log into Amazon, and you can manage your apps just like your Kindle items. I wish you could deactivate items or just not have them show up on your device, but you basically can only delete them.

[cawblen]

So, does anyone here have a Transformer Prime?

How is the GPS? I've heard some stuff suggesting its bad, real bad, so bad that Asus removed the feature from its specs.

Does it even have gps? The person writing that could've been an idiot.

Bought one for the girlfriend. The GPS seems fine to me. I found that it has very weak wifi connectivity and that the software is not as fluid once upgraded to IceCreamSandwich. Oh, and the browser crashes often. I've tested the wifi alongside my laptop and my Galaxy Nexus and it performs poorly. I'm planning to having it exchanged for a new one to see if it's just that particular model. Problem is, Best Buy does not have the product in stock where i am so now i have to decide whether to suck it up and keep it or return it and start hunting for another Transformer Prime (took me almost 2 months to get my hands on this one).

Let me say one thing though, when it works, it REALLY works. Love the hardware, love ICS.

[Xerxes]

Asus has been updating the first transform steadily. So it's supported to some degree and hopefully they help iron those kinks out.

[J Arcane]

Well, I bought one.

Amazon got some used ones in the warehouse, so I grabbed a 32GB Transformer Prime on my new Amazon card for $550. It has a 30-day return policy, and no interest for 6 months, which gives me two stages to bail and recoup my losses if it turns out I hate it.

If I don't though, then it's selling of iPad 2 time, and using the proceeds from that to buy MiFi and the keyboard dock.

Sick of this shit. Apple can keep the damn 40 bucks, I'm just burnt on the damn thing. I'll miss the app selection, but Apple has done a sterling job reminding me how tenuous that app connection is. If my Android gets banned from Market, there's still other ways to get apps. Get booted from iTunes though, and you've basically got a paperweight unless you jailbreak, which you don't want to do, because you need iTunes access if the jailbreak fails and you want to restore your backup. Fucking iTunes DRM means that without iTunes, all your fucking apps are worthless until the end of time. It's like if a Steam ban meant you could no longer install games on your PC.

So at this point? I just look at my iPad and get angry. Every time I flip through Flipboard and see all the TouchArcade and Padvance posts I just get pissed about this whole fiasco, and after three months of the iPad being my sole device, I'm a little fucking sick of how goddamn buggy iOS 5 is too, and growing to hate typing on the touchscreen even.

[muddi900]

Man at this point, if I want an affordable Laptop, I have to buy a tablet. Which is wrong!

[J Arcane]

Man at this point, if I want an affordable Laptop, I have to buy a tablet. Which is wrong!
I dunno. By the time I finish paying for the keyboard dock I'll have spent $800 on this Transformer Prime.

$800 buys a pretty darn good laptop. But I can't take my $800 laptop apart and use it's touchscreen as a tablet when I want to surf from my bed or on the bus.

[MagGnome]

Log into Amazon, and you can manage your apps just like your Kindle items. I wish you could deactivate items or just not have them show up on your device, but you basically can only delete them.

I will be doing this today. Thanks!

Edit - It worked, hooray! That was ridiculously easy. :o

[PathMaster]

I will be doing this today. Thanks!

Edit - It worked, hooray! That was ridiculously easy. :o

Yea, very much so, but a not easy to find out for me either. Figured you could do it from the App, but no. And again, I would like some better options on there, but I am out of luck at the moment I guess.

[MagGnome]

The options could definitely be improved. There are some apps that I don't want installed, but I don't want them deleted from my account either. Where's the "Leave me alone, I'm not an idiot!" option?

[PathMaster]

The options could definitely be improved. There are some apps that I don't want installed, but I don't want them deleted from my account either. Where's the "Leave me alone, I'm not an idiot!" option?

Exactly. Far better explanation that I could provide. I want to keep my Charlie Brown and Rudolph Apps available, but I really do not want to see them until next late fall.

[MagGnome]

Exactly. Far better explanation that I could provide. I want to keep my Charlie Brown and Rudolph Apps available, but I really do not want to see them until next late fall.

It's rather bizarre that they constantly remind you that you have apps that are not installed. They don't do that with books or anything else, just apps. Hopefully it will get fixed soon.

[J Arcane]

Well, it has arrived! I'm now in possessing of a sweet gray Transformer Prime 32GB.

Initial impressions so far:

The display is gorgeous. Super bright, great colors, great viewing angle, just fantastic.
It's hella light. I think it's actually lighter than my iPad 2. Maybe it's just the form factor, but it definitely feels lighter, and I think it's slightly thinner.
The charge cord being proprietary sucks, but at least it's longer than the iPad's.
The battery went from 70% out of the box, to 100% in about an hour and a half. Pretty good.
It's Android alright. It's smooth as butter most of the time, but it still gets sluggish if there's too much going on at once, and shit can be confusing at times. The touch only buttons are going to take a bit of getting used to.
The power button is tiny as hell, and hard to press, and it's the only thing that will wake up the screen, which is kinda lame.
The Wifi and the GPS do suck as advertised. The GPS cannot get a signal indoors at all, and the WiFi seems noticeably slower and weaker signal than my iPad 2. Kind of a bummer there.
The default ASUS keyboard is fuckawful. The default Android one is better, but almost unusable in landscape mode. Need to get a split keyboard I think. Also, everything's in different places, so that'll take getting used to.
Steam is better on Android. It has more features, and because of how Android handles phone apps, it uses the full screen properly, if inefficiently. It is a bit slow, however.
Google+ app is exactly the same as the iOS one, which means it sucks. But, full Google+ site works better in Chrome Beta than Safari where it's unusable.
Chrome Beta is pretty sweet, but I want my bookmarks bar! How do I get one?
The email situation is confusing. There are two email apps, one exclusively for Gmail accounts, and one generic Email program for everything else. This is confusing. Also, the Email app is better than the Gmail app, but dumb about handling Google domain accounts like my Immortal Machines email. I'm gonna have to fiddle with manual settings if I wanna use it for all my accounts, and that's annoying.
I haven't played any games on it yet. I downloaded a few RPGs though, will do more later. Also need to test out the Netflix app. I did find in the store that the Youtube app was hella gorgeous quality.

[Slack3r78]

Also, the Email app is better than the Gmail app

I think you're the first person I've ever heard say that.

(Though I don't particularly care for the swipe between messages mechanic in the new Gmail app. I prefer next/previous buttons).

[J Arcane]

I preferred the way it organized my folder list. It kept the clutter more clearly out of the way.

Though oddly, now the Gmail app is doing things differently all of a sudden so its not so bad.

Yay Android I guess.

Some other thoughts:

The Netflix app is atrocious. Its slow as balls and it doesn't multitask properly.

Earlier, the wifi completely stopped working and the tablet had to be rebooted to correct the problem. Also, the signal is still pretty awful, never going above two bars ever and frequently at 1.

Chrome for Android has excellent rendering and speed but accessing bookmarks is a pain. I want my damn bookmark bar dammit. Might switch back to Browser instead for better access and Flash.

Thumb Keyboard is good but man ate some of the keys in weird dumb places, like the comma being on the numbers page.

It's a damn good thing that Thumb Keyboard has arrow keys because cursor navigation is a pain otherwise.

Holy shit there's a lot of emulators. There's even working dosbox now apparently. It makes me really want the keyboard dock now.

The lack of system level music controls sucks, and makes YouTube absolutely useless for music because it does not multitask sound, just goes quiet instantly if you switch apps just like iPad does but without iPad's ability to start it back up again from outside the app.

[Slack3r78]

Amazon Wireless has the Droid 4 for $99.

And double data plans now through the end of the month.

I'm really having to wrestle with whether I can handle going back to Gingerbread from ICS for a couple of months til Moto pushes an update.

If it weren't for the stupid locked bootloader, I'd pull the trigger without thought.

[J Arcane]

Typical Android morning so far. Bringing back bad old memories. Tablet makes sound, can't remember which notification sound goes with which app, have to look but have annoying experience trying to get at and activate the tiny little power button because there's no other way to wake the device and the screen doesn't even come on for notifications.

It turns out I have some Google+ replies and some new threads on CoG, so I go to check them in turn. The Google+ post the replies are to refuses to load, and another one that it didn't tell me about but shows up in the list doesn't actually show me the new reply in the thread. The Tapatalk notification is wrong, 2 replies turns out to be like 10. Wind up giving up on both apps and using my PC to check things.

Later, I go to sit on the john and bring it along for reading material when I realize that I don't have Flipboard anymore so I need to get an app for at least my Google Reader feeds, but when I go to Market to find one I discover that the Wifi has completely lost signal in the 15 feet to my bathroom. It eventually picks back up about 5 minutes later, after which I have to manually reconnect GrooVe IP because it doesn't realize there's a connection now and won't log in without me confirming some damn thing about 3G I don't even have.

AndChat gives me grief trying to load into it, takes a good 30 seconds for the app to come up. Checking another Tapatalk notification later, and it refuses to connect to the server so I have to log out and then log back in again. Audiogalaxy crashes on me for no apparent reason while trying to open it from the widget. I somehow accidentally kill all active processes save Chrome Beta because the ASUS task list widget misinterpreted a long press as a tap.

And all this before I've even been up for an hour. And now, 2 hours after being up, I'm already almost 10% down on the battery, despite barely actually doing anything with the thing at all.

Sigh. I want this to be good. There are so many things about it that ARE good, but experiences like this are exactly what made me want to hurl my Nexus One through a fucking wall inside of 6 months, and why I switched to iOS in the first place.

And the thing is? Apple is now 6 days out on my PayPal claim they told me to file. My account is still disabled, and I still don't have my damn $40. Basically what I'm saying here is that if they don't come through, and hell, after this experience even if they do, I'm not sure I have any choice in the matter anyway.

A disabled Apple ID is basically a death sentence for an iOS device, but there's a whole submarket of Android tablets that don't even have the official Google Market. I've got two different app stores on my Transformer right now, and off the top of my head I can think of at least two more I could install on top of it. And that's in addition to stuff like having DOSBox and UAE and all those emulators, and a faster Splashtop custom optimized to the hardware that paired with this gorgeous resolution actually becomes usable on a practical level.

I think I want to keep it, I'm just worried I'm going to regret that decision. But I also wonder if I really have any choice but to keep it after the experience I've had with Apple over the last two weeks. The fact that said experience is taking two fucking weeks alone is reason enough to never touch an iOS device again.

[Spectre-7]

Thumb Keyboard is good but man ate some of the keys in weird dumb places, like the comma being on the numbers page.

Long-hold on the period.

[J Arcane]

Long-hold on the period.
I did figure that out shortly after posting, embarassingly enough. Still an irritating slow down, and if you press too long, it instead brings up a big menu full of symbols. I started using the autocomplete bar instead because it was single-press. I don't understand why they would make such a common piece of punctuation so difficult to access.

[Spectre-7]

Not sure how I never noticed this, but (on my layout at least) there's a comma to the left of the space-bar as well. Feeling a bit dopey all of a sudden.

[J Arcane]

Not sure how I never noticed this, but (on my layout at least) there's a comma to the left of the space-bar as well. Feeling a bit dopey all of a sudden.
It goes away for me when I'm in split mode and one-handed mode, turning into either a voice input or a / depending on context. There's a ton of customization options I haven't delved into yet though, I bet I can just put the damn comma back.

[MagGnome]

Amazon Wireless has the Droid 4 for $99.

And double data plans now through the end of the month.

I'm really having to wrestle with whether I can handle going back to Gingerbread from ICS for a couple of months til Moto pushes an update.

If it weren't for the stupid locked bootloader, I'd pull the trigger without thought.

Wow, that is a great deal. I wish you hadn't shared it. :p

[Serapth]

A transformer without the keyboard dock is pretty pointless, you really should have spent the other 90$.

As to Wifi, get Wifi Analyzer, and scan for the channel, the antenna is weak as balls, but if you switch your router to the right channel it makes a gigantic difference.


That said, I'm not going to defend Android too strongly, I am not a huge fan, it's just so fucking unpolished in so many ways. This is why Im going WinPhone 7 next. I can't stomach the Apple anti-consumerism, or the Android hackishness.

[J Arcane]

A transformer without the keyboard dock is pretty pointless, you really should have spent the other 90$.


It's not "another $90." It's another $150 if I could get one retail (I can't, the only place that sells them here is Best Buy and they sold their last one 2 hours before I got to the store), and over $250 if I pay the scalpers online, unless I want to wait a month and a half for my order.

I have Wifi Analyzer, I'm already on the best channel I can be using for my house. I could monkey with switching down to 9 or 10 from 11, but that's about all the play I have there.

If you don't like Apple, I'm not sure why you'd want the Windows Phone either, considering they're doing the same shit with locking down the hardware to their store, and they're even talking about doing it to Windows 8 on ARM now. WOA will apparently not run ANY third party apps at all in desktop mode, and Metro apps have to go through Marketplace just like on a phone. And it's not like Microsoft's record is exactly glowing by comparison either, if it's the moral angle you're aiming at.

[Slack3r78]

So.... just ordered a Droid 4. We'll see if I hate it.