Prime Keyboard - I useful tip; several "Concerns" - Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime

Since the Keyboard Dock is the major difference between the Prime and ALL other tablets (there are keyboards out there, and there are docks out there, but other than the Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet (Nice! Still a Tegra 2 Device though) there's no other tablets offering the slick KB/Battery/Dock combination that looks and works like this.
Ahh, my first slip. The "works" comment needs to be examined. How many of you find navigating with the keyboard a bit inconsistent, sometimes difficult, and see the cursor move to the top left (to the first cursor position in the block) when typing in web text boxes - like when replying on XDA forums.
I know to turn off the touchpad using the hardware toggle top row 4th key from left. That does not change the cursor jump thing however. I have checked and tried to determine if I am inadvertently striking a key, or even touching the screen perhaps, but I do not see that being the case
Additionally selecting, cutting, copying, pasting are all inconsistent at best, and non functional in some scenarios. Example: I select some text by touching the screen on the text, then dragging slightly right or left. This will generally work, the text gets highlighted, and 2 drag points are provided. Using these, I define what the start and end points are, and select copy for example. Great, then I select an insertion point via tap and hold a second. A "Paste" button pops up by my finger, and tap that. GREAT! I just completed copy paste 101! Now, I go to do it again. Not so good. I try to select text, but all I can get is an insertion point for pasting, and no matter what I try, that's all I can do.
I realize this smacks of user error, and I am perfectly willing to admit I am possibly being a retard. If that's the case, can someone tell me how to clear the mode, and be able to select text again? I have tried what would make sense on a PC; hitting escape when it is trying to paste instead of selecting. NG.
What truly puzzles me (more than the right click = "back" bit of Android weirdness) is that I can select text like I am used to by holding shift, and using the cursor arrow keys to highlight any block of text, but once selected, STILL have to tap/hold to do anything with it. And even THAT seems limited to cut/copy or backspace to delete. Further, it is also subject to the "stuck in paste" mode I described above. I am not a touch typist, more of a "fast & furious" two finger guy, perhaps 50wpm, which is not bad but the limitation is I must look at the keyboard about 75% of the time. Then I look and see the errors, and fight with text select/cut/copy/paste all over again.
I am interested to see others take on the keyboard and these Asus/Android text issues. I would like to assemble a set of documentation that explains the behavior, the known issues and/or the workarounds or resolutions, a complete Keyboard Shortcut List (The one I attached is very good but far from perfect)
Finally here's a great tip: I am sure most have noticed the glaring absence of a true "Delete" key. All we have is a Backspace key, which is good HALF of the time, LOL. When you need to delete text to the RIGHT of the cursor you are SOL. TIP: Try this: SHIFT + BACKSPACE = DELETE
I just searched on this, knowing that I am not likely to be the first to discover this (I am not, Tips show up of OG Transformer.) Anyway, I am at least passing on the discovery for others to benefit. Also, don't forget to change the software keyboard to ASUS when using the dock KB.

I haven't used my dock much, but the other day while writing an email, the cursor jumped as you described. I thought I'd just brushed up against the touchpad, so I disabled it, finished writing my email and sent it.
I was assuming that was what the issue had been, and I haven't really used the dock since, so I haven't had a chance to see the problem happen again... I would suspect that if the cursor still jumps for you there's some sort of bug though (and I will still see the cursor jump as well.)
I'll play around with it and report my findings.

I have found as you mentioned if you do not disable the mouse pad you will be plagued with typing issues. I noticed that when the touchpad is on if my wrists hit the aluminum within a 1/8th of an inch of the touchpad it still caused the issues but with the touch screen I have 0 use for the mouse so its always disabled.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium

SmartAs$Phone said:
Also, don't forget to change the software keyboard to ASUS when using the dock KB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was curious about this warning when I first plugged in my dock. What exactly is the difference? I've had my KB set to Thumb Keyboard the whole time and haven't noticed any problems. What's to be gained from using ASUS?

I'm curious too... to be honest I'm not sure what mine is set to, but it's whatever it defaulted to (I haven't checked it or changed it.)
By the way, I tested my dock with the touchpad disabled, and experienced no jumping cursors. I wrote quite a lenthgy, babbling test email to myself, and everything went totally as it should.
jh120 said:
I was curious about this warning when I first plugged in my dock. What exactly is the difference? I've had my KB set to Thumb Keyboard the whole time and haven't noticed any problems. What's to be gained from using ASUS?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I think I understand what you are explaining and what our frustrations are. And most of them are with the select/copy/paste function. Please be aware that this function changes depending on where you are/what program/app you are using. It is not always the dock's "fault". It's the same way if you were just using the tablet. I think the best example is if you are trying to cut/paste/select in an email (gmail, whatever) versus doing the same thing typing in a text or a polaris document or a google search item. Some apps and programs give you different functions (if I understand it correctly) - I say this because I see this difference on my phone, not just with the Prime and dock. Not with everything, but with many things.
Does that make sense? I get frustrated with it too because it is inconsistent.
One thing that HAS driven me mad is caps lock!! ever notice it get stuck on? Shift, caps lock, shift, escape....I can't get it unlocked until I just randomly peck away at each and it stops

I don't have any of these issues and I never disable the track pad, I love this keyboard its perfect for note taking in class and emails. As for the copy/paste I haven't tried that too much yet, its easy enough to select text.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium

jh120 said:
I was curious about this warning when I first plugged in my dock. What exactly is the difference? I've had my KB set to Thumb Keyboard the whole time and haven't noticed any problems. What's to be gained from using ASUS?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I originally would leave the keyboard set to the swift keyboard with the dock attached thinking it just worked the same but I eventually noticed errors. Seems to be program specific in that these errors could be repeated in certain programs and not others. Been a while now since I gave up using swift with the dock so I don't remember specifics but it was something like it worked just fine for most programs but in one program the T button would produce the wrong letter but everything else was fine or in another program the I button would not produce any letter but the rest of the keyboard would work. When using splashtop on for my desktop it was even more erratic where individual programs on the computer would react differently to the keyboard input and some in a very severe way. I thought it was an issue with splashtop until I switched to Asus keyboard with the dock and all the aforementioned problems went away... and then I learned that many keyboard shortcuts work with Asus keyboard like a regular computer so I just make sure and make the switch when I connect to the dock.
Oh, and I have to disable the touchpad. Mouse pointer and input jumps all over the place if I type with a that enabled.

jh120 said:
I was curious about this warning when I first plugged in my dock. What exactly is the difference? I've had my KB set to Thumb Keyboard the whole time and haven't noticed any problems. What's to be gained from using ASUS?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go there and change Asus fatality..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1468085
[MOD][HOWTO] Adjust your hardware keyboard's default language

TIP: Try this: SHIFT + BACKSPACE = DELETE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Love it! Here's another one:
ALT + Tab = Recent Apps List

That jumping to the first line is the only thing that annoys me sometimes. Everything else is perfect. We are all used to operate a windows machine with our keyboards. So this is a slightly different experience.
I found it works best if embrace the touchscreen even with dock attached. We are all still learning how to use our primes the most efficient way.

I have the Backspace key stop working quite often. Sometimes it starts working again after i press "Shift" (regardless of caps lock being on or off). Does this happen to anyone else?

If your having problems copying, tap where you want to begin a copy, hold shift and press a cursor key in the direction you want to copy, then ctrl + c, ctrl + v.
You can also use home and end to copy large amounts of text.

Well, I use my Prime at the uni, at mostly with the dock (much much much faster to write stuff). I find it perfect, honestly! Very useful and comfortable (ok, the first day is was kind of strange, but with training everything is alright).

The standard ctrl-c (copy), ctrl-x (cut), and ctrl-v (paste) shortcuts work on highlighted text. So, that avoids the need to long-press the selected text to act on it.

wynand32 said:
The standard ctrl-c (copy), ctrl-x (cut), and ctrl-v (paste) shortcuts work on highlighted text. So, that avoids the need to long-press the selected text to act on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This ^^^
I never use the screen for copy/paste, I've always hated trying to select very specific text with touchscreens.
And I have not noticed this fail to work in any of my apps.
Now if only we could get some ctrl+z and ctrl+y (undo/redo) in Android altogether. Especially because I also do notice the cursor jump at times when my track-pad is most definitely off, and I get tired of actually having to remember what the hell was flowing from my head to my fingers a couple of seconds ago

Didn't want to start a new thread or anything, and this is the first one on keyboards I've seen for 4 pages so here it is lol
A screw has promptly left its place in the dock. I haven't noticed the dock itself start to pull apart or anything, I generally still hold it by the screen or right underneath the hinge, but this sucks haha I Don't know how I could tighten it back in myself (don't have any drivers that're going to work that angle) and certainly don't want to go shipping it off.
But just so it's out there, so people know to watch out and not lose the screw. I was having trouble docking, so I looked and there it was
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oO_SwooP_Oo said:
Love it! Here's another one:
ALT + Tab = Recent Apps List
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good info... heh never trid that one-
Thanks!

Try this, move cursor to any text on a webpage or something and touch the mouse pad with you 2 fingers at the same time, takes a second and you can open a new background tab or whatever
Its good if you wanna open a something in a new page but dont want to press the buttons every time.

Johnny0906 said:
Try this, move cursor to any text on a webpage or something and touch the mouse pad with you 2 fingers at the same time, takes a second and you can open a new background tab or whatever
Its good if you wanna open a something in a new page but dont want to press the buttons every time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Holy crap! That's why new tabs keep magically popping up on me!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD via my tethered HTC Vision

Related

Multiple keyboards = can't change without reboot?

I'm still having the problem where if I try to change to a 3rd party sip, the default keyboard comes up instead.
Reading around the web implies that it might be a problem wince wm2003, and only if you have more then 1 3rd party sip installed.
I currently use SIPChange to change my default keyboard - but that requires a reboot every time I want to change keyboard.
Is this behavior just me, or everyone? Any known fixes? I have found many people with this problem on different ppc's, but no known fix.
(Just to clarify - I use SIPChange to change my default to Phraze-It. Reboot. Phraze-It works perfectly. I try to change to Fitaly using either the arrow next to the sip, or through the system/personal/input - and the default keyboard comes up. Also, the arrow change takes about 10-15 seconds to give me a list).
Heeeelp.
For extra points, any known way to have 2 defaults - 1 for portrait & 1 for landscape ?
A problem with WM2003? Why have you installed that on your Athena?
I have the same problem.
I have Tengo, CE Star, Penpower, and Happy Tapping Keyboard installed. I am able to switch to Tengo, CE Star, and Penpower anytime without reboot anytime. However, in order to switch to happy tapping keyboard I need to use sipchange to choose it followed by a reset in order to get it working. Without the reset, I only have the default keyboard which is hard to use in 128 and 96 dpi.
I 'm also hoping to find a solution to this problem.
Confucious said:
A problem with WM2003? Why have you installed that on your Athena?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry if I wasn't clear - from my research, it has been a problem since the WM2003 Version of the PPC Mobile software.
Had this problem on my i730, but though it was a specific keyboard with the problem at the time. Tested my i730 - exact same symptoms as I'm having now. Looks like an OS problem as far as I can tell.
eaglesteve said:
I have the same problem.
I have Tengo, CE Star, Penpower, and Happy Tapping Keyboard installed. I am able to switch to Tengo, CE Star, and Penpower anytime without reboot anytime. However, in order to switch to happy tapping keyboard I need to use sipchange to choose it followed by a reset in order to get it working. Without the reset, I only have the default keyboard which is hard to use in 128 and 96 dpi.
I 'm also hoping to find a solution to this problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You had me all exited that there were new keyboard I didn't know about (for anyone reading this thread, the keyboards he mentions are for entering Chinese (kenji?).
At least you can do some of them - I want to switch between Phraze-It (excellent landscape mode), Touchpal (looooving it, but takes up a lot of landscape space), Phone Pad (the T9 thing I just found out about yesterday).
Turning into a MAJOR problem, cause I'm not carrying the keyboard regularly.
polstein said:
You had me all exited that there were new keyboard I didn't know about (for anyone reading this thread, the keyboards he mentions are for entering Chinese (kenji?).
At least you can do some of them - I want to switch between Phraze-It (excellent landscape mode), Touchpal (looooving it, but takes up a lot of landscape space), Phone Pad (the T9 thing I just found out about yesterday).
Turning into a MAJOR problem, cause I'm not carrying the keyboard regularly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to have got you all excited
Your comment about some keyboard taking too much space is echoed by me. It seems like a contradiction that we want to have big tapping area but not taking over too much real estate. That'a why i'm so happy with Tengo (more specifically Tengo Nano). It takes less real estate than the standard keyboard, yet the hitting area (key size)is bigger than any other on the market other than Tengo 2.1, Tengo Thumb,and free Tengo.
The other thing I like about Tengo is that my thumb or stylus need not travel all over the place,which is not very relaxing.
If you can't get yours working at all, why not give Tengo a try?
The only problem of Tengo is it does not work with any software that tries to find out what you want as you type. It does not work with my Wine Guide, my lexisgoo dictionary, and Tomeraiders 3. That's why I supplement it with happy tapping.
I have no connection with Tengo in any way whatsoever. Just a very happy customer.
Tengo Nano is new to me (opening a new web page as I type). I liked the Tengo approach, but geeze, leave some space for something other then the keyboard!
I'm would prefer a keyboard without using a stylus (or I'd be using Fitaly - or shapewriter if they ever release the dang thing!!) - I'd much rather use thumbs.
I tried Tengo thumb, but in portrait it's unusable cause there is so little screen left. Also, I never found out how to 'scratch' a single letter in Tengo Thumb for entering passwords and the like.
That's why (at the moment) Phraze-it is my choice. It fits well in both Portrait & Landscape, and retains big buttons. The downside is that it takes 2 clicks to enter most letters.
ASAIK, I've tried alllllmost every keyboard made for PPCs. (then i hear about this nano thing)
I like the Touchpal a lot, especially once he gets a few kinks worked out - but it also suffers from the too-much landscape problem. If I could, I would have Touchpal permanently set to portrait mode. I also just found out about Phone Pad (the T9 rip), but can't make it stop playing a beep sound for every new word!
So for now, being limited to one choice, the best I can do it Phraze-It. Will check this nano thing now.
---
And in any case, still having the can't switch problem
I don't see a Tengo Nano - or is that the correct name for the keyboard that is not Tengo Thumb (or Tengo Free). Version 2.10
(assuming that is the case), do you use the stylus, or your fingers?
If thumbs, how do you do the scribing (one letter thing) with your thumbs?
Oh, and how about real estate used in landscape?
Mebbe I'll try a demo - I might have already tried, but I think it was Tengo Thumb I demoed before.
Actually, Tengo Nano is one of the three keyboard options within Tengo 2.1. It is very similar to Tengo. The main difference being the availability of number keys without having to press any toggle key first.
You said that you do not use stylus. I find that interesting. Do you not use realVGA 128dpi or 96dpi? Even with 192dpi, can you really do without stylus? I personally find it rather challenging to fully operate without stylus. Using the XDA forum,for example, I often press to go to the last post of a thread. At 128dpi, it is very difficult to click with my finger. The keyboard is not the only thing to tap. There is always a need to tap on some part of the screen other than the keyboard. There are usually some places too small to be tapped with fingers. At 96of course it is even worse. So, for me, stylus is in most cases necessary. The question is, if i'm already holding the stylus, isn't it much easier to tap with it rather than having to put it away, then type with the finger, then pick up the stylus again.........? It is for this reason that I have reverted back to stylus typing rather than finger typing.
I'm also the type who wants to explore all kinds of keyboard. I'm going to try out what you are using too.
Found the Tengo Nano - I have Tengo installed as a demo. Works pretty good for keys, and looks good in landscape - the 'scribing' a letter with a thumb isn't doable.
(and tengo thumb is huuuuuuge)
I have RealVGA installed, but I hit a lot of compatibility problems with a few programs. In fairness, a number of programs have specific checkboxes to take advantage of RealVGA also (like Pocketbreeze, and iLauncher <off top of my head so I may be wrong>) - but in a day of demoing I hit a lot of weird behavior from different programs.
I'd be interested in how well RealVGA works for you. If it helps, my today screen is currently a combination of WA3, WAD, iLauncher, and Pocketbreeze using a Vista theme, with 4 Virtual Pages Been tweaking it for a week now.
I have thumbprints all over my screen (yes, I have a screen protector on it). I try to use it without the stylus as much as possible. I also use a slip/poch case, and usually don't carry the keyboard. So, when I work, I'm holding the main unit by itself with no case.
I am also using a car mount, and pulling out a stylus to hit a button on the screen isn't so workable.
I got a 3-in-1 stylus replacement, but it's no improvement over the default. I **REALLY** wish there was an extendable stylus, cause the one that comes with the HTC is just too dang short. The tip digs into my index finger around the 3rd nuckle (counting from the tip). I actually got a couple pen / pencil / sylus combos to keep around to use them instead.
BTW, if I could shift resolutions without rebooting, I'd probably use it all the time - like web browsing... and mebbe then the sip screen real estate wouldn't be such a problem.
I wish I remembered exactly the problems I encountered using 128dpi. Mebbe I'll back my unit up, and change resolutions and see what breaks!
I attached my today screen (yes, we're off topic here). iLauncher icons at the bottom are 64. PocketBreeze is juuuust big enough to fit everything in.
The row under the start bar has icon sizes at 32. Icons on that bar are left to right - 1st Virtual Page (the current one) - 2nd Virtual Page featuring Weatherpanel - 3rd Virtual Page with Meters - 4th Virtual Page where I'm messing around with Docks. Then rotate, restart, and power off. Yes, those last 3 are duplicated below, but some of my virtual pages don't have iLauncher on it, so I'm doubling up on those buttons now - it's easier for me to hit the screen then brace the unit to hit the hard power on the side.
I don't have any problems using a finger to hit any of the icons - even the 32 pixel ones. The 64 ones are real easy, or course.
I think I spend more time tweaking this desktop then using the device for anything else so far
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Glad you found Tengo Nano. Yes,even in landscape mode it would not invade too much of the screen. I used to finger type with Nano, and then come to scribing the key, I solved the problem by keeping longer finger nail for my right index finger.
Yes, Tengo Thumb is fantastic for Thumb typing but I don't like it for invading too much screen space, leaving too little visibility, hence largely defeating the purpose of realvga, which is to see more. It is almost as big as the gigantic Finger Touch.
I don't have any issue with 128dpi. I just can't handle 96dpi with my less than perfect eye sight. Also,I find it at times hard to click on the tiny tiny spots on 96dpi screen, even with stylus. It's easy with 128.
The only programs I use in the car is iGO my way. I never need stylus to start it or operate it. It has it's own keyboard,which is hugh enough to be operated with fingers. I map the application to one of the hardware buttons to start it. Alternatively,I could also use finger on my today screen to start all my applications. I could fit all them on the desktop and start them without changing desktop pages. I use icon size 43 for 128dpi. I also use one of the hardware buttons to start the dpi switcher. One more hardware button is for rotating screen, and another is for starting sipchange program, since I can't find any other use for this otherwise unused button.
To sum up, my set up works extremely well for me. I get to see a lot and Tengo does not take over too much real estate,yet providing hugh tapping area for the keys. It also does not require my stylus to travel all over the screen during typing. Most of the time by stylus stays within a 1 square inch area hitting 6 groups of keys, so it is very relaxing and quick. It is very intelligent. However, an intelligent keyboard is not good with intelligent programs such as Lexisgoo as both are trying to guess what I want!
Having said that, I also have to clarify that I can use scrible Tengo keys and still use lexisgoo. It would work. It's just that I prefer to touch the key.
That's why I still like an option (I can also do without it) of a 'dumb' keyboard for 'intelligent' programs. Hence Happy Tapping as it looks cool and not too hugh.
Which should bring us back to topic again. How can we overcome the selection problem with multiple SIP, without having to reboot?
eaglesteve said:
Glad you found Tengo Nano. Yes,even in landscape mode it would not invade too much of the screen. I used to finger type with Nano, and then come to scribing the key, I solved the problem by keeping longer finger nail for my right index finger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny, but I'd never be able to keep one long. I actually bought a pack of Truetips (fingertip stylus), but that's 1 more thing to carry around.. might as well use a good pen/stylus - still looking for a good light one.
eaglesteve said:
I don't have any issue with 128dpi. I just can't handle 96dpi with my less than perfect eye sight. Also,I find it at times hard to click on the tiny tiny spots on 96dpi screen, even with stylus. It's easy with 128.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried changing my dpi again. Only programs with fits were pre WM5 ones - including Photo Contacts Pro (gotta see if I'm on a old version). But I didn't really get much advantage out of it. Many program I ran looked the same, but for a smaller Start Menu.
eaglesteve said:
To sum up, my set up works extremely well for me. I get to see a lot and Tengo does not take over too much real estate,yet providing hugh tapping area for the keys. It also does not require my stylus to travel all over the screen during typing. Most of the time by stylus stays within a 1 square inch area hitting 6 groups of keys, so it is very relaxing and quick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did notice that when testing it, you can really keep the stylus within a very small area, a defanite plus cause most wrist pain is from lifting and lowering the stylus over & over again. I would defanitly consider it if I made Stylus-typing my primary writing method... but I would prefer 2 thumbs.
eaglesteve said:
Which should bring us back to topic again. How can we overcome the selection problem with multiple SIP, without having to reboot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've posted on a few forums, but no luck at all with responses. Either we're the few with the problem, or most people settle for just 1 keyboard.
It's actually not the question of having multiple keyboard but the kind of keyboard which caused the selection problem.
I just tried out Phraze-it, and I could not select it unless I reboot after sipchange. Same for keyboards such as happy tapping and finger touch.
However,I have no problem loading Tengo Thumb AND Tengo 2.1 (which includes Tengo nano), AND CE star AND Penpower all at the same time and freely switch from anyone to another without having to reboot.
Tengo used to have similar problems, but that has apparently been resolved with the current version.
BTW when I tried out Phrase-it I noticed that every letter I typed required 2 taps. Is this normal way of using this keyboard or I'm not doing it right? How fast can you type after getting used to it?
For your interest I've also measured the size of keys and also size of keyboard for the following:
Finger touch layout 1
Size of key in portrait : 7.5mm x7.5mm =56.25 sq mm
Size of key in landscape : 7.5x10mm=75 sq mm
Height: 37.5mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=yes
Happy tapping
31mm height
Landscape mode
10mmx8mm=80mm2
Portrait mode
7.5mmx8mm=60mm2
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=no
Tengo nano
key size 18x6 .=108 sq mm
Height 24mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=yes
Tengo 2.1
key size 25x6 =150 sq mm
Height 30mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=no
Tengo Thumb
key size 26x14=364 sq mm
Height 53 mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=yes
Phraze-it
170.4 sq mm key size
Height = 44mm for 3 rows layout, and 46 mm for 2 rows layout. The other layout are too tall for considerations.
Access to all ABC keys=No
Direct access to numbers=No
TouchPal
154 sq mm key size
Height = 44mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=No
Standard keyboard (small key)
Height 25 mm
5.6 x5mm=28mm2
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=yes
Standard keyboard (large key)
Height=25mm
Key size = 39 sq mm
Access to all ABC keys=yes
Direct access to numbers=No
If you do not mind the height of the keyboard, Tengo Thumb is actually the easiest keyboard available for fast thumb typing. With it, you need not scribe as there is a switch to turn off predictive text, so you could type letter by letter for password etc,similar to Phraze-it. You are also able to press all numbers directly without first toggling to it. Look at the size of its key! It's good for even extremely large fingers. You need not press twice to get each letter like Phraze-it.
If you use this for your thumb typing, your SIP selection problem would be history.
edit: I need correct my earlier statement. It IS the number of SIP rather than the identity that causes selection problem. I am able to freely select about 5 of them. ANY 5 of them it seems, after just one initial reboot. Tip: take out the battery just before reboot helps to bring in more selectable SIP. Now I have CeStar, Penpower, Happy Tapping (with iPhone skin), Tengo, Finger Touch all selectable without needing reboot. TouchPal, Phraze-it and Tengo Thumb could not be selected unless I reboot. Of course, all standard ones such as phone pad are all okay.
polstein said:
do you use the stylus, or your fingers?
If thumbs, how do you do the scribing (one letter thing) with your thumbs?
Oh, and how about real estate used in landscape?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay I didn't answer this properly yet . I am able to type with both with tengo 2.1. thumb typing is easier using tengo 2.1 than nano. I also am able to scribe with my finger without any problem, provided I set the scribing sensitivity to either standard or high.
Tengo 2.1 might be most suitable for you, rather than thumb or nano since real estate is important (it is only 2mm taller than the standard keyboard) and you want to use fingers.
I'm able to type VERY fast with my finger if I use tengo 2.1, but slightly slower with nano. The nano keys are slightly smaller, as you can see from the previous post.
This post is typed with my finger using both version of Tengo. No problem whatsoever. The problem is I have to put away the stylus in order to type with finger. Without stylus, I can't easily touch the tiny spots on the web pages., for example to jump to a specific page of a thread.
eaglesteve said:
It's actually not the question of having multiple keyboard but the kind of keyboard which caused the selection problem.
I just tried out Phraze-it, and I could not select it unless I reboot after sipchange. Same for keyboards such as happy tapping and finger touch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First off, thank you *very* much for installing the SIP - I have not been able to get this kind of confirmation for weeks - I still didn't know if this was my pcc, the keyboard, or an O/S problem. If it is in fact the developer, I will be emailing them shortly...
eaglesteve said:
BTW when I tried out Phrase-it I noticed that every letter I typed required 2 taps. Is this normal way of using this keyboard or I'm not doing it right? How fast can you type after getting used to it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not very fast, but I've only been using it for a couple of weeks. But the demo I saw (youtube) was pretty slow too. This keyboard is not designed for speed, but rather for a small amount of big buttons (and minimal screen space). When I need to do a lot of typing, I'm using a different keyboard, but for small quick entry like a web page or small sms it works very well. This is also why I need to figure out this switching problem - so I don't have to reboot when it comes time to type something longer!
eaglesteve said:
If you do not mind the height of the keyboard, Tengo Thumb is actually the easiest keyboard available for fast thumb typing. With it, you need not scribe as there is a switch to turn off predictive text, so you could type letter by letter for password etc,similar to Phraze-it. You are also able to press all numbers directly without first toggling to it. Look at the size of its key! It's good for even extremely large fingers. You need not press twice to get each letter like Phraze-it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed that Tengo Thumb was very good for thumb typing, but the screen size is among the worst height on your list. How did you measure those figures? I'll measure Phraze-It to add to this list (and anything else I have). How big is the screen itself?
I didn't see the option to turn off the predictive text, when one does that I assume you can use it as a regular keyboard?
BTW, I think I had the same switching problem with Tengo Thumb - but I believe my demo is up on it. Also, I assume Tengo & Tengo Thumb are two seperate purchases?
eaglesteve said:
If you use this for your thumb typing, your SIP selection problem would be history.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have Tengo Thumb installed? Are you able to switch between Tengo and Tengo Thumb (and the standard keyboard) with no problems?
Having 1 company with your "stylus" keyboard and your "thumb" keyboard is a big plus, especially hen they should have similar look/feels.
Given practice on both, I wonder which is faster. Ideally, Tengo Thumb coild be for quick entry, and Tengo w/stylus for longer typing.
In Tengo Thumb, how did u turn the predictive text off - is it easy to turn off & on for entering things like passwords?
I don't suppose Tengo supports macros (so I could do something like "hm" and get my Home Email address?
eaglesteve said:
Okay I didn't answer this properly yet . I am able to type with both with tengo 2.1. thumb typing is easier using tengo 2.1 than nano. I also am able to scribe with my finger without any problem, provided I set the scribing sensitivity to either standard or high.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried Tengo (the normal one) very briefly yesterday. I am now setting it as default - I'll try to use it as my keyboard over the next few days. My brief experience showed that thumb typing on it was hard, and scribing impossible for me. Just to be sure, 2.1 = normal Tengo, default keyboard?
eaglesteve said:
I'm able to type VERY fast with my finger if I use tengo 2.1, but slightly slower with nano. The nano keys are slightly smaller, as you can see from the previous post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And just to make sure I understand this, Tengo Nano is smaller keys, which means less stylus movement, and you have the numbers on the main screen?
eaglesteve said:
This post is typed with my finger using both version of Tengo. No problem whatsoever. The problem is I have to put away the stylus in order to type with finger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is an advantage for me
eaglesteve said:
Without stylus, I can't easily touch the tiny spots on the web pages., for example to jump to a specific page of a thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[/QUOTE]
I use the Directional pad to hop to links, to avoid the problem.
My kingdom for an extendable stylus that fits this thing!
Thanks again for all your help - Tengo should send you commissions. I'll let you know how it goes!
polstein said:
How did you measure those figures? I'll measure Phraze-It to add to this list (and anything else I have). How big is the screen itself?
I didn't see the option to turn off the predictive text, when one does that I assume you can use it as a regular keyboard?
Also, I assume Tengo & Tengo Thumb are two seperate purchases?
Do you have Tengo Thumb installed? Are you able to switch between Tengo and Tengo Thumb (and the standard keyboard) with no problems?
Given practice on both, I wonder which is faster. Ideally, Tengo Thumb coild be for quick entry, and Tengo w/stylus for longer typing.
In Tengo Thumb, how did u turn the predictive text off - is it easy to turn off & on for entering things like passwords?
I don't suppose Tengo supports macros (so I could do something like "hm" and get my Home Email address?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used a ruler to measure it.
The screen itself is 76mm x 100.5mm
The tutorial shows how predictive text can be turned off.
They are differen purchases. Tengo Thumb is good for word processing and email or sms, but not suitable for excel and web surfing because it invades too much of the screen real estate. If you use fingers instead of stylus, Thumb is faster. If you use stylus, Thumb is slower because the distance travelled by the stylus is unnecessarily longer.
Both are good for quick entries. Both are good for long long fast typing. Yes, I would type a book with both instead of PC keyboard.
To type password, you have more ways than turning predictive text off. You can scribe, which you already know. You can also tap exactly on the correct key, but just ignore the warning feedback, then when finished, choose it from the top right.
It does not have macro. But with such typing speed,who needs it? To get idea of what sort of speed I'm talking about, go to the Tengo website to see how fast the 'Tengo girls' are typing. I don't type that fast, but not very far behind.
Cheers.
polstein said:
Just to be sure, 2.1 = normal Tengo, default keyboard?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
polstein said:
And just to make sure I understand this, Tengo Nano is smaller keys, which means less stylus movement, and you have the numbers on the main screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can use it without the need to toggle it on first.
polstein said:
I use the Directional pad to hop to links, to avoid the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will work. Not very efficient though.
polstein said:
Thanks again for all your help - Tengo should send you commissions. I'll let you know how it goes!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's my pleasure.
Ha ha. I wish they just give me free update for life.
I just updated the keyboard height and keysize for happy tapping. Also landscape keysize for Finger Touch . It actually looks very good. even better than Finger Touch for Finger typing. I don't need stylus to easily use it. although not nearly as fast as Tengo.
Strange, now I can select Happy Tapping and Tengo. The only thing I change to make it selectable is to use the blend looking skin. I can't select if I use the iPhone skin.
First, I think I might make a little Excel Sheet/Graph of your measurements. I'll put in columns for letter height, letter width, calculated total letter area, total keyboard height in landscape, and for portrait.
I wasn't expecting the old ruler, I thought you might have had a neat app, or were doing screen grabs and checking them in Photoshop or something). Mebbe I'll do scren grabs of the different keyboard, but it's just such a PITA to reboot between each one.
--
I tried & tried to use Tengo 2.1 last night. Oddly, for landscape mode, I wish the keys were wider - even clicking on the outside of the center keys (toward the edges) I had to stretch a bit to get them.
With effort, I think I could learn to scribe using my thumbs. fter about 15 minutes of practice, I could scribe the correct letter at least 50% of the time.
Mebbe I'm not using the keyboard right - but I had another major problem - it constantly guessed the wrong word! Some key combinations do have many possible words - but I think I entered "Star" and it had like 10 selections, but not the one I wanted.
This problem came up a suprising amount of times. Also, Tengo didn't seem to notice when I used the same word more often and make it higher on the list like I hoped. Using such few "letters" there are just too many combinations!
Anyway, when it missed the word, I used the 'delete last word' key and scribed it instead. Not sure if that's the correct way. I tried to use the tutorials, but the formatting is all messed up on the screen.
So I switched back to Touchpal already. Since touchpal uses 14 letter keys, it gets the word right 99.5+ % of the time. Also, it figures out longer words after about 3 clicks it seems.
My major request to the programmer, was to re-align the special keys in landscape mode, so instead of 5 columns of 4 rows to make 6 columns of 3 rows - that would reduce the overall height by 25%.

Keyboard and Mouse shortcuts/Commands?

Can anyone list or link me to a list of keyboard and mouse commands for our tablet?
I have a bluetooth mini keyboard* with a built in mouse and I would like to be able to control my tablet from my couch while it is connected to my TV's HDMI. However, I cannot figure out how to do basic tasks with the keyboard.
* The keyboard is this type:http://compare.ebay.com/like/400254296761?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar&_lwgsi=y&cbt=y
Also, I'm not sure if the commands are tablet-specific, Android specific, or if they even exist at all. (I have searched XDA and Google, but because I do not know exactly what keywords to use, I am coming up without answers!)
Shortcuts I mainly need:
1-3) The three icons in the lower left of taskbar (they don't appear through HDMI): Back, Home, and the Prev Apps
4) Change homescreens/swipe left and swipe right (I can long click and move the mouse to do this, but it is difficult to do with my mouse since it is a knob type)
5) Long hold
6) Any other commands... heck, let's make a database if it doesnt exist already!
In case it matters: I am using ICS 4.0.3 stock (with root).
Ok, wait, I kinda figured some things out, but I still need help I think:
1) Back = (correction) RClick for some apps.
2) Prev Apps =
3) Still don't know Home EXACTLY, but while in an app, Right Click seems to exit to Homescreen... but if on a different Homescreen, pressing RClick will not bring you back to your default Screen. RClick does NOT seem to act like Back at all though.
Correction: RClick seems to act as Back in SOME apps.
4) I found that I can change Homescreens two ways:
a) Move mouse to far R/L side and click
b) Use the scrollbar for the mouse (the one used to scroll through webpages, etc); Downward = Left and Upward = Right
If there are any other methods, please list them.
5) Long Hold = Long Click
... *facepalm* I shouldve guessed this one from the start!!!!
6) Still, if anyone can fill in the blanks and list any others, it would be helpful to myself and I am sure many others.
I have a Bluetooth keyboard that I use and pressing the escape button on it seems to act as a universal back button in every app.
Sent from my DROID RAZR Maxx using XDA Premium

Writing messages, trying to place cursor at one spot, cursor jumps to another spot

I searched this forum. I dont know if it is Android specific or device specific. All I know...theres this super annoying problem. While wtiting in the text box, if the message im writing gets long and I have to correct a typo I made or simply want to move the cursor to another location in the paragraph, the dumb cursor bounces off the spot I selected and goes someplace far off..sometimes even 3 or 4 lines up. Sometimes it just wont move there no matter how many times I touch that spot. Its like it bounces off it and goes someplace else. If the message is short, it doesnt do this.
Is there any fix for this hella annoying problem? It makes it extremely difficult to edit what I wrote.
Stock device? Have you thoroughly tested your screen to rule out display problems? This problem is certainly not present with my device, but I had a similar issue on my Droid incredible that was fixed by changing roms.
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using XDA
Also happens on some touchscreens when you are charging and nudge the cord in the port a bit. The power fluctation causes the digitizer to spaz out until unplugging, or locking and unlocking the screen while plugged still.
If you ask me I'd say its pure stupidity on HTC's part. I miss my inc that had the trackpad. All I'm saying is this. If there isn't going to be a physical way built into the front of the device to move the cursor then atleast include on screen arrows like in Sense 4. To me its just dumb that the only way to move the cursor is to touch where you want to correct. Its this reason alone that I don't enjoy typing on my Rezound like I did on my Eris or Incredible.
wildstang83 said:
If you ask me I'd say its pure stupidity on HTC's part. I miss my inc that had the trackpad. All I'm saying is this. If there isn't going to be a physical way built into the front of the device to move the cursor then atleast include on screen arrows like in Sense 4. To me its just dumb that the only way to move the cursor is to touch where you want to correct. Its this reason alone that I don't enjoy typing on my Rezound like I did on my Eris or Incredible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. You get used to it though. Sort of.
You could try reseting the calibration in settings.
Sent from my evolving Rezound.
LunaticSerenade said:
Agreed. You get used to it though. Sort of.
You could try reseting the calibration in settings.
Sent from my evolving Rezound.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol, I have what they call the...Fat Finger Syndrome. I'm gonna work on seeing if I can port the Sense 4 keyboard to Sense 3.6. Working on that now.
wildstang83 said:
Lol, I have what they call the...Fat Finger Syndrome. I'm gonna work on seeing if I can port the Sense 4 keyboard to Sense 3.6. Working on that now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But no one wants trackballs anymore. It's all about the massive screens and battery draining. I miss my Inc too. RIP trackball. Another option would be to download swiftkey. you can turn on arrows on the keyboard. makes life easier.
There are already flashables of the arrowed keyboard for 3.6.
I have a similar problem when pasting text. You put the cursor and tap and hold where you want to paste, and it jumps and selects some other text. If you hit paste, then it wipes what you previously wrote.
What's up with that?
To answer everyone... Its stock 2.3.4 ROM. And it does this regardless if it is plugged in to a charger or not. I have calibrated in the past for other reasons, but I dont think thats the problem. It seems to happen only when theres at least 4 lines or more of text. The more text in the box, the worse the problem becomes. It's not like a calibration issue. Because when you touch the spot in the text box to move the cursor there, the cursor actually does move there ..but only for a brief micro-second as it quickly bounces off that spot and lands some places else. Like I said, it only starts happening as you start to get 4 or more lines in the box. Now this box here in the quick reply, its not giving me any trouble ...yet. but some forums that use small text boxes and Facebook especially..omg its bad at facebook..
Ah yes, I'm on ICS (Newt's XXX ROM to be specific) and I believe I see what you are talking about. Typed a long response in the comment box on the Facebook app, and when scrolling the paragraph the caret does indeed bounce. It is essentially trying to stay within the tiny viewing window.
Actually I dont use the Facebook app, cant stand it. I use the browser. Either the mobile or the full site.
lol Yes, the app is rather crummy. The issue persists in the mobile version of the site and the full site to a lesser extent, depends on the amount of viewing space and amount of text. Consistent with your symptoms.
Leaning towards it being an Android problem or at least HTC Sense problem rather than specifically this device as a result. Newt's XXX ROM is a Sense 4 port after all.
Hmm. It seems to vary by page, for me. But yes, Facebook definitely does this, but so does Discus. I think it's a problem with Flash. Anyway, I "select all" and "cut" then reload the page and paste my text back in. Then I can navigate around the text normally for a while.
This even happens in the text entry window in xda, if I use the website instead of Tapatalk. I am also pretty sure this happened with my DInc as well.
(currently running stock GB)
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2
Yes, I've seen it sometimes. To compound the problem, sometimes the arrow keys on the Sense keyboard don't work properly; the left/right arrows instead move the cursor up and down.
+1 on missing the Inc's optical "trackball". Never knew how much I used it until I didn't have it.
bluetooth_decay said:
Yes, I've seen it sometimes. To compound the problem, sometimes the arrow keys on the Sense keyboard don't work properly; the left/right arrows instead move the cursor up and down.
+1 on missing the Inc's optical "trackball". Never knew how much I used it until I didn't have it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Arrow keys on sense? Where? Did not see any. Thats why I love swiftkey x because it had them arrows and they were a lifesaver. Only reason im jot using it now is because I did not purchase SKx yet. And skx kept causing problems in some IM apps I use. Its now Swiftkey 3. And im seeing some bad reviews of things I dont like. Will wait... Unless there is some other quality keyboard app ..yes quality..not clutzy..and have arrows. I thought about the Hackers keyboard but....ehh rather small keys and is better suited for landscape or a touchpad.
Arrowed Keyboard.
I'm going to revive this old thread because I'm having exactly the same problem as described in the first post, but on three different devices. First one is my S4 with stock but rooted 4.2.2 using TouchPal keyboard (great cut/paste/arrow keys/select/select all functionality), second is an old Android tablet running 4 something, lastly my brand new Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 edition, which is stock 4.3 with stock keyboard.
They all exhibit the same behavior, text entry works fine until I move the cursor position then I can't get back to the end of what I'm writing, only seems to happen when I'm using a browser (Boat Browser) and trying to reply to a forum, might try a different browser and see what happens. When it happens it completely breaks the cursor control options in TouchPal with whole sections of text just disappearing when trying to move the cursor via the keyboard. Once it's happened even submitting the post and editing it again still often has the same problem.
I think this is just an Android thing, I run across it from time to time on various devices as well, and just tap somewhere else in the text, then drag the cursor to the end of the text and continue.
But that's the thing, you try and drag the cursor to the end and it's as if it's on elastic and springs back.

Keyboard Woes

Maybe this is an android thing. I'm using the stock keyboard on Skyraider 1.3 with no other mods. It behaved the same on stock and Froyo. I don't use any prediction at all, so the experience is as manual as can be. I have used swiftkey before but I don't remember it behavind better.
I cannot type as fast as I want because sometimes the letters overwrite as I type.
For example:
I type "gotcha"
It comes out as "gotca"
As far as I know it doesn't seem to happen more often with any combos of letter, but I'm not sure I'd notice if it did.
Sometimes the cursor will jump back a few spaces as I type. It's almost like a reverse TAB.
Also, when I'm typing sometimes the keyboard loads and drags the screen far below where I'm working. So much so that I cannot see what I'm typing. So, I exit out of the keyboard, scroll back up, manually place the cursor, and as soon as I type...bam it goes to the bottom of the screen again. I think this happens most while using a browser or e-mail client. And tapatalk.
Lastly, with my SMS messages sometimes it'll completely wig out and bring up the message log of the person I'm typing to prompting me to delete what I have check boxed, which thankfully is nothing.
What's going on here? Is it user error?
Duely blundered from my thunderdolt.
I think your typing issue is from accidently moving the cursor while hitting keys on the top row. I do it frequently, its either that or accidently hitting word suggestions, which is why i turned mine off to, that is far more annoying.
I also have that problem with not being able to see what I'm typing in certain apps. I think its just an app problem, oversight by the developers.
Sent from my ADR6400L using xda app-developers app

Former S3 Owners

How do you feel about the size of this phone? I have small hands where my thumb sits easy where the power button is on the S3 but struggle one handed to get the notification bar. Almost 100% sold on getting this one and noticed the dimension differences but would like some feed back from the rest of you.
Sure I can go into the store but those dam security things mess with figuring out how the phone would really feel. Of course finding a sales rep at VZW that is willing to let you hold a real one is rare now of days.
Thanks for feedback! If all sounds well I will grab mine Friday.
Ckamc said:
How do you feel about the size of this phone? I have small hands where my thumb sits easy where the power button is on the S3 but struggle one handed to get the notification bar. Almost 100% sold on getting this one and noticed the dimension differences but would like some feed back from the rest of you.
Sure I can go into the store but those dam security things mess with figuring out how the phone would really feel. Of course finding a sales rep at VZW that is willing to let you hold a real one is rare now of days.
Thanks for feedback! If all sounds well I will grab mine Friday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought it was too big to go from S3 to XZ, but i got use to it, and I thought it was too big to go from XZ to G2 but it actually felt like its the same size as the 5in XZ phone, point is I have small hands and I really dont like the Samsung note so this is why I picked this phone. I like to text and drive with one hand what can I say, dont judge me....
Ckamc said:
How do you feel about the size of this phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not a former S3 owner, but I also struggle with the notification bar. Other than that I seriously love this phone comming from the Note 2.
It would be nice if LG added a hardware button shortcut for the notification bar. But until then, there is the possibility of using the software button. Some of the combinations have a notification bar short cut:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Unfortunately those are all the combinations.
Since i like to have the back button to the right, I find it easier to move the phone in my hand and pull down the notifications rather than reaching all the way across the screen to get the software button short cut.
Yes the note Series is too big for me. I have a coworker who has one and I just can't wrap mmyself to get one, plus price and audio specs appeal to me and the camera is nice. I love how small the moto X is but wow the camera is terrible as always with Motorola.
I really haven't looked back since I switched from the G3. 1)Raw speed- My S3 is insanely slow compared to the G2, not marginally slower. 2)Form factor bigger nicer screen in a not much bigger phone. 3)Not missing the side buttons on the S3, too easy to accidently hit. You will love the knock on feature. 4)Camera- Not even close OIS is nice.
I could keep going, but hopefully these items will help you make a decision.
This phone is quite difficult if not impossible to use with one hand (and I have large hands), for example compared to my former Nexus 4. However LG tried their best to facilitate this (for example by placing the menu on the bottom bar instead of on the left top corner - it seems that none of the reviewers realized why and just bashed LG), You can try to facilitate one-hand use by placing the icons within reach on the home screen, by placing shortcuts to most used web sites on the home screen, etc.
I came from an S3 and I love this phone. Knock On will be the savior for you when you get the phone. One handed use is no problem. I use it all the time and it's quite manageable. You'll love the refreshing screen technology coming from the S3 and the battery is loads better.
I suggest taking on for a test run and returning it if you aren't happy - but I assure you, you will be
Ckamc said:
How do you feel about the size of this phone? I have small hands where my thumb sits easy where the power button is on the S3 but struggle one handed to get the notification bar. Almost 100% sold on getting this one and noticed the dimension differences but would like some feed back from the rest of you.
Sure I can go into the store but those dam security things mess with figuring out how the phone would really feel. Of course finding a sales rep at VZW that is willing to let you hold a real one is rare now of days.
Thanks for feedback! If all sounds well I will grab mine Friday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was surprised but even though the screen is larger, the actual footprint is just about the same as the S3. I thought I would never get rid of my SGS3, but I love this phone.
Gnarfsan said:
I'm not a former S3 owner, but I also struggle with the notification bar. Other than that I seriously love this phone comming from the Note 2.
It would be nice if LG added a hardware button shortcut for the notification bar. But until then, there is the possibility of using the software button. Some of the combinations have a notification bar short cut:
Unfortunately those are all the combinations.
Since i like to have the back button to the right, I find it easier to move the phone in my hand and pull down the notifications rather than reaching all the way across the screen to get the software button short cut.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to say the same thing but you beat me to it.
LG thought ahead on this issue (bigger screen makes it harder to pull down the notification bar) so they implemented a software button that you can add to the navigation bar that can be used for expanding and collapsing the notification bar. At first I didn't think I would like the idea of adding more buttons to the nav bar, mainly because I am used to the stock android approach where you have the back button on the far left, home button in the middle and the menu/multi task button on the far right. But I find it really handy to have the button for the notification bar on the nav bar and have pretty much gotten used to having 4 soft buttons instead of the default 3.
I friggin love this phone lol i used all the galaxy series starting from s1 to s4., as well as note 1 and 2.
Personally, im not a big fan of hardware keys. ( home and volume)
After while, they would become somewhat loosened up and make squeeky sounds whenever i press on them on my samsung phones.
For the physical home buttons, it feels like ur double clicking the key after while.
G2 has hard keys on the back, but it feels like more rigid and solid than samsung phone's.
Sent from LG G2
Cst79 said:
This phone is quite difficult if not impossible to use with one hand (and I have large hands), for example compared to my former Nexus 4. However LG tried their best to facilitate this (for example by placing the menu on the bottom bar instead of on the left top corner - it seems that none of the reviewers realized why and just bashed LG), You can try to facilitate one-hand use by placing the icons within reach on the home screen, by placing shortcuts to most used web sites on the home screen, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dude my hand measure 8" from thumb to tip of middle finger...thats a small hand, I can hold it one hand easily...U must have really small hand or ****ty grip
get in the gym and do some deadlift bro...it'll help u grab all 150 gram of the phone...
so went and tried it at the store today... corporate stores are getting nice now with these "smart stores".
one handed texting isn't quite as easy... when reaching to left side. noticed I held the phone different so reaching notification isn't as bad.
wish corporate had a model that didn't have that dumb "smart cover" on it. took a bit away from giving a solid yes or no.... then I thought of my cousin who's thunderbolt doesn't even let them get online so I am going to pull the trigger on this tomorrow and root it Thursday lol *must have flash and restore all my text and dress up my phone the way I like it*
thanks for all the feed back, took it into consideration as I was playing with the phone. Wish Verizon didn't mess with the rocker on the back but still feels goodish.
I made the switch from my S3 to this phone because I actually wanted a bigger screen. I have pretty large hands so getting to the notification bar isn't difficult at all. What I do miss however is running Nova Launcher. I had the gesture setup so if I swiped down from anywhere on the screen it would pull the notification tray down. I don't use Nova on the G2 because it disables the knockOn feature, which I can't seem to live without now
Vertigo06 said:
I made the switch from my S3 to this phone because I actually wanted a bigger screen. I have pretty large hands so getting to the notification bar isn't difficult at all. What I do miss however is running Nova Launcher. I had the gesture setup so if I swiped down from anywhere on the screen it would pull the notification tray down. I don't use Nova on the G2 because it disables the knockOn feature, which I can't seem to live without now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still use Nova launcher for exactly that reason - swipe up opens my app drawer and swipe down expands my notifications bar. Here is a tidbit in case you didn't know... you can still use knock off as long as you tap on the notification bar. Also if you want full knock off you can assign the double tap feature in Nova to tasker and task it to turn the screen off. I just use the notification bar to tap off and am in heaven
dajmanjt said:
I still use Nova launcher for exactly that reason - swipe up opens my app drawer and swipe down expands my notifications bar. Here is a tidbit in case you didn't know... you can still use knock off as long as you tap on the notification bar. Also if you want full knock off you can assign the double tap feature in Nova to tasker and task it to turn the screen off. I just use the notification bar to tap off and am in heaven
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Thanks for that. Trying to tap the notification bar though is annoying for me. What's tasker? I don't have that an an option to assign to the double tap gesture.
Vertigo06 said:
I made the switch from my S3 to this phone because I actually wanted a bigger screen. I have pretty large hands so getting to the notification bar isn't difficult at all. What I do miss however is running Nova Launcher. I had the gesture setup so if I swiped down from anywhere on the screen it would pull the notification tray down. I don't use Nova on the G2 because it disables the knockOn feature, which I can't seem to live without now
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I use Nova Launcher too; I've always liked swiping down from anywhere on the screen to bring the Notification bar down.
Nova Launcher doesn't disable the Knock On feature, it disables the Knock Off feature.
But, there is a workaround. Just go the Play Store and download this app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.katecca.screenofflock
You can set it as a double tap gesture to make the phone go to sleep. It's working great for me.
bouchigo said:
I use Nova Launcher too; I've always liked swiping down from anywhere on the screen to bring the Notification bar down.
Nova Launcher doesn't disable the Knock On feature, it disables the Knock Off feature.
But, there is a workaround. Just go the Play Store and download this app:
You can set it as a double tap gesture to make the phone go to sleep. It's working great for me.
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That did it! Thank you very much. I just might make the switch back to Nova after all once I do some tweaking with my widgets.
Vertigo06 said:
That did it! Thank you very much. I just might make the switch back to Nova after all once I do some tweaking with my widgets.
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Cool! Glad it worked out for you. If you have Tasker, you can set it up there too if you prefer that option.
bouchigo said:
Cool! Glad it worked out for you. If you have Tasker, you can set it up there too if you prefer that option.
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That's what dajmanjt mentioned. I looked at Tasker a while ago but figured it wasn't for me. Now I'm starting to think it may not be a bad investment.
I have small, wide hands and i have no issues with one handed use. If you're on stock rom you can make the dialer flush to the left or right. Thumb keyboard has one handed operation available.
I either hold the phone a little higher up for one handed use or it lays near the end of my fingers. No issues. Adaptation is all that matters.

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