So I decided that even though I'll likely never actually use GPS on my prime, I wouldn't mind getting something to work. I'm not much for hacking hardware, so I decided to research a software solution.
All this requires is your prime, a free app from the market called 'Bluetooth GPS' by Googoo Android, an Android smartphone with good working GPS and another free app on it called 'GPS 2 Bluetooth'.
Basically it turns your phone into a bluetooth gps device, and the software on your prime emulates the gps hardware. My Samsung Galaxy S has decent GPS performance so I gave it a shot. It worked out fairly well, so I figured I'd post here to let others know. Since i always have my phone with me this'll do in a pinch if I want to use GPS on my prime. (My prime's GPS is essentially non-functional.)
EDIT: its been pointed out to me that my title was a tad misleading, so I updated. My thinking was that a lot of folks would have an Android smartphone already, so no additional hardware would actually be required. (smartphone gps quality notwithstanding of course)
This can also be accomplished with a bluetooth gps device as well.
Cheers!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Yeah some others have done the same.
Good luck with your thread though as it's going to detail into arguments of you shouldn't have to do this and it should work as is, which it should. In the meantime workarounds are good but just letting you know to many here they are not welcomed at all.
Ya why is it on the SGS2 forums everyone seems to be more... whats the word? Mature? And here everything turns into what i can only equate to a "my dad could beat up your dad" pissing contest?
Thanks for the post! i never actually thought about that before and will definately give it a go. I usually use my phone for GPS but having a tablet for GPS means bigger screen, easier to see....
Also, in before should work natively, etc.
rand4ll said:
Yeah some others have done the same.
Good luck with your thread though as it's going to detail into arguments of you shouldn't have to do this and it should work as is, which it should. In the meantime workarounds are good but just letting you know to many here they are not welcomed at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Considering GPS isn't an advertised feature on my prime, and it barely works to begin with, this is a perfectly workable solution.
Not that I see myself needing to use GPS on my prime, but I was sitting here bored watching xfiles on Netflix and figured I'd tinker.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
pileot said:
Ya why is it on the SGS2 forums everyone seems to be more... whats the word? Mature? And here everything turns into what i can only equate to a "my dad could beat up your dad" pissing contest?
Thanks for the post! i never actually thought about that before and will definately give it a go. I usually use my phone for GPS but having a tablet for GPS means bigger screen, easier to see....
Also, in before should work natively, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps I should have put "fix" in quotes...
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
m3t4lw01f said:
So I decided that even though I'll likely never actually use GPS on my prime, I wouldn't mind getting something to work. I'm not much for hacking hardware, so I decided to research a software solution.
All this requires is your prime, a free app from the market called 'Bluetooth GPS' by Googoo Android, an Android smartphone with good working GPS and another free app on it called 'GPS 2 Bluetooth'.
Basically it turns your phone into a bluetooth gps device, and the software on your prime emulates the gps hardware. My Samsung Galaxy S has decent GPS performance so I gave it a shot. It worked out fairly well, so I figured I'd post here to let others know. Since i always have my phone with me this'll do in a pinch if I want to use GPS on my prime. (My prime's GPS is essentially non-functional.)
Cheers!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sweet, dood! i didnt even think of this. i also prefer to use my phone, but this is one of those simple yet brilliant ideas. thanked
There are many many threads on BT GPS
Lock-N-Load said:
There are many many threads on BT GPS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I searched, but the search in Tapatalk doesn't just search the forum you're viewing. Laziness on my part I know.
Didn't see any hits in the TPrime forum on the first page of results, so I posted.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
m3t4lw01f said:
So I decided that even though I'll likely never actually use GPS on my prime, I wouldn't mind getting something to work. I'm not much for hacking hardware, so I decided to research a software solution.
All this requires is your prime, a free app from the market called 'Bluetooth GPS' by Googoo Android, an Android smartphone with good working GPS and another free app on it called 'GPS 2 Bluetooth'.
Basically it turns your phone into a bluetooth gps device, and the software on your prime emulates the gps hardware. My Samsung Galaxy S has decent GPS performance so I gave it a shot. It worked out fairly well, so I figured I'd post here to let others know. Since i always have my phone with me this'll do in a pinch if I want to use GPS on my prime. (My prime's GPS is essentially non-function
Thanks for taking your time to help others. This may be posted before, but I got yours to actually work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It works great. Already have it setup with my phone.
Edit: just did this right now. An example of it working. It is very cloudy out. Could've gotten a more accurate fix if I would've walked into yard but didn't feel like it..lol this is from being hooked up to my Atrix. Google earth still hit the exact spot though of where I'm at. Sitting on back porch. So it works. Wifi off. Just prime using GPS from phone thru BT.
{
"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"
}
---------- Post added at 09:13 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:34 AM ----------
Updated post with example of it working.
Thanks for the info great idea!
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
m3t4lw01f said:
So I decided that even though I'll likely never actually use GPS on my prime, I wouldn't mind getting something to work. I'm not much for hacking hardware, so I decided to research a software solution.
All this requires is your prime, a free app from the market called 'Bluetooth GPS' by Googoo Android, an Android smartphone with good working GPS and another free app on it called 'GPS 2 Bluetooth'.
Basically it turns your phone into a bluetooth gps device, and the software on your prime emulates the gps hardware. My Samsung Galaxy S has decent GPS performance so I gave it a shot. It worked out fairly well, so I figured I'd post here to let others know. Since i always have my phone with me this'll do in a pinch if I want to use GPS on my prime. (My prime's GPS is essentially non-functional.)
Cheers!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This title is misleading considering it requires extra device (h/w) for bluetooth GPS to function. And yea, it's been covered already in other GPS threads...
But I guess it does help to those who are new to this forum.
m3t4lw01f said:
Considering GPS isn't an advertised feature on my prime, and it barely works to begin with, this is a perfectly workable solution.
Not that I see myself needing to use GPS on my prime, but I was sitting here bored watching xfiles on Netflix and figured I'd tinker.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Barely? I'm yet to find a single satellite, last night was clear skyline i looked up and saw a satellite, my prime didn't. Hahaha.
I had thought of using my phone as the gps but the battery life isn't great with gps on.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium App
Didn't work for me though. Tried using with my T989(Tmobile GS2), and i always get software connection failed. Tried all the work arounds in the settings
shinzz said:
This title is misleading considering it requires extra device (h/w) for bluetooth GPS to function. And yea, it's been covered already in other GPS threads...
But I guess it does help to those who are new to this forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditto. I agrere with above.
For those who are just discovering this option (BT tethering to phone GPS) another option is a standalone BT GPS receiver as this also works well and has better battery life than your phone.
xsteven77x said:
Didn't work for me though. Tried using with my T989(Tmobile GS2), and i always get software connection failed. Tried all the work arounds in the settings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
:-( that's no good.
There are a couple of gps bluetooth apps in the market. Try:
https://market.android.com/details?id=com.meowsbox.btgps
It's a free trial that works for 10 minutes. If it works, the paid version is a couple bucks.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk
shinzz said:
This title is misleading considering it requires extra device (h/w) for bluetooth GPS to function. And yea, it's been covered already in other GPS threads...
But I guess it does help to those who are new to this forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was just thinking most people have a smartphone these days, but you're right, my title could be better...
Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk
doddsie said:
Barely? I'm yet to find a single satellite, last night was clear skyline i looked up and saw a satellite, my prime didn't. Hahaha.
I had thought of using my phone as the gps but the battery life isn't great with gps on.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My prime's GPS works one time and locks quickly, and the next time won't even see a single bird. Personally I think in my case it's an antenna connection issue.
I haven't actually been able to test lock while navigating though as the satellites it does see disappear as quickly as they show up. I suspect the backplate causes enough signal degradation coupled with poorly connected antenna and it is basically non-functional.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk
yhzhrm said:
Ditto. I agrere with above.
For those who are just discovering this option (BT tethering to phone GPS) another option is a standalone BT GPS receiver as this also works well and has better battery life than your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I updated the title. My thought was a lot of people have smartphones, so it wouldn't require a separate hardware purchase. (smartphone GPS quality notwithstanding)
Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk
Related
I hope S II is equipped with the most amazing gps chip.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA Premium App
ok good to know
......
Sent from my Captivate
since u opened this thread i might as well ask a question here....
has anyone seen a video or got any info about the S-II gps? is it same chit as galaxy s I gps? or did they do anything about the hardware bug?
no
Sent from my Computer
If you get your hands on one...
..would you mind posting an indepth analysis of the gps (navigation etc while driving in cities-country without agps support) in sgs2? Rest of the flaws in sgs were all fixed by xda and it was a brilliant phone. It saddens me to see people with prototypes fixating on lag etc which is easily fixable. If there is confirmation of working gps on this it will be well worth waiting even until summer. Almost tempted to pull the trigger for nexus s as soon as it lands with att friendly 3g as the ip is suffocating me
have you done any reaading.. agps does nothing for driving around.. it is only used to get an initial fix quicker.
lgkahn said:
have you done any reaading.. agps does nothing for driving around.. it is only used to get an initial fix quicker.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, my point is about general gps use. Lets forget agps and if someone can please confirm a working gps in sgs2 it will be the best phone ever.
Wish it has a powerful GPS chip and does not ruin the chip with athena design.
wait about a month and see some video reviews on the internet thats all you can do now
if sgs2 has a good gps system in it, im ready to sell my sgs for sgs2
Sources tell me that it uses miniature homing pigeons to calculate latitude and longitude. Lock on is a brisk 3 days. Still better than original galaxy s.
I was browsing xda general section and came across this thread. Its been proven to fix android devices with poor GPS reception and actually turn them into having great reception even on cloudy days, bad weather, etc.. For the people who've been testing different GPS files n stuff, this might be something you might want to try out. All you need is root n root explorer and just follow the directions exactly. THIS method supposedly one of the reasons alot of users turned their desire HD phone with piss poor GPS reception into the exact opposite. Some different devices been tested and rhetorically should work for all Android devices. ITS said to even make the signal even stronger. So I'd think it'd be worth a shot to those who GPS is important feature to them.
Don't say I ain't never think of y'all..lol.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1239713
Try it out n report back here on if it works or not. It might just work considering last update already improved GPS somewhat for some users.
Don't think this will work. Before ICS the Prime did use the gps.conf file, but with ICS it no longer uses it. There was already a thread modifying this file. Worked great in Honeycomb....no effect in ICS.
before on honeycomb, the Navigation app does not need wifi to use, but not it require wifi on ICS, is there a fix? I want to use gps outside without wifi
I had my hopes up for a minute.
Any way... I cannot test since my TP cannot be rooted. You know, no serial issue.
Good luck
The Law of the Crafty (It is my ™)
There is no gps.conf file in the /etc/ folder, or for that matter anywhere in the system directory itself.
I doubt it that this will work with ICS, or am I doing something wrong?
avinash60 said:
There is no gps.conf file in the /etc/ folder, or for that matter anywhere in the system directory itself.
I doubt it that this will work with ICS, or am I doing something wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read the previous replies, according to them that method does not work with Android 4.0.
With ICS it's now done by a .xml file
Sent from my NachoRootted Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
MarkF001 said:
With ICS it's now done by a .xml file
Sent from my NachoRootted Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK. I must've missed that part from the other threads.
MarkF001 said:
With ICS it's now done by a .xml file
Sent from my NachoRootted Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just read this thread and was not able to find this xml! Could you please share where you've read this?
Sent from my HTC Sensation using xda premium
THIS IS ALREADY INCLUDED IN THE PRIME ICYLICIOUS ROM LOCATED HERE
THIS IS NOT A FIX FOR FAULTY HARDWARE!
Attached at the bottom of this post is a CWM flashable file to help with the known GPS issues with our beloved Prime.
When creating my ROM, I noticed that Asus had left out the gps.conf file completely from the ROM, which exists in every other Android ROM I've come across.
In the zip file is a tweaked "gps.conf" and a tweaked "SuplRootCert".
Directions are as follows.
Download the zip file from the attachments in this post.
Boot into CWM
Clear Cache and Dalvik Cache before flashing (your first boot after clearing will be longer than normal)
Flash file in CWM, and reboot.
To calibrate your GPS download GPS STATUS, install and open. Go into settings, "Display and Tools"....tick "keep screen on". Go into "tools" click "compass calibration" and follow instructions. Once calibrated go outside in an area clear of obstructions. Make sure GPS is turned on in "settings". Start up GPS status and let it sit for a few minutes (if GPS icon does not start blinking, click on your quicksettings to bring up the quicksettings bar, then click on the GPS Status app screen). First time starting the GPS will take a few minutes to lock. After they're acquired, your GPS should lock quicker the next time you start your GPS.
These are my results from THIS THREAD following the directions listed above.
{
"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"
}
Please follow instructions for best results, and your mileage may vary.
Let me know how it's working for those that try it.
tyia
Video with NO Wifi Connection using the fix:
If you're not in the USA, you can find the files you need HERE, but you'll have to manually extract the files from the zip, and copy them into the appropriate directories!
Credit for the gps.conf file contained in this patch goes to:
crypted
Asus uses /etc/gps/gpsconfig.xml
you reference the android gps.conf, which i think was a android3.x default, and no longer comes with ICS.
with gps.conf you get a lock based on wifi+internet time, and not actual hardware gps, which the gps/gpsconfig.xml is for.
so gps.conf virtually just looks good, because you previously activated hardware GPS at your home with internet connected. This will not help if you have no wifi available, or if its an unknown AP.
gps.conf is just a false hope for hardware improvement, but is pure internet data based.
Dexter_nlb said:
Asus uses /etc/gps/gpsconfig.xml
you reference the android gps.conf, which i think was a android3.x default, and no longer comes with ICS.
with gps.conf you get a lock based on wifi+internet time, and not actual hardware gps, which the gps/gpsconfig.xml is for.
so gps.conf virtually just looks good, because you previously activated hardware GPS at your home with internet connected. This will not help if you have no wifi available, or if its an unknown AP.
gps.conf is just a false hope for hardware improvement, but is pure internet data based.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually Dexter gps.conf does still come in ICS. All the Acer builds still have it in there.
First time on stock without the fix, no lock, afterwards...10/13
EDIT: and both Asus and Acer use the gpsconfig.xml
Dexter_nlb said:
Asus uses /etc/gps/gpsconfig.xml
you reference the android gps.conf, which i think was a android3.x default, and no longer comes with ICS.
with gps.conf you get a lock based on wifi+internet time, and not actual hardware gps, which the gps/gpsconfig.xml is for.
so gps.conf virtually just looks good, because you previously activated hardware GPS at your home with internet connected. This will not help if you have no wifi available, or if its an unknown AP.
gps.conf is just a false hope for hardware improvement, but is pure internet data based.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Am curious. You took your TF Prime, outside, and actually tested this?
Because frankly, the fixes you posted, really didn't do a lot of improvement. Especially in the EU region.
Or is this theory?
Moscow Desire said:
Am curious. You took your TF Prime, outside, and actually tested this?
Or is this theory?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol MD these guys don't know you here, nor your Russian/American sense of humor....so a one sign answer for your post bro.....
Moscow Desire said:
Am curious. You took your TF Prime, outside, and actually tested this?
Because frankly, the fixes you posted, really didn't do a lot of improvement. Especially in the EU region.
Or is this theory?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i took mine to a train station with out wifi, and no lock in first 10mins
gps.conf is a quick lock based on wifi and known internet AP routers, so it can point out your coordinates, not a hardware gps fix.
but yes, it can help in wifi-lock if wifi is also achieved, i do not deny that from here, but its not fixing any asus hardware issue.
Dexter_nlb said:
i took mine to a train station with out wifi, and no lock in first 10mins
gps.conf is a quick lock based on wifi and known internet AP routers, so it can point out your coordinates, not a hardware gps fix.
but yes, it can help in wifi-lock if wifi is also achieved, i do not deny that from here, but its not fixing any asus hardware issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uploading a video right now. Never said it fixed any hardware issue Dexter, just that Asus had left out files that EVERYONE else is still using even in ICS, along with the cert file we've been using for a long time with the A500. Moscow said he thought you might have been the one to come up with the cert file...is that true? If so, my apologies for not giving you recognition.
Dexter_nlb said:
i took mine to a train station with out wifi, and no lock in first 10mins
gps.conf is a quick lock based on wifi and known internet AP routers, so it can point out your coordinates, not a hardware gps fix.
but yes, it can help in wifi-lock if wifi is also achieved, i do not deny that from here, but its not fixing any asus hardware issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check the video out in OP with NO WIFI CONNECTION!
ATGAdmin said:
Check the video out in OP with NO WIFI CONNECTION!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was this a cold start up??, did you wipe any cache and all that stuff, so nobody will second guess ya
I tested it myself with your rom and I did get a lock much quicker than the stock rom and Virtuous rom as well.
Ultraman666 said:
Was this a cold start up??, did you wipe any cache and all that stuff, so nobody will second guess ya
I tested it myself with your rom and I did get a lock much quicker than the stock rom and Virtuous rom as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually had to reboot just before the test. no wiping of anything, but of course that's already included in my ROM, so you might want to wipe dalvik, and cache if you're using it with another ROM, as that might help
EDIT: have modified the instructions, and thanks for pointing that out.
yeah the video looks official. those sat's locked quick as a mofo. well you know the next proof people going to want to see. actually driving and seeing if satellites can lock and hold the lock for navigation purposes like in Google earth or whatever.
seems legit. hopefully this is a viable fix and can be improved on further down the road.
demandarin said:
yeah the video looks official. those sat's locked quick as a mofo. well you know the next proof people going to want to see. actually driving and seeing if satellites can lock and hold the lock for navigation purposes like in Google earth or whatever.
seems legit. hopefully this is a viable fix and can be improved on further down the road.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like Dexter pointed out, this doesn't fix any hardware issues. All I did was put a tweaked version of the file that Asus should have put there in there, and added the cert file that most don't include.
Unfortunately this didn't help my prime (my hardware is probably beyond software rwpaies) but thanks for putting this out there!
Sent from my ROOTED Transformer Prime
W0rks better nowbut not normally, thanks for the help !!!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
PapaSmurf6768 said:
Unfortunately this didn't help my prime (my hardware is probably beyond software rwpaies) but thanks for putting this out there!
Sent from my ROOTED Transformer Prime
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got my Prime, do you think they've improved/changed the hardware since the first release?
I do know when I first got my OTA for ICS as soon as I booted up for the first time the GPS wouldn't lock to save it's life.
Just wondering out loud ...
kilian7th said:
W0rks better nowbut not normally, thanks for the help !!!
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
he he like the OP states...it's not a hardware fix, but it should help acquire locks faster than stock.
ATGAdmin said:
I actually had to reboot just before the test. no wiping of anything, but of course that's already included in my ROM, so you might want to wipe dalvik, and cache if you're using it with another ROM, as that might help
EDIT: have modified the instructions, and thanks for pointing that out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey glad to help, works great while driving never lost signal. Did get off course a little bit but not nearly as bad as before.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Ultraman666 said:
Hey glad to help, works great while driving never lost signal. Did get off course a little bit but not nearly as bad as before.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you're having success with it bro!
If this is 2 tweaked files why can't we download unzip & place the 2 files with Root Explorer & bypass the whole flashing process if your only rooted? See any issues with this?
If not what are the directory paths for each?
Lock-N-Load said:
If this is 2 tweaked files why can't we download unzip & place the 2 files with Root Explorer & bypass the whole flashing process if your only rooted? See any issues with this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this should work as well.
Hey Guys, just thought I would pass this info along that I found really interesting. I have a friend who recently purchased the Archos G9 tablet, which came with Honeycomb. His Wifi/GPS worked great during this time, but after updating to ICS, his wifi signal is considerably weaker,(even drops connections) and he can no longer get a GPS lock! Also, it seems to be a widespread problem for the recently released Archos devices. Before ICS, they had no wifi/GPS issues, but right after the update, numerous owners are reporting that they can no longer get a GPS lock, or they may only pick up one satellite even when outdoors, but lose the signals as soon as they are in motion. Now this seems to be one hell of a coincidence don't you think?? Can anyone confirm that GPS and wifi was better for them before updating to ICS?? I also attached the forum link for you guys as proof of the ICS update issue. Apparently, Archos is working with Google to determine the cause of the GPS/wifi issues since the update. Now I am not saying that ICS is the root cause of our issues, but it is possible that it is compounding the problem with the metal backed plate on our Primes. It's well known that Asus installed two wifi chips to compensate for the metal backing, but what if the ICS code is also hindering on the wifi/gps performance??
http://forum.archosfans.com/viewtopic.php?f=84&t=63669&start=140
Interesting read for sure. Well hopefully the big surprise from Asus is a new firmware with most of the issues fixed. Can't wait to see what they have instore for us. Then can't wait for diamond to integrate the good parts into his rom so I can flash it =)
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
....ring......ring........Hello.......um hold on...... GAAAAAARRRRRYYY! GARY! YOU HAVE A PHONE CALL.......[who is it ma!].....SOMEONE NAMED ARCHOS????.......
My Nexus One on unofficial ICS has the same wifi reception as on gingerbread. This being said, it also uses almost the same kernel and the same proprietary drivers as on gingerbread. My point is : ICS is not the problem. IF there is a software issue that can somehow be fixed, it should/must be done in the kernel/driver area.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA
Well.. I figure I have to reply to that post...
I have a Archos 80 G9 that I bought after reading too many horry stories on XDA, my heart was really set on a ATP but I figured that I would get a tablet that would a) be upgaded to ICS and b) I wouldn't mind giving way once the dust had settled and bugs have been ironed out.
I have been following these threads since the ATP hit the shelve, but they have not reached the ME where I live and after reading here there was now way I would buy an import without warranty support... So as I say I bought a cheapo Archos just to get me by.
I can now confirm the OP's statement. the Wifi problem is in ICS (can't say that about the GPS as I've not tested). I've read about you guys opening the boxx and from the start upgrading from HC to ICS so you've never seen the ATP running on HC. With the Archcos I had a good 2 month running on HC before the ICS upgrade so I can sure see the difference. The main problem I faced with the Archos on HC was anything using video - Youtube & Skype come to mind off the top of my head - they were both un-useable, but I figured you get what you pay for and let's see what the ICS upgrade brings.
Low and behold, after ICS, my WiFi is crap in comparision to before, I can't put my fingure on the issiue, but it's sure weaker connection, or doesn't connect automatically, or just won't allow me to load a web page! In addition, the touch screen is way less responsive in that I'm having topoke and poke again at the screen to make anything happen - that may be because the WiFi is crap so I don't have internet access, or it may be a touch screen issue. Either way it feels like I've jumped out of the pan and into the fire - no video before (now that is better), but I never know when I have internet access.
Well spotted OP... if there is anything I can test from here, let me know OK
DelboyG
benefit14snake said:
Interesting read for sure. Well hopefully the big surprise from Asus is a new firmware with most of the issues fixed. Can't wait to see what they have instore for us. Then can't wait for diamond to integrate the good parts into his rom so I can flash it =)
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly what I'm thinking. The new firmware fix could possibly address the WiFi issues which seems to be also caused by ICS. Maybe this is why Asus are returning RMA's with the same issues, could be that their dual WiFi components are working as intended, but ics is causing signal issues! This will be great news if the problem can be solved through a firmware update
Well if the wifi gets fixed on this tablet I will have zero complaints what so ever. GPS bothers me, but not much. Ill probably try to fix the small light bleed I have.
......and the thread blows up with speculation.... lol
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
I had GPS problems on the Prime before ICS. While there could be something in ICS that hinders GPS reception, I think it's well established that there are hardware problems with the Prime with respect to GPS and wifi reception.
My wifi seemed to be the same on HC as ICS; I haven't had any problems before or after upgrading.
DelboyG said:
Well.. I figure I have to reply to that post...
I have a Archos 80 G9 that I bought after reading too many horry stories on XDA, my heart was really set on a ATP but I figured that I would get a tablet that would a) be upgaded to ICS and b) I wouldn't mind giving way once the dust had settled and bugs have been ironed out.
I have been following these threads since the ATP hit the shelve, but they have not reached the ME where I live and after reading here there was now way I would buy an import without warranty support... So as I say I bought a cheapo Archos just to get me by.
I can now confirm the OP's statement. the Wifi problem is in ICS (can't say that about the GPS as I've not tested). I've read about you guys opening the boxx and from the start upgrading from HC to ICS so you've never seen the ATP running on HC. With the Archcos I had a good 2 month running on HC before the ICS upgrade so I can sure see the difference. The main problem I faced with the Archos on HC was anything using video - Youtube & Skype come to mind off the top of my head - they were both un-useable, but I figured you get what you pay for and let's see what the ICS upgrade brings.
Low and behold, after ICS, my WiFi is crap in comparision to before, I can't put my fingure on the issiue, but it's sure weaker connection, or doesn't connect automatically, or just won't allow me to load a web page! In addition, the touch screen is way less responsive in that I'm having topoke and poke again at the screen to make anything happen - that may be because the WiFi is crap so I don't have internet access, or it may be a touch screen issue. Either way it feels like I've jumped out of the pan and into the fire - no video before (now that is better), but I never know when I have internet access.
Well spotted OP... if there is anything I can test from here, let me know OK
DelboyG
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Click to collapse
I'm waiting for my friend to stop by to do a wifi comparison test with his archos. Wish there was a way to make thus topic a sticky.
Not saying the wifi problems couldnt be software related, but didnt some guy already take apart his prime and confirm an obvious wifi design flaw?
scottrod said:
Not saying the wifi problems couldnt be software related, but didnt some guy already take apart his prime and confirm an obvious wifi design flaw?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, it's a myth. It is always a "s/w" problem... You should know that by now if you read this forum.
Ok, GPS issued is confirmed on the Archos G9 after my friend updated to ics. He didn't have the GPS test app prior ics, but on honeycomb he had no issues getting a GPS signal in seconds, an he confirmed that it worked in his car while driving to an from work. Now using the GPS test after updating to ics, it takes him in average of 2 minutes to pick up 3 satellites while outside, but he loses his signal when driving. Also, he has freezing issues when browsing an random reboots at least once a day. He's coming to my home now to do a wifi speed comparison, but he stated that he can no longer watch netflix when he is in his bedroom, while his router is in the living room(seperated by two walls). This to me is just one heck of a coincidence.
My tf101s wifi got really bad after ics update. Range was shorter, and disconnects.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
I can see ICS maybe affecting wifi. as far as GPS, we know the components of the deadly cocktail already. software is part of it but doubt it bears more weight than design issues on some units. I do believe wifi can be tweaked or optimized even more so. I get good wifi reception n all but anything could be made better.
we do have an update to .16 which is due anyday now. I would've thought we would've gotten it already. maybe tonight or tomorrow. still awaiting the great prime news also. maybe they will announce 5 million units sold in 3 months..lol
Cernunnoz said:
My tf101s wifi got really bad after ics update. Range was shorter, and disconnects.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
I read about wifi problems on original transformer due to ICS as well. Heard asus pushed out an update to ty and fix it yesterday.
[QUOTQUOTE=shinzz;23629090]Nah, it's a myth. It is always a "s/w" problem... You should know that by now if you read this forum.[/QUOTE]
Obviously your joking right? I opened mine and can confirm it's hard ware. Attaching one piece of wire to the wireless connection gives nearly double the wifi performance for me.
I can support the GPS theory for sure... My GPS stopped working completely as soon as I upgraded my Prime to ICS. While still under HC, I could get a lock on 10-12 satellites ... though it took way longer than it should (like a few minutes). Haven't had much trouble with my wi-fi, so cannot tell if it degraded with ICS, or not.
So ICS is still very new and has still bugs in it. I dont see where this is any new information Have some patience. My prime (can only speak for me) is very usable right now and i know that it will only get better over time as software improves. This was the case on all my android devices and will be true for the prime as well.
The difference is that ICS was quite the step for android, a lot of visual changes and tweaks/improvements. So i think we will see a big improvement overall if something like Android 4.1 comes out.
But as i wanted to say this is not really news to me^^ I expected something like ICS to be somewhat buggy I mean look at iOS. 5.0 had the battery bug which is being fixed now with 5.1. This is half a year after the release of ios 5.
Ok, lets pull up a couple of statements real quick. This is a Archos tablet that is having Wi-fi problems after ICS. How does this relate to android? I understand that this is based on the idea of ICS doing this, but they are different companies. Asus makes tablets for their tablets and the Archos tablets is made for their company. The company making Archos could have made a mistake when altering it to make it compatible for the Archos tablet. Also it has been proven that the metal backplate on the prime blocks off the wi-fi signal dramatically. ICS on the prime is already covered as it is. Think about it, why would they make the TF700 with the specific backplate if they knew that this was a software problem?
royredman said:
Ok, lets pull up a couple of statements real quick. This is a Archos tablet that is having Wi-fi problems after ICS. How does this relate to android? I understand that this is based on the idea of ICS doing this, but they are different companies. Asus makes tablets for their tablets and the Archos tablets is made for their company. The company making Archos could have made a mistake when altering it to make it compatible for the Archos tablet. Also it has been proven that the metal backplate on the prime blocks off the wi-fi signal dramatically. ICS on the prime is already covered as it is. Think about it, why would they make the TF700 with the specific backplate if they knew that this was a software problem?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are you talking about?? Both tablets are running ICS, both have wifi/gps issues after updating.. I never said that ICS was the cause only... I am saying that it MAY contribute.. Could be an code issue within ICS that doesn't play well with wifi, which is only amplified by the Primes metal backing.
I and others will confirm that wifi an gps was fine for the Archos tablets before updating to ICS. People are also reporting browser crashes, freezes etc. So yes ICS is still a young os an could be added to at least the wifi issue
Hi everyone,
I am a long time iPad user, but on the other hand using android phones from quite a while (samsung sg1, sg 2, sgn now).
After seeing the new iPad I am really thinking about getting the transformer prime.
The big plus is the keyboard dock. The big minus is the lack of 3g but I may use my galaxy note as a wireless hot spot.
The only thing which is keeping me from buying is the long thread from the general section of this forum which contains great number of horror stories related to the transformer prime after the ics update.
The retailer from whom I want to buy has the prime with honeycomb on it.
Is it better to keep the old os? Are the ics bugs really wide spread.
Any help is welcome.
Well I got mine 4 days ago and it had the original OS on it played a little and switched to ics and haven't had any problems maybe I just got lucky who knows I think alot it's hype so far so good.
my Prime arrived with ICS already installed on it. So far the only significant issues I've encountered are wifi range and GPS, which I already knew about from reading other reviews. Since most of what I'm planning on doing with my Prime is off-line stuff anyway, I'm not terribly bothered.
Wrong post ,
my bad
ICS working great on Prime. ill never go back to honeycomb. I've only seen positive additions with ICS. too many positives outweigh the little issues some may have with it. plus issues not as wide spread as it may seems.
My Prime has been perfect! Only a week of use though.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201
I have problems with GPS... but tbh I don't know what anyone uses the GPS for lol.
My wifi range isn't as strong my iPhone 4 and game consoles. But it's also not noticeable, if I didn't look at the WiFi signal strength I wouldn't even know I wasn't at 100%.
Basically, WiFi strength weakens but it hasn't hindered the performance from what I've been able to tell. I still stream music, or watch youtube clips like it's nothing.
To be honest, I haven't had near the problems that people are talking about here... well not here but in the general thread. I had a few minor.. very minor issues with wifi using Skype but I think I solved that by changing channels on the router... As for signal strength, I am not sure what people think it should do, mine is on par or better then my sgs1. No light bleed or anything like that either, gps, the only thing I found was there were a couple of files missing gps.conf for one... but once I placed that in the proper folder it seems to work fine (not that I'll use it) In short... no regrets.....plus the thing is fast too
Also.... if your away from a hotspot and want to use 3g/4g tether it to your phone via bluetooth, work good.
As stated by Asus Rep Gary Key on this forum
1. As to various rumors or threads about every unit having a problem, the numbers indicate otherwise as evidenced in the CNET article and an upcoming followup. While not dismissing there have been some problems, the return/repair rates are no greater than other competing products based on current data and are actually lower than several. I am not going to defend us 100% as like with all manufacturers we have areas of improvement.
2. That being said, I want to discuss a certain population of users who complain about multiple unit problems or seem to have every problem that is discussed in a forum.
a. Of these problem repeat users, around 71% (varies on a monthly basis) never responded to direct communication attempts.
b. Of the remaining users (around 30%), we directly assisted 9% of these users and confirmed actual unit problems. Of the remaining 20% or so, we could not verify all of the problems reported (multiple units, service, returns). However, I would like to give two examples that generally mimic a lot of this 20% contact.
And by poll of XDA member
80% are liking their device
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1491431
Topic of user with positive experience
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1409910
I think the recent update 9.4.2.15 has fixed a lot of the random reboot problems that came with ICS. I am saying this because I noticed a lot less threads about the issue and I personally haven't had ICS crash since I've updated (a month ago).
You can also use Bluetooth to tether 3g to your prime. Works great since it uses less battery on your phone and even though it is slower I tend not to notice since using 3g means I am on the go. Also, there is a handy app in the App/Theme forum that will auto connect the Bluetooth internet.
I had some force-closes after the ICS Update. As mentioned several times in the forums a factory-reset just after I updated to ics helped alot.
No major problems so far. I think one force-close in the last 2 weeks. And this app has problems on other devices as well.
Wifi is not great, but definitely not an issue. Since I don't use GPS at all, I would buy it again.
only problems ive had were a couple of tablets had lcd mura (bright spots) current one is fine. bit of light bleed but nothing too bad. im happy with it
Nice to hear that the issues are not serious.
I just have one question...
How bad the wifi signal is compared to the Ipad?
Is it necessary to use a second wireless router or repeater?
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
silvehosszu said:
Nice to hear that the issues are not serious.
I just have one question...
How bad the wifi signal is compared to the Ipad?
Is it necessary to use a second wireless router or repeater?
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
Ive not had any issues, router is downstairs
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
oh the wifi issue is as real as it sounds. I've been able to fix it to a extent by using various suggestions in this forum like using a router different than linksys, changed wifi channel to reduce interference, repeater to increase strength and the newest keeping the gps on which somehow seems to increase wifi link speed (need to verify, yet)
GPS has never worked even once, am yet to try the tether using my phone, although this doesnt bother me much. Bluetooth gives me issues at time with it not connecting to my phone or my laptop and am yet to try anything to fix it.
screen flicker issue is there when clicking recent apps, again seems to have reduced using suggestion on this forum, namely booting into download mode
(vol key down + power and then vol up) and then rebooting. some problems still exists in youtube app though.
Random reboots have anyway been not a problem for me with a very low count.
More or less I've been able to fix most issues with simple steps and am very satisfied with my prime. a lot more than I can ever imagine with an ipad.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
After doing my research i did the jump and bought the transformer prime. The wireless issue is not as severe as I thought, the primes wireless is almost as good as the iPads.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
I don't think you will regret it. I bought mine 6 weeks ago, stayed well away from rooting actions, and it has updated itself faultlessly. WiFi is not a problem, though the "pinch fix" did improve reception. I can use my HTC Desire for GPS, over-air data when away from my (or anyone elses router), and just love the screen and keyboard.
Hope yo enjoy it.
FG
Excuse my ignorance but what is that `pinch fix` ?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
silvehosszu said:
Hi everyone,
I am a long time iPad user, but on the other hand using android phones from quite a while (samsung sg1, sg 2, sgn now).
After seeing the new iPad I am really thinking about getting the transformer prime.
The big plus is the keyboard dock. The big minus is the lack of 3g but I may use my galaxy note as a wireless hot spot.
The only thing which is keeping me from buying is the long thread from the general section of this forum which contains great number of horror stories related to the transformer prime after the ics update.
The retailer from whom I want to buy has the prime with honeycomb on it.
Is it better to keep the old os? Are the ics bugs really wide spread.
Any help is welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Less than 1% of TFP have issues according to Gary Key with Asus.
silvehosszu said:
After doing my research i did the jump and bought the transformer prime. The wireless issue is not as severe as I thought, the primes wireless is almost as good as the iPads.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congrats. enjoy your new device
silvehosszu said:
Excuse my ignorance but what is that `pinch fix` ?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
its nothing really. some report fluctuating signal strength if tablet is pinched in area antennae would be. I'd say don't worry yourself with it if you already getting good wireless reception. its just more of an observation thing on the pinch.