I was thinking of sending the fire back for the flyer/view, the HTC has a leg up on almost everything, however I am stuck on a few key features that the fire has, and I would like to know if there is some sort of port, or if HTC built these things in..
The fire has updates for it every few months so far, so its live, since the HTC flyer/view have been cancled, will they get updates??
The flyer/view have the "book sharing" built in, this is a nice book club feature that I like.
and the amazon silk browser has the reader view, BIG winner in my book... any way to do this on the HTC device?
I just want a handy device to read and watch some shows, prime is no big deal since they dont have what I want to see anyway, and I have Netflix anyway... I should also mention that I have a Galaxy note, so I dont "NEED" cameras or anything like that. I just need a nice responsive 7" tablet for reading/web/youtube/Netflix with a bright clear screen..
what do you guys think?
I'm not all that familiar with the other features you mentioned (book share and reader view), but as far as updates, I've found myself not needing or particularly wanting firmware updates for my Flyer. This is coming from a person who constantly changes the ROM on his HTC Desire Z phone to get better performance and features. I have never even bothered to put a custom ROM on my Flyer, the stock ROM just runs so smoothly, and has all the features I need.
I did do the upgrade from Gingerbread to Honeycomb. It added some more tablet-friendly interface layout, bit more eye candy, and much better pen support. It runs just as smoothly as GB. Really more of a personal preference, either GB or HC run rather nicely (fast and smooth).
I haven't found myself wanting anymore out of my Flyer. The performance is great, and I haven't had any significant bugs to speak of. There does seem to be a issue with GPS maintaining lock in HC (but I never use my Flyer for navigation). But of course, that isn't even an option on the Fire, anyway.
I haven't personally had a chance to compare side-by-side. But I believe the Flyer is more responsive (clock speed matters more than dual cores, for most tasks) and has a better screen than the Flyer. What you do get in the Flyer (in addition to the Prime-specific features you mentioned) is probably better support from 3rd party accessory manufacturers, as the Fire already has a healthy customer base, while the Flyer really doesn't have much to speak of.
Thremix said:
I was thinking of sending the fire back for the flyer/view, the HTC has a leg up on almost everything, however I am stuck on a few key features that the fire has, and I would like to know if there is some sort of port, or if HTC built these things in..
The fire has updates for it every few months so far, so its live, since the HTC flyer/view have been cancled, will they get updates??
The flyer/view have the "book sharing" built in, this is a nice book club feature that I like.
and the amazon silk browser has the reader view, BIG winner in my book... any way to do this on the HTC device?
I just want a handy device to read and watch some shows, prime is no big deal since they dont have what I want to see anyway, and I have Netflix anyway... I should also mention that I have a Galaxy note, so I dont "NEED" cameras or anything like that. I just need a nice responsive 7" tablet for reading/web/youtube/Netflix with a bright clear screen..
what do you guys think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The updates you're talking about with the Fire are overwhelmingly updates to Amazon's proprietary software, not the underlying version of Android. The updates the Flyer/View have received included proprietary changes, but they're accompanied with updates to the Android software. So it's difficult to compare the updates of the two since the nature of each are different. That said, the Flyer/View already has far more functionality than the Fire ever will do to its hardware and access to the Google Play Store (still sounds weird to say that instead of Android Market). No amount of updates to the Fire will ever get it to level of things the Flyer/View can do. The Flyer/View may or may not see any more official updates (no one here knows for sure), but it's already on a higher level than the Fire as it currently stands.
I assume with book sharing you're referring to the lending of Kindle books. You cannot do this with the View/Flyer with Kindle books you have purchased from Amazon. It's a feature exclusive to Kindle devices. You can install the Kindle app on the View/Flyer and have full access to all of your books, but you can't lend/borrow and you don't have access to Prime library.
By "reader view," are you implying that the webpage is reformatted to allow you to more easily read the text? If so, there are ways of doing this on the Flyer/View. It may require a different browser or app, but it can be done.
Overall, the Flyer/View is a more well-rounded device than the Fire from a hardware point of view with GPS, cameras, and optional cellular connectivity (depending on the model). The quality of the screens are both good, and both devices feel great in the hand (although I like the feel of my View better). The View is better from an Android point of view with full access to the suite of Google Apps (Gmail, Voice, Maps, Play Store, etc.), something that the Fire does not have (quite possibly the biggest software-related point in my opinion). On the other hand, if you're heavily invested in the Amazon ecosystem, and your major concern is reading (including the lending/borrowing of books and accessing the Prime library), the Fire offers more options direct from Amazon. If you're into custom ROMs, the Fire also has a much bigger developer community with a lot more support. But as far as an all-around device for "reading/web/youtube/Netflix with a bright clear screen," the Flyer/View is by far the better device in my opinion.
For me, the answer was simple - a regular Kindle e-ink reader for books (including lending/borrowing and the Prime library) since it's far easier on the eyes anyway and can be read outside, and the View for everything else (plus I can read almost all of my Kindle stuff on the View if I don't have my Kindle close by). The incredibly low prices on both devices make owning both a viable option for many that want the best of both worlds.
"I should also mention that I have a Galaxy note, so I dont "NEED" cameras or anything like that. I just need a nice responsive 7" tablet for reading/web/youtube/Netflix with a bright clear screen.."
The screen itself should be about the same between the Fire and the View.
I was getting ready to get a Fire, then considered a Nook Tablet, then a View. Here are the main advantages of the View over the Fire:
-View has physical volume up/down buttons
-View has a microphone
-View has 2 cameras.
-View has 32GB of storage and a micro-SD slot for up to 32GB more.
-View has GPS
That's off the top of my head.
If the Fire does a good job for you with books and videos, you won't really gain anything by switching to the View.
If you want a tablet that is much more capable and runs a stock Android go for the View.
dan1101 said:
-View has 32GB of storage and a micro-SD slot for up to 32GB more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A major point that I overlooked in my post. As for the Flyer, it comes in both 16GB and 32GB varieties with the 16GB version being far more prevalent in my experience. Both have expandable storage as well.
"I assume with book sharing you're referring to the lending of Kindle books. You cannot do this with the View/Flyer with Kindle books you have purchased from Amazon. It's a feature exclusive to Kindle devices. You can install the Kindle app on the View/Flyer and have full access to all of your books, but you can't lend/borrow and you don't have access to Prime library."
No thats book lending.
When you're reading a book, there is a little bubble at the bottom. When you press on the bubble, it takes you into a conversation list with other people that are reading the book. Much like a book club. I think that is a neat feature.
I think the kobo at the something like this no?
Thremix said:
When you're reading a book, there is a little bubble at the bottom. When you press on the bubble, it takes you into a conversation list with other people that are reading the book. Much like a book club. I think that is a neat feature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, there isn't an option for this in the Android Kindle app that I see.
That's not a huge deal...
So the htc screen wont be much better? I know the duo core thing is not a big deal, the hitch runs fine from the videos I've seen. Any word on ICS? One last thing.. can you take pretty good notes on the flyer? Is it like the galaxy note?
Thremix said:
That's not a huge deal...
So the htc screen wont be much better? I know the duo core thing is not a big deal, the hitch runs fine from the videos I've seen. Any word on ICS? One last thing.. can you take pretty good notes on the flyer? Is it like the galaxy note?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen difference will be marginal at best.
No official word on ICS.
Yes, the Flyer/View use the same basic technology (albeit from different companies I believe, meaning the Note stylus won't work with the Flyer/View), so note taking is very similar if you have the Scribe. I also had a Note for awhile and found the View to be more precise in that regard.
Wow really.. I think my note is pretty accurate, so the flyer must be nice! I'm going to best buy in hopes of finding a demo.. or maybe sprint..
Thremix said:
Wow really.. I think my note is pretty accurate, so the flyer must be nice! I'm going to best buy in hopes of finding a demo.. or maybe sprint..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They've been discontinued at both Best Buy and Sprint I believe, so it might be difficult to track down any display models in a store, especially that have a Scribe sitting there to use with it.
I've had other people contend that the Note is more precise, but I found the View to be when I had both devices. So chances are, that really means that they're both pretty similar when it comes to accuracy.
bsweetness said:
No, there isn't an option for this in the Android Kindle app that I see.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may not be in the Kindle app, but it is there in the stock HTC Reader app which I understand is powered by Kobo. I have not used it because all of my ebooks are from non-drm epub sources so while the HTC Reader displays those books perfectly, it does not allow me to use the share option.
Anyway to read the kindle books on the kobo app? Reason I ask is that kobo has a nicer UI.
I did find a demo at the sprint store, I liked it and found the screen to he a bit more vivid, I wish I would have had the time to really check out, unfortunately we were on a way to a movie, so I had maybe 30seconds with it. Can anyone cement on the speakers, some of you have had the fire so maybe you can give me an idea of the sound quality of the htc vs the fire? I think I'm gonna buy the HTC, I just need a little push lol..
All of you have been a great help.
Just to throw my thoughts in:
I am a college student and I have an internship in an office. I bought the flyer at the beginning of this semester to take notes and other various things at my job. I have used it for a few months now, and I can say that I don't even carry a notebook any more. It has also fully replaced my netbook. I have read several books for class on it, and it has worked well as far as that goes. The speakers are pretty good quality, I find them acceptable for Skype calls and YouTube videos.
Sent from my mobile typewriter with tapatalk
the flyer/view has basically one of the greatest displays for reading for its highest pixel density of android tablets (ipad 3 has a much higher resolution tho), and great color production for things other than reading. i love my htc flyer, and i would recommend it, the reading experience is still fantastic even if it lacks fire features, because htc adds their own (such as book sharing, as you mentioned)!
Similar Dilemma
I'm in the same boat, torn between fire and flyer.
For me the flyer was an extra $40, so is $40 worth:
bluetooth
2 cameras
512meg extra ram
8gb extra storage
microSD card reader
a microphone...
Normally I say, yes, of course it is, however of those, the only one that actually matters to me... might be the microSD card reader and extra storage, seeing as the fire only ships with 8GB.
Why are those other features not important to me? Because wherever I have my tablet to use, I will 100% of that time have my iPhone 4 in my pocket which has 2 cameras, 32GB storage, a microphone, etc. If I want to take a picture, i'll certainly use my phone before my tablet, same with skip or voice notes, or voip for that matter. If I had a stupid phone, of course I go with the flyer, but with an iPhone, maybe I stick with the kindle fire...
Another consideration is rom updates, yes flyer is popular, however each rom needs to support all that extra hardware, and often one piece either uses an older/supported version of android, or one piece just doesn't work. For example bluetooth for voip, or the hardware buttons of the flyer. With the Kindle it doesn't have much extra hardware, so not much else to support, therefore the rom updates that come out are more "clean" in my view.
I'm forcing myself to use both for a few days this week and make up my mind. The stylus could turn the tide to the flyer though...
We'll see...
paultman said:
I'm in the same boat, torn between fire and flyer.
For me the flyer was an extra $40, so is $40 worth:
bluetooth
2 cameras
512meg extra ram
8gb extra storage
microSD card reader
a microphone...
Normally I say, yes, of course it is, however of those, the only one that actually matters to me... might be the microSD card reader and extra storage, seeing as the fire only ships with 8GB.
Why are those other features not important to me? Because wherever I have my tablet to use, I will 100% of that time have my iPhone 4 in my pocket which has 2 cameras, 32GB storage, a microphone, etc. If I want to take a picture, i'll certainly use my phone before my tablet, same with skip or voice notes, or voip for that matter. If I had a stupid phone, of course I go with the flyer, but with an iPhone, maybe I stick with the kindle fire...
Another consideration is rom updates, yes flyer is popular, however each rom needs to support all that extra hardware, and often one piece either uses an older/supported version of android, or one piece just doesn't work. For example bluetooth for voip, or the hardware buttons of the flyer. With the Kindle it doesn't have much extra hardware, so not much else to support, therefore the rom updates that come out are more "clean" in my view.
I'm forcing myself to use both for a few days this week and make up my mind. The stylus could turn the tide to the flyer though...
We'll see...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are 100% in my boat! Lol the flyer will cost me about $50 more, and you and I have the same train of thought. I have my galaxy note for EVERYTHING, and with me, my gnote is almost as big as the tablets of topic! Lol
I found the speed to be more or less on par with these two tablets. And the htc reader app is a joke, the fire has a better "reading" atmosphere with the ability to change font and word spacing, and the silk browser reader view is a BIG home run.. I still can't shake the feeling I should just get the flyer.. lol
Thremix said:
Anyway to read the kindle books on the kobo app? Reason I ask is that kobo has a nicer UI.
I did find a demo at the sprint store, I liked it and found the screen to he a bit more vivid, I wish I would have had the time to really check out, unfortunately we were on a way to a movie, so I had maybe 30seconds with it. Can anyone cement on the speakers, some of you have had the fire so maybe you can give me an idea of the sound quality of the htc vs the fire? I think I'm gonna buy the HTC, I just need a little push lol..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Kindle books are DRM-protected, so unless you want to find a way around that (something we can't discuss on these forums), you have to use the Kindle app for Kindle books.
The Flyer/View have pretty darn good speakers for the size of the tablet. I can't think of a time when I wasn't more than satisfied with them.
Thremix said:
And the htc reader app is a joke, the fire has a better "reading" atmosphere with the ability to change font and word spacing, and the silk browser reader view is a BIG home run.. I still can't shake the feeling I should just get the flyer.. lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't have to use the HTC Reader app (although you can adjust the size of the text in the app). There are several different e-reader apps in the Play store that let you adjust font and spacing (and I know the Kindle app will at least let you adjust the font). But the biggest advantage to using the HTC Reader is that it has full integration with the Scribe pen. On Honeycomb, you can use the Scribe with any app, but you'll only be able to use some of the advanced functions of the pen with apps that are optimized for it.
You're definitely right about the Fire having a better "reading atmosphere" though. That's its primary purpose (along with watching video), so Amazon has put a lot of significant thought and design into it. The Flyer/View is very much a multi-purpose device, with the focus spread throughout the device instead of on just a couple areas like the Fire. That's why for people who want a device that is primarily going to be a reading/video device with most of the content coming from Amazon, the Fire is definitely a great option. But for those who want more than that, the Flyer/View offers many more options.
I just won a like new htc flyer with case and scrib pen for $212 shipped..
Dude, demonoid has all the books u need, the flyer reader app supports the pens and its unbeatable bybany other tablet, om taking notes all the tome, signing documents etc
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using XDA Premium App
Related
What do you think between the Xoom and the Flyer?
One thing that is actually putting me off the Flyer is the 7" instead of 10"
I am thinking I want a wifi only one for home use - but for home use only I'd want something a little bigger than an oversized phone... any thoughts?
http://www.digitalversus.com/four-tablets-compared-ipad-galaxy-tab-10-1-flyer-xoom-news-18059.html
Since you'll be using it primarily at home, and you didn't mention the need for stylus input, I'd say the XOOM is probably a better choice for you.
Personally, however, I'd get the Flyer for its portability and inking capability.
I don't really have a need for a stylus - I think it's a brilliant addition - and if I had kids (also ones that could be trusted on a tablet ) I think it would be good so they could draw pics and stuff without any mess
Is there any mention of a keyboard add-on for the Flyer (wireless) I think I saw one for Xoom which'd be more of an interest for me as I'd be thinking of replacing my primary laptop with a tablet for most day-to-day stuff if it works well
Of course ultimately it all depends on the price of a wifi-only edition!
I think you summed up the screen size issue pretty well:
- 10" is home use. I have an iPad and it works really well for that. It is really something you can use all around the house with ease and enable you to check the internet in a nice chair, on the coach, etc. But I would not take the iPad in public transport - on a plane yes - and it is not a laptop replacement as some tend to pretend it is - maybe in 3-4 years when it'll be powerful enough and the resolution decent (but then again a mouse OS is much better for working)...
- 7" is for on the go. You can slide the 7" in a pocket, it's lighter, easier to hold in one hand and is a much better size to do things than a smartphone. It's perfect to watch a video, surf the web without having to pinch and zoom all the time, read a book, etc.
I have an iPad, so I don't need the Xoom; I'm more interested by the Flyer because I can take it around with me.
I like the stylus idea if it works. I've seen many videos, but all they show is someone scribbling large ribbons of colour on screen. If you can't write with the stylus; take notes, do some sketches, it is a useless addition. I can't see a lot of potential for a stylus though, especially for 10"; someone sends you a document, you're in a cab, you scribble some notes for feedback and you send it back. Way better than trying to do that over the phone...
Last thing for me is Honeycomb. The Flyer has to be upgraded to Honeycomb - thanks for XDA - as it is very likely that none of the apps produced for Honeycomb will be tablet specific: it would be a shame to have a tablet and not be able to access specific apps developped for that format...
10 inch is great for home use but a pain for everything else. I bought a Galaxy tab to take with me when I leave the house and my ipad stays at home. I got really tired of carrying around the ipad.
Sent from my SPH-P100 using XDA Premium App
I thought HTC already said that the Flyer will get an official update to Honeycomb at some point?
The XOOm is you want primary home use. The specs are also far superior, dual core etc. But if i were you, i'd choose Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 over the XOOM. some reviews havemt said the XOOm isnt amzing... Also motorola have a bad phone reputation.
If by specs you mean CPU then yes however the Xoom is kinda like a truck with a highly tuned formula one engine. Plenty of power but its all lost in the drivetrain.
In other words, processing power is useless if you have nothing to take advantage of it. I have kicked around with various kernels and hacks on many devices and got some amazing Quadrant benchmark results but in the end, its just for self satisfaction. In normal use it makes little difference.
IMO some of the killer features of the Flyer are:
- Pocketable size
- Guaranteed dev community support
- Timescribe (especially the "pickup where you left off" calendar feature for recurring appointments
- Its a HTC
Lets face it. HTC are still terrible at marketing. The things that make senseUI and their devices great are all of the little things which make using them a great overall experience. You'll never get buyers remorse buying HTC because you always get more than was advertised.
How can you even compare the Xoom and Flyer? To me you might as well be comparing a pda and an XPS laptop. I think they are 2 different classes of device. Pprtability vs multimedia/home use.
I refuse to choose. The way i see it, i would normally spend $1200 on Descent laptop. Why not buy a Flyer and Xoom (or Asus Transformer) for about $1400?
Basically. ... I want BOTH!!!!!
Tabbed on my Galaxy 987
globiboulga said:
I like the stylus idea if it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right! I'd like to know if you can write while you have your hand resting on the screen. That goes for the XOOM, too. I want something close to "natural", and when I write, I have my hand and all sorts of fingers dragging around on the sheet.
marinierb said:
Right! I'd like to know if you can write while you have your hand resting on the screen. That goes for the XOOM, too. I want something close to "natural", and when I write, I have my hand and all sorts of fingers dragging around on the sheet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does have the ability to detect your hand vs the stylus. From what has been published so far,it looks like it works extremely well. Will have to wait till I get my hands on one ( ) to see if it is really as good as it looks.
Hey guys
I have owned HTC devices since the G1 n now i have the mytouch 4G rooted running Evil SD lates 2.3 port for it.
I wanna invest some money in a tablet. The MYT4G has a good size screen but sometimes it can strain your eyes when watching movies or heavy internet surfing. I want a portable tablet with the latets software and some of the newest feature. I have t mo. Here in the states. So the WiFi version of the Flyer is the only one available yet..
I have a questions. Your answers will help me deacide to buy one.
1. Does the Flyer have the ability to connect to a phones hotspot? Meaning if I tether wirelessly
2. I know there is no phone calls capabilities, but can you skype and quik?
3. Does it have a SD port?
4. And based on your experience with the device do you think it will be rootable in the future?
5. Also how does it sound? The speakers and w a headset is it real good.
Thanks I have many more questions but i think these r the most important for me. Any other things you think I should know prior to buying I would love to hear em.
Thanks for reading
Hi
Yes to all of those, I have the 3g model, and love it the form factor of it is perfect. I've played with quite a few 10" and they aren't for me.
The only down side I can see to flyer its a touch heavy, but its no heavier than any tablets out at the moment, I just would preferred HTC to have put HTC on a wee diet.
The CPU is fast, the only slow down I've every had was first boot up whilst my apps where caching.
The speakers aren't great great, but there not bad, you could listen to music or watch a movie, saying that if I was listening to music I'd probably hook up some speakers.
But really loving the flyer.
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk
To answer your initial question, it really depends on what you are looking for. If you want a 7" device or the ability to write digital notes, highlight and mark on books, PDFs, and websites, or need to sketch/draw on the go, then yes, it is worth it simply because there is no other device that would allow you the features that the pen does. And if you are in the market for a 7" tablet, I would say it's the best 7" out right now.
To answer your other questions:
1.Yes, I have T-Mobile and have had no problem connecting it to my cell phone wirelessly
2. I was able to download Skype from the market; I don't use Skype, but I'm assuming it shouldn't be a problem. Could not find Qik in the market.
3. MicroSD port, yes
4. I've never rooted my devices, so I cannot say.
5.The sound is pretty clear and loud (this is based off watching videos, I haven't listen to music on here). I don't necessarily like the placement of the speakers, I thought they should have them on the both sides of the device for a more balanced stereo sound. But I'm into audio, so that's just my thought. But they are clear and can get loud when the volume is turned up to the max.
I have a few videos on my YouTube channel, CheckThisGadget, going over the HTC Flyer and doing the pen test. So that should help you in making your decision also.
Great device, as other have said.
In addition, as HTC release firmware updates I think it'll get faster as HTC optimise Sense and Honeycomb is supposed more efficient.
It lacks phone functionality..
They made a change to the market which causes my apps button to be accesible only by menu button.
A Lot of software available trough other devices ain't accessible by the flyers market.
HTC Watch sometimes works , sometimes not.
All by all .... I think a lot of work on the rom has to be done. It's not worth at THIS moment in my opinion.
To the OP, yes to the inquiries. I feel rooting will be dependent upon popularity of the device. Speakers are what you would expect from small compact drivers... A bit tinny, but okay.
IMO, the pen integration sets this device apart from other tablets. HTC did a good job adapting apps for pen usage. I used it extensively at meetings during the week, and it was impressive. If you don't have a need for the pen then, there are better options for tablets out their... Again in my opinion.
Thanks for all your replys
One of the post did make really consider what I wanted it for, n its basically to replace my phone in terms of web browsing n media player. I like to call using my phone I really don't see why I woulnt want a tablet to make a phone call. LOL but the 3g will make it real independent.
I'm not to crazy bout HTC scribe but its a very nice feature since I do go to college it would be great for note taking.
I also looked at the notion link tablet. Idk if its out or what but it looked great.
Thanks again for all the helpful replies I think I'm 95% leaning towards HTC flyer than moat devices.
firedog09 said:
Thanks for all your replys
One of the post did make really consider what I wanted it for, n its basically to replace my phone in terms of web browsing n media player. I like to call using my phone I really don't see why I woulnt want a tablet to make a phone call. LOL but the 3g will make it real independent.
I'm not to crazy bout HTC scribe but its a very nice feature since I do go to college it would be great for note taking.
I also looked at the notion link tablet. Idk if its out or what but it looked great.
Thanks again for all the helpful replies I think I'm 95% leaning towards HTC flyer than moat devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too considerd the Notion Ink a while back but decided against it due to the tablet coming from a small shop in India and support may or may not be up to par. Plus ordering one put you on a list as units were being built.
As for browsing the web, the Flyer is great. I enjoy surfing the web more on the Flyer than my Xoom. I have not had one force close on the Flyer yet which I cannot say for the Xoom. Tabbed browsing is missing for now but Honeycomb will fix that. The speakers are pretty good, not great. You can download an equalizer from the market that will help when using headphones.
Overall, it's a nice device and suits my needs perfectly (web browsing, email, occasional games)
Yes its worth it, it is the only true multi function 7 inch tablet on the market.
I got mine two days ago in Hong Kong and I'm really loving it! It cost ~USD 700 (for the Wifi + 3G version w/stylus). I have to say it's the perfect size and the screen resolution is perfect for browsing! I would say it's worth the USD 700 that I paid for. Now I just have to get a 3G data in China...
I'd say it is worth it. I rarely use my laptop now because I enjoy using my tablet for browsing, email, etc. I did buy the Scribe pen but I actually rarely use it. Maybe if there was more functionality for it (handwriting recognition, more app support) I would use it more. Still feels decently polished although I do miss Honeycomb and being able to download those true tablet apps.
I personally think, that if HTC engineered their Flyer tablet with Stantum display it would be a Killer device, a game changer. Seriously - a resistive display, that supports 10-finger multitouch is awesome. Notes, drawing, photo editing, CAD software on small screens, and, if it was used in a smartphone - imagine using your phone in winter without getting your gloves of. Hm, dreams, dreams...
Hi
The old sceeen question.... I presonally own a pair a gloves with special tips for using screens in winter....
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using XDA App
If the performance of the resistive is anything like the old WM phones, then it wouldn't be an improvement. If you want a resistive screen android tablet, there are plenty of Chinese mid-tablets out there.
10 point touch sounds interesting, but why? Some of the app gestures requiring three finger touch is confusing enough.
I really like the pen input aspect, but it seems like for it to be useful you have to flash to HC (which doesn't look easy at all). I'm coming from a Nook Color and while I love it, there are a few things it can't quite do and in light of my wife needing a replacement for her broken original Nook, I'm looking at 7" tablets and giving her the NC.
I've tried a capacitive stylus on the Nook and it doesn't work very well, but from what I've seen of the digital stylus on the flyer it looks like exactly what I wanted. My question is can it be enabled for all applications in gingerbread or do you have to flash to the beta HC for it to work in all apps? How difficult is this to do? I'm mostly interested in sketchbook, Evernote, AndCAD and AutocadWS.
Also, how well does it do with HD video? I have a bunch of recorded TV on my computer (captured through media center and an HD tv card) and the NC is not nearly powerful enough to play them without re-encoding. I'm not worried about image quality (the re-encoded videos look great once run through the two separate encodes required to get them working natively on the NC), but I don't want to re-encode as it's a PITA due to the media format media center uses - I just want to stream them via DLNA. I figured the 1.5ghz processor in the flyer might be the only tablet that could do it as I don't think a dual core would help too much.
Looking at picking up the flyer and stylus at BB tonight, seems to be worth the extra $90 vs. the Lenovo A1 if the stylus can be made to work in the above mentioned apps.
For watching video, you might check out the Archos line of tablets.
www.archos.com
forum.archosfans.com
This company has always focused on the media aspects their devices. There isn't the pen support like on the Flyer, so you will have to use a capacitive stylus.
butterflygirl said:
For watching video, you might check out the Archos line of tablets.
www.archos.com
forum.archosfans.com
This company has always focused on the media aspects their devices. There isn't the pen support like on the Flyer, so you will have to use a capacitive stylus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I've gone down the capacitive route and it doesn't meet my needs. Are the archos tablets able to handle high def videos better or just better setup for media play interface wise? I don't care much about the interface or anything, just whether it has the power to play HD video or not.
They play hi-def and have a wide range of codec support. Check out the forum at www.archosfans.com for more discussion of this.
Tech specs here: http://www.archos.com/products/gen9/archos_80g9/specs.html?country=us&lang=en
butterflygirl said:
They play hi-def and have a wide range of codec support. Check out the forum at www.archosfans.com for more discussion of this.
Tech specs here: http://www.archos.com/products/gen9/archos_80g9/specs.html?country=us&lang=en
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Archos 70 doesn't appear competitive with the flyer. I don't really want a larger tablet...
I tested a 720p anime that i downloaded onto the flyer and it seemed to play okay in rockplayer
I bought the HTC Flyer today and I love it! I sold my Viewsonic G Tablet and with the money I got from that, I went to Best Buy at lunch and picked it up.
I really like the size of this, and the speed is fantastic. This really is a well built and great is a super tablet.
I am really glad that I got this tablet.
The Flyer rocks. Like Butterflygirl, I tested 720p MKV files and they play great on the Flyer, but choke on my Droid 3 and Thrive.
IMO, the Flyer is the best tablet in the market, when considering the total of quality, function, performance and price.
I bought a case and 32gb micro sd for $56 delivered. The case is great for $15 and has two stand positions.
rushless said:
The Flyer rocks. Like Butterflygirl, I tested 720p MKV files and they play great on the Flyer, but choke on my Droid 3 and Thrive.
IMO, the Flyer is the best tablet in the market, when considering the total of quality, function, performance and price.
I bought a case and 32gb micro sd for $56 delivered. The case is great for $15 and has two stand positions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you buy the 32gb micro sd card?
I came to a flyer from a rooted nook color. So far (after about a week) I love it. Definite upgrade. I just got the stylus today and it is literally night and day from the capacitative stylus I tried on nook color.
Edit: forgot to add... I tried a 1080p mkv x264 blu ray rip and it didn't play. I haven't tried any other video files, but net flix works
kenypowa said:
Where did you buy the 32gb micro sd card?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought both the card and case from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WGJYCY
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005D7FEAQ
The case is fantastic, BTW.
Im using the Flyer with Gingerbread. The pen is good for taking notes in MSWord, annotations in pdf. No problem so far. Im looking forward to getting HC. The Flyer will be a "killer" then.
I'll be getting a flyer this week as well. My primary concerns are battery life and viewing the screen outdoors. What's the battery life consensus on this bad boy?
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk
I can't comment too much on the battery life, as I have only had it for 2 days, but from what I've experienced with it, its really nice. If you do wifi occasionally, and some videos here and there, but use it mostly for reading books/pdfs (as I do), I estimate that it can last around 3 days with a single charge.
As for the screen, when reading something outside on a sunny day with 0 clouds, I can read off of the screen as long as the sun isn't directly reflecting off of it. It's really nice.
theomni said:
I can't comment too much on the battery life, as I have only had it for 2 days, but from what I've experienced with it, its really nice. If you do wifi occasionally, and some videos here and there, but use it mostly for reading books/pdfs (as I do), I estimate that it can last around 3 days with a single charge.
As for the screen, when reading something outside on a sunny day with 0 clouds, I can read off of the screen as long as the sun isn't directly reflecting off of it. It's really nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I'm going to try to get to Best Buy again tomorrow. I'm usually not a fan on sense but when I played with it on the Flyer it was really nice. Can't wait to get my hands on this badboy.
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk
You will not be disappointed. And I bet you might be surprised how damn good the flyer is.
life64x said:
You will not be disappointed. And I bet you might be surprised how damn good the flyer is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Talked two persons looking at tablets yesterday while unwashed visiting Best Buy - Received numerous messages from both thanking me in the last 24 hours.
I actually bought mine before launch and am happy even with their lowering the price - It is a real deal now!
Sent from my HTC Flyer P512
woodiah said:
Talked two persons looking at tablets yesterday while unwashed visiting Best Buy - Received numerous messages from both thanking me in the last 24 hours.
I actually bought mine before launch and am happy even with their lowering the price - It is a real deal now!
Sent from my HTC Flyer P512
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its a really device. I frankly was surprised. Heads down better then my transformer and nook. If they improve honeycomb..I will put it on instead of keeping rooted stock.
life64x said:
Its a really device. I frankly was surprised. Heads down better then my transformer and nook. If they improve honeycomb..I will put it on instead of keeping rooted stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is it better than the nook? I have my nook rooted and it works really well, I just really want the pen integration and would like to be able to play recorded tv without transcoding. How does the screen of the flyer compare to the nook?
I'm looking at going to HC right off the bat due to being able to use the pen in all apps, how difficult is this?
bobzdar said:
I'm looking at going to HC right off the bat due to being able to use the pen in all apps, how difficult is this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it's as difficult as the user is inexperienced using adb & fastboot to dig out from almost guaranteed mishaps. believe the health warnings. i like running HC on my flyer but it is buggy compared to GB and the development is stagnate pending an official HTC HC-Sense release still unannounced.
Listen, I understand how people are looking at KF and thinking - man, it's already rooted, has CWM and ROMS are but a minute away. Our NT is still locked down, and we're being told it may stay this way.
So naturally, being in your return period, you're thinking about switching boats to KF.
I have one word explaining why that's a real bad idea: SPECS.
Ok, say you have a KF running CM on it.
RAM - you have 512MB RAM. That's low, not enough for GB or ICS. No need arguing that GB will run on it - yes it will, but it'll never be as smooth as a 1GB RAM device. Android will keep closing apps to free up mem, that creates response lag.
Anybody who had an original SGS with GB on it knows - you just can't make an SGSII out of it, it will always lag here and there. Read engadget review - they are complaining about how laggy it is.
Memory - You've got 6GB memory. That's it. You'll never have any more. That means you'll constantly feel deprived of space - you can't load full HD movies to watch, you can't load your music collection on it. You'll constantly be sacrificing something.
Books/Media store - you only have access to Amazon media store, since B&N doesn't have a store you can install and use. On a NT, though, without any root we already can stream Amazon content, read Kindle books, and that's all with native support of everything B&N has to offer.
No MIC - forget about using your Fire with Google Voice. There's no mic. Also forget about recording yourself reading books to your kids, to use in case you're on vacation or something.
Amazon Cloud you say? Yes, but only where you have a good WiFi connection. As soon as you're out of range - the fun stops. Phone tethering you say? Those 2GB will disappear MEGA FAST if you stream to your KF.
Amazon videos you say? Sure, but remember - that ain't free. Pay Amazon Prime membership fee, then also pay for movies themselves. And again, only when on WiFi and you don't get to keep it.
On the other hand, consider this:
With NT, even without root, we already have a device that's:
Very snappy
Able to sideload apps
Able to run a different launcher
Able to run Opera browser - nice n fast
Able to run 720p videos in browser, full screen
Able to play almost any video up to full-HD 1080p BlueRay
Able to play AVI files with free third-party players (no need for conversion)
Has 33GB+ of memory with an added SD card. I've just loaded tons of movies, books, magazines and music on it, and still have space remaining
Will be able to be used as a phone with Google Voice
Run Amazon Market (some have reported that even older Android Market APK works)
Run both Amazon's and B&N's premium content.
Think about it. Yes, KF was hacked faster than our NT was, but in the end, we already have almost everything we need, AND we have a much more powerful device.
KF was quicker at the start, but it has almost depleted its potential as a modern Android tablet, considering what future versions of Android need. Our device still has tons of untapped potential.
EDIT:
Engadget released a comparison between the two HERE.
Here are some interesting parts for the lazy:
Both tablets are a good size for one-handed reading, though the Nook edges out the Kindle here a bit, with its slightly lighter weight (14.1 ounces to the Fire's 14.6). The Nook's subtly convex back and plastic bezel make a bit easier to hold.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both devices rock 1GHz dual-core processors, but the Nook has an edge here, with its 1GB of RAM to the Fire's 512MB -- and certainly the difference is noticeable, even when booting up something as simple as a game like Angry Birds. Things are even more pronounced during video playback. We took Shutter Island for a spin via Netflix streaming on both devices, and it was really like night and day. Motion is far less choppy on the Barnes & Noble device. The HD playback on the Nook also picked up subtle imagery like patterns on ties, which were largely lost on the Fire.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tl;dr version: PATIENCE!
+1 to NT and I repped you too!
oh wait..not SD. LOL
That is why everyone needs to pull their pants back up and wait.
It will be rooted.
I also voted this thread up!
How hard would it be for them to close the sideload loophole? The thing updates automatically, right? Obviously they are not going to be excited hearing about everyone using the Amazon store.
I agree the Fire is not a good alternative for exactly your reasons, but that doesn't necessarily mean that this is worth keeping if it turns out to be locked down tight.
compscure said:
How hard would it be for them to close the sideload loophole? The thing updates automatically, right? Obviously they are not going to be excited hearing about everyone using the Amazon store.
I agree the Fire is not a good alternative for exactly your reasons, but that doesn't necessarily mean that this is worth keeping if it turns out to be locked down tight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my opinion, a locked NT as it is right now is still much better than a KF running CM.
But given that they locked it down, don't you think it was a mistake/accident that they allowed apk installs through the browser? When they push the first update will that ability still be there?
DarkDvr, normally i would agree with you if the market only have two 7inch tablet to choose from (KF and NT). However this is not the case, we have tons of options in 7inch tablet market, and if B&N really is being an ass to lock down the NT, then people can choose other tablets that might fit their need better.
Last year when NC came out there was only two 7inch tablet (NC, and Samsung Tab), so we get a lot more developer support, and people are willing to be more patient, but this is no longer the case.
7inch tablets:
Nook Tablet
Kindle Fire
Samsung Tab (~$250 refurbished for 3g version, cheaper for wifi version)
Nook Color ($199)
Lenovo Idea Pad A1 (Cortext A8, 512mb ram, bluetooth, GPS, f/b camera, microsd slot, $199)
Acer Iconia Tab A100 (tegra 2, 1gb ram, Honeycomb, bluetooth, f/b camera, <$200 on BF)
Kobo Vox (Cortex A8, 512 ram, Gingerbread, MicroSd, $199)
Samsung Tab 7.0 Plus (Exynos dual core, 1gb ram, honeycomb, GPS, BT, F/B camera, $399)
Samsung Tab 7.7 (Exynos, 1gb ram, Honeycomb, GPS, BT, F/B camera, 1280x800, price?)
HTC Flyer (1.5ghz, pen input, $299)
Dell Streak 7 Tablet (Tegra 2, 800x480, Honeycomb, f/b camera)
And those are only the major brands, there are other off brands like Archos, Velocity Micro, Coby, that i didn't include.
So to me, if B&N really want to piss off the community that help make their NC a success to began with, then I will vote with my wallet and let them know that it is not a good idea to piss off the people your loyal customer, and your first adopter for the NT.
EDIT
Don't get me wrong, I still have high hope for the NT, and i really like the NC/NT simple but elegant design. However if B&N really choose to lookdown the NT's bootloader (which the dev community haven't conclusively proven yet), then i really don't want to buy a product from a company that chooses to piss off it's loyal customers.
gordon1hd1 said:
7inch tablets:
Nook Tablet
Kindle Fire
Samsung Tab (~$250 refurbished for 3g version, cheaper for wifi version)
Nook Color ($199)
Lenovo Idea Pad A1 (Cortext A8, 512mb ram, bluetooth, GPS, f/b camera, microsd slot, $199)
Acer Iconia Tab A100 (tegra 2, 1gb ram, Honeycomb, bluetooth, f/b camera, <$200 on BF)
Kobo Vox (Cortex A8, 512 ram, Gingerbread, MicroSd, $199)
Samsung Tab 7.0 Plus (Exynos dual core, 1gb ram, honeycomb, GPS, BT, F/B camera, $399)
Samsung Tab 7.7 (Exynos, 1gb ram, Honeycomb, GPS, BT, F/B camera, 1280x800, price?)
HTC Flyer (1.5ghz, pen input, $299)
Dell Streak 7 Tablet (Tegra 2, 800x480, Honeycomb, f/b camera)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, I definitely think that locking NT was a huge mistake that B&N will pay for, but for some of us NT IS the best option.
Samsung Tab - 10 inch heavy shovel - screw that
NC - too weak and laggy, even after mods
Lenovo - 512 RAM, weak
Acer Iconia - I see $330+ price even for 8GB version
Kobo Vox - 512 RAM and don't trust that brand
Samsung Tab 7.0 Plus - 400+tax for a tablet is overpriced
Samsung Tab 7.7 - even more expensive?
HTC Flyer - slow and laggy, overpriced since day 1
Dell Streak - slow and laggy, low res screen
What I'm saying is that when you, like me, are in the market for a cheap tablet, there's only 2 good options - NT and KF. Rest of them are either overpriced as a device (going into netbook or UP category, where they just can't compete) or some shady brands.
At least that's my thinking.
EDIT:
Don't get me wrong, I still have high hope for the NT, and i really like the NC/NT simple but elegant design. However if B&N really choose to lookdown the NT's bootloader (which the dev community haven't conclusively proven yet), then i really don't want to buy a product from a company that chooses to piss off it's loyal customers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, and given a choice, I'd always go for a company that doesn't insult my intelligence and doesn't treat its customers as morons. However, I have full faith in XDA community and still believe this will get hacked. And when it does, I'll be pointing finger at KF and laughing maniacally.
Depending on the weather here on the forum in the next 12 days, B&N may be losing my $260 to a Samsung G 7+ (maybe even a KF if I'm feeling crazy). Or just wait a few months see what turns up after Christmas.
gordon1hd1 said:
So to me, if B&N really want to piss off the community that help make their NC a success to began with, then I will vote with my wallet and let them know that it is not a good idea to piss off the people your loyal customer, and your first adopter for the NT.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw a quote linked somewhere here recently from someone from B&N and they said something about 3% of NC coming from modders. I don't know how accurate or guesstimated that number was, but we shouldn't forget that they sell millions of these devices to normal consumers and there are only thousands of us. I'd like to think they keep people like us in mind, but we certainly aren't they primary market by a long shot.
I agree that there are lots of other options, but it's disheartening when none seem to have the build quality and specs in the same price range as the Nook models, excluding BF sales that might be hard to get. The IdeaPad looks intriguing at first glance but is the same basic hardware as the year-old NC and with a worse screen (and eww: the $200 version has 2GB storage that probably won't ever fit ICS). Acer A100 looks nice but also has a cheaper screen and a small battery.
DarkDvr while i am like you, think that the NT might be the best fit for my use case also. But with so many choices out there, i think our dev and support community won't be anywhere near the same as it was with NC. Plus with the bone headed move on B&N part, i don't see many true devotee sticking to the NT like yourself. And that is the ultimate problem, without a strong dev community, the NT most likely won't get all the goodies like CM7/CM9, which is what made the NC awesome.
By the way the Samsung Tab i was referring to earlier is the 7inch model, the same one that came out right before NC. Both are rocking Cortex-A8 processor.
I am honestly VERY happy with the status of my KT right now. As it stands, with a launcher, widgetlocker app and all the other sideloaded apps I wanted I have everything i wanted.
I dont care if I lose amazon marketplace support, because honestly I can find any apk I want all amazon does is give me a way to read reviews (which i can through the browser + android market)
the only thing, and trust me it is a HUGE thing, i am terrified of is that come day 15 or 16 or even 30, B&N releases a firmware update i cannot click 'no' to and it updates my nook and closes the hole we've been using. I dont know if its possible, but I reckon it is and that would make me a very sad camper since stock, this thing is a total piece of **** software wise (nook market is worthless), i bought a tablet, not an ereader.
boomn said:
I saw a quote linked somewhere here recently from someone from B&N and they said something about 3% of NC coming from modders. I don't know how accurate or guesstimated that number was, but we shouldn't forget that they sell millions of these devices to normal consumers and there are only thousands of us. I'd like to think they keep people like us in mind, but we certainly aren't they primary market by a long shot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Boomn i think you underestimate the word of mouth, and unofficial advertisement B&N get from the modder community. Every few weeks there is a story on Engadget, Liliputing or Gizmodo about how great the NC community is, and the release of the a popular Rom for the NC. Or how most of the highly rated reviews on B&N, Amazon, BB are from modder who brought the NC to use as a tablet. So while we as a community might be small, but our influences on "Normal" people's purchase decision are much higher than B&N thinks.
And if B&N think that they can piss off the dev community, while taking on Amazon, and all the other 7inch tablet maker out there, and still make the NT a commercial success, they might be in for huge disappointment. Just look at how many of the NT and KF review out there mention rooting or app side-loading as part of the official review, and how much negative PR B&N got from the 1GB storage limitation on the review sites.
.
Because I live in Italy I'll receive my NT only on 26Nov. (if I will lucky), so no give back option for me
So.. I really, really hope that a hack will be found. Just the root will be enough for me
With the root we'll be able to run custom recovery, trow away what we don't need and add what is missing (settings, etc).
BTW for me realease the source and lock the bootloader is a nonsense!
First post.
I'm a full-time iOS developer with about 6 iOS devices on my desk right now. I really like iOS and love developing for it. Having said that....
I picked up a Kindle (e-ink) about a year ago and then switched to a Nook Simple Touch the day they were released. I've been watching the KF/NT release with great interest.
I eventually decided on the Nook Tablet and stumbled across this site the day I got it (the 16th). I have been blown away by the things you people have accomplished in just a couple of days and I've had a blast watching the hour-by-hour discoveries.
My main reason for getting the NT was as a reader and everything you folks are doing is icing on the cake. Very nice icing!
I'm also very optimistic that breakthroughs will continue even if the pace slows a bit. For me the KF is just too restricted in capability--even it if can be rooted.
As an aside, I also have access to a handful of Android devices including a 10.1 Galaxy Tab, and a Lenovo Ideapad K1 (it helps when the company is buying), but I prefer the Nook Tablet to either.
As long as I can keep side-loading apps I'll be happy. I certainly understand the sentiments of those not wanting to reward B&N for what appears to be a snub. At the same time as long as they continue to allow me some method to get a few more apps on the device I'm good with it.
It's been my experience that once I get a device setup--either iOS or Android--I really only end up using a handful of apps (after trying dozens)--but I want them to be very good apps that *I* get to choose.
Thank you to you all!
This thread should not exist, has nothing to do with android development and sounds more like a sales pitch than anything.
I get it you prefer the NT, me too but this thread is pointless and should be deleted...
gordon1hd1 said:
Boomn i think you underestimate the word of mouth, and unofficial advertisement B&N get from the modder community. Every few weeks there is a story on Engadget, Liliputing or Gizmodo about how great the NC community is, and the release of the a popular Rom for the NC. Or how most of the highly rated reviews on B&N, Amazon, BB are from modder who brought the NC to use as a tablet. So while we as a community might be small, but our influences on "Normal" people's purchase decision are much higher than B&N thinks.
And if B&N think that they can piss off the dev community, while taking on Amazon, and all the other 7inch tablet maker out there, and still make the NT a commercial success, they might be in for huge disappointment. Just look at how many of the NT and KF review out there mention rooting or app side-loading as part of the official review, and how much negative PR B&N got from the 1GB storage limitation on the review sites.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point, we are certainly a vocal and influential bunch. However lots of those "normal" consumers would never check any place like Engadget for any review and have probably never heard of it. Mentions of modding/hacking/flashing in online store reviews go right over lots of people's heads too. Amazon and B&N are going to sell a ton of their tablets through physical stores like Walmart, Target, BestBuy, etc where most people still shop too. I agree that we probably do have more influence than just 3%... and now I'm not even sure where I was going with this point, lol
notinterested said:
This thread should not exist, has nothing to do with android development and sounds more like a sales pitch than anything.
I get it you prefer the NT, me too but this thread is pointless and should be deleted...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the general forum for the NT not the development forum. Calm down.
Knuxr said:
This is the general forum for the NT not the development forum. Calm down.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My mistake, was on the wrong tab.
Still though, pointless thread is pointless. We all know the better device.
notinterested said:
My mistake, was on the wrong tab.
Still though, pointless thread is pointless. We all know the better device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely agree with that, but this thread serves as a reminder why it is still better than the Fire, to those that might not know.
notinterested said:
This thread should not exist, has nothing to do with android development and sounds more like a sales pitch than anything.
I get it you prefer the NT, me too but this thread is pointless and should be deleted...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...Excuse me?
Forgive me for not appreciating your "experience" on XDA since, omg, feb 2010, but this is a General NT forum, and this thread is very much important to people who are right now at a tipping point between NT and KF, considering the latest root news for both devices.
So drink some coolaid and move along, kid.
Hi guys, I'm new to the (modern) tablet scene. I tried to get into tablets when I started college back in 2007 with the Fujitsu T4215 and absolutely loved handwriting and the idea of tablets back then, but unfortunately the hardware at the time proved a bit too heavy (literally) and clunky for me (e.g. low battery life, and other hardware issues I had with my laptop). I rediscovered pen and paper for some time and found I work way more effectively writing, however, it can be very hard to organize and now I just have stacks and stacks of paper. I'm just starting graduate school, and it it seems like the hardware (e.g. HTC flyer, Samsung Note) and software (e.g. Lecture Notes, Quill, ezPDF) are starting to converge to a point of being usable and affordable, so I'm thinking of giving tablets another shot.
I'm pretty sure I'm going to replace my dying laptop with a serviceable windows 8 tablet-top (I love onenote) after all the kinks of the 1st generation of windows 8 tablets have been worked out, so I've been hesitant to spring for the samsung note (despite the rave reviews) since they would be filling the same niche. This still gives me a year or so of downtime though, leading me to consider the 7 inch HTC flyer.
My dilemma right now is if you guys think the HTC flyer/view is a good investment right now. It seems like there are rumors for a 7 inch samsung note? And the HTC flyer with windows RT. Although the price for those I'm guessing is going to be $350+ and perhaps out of my student budget. But would the HTC flyer hold its value for a year or so? Should I get used or new? What would be a good price to invest in? Or should I wait for a new device? It's so hard to decide with hardware improving so quickly and everything becoming outdated in a just a few months.
My usage is fairly light. I'm coming from a slow Android 2.3 smartphone and ipod touch 2 (whose smoothness still blows my mind even though it's older than my android phone), so I feel no matter what the flyer is still a big upgrade for me. I'm just looking for a good companion to hold all my pdfs, papers (gonna start scanning all my handwritten notes), while allowing for some handy pen annotation. And if I could connect remotely to my desktop for some matlab and or mathematica I'd be ecstatic.
Thanks guys!
EnPaceRequiescat said:
Hi guys, I'm new to the (modern) tablet scene. I tried to get into tablets when I started college back in 2007 with the Fujitsu T4215 and absolutely loved handwriting and the idea of tablets back then, but unfortunately the hardware at the time proved a bit too heavy (literally) and clunky for me (e.g. low battery life, and other hardware issues I had with my laptop). I rediscovered pen and paper for some time and found I work way more effectively writing, however, it can be very hard to organize and now I just have stacks and stacks of paper. I'm just starting graduate school, and it it seems like the hardware (e.g. HTC flyer, Samsung Note) and software (e.g. Lecture Notes, Quill, ezPDF) are starting to converge to a point of being usable and affordable, so I'm thinking of giving tablets another shot.
I'm pretty sure I'm going to replace my dying laptop with a serviceable windows 8 tablet-top (I love onenote) after all the kinks of the 1st generation of windows 8 tablets have been worked out, so I've been hesitant to spring for the samsung note (despite the rave reviews) since they would be filling the same niche. This still gives me a year or so of downtime though, leading me to consider the 7 inch HTC flyer.
My dilemma right now is if you guys think the HTC flyer/view is a good investment right now. It seems like there are rumors for a 7 inch samsung note? And the HTC flyer with windows RT. Although the price for those I'm guessing is going to be $350+ and perhaps out of my student budget. But would the HTC flyer hold its value for a year or so? Should I get used or new? What would be a good price to invest in? Or should I wait for a new device? It's so hard to decide with hardware improving so quickly and everything becoming outdated in a just a few months.
My usage is fairly light. I'm coming from a slow Android 2.3 smartphone and ipod touch 2 (whose smoothness still blows my mind even though it's older than my android phone), so I feel no matter what the flyer is still a big upgrade for me. I'm just looking for a good companion to hold all my pdfs, papers (gonna start scanning all my handwritten notes), while allowing for some handy pen annotation. And if I could connect remotely to my desktop for some matlab and or mathematica I'd be ecstatic.
Thanks guys!
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Click to collapse
The Flyer is dead. It's not a bad tablet par se, but cannot compare in price to the Nexus 7. There is very Iittle development going on in the Flyer.
Do yourself a favour and buy a Nexus 7 or 10.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
If you are looking for a current tablet with great writing capabilities I'd recommend the Samsung Note 10.1. If cost is your concern and 10" seems too big I think the flyer with a custom ROM, Like Leedroid HC OR Mawakious, would do you well. I've seen flyers as low as $130 on eBay, the scribe pen is on clearance at sites like buy.com for about $26, although I've seen it as low as $19 on eBay, along with a case, which I've seen some nice ones with a pen holder for $13.
So roughly you could pay as low as, pad in some shipping costs (very rough estimates here), ~$180, maybe less.
Samsung hasn't confirmed a 7" note, yet. I wouldn't base my buying on something that does not yet exist.
I still don't regret getting the flyer.
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using Tapatalk 2
gersto said:
If you are looking for a current tablet with great writing capabilities I'd recommend the Samsung Note 10.1. If cost is your concern and 10" seems too big I think the flyer with a custom ROM, Like Leedroid HC OR Mawakious, would do you well. I've seen flyers as low as $130 on eBay, the scribe pen is on clearance at sites like buy.com for about $26, although I've seen it as low as $19 on eBay, along with a case, which I've seen some nice ones with a pen holder for $13.
So roughly you could pay as low as, pad in some shipping costs (very rough estimates here), ~$180, maybe less.
Samsung hasn't confirmed a 7" note, yet. I wouldn't base my buying on something that does not yet exist.
I still don't regret getting the flyer.
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
Samsung has confirmed the 7" note, but not when it will go on sale. I'm sure the price will be $350 + .
If you don;t need a stylus, the Samsung 7.2 tab 2 is a good deal and has current JB ROMs and development for around $149.
I don't regret getting the View a year ago. It is a solid tablet. But I certainly wouldn't recommend buying one now. There are much faster and better supported tablets available today for around the same price. I thought I would use the pen a lot, but I haven't. If I were to get a 7" tablet today, I'd get a Nexus 7, or possibly a Samsung.
If you are on budget, Flyer is a good choice. You can't expect it to have uptodate software or fancy things like window view in galaxy notes but the price/productivity can't be beat. And so far, this is the only mobile size 7inch tablet with stylus in the market. Even if Samsung release a 7 inch note in the future, it will be expensive.
I like my Flyer very much. It is the best personal electronic device that I have ever bought, although sometimes I wish it had SamsungNote software and small stylus. Btw imo, Samsung devices usually do not look good.
Thanks guys for all the comments! From what it seems the hardware definitely is quite out of date, and that the flyer is really only worth it if I make good use of the pen. I guess my media consumption is light (casual youtube, hulu, skype), so hopefully the hardware won't give me issues. For those of you for whom the flyer/view was good for productivity, how do you guys make use of the pen?
@rickwood, what did you originally intend to use the pen for? Was the pen not smooth enough for your intended uses?
Also, how would the flyer/view fare for connecting to a keyboard and remote desktopping/ssh'ing, in case I'm checking on some code on the fly?
Thanks!
EnPaceRequiescat said:
For those of you for whom the flyer/view was good for productivity, how do you guys make use of the pen?
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Click to collapse
In my case, I usually use the pen when I take notes in class everyday. I'm using the app LectureNotes, PDFView(for pdf import to LectureNotes) and LectureRecodings(for recording with taking notes).
using :
HTC Flyer ICS yetki
HTC Desire MIUI ICS
EnPaceRequiescat said:
Thanks guys for all the comments! From what it seems the hardware definitely is quite out of date, and that the flyer is really only worth it if I make good use of the pen. I guess my media consumption is light (casual youtube, hulu, skype), so hopefully the hardware won't give me issues. For those of you for whom the flyer/view was good for productivity, how do you guys make use of the pen?
@rickwood, what did you originally intend to use the pen for? Was the pen not smooth enough for your intended uses?
Also, how would the flyer/view fare for connecting to a keyboard and remote desktopping/ssh'ing, in case I'm checking on some code on the fly?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The hardware is definitely old but i have used it for numerous task, including media and games. Many "HD" games work great (and no i'm not just talking about Angry Birds, heh)
i've used Skype and Youtube and no issues with HC on those fronts. Never used Hulu Plus and Netflix seems to work fine, slight stutter here and there though.
I've used DicePlayer for playing videos loaded on the tablet and works great with the built-in hardware acceleration up to 720p HD movies.
I've tried using remote desktop, had 2X, and my job uses Citrix, they are "useful" but i think the 7" screen hinders that use more than it helps. It's good for a quick check but productivity-wise may be cumbersome to use. Having a bluetooth keyboard & mouse does help, but the screen real estate is more the issue, at least to me.
The tablet is definitely capable.
EnPaceRequiescat said:
@rickwood, what did you originally intend to use the pen for? Was the pen not smooth enough for your intended uses?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought I'd use the pen for light note taking. On paper, I write really small. On the View, for some reason I had a hard time doing this - - all my text came out really big. Not sure if this was due to the small size of the pen, the resolution of the tablet, or the fact that I was using a compatible Fujitsu pen rather than a true HTC pen. In any case, I wasn't pleased with how my notes were turning out, so I rarely use the pen anymore.
Hope this helps
Its actually a kinda rule in mobile tech field and allied, to not compare gadgets with age difference more than an year (in fact 6 months)
So kindly don't compare a quite way-back-released Flyer/View with latest Nexus and note 2/3 etc
My advise, HTF flyer is one of the best-all-in-one device you would find around (in fact a very few are there)
I can keep counting on features and its usability and fill up a page or 2, with REAL-LIFE uses with just a 1 Real-Portable-Device in your Jeans/Trouser/Coat Pocket (and not in a another BAG( which is actually pseudo-portable)).
If short of money, GRAB it quick. Believe me the major rate dip and stuff for this Product is already done/over. The current prices will remain till the inventory(which is already low) gets over (except you knock off some bargained deal with a seller). If you are thinking of some stop gap arrangement (with regards to your win8 tablet..better don;t). Wait a few months..win8 pro would be out in jan 2013. Get a
MS surface pro...and if you like like Win 8, SURFACE PRO would be really a great product (Hope you are saving money for it; Price would be 2-3X times the flyer's cost)
Personally i really like MS surface PRO (not RT)
If have money and cant live without flaunting Newest OS (FYI Flyer runs Jellybean too but not with all functions AON) and Gadget to friends and allied, go for other options. Yes there are some better options and the list will keep adding with time (and more money you are ready to spent)
I advise getting a Flyer than Evo View, if you are looking to replace your phone too.(and cant carry multiple devices)
P.S. Just some experience, in case that helps. I am not a "lets-buy-a-new-phone/tablet" guy just bcoz options are there and money is there in my bank account. I always RIP a product when it is missing/making me difficult to handle some new technology/function which i/associated people need or it BREAKS down.
When i bought My HTC KAISER back in 2007 (For 600$(including shipping) importing a Tmobile MDA vario III version to my country as there were none available here) i knew i made a good choice.
That new design and functions served me for some 3 years without me feeling much to shift over EXCEPT some screen real estate shortage(which gets short with each passing year given the fact how bigger handhelds are becoming) & resistive screen
& then i bought the FLYER (after waiting for its Initial 700$ price to come down to 370$) and i knew that price is worth it for a 7 inch Capacitive HTC's Beautiful tablet with Wifi, 3G, GPS, Dual Cameras, 32Gb+Slot Storage and the Hidden GSM phone(the deal breaker for me). It has replaced my phone too HTC KAISER (which still looks at me the same way.... sometimes when i need to lend a phone to someone(with all functions working and just wear n tear damage))
Also see how i substituted a 600$ product with a 370$ product after 3-4 yrs & latter being a more smarter, more useful and lot more productive product
Thats how technology works and changes & also how usage of product/s changes!
Personally, now, I use it as my All-in-one device
- Mainly for Phone,
- Quick Internet browsing (using Wifi at home & 3G Sim outside)
- GPS
- Voice recorder for notes(in professional work) & life voice-logs(when alone)
- a Drawing Pad for my nephew (They say the "magic" Pen is great)
- Full fledged Alarm Clock
- To-Do List Reminder
- my Music Portable (Home, Office and Travel(Airplane; Trains etc)) Esp. over Wireless Stereo BT headset
Including playing my music in Car using Aux/Drive/BT input (esp. when Days of CD/Discs are long gone)
- my Video Portable playing 720p HD videos with proper 16:9 Ratio(Home, Office and Travel(Airplane; Trains etc))
- Gr8 Games when i feeling bored
and Mind you ...if 7 inch real estate is small ...get a HDMI out and you would love the stuff on a big LED or Projector screen.
- Measure Distances & Heights (Smart Rule App)
- Taking Database Backups of my blogs and websites
- Torrents
- Wifi Hot spot for other gadgets
- Occasional Written note taking (kinda to do list only) . Scribe Pen is so handy (Mine came free/included with Flyer)
- Voice controlled Commands (Still researching Voice assistants like Speak to it & utter and they are FASCINATING)
- and the list is endless with what not can be done with loads of USEFUL and PRODUCTIVE apps available esp. after ROOTING the device into a Fully-Controlled (Beautiful-)Beast!
and
LoVVVe it.
(My only gripe (for the money and beautiful device this is).. is why HTC didn't put a flash in and may be they should have added a larger battery. Camera is not good in low light & buttery runs out soon when i use these many functions )
EnPaceRequiescat said:
For those of you for whom the flyer/view was good for productivity, how do you guys make use of the pen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The most useful feature for me is annotating PDF files. I use Repligo app. Another trick is that you can convert Power point (or whatever) files into PDFs and annotate them. I can't find any good app to annotate Word files. Foxit Viewer comes with the Flyer is useless.
I also use the pen for taking handwriting notes. I use Quill (you can get it for free here: http://code.google.com/p/android-quill/downloads/list), and HandyNote. But I'm reducing this load because it is difficult to search the content of handwriting text (with out handwriting recognition). And it's not easy to copy/paste them to other docs. That's not good for my purpose of tracking/reorganizing the notes later. But there are some app for handwriting recognition such as WritePad. Maybe they are good if one practices enough.
In addition, I guess the pen is very useful for people who enjoy drawing.
About the Flyer's competitors from price/(pen)productivity aspect, I don't see any at this point. Maybe there will be some in a year or two. MS Surface is promising but it will take time till the app support from the developers get to an adequate level with Android. Or maybe Apple will start to adopt real stylus and keep suing all Android OEMs, who knows..
I hope it helps.
freworld said:
Its actually a kinda rule in mobile tech field and allied, to not compare gadgets with age difference more than an year (in fact 6 months)
So kindly don't compare a quite way-back-released Flyer/View with latest Nexus and note 2/3 etc
My advise, HTF flyer is one of the best-all-in-one device you would find around (in fact a very few are there)
I can keep counting on features and its usability and fill up a page or 2, with REAL-LIFE uses with just a 1 Real-Portable-Device in your Jeans/Trouser/Coat Pocket (and not in a another BAG( which is actually pseudo-portable)).
If short of money, GRAB it quick. Believe me the major rate dip and stuff for this Product is already done/over. The current prices will remain till the inventory(which is already low) gets over (except you knock off some bargained deal with a seller). If you are thinking of some stop gap arrangement (with regards to your win8 tablet..better don;t). Wait a few months..win8 pro would be out in jan 2013. Get a
MS surface pro...and if you like like Win 8, SURFACE PRO would be really a great product (Hope you are saving money for it; Price would be 2-3X times the flyer's cost)
Personally i really like MS surface PRO (not RT)
If have money and cant live without flaunting Newest OS (FYI Flyer runs Jellybean too but not with all functions AON) and Gadget to friends and allied, go for other options. Yes there are some better options and the list will keep adding with time (and more money you are ready to spent)
I advise getting a Flyer than Evo View, if you are looking to replace your phone too.(and cant carry multiple devices)
P.S. Just some experience, in case that helps. I am not a "lets-buy-a-new-phone/tablet" guy just bcoz options are there and money is there in my bank account. I always RIP a product when it is missing/making me difficult to handle some new technology/function which i/associated people need or it BREAKS down.
When i bought My HTC KAISER back in 2007 (For 600$(including shipping) importing a Tmobile MDA vario III version to my country as there were none available here) i knew i made a good choice.
That new design and functions served me for some 3 years without me feeling much to shift over EXCEPT some screen real estate shortage(which gets short with each passing year given the fact how bigger handhelds are becoming) & resistive screen
& then i bought the FLYER (after waiting for its Initial 700$ price to come down to 370$) and i knew that price is worth it for a 7 inch Capacitive HTC's Beautiful tablet with Wifi, 3G, GPS, Dual Cameras, 32Gb+Slot Storage and the Hidden GSM phone(the deal breaker for me). It has replaced my phone too HTC KAISER (which still looks at me the same way.... sometimes when i need to lend a phone to someone(with all functions working and just wear n tear damage))
Also see how i substituted a 600$ product with a 370$ product after 3-4 yrs & latter being a more smarter, more useful and lot more productive product
Thats how technology works and changes & also how usage of product/s changes!
Personally, now, I use it as my All-in-one device
- Mainly for Phone,
- Quick Internet browsing (using Wifi at home & 3G Sim outside)
- GPS
- Voice recorder for notes(in professional work) & life voice-logs(when alone)
- a Drawing Pad for my nephew (They say the "magic" Pen is great)
- Full fledged Alarm Clock
- To-Do List Reminder
- my Music Portable (Home, Office and Travel(Airplane; Trains etc)) Esp. over Wireless Stereo BT headset
Including playing my music in Car using Aux/Drive/BT input (esp. when Days of CD/Discs are long gone)
- my Video Portable playing 720p HD videos with proper 16:9 Ratio(Home, Office and Travel(Airplane; Trains etc))
- Gr8 Games when i feeling bored
and Mind you ...if 7 inch real estate is small ...get a HDMI out and you would love the stuff on a big LED or Projector screen.
- Measure Distances & Heights (Smart Rule App)
- Taking Database Backups of my blogs and websites
- Torrents
- Wifi Hot spot for other gadgets
- Occasional Written note taking (kinda to do list only) . Scribe Pen is so handy (Mine came free/included with Flyer)
- Voice controlled Commands (Still researching Voice assistants like Speak to it & utter and they are FASCINATING)
- and the list is endless with what not can be done with loads of USEFUL and PRODUCTIVE apps available esp. after ROOTING the device into a Fully-Controlled (Beautiful-)Beast!
and
LoVVVe it.
(My only gripe (for the money and beautiful device this is).. is why HTC didn't put a flash in and may be they should have added a larger battery. Camera is not good in low light & buttery runs out soon when i use these many functions )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Couldnt agree more and glad I got my for christmas
Expansys.ie were doing good deals on them, less than 250euro, which is one of the cheapest places I've seen them retail for new
Simple, the flyer is a capable device that was thrown to the side immediately after release. It performs well enough to be functional at most task but does little great. For me it is a better device than a nexus 7 because the nexus is stripped of allot of functionality the flyer has. If you want to be up to date with software do not consider this device. If you are looking for a small screen tablet that is versatile this is probably still the best option although I have not spent much time with the galaxy tab 2.7
A frustrating device for me because I enjoy its abilities but miss the tweaking custom rom aspect of a device that has good after sale development from the OEM
Flyer
mcord11758 said:
Simple, the flyer is a capable device that was thrown to the side immediately after release. It performs well enough to be functional at most task but does little great. For me it is a better device than a nexus 7 because the nexus is stripped of allot of functionality the flyer has. If you want to be up to date with software do not consider this device. If you are looking for a small screen tablet that is versatile this is probably still the best option although I have not spent much time with the galaxy tab 2.7
A frustrating device for me because I enjoy its abilities but miss the tweaking custom rom aspect of a device that has good after sale development from the OEM
Flyer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, thank you guys so much for all the good input! I think I'm gonna try for the flyer -- seems like a good budget way to try things, particularly the pen. I'm hoping that I can start to use it as a scratchpad of sorts, in addition to reading scanned notes (I write large so hopefully the 7" screen is adequate even when my writing gets shrunk). The lack of usb otg (at least, without an external power source) is a slight shame, but hopefully i'll be able to live without via bluetooth and the cloud.
Also, I didnt know that the Flyer could be used as a phone! Is this through 3G VoIP, or does it actually have a cell radio?
Happy new years guys!
Both
EnPaceRequiescat said:
Also, I didnt know that the Flyer could be used as a phone! Is this through 3G VoIP, or does it actually have a cell radio?
Happy new years guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then you indeed missed a major function of this beast. Through 3g Voip as well as Cell radio
Happy new year to u too. Get yourself a gift
P.S. USB OTG issue is also a minor gripe... exact situation is being discussed here ( with possible options including USB -Y cable)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1082909
I would not recommend spending your money on any tablet or smartphone device that is over 20 months old. The specs are not even last gen, they are 2 generations old.
That said, there isn't much better in the 7" form factor. I love the 7" tablet size. But unfortunately, the manufacturers have relegated this size to the budget/low-spec end of the spectrum. Mostly thanks to the low priced Kindle Fire HD and Nexus 7. And Samsung has joined the "race to the bottom" with its mediocre spec'ed Galaxy Tab2 7.0. The technology of smartphones has left 7" tablets in the dust, its such a shame.
Unless the pen functionality is really important to you (I personally never use it on the Flyer) I'd probably go for the Nexus 7. Yes, its missing some big features. But its simply much better supported by both its manufacturer and the dev community. This forum has become quiet as the grave. So you won't even get much of a community here to chat with or get help if you want to root and S-Off, flash ROMs, etc. Yes, there are still a few devs that soldier on, and other community members still trying to keep this forum alive. But the Flyer's best days are long gone.
I don't regret a bit buying the Flyer when it first came out way back in the summer of 2011. And I still use it every day. But if I didn't already have the Flyer, I wouldn't buy one now. Probably I would get a Nexus 7, wait to see how good the 7" Note is, or wait to see if any higher spec 7" tablets are on the way (doubtful).
I agree with most that has been said. If you want/need the pen and want 7"... get a flyer/evo view. I have a view and use it almost daily for writing. I always had notepads and sticky notes all over the place, now its all within lecturenotes (sweet app).
If you think you'll "maybe" use the pen... get a nexus or other 7".
I use the crap out of the pen and am looking to get another flyer/view for a friend as a gift.
Only if you really need the pen should you consider the GTab 7 2 or HTC Flyer. Having played with both I think the better option now is the Samsung model. But again, only if you really need the pen. If you can live with a capcitive stylus go with a Nexus 7. It will be supported for a long time to come and will always be on the latest OS
/*
AidenM said:
Only if you really need the pen should you consider the GTab 7 2 or HTC Flyer. Having played with both I think the better option now is the Samsung model. But again, only if you really need the pen. If you can live with a capcitive stylus go with a Nexus 7. It will be supported for a long time to come and will always be on the latest OS
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Click to collapse
Hmm, the galaxy tab2 7? Doesn't that only use the capacitive pen? also, it seems like i can't find that secondhand anywhere, and new costs $200, so I feel I might as well get the nexus7 if I'm foregoing the digitizer.
I'm also the kind of person who had notepads and sticky notes all over the place, and notes involve math that say, swype is not good for (though it is quite fast), which is why the digitizer is a big draw. But from the comments people are giving, and how fast technology is moving, it seems like it's almost better nowadays to just buy new (so... the samsung note7 whenever that comes out), just like how I can't imagine buying secondhand computers these days.