Hey guys,
After being an avid iphone user during the past 4 years, I'm finally making the plunge into the android world today.
I've been eyeing the note 2 for quite a while as I've had people who've used note 1 and loved it.
I was wondering if any of you guys can help me with the transition?
I've already moved all my contacts and calendar to gmail.
Anything else I can do to get things ready for the transition? Also any apps/widgets you can recommend that go GREAT with the note 2?
I want to dive RIGHT in, but without much prior experience in android phones I feel that I may get lost... and would LOVE some direction. Thanks!
Pictures and files to dropbox is always convenient
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Welcome to Android!
Android and Apple are very different animals!
You will find customizing, syncing, transferring and saving everything much easier. I recommend checking out the Note 2 screenshots and homescreen threads for widget ideas. Many people post their current setup and will gladly share.
The sheer amount of available customization and capability may seem overwhelming ( especially coming from the Apple ecosystem !) Spend plenty of time in your phone. Do not be afraid to explore. And remember: Always backup your phone before taking any plunge! It is so easy to backup your phone and restore it if something borks. The beauty of Android!
Soon you will be the one helping out the next New-To-Android guy!
Apps I'd recommend:
Adblock Plus - prevents loading of ads on wifi. if you root, it will work over 3G/4G too
Chrome
Contact-sync - syncs your facebook friends statuses and profile pics. the official facebook app syncs horribly small pics that look very blurry when you get a call
Disable Increasing Ring - the ring on the note 2 is very quiet for the first second and then jumps to whatever volume you have set. this disables that.
Drive - to take notes on and automatically have anywhere.
Dropbox - picture backup
Equalizer - equalizer for music that works over bluetooth. if you don't use bluetooth for music, the one that comes with the phone probably is fine.
Flashlight - uses camera LED, don't bother with ones that use a white screen
Gameboid - if you liked Game Boy Advance games
Grand Theft Auto
HD Widgets - many different home screen clocks and weather widgets to choose from and customize. it also allows you to get to your alarms, timer, calendar, etc from touching parts of the widget.
Minecraft
N64oid - N64 emulator
Swiftkey 3 - much better keyboard than stock imo - especially in landscape. all the buttons are bigger, it has smiley shortcuts, and you can change the time for long presses
Thanks guys for all your input!
Just one question... I don't have unlimited data... Will using dropbox take up a big chunk of my data usage? Could I have it set so that it syncs only when I'm on wifi?
And all these programs that you're mentioning that allows me to customize the ringtone etc... do they take up space in ram? e.g. are these things something that runs in the background or something that "unlocks" different options?
It's just so different with apple where phone settings are set.. and nothing can be changed. Thanks!
iamnamja said:
Thanks guys for all your input!
Just one question... I don't have unlimited data... Will using dropbox take up a big chunk of my data usage? Could I have it set so that it syncs only when I'm on wifi?
And all these programs that you're mentioning that allows me to customize the ringtone etc... do they take up space in ram? e.g. are these things something that runs in the background or something that "unlocks" different options?
It's just so different with apple where phone settings are set.. and nothing can be changed. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can set Dropbox to upload during wifi or wifi & data.
The ringtones can be changed in settings. Are you talking about a ringtone maker or trimmer?
Everything can be changed!
iamnamja said:
Thanks guys for all your input!
Just one question... I don't have unlimited data... Will using dropbox take up a big chunk of my data usage? Could I have it set so that it syncs only when I'm on wifi?
And all these programs that you're mentioning that allows me to customize the ringtone etc... do they take up space in ram? e.g. are these things something that runs in the background or something that "unlocks" different options?
It's just so different with apple where phone settings are set.. and nothing can be changed. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ringtone program takes up ram and is running, but is like 350KB or something like that and takes no noticeable amount of processing. We have 2GB of ram o it really doesn't matter. It also will stay up as a notification, but if you hold the notification and hit "app info", you can then uncheck the show notifications box and it will be invisible.
iamnamja said:
Thanks guys for all your input!
Just one question... I don't have unlimited data... Will using dropbox take up a big chunk of my data usage? Could I have it set so that it syncs only when I'm on wifi?
And all these programs that you're mentioning that allows me to customize the ringtone etc... do they take up space in ram? e.g. are these things something that runs in the background or something that "unlocks" different options?
It's just so different with apple where phone settings are set.. and nothing can be changed. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You never jailbreak your iDevice? As someone who has owned an iPhone 4, it was the greatest thing I have ever done with my phone besides switching to Android.
Please read forum rules before posting
Questions go in Q&A
Thread moved
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Related
Ohhh, you brave souls... haha
I was in the o2 shop this lunch having a play with their live unit (well, except it had no SIM or web connectivity. for this type of phone that's pretty limiting!)
some questions i was unable to get help with, i am hoping you have more experience of, before i consider the device further:
1. SMS display. i much prefer the look of iPhone's SMS "dual conversations" - its very clear which side of the chat is which and generally more friendly and usable. can the x10's change to this type of layout? rather than listing each reply above or below each other. found no options in the main settings area from the home screen (not sure if the context-specific settings under messaging is any different...?)
2. mac compatability. is this possible? can it sync properly with itunes? does it use a 3rd party app to do so? could this be "culled", ala blackberry/palm syncing with itunes? does the x10 appear as a mounted usb volume? (in this way, i could use applescript to manage the library - horrible, but it might work). someone with actual experience here with a mac would allay my fears, rather than commenting it might be possible (sorry if that seems abrupt in advance...)
3. other syncing needs. i guess most other aspects for sync'ing are removed/negated with an android handset - are we as users supposed to follow the "cloud computing" google-masterplan? do others sync with desktops and for what purpose?
4. browser/app zooming. the device doesnt have multi-touch (plenty covered on this, and other forums!) but, the iPhone has other methods of navigating around the browser and apps. i.e. double tapping a block of text, which i would consider a single fingered gesture. as the test unit i was playing had no web connectivity i couldnt test it out - can someone comment?
here's hoping for advantageous answers
jingo_man
1. use Handcent SMS , can make it look 100% like iPhone sms
jingo_man said:
...............
1. SMS display. i much prefer the look of iPhone's SMS "dual conversations" - its very clear which side of the chat is which and generally more friendly and usable. can the x10's change to this type of layout? rather than listing each reply above or below each other. found no options in the main settings area from the home screen (not sure if the context-specific settings under messaging is any different...?)
...............................
3. other syncing needs. i guess most other aspects for sync'ing are removed/negated with an android handset - are we as users supposed to follow the "cloud computing" google-masterplan? do others sync with desktops and for what purpose?
4. browser/app zooming. the device doesnt have multi-touch (plenty covered on this, and other forums!) but, the iPhone has other methods of navigating around the browser and apps. i.e. double tapping a block of text, which i would consider a single fingered gesture. as the test unit i was playing had no web connectivity i couldnt test it out - can someone comment?....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Well, probably the handcent sms thingy, never tried it tho.
or you could go into contacts and find the contact there. When you go there the sms messages are listed in a simmular way as on the iPhone.
You on the right hand side
and you friend on the left..
3. I have just used the Cloud sync method to be honest, haven't really bothered to do it in any other way. But there is probably a way to do it.
4. The zooming is no problem to be honest, the double-tap to zoom thing works good enough. So I have to say that I kinda like it Even tho the multi-touch zoom was handy every now and then..
1. handcent works fine on this phone, and has customisable colours and themes.
2. can't comment on mac, but it is APPARENTLY possible to sync with itunes for the PC through iTunes Agent. I know this won't help you but it might help someone else reading this later.
3. cloud seems to be the way forward, and it works great on the x10. when you first plug it in to the usb though you get the option to install some sony ericsson syncing software, which is the same as i used for my c902 to transfer all my contacts to gmail for this phone. it is pretty simple to use.
4. the default zoom on the android is nice to use. browsers like dolphin (available from the market) come with their own zoom, but i disabled this cos the x10 seems to handle it nicely natively.
hope that helps
1. handsent sms. hmmmm... that does look more along the lines that i was thinking for layout/design. but i'm guessing this wont play nice with the timescape app, which seems pretty central.
i thought i went into the individual contact at one point, and it had the same appearance as when displayed under the general. i may make a return visit to the store to check that out...
i dont think i would mind using separately bought apps, but 1 of the biggest selling points seems to be the timescape so not sure i'd want to miss out on using it. though might change once i have used it for a while...
2. here's hoping eventually a mac user stumbles across this thread and is in a giving mood about their experience.
3. cloud syncing. suppose i can get onboard. not a massive issue not to rely on desktop software. i guess this means no-one really sync's it with a desktop then?]
4. glad of the double-tap zoom, atleast thats something. and its generally how i start to zoom on iPhone (in the browser) but how does this work in other apps? i.e. google maps cant double tap, as there's no "frame border" to sync the tap too...
this could a deal breaker for me, for this product. not a massive app user, but love web browsing on these devices when out-and-about. fine control offered by pinch/zoom far more refined and easier to use than the clunky zoom button, which just didnt seem to refresh fast enough to make it smooth...
maybe wont get onboard with all these bits until i consistently use the device, but not paying best part of £500 to find out!
please continue with more insights if you got 'em
2. mac compatability. is this possible? can it sync properly with itunes? does it use a 3rd party app to do so? could this be "culled", ala blackberry/palm syncing with itunes? does the x10 appear as a mounted usb volume? (in this way, i could use applescript to manage the library - horrible, but it might work). someone with actual experience here with a mac would allay my fears, rather than commenting it might be possible (sorry if that seems abrupt in advance...)
hi, Mac user here. Yes it mounts like a USB-HDD, and turns off in the phone. So you can transfere files, and then just unmount it. Transfered 7 GB of musik files, no problem.
jingo_man said:
1. handsent sms. hmmmm... that does look more along the lines that i was thinking for layout/design. but i'm guessing this wont play nice with the timescape app, which seems pretty central.
i thought i went into the individual contact at one point, and it had the same appearance as when displayed under the general. i may make a return visit to the store to check that out...
i dont think i would mind using separately bought apps, but 1 of the biggest selling points seems to be the timescape so not sure i'd want to miss out on using it. though might change once i have used it for a while...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
even with that installed, the other messaging app still runs. handsent simply becomes the default. this means that when you load up timescape, it pulls in the messages from the standard messages app and works like a charm.
its a shame we cant just use the screen under the contact to send a message, that looks pretty good. click onto a contact, and scoll along at the bottom, past call log, onto messaging. that is a sweet screen.
jingo_man said:
2. mac compatability. is this possible? can it sync properly with itunes? does it use a 3rd party app to do so? could this be "culled", ala blackberry/palm syncing with itunes? does the x10 appear as a mounted usb volume? (in this way, i could use applescript to manage the library - horrible, but it might work). someone with actual experience here with a mac would allay my fears, rather than commenting it might be possible (sorry if that seems abrupt in advance...)
3. other syncing needs. i guess most other aspects for sync'ing are removed/negated with an android handset - are we as users supposed to follow the "cloud computing" google-masterplan? do others sync with desktops and for what purpose?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Salling Media Sync for iTunes sync http://www.salling.com/MediaSync/Mac/
Adress book and iCal has support for google sync, just enable it in the prefs and then everything syncs from google.
Just enter your gmail details.
the web browser on this thing is amazing really. renedering is smooth and pages launch instantly. i am very impressed with the web browser and with the added extra of using dolphin you be on to a winner. web browser on this is better than my N1
you mean like this...?
jingo_man said:
Ohhh, you brave souls... haha
I was in the o2 shop this lunch having a play with their live unit (well, except it had no SIM or web connectivity. for this type of phone that's pretty limiting!)
some questions i was unable to get help with, i am hoping you have more experience of, before i consider the device further:
1. SMS display. i much prefer the look of iPhone's SMS "dual conversations" - its very clear which side of the chat is which and generally more friendly and usable. can the x10's change to this type of layout? rather than listing each reply above or below each other. found no options in the main settings area from the home screen (not sure if the context-specific settings under messaging is any different...?)
.....
here's hoping for advantageous answers
jingo_man
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont know about all the other questions, but did you mean something this? (Oh, crap! Where is my image? Ok, no image, dont know how to get one into this post)
I mean from it you see exactly who is on which side of the conversation
I HATE mini apps on my Galaxy Tab 10.1...
That feature alone is enough to make me want to return the device.
Seriously? Why would Samsung want to decide for me my what apps I want at my finger tips? Then not only that, they use their own cheesy versions of available apps. I have already found the solutions I want to use through my Android phone. I want to carry over the same apps to the tab so that my experience is a little less fragmented.
The "mini apps" constantly get in the way. I'm brushing against the bottom bar causing the apps to pop up... none of which I ever use, completely unintentionally. Annoying! If I could only decide what apps showed up!
Total pain in the REAR!
Then Samsung loads on a bunch of unnecessary software. I HATE having 5 apps that do exactly the same thing on my device... The abundance of music players is asinine. Having three book programs (none of which you can remove) is stoopid.
Why can't you get a piece of hardware without the software all screwed up by the vendor these days?
Why is root necessary every time I put my hands on an Android device to make it useful?
Why can't I purchase an Android product with a Google backed Vanilla version of the current OS installed?
Why?
Why?
Why?
I'm so pissed that this $600 tablet requires an additional 15 dollars in apps and a good 6-12 (or more) hours of set-up time and research to get it properly rooted and operating the way I like it.
Sorry... that made me feel so much better.
Maybe an ipad would have been a better choice for you. I like tinkering with my toys so I chose the tab.
I HATE mini apps on my Galaxy Tab 10.1... do YOU?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may have opened the mini apps tray 3-4 times unintentionally (in the 10 weeks I have the tablet) and I use the "calculator" mini app quite regularly. So no, they don't bother me but I wouldn't miss them if they were gone either.
SGPMan said:
Maybe an ipad would have been a better choice for you. I like tinkering with my toys so I chose the tab.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Them there are fighting words...
I enjoy tinkering as well. I have loved customizing my original Incredible and now Incredible 2. They have an excellent following with a lot of very reputable ROM "artists". However, their original UI wasn't that bad to start with. And with the CM nighties, my phone is near perfect.
With the Galaxy Tab 10.1, my initial experience (3 days) I have found it to be laggy and glitchy, which I was shocked about. I want this tab to work for me, but it seems that I'm trying awful hard to make this work. I think it's the fact that my phone is setup so well and runs so well... I figured the tablet would be so much better. I set my expectations high, only to be disappointed so far.
I have rooted and removed a bunch of unnecessary apps, but haven't figured out how to remove that dam mini app bar. As far as custom ROM's go... I haven't loaded any since I am still trying to figure which has the best reputation for stability and speed.
I am trying to figure out something, other wise by Thursday this thing is headed back to Best Buy. Sad thing is... I don't want an apple device, but if that's what is comes to, then I will retire my Android phone as well to keep everything streamlined. Sucks!
gokpog said:
I may have opened the mini apps tray 3-4 times unintentionally (in the 10 weeks I have the tablet) and I use the "calculator" mini app quite regularly. So no, they don't bother me but I wouldn't miss them if they were gone either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Real Calc regularly, a donate (paid) app which can handle higher level math functions. I wish I could just substitute it in place of the basic Samsung/Android version.
Agree with you, mini-apps are boring me every time i wanna play a fullscreen game, like "fruit ninja thd"... This "rolling dock" is not a great feature.
SGPMan said:
Maybe an ipad would have been a better choice for you. I like tinkering with my toys so I chose the tab.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, the reason most of us choose Android is that we aren't forced into "one man's vision" and have the ability to choose for ourself. The mini-app bar forces us into one company's vision. I have to agree with the OP about this.
We should at least have the ability to turn it off.
Meh...it's there, it's unobtrusive, and at least my experience with it is that I really have to try to get it to come up when I want it. Have never accidentally brought it up. Sometimes the calc and the memo pad are useful.
Can't see why people hate it so much.
MMcCraryNJ said:
Meh...it's there, it's unobtrusive, and at least my experience with it is that I really have to try to get it to come up when I want it. Have never accidentally brought it up. Sometimes the calc and the memo pad are useful.
Can't see why people hate it so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So...
Try a vs party on "Fruit Ninja THD", you'll see ^^
Just hide the status bar with this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1265397
problem solved!!!
I actually don't mind having mini app tray. I use task manager, calculater and memo pad for taking notes from web regularly. The only thing I don't like is accidentally hitting the screenshot button. But I totally agree with the original post. An option to turn it off would be nice.
Personally I like them. Two of them I use on a daily basis. Most of the others occasionally.
JHeal77 said:
As far as custom ROM's go... I haven't loaded any since I am still trying to figure which has the best reputation for stability and speed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Task360/Phantom "In Paris"
v.2 works great for me, but v.4 is coming "soon"(tm)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1284355
Really not a massive fan of them being there tbh, but I don't accidentally press the button (not like the screenshot one...grr!) and I don't use the apps in it. I just ignore it and get on my way.
If there was an option of getting rid of it though, I would.
I found this thread while searching for a way to at least configure this menu bar... unfortunately it looks like the whole thing is embedded in the ROM and the only way to hide it is to patch the ROM and/or completely replace it (thanks for the links in the thread).
I fully agree with the OP on a lot of his rant. This is an awesome peice of hardware that comes out of the box with some insanely bad software. I'm still deciding on what launcher to replace the stock version with, but so far both Go and Launcher Pro are tons faster, more configurable, and better looking than the laggy default version that doesn't even let you use the full display.
The status bar menu is kind of a nice idea, but the execution is terrible. If I could configure what apps and quick commands I wanted on the menu and easily hide it, it would be a great feature.
But as it is, the choices of what to put there seem really bizarre. I can't for the life of me figure out why "screen shot" was deemed important enough for most users to justify space on an "always on" menu. I have to routinely go delete unwanted screenshots taken by accidentally brushing that menu option.
The choices of what to put on the quick launch app menu are even worse. Holding the "home" button on the main menu for a couple seconds pops up the task manager so why do I need a whole other button dedicated to pulling up this app? The world clock is just plain terrible compared to other clock apps. The calander is alright, but there are better widgets out there that serve the purpose better than a quick launch menu. The memo and calculator are again terrible and need to be replaced by 3rd party apps so you should be able to replace them on this menu too. The music player is the only one of the apps that serves my purposes, but again there are better 3rd party apps and you should be able to configure what is on a system wide quick launch bar.
From the perspective of an average consumer the out-of-box experience is fairly poor due to the OEM software rather than the hardware or system software. It should be easy for a user to fix this with simple market based apps and configuration options rather than having to apply warantee voiding ROM patches and rooting the OS. Allowing OEM's to "lock" bad software is a really bad policy. If an OEM wants me to use their software, they should develop or license best in class versions of those apps rather than locking the software on the system and forcing me to root the system to get rid of poor quality software.
You can disable all of these functions with some XML editing if it really annoys you that much
I'd happily do all these changes for you for a little donation of just a couple of quid
Try one of the sweet new cm9 kangs, I'm on the 7500 version. So much better then tw honeycomb.
I Agree!!
hate it so much, but now on overcome rom,
its at least slightly less annoying. just ever so SLIGHTLY.
at least in this rom, a swipe upward wont activate it.
wont disturb me during fruit ninja.
but still sometimes press it when i wana press spacebar.
stupid piece of crap tray.
the motorola xoom already has ICS.
samsung will be the slowest tab to get it cos of this touch widz.
Sometimes i feel sorry for samsung.
i have a hunch there is some kind of conspiracy goin on at the back,
where google force manufacturers to implement their own skin. (why else would samsung waste effort to make rubbish that people dont want?)
and google can sell their overprice nexus device to make money.
just imagine, if samsung can sell or upgrade the galaxy S2 and note with the pure and stock vanilla android, and upgrade them to ICS without touch widz, would anyone buy galaxy nexus?
nexus has lausy hardware. last gen GPU and horrible camera. (not due to the 5MP, but generally a weak camera compare to S2 and note)
Luv'em why we have android
Pop up windows that are independent of screen, getting closer to desktop experience. I would like to swap some out but overall, (calc, note, calendar, calculator, & music player) work great. Allow true multitasking.
I just installed OverSkreen which gives me a windowed web browser on top of screen. I really like them.
I am on an ICS KANG version by Mabalito
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1461240
With this ROM, I don't have a bottom row of mini apps.
I am using GO Launcher EX HD
http://golauncher.goforandroid.com/2012/03/go-launcher-hd-v1-0-beta/
With the launcher, I able to hide the bottom bar whenever I want.
This is awesome when I watch video and play games
Hello I would just like to ask the users that what applications are a must have I would like your top 10 and also excluding rom.manager and titanium back up.
Thanks for your input and time do explain a little about the application as well. Thanks
Sent from my SGH-T959 using xda premium
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1269070
Sent from my T959 using XDA App
I'll take a shot at this. This is not any any particular order. Just the order that it popped up in my head as i thought about this.
1. Google Music (free) - google music is one of the handiest apps that I have. I'm able to access all 15,000+ songs in my library remotely, and my computer doesn't have to be on. I used an app called subsonic before, but it required you to run your computer as a server which meant your computer had to be on. With Google music, you upload it to their servers once, and then you can access your music from any mobile device/computer. the downside of this service, though, is that it takes a long long long time to upload. perhaps it got better since i first used it but just know that it'll take a few days to upload anything if you have a large library of music
2. Pandora (free) - If you ever get bored of your own music and you're looking for new artists, pandora is great. I'm sure you already know about this service and everything they do already, but one of the things I really like about pandora is that the sound quality of their songs are pretty great. sounds good when i'm biking with my headphones on or if I plug it in the auxiliary. I always catch myself being impressed with the quality.
3. Power Amp ($5) - my last recommendation having to do with music. This is a great music player with lots of customization and sound control. You can't go wrong with buying this app. I especially enjoy the ability to fade in and fade out of songs when i'm skipping through them. pay for it and support the devs that put the time into this app because he definitely deserves it. free trial is also available.
4. Netflix (free with subscription) - Why wouldn't you get this if you already have a netflix instant account. free app plus you get the entire netflix library from wherever you are. I've been having some A/V sync issues with it lately but i haven't tested the new update. I'm sure they'll get it all straightened out in time. I have definitely been waiting for this app for quite some time and I'm just really thankful we have it now.
5. DoggCatcher ($7) - This is a bit pricey but if you listen to a lot of podcasts, this is the best app by far. keeps everything very neat and organized. does a lot of cool automatic stuff like only downloading podcasts when you're on wifi, or when you're on wifi and charging. This also supports Presto ($4) which allows you to listen to podcasts at variable speeds.
6. Amazon appstore for Android (free) - You can't get this on the market but just google it and get it on your phone because they give you a free app everyday. it's like woot for apps on your phone but it's free. the free apps can be very crappy or very good. Another plus is that all app purchases, free or paid, are linked to your amazon account so you own them forever.
7. Paypal app (free) - My friends and I always cover each other for food and expenses and this app makes it easy to pay each other back. Requires you to have a paypal account linked to you checking account but as good as cash itself. BTW, make sure you link it to your checking account and not your credit card or else you will get transaction fees. no fees when you use your checking. Also, the app comes with a bill splitter so you can easily split bills, even if it's not split evenly.
8. Handscent (free) - I use this app over the default texting app with the metallic theme. Looks nice and you can also do a lot of customization. my favorite thing is the quick reply texting feature.
9. Alarm Clock Plus (free with ads. $2 ad free) - alarm clock that's a lot like other alarm clocks in the market but i like that when it goes off, you can change the snooze timer right after you hit it instead of setting the snooze before you sleep. sometimes, i just want 10 more minutes of sleep.
10. Thumbkeyboard (one of amazon's free apps but about $3 on the market) - keyboard is really based on your preference but i like some of the layouts for this keyboard. It was weird at first but i found myself typing really fast using the "split - Compact layout" with a lot less spelling errors and autocorrect errors"
1) ES File Explorer
Allows easy access to every file on your phone as well as access to LAN connected computers to easily transfer files over WIFI. Does everything you'd want a file explorer to do including everything Root Explorer does.
2) Ringo Lite (or Pro)
Allows you to change not only the ringtone for individual contacts, but also the SMS notification sound for contacts as well. Many different apps do the former, but this app is the only one I know of that can do the latter.
3) Voodoo Control (or Plus)
Tweaks the sound system on Galaxy S phones to be more on par with a true audiophile experience. Allows crystal clear headphone amplification far beyond the phones meek default levels. Under MIUI/CM7, also controls the color settings for the screen allowing black and white level tweaking and color balancing. If your kernel doesn't support it, the plus version will give you access anyway.
4) SetCPU
Voltage tweaking program that has allows for the creation of profiles. Common profiles are screen off or low battery settings that reduce CPU levels to conserve battery. Works well for undervolting and overclocking the CPU as well as changing around the governors. See my signature for my own personal settings after hours of tweaking.
5) Stopwatch & Timer
Self explanatory, simple program.
6) Swiftkey X (paid app, price varies in the $2 to $3 range)
Keyboard that not only predicts the current word with great accuracy, but the more you use it, the more often it correctly predicts the next word, and the word after that. After a month or two of use it will frequently predict entire sentences correctly beginning from only a couple letters. An excellent keyboard for those who prefer being correct over being lightning fast.
I can't even keep it to 10. I think all the Google apps are must haves for Android, Google Music, YT, G+, GVoice, Maps, Chrome To Phone, Docs, etc, so I won't include them in my list; which is in no particular order.
Zeam Launcher
Twitter
Pulse
GPS Status
Barcode Scanner
Gentile Alarm
PicSay Pro
Quick Pic Gallery
SGS Kernel Flasher (although I'm pretty settled now)
Swype Installer for Beta
Postagram
Evernote
Handcent
I'll add one, almost, guilty pleasure app: TV Listings. I don't watch much tv, but when I do, I check out the listings here instead of my cable box.
While I like and have most of these, they are mostly "tweaker" apps (no pun intended). What about some fun apps? Games, videos, themers...
One of the apps that isn't in the above list that I have is Moboplayer. It is an HD video player that has decent GUI but great video res and playback. My video player of choice.
Another one is ZipThemer. It lets you take downloaded metamorphs and cluster whatever grouping you want and packages it into a nice clean single update.zip. It also creates an undo.zip in case what you made doesn't turn out like you thought it would. I've used it on other phones and it works on vibrant too. Can piecemeal your own theme by taking pngs and xmls from others and creating your own customization.
kaintfm said:
1) ES File Explorer
Allows easy access to every file on your phone as well as access to LAN connected computers to easily transfer files over WIFI. Does everything you'd want a file explorer to do including everything Root Explorer does.
6) Swiftkey X (paid app, price varies in the $2 to $3 range)
Keyboard that not only predicts the current word with great accuracy, but the more you use it, the more often it correctly predicts the next word, and the word after that. After a month or two of use it will frequently predict entire sentences correctly beginning from only a couple letters. An excellent keyboard for those who prefer being correct over being lightning fast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These two as well as:
-A better launcher (I like ADW)
-Pure Calendar Widget(agenda)
-XDA Premium
Titanium Backup Pro
SetCpu
Voodoo Control
Sent from my XDA app cuz I'm stalking your mom....
As a long time android user (since the T-Mobile G1 so about 5 years) i decided to try the Lumia 920 a few days ago and so far i`am loving it, so here are my first thoughts :
- The speed and lagless performance of the OS powered by a dual core cpu instead by a quad- or octocore cpu that is required for android. Clearly the OS and hardware are far better optimized than android. Also i had no reboots or fc`s so far.
- Many specific Nokia apps like Drive that enables navigation without a data connection required as you can download and install maps from the country`s you need.
- Seemless integration and synchronisation with Google and great data/contacts/calender transference when setting up the phone.
- Though there are obviously less apps available than with iOs and android there are many more than i initialy thought and most good and important apps are available. Only Dropbox is limited imo as it doesn`t sync and add automaticaly.
- Great camera and speakers.
- Good call quality.
I didn`t think it was going to be as good as it turned out so far but atm i don`t miss android at all and so i might stick with WP8 for a long(er) while than i anticipated.
Hope the coming update planned for July will bring some more goodies
if any problem with Google sync, simple set Google account via advanced setup
settings - email+accounts - add an account - advanced setup
- add your account info
- select Exchange ActiveSync
- add other data (dont forget to enter full email address for username), for server use m.google.com
- Sign in.... that's all
for calendar's problems look Microsoft advises
http://microsoft-news.com/sync-google-calendar-events-to-windows-calendar-app-via-outlook-com/
P.S.
Also must have app for WP is Store Deals to check latest discounts and occasional free periods for pay apps
Don't know what you mean about seemless integration with Google Calendar. Can't edit it at all. I had to follow Microsoft's tip and subscribe to it via Outlook.com but you can't edit the Google calendar that way as it is read only. Email and contacts are great. Hopefully the update that includes CalDAV support will fix the calendar issues.
Spectre51 said:
Don't know what you mean about seemless integration with Google Calendar. Can't edit it at all. I had to follow Microsoft's tip and subscribe to it via Outlook.com but you can't edit the Google calendar that way as it is read only. Email and contacts are great. Hopefully the update that includes CalDAV support will fix the calendar issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you use Google calendar which i don't changes you make on the regular calender on the phone will sync to the google calendar and vice versa if you change google calendar on the PC. Just use the normal calendar on the phone and it should sync with your other calenders linked through google or hotmail.
Solarenemy68 said:
If you use Google calendar which i don't changes you make on the regular calender on the phone will sync to the google calendar and vice versa if you change google calendar on the PC. Just use the normal calendar on the phone and it should sync with your other calenders linked through google or hotmail.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry I was getting my windows devices mixed up.....It is working for me on WP8 just not Windows 8
Agreed in everything.
worst problem I found in WP8? Whatsapp...not always updating, got the notification but not the message....and we really need a good video player with mp4, avi and srt support.....and a notification center.
Any MS guy ever read this forum?
ramping said:
Agreed in everything.
worst problem I found in WP8? Whatsapp...not always updating, got the notification but not the message....and we really need a good video player with mp4, avi and srt support.....and a notification center.
Any MS guy ever read this forum?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
whats app working fine for me... no missed or late notification....
also avi and mp4 files work fine... and dont except or hope for srt (or any other subtitle) player... f you hope for this, you not learn anything about WP....
dxdy said:
whats app working fine for me... no missed or late notification....
also avi and mp4 files work fine... and dont except or hope for srt (or any other subtitle) player... f you hope for this, you not learn anything about WP....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
YXPlayer can play videos with srt subtitles....but it´s a crappy app.
Still waiting for the VLC official app.
Anyone expiriace any problems with whatsapp?
Mobtel063 said:
Anyone expiriace any problems with whatsapp?
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Click to collapse
I don't use it; I use Skype and MetroTalk. Skype's not free but I'm not going to worry about paying on average $60 a year; $5 a month. It doesn't require my universe to have the identical app on the other end.
Quick question...
I really, really, really detest my Xperia S now, like really detest it.
The lagging, god-awful camera, the freezing, everything.
I would try to install a custom Rom, but my Bootlocker unlocked allowed is: no.
I'm really not a high-end user. No interest in games, or intensive apps.
Camera, browsing, travel apps are the main interest for me.
I can get rid of it and pay approx £60-£100 to get the Lumia 920
Would you guys advise it?
steevio_uk said:
Quick question...
I really, really, really detest my Xperia S now, like really detest it.
The lagging, god-awful camera, the freezing, everything.
I would try to install a custom Rom, but my Bootlocker unlocked allowed is: no.
I'm really not a high-end user. No interest in games, or intensive apps.
Camera, browsing, travel apps are the main interest for me.
I can get rid of it and pay approx £60-£100 to get the Lumia 920
Would you guys advise it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the 920 to replace the xperia t I had, best thing I ever did
It's fast, fluid, no freezes or hangups, battery life is great for me, the camera is awesome and I love the wireless charging.
If you can live without the modding and just use your phone for what it is then I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Sent from the event horizon of a quantum singularity
steevio_uk said:
Quick question...
I really, really, really detest my Xperia S now, like really detest it.
The lagging, god-awful camera, the freezing, everything.
I would try to install a custom Rom, but my Bootlocker unlocked allowed is: no.
I'm really not a high-end user. No interest in games, or intensive apps.
Camera, browsing, travel apps are the main interest for me.
I can get rid of it and pay approx £60-£100 to get the Lumia 920
Would you guys advise it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been an iPhone user and then a multitude of android phones user (Samsung) before embracing WP8.
My opinion: iPhone is fine if you just want a phone that works - although Apple lost me after the release of the iPhone 4: I was obviously holding it wrong when I wanted to make a call so it mostly wouldn't iOS is simple to use and has lots of apps, but is a walled garden.
Android, while open and extremely customizable, really annoyed me: at first the phones were fine, then became laggy over time. I also found I was frequently rebooting the phones daily. You shouldn't have to install a custom ROM for it to work smoothly. While there are a lot of apps, they are mostly poor quality compared to their iOS counterparts.
So I decided on trying out WP8 around 4 months ago and bought a Lumia 920. First off the build quality is excellent, it's a solid lump of a phone, not tacky plastic feeling like the Samsungs I had. The operating system has NEVER lagged on me...EVER. I only found out a few weeks after I'd had it how to reboot it, and I only did that to find out how to, not that it needed it. Although not nearly as customizable as the androids, I personally got bored doing so with the Samsungs anyway. I love the Live Tiles on the Lumia 920. Again there are nowhere near the amount of apps as iOS or Android, but those there are I find to be as good as iOS apps.
The camera is excellent. So good in fact that when my other half wants pictures taken she asks me to do so - she has an iPhone 5.
At first I was worried by the fact you cannot use a memory card, but honestly I find the 32gb onboard to be plenty - never had to go through and delete stuff to make more room. An added bonus is the wireless charging - I still think it's witchcraft :laugh: no idea how or why it works but it does lol
So in summary, yes - I thoroughly recommend the Lumia 920 for your needs: the camera is great, the stock browser is quick and I never had a problem with it and navigation is top notch.
Thanks so much for your replies.
I have had the phone for 4-5 days now and I am absolutely delighted by the decision. Possibly the best hardware change/update I've ever made.
I am finding excuses for taking pictures, such is the quality of the camera, enjoying getting to grips with the new layout and O/S, trying to find decent apps for certain things I used on Android, the main one being the notes app, which was sat on my Android home screen and I used regularly as a 1 click solution to add a note and remind me of things.
Something like that, as a simple live tile would be great, but haven't found such an app yet. (Any you guys suggest?)
I was initially very concerned by the battery life. I took it out with me after an initial charge and found the battery draining away at an alarming rate, even with it in my pocket!
But as I'm sure you're well aware, there's the changes to remedy this;; turning NFC off, location, background apps, getting used to exiting an app with the back button etc.
Great battery life now.
Just ordered a case and I'm one happy bunny!
My god, the Xperia S seems like a distant nightmare now! :victory:
Hey there guys, I have a question first and foremost.
If an app updates daily, is there any way to make an app still be able to be updated online daily, while also having the functions to work while you are offline?
There are many people that travel, and don't have internet or phone service while they are commuting or waiting for someone or something, relaxing at home, at a campground in the wilderness, or underground in the subway, or maybe even up high on a mountain.
If there is a way to make this work, I would like to know what you guys and gals would suggest on what to do to get this started.
Some of the requirements of my hypothetical project would be as follows;
Needs to retain the Daily Update Feature so that the app can withdraw from the Happy Colour Server.
Has to have some working code workaround where a certain allotment of storage space can be used to store the app data (including the scrolling and entering the Picture that you want to color and complete) on a device.
(Currently, you can scroll the app for a little while and the coloring options will appear, but when clicking on a selection, it is not able to load.
That's pretty much the jist of it.. if you guys can give me suggestions or even remark on if this can be done, that would be great. I know that it would take some work, but if it seems like its plausible, we can see where this thing goes as a team and maybe make it a paid project really depends on how much work would need to be done.
Thanks to those of you that have read this and really looking forward to hearing your ideas and thoughts.
-MCrandall