Galaxy S3 sold Xperia Z or Galaxy S4? - Galaxy S III Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Well i finally said goodbye to my Galaxy S3, will i miss it nope not at all, mainly because it suffered from both dust issue's around the edges, and had probs with 32GB sandisk memory cards, other than that it been great.
Now because of the probs with the Galaxy S3, I'm tempted to skip Samsung this time around & head over to the Sony camp with the Xperia Z, what i seen so far it nothing short of brilliant, looks like Sony have really got their act together now, just hope they also get their act together when it comes to future updates aswell.
BUT
There also a small matter of the Galaxy S4 in the next couple of months, the thing that will put me off the Galaxy S4 if the design is based around the Galaxy S3, i don't want to have another smartphone suffer from dust around the edges again, as this pissed me off no end, but i'm a fan of touchwiz I loved the last update on the Galaxy S3 like split screen ect, and I've no doubt they improve touchwiz again with more new features on the GS4.
Then we got the specs, which will probably blow the others out of the water, but will it matter on Android 4.2.1 as the others will also have simliar specs ie Quad core 2gig of ram 4G ect, all very capable of running latest version of Android in 2013 and into 2014.
Also the camera is an important feature to me as i tend to use it alot, Sony really has a good camera on the Xperia Z with HDR video recording, picture quality is top notch aswell, going off what i've seen on Flickr.
On the Galaxy S3 the camera for a smartphone was superb, the lowlight feature that was added in the latest update is nothing short of brilliant i think.
I think the Galaxy S4 will probably use the same Sony Sensor that used in the Xperia Z unless they decide to make their own that is.
But eitherway camera is gonna be good.
I've got a hard decision to make over the next couple of months to get either the Sony or hang fire until we see what the S4 gonna be like.
In the meantime with the money sat in the bank, I'm now using my Nokia Lumia 800 as my backup phone, which in all honesty isn't a bad little phone and makes for a great backup Smartphone.

Don't let the door hit ya on your way out.
Anyways, the Z looks nice but Sony is known to be slow with updates. Maybe the Z could run aosp nicely though.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

I'm with you. I'm waiting for the Z to be released in my country to buy it, it looks great and the specs are awesome.

Sony are very developer friendly, AOSP "aware" too. Samsung... aren't. Sony tend to get their hardware designs correct, Samsung struggle with basics like flash timings -SDS (even their own brand eMMC).
You decide. Pros and Cons for both, personal preference is the only matter.

GET the S4. the Z might look nice, but it's hardware is basically outdated. S4 PRO is a 2012 chip, not a 2013 chip. It also isn't REAL a15, so Tegra 4, Exynos 5, and the "s" series, s600 and s800 will beat da crap out of the s4 pro in the Z. But it's your choice, if you want already outdated hardware.. go ahead..

paintball23456 said:
GET the S4. the Z might look nice, but it's hardware is basically outdated. S4 PRO is a 2012 chip, not a 2013 chip. It also isn't REAL a15, so Tegra 4, Exynos 5, and the "s" series, s600 and s800 will beat da crap out of the s4 pro in the Z. But it's your choice, if you want already outdated hardware.. go ahead..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Outdated or not, it not gonna struggle with anything from Android this year, or next year for that matter.
Tell me one thing that the S4 pro will have problems with software wise?

ixon2001 said:
Outdated or not, it not gonna struggle with anything from Android this year, or next year for that matter.
Tell me one thing that the S4 pro will have problems with software wise?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it'll be outdated. just wait for the first coming comparisons with the S4 and Z. I can guarantee you that the S4 will blow the Z out of the water, reason why, is that it'll have a REAL a15 SoC.

ixon2001 said:
Outdated or not, it not gonna struggle with anything from Android this year, or next year for that matter.
Tell me one thing that the S4 pro will have problems with software wise?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will struggle surely next year
sent fromXperia sT21i
Everything stock

Here is your answer Sony released kernel source for Xperia Z before the phone is even available for purchase https://www.xda-developers.com/andr...ce-released-prior-to-worldwide-device-launch/
Go for the Z.

Kernel source isn't much dude... But good job trying to market for Sony. Besides they are required to do that anyway by GPL. They need processor data sheets, the binaries source.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using xda premium

Related

Sony Xperia S - Dilemma

Hello everyone.
I'm at rly big dilemma right now. So, I'm wondering if i should buy Sony Xperia S or Galaxy Note 10.1. The most important thing is that i have to decide till 30.11 because there's an promotion in my shop. Xperia S + Euti with keyboard in one price.
The main question is that i won't make a big mistake, mainly im concerned about Sony's support for Tabs. I'm sure that Samsung won't leave Tab just like that without any updates and most of developers are now working with Galaxy i guess.
SO, do You think that Xperia S will get updates and developers will take care of that model? Because my friend with older one is very disapointed about Sony's updates, etc.
Thx for any answer and sorry if i did topic in wrong section.
The xperia tablet s is no developer darling. Far from it. Sony is extraordinary slow on updates. My local support didn't even know if jelly bean were "in the making" for the xperia. But official, international Sony has confirmed it. But considering devices like the Motorola zoom allready got jelly bean, despite being 2+ years old, Sony is really not a particulaly good OEM, when it comes to updates. About the tablet it self : really bugged. Really bad software, mediocre battery life, and filled to the brim with bloatware. Fortunately, root access has been achieved, so that can be dealt with. Design and feel of the tab is awesome, but software wise, it's close to disaster. Far from finished.. I say, put your money on a nexus 10. Same price, better specs, vanilla Android and better support from google and developers alike. Just my 2 cents.
Sent from my SGPT12 using xda app-developers app
Yes I tuner to the Xperia this tablet is not for programmers and adventurous. But the Xperia Tablet is a very very useful device - top is the display and the processing - up to now I just noticed a bug - Standby Wifi Bug ... but otherwise everything works super - I have when buying and I'm also expecting no desire to torment me with Custom Roms have more bugs that have been adapted from programmed Hobbyprogs /. Previously I had an LG V900 and the LG IPAD2 there was only one update us .. but from 3.0 to 3.1 and there was already ICS out then the device is not supported in any further a USB connection without function and not a fix. Samsung is not exactly famous for its updates only when the new series - when the unit is 2 years old it was then with updates ... Also, the Google phones and tablets not convince me ... In the end it's like with all things, there is nix perfect one must always make swab ... I already have the Xperia S phone and am very excited so I decided for the Xperia S Tablet ... and I have not regretted it or not root task of the manufacturer is to close the gaps and has the Sony made​​ you can not even be angry ... and JB is certainly the end of January 2013
Ryumari said:
Hello everyone.
I'm at rly big dilemma right now. So, I'm wondering if i should buy Sony Xperia S or Galaxy Note 10.1. The most important thing is that i have to decide till 30.11 because there's an promotion in my shop. Xperia S + Euti with keyboard in one price.
The main question is that i won't make a big mistake, mainly im concerned about Sony's support for Tabs. I'm sure that Samsung won't leave Tab just like that without any updates and most of developers are now working with Galaxy i guess.
SO, do You think that Xperia S will get updates and developers will take care of that model? Because my friend with older one is very disapointed about Sony's updates, etc.
Thx for any answer and sorry if i did topic in wrong section.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with Raedek
Premium feel, awesome design and above average display. It could be a winner if not for the buggy software. I couldn't get past the random shutdowns while watching movies or in sleep mode. I've had a positive experience with the nexus 7 so I tend to agree with the suggestion to go with a Nexus 10. Good luck with your decision
Personally I wouldn't touch the Sony S v2 tablet.
I made the mistake with the first Sony Tablet S when it was heavily discounted only to learn that this tablet has very poor developer support: no ROMs and can't even do a nand backup. Updates are also non-existent.
My Sony S is pretty much junk ATM IMHO.
My advice would be to avoid and go for something that is more widely supported (i.e Xoom or Samsung tablets) by developers.
Good luck.
Ryumari said:
Hello everyone.
I'm at rly big dilemma right now. So, I'm wondering if i should buy Sony Xperia S or Galaxy Note 10.1. /QUOTE]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally disagree with all the comments here which seem to come from people that owned the previous tablet, but not the S2.
I don't spend my money lightly and after last years model, I wanted to be sure this was the right tabletl before I spent money on another Sony product.It wasn't the wrong choice, the Xperia Tablet S is a fantastic bit of kit, I don't have any bugs with mine (or bugs that affect me) and it wasn't purchased because of the development support.
If you want development, go with the Nexus 10, but if it's not development you want, the Xperia Tab is for you. Have had it since day 1 and love it!!!
The xperia tablet s is no developer darling. Far from it. Sony is extraordinary slow on updates. My local support didn't even know if jelly bean were "in the making" for the xperia. But official, international Sony has confirmed it. But considering devices like the Motorola zoom allready got jelly bean, despite being 2+ years old, Sony is really not a particulaly good OEM, when it comes to updates. About the tablet it self : really bugged. Really bad software, mediocre battery life, and filled to the brim with bloatware. Fortunately, root access has been achieved, so that can be dealt with. Design and feel of the tab is awesome, but software wise, it's close to disaster. Far from finished.. I say, put your money on a nexus 10. Same price, better specs, vanilla Android and better support from google and developers alike. Just my
2 cents.
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Click to collapse
Agreed. Battery life excluded. I like the device, I own it, but it can be underwhelming at times. Personally, I don't like the Nexus 10. Feels cheap and the outstanding specs, like screen resolution and contrast seem subpar comparing to the Xperia Tablet S, even though it embodies half the screen resolution. Seems silly, but that is what I see.
The xperia tablet is one of the best currently on the market. The only android tab that could outdo it in my mind right now is the nexus 10 because of the awesome display and ram...but no sd card slot so if you want lots of storage you have to pay 500.
Sent from my GT-P7500 using XDA Premium HD app

Galaxy Note 3 , will you buy it?

I'm patiently waiting for the c6806 but now that the galaxy note 3 is being announced and will be out early October , i might just jump ship and buy the note .Waiting for the LTE version is just painfully slow!
Build quality & the display is too small.
In the end the hardware pro's (ram, slightly higher clocking, cam) of the SGN3 are not compensating this for my requirements, as the performance of the XZU is still astonishing and i'm using my phone only for snapshots.
But your case is exactly showing the becalming situation Samsung has - people love to buy it anyway.
i almost bought the c6802 and live with the 3g connection but im pretty sure i'll be banging my head if the LTE version comes out,blaming myself that i should have waited .
LTE to me is the now technology and 3G is just not acceptable in my vocabulary .
jacktherapper00 said:
Build quality & the display is too small.
In the end the hardware pro's (ram, slightly higher clocking, cam) of the SGN3 are not compensating this for my requirements, as the performance of the XZU is still astonishing and i'm using my phone only for snapshots.
But your case is exactly showing the becalming situation Samsung has - people love to buy it anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
100% agree with you in every aspects. I even if was waiting for the LTE version would never go for a Note 3. Those phone only can be compared on the performances. Size and build quality are really different.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
Absolutely not.
I've seen the conferences yesterday, and both Sony and Samsung haven't entertained me.
I mean, Sony has great products but tends to lay them out without any heart at all.
On the other end, Samsung has no innovation at all, but from their point of view it seems they're presenting the Holy Grail to the public year after year.
I have an S3, which is a great device, but on the right and on the bottom the "metal" bezel cut itself for no reason at all. It is 1 year old. And I paid FULL PRICE for this. And by full I mean that it costed me almost as much as a 6833.
I don't want Samsung to fill me with bs telling me the SPen is excellent, that the battery is interchangeable, that this, that that. I already know all that.
And i don't give a damn anymore.
ZU is progression, SW2 too, hell even the SBH52 impressed me more than the N3.
I'm gonna get on board with Sony, and whenever I'll see a guy with his Note 3 I'll say "Hey man, nice phone, I hope you're happy with what you got", not feeling envious, not feeling sorry for not buying it.
Because in the end, what YOU feel with your phone matters, not that extra 0.1ghz or that 1gb of ram.
Let's face it, about 1 out of 1000 Note3 or S4 users will root or even use their device to the fullest. The rest of them will simply feel happy that they can update their Facebook status saying 'I have a Note 3! Sweet! ", until they're not happy again when their friends buy something more powerful/stylish/popular.
I prefer being a 1 percenter, with a device that makes me smile, than being a 99 one, with the regret that I could have bought something more.
But hey, that's just my 2 cents.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
If you love development.. Samsung is really awful.. Sony is another level man
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androidindian said:
If you love development.. Samsung is really awful.. Sony is another level man
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are 2 face on that medal you know...
On one face, Samsung hasn't always been keen with developers, not releasing sources and all, BUT thousands of people buy those, and as a result a lot of developers choose the device they develop on based on popularity, and on the fact that developing there would be more of a challenge.
On the other face, Sony has always been open with the developer community, but their popularity has started to grow big not that long ago, so we might have on the ZU the same level of devs there are on the Z.
As a matter of fact, some of them already started (just take a look on the Android development section), and that is even before the LTE version launched.
Let's wait for UK, US, Germany, France, Italy, Spain etc. all have this device on their shelves, I have big expectations.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
well, after viewing the Note 3 "coming out" party yesterday, I decided I am not interested in it...
I had a note 1, and a Note 2, which was a major upgrade to the note 1.
Fantastic phone, and I was hoping the Note 3 would be a major "upgrade" as well; but, the only upgrades, CPU speed, 3 gigs of Ram, and 13 MP camera isnt going to make the experience on the Note 3 that much better than the note 2.
I've been watching the Xperia Z Ultra since it came out, and, it looks like a fantastic phone; I am a big guy, so the size doesnt scare me, but I am waiting to see which US carriers will be carrying it.
I have owned at least 50 cell phones in my life, but mysteriously, NONE of them have been Sony phones, but I think this will change in the next 30 days.
It doesnt seem like there is alot of development on this phone yet, but, since many note 2 owners feel similiar to me, I am certain that there will be a large groupl that will move to this phone, once some US carriers are announced.
The quality of this phone seems fantastic; not sure if no flash for the camera will affect picture quality, and, hopefully, easy root/bootloader unlocking is just around the corner, since the sound from that tiny speaker appears to be lousy as well, but nothing that ViperMod or a different kernel wont fix!
The main problem SGN2 had and SGN3 as per first hands on, pics and vids also seems to have is, that - even if it is already to small for me as an Note 2 user - they're not making proper use of the screen size with view to UI on stock ROM.
In the end the Note 2 was and is just a sized up Galaxy.
And 2nd market (custom roms) is not a criterion on this topic for me, because if i have to customize the the product from day 1 to meet my needs, then there's something wrong and i'll better wait for the right deal.
wase4711 said:
well, after viewing the Note 3 "coming out" party yesterday, I decided I am not interested in it...
I had a note 1, and a Note 2, which was a major upgrade to the note 1.
Fantastic phone, and I was hoping the Note 3 would be a major "upgrade" as well; but, the only upgrades, CPU speed, 3 gigs of Ram, and 13 MP camera isnt going to make the experience on the Note 3 that much better than the note 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another user on another forum posted that maybe a real change will be seen when all S3s end their contract.
That's true for the S4 (they sold a lot less than what they were expecting), I was expecting it and I didn't fall for that.
That's true for the N3 too, as is a specced up S4 with SPen functions.
It will sell regardless of all this thoughts, but I could bet 1 out of 5 previous N2 owners will buy this N3, and the other 4 will scout around for a better choice or wait for the N4.
That's what I was planning to do skipping the iPhone 4 for the 5 (having the 3G), but Samsung stunned me with the S3 and I jumped ship.
I waited for a big change from the S3 to the S4, but I was ready to wait for the N3 this time.
Sony stunned me since they presented the ZU, I fell in love and that's it.
The only thing that would make me love even more this device would be having a stock-Google Play Edition.
That would be AWESOME.
Last but not least for the fact that we won't need implementation for the SPen, because the screen accept pens and pencils on its own...
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
My friend and i were avid samsung users. We both had NOTE 1 then i sold it bought htc one x then sold it again and he too sold note and we both bought Note 2. Note 2 was a great device but design was my only grudge against it. Then in april i bought sony xperia z and now have htc one. And i swore that i wont fall in samsung bad design good performance trap. Currently trying to sell HTC ONE and i will buy Z ULTRA. and my friend too will buy z ultra no more shameSuck for us we had it enough
Sent from my HTC One using xda premium
nope
dont like amoled, never preffered samsung as a name brand, and i am happy with ZU
although they did a good job of providing 3GB.. i guess they got more crap to add running in backgrounds
corrado85 said:
nope
dont like amoled, never preffered samsung as a name brand, and i am happy with ZU
although they did a good job of providing 3GB.. i guess they got more crap to add running in backgrounds
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree.....
corrado85 said:
although they did a good job of providing 3GB.. i guess they got more crap to add running in backgrounds
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This
My friend's S4 has no more than 250 free Mb all time...
You clean the memory, exit, return to manage the ram, it has even less memory left... :what:
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Leaving Samsung behind. Time to move on. I love my new z ultra.. build quality is awesome. Note 3 is great, but same old same old except for specs. Each their own.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
Pretty much agree with most posts. I've had the Note & Note 2 (using HTC One now) & the Note 3 doesn't do it for me. I really hate Touchwiz. Everything about it annoys me so I've run custom roms on all my Samsung phones. I don't use the s pen at all either so it just sits there.
I like the direction Sony are heading. I would prefer a smaller bezel but I really like the waterproof design & the minimal additions to Android.
I really don't see why Samsung are the Android leaders...
Nuwidol said:
Pretty much agree with most posts. I've had the Note & Note 2 (using HTC One now) & the Note 3 doesn't do it for me. I really hate Touchwiz. Everything about it annoys me so I've run custom roms on all my Samsung phones. I don't use the s pen at all either so it just sits there.
I like the direction Sony are heading. I would prefer a smaller bezel but I really like the waterproof design & the minimal additions to Android.
I really don't see why Samsung are the Android leaders...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Advertising, advertising, and advertising. Oh, I forgot about advertising.
They could sell a smart ring for your toe advertising it as the next companion for the summer for getting rid of fungus because it has a 5mpx camera that scans the pavement before you set your foot on it.
Everybody would simply love it.
Inviato dal mio Nexus 7 con Tapatalk 2
Nuwidol said:
Pretty much agree with most posts. I've had the Note & Note 2 (using HTC One now) & the Note 3 doesn't do it for me. I really hate Touchwiz. Everything about it annoys me so I've run custom roms on all my Samsung phones. I don't use the s pen at all either so it just sits there.
I like the direction Sony are heading. I would prefer a smaller bezel but I really like the waterproof design & the minimal additions to Android.
I really don't see why Samsung are the Android leaders...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually really like the bezels on my Ultra. Helps to hold when watching a movie etc
Sent from my C6802 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Hell yes...
More portable format, better camera, camera flash, SD card, removable battery, stylus built in, pressure sensitive wacom touchscreen, better hardware and software.
Basically, N3 is everything the Z wants to be...
FinancialWar said:
Hell yes...
More portable format, better camera, camera flash, SD card, removable battery, stylus built in, pressure sensitive wacom touchscreen, better hardware and software.
Basically, N3 is everything the Z wants to be...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah... remind me again why you're browsing the Z Ultra forum...?
You see, you're everything Samsung wants.
Go for it my friend, you deserve it.
Samsung wants to be the next Apple. Good for money at first, but look at the iPhone crowd now... oh yeah, these is no crowd.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

Sold my S3 and now looking for an upgrade

Hi guys, I just sold my S3 LTE , as I cracked the screen and didn't want to repair it. I was looking for upgrade before that, so now the time has come.
I need a device that is a bit more rugged, not necessarily waterproof and so on... I read that the S4 is even more fragile though.
Anyway. I'd really love a high end device, so I don't have to upgrade it for the next 2 years.
I don't play games but do a lot of browsing, emailing and other work related stuff. I have good cameras so the camera on the phone just needs to be OK, but It should bebetter than the S3. I'm now using an iphone 5 and while it's a marelously well build and fast, I'm not quite sure I could deal with it's quirks. I've been on Android for almost 6 years, so you get what I mean.
I'm looking at :
LG G2 16GB
LG Nexus 5 16GB
Galaxy S4
Huaiwei Ascend P6
HTC ONE
Anything else you might recommend, except for Sony...
axlastro said:
Hi guys, I just sold my S3 LTE , as I cracked the screen and didn't want to repair it. I was looking for upgrade before that, so now the time has come.
I need a device that is a bit more rugged, not necessarily waterproof and so on... I read that the S4 is even more fragile though.
Anyway. I'd really love a high end device, so I don't have to upgrade it for the next 2 years.
I don't play games but do a lot of browsing, emailing and other work related stuff. I have good cameras so the camera on the phone just needs to be OK, but It should bebetter than the S3. I'm now using an iphone 5 and while it's a marelously well build and fast, I'm not quite sure I could deal with it's quirks. I've been on Android for almost 6 years, so you get what I mean.
I'm looking at :
LG G2 16GB
LG Nexus 5 16GB
Galaxy S4
Huaiwei Ascend P6
HTC ONE
Anything else you might recommend, except for Sony...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LG G2 - Very Good Choice
Nexus 5 - Awesome (but not the best camera)
S4 - Sucks
P6 - Friend has it, not bad, but battery life is terrible
HTC One - Awesome.
Also, look into the Xperia Z2, another good option for you.
Personally, i'd go with the new HTC one.
Havoc-X said:
LG G2 - Very Good Choice
Nexus 5 - Awesome (but not the best camera)
S4 - Sucks
P6 - Friend has it, not bad, but battery life is terrible
HTC One - Awesome.
Also, look into the Xperia Z2, another good option for you.
Personally, i'd go with the new HTC one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really like the One too, but can you give some more details why would you choose it. And with the new model just around the corner - I'm no sure. I'm interested in the N5 too, bu tI'm put off by the small-ish battery
Friend of mine has the current One, played with it quite a bit. Its just everything i would want in a phone. Its really well made, fits very comfortably in your hand. I'm a fan of IPS LCD over AMOLED. Operations are much smoother and faster than Samsung. Blinkfeed is awesome (for me personally) and you have all the freedom of Android with a very good display incased in a very good body. Also i dont really need crap like airwave and air gesture, in fact, since 4.3 my smart stay barely works.
The One is just my personal choice, i think its the most balance between design, UI and performance. LG G2 isnt far behind. If you going to go with the One, u might as well wait for the new one. If you dont plan to get the new one, i'd probably go the G2 over the Old 1. The Snapdragon 800 will last u much longer than the 600 in the One (2013 edition) The G2 has IPS LCD as well and is very very fast. Only thing lacking is the aluminum body and blinkfeed. Also LG has a pretty good multi-tasking interface, it opens small windows of apps. I suggest you Check out YouTube for the G2.
Depending on how much you want to wait, you should definitely also consider the oppo find 7. This phone's a beauty in my eyes. Specs are great too.
Another interesting phone is the oneplus one with cm. Its going to be 5.5inch with the size of a 5 inch sony z1, qualcomm s800 and its supposed to cost less than 400$. Too bad that there arent any real pics yet and the release is going to be somewhere in Q2 of 2014. So, it can be 1 month or almost 3 :<
I would suggest you go for the All New HTC One or the Xperia Z2 ...both of the devices r going to hit the shelves with in weeks !!
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techno-np said:
I would suggest you go for the All New HTC One or the Xperia Z2 ...both of the devices r going to hit the shelves with in weeks !!
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not buying a Sony, that's for sure. The htc one is another thing, but I'm afraid it will be quite expensive at launch, at least that's the way it is where I live. The way I see things is I have two options - get the G2 now or wait for the M8, hoping it won't be THAT expensive
Check out the oppo find 7! Big, cheap, blows everything away
Havoc-X said:
LG G2 - Very Good Choice
Nexus 5 - Awesome (but not the best camera)
S4 - Sucks
P6 - Friend has it, not bad, but battery life is terrible
HTC One - Awesome.
Also, look into the Xperia Z2, another good option for you.
Personally, i'd go with the new HTC one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why does galaxy s4 sucks ? Although I do agree the design is same and somewhat boring especially when upgrading from s3 but its a practical design. For me, its best choice among the given choices, especially if you can get the qualcomm version, as its google play device so you have option to seamlessly put aosp roms. That negates the N5 advantage as it is..
For LG G2 and Nexus 5, you have limitation of fixed storage, do remember on 16GB devices you get only about 11GB of usable space. Also camera and battery on nexus 5 will be a downgrade for you coming from s3. HTC one although awesome design but has ultrapixel camera which didn't do very well and again a restricted memory.
gsw5700 said:
Check out the oppo find 7! Big, cheap, blows everything away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not an option. I'm getting a device from a local carrier, and they don't have oppo.
gsw5700 said:
Check out the oppo find 7! Big, cheap, blows everything away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mafioso said:
Why does galaxy s4 sucks ? Although I do agree the design is same and somewhat boring especially when upgrading from s3 but its a practical design. For me, its best choice among the given choices, especially if you can get the qualcomm version, as its google play device so you have option to seamlessly put aosp roms. That negates the N5 advantage as it is..
For LG G2 and Nexus 5, you have limitation of fixed storage, do remember on 16GB devices you get only about 11GB of usable space. Also camera and battery on nexus 5 will be a downgrade for you coming from s3. HTC one although awesome design but has ultrapixel camera which didn't do very well and again a restricted memory.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only reason I'm not sure I want the S4 is that it's deemed even more fragile than the S3. It's slower chipset is also a bit of a disadvantage.
I can get the qualcomm version, so yes - vanilla OS is possible.
As for the G2 - it's awesome and I don't think storage will be that much of an issue. The HTC one is also an option, but the same as S4 - slower chiset and I hera the camera just sucks, but I have a DSLR and a mirrorless camera so I'm not going to expect much from a phone camera anyway. I'm using the iphone 5 now and while typing on it is a real pain, the size is really nice refresh fromthe huge slate the S3 was. I really miss the huge screen though.
The whole thing is quite complicated, as my wife has the RAZR I, but wants an Iphone, so I got one to test it out while waiting for my next android, and I actually like it a lot but the battery is basically on par with the S3, but the screen.... it's so small. It's superior when it comes to actally using it as a phone.
Which one of these handsets is most durable when dropped? I think the g2 would have a bad time due to edge to edge design.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
axlastro said:
Which one of these handsets is most durable when dropped? I think the g2 would have a bad time due to edge to edge design.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iphone 5s for durability.
For me:
1-Note 3
2-Sony Z2
3-Iphone 5s
4-S4
This year I am leaving my S3 also and this is the list of devices I am targeting of buying from !!
I will get one of these bad boys --->
1. Note 3 (appealing in every aspect)
2. HTC ONE 2014 (has microSD card support)
3. Xperia Z2 (Sony really stepping up their game)
4. iPhone 6 (a really good phone for basic telephony)
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk
I recommend nexus & S4 from the point of view of a good battery and high specs and features, Also the nexus 5 has good feature which is wireless charging, The S4 has higher features than the nexus as usual samsung strikes with stunning technology.
-Mina
I am getting a new phone in two months. Got an S3 now. This is my top choices :
1. Note 3
2. Xperia Z2
3 HTC one (2014)
4. S5
Very difficult to choose
I'm between n5 s4 and g2 for now...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Mafioso said:
Why does galaxy s4 sucks ? Although I do agree the design is same and somewhat boring especially when upgrading from s3 but its a practical design. For me, its best choice among the given choices, especially if you can get the qualcomm version, as its google play device so you have option to seamlessly put aosp roms. That negates the N5 advantage as it is..
For LG G2 and Nexus 5, you have limitation of fixed storage, do remember on 16GB devices you get only about 11GB of usable space. Also camera and battery on nexus 5 will be a downgrade for you coming from s3. HTC one although awesome design but has ultrapixel camera which didn't do very well and again a restricted memory.
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i know a few people with S4's, both versions. They both completely suck. In all honesty, the design isnt that bad, it looks very similar to the s3 but the feeling is alot better. However, Samsungs OS skin just down right fails. The ui is laggy, and please dont say theres no lag. i dont know how people dont notice this crap. The UI lags. Maybe the galaxy s4 google play edition, is a viable option.
There is literally nothing that the S4 has over its competitors. If you compare it to the HTC one (2013), then really, the One beats it hands down. You really dont need crap like the air wave.
SGH-m819n galaxy mega running the megafire v5 rom. Ive had two people literally sell their note3 after seeing how big and fast my phone is. 60 dollar truly unlimited unthrottled LTE data on tmobiles network though metro is a pretty nice perk, too.

[Q] Xperia Z Ultra or Note 4?

So I am waiting for the Galaxy Note 4 next week Spt 3, and released specs and everything look good, but what turns me off from the phone is the rather small display. I mean 5.7inch is stupid I think, they could have at least made it a 6" as I was hoping for.
The Xperia Z Ultra has a 6.4" display and the specs are still good, only came out last year. I am a very lite user, I don't play games or use many Apps, just mainly for phone and texting.
What do you guys think, I can get it for $370 CAD no tax or shipping from U.S via eBay brand new unlocked, is it a good phone? Or am I making a mistake not getting the Note 4 and going for a slightly older phone?
I would really appreciate any feedback you can provide, thanks!
Torguy said:
So I am waiting for the Galaxy Note 4 next week Spt 3, and released specs and everything look good, but what turns me off from the phone is the rather small display. I mean 5.7inch is stupid I think, they could have at least made it a 6" as I was hoping for.
The Xperia Z Ultra has a 6.4" display and the specs are still good, only came out last year. I am a very lite user, I don't play games or use many Apps, just mainly for phone and texting.
What do you guys think, I can get it for $370 CAD no tax or shipping from U.S via eBay brand new unlocked, is it a good phone? Or am I making a mistake not getting the Note 4 and going for a slightly older phone?
I would really appreciate any feedback you can provide, thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would go with the Ultra (only as the wife has a S4 and I hate it). As you say the specs are still good, and Sony's software is fast with not too much bloat. Also note that it is easy to root and flash custom ROMs to - although some people seem to have real trouble
Z Ultra from me, the best value for money smartphone now:good:
I've owned the Note II and perhaps less relevant the Galaxy Nexus, but I can say the Z Ultra, after being quite wary regarding Sony, is the best smart phone I have owned. It's big and beautiful and has an understated, yet classy look. It's super thin and shines on both the hard- and software side. Samsung is a step down, with its ugly and tacky plastics, let alone the horrible Touchwiz. The ZU is still a beast with the SD 800 cpu and destroys everything on its path. Take the plunge, you won't regret, possibly for years to come, if you wanted to.
Signed: an ex-Samsung believer
I'm using a note 3 now and am planning to shift to an xperia z ultra because I'm looking for stock android. For conversion to gpe and back, which model version should I buy? Lte or non lte?
How is the speaker quality of the device? All the reviews indicate it as soft. Is battery life better on the gpe?
No camera flash for z ultra was a deal breaker.
xManMythLegend said:
No camera flash for z ultra was a deal breaker.
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Click to collapse
I dont see it as a dealbreaker. Sure i cant look at some pipes in the dark, which i had to do quite few times past 6 months, but as a device its quite ok without the flash. Mayby its also, cause i see camera as least important functionality in a phone, but let that be another discussion.
As for the general question, I think Note 4 will be preferred choice, I love my Ultra, seriously best phone in the market at the very moment imo. But thats the thing, Note 4 is generation up and thats a big thing. Another aspect that really speaks for samsung is that they actually put some thought - why do we go for such a big screen on this bloody thing, which i feel is lacking on Ultra.
I was between note and Ultra when note 3 launched, but the overall feel and my emotion was better on Sony, tho note came close with its trough thought phablet feel.
joulukas said:
I dont see it as a dealbreaker. Sure i cant look at some pipes in the dark, which i had to do quite few times past 6 months, but as a device its quite ok without the flash. Mayby its also, cause i see camera as least important functionality in a phone, but let that be another discussion.
As for the general question, I think Note 4 will be preferred choice, I love my Ultra, seriously best phone in the market at the very moment imo. But thats the thing, Note 4 is generation up and thats a big thing. Another aspect that really speaks for samsung is that they actually put some thought - why do we go for such a big screen on this bloody thing, which i feel is lacking on Ultra.
I was between note and Ultra when note 3 launched, but the overall feel and my emotion was better on Sony, tho note came close with its trough thought phablet feel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the Z ultra provided any Spen functionality OR a camera flash I would have gotten it. To me that was two points. But everyone has different needs I can easily see why Zultra was a superb choice.
I would consider the new Z3 Tablet Compact if the size is deemed acceptable. Even if I had the Note I and II, I would not another device in that series mostly because of all restrictions Samsung has put up such as efuse, limitations on "right" and "wrong" flashing of stock ROM (i.e. efuse goes off if you downgrade through Odin etc not to mention custom ROMs), unstandardized hardware (different CPU/GPU depending on market), carrier branding (unlocked devices not available unless importing), region lock and so forth. TouchWiz is also a complete dealbreaker in those L times.
The S-Pen is a great concept, though but is so linked to TouchWiz that most of the features are lost if a AOSP/CM is flashed. Because of all those items on the list, I avoid their devices as a plague. It doesn't matter what features they include in their TW ROMs since I consider TW just horrible.
I consider the Ultra to be a great device still and in most cases preferable over Samsung products but it has been in the market for one year now. On the other hand: it is still unsurpassed as a complete package when it comes to screen size and so forth.
It is also worth to mention that the Note series use 480 DPI phone mode so arguments like "it use the big screen better" is not valid. The Ultra runs 240 DPI phablet mode well with the GPE ROM and multi window etc is easily fixed through Xposed Framework.
I dare to say that the Ultra + 240 DPI + GPE ROM + Xposed Framework blows the competition out of the water software wise. The only competitors with a similar experience is the Nexus line or OnePlus One with CM11S.
My personal planning for the future is:
1. Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact
2. 7 inch AOSP/CM phablets from other manufacturers
Since number 2 is very uncertain considering the lack of rumors about such devices, I am leaning heavily toward the alternative 1 since I made a mockup and deemed it acceptable from a carrying point of view.
If the Tablet Z3 Compact is considered too big, I don't see any better options than the Ultra at the moment. It still rules unsurpassed when it comes to large-screen tablet replacements.
Whatever you do, just stay the hell away from Samsung. Between the fugly TouchWiz, bloated software, KNOX warranty void, slow updates, I promise to myself I will never ever buy another Samsung device. Sure, flashing CM11 would fix all that problems, but you might as well just buy a Nexus 5 at that point as all the special features that make a Note device a Note device are gone.
Also, Samsung Note devices are not very mod/hack-friendly due to their proprietary S-Pen and digitizer driver, as well as numerous in-house parts that we just can't get the drivers for. A year later and we still can't get the NFC working correctly on the Note 3.
The Day Samsung Makes Note 4 with a 6.4 Inch HD Screen
The only day I will think of buying a Note 4 is when it is able to have the form Factor of a Z Ultra... No Phone with this config comes with this Form factor... Just love it!!

Samsung To Discontinue Galaxy Alpha Line

Samsung set to discontinue Galaxy Alpha in favor of cheaper phones
The*Galaxy Alpha*might have been among the best phones Samsung ever produced — it's certainly*the prettiest*— if it weren't for a couple of stumbles: the battery didn't last long enough and its full flagship price forced it to compete against better-rounded rivals. Now, just a few brief months after its introduction, the Alpha is reportedly being supplanted by its successor Galaxy A5, which will take over as the leading Samsung handset for the mid-range market.
ET News*reports that the*Galaxy A5, which launched in China last month, is being brought over to South Korea as part of Samsung's effort to "take the bull by the horns" and*reorganize its slumping smartphone division. The 5-inch A5 is a continuation of the Alpha's design philosophy, emphasizing thinness and higher-quality metal construction, though it opts for a tamer spec sheet that will allow it to be priced at a more competitive 400,000 won (roughly $360). The report states that the A5 will be arriving in Samsung's home country in January or February, while the Galaxy Alpha will be phased out as production ramps down once the current inventory of materials is exhausted.
http://www.theverge.com/2014/12/29/7459743/samsung-galaxy-alpha-discontinuation-report
too sadly,what worry me is updates
Hope they maintain the updates
Just read the article myself and copied the link and went to XDA to make a post about it. You did it before me.
It pisses me off tho. They finally started making a decent specced phone with a quality feel, somewhat at least. I was hoping they'd continue and perfect it with future models. A5 sounds like a device I would never buy. Specs wise I'm reluctant I bought the Alpha to start with. Exynos is just never good. But the phone itself is decent and I have no battery quirks. That prolly has something to do with me being very introverted and I spend like 2 hours a month on calls.
To me, having a decent community for my phone on XDA is also a huge factor. The problem to me with Samsung will always be their Exynos processors. It makes developing for the device so much harder. Now for the Alpha another problem rises, it will be discontinued so it's limited how many people will ever get their hands on one now since dropped prices and supply will go hand in hand and eventually there will be no more phones. I haven't owned a Samsung phone for years simply because they chose their own noob processor and I returned because of build quality. This was a bad decision from Samsung and I feel like they don't really understand. Making more mid-range devices will not make more sales for them. It never has. I work as an IT administrator and we actually use mid-range Samsung devices. People with iPhones and such report "sluggish" behavior. And all I can say is.. Yeah, when you've tried a decent processor it's hard using a handset that uses some old cheap processor for power. It just wont feel as fluent. Even the common end user will notice that a phone runs sluggish.
It's my last Samsung device (for the time being) and I'm somewhat sad cause the S2 and the Galaxy Nexus was my first two decently specced Androids back in the day when they released. I'm sad that Samsung can't get their act together and decide what they want from their phones. Oh well, I'm just ranting.
All in all I hoped for Samsung to continue the fashion with a nicely specced hanset with below 5 inch screen. Guess all we'll get is the A5 or a bigger S5/6 or a Note. I'm just sick of the hype around big handsets. I have my tablet if I want a big screen for something. iPhone has like 2 models atm. - Why can't Samsung just like kick out a ****ty phone, a nice small phone, and then some beefed up S5/6 and a Note for the people that demands a phone on roids. I don't see why you need so many different handsets. All in all it doesn't matter if you choose a S4 Mini or a Core Plus or a Young or a Neo. They are all horrible old devices and they will not be up to standards. Focus on one of them, give em a touch-up.
Sorry, sorry, sorry. Now I'm really worried that this device wont even see half of the dev that happend on the Tab Pro that at least got a CM12 Lollipop release. Sigh.
Merry Christmas guys, and a happy new year.
- @samsung ,you done slipped up again. Make up your mind.
As long as it gets the update to Android 5 I couldn't care less. The Alpha is a beast and I've been very happy with it even coming from an S5. This bad boy has done me just fine, waiting for an S6 with the same quality as the Alpha, Samsung had better deliver or I'll be looking elsewhere to devote my loyalty to.
On the other hand....that is good news....
If sammy stops alpha, it will get a high after-sales value, it will be a rare collectible device,
ofc im happy with it, i do not want my phone to be in everyone's hands
Very sad news , i am very happy with my Alpha and this is Perfect phone.
Just bought it 20 days ago.
Why they want to discontinue
I just ordered the note 4 and it should be here tomorrow. With the new thinner design philosophy the bigger phones don't feel that bad when holding them. The alpha was a nice phone but the lagginess really got to me. I came from the Nexus 5, once you go smooth it's hard to go back to laggy. The note 4's display is just phenomenal to, can't wait to get it. I wish they would have waited a few days to announce this though, now the value on this phone will go down like mad.
I guess it's no surprise since this phone had little impact in the west. I don't think I will ever buy a carrier exclusive phone ever again.
omg i will never buy anything from samsung ever again.I dont know what happening to me first i planned to buy the Z2 then my cousin said Sony is no good buy Samsung,instead I was like okay.Im buying The Alpha even though I never ever like samsung phone but this phone look really good.And now sam**** is doing this to all of us(the alpha's owner) but i hope we still got update from sam**** because in xda there's not alot developer for this phone
ps1:sorry for being rude im really piss of right now
ps2:sorry for my bad English
ps3:I will never buy anything from samsung company again
Sent from my SM-G850F using XDA Free mobile app
dara007_168 said:
omg i will never buy anything from samsung ever again.I dont know what happening to me first i planned to buy the Z2 then my cousin said Sony is no good buy Samsung,instead I was like okay.Im buying The Alpha even though I never ever like samsung phone but this phone look really good.And now sam**** is doing this to all of us(the alpha's owner) but i hope we still got update from sam**** because in xda there's not alot developer for this phone
ps1:sorry for being rude im really piss of right now
ps2:sorry for my bad English
ps3:I will never buy anything from samsung company again
Sent from my SM-G850F using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How RUMORS of samsung starting to stop manufacturing of galaxy Alpha impacts usability of the phone? It seems, that Alpha will have Lollipop update. :fingers-crossed:
I just don't get all the rage coming from you guys. At least in Latvia it seems to be more popular within youth than SGS5. And it is cheaper on contract (monthly fees) than SGS5 or Z3C.... Developers will do their work, just wait. Coming from Galaxy 3 (i5800) I can say that slow progress at the start leads to better community in future, still love that phone .... And yeah, at the end there were like 4-8 real developers (everything started with one guy who made several custom kernels and later ported CM ROMs to Galaxy 3, others came and gone over the years, but each left their impact on development for the device), some themers and few system optimisers, but progress they made TOGETHER for that phone in terms of speed and functionality was huge.
SBartacusX said:
As long as it gets the update to Android 5 I couldn't care less.
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Click to collapse
zarras said:
On the other hand....that is good news....
If sammy stops alpha, it will get a high after-sales value, it will be a rare collectible device,
ofc im happy with it, i do not want my phone to be in everyone's hands
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thoughts exactly. Android 5 and rare device should give me pretty good price, when I sell this on Q4/15.
will we get lollipop 5.0 update?
goranzdr said:
will we get lollipop 5.0 update?
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Click to collapse
Of course
goranzdr said:
will we get lollipop 5.0 update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We dont mm know.
Samsung has yet too announce anything.
And to people thinking their phone "rare" your not going to magically make huge profit. The phone is not sought after and its definitely not "rare", it has low production to meet low demand.
King p1n said:
We dont mm know.
Samsung has yet too announce anything.
And to people thinking their phone "rare" your not going to magically make huge profit. The phone is not sought after and its definitely not "rare", it has low production to meet low demand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah if the phone is rare its's very popular in the past and now it's discontinued or hard to buy. But this alpha is defferent i mean this phne is good at design and specs but price is abit high i think,no one really use it so it's not rare at all.Over all i love this phone but not Samsung.
Sent from my SM-G850F using XDA Free mobile app
This is bad news Lollipop update ok, but what's next? If Alpha will discounted after Lollipop we can flash CM or other custom ROMs, but they will not support heart rate monitor, LTE-A and fingerprint scanner.
Of course, this is a small sacrifice for newest software. But I would not want to lose these functions
Amaranth43 said:
This is bad news Lollipop update ok, but what's next? If Alpha will discounted after Lollipop we can flash CM or other custom ROMs, but they will not support heart rate monitor, LTE-A and fingerprint scanner.
Of course, this is a small sacrifice for newest software. But I would not want to lose these functions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it's not like Google is going to release something huge as lollipop in 1-2 years so wouldn't expect Samsung to support newer androids than that either.
If you want good android version support, you bought a very wrong device.
Ranking:
Best support = nexus devices. (and google versions)
Second best = flagships, like s5, with qualcomm chipset.
Third = other qualcomm chipset devices
Fourth = flagships with Exynos chipset (example our device)
Fifth = other Exynos chipset devices.
leripe said:
Well it's not like Google is going to release something huge as lollipop in 1-2 years so wouldn't expect Samsung to support newer androids than that either.
If you want good android version support, you both a very wrong device.
Ranking:
Best support = nexus devices. (and google versions)
Second best = flagships, like s5, with qualcomm chipset.
Third = other qualcomm chipset devices
Fourth = flagships with Exynos chipset (example our device)
Fifth = other Exynos chipset devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exynos 5430 is much better than s801 or may be s805 .
i have compared my Alpha with with friend's Xperia z3 , htc m8 , and all i can say is my is faster ,
i have compared loading time of Asphalt 8 , Brother in arms 3 , Gangstar vegas, modern combat 5 and all i can say is its loading faster on mine , s801 is no where nearer .
Also in multitasking , i found my Alpha more responsive , Fluid .
i never liked Nexus devices , used nexus 5 for 10 days , and ditched that Garbage looking and garbage feeling Stock android , and its having Zero functionality compared to our Alpha , if new Nexus 6 is For even 300 $ , still i will not get it :silly:
kktkaran said:
Exynos 5430 is much better than s801 or may be s805 .
i have compared my Alpha with with friend's Xperia z3 , htc m8 , and all i can say is my is faster ,
i have compared loading time of Asphalt 8 , Brother in arms 3 , Gangstar vegas, modern combat 5 and all i can say is its loading faster on mine , s801 is no where nearer .
Also in multitasking , i found my Alpha more responsive , Fluid .
i never liked Nexus devices , used nexus 5 for 10 days , and ditched that Garbage looking and garbage feeling Stock android , and its having Zero functionality compared to our Alpha , if new Nexus 6 is For even 300 $ , still i will not get it :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't say anything about performance, my list is only about android version support and how easily the devices get custom roms. Read before posting
leripe said:
If you want good android version support, you bought a very wrong device.
Ranking:
...
Fourth = flagships with Exynos chipset (example our device)
Fifth = other Exynos chipset devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For example Note II with Exynos was released in 2012 and get Lollipop update in 2015. Samsung complies with the terms of updates (Google says about 18 month of updates). If Alpha will recieve update in spring-2016 - this good, but I'm afraid that because of the discontinue that will not happen.
I do not want something fantastic, do not want the latest software among the first. I just want to support. I want a new smartphone does not forget

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