Hey guys
So today I decided to give the Windows phone a shot. Been an avid Android user and follower since it started But decided that I should really give the other operating systems a shot. I just went and got myself a Lumia 925 and if I'm correct that phone is T-Mobile's variant of the 920 correct? I didn't see a thread for the 925 so I think this is where I belong. So with that here are a few questions I have before I dive into my brand new 925.
Just briefly looking through the forum here, I noticed some ROM's here. Are these different versions of the WP software or are these developers personal tweaks to it? I know with Android depending on what phone you have, you can root it and install the latest version of Android on it, currently 4.3, even if your phone prior is only at 4.1.2.
My other question is what apps does everyone here recommend on getting. I know the app market here is really lacking and its a total shame about that. I am pretty integrated into the whole google network (Gmail, Drive, Music, G+, etc). I use some social media apps but those are't too important to me. Suggestions for other apps would be amazing.
Really looking forward in giving this a test drive and in advance thanks for all of your help! :highfive:
no major differences in many variants of same versions... just every operator have own branded versions of firmware.. no way to root or unlock phone (not talk about SIM unlock)
phone market have enough good applications...
but Google and Microsoft have "cold" war and dont except major Google apps on WP platform
Nokia have own alternative for maps, HERE bunch of apps (Maps, Drive, Transit and City Lens) and very good Nokia Music service...
first at all install SysApp Pusher to easy access to Nokia apps and system apps updates
also check for Store Deals and myFreeApp to get notifications about promotional period of pay apps to get it for free
for Instagram use 6Tag
also check guides on http://www.windowsphone.com/en-us/how-to/wp8
for offline navigation you can use Nokia Drive+ or pay for Navigon USA, Garmin StreetPilot or CoPilot GPS (if you have legal licences you can use it on CoPilot without purchase new)
GetThemAll to download stuff from websites (videos, etc.)
Stop the Music! for stopping (kill) media player (or free alternative from market, just use search)
dxdy said:
no major differences in many variants of same versions... just every operator have own branded versions of firmware.. no way to root or unlock phone (not talk about SIM unlock)
phone market have enough good applications...
but Google and Microsoft have "cold" war and dont except major Google apps on WP platform
Nokia have own alternative for maps, HERE bunch of apps (Maps, Drive, Transit and City Lens) and very good Nokia Music service...
first at all install SysApp Pusher to easy access to Nokia apps and system apps updates
also check for Store Deals and myFreeApp to get notifications about promotional period of pay apps to get it for free
for Instagram use 6Tag
also check guides on http://www.windowsphone.com/en-us/how-to/wp8
for offline navigation you can use Nokia Drive+ or pay for Navigon USA, Garmin StreetPilot or CoPilot GPS (if you have legal licences you can use it on CoPilot without purchase new)
GetThemAll to download stuff from websites (videos, etc.)
Stop the Music! for stopping (kill) media player (or free alternative from market, just use search)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome, thanks for all the info will definitely check out all the apps you suggested. Ya I know Google and Microsoft aren't on the best of terms as of right now which only really hurts the users in the long run. Thanks again for your speedy reply!
Xg3nFatality said:
Awesome, thanks for all the info will definitely check out all the apps you suggested. Ya I know Google and Microsoft aren't on the best of terms as of right now which only really hurts the users in the long run. Thanks again for your speedy reply!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
925 is enhanced version of 920 regarding camera, but without wireless charging integrated and also slimmer due this fact
Don't try 920 ROMs on 925 and vise verse..you will brick your phone.
Don't switch. Android might be slower but it has so much more to offer. There is no free video player on the Windows 8 phone. Nothing that can play MKV for free. There is no built in flash support so sites on the web that still use flash don't work. That is an issue with all mobile devices now though. You can't block unwanted calls. There is no app that allows you to do that as there is no app that is allowed access to the kernel thanks to MS protection Nazi's. As soon as my contract ends next year I am going back to G4. This phone is just locked down too tight.
Solarenemy68 said:
Don't switch. Android might be slower but it has so much more to offer. There is no free video player on the Windows 8 phone. Nothing that can play MKV for free. There is no built in flash support so sites on the web that still use flash don't work. That is an issue with all mobile devices now though. You can't block unwanted calls. There is no app that allows you to do that as there is no app that is allowed access to the kernel thanks to MS protection Nazi's. As soon as my contract ends next year I am going back to G4. This phone is just locked down too tight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually in the amber update that is now a built in ability to block both calls and text from specific numbers, though you have always had the ability to save a number and set a blank ringtone for it.
Most of the videos I play are either podcast or streamed via PlexApp both of which work great, and if not, you can always convert them using Zune, granted it is a bit of work.
Solarenemy68 said:
This phone is just locked down too tight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what it makes it so fun fiddling with it!
dont forget about the wifi calling that t-mobile has.. while the other ROMs do not has it.
Since the Amber Update Gmail works fine, as does Google Calendar, both in the Native WP apps.
Get Metrotalk for Google Voice. It takes a few moments to configure but once you do it works as well as Google Voie for IOS including the ability to call from the App.
I too just switched from Android and I'm still on the fence. Most of the Apps I use are here but the are some near dealbreakers like Sirius/XM and my IP Camera app that are not present and probably never will be.
On the other hand, there are a lot of nice included features like SkyDrive and Nokia Pro Cam. Unfortunately, the choice is not clear cut. You have to figure out whats important to you.
I myself was hell bent on being a one device guy. Had the Galaxy Note and Note 2 so I'd have EVERYTHING all at once. Now with the Lumias (especially the 1020) getting such great cameras I may stick with Windows Phone. I do still have an Android Tablet though to get me by.
Then again, Sony's stuff at IFA like the Z1 or the QX cameras are so intruiging. Though, the Lenses won't work with Wndows Phone, or any phone bigger than 5 inches.
So, once again, I'm left scratching my head. Do I go back to the best all around device like the Galaxy Note 3? Or do I stick with the best camera? Or do I compromise, get a middling Android Phone like the S3 or Optimus G so I can slap one of the Sony QX lenses on it? So many decisions!
Related
Hi Fellow XDA'ers!
I have a touch dual (with WM6.5).
I like the look of the Hero but have a few reservations.
Firstly, I read posts that it struggles to sync with Outlook!!?? - can this be sorted? - ActivSync (by BTooth) is very handy and does the job well.
Secondly, I like having the apps such as IGO8 or TOMTOM to hand on my phone, should I need it.
Can I install these apps (or similar) on the Hero?....In other words - can WM apps work on Android?
thanks
andy_dutch said:
Firstly, I read posts that it struggles to sync with Outlook!!?? - can this be sorted? - ActivSync (by BTooth) is very handy and does the job well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think syncing with Outlook over Bluetooth is out of the question. It can sync Contacts and Calendar (only those two) over the USB cable with the use of the 'HTC Sync' software. That software is not available _yet_ on the HTC site, but apparently it IS included on the memorycard included with the Orange bundle that is now shipping.
andy_dutch said:
Secondly, I like having the apps such as IGO8 or TOMTOM to hand on my phone, should I need it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those two applications are not (yet?) available for Android. There are a few other navigation solutions available, but I'm under the impression they are not the level of iGO or TomTom. Also, I have no idea on which countries they support or what price they are available at.
andy_dutch said:
Can I install these apps (or similar) on the Hero?....In other words - can WM apps work on Android?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. There are a whole bunch of Android apps, but software made for Windows Mobile will simply not work (and never will) on Android. They will have to make a special Android version for it, and for utilities and tweaks that is simply not easily done.
dipje said:
There are a few other navigation solutions available, but I'm under the impression they are not the level of iGO or TomTom. Also, I have no idea on which countries they support or what price they are available at.
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Click to collapse
ALKs CoPilot Live 8 is available on the market and is quite competitively priced at £22.60 for a one region version (e.g. UK maps).
I've not played with it extensively, as I bought it as a backup for my regular Garmin satnav unit, but it is definitely much slicker than some of the other alternatives for Android that I've tried (e.g. AndNav).
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
ALKs CoPilot Live 8 is available on the market and is quite competitively priced at £22.60 for a one region version (e.g. UK maps).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems to be a good TomTom alternative! Thanks for the Tip! And they even have 'whole of western europe' or only 'benelux'. That makes it much more affordable if you never leave The Netherlands for example .
Since I'm an Android newbie myself (well, not even an Android newbie, still waiting for my Hero): On the CoPilot site, on 'where to buy' to say to go to the Android market. But they also have three picture, some sort of square barcode. I've seen those more around Android oriented pages. How do they work?
It's a QR code (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_Code) which is essentially a 2-dimensional barcode that can hold a variety of data. In this case, it is holding a URL.
If you download a barcode reader from the market (e.g. Barcode Scanner by ZXing team, which is the one I use) you can use the phones camera to "read" the barcode and it will then allow you to jump to the URL in the browser.
Regards,
Dave
Winmo apps on Android
You never know what could happen guys!
I currently dual boot windows 7 ultimate and Linux Ubuntu.
And as all linux users are aware, there is a nice little app called wine, Wine allows us to run and use many windows apps in a Linux enviroment...
Cant be that much different with Android (linux) and windows mobile.. can it?
Would be a fantastic step and i think possibly the final push for many winmo users!
Im still struggling to choose my self....From HD to Hero?? mmmm
There are few things you need to know about the young android:
1. You cannot save apps to memory card unless rooted.
2. You cannot receive files via bluetooth unless rooted.
overall, Android is a lot better than Winmob
Sorry if this is a stupid question :-(
I run a number of Java applets under WINMO via an applet manager (ESmertec for example). Will these run on Android?
CoPilot is working brilliantly on my Magic and I'll be putting it on my Hero when I get it at weekend.
Here's a great thing - any apps that I've purchased from the Android Market are tied to my google checkout account - When I sign in on my Hero and go to market, those apps will show as purchased and downloadable for me. Also my calendar and contacts will automatically sync to my Hero.
As far as WM apps are concerned, I've used both WM6 and android devices - Not missing anything on my Magic that I had on WM now that Turn By Turn Nav is there. Some apps are already ported over - Docs To go, and recently Touchpal Keyboards.
The ability to search for, find, pay for (if needed) and download software on the fly is just priceless. The fact that most apps are free or very cheap is even better. I'd not go back to WinMo now for anything...
However, you're just gonna have to get one in your hand and see for yourself - its all personal preference amongst the top handsets really.
well my upgrade is being delivered in the morning! yey! HTC Hero on orange..
Wonder if tomtom will port any time soon? should be an easy job considering the tom tom units are linux driven!
jackdaniels_lee said:
Wonder if tomtom will port any time soon? should be an easy job considering the tom tom units are linux driven!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been a TomTom user (on my HTC Trinity and HTC Touch Pro) for almost 3 years now. My HTC Hero will be arriving on Monday morning and I'm actually pretty excited about the change I'll be making to CoPilot.
Not that there's anything wrong with TomTom, but the newer version of CoPilot looks very cool, and it might be nice to try something different.
iammorris said:
I've been a TomTom user (on my HTC Trinity and HTC Touch Pro) for almost 3 years now. My HTC Hero will be arriving on Monday morning and I'm actually pretty excited about the change I'll be making to CoPilot.
Not that there's anything wrong with TomTom, but the newer version of CoPilot looks very cool, and it might be nice to try something different.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have heard a lot of people complaining about the version of CoPilot crashing on the Hero, not sure why this is. TomTom are releasing an iPhone version so who knows, might make its way over to Android in about 3 years?
For me, Copilot certainly crashed. It was not a patch on the stability of Garmin XT. The application felt unfinished with a lot of times when not a full crash, lack of keyboard reponse. Tbh, this failure was the straw that broke the Hero's back
I've not had a single problem with copilot on my magic. Fully tested with postcodes etc and long journeys. Its VERY cheap compared to most satnavs, can be used without any data assistance at all, and very quick to reroute etc.
I have heard about some probs but they have mostly seemed to be related to people trying to hack it or get the maps running without paying, and I know that copilot has added a few layers of security since I bought mine for magic - initially it just installed and needed your google checkout number.
Then it needed that, and you then got a license code and device ID thingy.
I had an update early on from version .303 to .327 which made mine stop loading - One email to support, told me to uninstall ALL, including the maps folder, and it was back working perfectly... I personally think the voices of folks having probs trying to get it running without paying are clouding the issue a bit - I've only heard from one (cbailey) who I know paid, but still got crashes.
Daisy - Was happy with my G1 (since Jan) Happy with my Magic(since beginning of June), and gonna be happy with my Hero I think...
Dayzee said:
I've not had a single problem with copilot on my magic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're in the UK right? I have been looking into copilot as a replacement for my old TomTom once I get my Hero. And although copilot said on their website they have european versions, if I browse the store (though Cyrket for example) I only see their USA map pack / application. Is this location / localization dependant somehow? Why can't I see the european maps in the market?
Dayzee said:
Daisy - Was happy with my G1 (since Jan) Happy with my Magic(since beginning of June), and gonna be happy with my Hero I think...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think we got a big android fan here
In the Market, you get the option for a One Region map - Uk and Ireland comes under that - for £25.99 (Market shows 22 something but then checkout adds VAT for UK)
I think these options are only seen/available on market for android phones. I think they are not offered as products for other platforms, and you only get details once you have bought CoPilot 8 for android.
I personally downloaded CoPilot Central and got my maps via PC through that. You get a Membership name and password when you checkout at google Checkout - I was sent an email with details of that. The actual copilot programe for android downloads to your fone OTA like other apps, but the map fetcher is on PC. I think you CAN get the maps OTA to your fone, but I thougyht that seemed silly and would take ages and be heavy on your data allowance etc.
CoPilot central is free I think - You can get it here
http://www.alk.eu.com/copilot/central/
Daisy xxx
Dayzee said:
I think you CAN get the maps OTA to your fone, but I thougyht that seemed silly and would take ages and be heavy on your data allowance etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get them OTA direct onto the phone via cellular data, but the program advises you do it over WiFi.
Regards,
Dave
cbailey said:
For me, Copilot certainly crashed. It was not a patch on the stability of Garmin XT. The application felt unfinished with a lot of times when not a full crash, lack of keyboard reponse. Tbh, this failure was the straw that broke the Hero's back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems at all with CoPilot APART from TouchFlo seems to lock up when I exit. Not sure if anyone else has this problem.
Other than that, it has no lag what-so-ever, which I used to always have with TomTom. Big thumbs up for me, even more so when I sort out the locking issue when exit, but thats no biggie.
Hi everyone
I'm looking forward to buy a new phone and i'm stuck between lovely lumia 920 and iphone 5
Can u guys give me a quick review about negative points of this phone? I mean in your own opinion.
And what are possible ways to install apps ,free or paid, on this phone?
Tnx so much
Sent from my E15i using xda premium
I am going to answer simply becuase I am courteous. The MS store is just like the Android Market or the iPhone app store. There are paid apps and free apps. Although most of the better stuff has to be paid for and the prices run from about 2 bucks and up.
Negative points? Hmm let me think...... It's not an iPhone.. Seriously, why would you want to be a sheeple? Nearly everyone and their mother owns an iPhone. Be original..
Seriously though our views of this phone are all subjective.. For example if you read some of the gripes posted such as the light leak which only shows from and extreme angle that you would never look from, or the creaking sound when you press on or flex the case which you should not be doing, or the shade of difference between the white of the display and the capacitive button back lights. These to me are all trivial things and just sounds like disgruntled buyer having remorse for some reason and now are picking the phone apart.
For me who has owned several models of HTC, Motorola, Nokia, and have had experience helping to program and update some Samsung devices, I have to say the L920 is the best built, fastest and smoothest operating phone I have seen yet.
My only beef with the phone which i have posted a thread about is it's lack of having a Flash Player. You can not view embedded Flash media in websites. To view Youtube you have to install a third party app. Adobe no longer supports mobile devices as of last year. So this phone was built with the anticipation of all sites converting to HTML5 and doing away with Flash. However that may be some time and until sites you like convert, you may not be able to view them on this phone if the have flash content. Is this a deal breaker? For some maybe. For me had I known this before I bought it, it would have been a deal breaker. But I am now stuck with it and will just have to wait till YT and other site convert if they ever do. The plus is that no phone created past last year will have the ability to view flash with out third party apps. So this may prompt sites to convert faster.
actually, to view Youtube video, you don't really need to install third party app (MetroTube for example), YouTube mobile site support HTML5 itself, just like VEVO, VIMEO, ... Just browsing YouTube via IE on your phone and enjoy your favorite apps.
About installing apps, there are some ways (easy to use):
- using WindowsPhone (WP) store app: find your app and choose install.
- using WP store (web version):
+ find your app, choose install -> app will be sent to your phone (wirelessly) and installed automatically.
+ download app, copy to SD card and install from your phone.
- unlock your phone and install any apps you could find on the internet.
I am due for an upgrade later this month. I am an Android user of phones & tablets for more than 3 years so i am very used to the OS with its massive customisations, etc. But i have been noticing in the background that Windows Phone 8 is slowly gaining fans and i would like to know why. I'd like to convince myself. In particular i'm interested with the Lumia 920 and the newer 925/928 model:
1. Does the Lumia have a Bluetooth feature that can connect to any Bluetooth wireless speakers? And can one send files via bluetooth to any bluetooth-enabled Android phone?
2. Does the Lumia have a quick toggle to settings to instantly turn on or off settings such as wifi, Bluetooth, brightness, etc. (much like the notification drop down bar of Android)
3. Is there a customisable equaliser settings to the new Lumias? Surround sound? Bass? Preset EQ settings?
4. Can I set a Playlist, edit a Playlist name and set songs to a Playlist on-the-fly? If no then what app can do that?
5. Can I drag n drop files from my Mac to a Lumia with a need or no need of another software?
6. Can I still access my Google apps & services such as YouTube, Gmail, Maps, Currents, Chrome, etc.?
7. Is there a pinch to zoom feature in zooming objects for taking photos? Is there an option to easily share them via Email, Bluetooth, Twitter, Instagram, Dropbox, etc.? A way to set photos as a phones's lockscreen wallpaper? A way to edit photos and share them? if so which app do i need?
8. Any "swype to type" typing feature? (For faster typing)
9. Any good alternatives music player, video player for the Lumia?
10. Notification Centre - is it true that one can view a notification (from email, Twiiter, Facebook, etc.) on the lock screen? And how do i "access" or see my notification? Do i swype or just click it?
11. Is there a unified & a fully customomisable news app similar to Google Currents?
12. Sideloading apps - is this possible with WP8? Is there an alternative app store other than WP8's?
Android has tons of alternative/3rd-party app stores where one can look, download & install .apk files on almost any device available out there. Is this also possible with WP8?
13. Would the copy & paste capability be possible in almost anywhere ON THE device itself? How do i copy & paste btw?
14. A way to set Google as a default search option?
15. Software updates - found this "1308" update but it would seem there is the newer "1314" update. What's the real deal? Is it true the 1308 update vastly improved the camera's features and the battery life? ('cause i can't see that info on the website) And how often would those "minor" updates be like performance updates, battery life improvements, new features, etc.
16. Any good note-taking app?
17. How does one go back to view last viewed sites on IE10? Is it any way possible to save them on the hard drive of the phone so i can view them again & again?
18. A way or possibility to print wirelessly to a bluetooth wireless wifi printer?
19. Can one create folders (like a folder for Games, News apps, etc.) like in Android?
20. A very good .pdf viewer please?
21. Can i easily edit a Contact's name, phone number, details, etc.?
22. Can i set a Calendar event or note?
23. Is there a way to edit or change the tile icons on the "main" home screen?
24. Does the camera of the Lumias (in particular the 920) is BSI and HDR features?
Again, read of reviews that the camera is good but photos can sometimes be "washed out" and looks blurry when zoomed in.
25. Screenshots - With Android there is a way to take a screenshot of your phone's current screen. IS this possible with WP8? If yes then how?
26. A good alternative to Google Maps where i can check for transport updates and how to get from point A to B or how to find nearby shops or restaurants?
27. How often does Nokia or MS updates their phones?
28. The battery is only 2000mAh which compare to Android or iPhones is very tiny. How long does the phone lasts for Music? Video? Moderate use?
Please advice. Thanks.
1. yes
2. yes but via apps from market (Windows Store)
3. no but Lumia have equalizer setting and Dolby headphone settings
4. yes and no... you can add songs to playlist and you can with WP app for PC/mac you can make playlist but few things missing
5. yes
6. yes with IE or apps from Market, you cant have other browser, only IE (or Nokia Xpress Browser), maps also with IE or with other app (gMaps for example)
7. yes. yes (direct and also with apps from Market. yes. yes. in most case is enough Nokia apps but if you need more just search market or use App Highlights to suggest you apps
8. yes. WP keyboard is rudimentary but you can swipe with finger to type
9. no. in reality, all players from Market is only shell to original windows player...
10. when notification come, is shown short time in top of screen and if you click it, open it... if you dont click, notification closes and shown on lock screen (wallpaper all missed notification with icon and number)
11. is tons of many apps in Market, i dont use it but think no problem to find right one
12. yes and no.... can sideload but only original apps downloaded from Windows Store and loaded from SDcard if Lumia have SDcard slot. No other alternative stores. WP is most secure OS and in 2 and half year no any type of malware or viruses found on Windows Store because this restrictions
13. copy paste working, just select text and select copy icon, same with paste...
14. yes, in IE settings
15. 1308 is latest, 1314 is only AT&T update and not available for others...
16. a lot of them in market...
17. you can go back and you can bookmark but no save page option
18. not tried but think no...
19. you can create folders, anything like normal storage when connect via USB
20. official is good also others in Market
21. yes, on phone or on Live account on web http://mail.live.com/?rru=contacts
22. yes
23. yes and no... in basically you cant change tiles but also apps on market which can you make own style tiles and give him options
24. yes... Nokia 920 make great pictures...
25. yes, press windows button and power button... and this working where you want (apps, games, settings)
26. Here apps from nokia gives you most good navigation, travel and exploration features completely free with Maps, Drive, City Lens, Transit apps
27. booth... Nokia almost every week give new updates and improvements for their apps and settings
28. in normal use two day, less use 3 days for me (but i turned off many apps from working in background)... for music one day or little more is normal... all depend how many you use and set options in your phone. and newer let battery to discharged... this an brick phone... wireless charging is great thing, and if you can, get original Nokia plate for charging.
many of this answers is here
http://www.windowsphone.com/en-us/how-to/wp8
I'm not looking for a Nokia Android phone here. Sure some questions i have been asking were"asked" before that is why i had to slightly change as to how i ask a specific question.
So far i like some of the replies in here. Very interesting OS compared to Android or IOS. For me one way to really know if i like a phone is to go to a shop. Which i've done today.
I went to an O2 store and saw the Lumia 920 & the 925. Both headphone jack were closed as i wanted to try out the vaunted Dolby headphones sound enhancement. The sales rep explained that he cannot do something about anything as he seem to suggest the brackets around the phone that covers the headphone jack is to "prevent the phones getting stolen". Jeez. An early turn off so i went to an EE shop instead.
EE had a working Lumia 920 so went to try it out. Camera seems slightly better than my S3 but noticed there were very few settings to dabble. Wasn't very much convinced with the Dolby sound enhancement (GSMArena were right after all); I wasn't sure if the software of the unit i was given was updated but i was using a mid-range 2-month old Sony earphones i must say. Even after changing the EQ to Custom sound was still somehow "flat" and lacking personality. Was able to try send a file from my S3 to the 920 with a bit of ease although it took about a minute which by todays' standards isn't great but isn't bad either.
What i still don't like:
1. Lack of an alternative app store
2. Lack of alternative browser
3. Lack of a really good altenrative music player with my above needs
4. Lack of .mkv and .srt support in video player
5. Slowness in transferring files via bluetooth
6. The need for a software in order to transfer files. Although someone did menttioned i can just copy & paste files and put them in a folder.
7. Uninspiring and seemingly flat audio/music quality when headphones are connected (even with Dolby On)
8. Non-removable & "low capacity" battery
9. Small 4.5" screen
10. Lack of or the inability to print to a wireless printer
11. Inability (?) for the phone to act as a wifi hotspot
12. Lack of swiping action for faster typing on keyboard
13. Inability to set Google as a search option
14. Inability to save a webpage as a .pdf file for future viewing
15. Few camera options & settings
16. No ability to edit a photo within OS/device
17. Inability to create folders tiles (for quick access to apps)
What also bothered me when i was in the EE shop was what the sales rep told me. She said that many people have been returning their Lumia 920s (i.e. rate of Lumias being returned were MANY!) for repair because of various problems such as bad incoming/outgoing call quality, screen issues and rebooting/crashing issues. She also bluntly advised me to get a Galaxy S4 or the HTC One instead.
Doesn't help with building up confidence does it?
Only the AT&T version allows you to tether and have up to 5 devices connected to it. But you have to have the second tier data package. Yes you can print to a wireless printer over WiFi (maybe another AT&T exclusive). It uses windows for godsake. If a PC can do it, this phone can do it. As for camera settings. It's a phone. If you want camera settings, then get a camera.
All app can be made into a tile simply by tapping and holding until the menu pops up to pin to desktop. The the file can be resized and positioned as you want it.
Google as a search option? Just make it your browser homepage. So what if it is just one more click. Has society really become this lazy?
That small screen is IPS and blows away all the other phones out there regardless of size. Also the gorilla glass is near diamond hard. Ok exaggeration but it is much harder than any other display out there.
You must have missed the edit photo option. You can cut, crop, change colors, and all kinds of edit options. Maybe that is another AT&T only feature.
My low capacity battery last 12 hours under full load and recharges in two with the wireless charger. Not sure what you want, but it is a computer in your pocket and you will not get phone life out of the battery.
Saving a webpage as a PDF. an Andy will not do that by default. So just wait for an app to be made. Or hey just bookmark it and view it over wifi.
There are alternative app stores for WP8. you just have to get into the right click. They are not made public since MS would shut them down.
There are three browsers that are free on the app store and six more you can pay for.
Did you even really try this out yourself or just let others opinions sway you like a typical sheeple? You know the site you keep referring to is biased against WP and MS products. So of course they will give this phone a negative review.
I am sorry to sound harsh but you tried one version from one provider. They are different. There are at this moment three types of 920 out there. The AT&T, The Rogers, and the all others. Each have some variations in functions and quality. As well as variations in the OS.
You also don't need software to transfer files. Not sure where you got that from but if the phone is plugged into a PC it behaves just like a USB drive and can be explored by windows explorer and you just drag and drop files just like another hard drive.
Bluetooth for file transfer is old school and slow. The S3 as well as the Lumia has a tap to send feature that when both phones are near each other you just select a file, select tap to send, find the other phone in the list and tap it. The other phone if feature is turned on will acknowledge a waiting file. You confirm it and it transfers over the TTS network between the phones. Faster than BT by the way.
There are several MKV players in the store, but they are not free.
I'm sorry but it just sounds like you are picking the phone apart and trying to convince yourself not to get one. If you are happy with Andy then the Lumia is not for you just to be blunt. Most Lumia users are tired of Andy or iPhone and that is why they switched. You will not get the customization of Andy with this phone. What you will get is a good rugged phone that has an OS that runs it like it should with minimal apps to perform most day to day things. You will get a camera that rivals lower end SLR's in quality even if it does not have all the bells and whistles. Yes there are SLR users here who have compared the pic quality and in some case it was better on this phone. You will get an OS that runs smoothly and fast and again does what it should. I will say it one last time. If you are happy with Andy or iPhone then this phone is not for you. This phone is a first phone, or a phone for those tired of the cookie cutter phones/OS's out there.
I do not think GSMArena is "biased" to WP & MS products. Why would they? Please enlighten me. The reason they have "negative" reviews of the Lumias is because its the truth i suppose. And the truth sometimes hurts isn't it?
And you might also ask yourself: why would the sales person be biased in saying the rate of returns is enormous because of such & such issues? Please enlighten me. Of all shops i went to (O2, EE & Carphone Warehouse) most of them sell (YES) Android phones (as many companies make Android phones...duh!), iPhones AND Windows phone 8 phones.
Again, let me ask (and challenge you)...why would the sales person be biased? I don't think its because they use Android phones most of the times. I simply don't think so. These people are trained to use and be familiar with ALL types of phones. The only reason i could think of is their reputation. Many returns (for repairs or otherwise) will ultimately have a negative effect on them.
I also heard of incompatibility with the EE network. If the phone is 4G-ready/capable it shouldn't be a compatibility issue. Its the issue of the maker of the phone (and OS) itself isn't it? If the phone is not up to what it can do or is capable of doing then i would rather go for a tried and tested and familiar phone & OS that is Android. I'm aware some companies release different versions of their phones depending on the country/market but still that doesn't help at all.
Also, the trouble with these shops is their phones are most of the times not updated so the software & other improvements are not there for you to experience. The headphone jack might be "locked" by the braces holding the phone or the phone isn't charged at all. Its a lose-lose situation.
Look i am not looking for a perfect Nokia Android phone as i will not find one. I know its either Windows Phone 8 or Android OS.
I made myself clear on my previous reply about my experience in the phone shops and the negative things i have known and read.
If i get the Lumia 920 right now on a 24-month contract with EE will they allow me to return the phone simply because "im not happy with it"? I guess we all know the answer to these question. All they care about is getting money from you and that's it.
Doesn't inspire confidence does it?
I know AT&T gives you a 14 day return period even on a 24 month contract. If you go beyond 14 days then they hit you with the phones full price if you break contract. The issue is not the phone, with 4G. 4G from provider to provider is on different frequencies. This phone like all others only supports 4G and LTE on certain frequencies. If your provider does not support those frequencies then there is nothing that you nor Nokia can do. You need to bust your providers balls to support the other frequencies as well. Good luck on that though since they will just tell you to use a phone they provide. If you want the Lumia to function 100% then you have to buy it from a provider who supports it and use their network. Buying it and trying to use it on a network that it was not intended for will result in fail most of the time. Or the very least a lot of flashing and tweaking and still may not be 100%.
I will say it again. If you like Android and are happy with it then stay with it. To me it sounds like you have already decided against this phone anyways. You Are not going to get somebody in a Lumia forum to flat out tell you not to buy it. So if you are looking for somebody to confirm your feelings you won't get it here. The bottom line is that this phone is not for somebody who is happy with their current OS. This phone is a phone for those just starting or those just fed up with the other stuff out there.
Well thank you all for your replies and insights.
If i get a Windows Phone 8 phone right now i feel it is a way backward not forward. I'm familiar with Android OS so i think i'll stick it out with them.
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?
Click to expand...
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:
Hi! I'm a long time android user that is interested in trying out the Windows mobile experience. I'm an Insider tester so I started with just wanting to get a device but if I'm buying one then it will be my primary cell phone so I need a little convincing to make the purchase.
One of my sticklers is the low DPI on the 925. I don't like how most small screened phone tend to have low DPI and the 925 doesn't seem to be an exception, so is there a way that I can increase the DPI?
How is the integration between the phone and the desktop OS?
Is it snappy and responsive?
How is the rom/firmware/custom stuff selection for the 925? Specifically podcast, reddit and Google apps (Hangouts and Mail)
How's the app selection nowadays?
Thank you for your help! Help me become one of you! Otherwise i'm just going to buy a MotoG.
l1lypad said:
Hi! I'm a long time android user that is interested in trying out the Windows mobile experience. I'm an Insider tester so I started with just wanting to get a device but if I'm buying one then it will be my primary cell phone so I need a little convincing to make the purchase.
One of my sticklers is the low DPI on the 925. I don't like how most small screened phone tend to have low DPI and the 925 doesn't seem to be an exception, so is there a way that I can increase the DPI?
How is the integration between the phone and the desktop OS?
Is it snappy and responsive?
How is the rom/firmware/custom stuff selection for the 925? Specifically podcast, reddit and Google apps (Hangouts and Mail)
How's the app selection nowadays?
Thank you for your help! Help me become one of you! Otherwise i'm just going to buy a MotoG.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, DPI is a hardware issue, you can't just increase it.
For intergration, you can load your favorites and tabs from IE. It will load your contacts and calander from any email account.
Podcast is built in, if the particular podcast isn't found you can use the RSS link and add it, that works really well.
There are some apps for redit, thought I don't think there's a native app.
There are no apps that I've found that can handle google hangouts. I typcially just load them in the browser. I know this is a big stiking point for most people, but google will not support Windows anymore than it has to, which is pretty minimal. I use whatsapp for most of my messagineg.
Etaduck said:
So, DPI is a hardware issue, you can't just increase it.
For intergration, you can load your favorites and tabs from IE. It will load your contacts and calander from any email account.
Podcast is built in, if the particular podcast isn't found you can use the RSS link and add it, that works really well.
There are some apps for redit, thought I don't think there's a native app.
There are no apps that I've found that can handle google hangouts. I typcially just load them in the browser. I know this is a big stiking point for most people, but google will not support Windows anymore than it has to, which is pretty minimal. I use whatsapp for most of my messagineg.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, would you recommend the 925 as a 'starter' windows phone? I'm on Tmobile and have about 100$ or so to spend. Is there a better one for that price? : \ Tmobile has a terrible windows phone selection and pricing compared to ATT.
I found apps that support multiprotcol IM and gmail checking; so that's covered. I can get past the DPI thing because it's not too bad with that resolution. Better than my old Galaxy SII anyway.