iBlazr - Potential flash solution - Sony Xperia Z Ultra

I received my iBlazr pre-order earlier this week and wanted to share a quick review of this unit. Like some of the users here on this forum, I love my Z Ultra but wish Sony would have added flash. I don't use flash too often but when I do, it would be nice to have it. One of the thread I came across had mentioned iBlazr. I took a look at it and pre-ordered the aluminum version (see http://www.iblazr.com for more info).
Again, this is a quick review (wanted to write this before heading to work) so let me know if there is anything else anybody wants to know or see about this unit.
The flash unit only works with the app that can be downloaded through the Google Play store and other apps in the future (iBlazr has a SDK for developers). I have encountered some issues with the app (settings doesn't open, previews of pictures taken and viewed on Albums or Google Photos don't show, and pictures taken with the app don't show in Album but do in Google Photos) so I will not review the app until I had a chance to communicate with support. This will be the review of the unit itself.
The first two pictures shows the size of the main flash unit compared to a nickel. The unit itself is small which can easily fit in a pocket (especially compared to the Z Ultra).
The third picture shows the accessories that came with the unit. The nice thing is that it comes with a boot which can be used with SLRs so it is not limited to just smartphones. It also comes with a diffuser which I have not used yet. The charging cord is a USB-to-3.5mm and is rigid (not just a cable) but flexible. It also comes with a carrying bag.
The flash unit can be used on its own which is what I did for the test. The four levels are "off", 20%, 50%, and 100% light levels.
The first set of engine pictures are in my garage with the lights on but the hood of my car blocks most of the light. Each picture is with a light level of off, 20%, 50%, and 100% respectively. As you can see the light does a good job of lighting the details between the engine block and air intake/battery compared to no light, especially the alternator to the left.
The second set of engine pictures are in my garage with no lights on. Each picture is with a light level of off, 20%, 50%, and 100% respectively. With no light, the Z Ultra does not pick up anything of course. At 50%, the picture is grainy but at least you get some detail. At 100%, still a bit grainy but definitely more detail.
Feel free to post any comments and questions and I will try to respond as soon as possible.

Hello,
Did you open the iblazr? I have the curiosity to see the mainboard inside. Can you take a close picture of it? If not, have you idea where I can find it?
Thanks

I own one, which has same board and use iblazr software, the device own 16 led on it, but not like have same power as yours, but still to much to look straight at it...
This device source of action is high volume sound, if you have a song with powerful beats, it will work like a flasher.
Must phone flash shutter sound can't trigger the device, so when it come to Sony, you can't even be close to it. Also unlike some phones, you can't modify shutter song file. So you can't replace it with better one, only app can trigger flash on my device (Xperia Z) and only when volume is at max...
---------- Post added at 03:38 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:34 PM ----------
Also app software too weak in resolution, and also far without feature, Iwished I could modify the camera app, but when it come to camera it's disappointing for such company

Related

[Q] Low Light Photo Issues? (hue)

I've checked a couple of other threads that popped up as similar above when I typed my title, but they weren't the same.
When taking photos in low light, the camera is way overdoing trying to use whatever light source is available (I guess) and giving the whole photo a hue like I applied a filter. Outside in a brightly lit parking lot, everything turns purple/pink (think like a filter has been applied) and inside everything turns orange. This isn't the worst example, but I've been deleting photos after taking them.
(I just removed the link because I haven't posted before and it won't let me :-\ can I PM someone the link or paste it in parts for someone to post or just view that way?)
A friend who owns one says he thinks the camera is maybe defective, and showed examples of his low light photos in muuuch darker scenes which just look normal with no discoloration.
I'm rooted but completely stock otherwise. (only wanted greenify)
Edit: After re-reading another thread, this one sounds similar afterall. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317507 I'm still reading it.
I heard back from HTC and they told me to perform a factory reset to see if it corrects the issue and if not to exchange it with AT&T. -.-

[Q] Use camera with mini external LED Torch ?

I'm in Ultra/Note3/One Max keep changing my mind mode at the moment. Bought myself a cheap gel case for the Ultra off eBay to practice does it fit in my pocket scenarios lol.
Anyway, don't know why, but for some reason, I've always been fond of things like mega powerful or really small key torches. One of those things you feel like you should buy/keep handy just in-case even though you don't really need it. Must be the kid in me...
So, given the lack of flash... I was wondering how well taking low light photos would work using one of those mini (run on an AA battery) type torches with along with the phone. They typically sell for a few quid, attach to a keyfob etc. You can get even smaller single LED ones that run off button type batteries, but I'm assuming these would be too underpowered.
Would using an external LED torch result in images similar to an inbuilt 'Flash' (actually just LED, not really a flash...) or are there other factors that mean it just wouldn't be the same ?
How many lumens or whatever does a typical led flash pump out. Is the brightness controlled as part of the exposure process, or is it just switched on due to low lighting and exposure decided afterwards ?
Zuber said:
I'm in Ultra/Note3/One Max keep changing my mind mode at the moment. Bought myself a cheap gel case for the Ultra off eBay to practice does it fit in my pocket scenarios lol.
Anyway, don't know why, but for some reason, I've always been fond of things like mega powerful or really small key torches. One of those things you feel like you should buy/keep handy just in-case even though you don't really need it. Must be the kid in me...
So, given the lack of flash... I was wondering how well taking low light photos would work using one of those mini (run on an AA battery) type torches with along with the phone. They typically sell for a few quid, attach to a keyfob etc. You can get even smaller single LED ones that run off button type batteries, but I'm assuming these would be too underpowered.
Would using an external LED torch result in images similar to an inbuilt 'Flash' (actually just LED, not really a flash...) or are there other factors that mean it just wouldn't be the same ?
How many lumens or whatever does a typical led flash pump out. Is the brightness controlled as part of the exposure process, or is it just switched on due to low lighting and exposure decided afterwards ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A strobe light (light from your device) - Will use less power and will capture motion better, will have deeper and richer colours.
Always on lights - The good thing is, what you see is what you get. Using a torch or external power source, you'll know and see exactly what you'll be taking an image of. However you will also need to mess with ISO to capture an equal quality image as opposed to strobe. (motion blur)
- Using an app that can do this will require A LOT of time fiddling, and may lose the moment... But the end result could enable a better quality image.
If you can get a very bright external light source then it will be better than the LED on a phone.
Phone LED are about 50-70 lumen... hope this helps...
Check this out iblazr.com! Iblazr can be in a good use!
Sorry, I wonder if I done anything wrong posting this. If yes pls delete for me admin. Sorry!
trinityb4 said:
Check this out iblazr.com! Iblazr can be in a good use!
Sorry, I wonder if I done anything wrong posting this. If yes pls delete for me admin. Sorry!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, Saw that.
So my question would be how would it compare to using a torch. Maybe with a diffusing material on it ?
By the way, plenty of cheap small waterproof torches around.
My main concern would be trying to take a photo with the giant Z Ultra with one hand and shining the torch with the other .....
RaindancerAU said:
My main concern would be trying to take a photo with the giant Z Ultra with one hand and shining the torch with the other .....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't think that would be an issue. We are talking small 1xAA torch, so torch is abot the size of your finger. Should be easy enough handle at same time as the phone if using both hands.
Zuber said:
Don't think that would be an issue. We are talking small 1xAA torch, so torch is abot the size of your finger. Should be easy enough handle at same time as the phone if using both hands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure ... I have enough problems taking a photo one handed with my Galaxy Nexus you see ....
I'm probably going to get a Honami as well anyway , so the Z Ultra will probably not need to perform many camera duties anyway and it wouldn't be for very long.
It's better to use filter of camera then having weird torch with Giant Smartphone,i really disappointed with camera(also lake of led flash) but now i mostly use filter in low light conditions, just my experience.
Sent from Public Toilet

Gear Fit Review - Thoughts and Observations here

A surprise came in the mail today from AT&T. I had pre-ordered the fit back in March and it has finally arrived, and even earlier than the expected launch date.
Unboxing:
First impressions:
The gear fit is very light, and comfortable to wear. The design is something that I can appreciate more than its big brother the gear 2/Neo. The display is vibrant and the picture quality is what you would expect from a AMOLED display. The heart rate monitor works well, I had it over my wrist bone at first so it couldn't see me vein to get a reading since it uses infrared to count your BPM. I enjoy the simplicity of the design more than some other smart watches/fitness bands because its just a simple layout with one physical button and a touch screen. This is more aimed at the fitness side of things than the everyday smartwatch, but that doesn't mean its not a great device. Don't forget that this product is meant to compete more with items such as the fitbit, jawbone and other fitness trackers but with added functionality. Samsung is also releasing their other fitness product the S Band which is more on par with the two mentioned above, but the fit could be seen as a premium version of these rather than a new category in general. I don't see the fit complete with the Polaris line of products in terms of monitoring because its only meant for Samsung devices currently. Overall I am happy with it, and I will update this with more details, images and answer any questions that you guys have.
Hopefully Samsung will post prices and make the other colored bands available for people to buy on the official launch but these days who knows.
Pictures Part 1:
Day 1
Update 1:
I have been using this device for about 6 hours messing around with the settings and seeing what works for me. The battery was at 63% when I started and is now at 55%. Keep in mind that I have had the screen on a lot, along with trying out the gesture to wake which is a little too sensitive. If you use the gesture wake the display will turn on when you lift your arm up (a battery killer obviously) The notifications do push instantly to the device and you can select any of your apps to push out their notifications to the fit. The pedometer also works well and you can pause it so you are counting steps by moving around at your desk or in your car. The RTOS is very simple and it works much better than the gear 2 in terms of functionality. The band is very comfortable and the clasp is secure enough so you don't have to worry. There is also a feature you can enable where your phone will beep if you walk about 25ish feet away from the fit which works also on the fit in the form a vibration that alerts you. The APK for the Gear Fit Manager fromt he S5 does work (I'm running it on my Note 3 N900A) with 4.4.2 without any problems so far. The heart rate monitor is very fast now that I know what to do. (The screen shows you a reminder of how to do it). A nice feature that I was not aware of until I tried it out was the media control. I can adjust my phones volume, pause/play and change the track from the watch which is convenient when you are working out. It has been pouring down rain here all day and I am glad that the fit is IP67 water resistant or I would have a dead device. So far my impressions are that this is a great device, its light weight, comfortable and most importantly functional. I will add more pictures soon.
Update 2:
Brightness and different situations:
The display can be adjusted from brightnesses of 1 to 6 but since there is not light sensor this must be done manually through the settings either via the app or on the device itself. I will take a picture of it underwater for you to see, but outdoors the 5-6 brightness should be plenty depending on how bright it is outside. I usually leave it at the 3-4 setting and I'm able to read the display just fine. When I'm inside for a while I usually turn it to the 1-3 range depending on the lighting. I only adjust it if I really need to, usually a standard of 3-4 brightness will be sufficient for most people's daily activities.
Also the charging cradle if you call it that snaps on and off with less effort that plugging in a micro usb. As mentioned in the earlier posts I charged it last night 4/7 so I could do an accurate test from a full battery.
Pictures Part 2:
Device display at setting 1 (my desk isn't the brightest place in the world at night, ignore the glare from my lamp):
Battery life after 1 day of use starting from 0700. I had my gmail, sms, calls, and google now notifications being pushed to the device and I used the pedometer for a hour or so to try it out today. Keep in mind with every notification the display turns on. I have it set up so it this way but you can change this to only turn on for only high priority notifications and it also vibrates to alert you for each notification. The battery seems impressive so far as you can see from the picture below. I would classify toda's use as light to moderate because of the numerous notifications that I received and checking my heart rate, coupled with the pedometer. I will be going for a hike, walk, or bike ride tomorrow to test out a longer use of the fitness functionality vs its impact on the battery.
Underwater Display images: (yes that is a blendtec and no I'm not going to blend it like "will it blend") It was a clear container that was easy to get a image of the fit rather than in my sink. The slight blue in the second image was due to my Note 3's camera. The first image is a better depiction of what it looks like. As you can see there is almost no visible distortion which is nice for those of you who choose to use it in the water.
Pictures Part 3
Day 2:
After a second day of use here are some updates. The S Health App will not sync my workouts or pedometer from the fit which is a little annoying. This could be because I am running the leaked S5 apps and there could be an update that I don't have. This should be fixed when the device officially launches this friday. The battery has gone down a bit more it lost about 8-10% while I was sleeping but I did leave it connected via bluetooth to my phone. I also used it to count my steps for my walking between classes to see how far I walk out of curiosity. I also went on a 1-2 mile "hike" on some trails. The battery is at about 65% currently which still is not bad after 2 full days of use. I will keep the updates coming for the battery until it actually dies.
Side note: I have heard that Samsung also added in a sleep monitor option in the update for the gear fit. I hope it shows up soon because I can't find a way to update the device. There is no option in my app as you will see from my pictures down below. I also forgot to charge my phone last night so its almost dead anyway. Kies 3 does not find the device when I briefly plugged it in via usb to my pc. The battery stayed at the same % for those of you who were wondering any charging by checking for software updates was negligible. Below I have provided screen shots of the various menus on the fit and what some controls look like. If you have any requests feel free to let me know and I will post more pictures.
The glare is in the pictures is from my camera, and my oily fingers becuase I didn't wipe it off. until I realized the photos look a little bad. Thats a day of use and dirt...
Pictures Part 4:
Time is for the battery life reference
Volume control
Settings Menu
Here is a screenshot of where the "software update" icon should be. As you can see there is no option to update it in the S5 APK.
Day 3:
The app was offically released via the Samsung App Store. I downloaded it and updated my fit to the new software. Here is a breakdown of the 'new' added features that I have noticed since the pre-official launch software:
New clock faces for landscape and portrait
Sleep tracker
Pin lock
Portrait mode (you have to manually rotate it via the settings menu)
Customize icon location on device (left or right of the home screen clock)
Redesigned app
It is now day 3 and the fit is still clinging to life. The majority of battery life dissipates during the idle time at night. I am currently at 38% battery life after 3 days of moderate use. I have kept my rightness at the 2-3 range unless I am indoors in which case I usually change it to 1 to save power when I don't need it. I keep the pedometer running all day, and the bluetooth on with weather updates on the home screen every 3 hours. I also had to leave it on during its update which took about 3-5 minutes of the display being constantly on. I am going to try to use the sleep mode tonight to see how well it works (and so you can see how little that I sleep...). I enjoy using the portrait mode, it feels more natural even with the narrow display, but it depends on what I am doing. Anyway here are some more pictures
Pictures 5:
Pictures Part 6:
Reading emails/notifications in landscape and portrait modes
App Pictures:
Day 4:
I managed to get another solid day of use out of the fit. It popped up with a battery alert around 1600 yesterday when it was at about 15% battery. The fit managed to last until just a couple of minutes ago. I'm happy with the battery life being just over 4 days for what I use it for (everyones battery life many very based on use). I am also posting picture of the sleep tracker so you can see what it looks like. I enjoy using the portrait mode more than the landscape, it is a little weird to look at because its so narrow, but you get used to it.
Pictures 7:
Before it died
Update 5/11
I know its been a while since I updated the OP. I have been very busy with finals (engineering is always fun) and I'm moving in a few days. I have now been using the fit for over a month and I'm still happy with it. My battery has averaged about 5 days per charge with the longest at 7 days and shortest being 3 days. I have noticed a small update to the app at least twice which is good that Samsung is updating it.
The bad:
The s health app doesn't sync well with the fit which is disappointing. The hiking mode only measures your workout by altitude rather than how other app account for that and distance and factor in how many calories you burn. (Even though no device is truly accurate)
Other than those two complaints I use the fit daily as a watch and if I got on a hike or walk with my wife. I hope that Samsung will release the other bands for it soon. I have had no issues with the band coming off as some other people had stated. If you have this problem there is a simple fix. Take a small black hair rubber band (this kind woman use in their hair) which can be purchased for 2$ for a couple hundred of them and put it on your fits band. This week prevent it from falling off even if it does come undone. I will post a picture of you want. I never use it but it seemed like a good idea to address the issue.
Lastly if anyone has questions I will be happy to answer them the nest that I can. I will begin posting more regularly again one I get settled into my new place in the coming week or two. I still go to school full time in the summer (I want to graduate faster since I'm already old for a Jr) so with that in mind thank you to everyone who found this helpful and thanks me.
P.s. My thoughts are still scattered due to everything going on so I will look over this post when I get home to make sure it makes sense.
do you know if it works with any Android phone, or only with Samsung's smartphones?
fvidania said:
do you know if it works with any Android phone, or only with Samsung's smartphones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Currently it only works with Samsung devices I believe there are 14 of them with compatibility. I'm not certain about this but MAYBE if you root a device and install the APK for the gear fit it COULD work. Has anyone tried this?
I'm very likely to pick one up when they're available in stores.
When did you pre order it?
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
flipq88 said:
When did you pre order it?
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know ATT is still taking pre-orders. Talked to them today and they said they'd be selling them in store later this month.
Nice! :good:
Interested how you find the device.
I preordered it on 3/20. I spoke with ATT and they said that stores should be receiving them for the Friday launch but there is not gurrantee . I charged my battery fully last night so I could see how long it would actually last from a full charge under normal use. I will part nighty updates with what I used it for and the battery pwrcentage . There will also be a software update soon according to Sam mobile. You will be able to change the screen orientation, which Iknow was a big complaint for some people. The article can be found here
http://www.sammobile.com/2014/04/08...ption-to-enable-vertical-display-orientation/
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
do you have to always keep the bluetooth on ? i would want to use it as just a watch at times..
Well in order to connect or to the phone bluetooth needs to be on. If it's off it still works as a watch and pedometer just without pushing notifications.
Edit: to answer your question I airways keep the Bluetooth on.
I verified that everything does work (which it should) except data/phone dependent features i.e.: weather,any kind of notifications, SMS, S Health goals, missed calls etc. I hope the update gets pushed out soon, but I have no idea how to check for it. There is no option for updates in the app or on the device, but then again I'm running the S5's extracted apk.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I'm interested in the gear fit too.
I saw that you have a spigen screen protector as well. Can you put some light on its efficiency like colors after being under water, clarity outdoor/indoor,etc. That would be really helpful.
shoaibar said:
I'm interested in the gear fit too.
I saw that you have a spigen screen protector as well. Can you put some light on its efficiency like colors after being under water, clarity outdoor/indoor,etc. That would be really helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no distortion of any colors due to the screen protector in any of those situations that I can see. Everything seems to be as clear as a device without a screen protector. I'm sure if you look extremely close you could probably find a very very minimal amount of distortion/clarity but I can't see any myself. I am not a fan of the Spigen screen protector because its more inline with the Zagg screen protectors. This means that it has a gloss to it even though it appears matte when you have it in its packaging. The feel of it is similar to the Zagg with a almost rubber like friction at first after you apply it, but it dissipated after I cleaned it with some of my lense cleaner. I have used it in the heavy rain we have been experiencing without any issues of water getting under it or limited visibility. I just threw the device in my sink full of water and the protector looks the same as it does now. There does not appear to be any distortion, or at least no noticeable distortion. It's much harder to tell because of the screen size, but overall I am happy with it. It's definitely no tempered glass protector quality but it does the job for the Gear Fit. This is my first Spigen non-glass screen protector so I'm not sure how their regular ones are compared to this.
Wow. Thank you so much for giving a more in-depth analysis.
I also pre-ordered the Fit via amazon. Wasn't sure which screen protector to buy. Hope would go with Spigen as there is no better choice other than this.
shoaibar said:
Wow. Thank you so much for giving a more in-depth analysis.
I also pre-ordered the Fit via amazon. Wasn't sure which screen protector to buy. Hope would go with Spigen as there is no better choice other than this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah there is just the Spigen and I believe Skinomi? I think that both are about the same material wise so there shouldn't really be a difference.
I can't wait for the update that allows portrait mode. I can confirm that its not shipping with the update mentioned earlier we will see what happens.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I'm probably answering my own questions already but does this gear fit have a calorie intake measure? Is this watch viable for going to the gym purposes?
I don't see any info about the gear fit recording calorie intake and it says heart rate sensor and not monitor which it probably won't constantly read your heart rate as you work out (oppose to the polar fitness watches)
You input your information via the S Health app so yes it can do calories intake and burn but only for 4 different activities at the moment. These include running, walking, hiking and biking. I believe that more will be added such as strength training soon.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I work for Samsung. They should be in every Best Buy friday. They also work with the Pro series tablets and the upcoming Galaxy series 4 tablets if anyone is wondering. ip67 rating essentially is 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
bckrupps said:
I work for Samsung. They should be in every Best Buy friday. They also work with the Pro series tablets and the upcoming Galaxy series 4 tablets if anyone is wondering. ip67 rating essentially is 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about the colored bands and software update?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Pilz474 said:
What about the colored bands and software update?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not sure what bands will be in stock yet. there is an update for the gear fit already to allow it to be viewed in both portrait and landscape mode
Interesting ....I'm just concerned about battery drainage from my cell which is the note3 with the bt on all day...
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

Sony C5 Ultra hands on.

First off, I am not a technical guy. So this review is purely based hand on feel of this device. Since there are not much online reviews around, Hope this helps to address some concerns u may have before taking the plunge. Cheers!
Unboxing,
Nothing out of the ordinary..
Cheap headset, 850mah charger (WTF Sony..), usb cable. Some menu and paper.
Build quality,
Very pleased. Though plastic, it really doesn't feel cheap AT ALL. Everything is solid, no creaking whatsoever. Very comfortable in the hand. Especially when its not as wide as other 6' incher. One thing I notice.. Normally when we hold a phone, it will be more to the bottom. Even though the weight is evenly distribute, Its a tall phone. So, it can feel "top heavy" and tip over if u do not hold properly..I got the white version, I think it makes the bezel-less display stands out. Buttons are clicky enough, minus my camera button.. The flap covering the nano sim and sd slot is very very flimsy though but fits securely. Just dun play with it too often....
Screen,
Fantastic built quality. I cant see individual pixels even up-close. Good viewing angle. Bright, even in bright daylight with the sun shining directly on it. Screen has a oleophobic coating so it really smooooth. Very responsive to the touch.
One thing that seriously bug me though is the colour calibration. Its is extremely washed out by default. (I read there are 2 different supplier for the screen with different quality.) U will have to play with the white balance to really find the suitable colour combo. I tried playing the same video, photos on other devices to confirm my findings. Even after some tweaking, colours are still a little off as the contrast is slightly on the lower side. Seriously, I almost flipped when I first played the sample landscape video, Its the worst I have ever seen.. there's no colour at all.. everything looks pale. Hopefully an update will solve this issue. Another strange behaviour I notice is the white balance setting. After a reboot, white balance will go back to factory default. Only when u open up the white balance app, the settings are applied. The settings do sticks, but just not applied automatically after a reboot.
Camera, I am not a very trigger happy person...
This is one area I think Sony keeps screwing up.... Most photos on Superior Auto are overly overly overly exposed. Leaving washed out and pale colours. Details are there though. Noises fortunately are keep very low in dim light. Performance are pretty much the same on both the front and back camera. Manual mode produce more accurate pics with some manual adjustments. Ironically, I find that the stock google camera from playstore produce better results. So I think it is Sony that is messing up their processing algorithm.. I not tried tried video yet......
They have a dedicated 2 step camera button. I think mine is kinda faulty. Its difficult to press to focus, impossible to follow through to take the shot. I have to use my nails to really press the button. I have to check this out on the other sets in the store.
Battery,
So far pretty good.. I brought it home and charge up to full with a 1.5A charger. Took around 2.5-3 hrs from 30% to 100%, a little too long I thought. After around 8hrs up time, Wifi on, Lte on, 2hr 55min screen on time, I am at 49%. Pretty good I would say.
Phone,
Not thoroughly tested.... Fatal flaw..... see below.
Speaker,
Extremely loud! The single speaker is located at the bottom grill and its front facing. Hooray!! Sounds came out quite decent and clear without distortion even at max.. Its..really.. loud...
Performance,
Really snappy in real life usage. Have not experience any lag or slowdown yet.. I am currently using S4 i9506(a S800 version), Z ultra and Z3TC. This "mid-ranger" beats all of them with an average of 46000 on antutu 64bit test.... Average FPS in Epic Citadel is 43.3. Quadrant standard is at around 20000. Device stayed relatively cool throughout without abnormal overheating experienced.
GPS,
No Issue. Position lock on GMaps in less than 5 sec cold start.
So far, I am happy!
Just my 2cents worth.
Edit - After one day, I notice that the screen will flicker whenever its trying to load a video preview. Happens everytime in facebook and the default album app.
Another serious flaw is that when I make a phone call, the microphone is activated at the earpiece's side rather than at the mountpiece. Making hearing on the other end very soft and a giant pain in the ass... Ironically, on my virgin call, I found this out when I called Sony to complain about my camera button and they couldnt hear me properly.. Seriously... Sony WTF...?????
Factory reset solved the above problem.
F U Sony, after 2nd call, the mic problem is back!
Where did you buy this at

Ask Me Anything on the Google Pixel 3 XL and Pixel Stand

Hello everyone,
I'm the Editor-in-Chief of the XDA Portal. I received the Pixel 3 XL in Just Black for review from Google. I also have the Pixel Stand and Pixel USB-C Earbuds.
I posted part 1 of my review here: https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-3-xl-camera-software-design-pixel-stand/
Have posted a ton of little tidbits of information here: https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-3-google-pixel-3-xl-minor-features/
And my announcement article also has a ton of information: https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-3-google-pixel-3-xl-specs-features-pricing-availability/
But if you have any other questions, I'm happy to answer them now that the review embargo has been lifted.
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Sorry, I don't have the smaller Pixel 3 on hand, but the two devices are basically the same apart from the different screen sizes/notch.
Is the screen completely flat? For screen protectors. Can you also dock the phone horizontal and still use the features? I think it was careless of the designers, if you could not use the USB C headphones while it charges on the stand(vertical).
killakarl said:
Is the screen completely flat? For screen protectors. Can you also dock the phone horizontal and still use the features? I think it was careless of the designers, if you could not use the USB C headphones while it charges on the stand(vertical).
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It's basically flat. It slightly curves at the edges, but nothing like the Samsung Galaxy series. You can dock the phone in the Pixel Stand horizontally, but the new UI only appears in portrait mode. I agree it's an oversight - all it takes to enable landscape mode in Always on Display is to change a single boolean value in the framework: https://android.googlesource.com/pl.../+/master/core/res/res/values/config.xml#1192
Is the stand worth it? How much time does it take to charge phone completely?
GizmoFreak said:
Is the stand worth it? How much time does it take to charge phone completely?
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The Always on Display integration is really neat but I'm guessing someone will figure out how to trigger it for any Qi wireless charger soon, so I'm not sure if the Pixel Stand will be so unique in the future. It charges the device fully in about 2 hours and 40 minutes, but about 50% in 1 hour.
Is the video as washed out as it looks in the reviews I've see (supersaf and zone of tech)? Something perhaps to do with electronic image stabilization?
Just a few questions my friend.
How's the screen in bright sunlight? My P2XL needs help on that one.
How's the ringer/notification volume and vibration motor? I've missed several calls since I have to have the volume set to full and the vibration on my P2XL is kinda weak.
Do you have any "hollow sound" while tapping the screen like has been reported on the P2XL. I can vouch for this one on my P2XL.
Thank you for your willingness to share your findings :laugh:
Does the Pixel 3 display has a pinkish tint?
Does the back scratch easily?
Does the stand have a nfc card that makes it so something else like trigger some software to make it act like a assistant mode?
I have a few questiona about its camera.
Does it have a full manual mode?
If it has, how many seconds of exposure does it have?
And, again, if it has a manual mode, can it save RAW photos?
How many camera modes does it have?
Does it have a light painting mode?
Does the Manual Camera app work with the wide aperture front camera?
If it does, can it save wide RAW photos?
What's the highest video resolution in Open Camera? (On my One M9 is 4096x2160.)
I hope you have time to answer all of this stuff.
Hello, I'm having Pixel 3 from USA and using it in India. Running latest stock OS. I'm not getting eSim option.
Please guide me for enabling the eSim option.

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