I looked but couldn't find, is there a recommended beginner's guide to the Z Ultra? If not, given the nearly 1.5 year lifetime of the device/community, what top tip would you give somebody receiving a new device in a few days?
I have just ordered my ZU. I am IT involved (work and hobby) but have virtually no Android or Xperia experience. This will be my first real/recent Android experience, I have had very limited experience up to now- a few hours on a 2.3 phone 2 years ago and on a tablet with Cyanogenmod last year. I have been using various Blackberry and Windows devices the last few years and before that the iphone.
I plan to just play safe the first week or two, trying out some Google Play store apps only, etc. Is there anything important I should do on first use? I'm not sure exactly what version the device will have loaded, anything to do before the OTA software update kicks in?
I plan to eventually root the device which seems necessary for certain things I want to do, I will read up on details , I'm aware of some key backup requirements.
Hi Jess91,
Welcome to the club!
Having IT experience, you should be comfortable navigating android and all the information around it. Read through all the stickies, particularly in the general section and Q/A. Familiarize with the lingo (root, rom, (custom) recovery, bootloader etc) -- you may already know what these mean.
In terms of "first things" -- I think you should be okay with the OTAs (see Blueether's Everything Root sticky - I believe the starting firmware ROM is the up-to-date version). Follow the right instructions (i.e Google Play Edition phone vs. Sony Xperia phone). As soon as you root, backup your ROM and your TA (I gather you're already familiar).
As for first things - my tip is to protect the device (physically):
-The long thin frame makes the phone prone to bend and there are plenty of reports in this forum of people cracking their screens from nothing more than having their phone in their pockets. Personally, I got a sturdy case and put tempered glass screen protectors on it to give it more rigidity. Others avoid pocketing the device all together.
-It's IP certified, but not covered under warranty if it gets water damaged. Also, the IP rating is for fresh water (i.e. not salt water or necessarily chlorinated water ).
-The screen is covered by an ASF which is prone to finger prints and scratching (especially if you plan to use a pen). Get a screen protector of some kind. Removing the film could void warranty (YMMV) but many people do remove it.
-take care with the flaps... kinda flimsy
-take care with magnetic cables-- can brick your device if you put them on the wrong way. Not officially supported by Sony.
Aside from the solvable physical weaknesses (and the camera) it's a very solid device - attractive design and runs like fire.
If you have questions (after a search of course) ask in this forum. It's a small community, but like a small town you begin to recognize everyone and people generally want to help. Response time can vary though.
Come back and let us know how it goes (and add any new tips you have for future users).
Thanks unidentifier.
Some real nuggets in your post. I appreciate it.
I am familiar with rooting, roms, bootloaders concepts, just not Android specifics. I will read Blueether's Everything Root thread when I have some spare time. My phone will come with Sony ROM, not GPe. From the quick reading I've done up to now, the 2 things that have stuck on rooting are:
- earlier versions are easier to root than latest (may be moot point if root on earlier doesn't stick when OS updated)
- need to back up a few things, especially not to lose some Sony keys to restore certain functionality (DRM related?)
I would like a stable, reliable device so can't really see myself moving away from the Sony ROM (which looked quiet good, unlike some other manufacturers' bloatware), so root to use as and when needed, not to install different ROMs. Depending on whether rooting sticks or has to be redone with OS updates, I'll do it after careful reading of the instructions. I haven't decided but I get the impression I should apply any OTA updates to have a patched device and worry about rooting later. Is that right, or is there advantage rooting sooner before these updates?
Your point on protection is well noted. Most of my posts so far have been in the Accessory sub-forum trying find a good case. I will be using the ZU more like a tablet, mostly at home on the couch or at work on my desk, it won't replace my phone being carried around everywhere, certainly not in pocket. I have purchased what seems to be the sturdiest case (ebay 121248924363) which has a magnetic charging access- this looks like a cheap version of the Incipio Dual Pro, which doesn't have magnetic charger access- a deal breaker for me.
My initial plan on case was to use a less protective option (ebay 181400289992) which I have also bought but not yet received. Even if the first case is strong enough, neither provide any screen protection (I will be carrying in a large bag with things like keys that may scratch) so I am looking for an additional container to use when carrying. Slightly overkill would be a Pelican type hard plastic shell with foam, more likely I will use a tupperware container.
Yes, in deciding on the ZU, I saw the many debates on ASF. The main question for me was whether it is best to install a glass protector over it (in which case, ideally on day 1) or to replace it (removing ASF). My conclusion (maybe wrong) was it is better not to have a/another protector on top of the ASF and given my light finger (no pen) careful (indoor) usage the ASF alone should be OK. Unfortunately, all this seems a bit subjective- clearly ASF is not scratch resistant to the extent of Gorilla glass but the complaints about it aren't scratches from fingers/nails, they seem to be due to keys in bag/pocket, stylus/other pointer, etc. I also saw various comments on how the ASF felt better, maybe not as smooth as glass, it was closer to the desired experience. ASF seems to be the biggest discussion topic on ZU, and many opinions.
Regarding the IP rating, I see it as a bonus not a challenge. My watch is 150M waterproof but I still take it off when showering. No other phone of mine has ever had flaps and I was even considering cutting/taking them off (gasp...the horror..am I expelled from ZU community?) as they get in the way, especially the USB. After looking at the options, I've decided to use the magnetic port (will use real Sony Dock's cable and/or Magnector X) for charging and Miracast technology to display on TV not USB. While I don't care too much about the flap, the integrity of the USB connector is still important. Daily USB charging and USB/MHL adapter use after a year or two takes it toll.
I have no use at all for the rear camera. I'll only occasionally use the front camera for video calling.
So a few questions/doubts, but nothing major. Going over the points like this makes me more reassured. Would be interested in your thoughts.
jess91 said:
Thanks unidentifier.
Some real nuggets in your post. I appreciate it.
I am familiar with rooting, roms, bootloaders concepts, just not Android specifics. I will read Blueether's Everything Root thread when I have some spare time. My phone will come with Sony ROM, not GPe. From the quick reading I've done up to now, the 2 things that have stuck on rooting are:
- earlier versions are easier to root than latest (may be moot point if root on earlier doesn't stick when OS updated)
- need to back up a few things, especially not to lose some Sony keys to restore certain functionality (DRM related?)
I would like a stable, reliable device so can't really see myself moving away from the Sony ROM (which looked quiet good, unlike some other manufacturers' bloatware), so root to use as and when needed, not to install different ROMs. Depending on whether rooting sticks or has to be redone with OS updates, I'll do it after careful reading of the instructions. I haven't decided but I get the impression I should apply any OTA updates to have a patched device and worry about rooting later. Is that right, or is there advantage rooting sooner before these updates?
Your point on protection is well noted. Most of my posts so far have been in the Accessory sub-forum trying find a good case. I will be using the ZU more like a tablet, mostly at home on the couch or at work on my desk, it won't replace my phone being carried around everywhere, certainly not in pocket. I have purchased what seems to be the sturdiest case (ebay 121248924363) which has a magnetic charging access- this looks like a cheap version of the Incipio Dual Pro, which doesn't have magnetic charger access- a deal breaker for me.
My initial plan on case was to use a less protective option (ebay 181400289992) which I have also bought but not yet received. Even if the first case is strong enough, neither provide any screen protection (I will be carrying in a large bag with things like keys that may scratch) so I am looking for an additional container to use when carrying. Slightly overkill would be a Pelican type hard plastic shell with foam, more likely I will use a tupperware container.
Yes, in deciding on the ZU, I saw the many debates on ASF. The main question for me was whether it is best to install a glass protector over it (in which case, ideally on day 1) or to replace it (removing ASF). My conclusion (maybe wrong) was it is better not to have a/another protector on top of the ASF and given my light finger (no pen) careful (indoor) usage the ASF alone should be OK. Unfortunately, all this seems a bit subjective- clearly ASF is not scratch resistant to the extent of Gorilla glass but the complaints about it aren't scratches from fingers/nails, they seem to be due to keys in bag/pocket, stylus/other pointer, etc. I also saw various comments on how the ASF felt better, maybe not as smooth as glass, it was closer to the desired experience. ASF seems to be the biggest discussion topic on ZU, and many opinions.
Regarding the IP rating, I see it as a bonus not a challenge. My watch is 150M waterproof but I still take it off when showering. No other phone of mine has ever had flaps and I was even considering cutting/taking them off (gasp...the horror..am I expelled from ZU community?) as they get in the way, especially the USB. After looking at the options, I've decided to use the magnetic port (will use real Sony Dock's cable and/or Magnector X) for charging and Miracast technology to display on TV not USB. While I don't care too much about the flap, the integrity of the USB connector is still important. Daily USB charging and USB/MHL adapter use after a year or two takes it toll.
I have no use at all for the rear camera. I'll only occasionally use the front camera for video calling.
So a few questions/doubts, but nothing major. Going over the points like this makes me more reassured. Would be interested in your thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can update to 4.4.4 if it doesn't come installed on your device, then root using the easyroot tool. I installed a plastic wet install screen protector directly over the asf and it seems to reduce the ghost touches. Currently I run the stock Sony rom rooted with xsposed modules to tweak statusbar and give four buttons for softkeys with custom icons. Also sdcard fix for write access to sd.
adfurgerson said:
You can update to 4.4.4 if it doesn't come installed on your device, then root using the easyroot tool. I installed a plastic wet install screen protector directly over the asf and it seems to reduce the ghost touches. Currently I run the stock Sony rom rooted with xsposed modules to tweak statusbar and give four buttons for softkeys with custom icons. Also sdcard fix for write access to sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As @adfurgerson said, if the ZU is not on 4.4.4 the update to that either by OTA for by manually flashing a FTF (see stickies again). once on 4.4.4 the root with easyroot, install superSU, back up TA, install xposed and all should be good in the world.
The OTA to 5.0 (.1?) will either wipe root of will fail with root (I think only 1 OTA managed to work well with root) so you will have to flash a FTF to get the latest Lollipop when it arrives. Root is easy if you unlock the bootloader, if you want to keep the bootloader locked then it is wait for an exploit time.
I got mine on eBay, as an early present ? for me. ? headphone jack was defective, so Sony replaced the one I sent in with a new device. One week , from when FedEx picked up defective phone ? , to the delivery ? of the model I am writing from.
I am running stock Sony, as I am far from being tech savvy with my gadgets.
Actually synced all my contacts ,and apps from Google ,so setup was very easy. Strongly suggest to back up to your Google account ,as well as using PCC for backup as well.
Got a genuine Sony DK30 at a good priceline eBay as well , which I highly recommend, since there seems to be problems with the USB port flap staying closed.
Hooked on the big screen, plus LTE, which I have at&t as my provider here in the US. Speeds here in my rural area are disappointing, will see how they are when I travel to NYC later this week.
Otherwise, very satisfied with this mobile phone .
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 06:12 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:08 AM ----------
I also splurged on ilLumishield screen protectors front and back, to prevent major scratches, and a liquid screen cleaner for smudges on this, and my Xperia L and Vaio notebook. Rubber plastic case for protection, cheap from eBay, but looking at the Sony cover w/stylus and built in battery, that seems to be very expensive, whether on Amazon or eBay.
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
Great, quality replies! Love it.
adfurgerson said:
You can update to 4.4.4 if it doesn't come installed on your device, then root using the easyroot tool. Currently I run the stock Sony rom rooted with xsposed modules to tweak statusbar and give four buttons for softkeys with custom icons. Also sdcard fix for write access to sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
blueether said:
As @adfurgerson said, if the ZU is not on 4.4.4 the update to that either by OTA for by manually flashing a FTF (see stickies again). once on 4.4.4 the root with easyroot, install superSU, back up TA, install xposed and all should be good in the world.
The OTA to 5.0 (.1?) will either wipe root of will fail with root (I think only 1 OTA managed to work well with root) so you will have to flash a FTF to get the latest Lollipop when it arrives. Root is easy if you unlock the bootloader, if you want to keep the bootloader locked then it is wait for an exploit time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I thought the jump to Lollipop would wipe any root. Presuming incremental updates are possible (even if/when Lollipop is available to me, I have the choice to only update to 4.4.4 and not to latest) I will follow the advice. I am new to Android to would actually like to play around with the old 4.x first, just out of curiosity.
I have no immediate interest in unlocking the bootloader (ie to load custom ROMs) but would do so if it makes rooting practical. But, I don't need root immediate- at least, I don't think I do. I like Titanium backup, but even that shouldn't be critical for the first few weeks. I need to read up a little more, starting with blueether's sticky.
frothe3 said:
Got a genuine Sony DK30 at a good priceline eBay as well , which I highly recommend, since there seems to be problems with the USB port flap staying closed. Hooked on the big screen, plus LTE, which I have at&t as my provider here in the US. Speeds here in my rural area are disappointing, will see how they are when I travel to NYC later this week. Otherwise, very satisfied with this mobile phone .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The DK30 is on my list, as is a Magnector X as I need 2 and can't decide from opinions which is better. What are you using to connect to your big screen? USB/MHL or Miracast? I don't want to use the USB flap on a daily basis so thinking of getting a Netgar PTV3000.
adfurgerson said:
I installed a plastic wet install screen protector directly over the asf and it seems to reduce the ghost touches.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
frothe3 said:
I also splurged on ilLumishield screen protectors front and back, to prevent major scratches, and a liquid screen cleaner for smudges on this, and my Xperia L and Vaio notebook. Rubber plastic case for protection, cheap from eBay, but looking at the Sony cover w/stylus and built in battery, that seems to be very expensive, whether on Amazon or eBay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I spent more time reading up on the topic of ASF and screen protectors, and I'm getting a little worried. It seems a feather can crack ASF! Altough I will use the device very carefully (indoors, just fingers) it seems best I get some screen protection. I don't want to remove the ASF, at least not until I settle in with the device, consensus seems to suggest adding a protector on top of the ASF may cause some pointing issues and reduce clarity somewhat but it is not terrible. I would prefer the really dry (static) types, that come off with ease- don't want residue/chemicals involved. I don't need impact protection so leaning away from tempered glass, which also tend to be quiet expensive. Some glass protectors I've had have been very grippy (I have moist figures/humid climate), in a way I prefer the grittier lower quality plastics for feel. I will look into dry plastic variants.
I saw the only good video on the iLumishield (SamTheeGeek on youtube), but installation wasn't shown. Any idea how/what taking it off would be like? Also, looks very shiny. I took a quick look on their site and I see a few options including matte option. Which do you have frothe3? I like the prices, $10-15 for 2-3 packs. I wonder how these compare with ones like Clarivue which seem to come up a lot in searches.
I just purchased the illumishield Blue Light screen protectors front and back, because it is supposed to be easier on the ? eyes, causing less eyestrain .
I'm a novice myself, I never root, and only flashed a branded device to generic once, with my Xperia X10a several years ago . Brings advantages and disadvantages ,the advantages won out in the end.
For throwing video ? ,I believe Mirracast or DLNA is the way to go.
I really like having an unlocked mobile Phone .
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 05:06 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:02 AM ----------
The illumishield got lots of positive feedback on Amazon, that is why I chose them over any other screen protector. They have three different types. I would go to their website to check out illumishield. Would also check out the one you mentioned on Amazon, to check reviews, before you go and buy.
This novice wishes you luck ? .
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
frothe3 said:
I just purchased the illumishield Blue Light screen protectors front and back, because it is supposed to be easier on the ? eyes, causing less eyestrain .
The illumishield got lots of positive feedback on Amazon, that is why I chose them over any other screen protector. They have three different types. I would go to their website to check out illumishield. Would also check out the one you mentioned on Amazon, to check reviews, before you go and buy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. illumishield definitely passes the Amazon test. Reviews look good. I wanted to see some detailed videos/pictures, but will trust the reviews.
It looks like the application (and removal) is easy, without much mess. I will stick on top of ASF, want to put on and take off without using chemicals. This is very important, and illumishield seems similar to the Clarivue I was looking at (not as popular a brand/product).
Going by their site, I see the 3 types: regular, matte, with blue light filter, in sets of 2 or 3, just front screen or both front and back. I've seen general recommendations (not specific to illumishield) to "stay away from matte" due to distortion in both sharpness and color (rainbow effect). I will be using indoors (home/office) with lights from ceiling (sometimes strong flurescent/spot lights) so am concerned shininess will be a major issue. In videos the screen looks really shiny.
This is the first time I'm seeing the blue filter you have- does it actually work in reducing eye strain and does it look different (worse colors or sharpness)?
I will be using a case so the back protection isn't too important, I presume the back is always the same. I might buy one set with back and another just fronts to test. I have to try to find some comparisons between blue filter and regular, if blue looks the same (color/clarity quality) I'll go for the blue and maybe a matte.
The matte option apparently reduces pixel clarity, even the good brand ones like illumishield. I will first try the regular before the more expensive blue filter or matte if too shiny. Unfortunately, illumishield is not available in Europe (I'm in studying the UK for the next year), and they charge crazy amount for shipping and will take 3 weeks to arrive. For now, I'll have to make do with a cheaper type and pick up illumishield when back stateside.
Hey,
I just bought a Z Ultra myself and after searching and reading a lot on the forums I'm still left with a few questions.
unidentifier said:
-take care with magnetic cables-- can brick your device if you put them on the wrong way. Not officially supported by Sony.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How can you tell if you put them on the right way? I ordered a magnetic adapter from Amazon (it hasn't arrived yet) and now I'm worried that I will use it wrong.
Also I'm a bit confused about Lollipop for this device. Apparently there is an officially version for the GP Edition which will be ported over to the normal edition. Right now I'm on stock Android (4.4.4) but I want to install a custom ROM as soon as possible. Should I wait for Lollipop or will this take another few weeks/months?
And is there any ROM/kernel combination you can recommend? Right now I'm thinking about using SlimKat.
Thanks for your help.
Mangoniter said:
Hey,
How can you tell if you put them on the right way? I ordered a magnetic adapter from Amazon (it hasn't arrived yet) and now I'm worried that I will use it wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, to start off with you use these cables at your own risk. Since they're not made by Sony, there aren't necessarily controls for quality or standards. Sony wouldn't have to service your phone for a non-recommended third party cable (again, YMMV as it has for users here). Go with a reputable source, with established positive reviews for the product itself to be safe. This said, I personally use one regularly and I'm hoping it's not doing any damage (but I also know my regional Sony Service Centre will likely service it).
CORRECT USAGE:
As you'll notice from the magnetic port on your phone, there are two small prongs. One is larger and more oval shaped while the other is more circular. See the picture below where the left port is the larger one:
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"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
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Image 1: http://goo.gl/A2nnRA
Correspondingly the adapter will have two female spaces that are differently sized for the prongs. That's how you know which way they go. In this image the bottom port larger to accommodate the larger prong:
Image 2: http://goo.gl/9vsSBN
That's how you know for sure. As a rule of thumb, it seems most manufacturers align the cables so the cord is going down the phone is held in portrait.
The port is intended to be used with a dock, which eliminates the problem of putting it in the wrong way. With a cable, it's too easy for the magnets to connect the opposite ways and bring your device, which is probably why Sony has never made magnetic cables.
Mangoniter said:
Also I'm a bit confused about Lollipop for this device. Apparently there is an officially version for the GP Edition which will be ported over to the normal edition. Right now I'm on stock Android (4.4.4) but I want to install a custom ROM as soon as possible. Should I wait for Lollipop or will this take another few weeks/months?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first port of the Lollipop GPE is here (unlocked bootloader (UB) only at time of this post):
http://goo.gl/7RtQ7o
The Kitkat GPE port is available for both locked and unlocked bootloaders:
http://goo.gl/HjAnzC
They are excellent.
Mangoniter said:
And is there any ROM/kernel combination you can recommend? Right now I'm thinking about using SlimKat.
Thanks for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The recommended practice is to use the kernel that comes zipped with the ROM so you have one that works as intended for installation. I would look through the ROM's threads for other kernel recommendations.
unidentifier said:
...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, thank you so much for this detailed answer. I really appreciate it.
The Lollipop port looks pretty good but I'll probably wait a little longer before I flash anything. The magnetic adapter should arrive in a few days and I'll just mark both connectors to avoid any mistakes.
Thanks again and have a good day!
This is a good thread been an android fan for a few years upgrading slowly and bought this lovely monster. Little niggles is its sometimes unresponsive pressing the power button and sometimes slows down for no reason. Stamina not really helpful so will try battery guru. Rooted now and xposed on it running greenify and bootmanager running better. Installed dual recovery and now pondering on the next steps to go.
My phone arrived a few days ago, let me provide an update and ask a few more question in bold:
- great device, very happy.
- it came with 4.4.4 (14.4.A.0.108), I'm not sure if the vendor (Expansys UK) applied updates (the unit is new but the box not sealed) or came like this from Sony. I won't root until Lollipop issues resolved, my biggest reason to root is for host file editing (Adaway)
- after peeling off the heavy duty screen protection (not ASF, the thing that comes with most you are supposed to remove) I applied a screen protector. I was going to order an Illumishield but they were too expensive (about $20 including shipping for 2 pairs of front and backs) and would take at least 10 days (probably more given time of year) to be shipped from US to UK. Instead I bought ebay 360780294389, 5 pack (fronts only) for about $4. I applied the first one, no problems, screen looks good, not too shiny. I have not removed the plastic layer (with instructions) on the back, I thought about applying one of my screen protectors on the back but these are somewhat firm plastic, I presume the ones intended for back are more flexible/different?
- I've placed the phone in a case (and so the back protection should be OK). I do not recommend 121248924363, it may work if you straighten out the back and use glue to stick the rubber and plastic pieces together but overall it felt like something from a dollar store. I recommend ebay 181400289992. This won't protect against heavy bashing but provides good feel in hand and scratch/slip protection to the back without being too thick. I had to widen the magnetic charging port, it would not accommodate the plug. I am using the cable removed from genuine Sony DK30. After much thought, I went with this over Magnector for peace of mind. No brand cheap stuff off ebay for some accessories are fine, I would never risk it with batteries, chargers, etc. The cable would fairly easily come loose without the case, with the case it's really good and only comes off when I want it to. With the case it won't fit the dock (even with the wider case option) so you would have to sandpaper it to make it wider. I will order another DK30 and take the cable out to have a second cable.
If I use the phone more like a tablet at home/office, is it better to keep it plugged in (fully charged) or unplug/run down and charge back up again? Also, is it possible to switch off the green LED signalling charge above 90%?
Somewhat related, must the power button really be used to wake device? I was expecting tapping on screen would do it. Power button is a bit difficult to hit with the case.
I installed a few apps from Google Play, mostly from the big players. Is it safe to assume all apps have been vetted properly? (like Apple store) Some apps require access to things that don't make any sense, so I avoid them. Also, when an app has access to certain things e.g. SD media card read/write, am I correct this is always restricted to the sandbox of the app and not full system/card wide?
I will be migrating my web surfing from PC to ZU. On PC, I've used Firefox with various add-ons and, most importantly, an edited hosts file for over 5 years now. For hosts file, it seems Adaway simplifies the manual editing but all this requires root. For now, I'll put up with ads, need to read up still on rooting. Having been a long time FF user, I tried the Android app but was disappointed it is noticeable slower to load pages and does not scroll smootly like Chrome. I tried Puffin which seemed OK, quiet fast. I have not tried Dolphin or Opera which seem to be the other big ones but I have a feeling I'll keep using Chrome. It seems most optimized, in a way it feels like part of the OS and not "an app" on top.
Chrome doesn't support add-ons, which I thought would be a deal breaker but thinking about it almost all of my FF add-ons on PC are to undo the functionality lost over the years with FF updates- mostly looks, so not relevant to Chrome on Android. At this stage, the biggest miss is my Youtube experience for which I used GreaseMonkey scripts on FF PC. The Youtube app plays videos fine but the interaction is so minimalist- no comments, can't easily jump from a video to user page, etc. Playing video via Chrome results in very choppy quality.
After about 10 hours of web browsing with Chrome, my biggest annoyances (besides the adds I will address with root later) is not being able to make the "request dekstop site" option stick. With a display size this big in widescreen mode, I find almost always prefer the original site over mobile versions or apps. I like the notification function from apps, but wish it could be represented in widgets like tiles on Windows. But, in general both apps and mobile look a bit childish on the ZU.
Is Chrome generally the best overall experience on the ZU? I'm particularly interested in non-Chrome fans, like FF users on PC. I have heard hit & miss things about Dolphin and Opera, I will probably try them in a few days but interested in the community view.
I have to find a way to get my bookmarks and passwords from PC to ZU. I see a few opions, I don't want to do this via sync so I would probably go via SD card.
2 misc questions:
The Google search widget: I thought when I tried this in the store, clicking on the search box (not the microphone) brought up the keyboard on top of the home screen (not a full new screen). Am I misremembering?
The charger (EP880) whines already. I'm used to chargers eventually whining after some months but not from day 1. Is it just mine or are they all like this?
I put on ilLumishield screen protectors front and back on my Z Ultra today, screen looks really good.
Unfortunately, detritus and bubbles are underneath, a little disappointed and distracting. But I really like the illumishield, and the feel and feedback from the screen is very good.
Also highly recommend Bryson Screen Cleaner, got it for my bare screen on Xperia J. Phenomenal! Cleans without streaks, although smells disgusting. Screen on Sony Vaio notebook computer ? is the cleanest since it was new.
Rubber plastic case, which is basic, but no longer care for. So, have to look for another GOOD phone case.
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
frothe3 said:
I put on ilLumishield screen protectors front and back on my Z Ultra today, screen looks really good.
Unfortunately, detritus and bubbles are underneath, a little disappointed and distracting. But I really like the illumishield, and the feel and feedback from the screen is very good.
Also highly recommend Bryson Screen Cleaner, got it for my bare screen on Xperia J. Phenomenal! Cleans without streaks, although smells disgusting. Screen on Sony Vaio notebook computer ? is the cleanest since it was new.
Rubber plastic case, which is basic, but no longer care for. So, have to look for another GOOD phone case.
Sent from my C6806 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
Thanks, unfortunately this does not answer any of my questions.
Can you tell me if the back protector with your illumishield is different/thinner material or just like the front?
Related
I have the x10 today.....it will be almost a year on 1.6 no multi touch. Lets not get into semantics of time. I would just like advice for what to do when I receive it.....friday I think. Can't wait 2.1 before the new year. All tips appreciated.
Sent from my X10a using XDA App
Would it be safe to assume you are in Canada and with Rogers - since these are the only 2 full featured Android phones Rogers really offers?
Coming from the X10 you are going to get a far more lightweight user interface that (even with the stock rom image) is about as close to a vanilla Android experience as there is. You are also going to get multi-touch and pinch-zoom.
I got the Liquid E in August - it was a free upgrade so the price was right. I almost immediately rooted it and installed the Liquid Community Rom (LCR_1.8). My initial reason was that it appeared that Rogers had disabled the Google Maps update that provided TomTom style turn by turn navigation. I'm told by other Rogers/Liquid users that Google Nav works for them, but it didn't for me and Rogers told me they didn't support applications. I also didn't care for all the Rogers/Acer bloatware that was installed - RogersMyAccount, urMusic, urFooz, RogersNav.
I've been reasonably happy with my Acer Liquid E - I came from a Blackberry. The pros:
Has all of the expected hardware. Hi-rez screen, multi-touch, camera (5MP, no flash), video (480p), accelerometer, haptic feedback, speaker, reasonably decent ear buds, 3G/EDGE/WiFi/bluetooth/GPS, FM radio (but no drivers yet), microSD, microUSB, etc.
Out of the box with Android 2.1 and expected to go to 2.2 by November.
Snapdragon CPU - underclocked to 788Mhz. You can over clock it, but battery life will really, really, really suck.
Fast lightweight user interface.
Nice high resolution screen (not so good in sunlight though).
Acer is committed to keep it updated - at least to Froyo, possibly beyound.
Sufficient community support - not on the same scale as HTC/Samsung/Motorola, but sufficient. There are already 2 or 3 Froyo ROMS available.
Cons:
Cheap looking glossy casing. Virtually all cell phones have plastic casings, but most don't look or feel so "plasticy".
Plastic screen bezel. Top end phones use glass, mineral crystal or "gorilla glass" screens that feel heavier and are more resistant to scratching. A screen protector is a must.
Hardware: No IR, no flash, no 720/1080p video, no front facing camera. meh.
Battery life is barely acceptable - but it is my understanding that currently no Android phones have really good battery life. There are higher capacity batteries available, I haven't tried any yet.
Not as stable as my blackberry (which never, ever crashed or went crazy in 5 years). I reboot my phone probably once a day to solve instability issues. I have had issues where the touch screen just goes nuts on occasion. I had tweaked up the touch sensitivity using gScript, and a couple of days ago i restored the original settings. This seems to be better.
Not a lot of choice in accessories. There is only 1 company currently making silicon skins and they are out of Hong Kong and sell only on eBay. Same HK based company sells extra screen protectors. PDair sells leather cases out of the US.
I suggest you go to eBay now and buy a silicon skin or leather case and a couple of extra screen protectors. If you are all day, on the go, away from a charger, you might want to look into an extra battery. While you are at it, pick up a higher capacity (8-16GB) microSD card.
Do a bit of browsing on this forum and others on the community developed ROMs. Rooting and installing a third party rom will void your warranty, but it is pretty easy to unroot and restore the factory ROM (assuming you back it up before you start). I'm going to move to a 2.2 ROM once I am satisfied that the stability is good enough (I use my phone for business all the time).
Hope this helps.
Thanks this is the info i was looking for. It's too bad i couldn't wait for the galaxy....but couldn't deal with the short comings of the x10 mostly the lack of support. Will follow your advice can't wait to root and froyo oh and multi touch.
Hey guys,
I am currntly the proud owner of a Asus Transformer eee pad, TF 101
I have it rooted and a bit overclocked.
I love sony products but I have to say I am still doubting of trading my Transfomer for a Tablet S
What are the things I am missing at the moment and what am I going to mis when I decide to switch.
can you guys help me a bit with the cons and pro's ?
The transformer PROs
- keybord dock
- extended batery life becauseof dock
- bigger screen
- a lot of custom roms and things to play with
The Tablet S PROS
- User Interface
- Design of tablet
- IR to control my Bravia TV
- PS certified ( controller )
the Transformer CONs
- minor light bleed
The Tablet S CONs
- not a lot of custom ROMs (yet)
- no gorilla glass
they have the same cpu right? but what about the gpu ?
A definite Pro is native support of the dualshock controller - I play Tomb Raider 1 to 5) and Abe's Oddysee / Exodus daily !!.
Must admit however that I use Fpse to do it, these ps1 games are not available 'officially' on the Tablet S store (yet)
I am an extremely proud owner of the Sony. People are always looking at in when in in a cafe. It is stunning to look at and when holding it the balance is perfect, whether it be portrait or landscape mode.
I'm not one for "run of the mill" gadgets, i like something different and the Sony is just that. I looked at the Transformer and decided other wise due to the fact of the enormous size of it and the "run of the mill" looks. Having the ability to play certified( and not) games is incredible and i shall be investing in a ps3 controller shortly to play these type of games.
OH OH, did i mention the incredible infra red remote control, I am able to control my Sky box, LG surround sound and my TV all in the comfort of my Favorited chair.
This little baby has just been rooted and as far as I'm concerned the Sony has just been born. I was fortunate to have only bought the Sony 1 week before it was rooted and now the gates have opened to hopefully custom roms( not to bothered really) and other good things.
So to conclude, this is one tablet that i will be keeping for some time, the screen, speed, looks and the geek factor makes it a winner.
Ps. The one thing i need now is the external sd to be used for system data.
David.
Everyone is going to experience different tablets differently. So what you need to ask yourself is "Am I happy with my tablet?"
If the answer is yes then stop looking over the fence and enjoy what you have
If no, then perhaps you should indeed look at trading it in.
I for one regret buying the damn thing. Slowest piece of junk I've ever touched once you put a few things on it. Keyboard lags out like crazy so I have to type at turtle speed.
Unfortunately it was a joint purchase with my gf and it's either this or an iPad, so I'm boned.
The remote is pretty much a novelty at best - you have to look at it everytime you use it. I much prefer a one handed physically guided real remote even if I need 4.
I'm not about to go looking up the specs of your tab but I'm pretty certain it is a tegra 2 device (same cpu and gpu).
Also a big con - no gorilla glass. I had it wrapped in a tshirt and when I pulled it out of my bag and unwrapped it there were 2 little scratches on it so not happy.
After a couple weeks I really started to become very unhappy with the build quality. Creak, hollow cheap plastic sounds. Sometimes the screen makes funny hollow sounds when you press it too!
Obviously this is just my opinion on it and I realise plenty of people really like the device.
DreadPirateDan said:
Everyone is going to experience different tablets differently. So what you need to ask yourself is "Am I happy with my tablet?"
If the answer is yes then stop looking over the fence and enjoy what you have
If no, then perhaps you should indeed look at trading it in.
I for one regret buying the damn thing. Slowest piece of junk I've ever touched once you put a few things on it. Keyboard lags out like crazy so I have to type at turtle speed.
Unfortunately it was a joint purchase with my gf and it's either this or an iPad, so I'm boned.
The remote is pretty much a novelty at best - you have to look at it everytime you use it. I much prefer a one handed physically guided real remote even if I need 4.
I'm not about to go looking up the specs of your tab but I'm pretty certain it is a tegra 2 device (same cpu and gpu).
Also a big con - no gorilla glass. I had it wrapped in a tshirt and when I pulled it out of my bag and unwrapped it there were 2 little scratches on it so not happy.
After a couple weeks I really started to become very unhappy with the build quality. Creak, hollow cheap plastic sounds. Sometimes the screen makes funny hollow sounds when you press it too!
Obviously this is just my opinion on it and I realise plenty of people really like the device.
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Just for your problems Dan, I'd recommend taking it back. With that many problems, thats more than enough cause for a replacement device and my Tablet has none of the problems you mention. My Tablet can keep up with my iPad 2, no problems. The keyboard seems pretty speedy (but I mostly use SwiftKey, anyway), and the build quality on mine is flawless. Even after banging around in my bag for weeks, theres not even a sign of a scratch or a creak.
As for the original question, I absolutely love mine. I used to own a Samsung Galaxy Tab, then picked this up and I love it. I don't usually have the same problems as others since the SD card change doesnt overly fuss me (I use Astro, which deals with it just fine)
Ok thanks for the replys.
The tablet I have now is great I freaking love the damn thing, but ...
Like diddy64 said I know its true, because i have had all sony android phones and currently the arc s.
This phone has not best specs out there but for me it has the Sony WOW factor, when you hold than you feel it lays so good in your hand and the design is just amazing.
Is the tablet S the same under the tablet categorie as the Arc S is under the phone categorie ?
- does it feel good holding it in your hands ?
- when you see it you go WOW! ?
1. Sony display: Super deep blacks, video playback crisp and clean, it's far more color saturated than any other tablet. Period.
2. Remote control: TV, BluRay, DVD, 7.1, WD Live, etc. I can go from room to room and select multiple devices on the fly... yes, instantly. This means no matter where I am in the house, I can be the super-dude with the outrageous all-in-one remote. Hotel TV's? Set-up in a heartbeat. Also, there's no way you are going to misplace this baby! Fantastic.
3. Network playback: Audio and video is fast and clean. Whatever they did with the wifi update, the speed and range of the 300mbps n works supremely well now, excellent really. It's far better than any other tab... at any price. Try ES File Explorer with your network shares. The iPad sux, the ASUS is awful (say what, how could they screw that up?) Yeah, OK the Galaxy range is just about as good, but real world it tops at about 45mbps. The Sony is flat out far superior. Try it.
4. Sony PDF Reader: Superb, Kindle style side by side page layout, clean, crystal clear, even at low rez. I read lots of downloaded eMags: Travel, Design, Health, Tech, Science, Automotive, etc. The installed Sony reader is the best. Faster absorption with a straight forward left to right format. Rasterization and reflow are incredible. The Sony black on white saturation is a big part of it too. See it to believe it.
5. Size/Design: One handing with this one is crazy good. Holding in left, (i.e. Kindle or Skype) taking notes or holding mobile phone with right. Balanced feel is perfect, somebody did a lot of of fearless "new design ergo live-test" homework. Also, using 'Thumb Keyboard 4' is a breeze. Text and email is so much easier at this size point than with any other tablet, Samsung Galaxy included. I'm doing this reply on the S1, it's easy.
6. Sony DLNA: I can throw 'drag n drop' vids/tunes from the external SDcard to any/all the TVs, xBox's, audio devices (and soon to the car radio.) Scenario: S1 in cradle on bedroom dresser, with that nice Sony desk clock display running, Sony DLNA broadcasting in the background, seamlessly throwing vids to the TV? We don't need no stinking HDMI cables! Fun stuff.
OK, there are lots of little things to like with this tablet. Sorry to sound like a fanboy ad for Sony, but I shopped for the right tablet for a solid month then knew I was making the right decision with the S1. Now rooted, (ty ty djrbliss!) I am enjoying the S1 even more. Have had the thing for three months now, it just keeps getting better.
I've had my Tablet S for about 5 months now and use it daily. It's now surpassed my PC as my tool for web browsing, and I haven't even touched the browser on my phone in months.
If you're trying to decide what to do, I might suggest waiting type of improvements Sony will make with the ICS update. One feature that was mentioned is the ability to throw your tablet Screen to your TV (not just media like it currently does). I don't know how this feature works or if you can throw absolutely anything, but if that's the case then the tablets lack of HDMI would be more than forgiven. Who knows what else they'll be coming out with.
EDIT.
I should also mention I haven't had a single problem with defects in the craftsmanship of my tablet. I've dropped it several times on hardwood and tile floors, and not a single dent.
Also for those talking about scratches on the screen, please note that every single Tablet S comes with a helluva thick screen proector from the factory. The scratches you're seeing are on that, not the screen. The screen itself, once you remove the protector is surprisingly good, and handles fingerprints quite nicely when swiping. One of my friends with the Tablet S had the Sony screen protector on top of it (this is before we knew there was a factory protector) and the idiot managed to drop his tablet screen first onto the corner of a cinderblock. There was a hole straight through the Sony screen protector and we thought he had chipped his screen. Once we discovered and removed the factory protector, we found his screen was perfectly intact. This damned tablet can take a beating!
vivftp said:
I've had my Tablet S for about 5 months now and use it daily. It's now surpassed my PC as my tool for web browsing, and I haven't even touched the browser on my phone in months.
If you're trying to decide what to do, I might suggest waiting type of improvements Sony will make with the ICS update. One feature that was mentioned is the ability to throw your tablet Screen to your TV (not just media like it currently does). I don't know how this feature works or if you can throw absolutely anything, but if that's the case then the tablets lack of HDMI would be more than forgiven. Who knows what else they'll be coming out with.
EDIT.
I should also mention I haven't had a single problem with defects in the craftsmanship of my tablet. I've dropped it several times on hardwood and tile floors, and not a single dent.
Also for those talking about scratches on the screen, please note that every single Tablet S comes with a helluva thick screen proector from the factory. The scratches you're seeing are on that, not the screen. The screen itself, once you remove the protector is surprisingly good, and handles fingerprints quite nicely when swiping. One of my friends with the Tablet S had the Sony screen protector on top of it (this is before we knew there was a factory protector) and the idiot managed to drop his tablet screen first onto the corner of a cinderblock. There was a hole straight through the Sony screen protector and we thought he had chipped his screen. Once we discovered and removed the factory protector, we found his screen was perfectly intact. This damned tablet can take a beating!
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How did you remove the factory installed screenprotector? i tried it, but it looks like it's on there to stay. My se arc had a factory installed screenprotector to, and i was able to take it of.
Sent from my Sony Tablet S using xda premium
The factory screen protector does take a little work to remove. First things first you need to be able to pull up a corner of it, then it's just a matter of slowly tugging very hard. It's sticky, and we actually had 2 people work on it - 1 holding it and 1 tugging at the protector until we eventually got it off. Underneath the screen itself will be kinda sticky afterwards, but that was cleaned up pretty quickly. I was actually quite surprised how well the screen itself resisted fingerprints when compared to the factory protector and the Sony protector.
What the? I'v never seen any evidence of a screen protector on mine :S.. this is most interesting. I'll suss it out when I get home, if it has one then this is the best news i've heard in ages .
But not to get my hopes up too much... it does feel very much like scratched glass when you touch it with a finger nail, not scratched plastic
Why is it that you're thinking of moving over to the Tablet S?
I'd say that both are great devices...but one isn't a big enough upgrade from the other.
My guess is that you're like me and just like getting NEW stuff lol. You should force yourself to wait and buy a tegra 3 device. Even wait and get the next sony one with tegra 3 or stick with ASUS or whatever lol. I don't think it's too good an idea to move between the tegra 2 tablets right now. You'll just be finding sinilar pros and cons between all of them.
I didn't realize it either. Hell, I've owned my Xperia X10a for about a year and it took that long (and applying a third party screen protector) to realize Sony had put one on from the factory!
When you look at your tablet, look at the bottom corners holding it in landscape mode. You'll see the edges of the screen protector the easiest down there. My friend who removed his protector still hasn't put another one on and his screen doesn't have a single scratch - this is now about 1 month since we removed it. If you are intent upon removing it, it does take a bit of work but it will eventually come off if you go nice and slowly.
If you really only have a couple of scratches on it though, I suggest leaving it on. It is quite a thick piece of plastic and actually provides some great protection for the screen. If you're planning on putting another one on though, then go for it.
The Transformer is too heavy especially when connected to the keyboard dock.
I also like the blinking light (next to the On/Off key) when there are incoming emails.
vivftp said:
The factory screen protector does take a little work to remove. First things first you need to be able to pull up a corner of it, then it's just a matter of slowly tugging very hard. It's sticky, and we actually had 2 people work on it - 1 holding it and 1 tugging at the protector until we eventually got it off. Underneath the screen itself will be kinda sticky afterwards, but that was cleaned up pretty quickly. I was actually quite surprised how well the screen itself resisted fingerprints when compared to the factory protector and the Sony protector.
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I finally got the screenprotector from the tablet it's much better this way, just like my arc, with less dust and fingerprints. (My arc is a year old and almost since the beginning without the screenprotector and has no scratches) thanx!
Sent from my Sony Tablet S using xda premium
Well I just like sony better but my asus is a good tablet.
and yes I like having new stuff
I've had an offer to trade my tablet for a new tablet S, one on one no extra price
He guys just wanted to let you know I joined the club, tablet s owner reporting in
depulle87 said:
He guys just wanted to let you know I joined the club, tablet s owner reporting in
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Good choice mate, sony s is a great tablet, very portablet, not to big, not to small!!
And the Sony S style is perfect to hold for long time
Just looking for some opinions here. I currently have a Samsung Focus which was my first true smartphone. I've used a bunch though including the S2 and the iPhone 4s. I honestly think windows is the best OS out of the 3. But the 2nd gen of windows phones don't have much to offer above the focus, so I don't see it being worth it to grab a new windows phone. Also the weak marketplace is a killer especially when my friends are constantly usings apps like ptt and various *** 'with friends' games.
But I had every intention on probably sticking with a new Windows phone until I heard of this phone. Just because it offers something regular phones don't.
Advice? I'd also like opinions on the size. Not how it feels in your hand, I could care less. But how it fits in pockets, the weight... whether or not you can carry it around like you could carry your old phone.
How's the music integration? Zune wasn't fantastic but I quite liked it. I use my phone every day as my mp3 player at the gym. Does it function well? And back to the last question on size... could I fit it in a pair of gym shorts? (not cardio)
How much better is browsing on it? Do you find yourself using the internet much on it, or still always using a laptop if you have it? I thought I'd be using it all the time with my focus, but with the 3.7" screen i never do unless I'm not around a computer.
And are there any integrated bonuses that this phone has that the SII or other similar smartphones don't have? (aside from the notes app).
Thanks a lot guys. I don't expect you to answer everything but just looking for as much advice as I can get.
Its a big phone, if you gonna wear it with gym shorts, depending on the activity it could slip out of you pockets. Phone is super light, easy to fit in pockets unless you wearing skinny's. Besides the s pen options, internet looks great on it, i use it often.
Music is like any other android, but i use power amp which i recommend. As far as advantages....SIZE...the screen is just bliss and typing on it is just great for big or little fingers. Hope this helps.
I went from a Samsung Captivate to a Focus and now the Note. Honestly you might be dissapointed with the Note. Not because the phone is bad but the Windows Phone 7.5 is just soo smooth. When I used the Focus that phone never crashed, battery life is awesome and everything it did it did well.
The only knock on Windows was the lack of app support. I really missed the apps and games that I had on Android that is why I went back. In the end I might go with Galaxy S2 or Skyrocket. The only reason I will leave the Note is that it is difficult to work the phone with one hand.
If you get passed that and the size the phone is great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA
blazablaz said:
Its a big phone, if you gonna wear it with gym shorts, depending on the activity it could slip out of you pockets. Phone is super light, easy to fit in pockets unless you wearing skinny's. Besides the s pen options, internet looks great on it, i use it often.
Music is like any other android, but i use power amp which i recommend. As far as advantages....SIZE...the screen is just bliss and typing on it is just great for big or little fingers. Hope this helps.
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Yeah I'd use it for weight lifting only, so I won't be running around or anything. I weighed my focus and its over 5 ounces and supposedly the Note is about 6. So as long as it physically will fit in my pocket I think it should be ok.
What do you mean by 'aside from the pen options internet looks great'? Or were those two statements unrelated.
jev3gs said:
I went from a Samsung Captivate to a Focus and now the Note. Honestly you might be dissapointed with the Note. Not because the phone is bad but the Windows Phone 7.5 is just soo smooth. When I used the Focus that phone never crashed, battery life is awesome and everything it did it did well.
The only knock on Windows was the lack of app support. I really missed the apps and games that I had on Android that is why I went back. In the end I might go with Galaxy S2 or Skyrocket. The only reason I will leave the Note is that it is difficult to work the phone with one hand.
If you get passed that and the size the phone is great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA
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I definitely noticed the lack of 'smoothness' when messing around with the Galaxy 2 compared to my windows phone... and this is one reason I believe windows is superior... or at least has the potential to be. But there are so few things I actually do with my focus aside from text and listen to music. Screen is too small to browse, no apps to mess with. I also love customization and miss that factor with windows, so that might be fun to have an android.
Also I'm not a traveler or on the go user, so using with one hand shouldn't be an issue.
Can you guys fit the phone in all 4 jean pockets? Or only front, only back?
Think I'd get odd looks if I got a 4 point chest harness and secured it right in the center of my body? or is it not that big..
Really? You come to a Note forum and ask if you should get a Note. What is your expectation? Think we will all tell you NOT to get it?
Hell YES! Even without ICS on this phone it crushes everything. Pending you know how to mess with it a bit with a root/overclock/rom yada yada yada. Ive already gotten into 5 convos with people about it since ive gotten it last week. And all 5 after getting it in their hand said they want one .
kimtyson said:
Really? You come to a Note forum and ask if you should get a Note. What is your expectation? Think we will all tell you NOT to get it?
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notice how others gave useful info and answered some of my questions
i'm not necessarily looking for you guys to decide for me but i had a few key questions and also was wondering if there are any main points i'd be missing leaving windows, or strong points i'd be gaining going to the note.
also i watched a video where the guy was using the stylus for writing and his finger for everything else. i'd imagine you can use the stylus to click on anything you could with your finger, right?
My opinion, the primary reason to move to the Note from the Focus is simply if you want the larger form and access to more apps. As you know, the Windows OS is very efficient and functional, aimed at getting the job done with some flair but not having to constantly fiddle with the the UserInterface. It is quicker and if you like it, I'd stick with it.
My college son has owned the Samsung Focus for over a year now and he really likes it...so do I. In fact on my prior Samsung 4'5" Infuse I often used the "launcher 7" app on my 'droid to simulate a windows phone. I'm playing with it now on my Note.
I can't carry my Note like my prior phones. But that is ok with me. I do put carry it in my front left/rear pockets but when I get it the car it comes out and sits in my car. But that's ok.
Gym shorts? it would probably fit but I certainly wouldn't exercise with it...although you could job/run with it using one of those armbands.
Browsing? I use the browser all the time, it's great. Rarely use my laptop.
The pen is cool...and I use it often to take notes, draw ideas, etc. However, I think an update is needed (and supposedly coming) to help smooth out the interface.
kimtyson said:
Really? You come to a Note forum and ask if you should get a Note. What is your expectation? Think we will all tell you NOT to get it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
This is the best phone ever and Android is the best OS, period.
Opinions on size? Nothing but good, here's the highlights to spare you some time:
I have beg hands, fits me perfectly. Wife has tiny baby hands, she can hardly hold it.
You feel a little weird holding it to your head the first day or so, after that you dont notice.
Splitscreen...oh yea, one of my favorites. Go to landscape and some of your comms go split screen. Email is way easier when you have the lest on left and preview panel on right. Same for you text message screen. Theis is a great way to skim through.
Usability - The white model is a little slick on the back, can cause to slip out of your hand. Solution is a case that most use, but if your like me and like the naked look most of the time then the easy solution is full body skin. I applied a "armor Suit" which is a wet application. This typically leave a grippier almost rubber like feeling left. Awesome for the back, I can lay mine on my flat hand and almost stand it straight up and down before it slides. Some don't like the feeling on the screen but I don't mind it at all and actually prefer it now.
Pocketability- Easy, very easy actually. It's a very flat phone so I carry in back or front pocket with no problem at all. Folks that may have problems would be women who typically have smaller pockets on jeans and slacks and guys who wear skinny nut huggers.
Everyday use - Every app seems easier to use. Games are a blast since you have more room to use virtual sticks without covering most of the screen up (some awesome games on sale right now for $0.50)
Accessories - Suprisingly alot for as new as it is. Lots of metal back plates (got a green one on the way), leather cases, holsters, things of this nature. It helps that the international version has been out a little longer and there are accessories such as the dock that work perfectly fine with out AT&T version. Plus generic slips and pouches made for the Dell Streak 5 often fit our device, sometimes with very slight alterations. Generic batteries, docks, and chargers are out too. Most of these accessories are cheap. I bought a silicon cover, full film protector, 3 batteries, charger, and metal back cover, all for under $40 off amazon from several vendors and thats with shipping.
Development - It's quite slow at the moment, but it almost always is. We're all waiting for ICS (Ice Cream Sandwhich) wich some say is coming soon and others say its not. The phone functions fin with Gingerbread, it's just most of us Android addicts demand the newest OS by any means possible. It'll pick up, it always does.
hope this helped some!
---------- Post added at 09:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:08 AM ----------
PS the S-Pen will make you a master at "Draw Something" game.
Draw something was what initially gave me the idea for the phone Then I started looking into it and now I'm really thinking I'm going to get it. I definitely have to go into my local store first and try it out and put it in my pockets, etc. Hopefully I can get a deal too.
I actually hope ICS doesn't come out for a little while. I like change and being able to mess around with new updates. So since this will be my first droid it'll leave me plenty of time to mess around with it, then when ICS comes it'll feel like a whole new phone once again.
And with some android devices, can't you actually load windows 7.5 on it?
I throw iron all the time wearing basketball shorts aka Gym shorts or sweatpants using my note. I will time to time use my old ipod touch that has a cracked screen being i can toss it around without worry.
But i can easily use my Note without problem in my shorts while working out. I also am a goalie for a mens ice league and have it in my pocket while i dress.
As far as carrying it around normally. Its cold by me currently so i always am wearing one of my bubble zip up vests with a zip pocket i put it in.
I also have a bad habbit of actually holding my phone in my hand wherever i go like to the store etc, etc. So i have a bad habbit of putting it down and not grabbing it and walking away . Luckily i have my GF with me most of the time to "Re-trace" my steps or ask "Do you have your phone" lol. But ive put it in my Nike swishy pants before without a problem.
Some/most people mostly those who don't actually have the phone or have even held one make it out to be like its a foot long and 3"s thick lol. Out of 5 people that i have let hold the phone. Normal sized people not Giants lol. The first words out of their mouth are either wow is so nice or wow is so light and thin.
Its even getting to the point with me the phone is starting to look normal sized!!! 5.8" screen on the Galaxy Note 2? HAaha. there is a tiny bit of room to expand the screen and not the actual device itself it seems. Like for example a good 1/4" or so if they got rid of that ugly ugly AT&T stamp on the top!
Awesome man, that's great info.
A question on the physical glass for the screen.. how is it? I'm not a fan of screen protectors. My focus had what I think they called gorilla glass. It's two years old and theres maybe one minuscule mark on it. Will the note hold up like that or will it need a protector with long term use (long term s pen use as well)?
According to everything I've read - it has gorilla glass. But it's not nearly as good for being anti-scratch as say an iPhone 4s from what I've seen. I've had mine less than a week and have tiny scratches all over the screen. I had my iPhone 4 for a year and had barely anything noticeable.
I set it down (face down - stupid I know) on my desk at work once. Scratched the heck out of it. It's a smooth desk surface so I'm not sure WTF happened. Other than that just into an otherwise empty pocket.
So either I have one with a faulty display - or a screen protector should be considered a pre-purchase item.
Ok. I'll just get one and have them put it on in store. think the main reason i hate them is i always F them up.
SGP GLAS-T
cgibsong002 said:
Awesome man, that's great info.
A question on the physical glass for the screen.. how is it? I'm not a fan of screen protectors. My focus had what I think they called gorilla glass. It's two years old and theres maybe one minuscule mark on it. Will the note hold up like that or will it need a protector with long term use (long term s pen use as well)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
netsyd said:
According to everything I've read - it has gorilla glass. But it's not nearly as good for being anti-scratch as say an iPhone 4s from what I've seen. I've had mine less than a week and have tiny scratches all over the screen. I had my iPhone 4 for a year and had barely anything noticeable.
I set it down (face down - stupid I know) on my desk at work once. Scratched the heck out of it. It's a smooth desk surface so I'm not sure WTF happened. Other than that just into an otherwise empty pocket.
So either I have one with a faulty display - or a screen protector should be considered a pre-purchase item.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cgibsong002 said:
Ok. I'll just get one and have them put it on in store. think the main reason i hate them is i always F them up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get an SGP GLAS-T screen protector they work better than anything out there. I had a SGP oliophobic film and after a week it was all scratched up from the S-pen I went an complained and they returned my money and told me about pre-order for Glas-t and it is the best screen protector ever. It is crystal clear, hard surface ( so s-pen works well with no scratching), I get alot less face oil and finger prints than other protectors (don't know why but stays cleaner) and it self installed just made sure screen was clean and droped it on by accident and it came out with no bubbles it is th most expensive protector I got but well worth it.http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...0PTkDw&usg=AFQjCNEQuEHZN7W18XKdkXZchjZgmdngXg
Just an FYI on the SGP GLAS-t -- they sell them through their Ebay store with free shipping. They also sell through Amazon - so if you have Prime you get free shipping there too. It was over $40 to buy through their site - $35 from Ebay.
JGuinan007 said:
Get an SGP GLAS-T screen protector they work better than anything out there. I had a SGP oliophobic film and after a week it was all scratched up from the S-pen I went an complained and they returned my money and told me about pre-order for Glas-t and it is the best screen protector ever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got mine in yesterday. I was definitely a little pessimistic about how good a glass protector would be not to mention very concerned about the one chance to get it right install. Happy to say that the install was super simple (I have a couple tiny bubbles but nothing worth crying about) and so far it's excellent for writing on the screen.
We'll see how it lasts over time - but my initial impressions are very good!
So I am looking to replace my Ipad. I have been looking at the new Toshiba excite pro with the Tegra 4 CPU.
But I have come back to this Sony Tablet a few times. How do you guys like it? Does it feel snappy? Good quality?
Any negatives? Since it is water resistent, does it make it harder to use the headphone jack, charger jack, etc?
Has it been out long enough that it is considered old technology now? Should I wait?
Mine is not the international version, but the Japanese SO-03E model. Its innards are definitely a little outdated because of the Snapdragon S4 Pro APQ8064 instead of the Snapdragon 600 APQ8064T, but it'll hold its own against almost all current generation devices (in fact it's the fastest standalone tablet I can think of until the Tegra 4 devices hit, since I don't know of any Snapdragon 600 tablets).
It's fast and smooth, but there are occasional hiccups on Sony's launcher and Socialife is noticeably blippy. These are both problems that can be easily circumvented with third party apps. I haven't yet to find quality concerns with my Japanese model, but out here on xda there have been various complaints that include bad waterproofing flaps. It definitely makes you not want to use the flaps often, since although they seem quality enough they don't entirely seem strictly durable.
It's not really old tech yet, but if you want the absolutely fastest chipsets, you have to look elsewhere. The tablet's sheer thinness comes at the expense of battery capacity and while I find the XPERIA Tablet Z has impressive battery efficiency, it has only middling run time due to the low capacity of the battery (6,000mAh) - about 6 or 7h or heavy use on middling brightness.
Hi,
It is my first tablet so my opinion is not biased by other devices. I find XTZ pretty awesome but not perfect.
First of all - the design is amazing. Slim, light and simply beautiful. But unfortunately I find it quite fragile because of that. Sometimes when holding by the edge it triggers touch screen starting stuff like settings or switching screens. It doesn't happen often but still...
Screen is awesome, bright natural colors. It is state of art and maybe not the highest resolution on the market but really more than enough. Only minus is that it is fingerprint magnet. I had few phones before and nothing attract fingerprints more than XTZ or XZ.
Bravia Engine is doing a great job and I just love to watch movies on XTZ especially that is so light that you can do it on the plane or in the bus and don't have to worry that your hand will hurt from holding it.
Overaly it is smooth device but lags sometimes during web browsing(on 30Mbits connection) which is a bit odd.
Using flaps is not problematic but can be sometimes difficult(if you are using Krusell case for it or your hands are big as loaf of bread)
If it comes to technology I've got simple answer for you. Whatever you buy it is already old If you understand that, you will not be dissapointed that your tablet is not the fastest and there is one that scores more on some benchmark
If it comes to battery life I find it very good(based on the small capacity) It last 8 hours on screen time if you browse some web and watch some movies. Probably could last longer if you just play movies as it is using more batt when surfing.
As a conclusion I want to say that I love it regardless of clicking sound of the back cover or constant need of cleaning screen form fingerprints and a few other things that could be better.
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Premium HD app
I found the North American version (32GB Wifi) to be a complete disappointment especially quality-wise:
- the backing was not stuck on properly — probably a defect, but not an unexpected one when double-sided tape is used
- the screen visibly flexed and activated the touch sensor when I pressed on the back
- erratically sensitive screen — perhaps due to tacky feel of anti-shatter film
- diagonal lines on the screen
- shadow along the bottom edge
- the Sony Android build broke Firefox Sync
I suspect the slim design of the tablet made it more prone to those defects. Needless to say, I returned it after a week.
I actually have my eye on the Toshiba Excite Write and it will definitely be the next one I try — the Xperia was for me the 5th in a run of defective tablets from various manufacturers. The decidedly unsexy design of the Excite probably means it's less defect-prone, the OS is as close as you'll get to stock Jelly Bean without a Nexus and Toshiba has promised Key Lime Pie, and finally that Wacom digitizer means it'll be great for handwritten note-taking which is exactly what I need it for. The insane rez screen, Gorilla 2 glass and the Tegra 4 are just icing on the cake for the same price as the Xperia.
the overly sensitive touch screen is due to a software issue, which was corrected in the most recent update, as for all the defects it just sounds like you got the lemon of the bunch ive had mine a couple months and not experienced any of the issues you've described. i love my XTZ i have the SGP311 16GB Wifi only version, its light, slim, super fast (coming from a cube u30gt lol) and im happy with it.
sorry to hear you had such a bad experience though
Yes, mine also has none of the aforementioned problems or defects.
Love it, works really fine.
Only thing is that one has to customize it a bit before it runs optimally (replace pre-installed laggy apps with 3rd party ones, rooting and disabling certain resource hogs etc.).
This of course is not how it should be; the out-of-the-box experience should be flawless on a high end device.
Pros: the looks, waterproofing, awesome gaming with playstation certified, stamina mode, high res screen, IR sensor(unique to this tablet), 4.2.2 update is due for the tablet in a few weeks.
cons: timescape UI is laggy and Since it is slim, you can feel the heat from the processor...
vjawsm said:
Pros: the looks, waterproofing, awesome gaming with playstation certified, stamina mode, high res screen, IR sensor(unique to this tablet), 4.2.2 update is due for the tablet in a few weeks.
cons: timescape UI is laggy and Since it is slim, you can feel the heat from the processor...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the timescape UI?
acdcking12345 said:
What is the timescape UI?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Timescape was the official name for Sony's skin (just like how HTC calls their Android version Sense or Samsung names theirs TouchWhiz), but it seems they've dropped that name. The XPERIA launcher is occasionally laggy but systems apps such as Settings, Messaging, etc. all run flawlessly.
My unit has fairly flawless build quality as far as I'm concerned - buttons are slightly mushy, but that's not uncommon. Rigidity is impressive, but slight flex is possible with significant pressure (something you shouldn't be applying to any device in the first place). But what gets me is just how nice the materials feel, especially the grippy plastic back.
salanos said:
Timescape was the official name for Sony's skin (just like how HTC calls their Android version Sense or Samsung names theirs TouchWhiz), but it seems they've dropped that name. The XPERIA launcher is occasionally laggy but systems apps such as Settings, Messaging, etc. all run flawlessly.
My unit has fairly flawless build quality as far as I'm concerned - buttons are slightly mushy, but that's not uncommon. Rigidity is impressive, but slight flex is possible with significant pressure (something you shouldn't be applying to any device in the first place). But what gets me is just how nice the materials feel, especially the grippy plastic back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went ahead and ordered one. Will have it tomorrow. I hope it is easy to root, etc. As well as to flashing new ROMS on it. I shall see, I guess
acdcking12345 said:
I went ahead and ordered one. Will have it tomorrow. I hope it is easy to root, etc. As well as to flashing new ROMS on it. I shall see, I guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you ordered the Japanese SO-03E, there is a simple just-run-this tool available for it. If not, there are rooting methods discusse here at xda for older versions of international XPERIA Z tablets' firmware.
salanos said:
If you ordered the Japanese SO-03E, there is a simple just-run-this tool available for it. If not, there are rooting methods discusse here at xda for older versions of international XPERIA Z tablets' firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't know there was an international option. I just ordered it from a US company, so I figure it isn't.
Ill have to see what firmware it is running when I get it today.
acdcking12345 said:
So I am looking to replace my Ipad. I have been looking at the new Toshiba excite pro with the Tegra 4 CPU.
But I have come back to this Sony Tablet a few times. How do you guys like it? Does it feel snappy? Good quality?
Any negatives? Since it is water resistent, does it make it harder to use the headphone jack, charger jack, etc?
Has it been out long enough that it is considered old technology now? Should I wait?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have mine for 2 months now and apart from battery taking really too long to fully recharge (6 hours) I can't complain about this tablet. Everything works as it should. I totally recommend it!
Dear XDA community,
This is my first post here, so I would like to start off by thanking all of the hard working, and amazingly talented, developers whom have improved many of my android devices; adding something new and fresh, and making it feel like a new device time after time.
After having an unfortunate accident with my Galaxy Note 2 – two unfortunate accidents actually, first I smashed the screen, and then I dropped it on the back cover, warping the whole device, forcing up the whole plastic frame, and making it unable to charge – quite a critical function, isn’t it – I am looking for a new phone to buy. Now rather than later.
When I saw the Xperia Z Ultra though, I fell in love. I love the design, I love the physical size, I love the slimness and I love the performance.
There are some things I am concerned about though. I would love any of you guys advice on this.
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Road Trip said:
Dear XDA community,
This is my first post here, so I would like to start off by thanking all of the hard working, and amazingly talented, developers whom have improved many of my android devices; adding something new and fresh, and making it feel like a new device time after time.
After having an unfortunate accident with my Galaxy Note 2 – two unfortunate accidents actually, first I smashed the screen, and then I dropped it on the back cover, warping the whole device, forcing up the whole plastic frame, and making it unable to charge – quite a critical function, isn’t it – I am looking for a new phone to buy. Now rather than later.
When I saw the Xperia Z Ultra though, I fell in love. I love the design, I love the physical size, I love the slimness and I love the performance.
There are some things I am concerned about though. I would love any of you guys advice on this.
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very nice, polite post.
I would like to help you BUTTTTTT. I also live in Europe, Southern Europe and I have yet to even set eyes on the Sony xperia Z Ultra. I do own the xperia z mobile also the xperia Z tablet.
I have also owned the note and just found it too big for my daily usage. The Ultra is going to be massive. I mean massive. Like you I want one BUT am thinking very hard before I purchase. You see next month there are going to be numerous new devices introduced including some from Samsung, the note 111.
I am unsure about only one area of the Ultra and that is the size. Just how pocket friendly is this going to be? I used to get annoyed with my note as every time I sat in the car the phone would dig into by groin. I ended up only carrying it. Sold it within less than a year of ownership.
I have zero reservations regarding the quality of the Ultra. Sony are a top brand with many years of consumer product research and after sales etc.
I am not going to take the jump to the Ultra until I see what's coming next month. New mobiles from Sony, HTC, Samsung and LG to name a few are going to be released. I don't think any of them will have the same massive screen but that is fine for me. 5.5 or 6" would be the max for me, I think?
Its a dilemma. The Ultra introduced into the EC will be LTE 4G so no worries there. More than that I cannot say?
Kindest regards.
Road Trip said:
Dear XDA community,
This is my first post here, so I would like to start off by thanking all of the hard working, and amazingly talented, developers whom have improved many of my android devices; adding something new and fresh, and making it feel like a new device time after time.
After having an unfortunate accident with my Galaxy Note 2 – two unfortunate accidents actually, first I smashed the screen, and then I dropped it on the back cover, warping the whole device, forcing up the whole plastic frame, and making it unable to charge – quite a critical function, isn’t it – I am looking for a new phone to buy. Now rather than later.
When I saw the Xperia Z Ultra though, I fell in love. I love the design, I love the physical size, I love the slimness and I love the performance.
There are some things I am concerned about though. I would love any of you guys advice on this.
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's my impression based on my 8-hours experience with the ZU:
Build quality
Just put a screen protector on top of the shatterproof film. Many reports it won't interfere with the screen sensitivity. I myself haven't got my hand on a screen protector, so I just use the plastic cover with various logo that is on the lcd when you first open the box.. no touch issue :laugh:
Water resistance
The screen reacts like cr*p. Few drops, running water, partially submerged, then the phone will feel all touchy. Random touches. Submerged entirely, there's seem to be no random input anymore but it won't respond any touch. This is a limitation of current capacitive touchscreen technology, I think. Take it out and wipe it dry, good as new.
Loudspeaker
Not too loud, but enough for me. As a ringtone, it maybe not loud enough in a noisy environment. Not sure since haven't tried many scenario
Size
BIG. Width-wise, yes it sits nicely in my (not baggy, but not skinny)jeans pocket. But tall-wise.. well this is where ZU comes sho... no, long. It's almost too long for my taste. When I use jeans with deeper pockets, I can sit down without having my hip speared by the ZU, but smaller pockets, yes, I can feel it, and a bit annoyed. Walking is no problem. Lucky me most of my jeans fall into the deeper-pocket-category
Availability
Can't help you there :silly:
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, both sides are glass (DragonTrail i believe), which is "scratch proof" like Gorilla Glass, but that doesn't mean it's shatterproof. Glass is glass after all, and if you drop it on the ground, it'll most certainly shatter. The only thing the shatter protectors do is to keep the screen in one piece once it shatters.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll react like any other capacitive screen; not that gracefully. It'll do its thing and you won't have any control, but it'll survive and that's the most important thing.
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like the Ultra shares the same problem like its little brother - the Xperia Z. Audio levels are pretty low compared to other devices, but there's a reason for that. They are both waterproof and there's a membrane on the speaker so water doesn't penetrate the speaker and destroys the device.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Luckily (i can't believe i'm saying this) winter is coming, and i'll wear a jacket most of the time when i'm outside, so i hope it won't be a huge problem (which i doubt).
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat as you. I'm from Norway and i haven't even touched the Ultra yet, so it'll be interesting once i get the chance to play with it. I have no idea about who, what or where you can get the Ultra in the Netherlands (once it's released), but my bet is to check your typical big carriers since they are the first ones to receive new devices.
Also, your English is very good, so no excuses are necessary, and your post is excellent. It's quite refreshing to read a good post and not the typical "when can buy ultra store cheap help help" (yes, that's a totaly normal post around here)
Road Trip said:
Dear XDA community,
This is my first post here, so I would like to start off by thanking all of the hard working, and amazingly talented, developers whom have improved many of my android devices; adding something new and fresh, and making it feel like a new device time after time.
After having an unfortunate accident with my Galaxy Note 2 – two unfortunate accidents actually, first I smashed the screen, and then I dropped it on the back cover, warping the whole device, forcing up the whole plastic frame, and making it unable to charge – quite a critical function, isn’t it – I am looking for a new phone to buy. Now rather than later.
When I saw the Xperia Z Ultra though, I fell in love. I love the design, I love the physical size, I love the slimness and I love the performance.
There are some things I am concerned about though. I would love any of you guys advice on this.
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with the above.
Build Quality I find to be very good.
Water resistance as mentioned above. Drops of water set off the screen so it will go mad. When fully submerged the screen will not accept touch input. Need to set volume buttons to take pic. Otherwise good clear pics/video.
Loudspeaker - not the greatest, its works. I use bluetooth external speakers.
Size - yes a bit of an issue. It'll fit in your jean pocket but you'll be climbing stairs like you have a wooden leg. I found a money belt that it fits into for carrying on my person. Otherwise it sits on a desk.
You missed battery! - the battery life so far is very good considering the size of the screen.
If I were you I'd wait for the Honami release which is due soon. It has 20MP camera with flash for starters.
All Dutchmen speak/write GOOD english.
Hello,
Also concerning about buying it, might jump on it next week. I had a 3G version in my hands and in term of build it is really good, it is big but like I bring a N7 everywhere I feel it even more comfortable to use than a 7" tab.
The only thing that worry me is all the different models, as I actually live in Vietnam and soon go back to French I go for the C6833 that is the LTE version that will be available in Europe and normally is sold as international version. That's worry me for the upcoming customs ROMs, this is often a mess with the baseband. Because the launcher is interesting, but it is hard to believe that now a day we still have launcher with limited scroll.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Road Trip said:
Dear XDA community,
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since your post is so well written (and you have nothing to apologise about! Better written than most native English speakers, I kid you not.) I felt inclined to respond with my 2 cents.
I have had it for over 3 weeks now
Build quality
Nothing to complain about. In fact better than most manufacturers out there. Nice choice of materials, designed and put together well.
With regard to the screen and the shatterproof film which comes on top of it from the factory, leave it on. Removing it will mean removing the Sony Logo, and also your warranty.
Honestly, it is barely noticeable. In fact, I think most average users are not aware that there is a sheet there. As the name suggests, it is a sheet that prevents glass from flying everywhere WHEN and IF it shatters. It is for safety reason above everything else. It is not there to protect your screen.
So leave it on, and put a 3rd party protector immediately after purchase, and it will be as good as new every time you replace it.
It is up to you if you want to spend a fortune on these protectors. My experience tells me whatever the brand, they do scratch, and need replacing once in a while. Mine is a dollar, and it will last me for up to half a year. Then I will buy another and replace it. Good as new again.
If you are thinking that having a sheet on top of a sheet will hinder performance, rest assured. NO, it won't.
Water resistance and Speakers
Nothing to add, comments above reflect my opinions too
Size
To answer your question specifically, yes, it really is passport x 1.5.
Unless you wear those super-skinny-jeans, it should fit regular jeans no problem.
I am 5'7, wear loose fitting jeans. Levi's. I have about 5 different models, but they all fit without poking their heads out.
It fits. But is it comfortable? As someone said in previous comment, going up and down stairs feels funny a bit. Walking is no problem.
Since it feels well built, it gives no impression of fragility. But sometimes I remind myself not to put it in my back pocket for 2 reason.
Firstly, if I forget about it and sit down, I'd hate to think what would happen.
Secondly, for back pockets, it will poke out. It must be inviting for pick-pocketers.
Ryland Johnson said:
Very nice, polite post.
I would like to help you BUTTTTTT. I also live in Europe, Southern Europe and I have yet to even set eyes on the Sony xperia Z Ultra. I do own the xperia z mobile also the xperia Z tablet.
I have also owned the note and just found it too big for my daily usage. The Ultra is going to be massive. I mean massive. Like you I want one BUT am thinking very hard before I purchase. You see next month there are going to be numerous new devices introduced including some from Samsung, the note 111.
I am unsure about only one area of the Ultra and that is the size. Just how pocket friendly is this going to be? I used to get annoyed with my note as every time I sat in the car the phone would dig into by groin. I ended up only carrying it. Sold it within less than a year of ownership.
I have zero reservations regarding the quality of the Ultra. Sony are a top brand with many years of consumer product research and after sales etc.
I am not going to take the jump to the Ultra until I see what's coming next month. New mobiles from Sony, HTC, Samsung and LG to name a few are going to be released. I don't think any of them will have the same massive screen but that is fine for me. 5.5 or 6" would be the max for me, I think?
Its a dilemma. The Ultra introduced into the EC will be LTE 4G so no worries there. More than that I cannot say?
Kindest regards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love South Europe. It's my holiday destination of choice. I love how spontaneous and happy in general the people are there. The big cities are so alive, a day and at night, and at the country side the people are just so nice. Maybe it has something to do with not raining every other day .
But I guess we’re in the same boat about how this phone compares to the competition. I guess that means that it’s a great time to buy a new phone though.
unk_damnation said:
Here's my impression based on my 8-hours experience with the ZU:
Build quality
Just put a screen protector on top of the shatterproof film. Many reports it won't interfere with the screen sensitivity. I myself haven't got my hand on a screen protector, so I just use the plastic cover with various logo that is on the lcd when you first open the box.. no touch issue :laugh:
Water resistance
The screen reacts like cr*p. Few drops, running water, partially submerged, then the phone will feel all touchy. Random touches. Submerged entirely, there's seem to be no random input anymore but it won't respond any touch. This is a limitation of current capacitive touchscreen technology, I think. Take it out and wipe it dry, good as new.
Loudspeaker
Not too loud, but enough for me. As a ringtone, it maybe not loud enough in a noisy environment. Not sure since haven't tried many scenario
Size
BIG. Width-wise, yes it sits nicely in my (not baggy, but not skinny)jeans pocket. But tall-wise.. well this is where ZU comes sho... no, long. It's almost too long for my taste. When I use jeans with deeper pockets, I can sit down without having my hip speared by the ZU, but smaller pockets, yes, I can feel it, and a bit annoyed. Walking is no problem. Lucky me most of my jeans fall into the deeper-pocket-category
Availability
Can't help you there :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess a stick-on screen protector will indeed the best solution. If it does not interfere with the touch response, we will have the best of both worlds: a “shatterproof” film, and no permanent scratches.
Wiping the screen, but without damage is still a pro. It’s a shame I can’t carelessly use it in the shower or at the pool, but at least there won’t be any damage. I have had phones getting damaged by normal rain. It would be a great feeling, to know that it will still function afterwards.
LordManhattan said:
Well, both sides are glass (DragonTrail i believe), which is "scratch proof" like Gorilla Glass, but that doesn't mean it's shatterproof. Glass is glass after all, and if you drop it on the ground, it'll most certainly shatter. The only thing the shatter protectors do is to keep the screen in one piece once it shatters.
It'll react like any other capacitive screen; not that gracefully. It'll do its thing and you won't have any control, but it'll survive and that's the most important thing.
It looks like the Ultra shares the same problem like its little brother - the Xperia Z. Audio levels are pretty low compared to other devices, but there's a reason for that. They are both waterproof and there's a membrane on the speaker so water doesn't penetrate the speaker and destroys the device.
Luckily (i can't believe i'm saying this) winter is coming, and i'll wear a jacket most of the time when i'm outside, so i hope it won't be a huge problem (which i doubt).
I'm in the same boat as you. I'm from Norway and i haven't even touched the Ultra yet, so it'll be interesting once i get the chance to play with it. I have no idea about who, what or where you can get the Ultra in the Netherlands (once it's released), but my bet is to check your typical big carriers since they are the first ones to receive new devices.
Also, your English is very good, so no excuses are necessary, and your post is excellent. It's quite refreshing to read a good post and not the typical "when can buy ultra store cheap help help" (yes, that's a totaly normal post around here)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny how there are so many Europeans on here, I didn’t see that one coming…
You’re so right about it surviving being the most important thing. It’s just so incredibly nice that Sony actually realizes that these phones are used in the real world. With accidents, and indeed rain. I certainly hope that Samsung and HTC can also start caring about real world durability.
Funny though, how us XDA people change our clothing for our devices. Most people do it the other way around .
But sticking to the big carriers is a great idea. I have to get a new 4G new plan anyways, and at least I am sure that I dealing with a reputable party.
stevefwt said:
I agree with the above.
Build Quality I find to be very good.
Water resistance as mentioned above. Drops of water set off the screen so it will go mad. When fully submerged the screen will not accept touch input. Need to set volume buttons to take pic. Otherwise good clear pics/video.
Loudspeaker - not the greatest, its works. I use bluetooth external speakers.
Size - yes a bit of an issue. It'll fit in your jean pocket but you'll be climbing stairs like you have a wooden leg. I found a money belt that it fits into for carrying on my person. Otherwise it sits on a desk.
You missed battery! - the battery life so far is very good considering the size of the screen.
If I were you I'd wait for the Honami release which is due soon. It has 20MP camera with flash for starters.
All Dutchmen speak/write GOOD english.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The battery life is a good point. I am -- as I think we all are in here -- a smartphone junkie. The battery on my Note 2 -- a phone famed for its large battery -- doesn’t last till bedtime. So, while I am pretty sure the Ultra Z won’t last me a full day, at least it is not a phone with subpar battery life.
The honami does sound like a great device, but it’s not for me. I feel as if the screen on my Note 2 is too small, so that would be a major downside to the Honami. It is an enormous shame though that the Honami camera isn’t available on the Ultra Z.
bASKOU said:
Hello,
Also concerning about buying it, might jump on it next week. I had a 3G version in my hands and in term of build it is really good, it is big but like I bring a N7 everywhere I feel it even more comfortable to use than a 7" tab.
The only thing that worry me is all the different models, as I actually live in Vietnam and soon go back to French I go for the C6833 that is the LTE version that will be available in Europe and normally is sold as international version. That's worry me for the upcoming customs ROMs, this is often a mess with the baseband. Because the launcher is interesting, but it is hard to believe that now a day we still have launcher with limited scroll.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Carrying around a Nexus 7 2013 was indeed my plan before the Xperia Z Ultra got released. If the Honami or Note 2 turn out to be killer devices, I will buy them and a small tablet.
About the basebands, it is indeed a very serious problem. I am already concerned about how big the development community for this phone will be, but this makes it even worse. I thought Samsung was a mess. It would be a major plus for a device to carry all LTE frequencies including LTE-A in addition to HSPDA+. When travelling that’d be great, and custom roms wouldn’t have to be baseband specific.
jewelkobayashi said:
Since your post is so well written (and you have nothing to apologise about! Better written than most native English speakers, I kid you not.) I felt inclined to respond with my 2 cents.
I have had it for over 3 weeks now
Build quality
Nothing to complain about. In fact better than most manufacturers out there. Nice choice of materials, designed and put together well.
With regard to the screen and the shatterproof film which comes on top of it from the factory, leave it on. Removing it will mean removing the Sony Logo, and also your warranty.
Honestly, it is barely noticeable. In fact, I think most average users are not aware that there is a sheet there. As the name suggests, it is a sheet that prevents glass from flying everywhere WHEN and IF it shatters. It is for safety reason above everything else. It is not there to protect your screen.
So leave it on, and put a 3rd party protector immediately after purchase, and it will be as good as new every time you replace it.
It is up to you if you want to spend a fortune on these protectors. My experience tells me whatever the brand, they do scratch, and need replacing once in a while. Mine is a dollar, and it will last me for up to half a year. Then I will buy another and replace it. Good as new again.
If you are thinking that having a sheet on top of a sheet will hinder performance, rest assured. NO, it won't.
Water resistance and Speakers
Nothing to add, comments above reflect my opinions too
Size
To answer your question specifically, yes, it really is passport x 1.5.
Unless you wear those super-skinny-jeans, it should fit regular jeans no problem.
I am 5'7, wear loose fitting jeans. Levi's. I have about 5 different models, but they all fit without poking their heads out.
It fits. But is it comfortable? As someone said in previous comment, going up and down stairs feels funny a bit. Walking is no problem.
Since it feels well built, it gives no impression of fragility. But sometimes I remind myself not to put it in my back pocket for 2 reason.
Firstly, if I forget about it and sit down, I'd hate to think what would happen.
Secondly, for back pockets, it will poke out. It must be inviting for pick-pocketers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have a good point about the warranty being voided by removing the shatterproof film. I will try a cheap screen protector first. I was under the impression that they were quite bad, but if they are just as good it’s a nice way to save money.
A passport x1.5 would be a great size though. A definite upgrade from the Note 2, but still manageable. I am the same height, and also wear Levi’s so I guess I will be all right.
which model for at&t lte
Road Trip said:
Dear XDA community,
This is my first post here, so I would like to start off by thanking all of the hard working, and amazingly talented, developers whom have improved many of my android devices; adding something new and fresh, and making it feel like a new device time after time.
After having an unfortunate accident with my Galaxy Note 2 – two unfortunate accidents actually, first I smashed the screen, and then I dropped it on the back cover, warping the whole device, forcing up the whole plastic frame, and making it unable to charge – quite a critical function, isn’t it – I am looking for a new phone to buy. Now rather than later.
When I saw the Xperia Z Ultra though, I fell in love. I love the design, I love the physical size, I love the slimness and I love the performance.
There are some things I am concerned about though. I would love any of you guys advice on this.
Build quality
I am seeing mixed opinions about the build quality of the Xperia Z Ultra, and the recent Xperia phones in general. On the one hand Sony itself is touting that the screen is extremely strong, which seems to be the case judging by the drop tests on YouTube. Then again there seem to be many threads on the lack of durability, and how the screen can suddenly crack.
I am also wondering how you guys solve the problem with the shatterproof film. On the one hand, it is a great idea, but on the other hand I would not want my phone to be full of scratches. Can one simply apply one of those tempered glass screen protectors over the screen for ultimate protection? Considering I am quite a clunse – this Note 2 is the first phone I have ever owned that surpassed 6 months of survival – I am quite possibly going to need all the protection I can get.
Water resistance
How does the touchscreen react to water? I have always used my smartphones under the shower. Ever since the capacitive touchscreens, they freak out when a certain amount of water hits the screen. The screen will zoom in and out, the keyboard will give all sorters of weird suggestions, or it will just stop working entirely. According to most sources the phone uses a regular capacitive display.
But does it fare any better when wet? Furthermore are there any screen protectors that you can use while regularly getting the phone wet?
Loudspeaker
Well, how loud can it go? I am currently using the note 2 which has pretty reasonable speaker. I use it while watching movies and listening to music in the shower, but I also enjoy the benefits of a properly loud ringtone.
Size
I am afraid to go this route again, but can this guy comfortably fit in one’s pocket? As far as the internet goes, once again, opinions are divided. Most of my jeans can comfortably fit, length wise, 1,5 passports. Does this mean, as I am theorizing, that the Ultra Z will fit too?
Availability
I am from the Netherlands, a small country in Europe you probably won’t know – or would for its legal drugs and prostitution + drinking age and epic parties, and I would love to buy this phone as soon as possible, since I currently do not have a functional phone. Sadly it will only become available on the 13th of September, and I am not even sure this is going to be the 4G LTE version.
Does anybody have any tips where I can buy this phone on a contract? Sadly paying full price on it isn’t an option at the moment. All my savings have, disappeared on many – and quite diverse – spending’s.
I appreciate your help and tips! I secretly hope I am going to be convinced to buy this amazing phone. Also sorry for my bad English – it is not my native language, and also my apologies for this rather long post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can someone confirm that the international C6806 can b used for North American AT&T LTE bands. dont want to pre-order wrong model
ddiddy22 said:
Can someone confirm that the international C6806 can b used for North American AT&T LTE bands. dont want to pre-order wrong model
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of everything I read, the C6806 is good for North America and work on AT&T but don't have wifi call. After the international version is the c6833 that go europe LTE bands too.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
---------- Post added at 08:20 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:07 AM ----------
Road Trip said:
Carrying around a Nexus 7 2013 was indeed my plan before the Xperia Z Ultra got released. If the Honami or Note 2 turn out to be killer devices, I will buy them and a small tablet.
About the basebands, it is indeed a very serious problem. I am already concerned about how big the development community for this phone will be, but this makes it even worse. I thought Samsung was a mess. It would be a major plus for a device to carry all LTE frequencies including LTE-A in addition to HSPDA+. When travelling that’d be great, and custom roms wouldn’t have to be baseband specific.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, I to wonder how large the community will be. Baseband troubles was a mess on the HTC sensation between 4G 3G and AT&T models. Now it is fine, thanks to the work of the devs.
Right, but they always feel the need to limit bands on the phone. Way to win more money. Why make simple (for the customers) with low margin when we can make complex (for the customers) with high margin?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2