Related
Hi what you guys think of this phone? Is it worth to buy? I'm planning to upgrade my phone
kelvinkou said:
Hi what you guys think of this phone? Is it worth to buy? I'm planning to upgrade my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well of course it is! Awesome phone! And you should ask what to buy and stuff in the device suggestion thread
I've been holding out for the Nexus 4 but I have to admit that the Xperia Z has my attention. I think the splash proof feature is great but taking off the charging port cover every time it needs charging (at least once a day possibly more) would be a real pain. If only they included wireless charging then I would have been sold. If I do get the Xperia Z then I'll probably permanently remove the cover for the charging port and thus lose the splashproof aspect. Luckily the Xperia Z has a lot more going for it. The other reason that I might be apprehensive of the Xperia Z is possibly slow Android OS updates.
Techno79 said:
I've been holding out for the Nexus 4 but I have to admit that the Xperia Z has my attention. I think the splash proof feature is great but taking off the charging port cover every time it needs charging (at least once a day possibly more) would be a real pain. If only they included wireless charging then I would have been sold. If I do get the Xperia Z then I'll probably permanently remove the cover for the charging port and thus lose the splashproof aspect. Luckily the Xperia Z has a lot more going for it. The other reason that I might be apprehensive of the Xperia Z is possibly slow Android OS updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don`t worry if you are a even a barely proficient rom flasher (like me ) sony makes it very easy for you to unlock the bootloader with official support It literally took me less than 10 minute to unlock the bootloader and install cm10 plus kernel.
i think this Xperia Z was the best phone from sony...but more interested with Galaxy Note II GT-N7100
cs098 said:
don`t worry if you are a even a barely proficient rom flasher (like me ) sony makes it very easy for you to unlock the bootloader with official support It literally took me less than 10 minute to unlock the bootloader and install cm10 plus kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know that custom ROMs make a number of enhancements and improvements over stock but I'm actually really keen on using a phone that is just totally stock (or as close to it as possible).
Plus, I've always found custom ROMs to be more unstable than an official ROM specifically for that phone. I've never tried CM ROMs (mainly been using the Resurrection Remix ROM for SGS2).
Techno79 said:
I know that custom ROMs make a number of enhancements and improvements over stock but I'm actually really keen on using a phone that is just totally stock (or as close to it as possible).
Plus, I've always found custom ROMs to be more unstable than an official ROM specifically for that phone. I've never tried CM ROMs (mainly been using the Resurrection Remix ROM for SGS2).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
when the xperia z come out you should try stock based roms, these only takes a week or two become stable with very minimal changes and because the xperia z has jellybean it should be a smooth experience. And besides I heard sony will be upgrading the z and zl to jb 4.2 shortly after its release
cs098 said:
when the xperia z come out you should try stock based roms, these only takes a week or two become stable with very minimal changes and because the xperia z has jellybean it should be a smooth experience. And besides I heard sony will be upgrading the z and zl to jb 4.2 shortly after its release
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, I appreciate that but Sony would shoot itself in the foot if it hadn't announced a quick 4.2 update after release as it would really hamper sales. I doubt they'll be so timely when the phone is 6 to 12 months old and their attention is focused on a new flag ship phone.
Similar story with the Samsung S2 and S3. S3 gets the JB update very quickly after release but S2 still hasn't gotten JB even though JB was released about 14 months after it's initial release.
I'm really hoping that the N4 will continue to receive updates until it is hardware cannot keep up with the Android OS (which will hopefully be at least 2 years).
Hi
I've just purchased a Sony Xperia Z (second hand). I've run the root programme from Kingo (only via PC worked, not via Android itself).
I've got Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) and want to upgrade to the latest one as this version is precluding me from having a couple of apps that I want and have on my other phone.
Can someone please help me?!
Thanks!!
As far as I can tell both are the same as far as bands go.
However, my question lies in, which is more favorable to get in terms of user experience? Which would you prefer? I hear the "bloatware" that Sony includes is actually pretty useful in the Sony version and rather unobtrusive. But at the same time, I thought that the Google play edition was supposed to be more easy to load custom roms. I also understand that the Google play edition is supposed to get the updates faster, but is it really that bad with Sony?
If you had the choice between the two, which would you go for? They are both about the same price, so it's not an issue, it's just a matter of which would be more preferable out of the box.
From Sony Store
http://store.sony.com/xperia-z-ultr...atid-All-Unlocked-Phones?vva_ColorCode=000000
Or...
Google play edition:
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=sony_z_ultra
ssnova said:
As far as I can tell both are the same as far as bands go.
However, my question lies in, which is more favorable to get in terms of user experience? Which would you prefer? I hear the "bloatware" that Sony includes is actually pretty useful in the Sony version and rather unobtrusive. But at the same time, I thought that the Google play edition was supposed to be more easy to load custom roms. I also understand that the Google play edition is supposed to get the updates faster, but is it really that bad with Sony?
If you had the choice between the two, which would you go for? They are both about the same price, so it's not an issue, it's just a matter of which would be more preferable out of the box.
From Sony Store
http://store.sony.com/xperia-z-ultr...atid-All-Unlocked-Phones?vva_ColorCode=000000
Or...
Google play edition:
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=sony_z_ultra
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the GPe but ordered it before Sony dropped their price. The GPe ROM has been ported over to Sony so if you get Sony you can run that. From what I have seen they can both be unlocked and rooted fairly easily. As for the update I would expect it to be ported to Sony rather quickly. Lots more Roms for Sony but there is work going on with a tool to convert Sony Roms to GPe. I would lean towards Sony but get as many opinions as you can before deciding.
I also have the gpe and would've preferred the xperia version. All the native xperia apps are missing obviously and the Google alternatives aren't that great IMO.
Get the cheapest one and root it (maybe even unlock it) and try the rom that fits you.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
adfurgerson said:
I have the GPe but ordered it before Sony dropped their price. The GPe ROM has been ported over to Sony so if you get Sony you can run that. From what I have seen they can both be unlocked and rooted fairly easily. As for the update I would expect it to be ported to Sony rather quickly. Lots more Roms for Sony but there is work going on with a tool to convert Sony Roms to GPe. I would lean towards Sony but get as many opinions as you can before deciding.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, thanks for all the replies from everyone guys.
Second, @ adfurgerson, in order to port the GPe ROM over to the Sony, I"d have to root and unlock right?
I find it interesting that ROMs for the Sony won't work on the GPe. I was under some impression it'd be practically the same, and that the GPe version would be easier to root and unlock, but didn't know the real story behind it.
I whisked through some threads on here that gave me the impression that rooting and unlocking and loading custom roms was quite challenging on the Z Ultra, is this true?
Because of this, I thought I'd just keep it headache free and stick with stock.
On that note, how is the Z Ultra stock? Or is it really that desirable to root/unlock/load custom rom? FOr example, I have an ASUS Transformer TF700, stock, the thing is frustratingly slow/laggy/buggy, IMO, you MUST root/unlock/load custom ROM on that device to make it "functional"/ really appreciate the machine. Another example is the GS3 and GS4, I know plenty of people who are ok with stock.
THanks again to all. Looks like I'm leaning towards the Sony edition, the two grips I had with the z Ultra in general were: lack of LED flash(I like having a "flashlight" on my phones), and perhaps the "small" battery for such a large device.
The Sony Edition is the best option in this case.
The problem with the GPe is that the partitioning has been changed, something that make it very problematic to cross-flash between GPe and Sony and no solution has been offered as of yet. The result is that the ROM selection for the Sony Edition is much better.
Since the GPe ROM has been ported and there are a couple of options including Sony based ones to choose from, the best route is to go with the Sony Edition. Even if you decide to run the GPe ROM (like I do for now), the better selection of ROMs such as Paranoid Android, PAC, SlimKat, CarbonROM etc favors the Sony Edition.
It is also worth to mention that the Sony Edition came out a couple of months before the GPe - the availability of it is also superior since it is being sold worldwide while the GPe can be sourced only from Google in the US. This means that more developers and users have the Sony version, hence more development of ROMs.
When it comes to Sony Editions, I would go for the C6802 (no LTE) or either C6806 or C6833 depending on location and the importance of LTE bands. I have the C6802 since I consider US LTE to be of no importance to me. If I would be in Sweden, I would take the C6833.
The reason for my LTE stance is the fact that decent data plans are cheaper in Sweden than in the US. I don't see any benefits of having 2 GB of LTE data since Internet browsing etc works great on the HSPA+ network of AT&T. I would not start going on Netflix etc with 2 GB of data.
ssnova said:
First, thanks for all the replies from everyone guys.
Second, @ adfurgerson, in order to port the GPe ROM over to the Sony, I"d have to root and unlock right?
I find it interesting that ROMs for the Sony won't work on the GPe. I was under some impression it'd be practically the same, and that the GPe version would be easier to root and unlock, but didn't know the real story behind it.
I whisked through some threads on here that gave me the impression that rooting and unlocking and loading custom roms was quite challenging on the Z Ultra, is this true?
Because of this, I thought I'd just keep it headache free and stick with stock.
And for more controll rom i Installed App Ops
On that note, how is the Z Ultra stock? Or is it really that desirable to root/unlock/load custom rom? FOr example, I have an ASUS Transformer TF700, stock, the thing is frustratingly slow/laggy/buggy, IMO, you MUST root/unlock/load custom ROM on that device to make it "functional"/ really appreciate the machine. Another example is the GS3 and GS4, I know plenty of people who are ok with stock.
THanks again to all. Looks like I'm leaning towards the Sony edition, the two grips I had with the z Ultra in general were: lack of LED flash(I like having a "flashlight" on my phones), and perhaps the "small" battery for such a large device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using the Sony ultra (c6833) stock and rooted with unlocked bootloader . After i tried almost all of them rom i got back to stock sony rom and installed xposed and changed some stuff . I even have the DooMKernel kernel on it and works awsome
@ssnova the GPe was very much usable stock and I tried to convince myself to leave it that way. Unlocking , rooting and recovery was easy enough. I must admit I am unsure on which methods are current for Sony so won't comment there. I plan to do more testing of this over the weekend, if it works it would take one factor out of the equation.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2746562
E90 Commie said:
The Sony Edition is the best option in this case.
The problem with the GPe is that the partitioning has been changed, something that make it very problematic to cross-flash between GPe and Sony and no solution has been offered as of yet. The result is that the ROM selection for the Sony Edition is much better.
Since the GPe ROM has been ported and there are a couple of options including Sony based ones to choose from, the best route is to go with the Sony Edition. Even if you decide to run the GPe ROM (like I do for now), the better selection of ROMs such as Paranoid Android, PAC, SlimKat, CarbonROM etc favors the Sony Edition.
It is also worth to mention that the Sony Edition came out a couple of months before the GPe - the availability of it is also superior since it is being sold worldwide while the GPe can be sourced only from Google in the US. This means that more developers and users have the Sony version, hence more development of ROMs.
When it comes to Sony Editions, I would go for the C6802 (no LTE) or either C6806 or C6833 depending on location and the importance of LTE bands. I have the C6802 since I consider US LTE to be of no importance to me. If I would be in Sweden, I would take the C6833.
The reason for my LTE stance is the fact that decent data plans are cheaper in Sweden than in the US. I don't see any benefits of having 2 GB of LTE data since Internet browsing etc works great on the HSPA+ network of AT&T. I would not start going on Netflix etc with 2 GB of data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, your post clears up a lot from a technical standpoint. I'd probably go with the C6806 since I live in the US and we have LTE in my areas.
Ended up stumbling upon this, thanks to your post.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2451590
I guess the Sony edition it is.
As a person learning to develop android I would choose the GPe, as a consumer it's 50 / 50.
The Sony stock firmware is quite good and the only thing that lags in 4.4 seems to be the live wallpaper, and blote is a minimum - and usefull.
Unlocking either is exactly the same, the only difference ifs if you want to keep your TA partition (DRM keys). You can only do this on the Sony version by doing the downgrade/root exploit/backup dance.
As for ROMs for the GPe there is CM, Carbon, LiquidSmooth and Slimkat, and I believe that if someone would test the flashable zip I wrote we could convert any (I even think stock) ROM to run on the GPe - but no one wants to have developers making thing for their phone by the looks*
* this could easily develop into a rant so I'll stop there
blueether said:
As a person learning to develop android I would choose the GPe, as a consumer it's 50 / 50.
The Sony stock firmware is quite good and the only thing that lags in 4.4 seems to be the live wallpaper, and blote is a minimum - and usefull.
Unlocking either is exactly the same, the only difference ifs if you want to keep your TA partition (DRM keys). You can only do this on the Sony version by doing the downgrade/root exploit/backup dance.
As for ROMs for the GPe there is CM, Carbon, LiquidSmooth and Slimkat, and I believe that if someone would test the flashable zip I wrote we could convert any (I even think stock) ROM to run on the GPe - but no one wants to have developers making thing for their phone by the looks*
* this could easily develop into a rant so I'll stop there
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you're pretty close to making it work for the GP-e, only a matter of time and testers,
I guess I'll lean towards the Sony edition though, since I'll be using it more than developing, though I do play around once and a while.
Slightly astray, but what makes the Google play edition better for learning to develop on android?
nothing really, although I believe it has a much better bootloader/recovery
blueether said:
nothing really, although I believe it has a much better bootloader/recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to confirm
1) if we use the GPE rom on a Sony, will we be able to restore the TA partition and still use the Xperia-specific display enhancements?
2) Even though the partitioning is different, one can flash specific partitions and not the entire ROM, yes? Or are the wires truly crossed: for instance, the bootloader located is in boot?
christcentric said:
Just to confirm
1) if we use the GPE rom on a Sony, will we be able to restore the TA partition and still use the Xperia-specific display enhancements?
2) Even though the partitioning is different, one can flash specific partitions and not the entire ROM, yes? Or are the wires truly crossed: for instance, the bootloader located is in boot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. No, we can't restore the partition while on a custom kernel, but we still get the image processing without the DRM keys intact (aka TA partition) on KitKat builds.
The DRM keys are only important to have in case you have to send your device in for repairs.
2. You can flash the GPe ROM on the Xperia Ultra. You can't run a dully functioning stock Sony ROM on the Ultra GPe (yet), due to partitioning issues and what not. You van flash "everything" on the regular Ultra, not on the GPe, which makes the regular Ultra a better device if you plan to flash a lot of ROMs and you want the option to cross-flash between Sony ROMs and GPe (AOSP ROMs).
Bought mine from Sony, best stock firmware I've ever used, of course mod the hell out of it, but I am very pleased
Sent from my C6806 using Tapatalk
I have multiple Bluetooth devices with Apt-X baked in. GPe does not support it, and I don't think that is going to change anytime soon.
So for me, stock is the only option. Not even CM.
I have tried out most of the alternatives, but keep coming back to stock - the audio quality improvement with apt-x is noticeable. Especially while listening to FLAC, using a player like Neutron.
I prefer gpe, because it feel smoother, simpler, less batt consumption. But yes the gpe is very limited at features and option.
billyliem said:
I prefer gpe, because it feel smoother, simpler, less batt consumption. But yes the gpe is very limited at features and option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, but the GPe ROM is available for the stock Xperia Ultra.
LordManhattan said:
Sure, but the GPe ROM is available for the stock Xperia Ultra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i use gpe rom 4.4.4 at my 6802, i like it.smoother than gpe 4.4.2. And more responsive too. How about the price on the hardware? Stock sony vs the gpe? Is it different?
billyliem said:
Yes i use gpe rom 4.4.4 at my 6802, i like it.smoother than gpe 4.4.2. And more responsive too. How about the price on the hardware? Stock sony vs the gpe? Is it different?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
only ~$10 in it
http://www.expansys-usa.com/sony-xperia-z-ultra-c6833-unlocked-lte-16gb-purple-251965/
http://www.expansys-usa.com/sony-z-ultra-google-play-edition-unlocked-lte-16gb-black-263504/
Hell, can even get the GPe in nz now http://www.expansys.co.nz/sony-z-ultra-google-play-edition-unlocked-lte-16gb-black-263504/
I want to install backgroud defocus from xperia z2 on my rezound. Plis help me
amakabil said:
I want to install backgroud defocus from xperia z2 on my rezound. Plis help me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably won't work... the camera in the Rezound is not supported in most newer kernels, the drivers we have are old, this is been one of the main stumbling blocks in development on this device since he have to do complicated work arounds to even get the camera to work in newer ROMs, the chances that the Z2's camera apk or utilities will even work are slim to none. Sorry. You might be able to find a third party utility in the Play Store that can do this at the software level though, but this isn't my area of expertise...
I want to use the background defocus, maybe I will buy a new device. is there anything you recommend? but not z2 of course, z2 very expensive
amakabil said:
I want to use the background defocus, maybe I will buy a new device. is there anything you recommend? but not z2 of course, z2 very expensive
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I stated before, the camera isn't my area of expertise... I don't have a recommendation for a phone that will do that, I take very mundane pictures. Sorry
Sent from my Nexus 4 powered by Beanstalk ROM and Hellscore kernel
Post your thoughts on how this latest version of Android will make the Z Ultra a better device (or worse) ......................
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2470422,00.asp?mailingID=AC913D3C61FEB18EA49B78DC15CCA2EC?mailing_id=1051491
.............................................................................................................................
TravisBean said:
Post your thoughts on how this latest version of Android will make the Z Ultra a better device (or worse) ......................
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2470422,00.asp?mailingID=AC913D3C61FEB18EA49B78DC15CCA2EC?mailing_id=1051491
.............................................................................................................................
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about run better, but it will be Sexy as f#ck on my white ultra.
Nexus 6 has a 6 inch screen, and they also released the 9 inch tablet, so i hope they've adapted some new or old elements to the bigger screen sizes. Also, Material Design should be responsive, as in it'll resize properly to a device's screen size like a modern responsive website (like Droid-Life and The Verge).
Also, a video previewing the new Nexus tablet hit the web today, and it looks like Google will update the launcher soon. White floating app drawer (like a folder).
Edit: Mentioned video of the tablet.
I just hope they improved the interface.
As it is now, the z ultra still has the interface of a device with a smaller screen size and all the parameters adjusted accordingly ( swipe sensitivity and related). This doesn't work well.
It's too small for a tablet and too big for one-handed operation... but so far there are only two general modes of operation in android: "phone" and "tablet".
Optimally, the z ultra (and related devices, in size) would use an appropriately adjusted UI, something not exactly like "phone" neither exactly "tablet"... sadly, i doubt there will be any development in that direction.
interesting tidbit: the z ultra processor scores higher 7z benchmark score than an amd k II neo processor...
tsiros said:
I just hope they improved the interface.
As it is now, the z ultra still has the interface of a device with a smaller screen size and all the parameters adjusted accordingly ( swipe sensitivity and related). This doesn't work well.
It's too small for a tablet and too big for one-handed operation... but so far there are only two general modes of operation in android: "phone" and "tablet".
Optimally, the z ultra (and related devices, in size) would use an appropriately adjusted UI, something not exactly like "phone" neither exactly "tablet"... sadly, i doubt there will be any development in that direction.
interesting tidbit: the z ultra processor scores higher 7z benchmark score than an amd k II neo processor...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the Nexus 6 has a 6 inch screen, we can already tell how Lollipop will look and behave on the Ultra. We'll have to wait and see if Sony changes anything. I'm guessing the GPe version will run at 400 DPI like today's 4.4.4, while the official build will run at 320 DPI, making UI elements a little smaller.
I don't care though, since it's easily changeable with a tiny build.prop edit.
I'm interested in seeing how the Flashlight quick settings button will function on the Z Ultra, since it doesn't have an LED flash. Hopefully Google will be smart about it and have it work like the Flashlight quick settings tile in PA and CM (Turn screen white and maximize brightness).
ApertureAndroid said:
I'm interested in seeing how the Flashlight quick settings button will function on the Z Ultra, since it doesn't have an LED flash. Hopefully Google will be smart about it and have it work like the Flashlight quick settings tile in PA and CM (Turn screen white and maximize brightness).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sony will add X-Reality and their DSP to the GPe build (like they did with the current build), and i'm guessing that they'll also remove unnecessary features, like the flashlight toggle, but we'll see when the time comes.
Hopefully they switch to 320 dpi instead of that crappy 400 dpi in the current GPe ROM.
Sent from my Sony Xperia Z Ultra
I am more interested in wifi calling because I have T-Mobile.
tsiros said:
I just hope they improved the interface.
As it is now, the z ultra still has the interface of a device with a smaller screen size and all the parameters adjusted accordingly ( swipe sensitivity and related). This doesn't work well.
It's too small for a tablet and too big for one-handed operation... but so far there are only two general modes of operation in android: "phone" and "tablet".
Optimally, the z ultra (and related devices, in size) would use an appropriately adjusted UI, something not exactly like "phone" neither exactly "tablet"... sadly, i doubt there will be any development in that direction.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont want to silence your opinions but what you wrote was completely subjective.
tsiros said:
I just hope they improved the interface.
As it is now, the z ultra still has the interface of a device with a smaller screen size and all the parameters adjusted accordingly ( swipe sensitivity and related). This doesn't work well.
It's too small for a tablet and too big for one-handed operation... but so far there are only two general modes of operation in android: "phone" and "tablet".
Optimally, the z ultra (and related devices, in size) would use an appropriately adjusted UI, something not exactly like "phone" neither exactly "tablet"... sadly, i doubt there will be any development in that direction.
interesting tidbit: the z ultra processor scores higher 7z benchmark score than an amd k II neo processor...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I bought the Xperia Z Ultra over the GPE. I read an excellent comparison and the author stated that he usually chooses the GPE version of a device over the non-GPE, but in the case of the ultra he preferred the non-gpe for the reason stated in this post. The vanilla ui does not take advantage of the large screen .
jaj324 said:
This is why I bought the Xperia Z Ultra over the GPE. I read an excellent comparison and the author stated that he usually chooses the GPE version of a device over the non-GPE, but in the case of the ultra he preferred the non-gpe for the reason stated in this post. The vanilla ui does not take advantage of the large screen .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's also the same reason I got a non gpe device. Wouldn't it be the same or better when we flash a gpe rom and change to 240 dpi?
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
Leechoonhwee said:
That's also the same reason I got a non gpe device. Wouldn't it be the same or better when we flash a gpe rom and change to 240 dpi?
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
320 DPI. The GPe version runs at 400, while the regular one runs at 320. Yes, you can simply change thr DPI to 320 or whatever you'd like.
I don't know anything about DPI, i do know that the Sony UI is scaled to use the larger screen more efficiently.
jaj324 said:
I don't know anything about DPI, i do know that the Sony UI is scaled to use the larger screen more efficiently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's right, but it can easily be done on the GPe version too.
H. E. Pennypacker said:
Yes, that's right, but it can easily be done on the GPe version too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you say "easy" do you mean by rooting and installing a custom ROM?
jaj324 said:
When you say "easy" do you mean by rooting and installing a custom ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
By rooting and either setting it manually by editing build prop, or with an app.
Yeah, that's not what most people would call easy. Easy is just buying the Xperia model with all the Sony bells and whistles. I disabled what i don't use and enjoy the rest. Did you know that the Xperia model actually outperformed the gpe model in performance benchmarks? Vanilla is more of a drag than the sony skin.
jaj324 said:
Yeah, that's not what most people would call easy. Easy is just buying the Xperia model with all the Sony bells and whistles. I disabled what i don't use and enjoy the rest. Did you know that the Xperia model actually outperformed the gpe model in performance benchmarks? Vanilla is more of a drag than the sony skin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is easy and it literally takes 30 seconds once rooted. It is easy, but i take from your reply that it isn't the solution you're looking for, which is a different matter. If you want everything that Sony brings to the table, then the most logical thing would be to buy the Xperia model and not the GPe. Simple as that.
Regarding benchmarks, we have really no idea what's going on. The Ultra is not the only device that's reporting low numbers on KitKat (that's running AOSP, i.e stock Android), but i guess it all boils down to optimized drivers etc. You should not care about benchmarks. The GPe ROM actually runs better (smoother) than the stock Sony ROM even when it scores lower on Antutu. It actually scores the same or higher than the Sony version in other benchmarks (GPU benchmarks etc.)
TL;DR: Just buy the regular Ultra.
My biggest concern with 5.0 is achieving root. There are a few apps that are must-haves for me that require it (arliberator for my car stereo is the #1). I'm not sure we'll get root soon or at all with 5.0. .. and that makes me a sad panda.
So, if I get the Xperia model, NOT the Goole Stock Android version, can I still flash the Stock firmware? Or does it have some limitations in terms of hardware?
PS: In my current situation, I am considering to get one. I was thinking about the LG G Flex, but the 720 screen is a no-no. I would much rather have a Xperia than LG. I had the Nexus 4 once upon a time, and never developed a taste for LG's (rather cheap) hardware.
Thanks.
X0LARIUM said:
So, if I get the Xperia model, NOT the Goole Stock Android version, can I still flash the Stock firmware? Or does it have some limitations in terms of hardware?
PS: In my current situation, I am considering to get one. I was thinking about the LG G Flex, but the 720 screen is a no-no. I would much rather have a Xperia than LG. I had the Nexus 4 once upon a time, and never developed a taste for LG's (rather cheap) hardware.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you got a non GPE Z Ultra you could flash ported GPE version but not the stock firmware. There's already ported version for version 4.4.4 kitkat and version 5 lollipop for the non gpe z ultra. Vice versa, the gpe version can't flash the non-gpe firmwares as it will permanently destroy your device due to different partitioning in both gpe and non gpe version of z ultra.
I did not like LG at first but i fell in love with the LG G3 korean version but with the price i would rather get z3
wtfhax said:
If you got a non GPE Z Ultra you could flash ported GPE version but not the stock firmware. There's already ported version for version 4.4.4 kitkat and version 5 lollipop for the non gpe z ultra. Vice versa, the gpe version can't flash the non-gpe firmwares as it will permanently destroy your device due to different partitioning in both gpe and non gpe version of z ultra.
I did not like LG at first but i fell in love with the LG G3 korean version but with the price i would rather get z3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Z ultra is too thin. I think oldies Nexus 7 is good, the price should be a lot of cheaper today. I wish myself not to get brand new device anymore. The Price of smartphone went down so much within 9 months since released. Better get 1 year old device with half Price....
x1123 said:
Z ultra is too thin. I think oldies Nexus 7 is good, the price should be a lot of cheaper today. I wish myself not to get brand new device anymore. The Price of smartphone went down so much within 9 months since released. Better get 1 year old device with half Price....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I have the old Nexus 7. Makes me want to tear my hear out every time I see it. It's one device I would never recommend to any Android first-timer. They would just never return.
Anyways, the fact that Z Ultra is thin is a plus for me.
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't cross flash the firmwares between the Sony ZU and the GPe devices due to differing sizes of partitions. However there are fully functioning ports of the GPe ROMs, it does not convert the phone nor will it receive OTA updates.
adfurgerson said:
You can't cross flash the firmwares between the Sony ZU and the GPe devices due to differing sizes of partitions. However there are fully functioning ports of the GPe ROMs, it does not convert the phone nor will it receive OTA updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
X0LARIUM said:
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't used either one of these but they are both stable for daily use according to everything I have read.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/development/scrubber-t2961315
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2800414
X0LARIUM said:
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As i've mentioned the ported version is exactly the same rom/firmware as GPE by google modified to fit the non gpe without breaking it. What i mean is you can't flash the official firmware provided directly from google without modification to the firmware hence the ported version.
wtfhax said:
As i've mentioned the ported version is exactly the same rom/firmware as GPE by google modified to fit the non gpe without breaking it. What i mean is you can't flash the official firmware provided directly from google without modification to the firmware hence the ported version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
X0LARIUM said:
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The main thing I stress is the need to back up TA partition (which holds the DRM keys) after rooting, but BEFORE you unlock your bootloader.
Edit.... Should mention the 4.4.4 GPe port can be used with locked bootloader, not so for 5.0 port.
adfurgerson said:
The main thing I stress is the need to back up TA partition (which holds the DRM keys) after rooting, but BEFORE you unlock your bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man but I meant in terms of the device ...any drawbacks..shortcomings ...?
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks man but I meant in terms of the device ...any drawbacks..shortcomings ...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Camera.is poor and lacks flash. I have never carried it in a pants pocket out of fear of cracking screen or back glass. I
broke the charge port flap but it was my fault for forgetting to close it before slipping it into holster/case for carrying it on my belt. If you get a third party magnetic charging cord be sure to attach it in the right direction.
X0LARIUM said:
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing you need to be cautious about. If you want the gpe experience, the ported gpe ROMs work great, we have several android lollipop based ROMs as well. It is a very good device, and if you have any trouble for some reason, I'm sure someone will be eager to help you out here. Its a very friendly community. The only down side is the flash for the camera, there is none.
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks. I have the old Nexus 7. Makes me want to tear my hear out every time I see it. It's one device I would never recommend to any Android first-timer. They would just never return.
Anyways, the fact that Z Ultra is thin is a plus for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the thin were your wish. ZU is right choice. ZU is strong device with good waterproof feature. 5.0 gpe port rom work nicely on ZU. I put 4.4.4 on my ZU due to most banking apps Not work on L. For me "her" thiness is bit problem on holding it, made our palm tired to hold. 2nd all z series xperia will be better with dock ( magnetic charger ) otherwise we need to open charging port everytime to charge it will easily tearing the cover and loss the waterproofing. I used D48 dock magnetic charger for my ZU and Z3c.
x1123 said:
If the thin were your wish. ZU is right choice. ZU is strong device with good waterproof feature. 5.0 gpe port rom work nicely on ZU. I put 4.4.4 on my ZU due to most banking apps Not work on L. For me "her" thiness is bit problem on holding it, made our palm tired to hold. 2nd all z series xperia will be better with dock ( magnetic charger ) otherwise we need to open charging port everytime to charge it will easily tearing the cover and loss the waterproofing. I used D48 dock magnetic charger for my ZU and Z3c.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://uae.souq.com/ae-en/sony-dk31...ging-dock-charger-stand-pod-cradle-6594643/i/
Would this one work?
Also, which other docking charging ports work in that case?
Thanks for the headsup BTW/...
X0LARIUM said:
http://uae.souq.com/ae-en/sony-dk31...ging-dock-charger-stand-pod-cradle-6594643/i/
Would this one work?
Also, which other docking charging ports work in that case?
Thanks for the headsup BTW/...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I find it is hard to find a dock for Z Ultra. Z Ultra unable to fit in the Z1 dock, i've tried but maybe others have better luck. One more thing to be aware is if you ever gonna use magnetic charger please get a genuine sony magnetic charger. Reason being if you use it the opposite way, it will damage your device. With original sony magnetic charger it won't allow you to plug in if its the wrong way.
Hopefully there is no country variant i don't have to worry about. Some of the phones have a country variant (G Flex for example), where one version works better than another. Hopefully there is only one Z Ultra. I am in the UAE.
Had a Z Ultra, now a Z2 and it bugs me to get back to the Ultra.
Sony does have brazil country specific models and non-LTE variants for each of their device (or most of them)
What I know about the ZU variants is this:
LTE Model is C6833
Non-LTE is C6802
Hopefully I did not mess up the numbers here.
Saikyo_San said:
Had a Z Ultra, now a Z2 and it bugs me to get back to the Ultra.
Sony does have brazil country specific models and non-LTE variants for each of their device (or most of them)
What I know about the ZU variants is this:
LTE Model is C6833
Non-LTE is C6802
Hopefully I did not mess up the numbers here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how do they vary apart from the LTE bit? Hopefully everything else is the same....