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As an avid user of the XZU, I have been frustrated with the lack of a flash on he XZU and today I read the news that the ZTE Nubia X6 is finally available. Whilst I love using my XZU with the GPe ROM, I find it really annoying to see the camera ruin my pictures in low light. On the other hand, the ZTE Nubia X6 appears to be everything I ever wanted from a phone/XZU. It has the following key features;
-6.44" Full HD Display
-Snapdragon 801 MSM8974AB Quad Core 2.3GHz and 2 Other variants available as Options
-2-3GB RAM Depending on the model selected -3 models available
-32-128GB Internal Memory
-MicroSD Slot [Still trying to confirm-I really hope it is correct]
-13Mp Front and 13Mp Rear Camera with DUAL FLASH
-Dual Stereo Dolby Optimised Speakers
-DUAL SIM with Dual Standby
-HDMI Port
-4250mAh Battery and Removable Battery Cover (I guess NO waterproofing)
-----Check out full specs here:
http://www.gsmarena.com/zte_nubia_x6-6236.php
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-----Images and more specs here:
http://www.ainol-novo.com/nubia-x6-...reen-android-smart-phone-ram-2gb-nfc-gps.html
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-----Comparison between XZU and Nubia X6 can be found here:
http://www.phonebunch.com/compare-phones/sony_xperia_z_ultra-957-vs-zte_nubia_x6-1438
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-----YouTube Video here;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVo9fAXbqqQ
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The more I read about this phone , the more I get excited. So what do you think? Is it time we shop around or wait and see what Sony has in store with the XZU 2 in September or ditch all and perhaps look at Samsung Galaxy Note 4?
Also, could one of our XDA-Dev forum users confirm for sure if the LTE bands used are Europe compatible or not? I am getting conflicting information so any confirmation from Chinese speaking users would be even more welcome. Thanks and enjoy the conversation!
The specs looks okay, but I won't think about buying anything until I see the ZU2 (if it exists), and if it gets released this summer, I'm not sure if I want to get it. The Ultra is still a top speced device, so a tiny boost in GHz and RAM won't impress me at all this time.
- Last year: We went from S600 to S800 in flagships. Huge boost. 1080p also got widespread in flagships.
- This year: We've gone from S800 to S805. Minimal boost. 1080p is still the norm. An extra gig of RAM if you're lucky.
- Next year: We'll go from S805 to S810. Huge boost. 64bit. Adreno 430. We'll most likely see more of the QHD (2560x1440) displays.
that certainly looks like a very nice looking phone...
china-only, at this point it seems.... however the question is, how easy will dev support be with this? custom roms, etc..
LordManhattan said:
The specs looks okay, but I won't think about buying anything until I see the ZU2 (if it exists), and if it gets released this summer, I'm not sure if I want to get it. The Ultra is still a top speced device, so a tiny boost in GHz and RAM won't impress me at all this time.
- Last year: We went from S600 to S800 in flagships. Huge boost. 1080p also got widespread in flagships.
- This year: We've gone from S800 to S805. Minimal boost. 1080p is still the norm. An extra gig of RAM if you're lucky.
- Next year: We'll go from S805 to S810. Huge boost. 64bit. Adreno 430. We'll most likely see more of the QHD (2560x1440) displays.
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+1 we all better wait
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
The only thing that I see is a huge noticeable difference is the camera. Probably won't feel the difference in ram and CPU. I agree with others hold out.
I would not replace the Ultra because of the camera. A better option is to get a Sony DSC-QX10 or QX100 of the simple reason that they deliver VERY decent pictures. I am very happy with my QX10 and it got me completely "over" the lusting for a device with a "better" camera.
As it is today, I would not replace the Ultra with another device since the most interesting development will be the Snapdragon 810 - I don't think we will see it before Ultra 3 (I would guess the Ultra 2 will have the 805 considering the timing).
A QX10 and a new 128 GB microSDXC card and you are all set.:victory:
E90 Commie said:
I would not replace the Ultra because of the camera. A better option is to get a Sony DSC-QX10 or QX100 of the simple reason that they deliver VERY decent pictures. I am very happy with my QX10 and it got me completely "over" the lusting for a device with a "better" camera.
As it is today, I would not replace the Ultra with another device since the most interesting development will be the Snapdragon 810 - I don't think we will see it before Ultra 3 (I would guess the Ultra 2 will have the 805 considering the timing).
A QX10 and a new 128 GB microSDXC card and you are all set.:victory:
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And let's not forget that if you get the QX10 now, you can also use it with a different phone down the road, so you'll always have a great camera.
E90 Commie said:
I would not replace the Ultra because of the camera. A better option is to get a Sony DSC-QX10 or QX100 of the simple reason that they deliver VERY decent pictures. I am very happy with my QX10 and it got me completely "over" the lusting for a device with a "better" camera.
As it is today, I would not replace the Ultra with another device since the most interesting development will be the Snapdragon 810 - I don't think we will see it before Ultra 3 (I would guess the Ultra 2 will have the 805 considering the timing).
A QX10 and a new 128 GB microSDXC card and you are all set.:victory:
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The QX-100 is an amazing product.
More info here - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2513999
No LTE 800. That's a deal breaker for me as it's a common used band in Sweden.
I had a good look at the QX devices as the poor camera on the Z Ultra is really my only complaint with it however I don't see the devices as alternatives to a decent onboard camera. The problem for me is that they're nowhere near portable enough to function in that role, I prefer to take the RX100 which isn't much larger in practical terms (it still needs a separate pocket as would the QX devices) but the RX100 has the advantage of being much quicker to use. The reason I like having the camera on the phone even with much better quality alternatives is that I pretty much always have the phone in my pocket making its camera handy to catch unexpected moments when I don't have a proper camera on me.
I have my doubts about the ZTE though and still hoping Sony will produce a similar device to the Ultra but with a usable camera.
The Sony supports more 3G and 4G bands. I don't think the ZTE, even its LTE variant, will support LTE from AT&T or T-Mobile. The Sony C6806 and C6806 GPe will work on every band that T-Mobile currently uses.
Also, won't come with Google whatsoever...
I really like the XA's look, unfortunately it is quite weak. However the XA Ultra seems to have some good specs although I'm not familiar with it's cpu. How is MediaTek MT6755 compared to Snapdragon 801 in the Z3?
How big of a downgrade would this be? Can we also compare it to the Nexus 5X since it's similarly priced?
id3alistic said:
I really like the XA's look, unfortunately it is quite weak. However the XA Ultra seems to have some good specs although I'm not familiar with it's cpu. How is MediaTek MT6755 compared to Snapdragon 801 in the Z3?
How big of a downgrade would this be? Can we also compare it to the Nexus 5X since it's similarly priced?
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The MediaTek MT6755 is supposed to be faster than the Snapdragon 801 .
See:
wccftech.com/mt6755-latest-soc-octacore-cortexa53-cpu/
lkirkw said:
The MediaTek MT6755 is supposed to be faster than the Snapdragon 801 .
See:
wccftech.com/mt6755-latest-soc-octacore-cortexa53-cpu/
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I have the normal xa and I have to say I'm highly impressed with it it flies with no lag and the edge to edge display is stunning
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
If you compare every ford automobile to the GT-40 they will all come up short. I have been waiting for this phone to come out. It has a true 6 inch screen, hard to find these days. Any body who calls a phone less than 6 inches a fablet is a idiot . For what you get for the price the only complaint is the battery.
id3alistic said:
I really like the XA's look, unfortunately it is quite weak. However the XA Ultra seems to have some good specs although I'm not familiar with it's cpu. How is MediaTek MT6755 compared to Snapdragon 801 in the Z3?
How big of a downgrade would this be? Can we also compare it to the Nexus 5X since it's similarly priced?
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I think it is a significant downgrade. MediaTek was on the Xperia C5 Ultra, and there is a noticeable lag, but I'm a kind of person that leaves 40+ webpages open and forget to clear out my multi task applications. Supposedly the new MediaTek is smooth with no hickups, I just got my phone today, so we'll see. I came from using the Xperia Z Ultra, which was a SnapDragon beast, I followed Sony's phablet 6-inches lineups from the Z Ultra, T2 Ultra, C5 Ultra, now finally to the XA Ultra. I think the Z Series are strong performing phones. The X series is really for first-time Android buyers, but never had an iPhone. Really, I think it's suited for the Indian 3rd world market, because 16 GB of internal storage fills up so fast! Practically Sony is making throw away phones that will last only a year on the market. Because storage space is the largest issue with this internal storage debacle! No one can really maintain a slim-line storage. That takes an minimalist when there are so many apps to download, and all these alternative photo apps Snapchat and Instagram images go straight to internal and there's save-management to SD Card for these kinda 3rd party apps.
A 6-inch screen calls for stream apps! Yet those apps are huge in file size! I use more that 5 streaming apps... Because my cable app doesn't do it, and each broadcasting show has their own independent app, and you sign in with your cable subscription. It really kills me that I have so little storage to work with. Also the Netflix-s alike.
I am rooting for Sony like a cheerleader, but they need to get it together with the spec choices. A 16GB SD Card on the market now is about $10. To think the internal chip is less than that at wholesale. I keep asking myself, why am I buying a 10 dollar phone for $230? It should really be 128GB and cut the crap.
In conclusion if you're coming from a Z series, and thinking about it... The design is nice, if you want the whole 6-inch screen experience, you will sacrifice a lot and curve your storage by using external and cloud storage. Even then you will have problems moving files back and forth because of Google and SD Storage transfer file restrictions and can only do so when you plug your cellphone in your computer.
Honestly I would just wait for the next flagship phone coming from another Z series phone or the current Z5 series, and this can be a 2nd phone for play (like one those mobile reviewers)
pressefr said:
I think it is a significant downgrade. MediaTek was on the Xperia C5 Ultra, and there is a noticeable lag, but I'm a kind of person that leaves 40+ webpages open and forget to clear out my multi task applications. Supposedly the new MediaTek is smooth with no hickups, I just got my phone today, so we'll see. I came from using the Xperia Z Ultra, which was a SnapDragon beast, I followed Sony's phablet 6-inches lineups from the Z Ultra, T2 Ultra, C5 Ultra, now finally to the XA Ultra. I think the Z Series are strong performing phones. The X series is really for first-time Android buyers, but never had an iPhone. Really, I think it's suited for the Indian 3rd world market, because 16 GB of internal storage fills up so fast! Practically Sony is making throw away phones that will last only a year on the market. Because storage space is the largest issue with this internal storage debacle! No one can really maintain a slim-line storage. That takes an minimalist when there are so many apps to download, and all these alternative photo apps Snapchat and Instagram images go straight to internal and there's save-management to SD Card for these kinda 3rd party apps.
A 6-inch screen calls for stream apps! Yet those apps are huge in file size! I use more that 5 streaming apps... Because my cable app doesn't do it, and each broadcasting show has their own independent app, and you sign in with your cable subscription. It really kills me that I have so little storage to work with. Also the Netflix-s alike.
I am rooting for Sony like a cheerleader, but they need to get it together with the spec choices. A 16GB SD Card on the market now is about $10. To think the internal chip is less than that at wholesale. I keep asking myself, why am I buying a 10 dollar phone for $230? It should really be 128GB and cut the crap.
In conclusion if you're coming from a Z series, and thinking about it... The design is nice, if you want the whole 6-inch screen experience, you will sacrifice a lot and curve your storage by using external and cloud storage. Even then you will have problems moving files back and forth because of Google and SD Storage transfer file restrictions and can only do so when you plug your cellphone in your computer.
Honestly I would just wait for the next flagship phone coming from another Z series phone or the current Z5 series, and this can be a 2nd phone for play (like one those mobile reviewers)
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I highly recommend you go and try one if possible, I did and I didn't think twice about it once I'd had a go.
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
Ive had mine for 2 days now and i think it destroys the Z3 in every way aprt from the sound chip ie no built in noise cancellation for supporting headphones and sound quality via headphone jack isnt as good but thats a mute point for me as i now have bluetooth headphones. No waterproofing on the xa ultra either.
aidy.lucas said:
I highly recommend you go and try one if possible, I did and I didn't think twice about it once I'd had a go.
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
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WHAT HE SAID .. i have the xa ultra and love the size , no lags battery is not that great tho funny i also have a z5 premium and i like this one better why sony didn't put this same front camera own their flagship wtf
ajftl250 said:
WHAT HE SAID .. i have the xa ultra and love the size , no lags battery is not that great tho funny i also have a z5 premium and i like this one better why sony didn't put this same front camera own their flagship wtf
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Go to settings/location and tap the three dot menu, and then turn off scanning always available inc when screen is off for WiFi and Bluetooth. I've turned it off in settings WiFi advanced aswell. I've also enabled greenify's agressesive doze and doze on the go via adb so now doze kicks in in minutes instead of hours
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
Amazon has the XA Ultra for $298 now for the US. Compare that to their $600+ flagship, lol.
Does XA Ultra support quick charge?
id3alistic said:
Amazon has the XA Ultra for $298 now for the US. Compare that to their $600+ flagship, lol.
Does XA Ultra support quick charge?
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The xa range does I think, though my xa charges from empty to full in about a hour hour and half tops on the standard supplied Sony charger.
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
id3alistic said:
Amazon has the XA Ultra for $298 now for the US. Compare that to their $600+ flagship, lol.
Does XA Ultra support quick charge?
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no it does not
kennehh said:
no it does not
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The normal xa supports quick charging so I would imagine the xa ultra does too. Only supplied with a stock Sony charger though(in UK) it'll still charge from zero to full in about a hour though.
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
kennehh said:
no it does not
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I'm OK with @aidy.lucas pretty sure it does, but not with stock charger.
kennehh said:
no it does not
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The Sony website says that it does.
MikLSP said:
The Sony website says that it does.
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I stand corrected, its very strange how they would not include a quick charger in the box
JKWR said:
Ive had mine for 2 days now and i think it destroys the Z3 in every way aprt from the sound chip ie no built in noise cancellation for supporting headphones and sound quality via headphone jack isnt as good but thats a mute point for me as i now have bluetooth headphones. No waterproofing on the xa ultra either.
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If you are rooted you can try Viper4Android for having better sound, it have many settings :good:
Above all if there is one thing that has impressed me with this phone it's the display. It's just very nice to look at. It has very deep blacks which makes the display feel like an Amoled from time to time. The contrast is also very good because of the deep blacks. It's just very easy on the eyes and smooth to look at and has less of the "glowing" sensation that I think many LCD's has and mine has very good color uniformity also. I truly enjoy its display.
Say the http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/products/phones/xperia-z5-compact/?
I already ordered this the Xaomi 3 Pro and i'm super excited about the battery life now that i'm doing way more mobile games. Curious about the screen, the feel of the phone and just the price wow.
But i'm currently using the Z5 compact and i'm also somewhat satisfied with that. Espialli the pictures!
Is there anyone who knows both devices?
I mean i understand ill be trading in some high specs, but can anyone tell me by how much?
Servaas said:
Say the http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/products/phones/xperia-z5-compact/?
I already ordered this the Xaomi 3 Pro and i'm super excited about the battery life now that i'm doing way more mobile games. Curious about the screen, the feel of the phone and just the price wow.
But i'm currently using the Z5 compact and i'm also somewhat satisfied with that. Espialli the pictures!
Is there anyone who knows both devices?
I mean i understand ill be trading in some high specs, but can anyone tell me by how much?
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Totally different devices. Redmi 3 (any version) is budget device while Z5 (also compact) is premium model. Not comparable
miljenko said:
Totally different devices. Redmi 3 (any version) is budget device while Z5 (also compact) is premium model. Not comparable
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Well not really.. redmi 3 offers some high specs compared to his price... it's just the price.
blast1987 said:
Well not really.. redmi 3 offers some high specs compared to his price... it's just the price.
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I stand behind my answer. Redmi 3 is not bad device, but it is budget device in all aspects. Not comparable with Z line from Sony
Servaas said:
Say the http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/products/phones/xperia-z5-compact/?
I already ordered this the Xaomi 3 Pro and i'm super excited about the battery life now that i'm doing way more mobile games. Curious about the screen, the feel of the phone and just the price wow.
But i'm currently using the Z5 compact and i'm also somewhat satisfied with that. Espialli the pictures!
Is there anyone who knows both devices?
I mean i understand ill be trading in some high specs, but can anyone tell me by how much?
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Man, as others are saying R3 isn't comparable to Z5 Compact. R3 is budget friendly offering, while Z5 compact is high-end.
If you still wanna compare, let's see.
SoC - R3 Pro has SD616, while Z5 C has SD810. You know, 800 series of SD is high-end, while 600 is mid-end. Both are octa-cores, but Z5 has four A53 & four A57, while R3 Pro has all A53s. Also, clockspeed is low in R3 Pro.
RAM - R3 Pro has 3GB, but Z5 has 2GB. R3 won. Doesn't matter unless you do hard multi-tasking.
GPU - Adreno 430 in Z5, Adreno 405 in R3. Slightly better in case of Z5.
Camera - Z5 has a lot better camera. Although specs may seem same, but quality is better in Z5.
AtomR said:
Man, as others are saying R3 isn't comparable to Z5 Compact. R3 is budget friendly offering, while Z5 compact is high-end.
If you still wanna compare, let's see.
SoC - R3 Pro has SD616, while Z5 C has SD810. You know, 800 series of SD is high-end, while 600 is mid-end. Both are octa-cores, but Z5 has four A53 & four A57, while R3 Pro has all A53s. Also, clockspeed is low in R3 Pro.
RAM - R3 Pro has 3GB, but Z5 has 2GB. R3 won. Doesn't matter unless you do hard multi-tasking.
GPU - Adreno 430 in Z5, Adreno 405 in R3. Slightly better in case of Z5.
Camera - Z5 has a lot better camera. Although specs may seem same, but quality is better in Z5.
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Thank you for taking the time to respond! I realize that the Sony is better in almost every way, but what i'm honestly looking for is someone who has experienced both? The sony, owning it myself is not in my eyes a flagship, its above average. Sure it has a 820, but the most current fw is not the fastest it could be, this compared to my girlfriends Wileyswift Fox, a uk based phone maker, also a great value/cost device in my mind.
Camera, sure it takes great photos, but its sluggish in starting up, or taking rapid photos. And i'm not a big photo maker anyhow, occasional photo of my nieces or my dog or my girlfriend. So I don't really need THE GREATEST photos. You know?
So in that sense i'm very curious about this phone. If its comparable to the Fox one i'm going to be damn excited coupled with the 4100 battery. I am playing more games lately and i have been needing a powerbank. So thats would be a big up for me. How is the heat when it charges does anyone know?
Also curious about ROM support. From what i have read there appears to be some good support seeing as this is out longer then the 3S Pro. Only really read up on that device AFTER ordering the 3 Pro. Anyhow, couple of roms that I noticed were looking good.
About the GPU, how much is the Sony better? I maily do 2d games and have yet to find a 3d one that will make me comftorbale with touch input. I did also order a gamepad for phones, but that will be maily used for emulators and the like.
Thanks for all the input.
All say redmi is budget.
I'd be happy with the redmi over any other phone to be honest not even taking price into consideration.
As far as hardware for money it is OP
As far as android it self, it may not be perfect but it's damn near close.
Almost bought a galaxy edge, but now I don't have a reason too.
It looks like redmi 3s is waterproof too http://youtu.be/s1i9R8qoD9U
Sent from my ehmm... well... phone with xdw... cda... err... well I sent it, okay?
Servaas said:
Thank you for taking the time to respond! I realize that the Sony is better in almost every way, but what i'm honestly looking for is someone who has experienced both? The sony, owning it myself is not in my eyes a flagship, its above average. Sure it has a 820, but the most current fw is not the fastest it could be, this compared to my girlfriends Wileyswift Fox, a uk based phone maker, also a great value/cost device in my mind.
Camera, sure it takes great photos, but its sluggish in starting up, or taking rapid photos. And i'm not a big photo maker anyhow, occasional photo of my nieces or my dog or my girlfriend. So I don't really need THE GREATEST photos. You know?
So in that sense i'm very curious about this phone. If its comparable to the Fox one i'm going to be damn excited coupled with the 4100 battery. I am playing more games lately and i have been needing a powerbank. So thats would be a big up for me. How is the heat when it charges does anyone know?
Also curious about ROM support. From what i have read there appears to be some good support seeing as this is out longer then the 3S Pro. Only really read up on that device AFTER ordering the 3 Pro. Anyhow, couple of roms that I noticed were looking good.
About the GPU, how much is the Sony better? I maily do 2d games and have yet to find a 3d one that will make me comftorbale with touch input. I did also order a gamepad for phones, but that will be maily used for emulators and the like.
Thanks for all the input.
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About all the stuff you've written and asked, I would like to answer it in simple way -
You won't notice any much performance difference between the two phones. Forget SoC, forget RAM. If you need better camera go for Xperia Z5 P, if you need just a camera which takes grainy and noisy pictures indoors, go for Redmi 3 Pro. You can see, my only concern is camera. But wait, MIUI seems terrible to some users, some love it. While Xperia's UI is admired my many users, as it's closer to stock. Well, you're on XDA, so you might install a custom ROM. I hope, you got the idea. BTW, if I was you I would not spend 320$~ on Z5, as it really is overpriced. You can easily get Oneplus 3 or G4 Plus by adding more amount, if you don't care about big screen.
I've recently owned the z5c, z3c, lg g3, moto x play, z3 and now the redmi 3 pro. I prefer the redmi 3 pro. It's great value, performs well, has good mic and sound, amazing battery life, and runs very smooth. Not running marshmallow but it suits my needs. Runs everything perfectly. Provided it supports the band you need i don't think others are worth the excessive price. Z5c was not performing well, had poor battery life, and my call audio echoes. The only gripe with the r3p is the camera isn't the best.
My beloved Z Ultra died two weeks ago and I’m still inconsolable. So I looked at what Sony has to offer presently and the XA Ultra with its 6.0” screen seemed like the closest thing to it. Well, let’s just say the XA Ultra has done little to alleviate my pain and sorrow.
If any Z Ultra owner is considering the XA Ultra, I poster a review here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xa-ultra/how-to/xa-ultra-impressions-t3468894
Interesting review. It verifies what I suspected and essentially knew when the XA Ultra came out: It just can't replace a Z Ultra.
Anyone looking for a replacement should consider the Asus Zenfone 3 Ultra, Huawei/Honor Note 8, Lenovo Phab2 Pro or the Xiaomi Mi Max. They are proper 'Ultra replacements' and should be on the shortlist.
It won't ever give anymore a Sony Phone which can replace a Z Ultra fully
The Z Ultra idea came from Sony to do something very revolutionary, this wasn't 100% perfect executed by Sony on Z Ultra like the just 3000mAh battery or the bad cam so it became a flop
So it's understandable that Sony does do these Ultras for the special people but that's not their main target phone
Your PDesire
Interesting some people who haven't used an XA Ultra writing it off, having never tried it... XA Ultra is what it is, a midrange 6" phone, so will never compete with what the Z Ultra was at release. But for today, with the options available, if you want worldwide LTE, it's one of the best options and presents many improvements over the Z Ultra. The alternatives mentioned above are so far either not delivered or don't deliver usable LTE for large parts of the world.
I really wonder when 'LTE' became the most important aspect of a device, more important than anything else such as hardware etc?
It sounds like 'LTE' is so important that it makes up for a MediaTek Helio P10 with Snapdragon 800 level performance and hardware that isn't a too much of an 'upgrade' from the Ultra, beside the camera.
The XA Ultra is very easy to dismiss just by looking at what it offers:
1. Smaller display size than the Ultra (itself a dealbreaker).
2. Similar CPU performance (i.e. no step forward since 2013...).
3. MediaTek (forget about ROMs and the Open Devices program).
4. Lower build quality than the Ultra.
5. Low storage and RAM for a 2016 device.
6. Price is similar to more powerful devices from other brands.
Pluses would be 'official Marshmallow' (I don't consider that too much of a benefit in a world of ROMs) and far better camera than the Ultra. The rest? So-so.
A device such as the Xiaomi Mi Max or Huawei/Honor Note 8 or Asus Zenfone 3 Ultra and the Lenovo Phab2 Pro offer substantial improvements on all areas in comparison with the Ultra and is the natural choice for anyone looking for a replacement.
Getting the XA Ultra over any of those, using the 'LTE argument' is downright silly actually. Even if another device would only get EDGE data I would take it over the XA Ultra as long as the rest is top-notch and then solve the connectivity in a different way.
I just can't see how LTE can 'compensate' the MediaTek Helio P10, smaller screen, lesser build quality, low amount of storage and RAM etc and the pricetag.... If LTE is that critical I rather buy the Xperia XZ. Far more powerful than the XA Ultra and the screen size doesn't matter, it is a downgrade anyway. I would also rather pick up the Z3TC SGP621 over the XA Ultra.
E90 Commie said:
I really wonder when 'LTE' became the most important aspect of a device, more important than anything else such as hardware etc?
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Yet again, you assume that just because a feature is less important to you, it's less important to everyone else. Fast data is the most important feature of a phone to me. I also want a big screen. Would prefer 6.4, and would prefer latest Snapdragon, but of course those things aren't all available right now on one phone.
It's patently clear you haven't used the phone if you don't think the hardware is an upgrade, perhaps you should try one out first? Note that camera isn't the only clear upgrade for XA over Z.
I also love the fact that your "Getting the XA Ultra over any of those" argument includes two phones that aren't available yet.
I have fast HSPA+ here and haven't noticed any problems with HD streaming (YouTube etc) due to any particular 'slowness' of the connection. I typically reach around 15-16 Mbit/s HSPA+ and that is also why I can accept some 'compromise' on the LTE side of things in exchange for a better device.
The optimum device has 20-40 LTE bands, obviously (it would be the best solution since it would cover everything) but the reality is different. Just skipping devices due to LTE bands when no other options are available (I don't consider 'keep using the Ultra' as the best option anymore).
I fully agree that the best solution is a lot of LTE bands, Snapdragon 8xx and a 6.44-7" display with a lot of RAM and storage. As it is now, those things aren't available (yet) and compromises has to be made.
My key priorities are certainly powerful hardware, 6.44-7" display and excellent battery life (8-13 hours SOT as an upgrade from the Ultra 5-6 hours SOT). The XA Ultra is just not even close to be an interesting 'upgrade' and this Amazon link says it all:
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Xperia-...id=1466713400&sr=8-6&keywords=xperia+xa+ultra
For $329 I can buy the XA Ultra with 3GB RAM (same as the Z3TC in 2014), 16GB storage (same as the Ultra in 2013), 2700 mAh battery (smaller than the 3000 mAh in the Ultra) and a MediaTek Helio P10 offering similar performance as the Snapdragon 800. Yes, the XA Ultra has seriously improved cameras and it can also be argued that it has Marshmallow out of the box (an improvement over 5.1.1 in the Ultra).
It doesn't participate in the Open Devices Program, though (thanks, MediaTek) and even if its stock ROM is 'faster' than the Ultra 5.1.1 - the Ultra has no problem keeping up using something like PAC, Sony Concept ROM or one of the MM or Nougat builds. So buying the XA Ultra because the stock ROM is 'faster' isn't a too good idea.
For approximately $330-344 I can buy a Xiaomi Mi Max offering substantial upgrades in comparison with the XA Ultra and the Ultra:
4GB RAM (3GB in the XA Ultra, 2GB Ultra), 128GB storage (16GB XA Ultra and Ultra), Snapdragon 652 (80K AnTuTu in comparison with the 40-45K of the XA Ultra and Ultra), same display size as the XZU and 0.44" bigger than the XA Ultra and so forth. Its battery is 4850 mAh compared to 2700 (XA Ultra) and 3000 (Ultra).
The only thing the XA Ultra has to offer is.... LTE and a camera that seems to be good. 'It runs Marshmallow' or 'the Sony ROM has a lot of improvements over Ultra 5.1.1' doesn't sound like compelling reasons to buy it.
Buying the XA Ultra as an 'upgrade' from the Ultra, citing 'LTE frequencies' as a reason why it becomes 'better' than a device with way more powerful hardware isn't a particularly good idea.
I just don't see how the XA Ultra can be something worth buying when comparing with the competitors. If we accept downgrading the display size, then a lot of options are available around the price point of $330 and they are way more powerful (a Snapdragon 820 can be fitted if the budget is stretched a couple of tens).
Making a statement such as 'the XA Ultra beats the Asus Zenfone 3 Ultra, Huawei/Honor Note 8, Lenovo Phab2 Pro and Xiaomi Mi Max because it has LTE bands x, y and z' sounds really... backwards. It is like arguing that 'this computer with Intel Celeron and Intel HD4000 beats this powerful gaming rig because it is connected to a 100 Mbit/s broadband line while the gaming rig has a 10 Mbit/s line....
I always compare with competitors and I am just unable to see any reason to buy the XA Ultra in comparison with the other options. Buying it because.... it is a Sony Xperia and it has LTE frequency x, y and z just doesn't feel particularly logical.
If Sony give as a proper XZU successor (Snapdragon 821 or faster, 4-8GB RAM, 64-128GB storage, 4500-500 mAh battery, 2K 6.44" display, XZ camera, microSD or UFS card slot and so on I will be all over it. But getting the XA Ultra 'instead' because of LTE and 'it is what Sony offers' rather than switching brands (until Sony get their acts together) isn't logical either, I am afraid.
Hell, how many words do you need to say you don't really like that phone (the one that you've never used)? A full page of mostly nonsense, basically: happy to step back 5 years on data speeds, not happy to lose 0.4" of screen; but if you are losing 0.4", you may as well lose 1.2". Laughable. I hope you're happy with your cheap phone, it works for you and the trade-offs you're happy to make, but there's no need for lengthy tedious diatribes on why everyone else is wrong.
Making a statement such as 'the XA Ultra beats the Asus Zenfone 3 Ultra, Huawei/Honor Note 8, Lenovo Phab2 Pro and Xiaomi Mi Max because it has LTE bands x, y and z'
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No-one apart from you has spouted this idiocy. We all have preferences.
Edit: and no-one knows what would beat the Asus or Lenovo, because so far they are imaginary.
Buying the XA Ultra as an 'upgrade' from the Ultra, citing 'LTE frequencies' as a reason why it becomes 'better' than a device with way more powerful hardware
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You want to tell me where the Z Ultra has "way more powerful hardware?" Again, as a non-user of the XA Ultra? It has a slightly bigger screen and a slightly bigger battery. Way more powerful?
The Xiaomi Mi Max is a serious upgrade from the Ultra - especially the 4/128 version. It is simply a better choice than the XA Ultra for those looking for a replacement.
Double the amount of RAM (in comparison with the Ultra).
Decent CPU upgrade (from 40-46K AnTuTu to 80K AnTuTu).
Same display size (wider brightness range).
Way more storage (128GB instead of 16GB).
Excellent battery life (12-13 hours SOT in comparison with 5-6 hours SOT).
So in what way is the XA Ultra a 'better' upgrade path for an Ultra owner than the Mi Max and the other options?
Asus has started deliveries of the Zenfone 3 Ultra and it is another interesting upgrade.
The XA Ultra is simply a disappointing device from Sony and they could do way better. Making a 'XZ Ultra' - i.e. a 6" version of the XZ would be a way better approach.
It is also interesting with attempts to defend the XA Ultra, especially in comparison with a device such as the Mi Max considering the MediaTek CPU and everything. There are absolutely nothing 'premium' about it and trying to use arguments such as 'enjoy your cheap phone' when defending the XA Ultra doesn't sound particularly right.
Edit: The statement of 'way more powerful hardware' referred to the Mi Max and the other new phablets.
I would like to ask you this simple question:
In what ways are the Mi Max (and the other options) NOT a good upgrade from the XZU - while the XA Ultra is?
My Mi Max is doing everything my Ultra does, it has all strong points of the XZU and it improves on the weak ones (RAM, storage, camera, adds fingerprint scanner and provide a decent CPU speed boost). What 'trade-offs' do you see with the Mi Max?
Yep, sure, those phones are way better for running Antutu, knock yourself out with that. What you can't seem to get through your head (I suspect you never will), is that this is a phone and mobile data device. The fact that it gets better scores doesn't matter at all. The fact that it doesn't have decent data speeds does. To me. Yeah, you're impressed by different brands of chips and scores, enjoy. I won't hamstring myself with crap data on a mobile device. That's why it's better. For me and others.
You appear unable to grasp that not everyone wants the same thing from their phone that you do. It's like conversing with an infant.
Asus has started deliveries of the Zenfone 3 Ultra
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Where? Not the US or the UK. I've only had one Asus phone, it was awful and only lasted a few months, but maybe they've improved.
A phablet should fulfill the following requirements in order to be a worthwhile upgrade from the XZU:
1. Faster CPU/GPU
2. Increased RAM (4GB or more)
3. Increased storage (32GB or more)
4. Similar screen size (or slightly bigger - up to 7")
5. Run a newer Android version out of the box (6.x, 7.x)
6. Decent developer support and ROMs such as AICP, RR or the Sony Concept ROM etc.
7. Adequate cellular connectivity (HSPA+ minimum, LTE good to have)
8. Improved battery life (8 hours or more SOT, heavy use)
9. MicroSD or UFS for expandable storage
10. Adequate camera (i.e. better than the XZU pretty atrocious unit)
I.e: An 'Ultra II' simply put - offering the same basic properties as the XZU while improving the weaknesses (especially RAM and storage).
The Asus Zenfone 3 Ultra, Huawei/Honor Note 8, Lenovo Phab2 Pro and Xiaomi Mi Max fulfill those requirements - albeit with some question marks surrounding ROM development for the Kirin (Huawei).
All four are decent upgrades from the XZU, offering the same basic properties, while improving on the weaknesses.
I have never experienced a 'speed problem' with my C6802 - it typically provide stable 15-16 Mbit/s download speeds and even if my C6833 is faster I have no problem with downloading files, doing HD streaming etc on such a speed. When I use data plans with 2GB caps, speed doesn't exactly matter for the simple reason that you don't do heavy use on such a limited plan anyway. When I have my unlimited data SIM in, getting a stable 15-16 Mbit/s over HSPA+ is.... good enough even for HD streaming.
Having a fast CPU, more RAM, more storage and so on brings tangible benefits and especially the storage part was an issue on the Ultra. Hardware when paired with a decent ROM is simply the key aspects of a device - LTE just can't make up for 16GB of storage or a MediaTek Helio P10.
I buy devices as 'mobile computers' and prioritize hardware and software (the latter is a matter of custom ROMs, I just don't care for stock ROMs). The XZU is an excellent mobile computer and the Xiaomi Mi Max is even better because it keeps all strengths of the Ultra down to the RR ROM and pairs them with improvement of the weaknesses.
The XA Ultra has some extra LTE bands, yes - but is a weak performer in all other areas, especially storage and CPU. And those two areas matters - not because of AnTuTu but because of more demanding apps and games coming out. It is reasonable to expect serious improvements in performance on a device three years newer than the one being replaced.
Even better would be Snapdragon 820, 821 or the upcoming '830'. Less than a 650? Not good enough simply put. Same with the storage - 16GB has been small on the XZU, buying a new device with the same internal storage makes no sense - my storage problem would continue. Using the microSD as a 'solution' (i.e. moving appdata) isn't optimum in 2016 when there are several devices with 32-256GB internal PLUS microSD.
The Xiaomi Mi Max is simply an excellent Ultra replacement.
I give up. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it think.
I just wanted to say that unfortunately my screen broke and it became unresponsive to touch so I was contemplating on other phones but I couldn't find a z ultra replacement I thought of the Asus Zen 3 ultra but it is too extensive so I bought me another z ultra to replace my broken z ultra there's no other like it
rickgillyon said:
I give up. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it think.
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It's not necessary to think too much in order to realize this simple fact: XA Ultra isn't a proper XZU replacement compared to other alternatives including the XZU itself.
You would need to develop that capability first.
jaime4272 said:
I just wanted to say that unfortunately my screen broke and it became unresponsive to touch so I was contemplating on other phones but I couldn't find a z ultra replacement I thought of the Asus Zen 3 ultra but it is too extensive so I bought me another z ultra to replace my broken z ultra there's no other like it
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The XZU is still a beast so great choice. It seems like Asus is starting to drop prices for the Zenfone 3 Ultra in comparison with some of the sky high ones listed before ($699).
Let's hope there will be a 8xx based 6.44-7" phablet next year - preferably sharing hardware with a flagship as well (lower development cost).
---------- Post added at 06:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:06 PM ----------
rickgillyon said:
You would need to develop that capability first.
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Perhaps you could describe the thought process leading up to the conclusion that the XA Ultra is a 'better' XZU replacement than other options... I still see a 16GB MediaTek device there.
Edit: Or is the XA Ultra a better device because of:
1. It's a Sony
2. It has LTE 800/900 etc
3. It runs Sony stock Marshmallow
4. The camera is better than [insert device]
It is a bit hard to claim that the XA Ultra has great hardware or performance paired with excellent storage - thus making it a great upgrade path for XZU owners....
Well I did think hard on that asus zen 3 ultra, but the quality, brand and looks of the z ultra it's what brought me back to it. I know that's it's getting old on it's hardware but still capable for the most task at hand besides that price it's also affordable compare to the zen 3 ultra, may be some day there will be a xperia z ultra replacement. I was hopping on the xa ultra but what a dissepiment from Sony their loss my z ultra.
I've hung around for ages waiting for a decent z ultra from Sony,but it seems unlikely now that it will ever happen.So I took a deep breath and looked at the competition,and it seemed to come down to the mi max or the honour note 8.Went with the honour note 8 mainly because of the better specs and also the superior screen.Was pondering waiting for the lenovo phab pro,but I'm glad I went for the note 8,the Kenobi looks a bit chunky width wise.Aesthetically the old Sony wins out.And I lose waterproofing/NFC and 4g on my particular network 02,apart from that,the note 8 really is a huge upgrade on the Sony.Camera,2k amoled screen,ram,storage,fast charging etc etc.So far-so happy!
Sent from my EDI-AL10 using XDA-Developers mobile app
jaime4272 said:
I just wanted to say that unfortunately my screen broke and it became unresponsive to touch so I was contemplating on other phones but I couldn't find a z ultra replacement I thought of the Asus Zen 3 ultra but it is too extensive so I bought me another z ultra to replace my broken z ultra there's no other like it
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I have a 6806 and a 6833, both with broken displays. I decided to buy a display assemly which cost 45€ and another 45€ to have it fitted. With less than 100€ I now have the c6806 working again which I will use in the americas for the LTE bands used on that side of the world. I was sad to see handset like the ZU setting in a box not working. I do love this phone and I'm very happy to have invested on a new dispaly . You certainly are not going to get a phone for less than 100€ with those specs...:good:
The Zenfone 3 Ultra would be a worthy replacement for the Sony XZU. Looking at the xda forum for it, but there's currently no bootloader unlock, and not even root. The honor note 8 has root and bootloader unlock, but you do need to put some effort in to tweak and tune it to make it work well.
The Xiaomi mi max has a fairly active hacking community, so I think that's the best choice to replace our much loved Sony
I didn't mention the Lenovo, because supplies dried up and was only on sale in USA.
Hi, might be time to change my old x compact, i wonder whats the best one-hand phone to go for now in price range 200-300eur? can be used, i dont like big phones, c compact is perfect size <3
Well there is xz1 compact as you may already know which is much better in specs, android 9
but is also old, probably wont get any further android upgrades and has only 32gb of internal memory, still as im a heavy user and very happy with my Xc, I can say that xz1 with sd835 would be a beast even for the next couple of years...
then there is galaxy s8, which is also very good for one handed use, almost the same as xz1c in terms of specs, but with the addition of an AMOLED display and 64gb of internal memory
just keep in mind that 3D performance of xz1c is much much better than s8 or any other phone because of its 720p screen
if you can go for other brands, Xiaomi also has some good phones with good prices.
Kianush said:
Well there is xz1 compact as you may already know which is much better in specs, android 9
but is also old, probably wont get any further android upgrades and has only 32gb of internal memory, still as im a heavy user and very happy with my Xc, I can say that xz1 with sd835 would be a beast even for the next couple of years...
then there is galaxy s8, which is also very good for one handed use, almost the same as xz1c in terms of specs, but with the addition of an AMOLED display and 64gb of internal memory
just keep in mind that 3D performance of xz1c is much much better than s8 or any other phone because of its 720p screen
if you can go for other brands, Xiaomi also has some good phones with good prices.
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i dont do games on phones, ill check out xz1c definitely, mostly i love smooth interface, thanks! oh and i know xiaomi but there's all phones kinda big ://