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Am I the Only person who got a Perfect Amaze with No defects?
I LOVE THIS FREAKIN" PHONE
Only thing, that pink TMO Goodbye animation on power down , its got to go, they could have made it blue, yeah, yeah I know - TMO likes pink, easy fix when Rooted & S-OFF
Come on people, some of the comments are something else, guess your previous phone was absolutely Perfect from first boot, there was not need to root or personalize them in anyway.
I went from a G2x to the Amaze. G2x was awesome, rooted with CM7 and it was exactly what I wanted in a phone, except for the fact that the camera in the G2x was awful and even with a custom rom, it would still lock up.
As soon as I root my Amaze and uninstall sense and the other bloatware preinstalled (seriously 31 apps preinstalled I have 0 use for) this device will be near 100% perfect for me.
My only fear is that the camera app is tied into sense and freezing that will mess that up, but we'll just have to see, unless someone who's already done it can attest.
Yes, I am really enjoying this phone. There's so many things I like about it. Especially those two little camera buttons. I have the white model and its absolutely gorgeous. I honestly have no reason to root right now. If you were to install a custom Rom you would lose a lot of features. The camera would have a lot less function without the built in Sense features.
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
I am with you on that - this baby is something else, just needs a little de-bloat, though I cannot see any lag at all even with all the default SF
Only thing I have planned after root is some of my favorite apps for rooted phones
I did eventually get my MT4G running like a dream, the Amaze is like my MT4G on a double dose of Roids - right out the box
Perfect size phone & screen, I dislike Tablets, the Amaze is a great tweener.
Sent from My Virtuous MT4G - While conditioning Amaze battery - see if that battery memory thing does work
Are you confirming that the features for the camera are tied to sense or are you sepculating?
I have no intentions of going for a custom rom at this point, I just want to freeze sense and a bunch of other bloat. I was able to lag the phone significantly by installing launcher pro, but I think it was fighting sense the whole time.
CalicoJeb said:
Am I the Only person who got a Perfect Amaze with No defects?
I LOVE THIS FREAKIN" PHONE
Only thing, that pink TMO Goodbye animation on power down , its got to go, they could have made it blue, yeah, yeah I know - TMO likes pink, easy fix when Rooted & S-OFF
Come on people, some of the comments are something else, guess your previous phone was absolutely Perfect from first boot, there was not need to root or personalize them in anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your microSD Card slot work? Mines seem faulty =(
Spovik said:
Are you confirming that the features for the camera are tied to sense or are you sepculating?
I have no intentions of going for a custom rom at this point, I just want to freeze sense and a bunch of other bloat. I was able to lag the phone significantly by installing launcher pro, but I think it was fighting sense the whole time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just go into the camera app and see for yourself. All the different modes and the picture editing features are all features of Sense. Install a custom rom and you lose all of that.
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
tonyfate said:
Does your microSD Card slot work? Mines seem faulty =(
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My card slot works fine, I installed a 8GB card I have just to get going, formatted using the phone and all is well.
Make sure its not the mem card itself, I have had a couple bad ones here and there
CalicoJeb said:
My card slot works fine, I installed a 8GB card I have just to get going, formatted using the phone and all is well.
Make sure its not the mem card itself, I have had a couple bad ones here and there
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried 3 different ones I have from my G2 and Nexus 1, on those phones, it works fine, on the Amaze, it gives me these errors:
Damaged SD Card
Removed SD card
It won't let me mount or format them through the phone. I formatted them through the computer fine but the phone won't read them. Brought it to the T-Mobile store they said they'll replace the phone.. so hopefully it's just my unit..
tonyfate said:
I tried 3 different ones I have from my G2 and Nexus 1, on those phones, it works fine, on the Amaze, it gives me these errors:
Damaged SD Card
Removed SD card
It won't let me mount or format them through the phone. I formatted them through the computer fine but the phone won't read them. Brought it to the T-Mobile store they said they'll replace the phone.. so hopefully it's just my unit..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well the card I used was never used in a previous phone, was in a camera, doubt if that would be any issue at all, should not be one - post an update when you get the replacement
Arcadia310 said:
Just go into the camera app and see for yourself. All the different modes and the picture editing features are all features of Sense. Install a custom rom and you lose all of that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm familair with them and have used some of them, I just didn't know if they were linked to the actual SENSE app, or if it was built into it's own camera apk.
If they are linked, then I can live without them, but it would be nice to keep if I could. I'll just have to check for msyefl.
I'm happy so far but I may have a concern with the camera while using flash. On most pics I take with the flash, there is haze or a halo effect on the photo. It looks like a fog that is thinner at the center and thickens out near the edge. It seems to be worse when the subject is at close range, and it seems to vary in amount from pic to pic. Photos without the flash are fine.
I see nothing on the lens and there isn't anything around the lens/ led flash area. I'm going to stop into T-Mobile and check the demo unit for the same effect.
Otherwise happy. I really want to root for Titanium Backup though.
CalicoJeb said:
Well the card I used was never used in a previous phone, was in a camera, doubt if that would be any issue at all, should not be one - post an update when you get the replacement
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow! My second Amaze!!! Gotta return it again! First one was the SD card issue, the second one fixed it! Second one... the soft buttons has two spots where the screen would shine through? Like they didn't coat the screen right... So annoying..
tonyfate said:
the soft buttons has two spots where the screen would shine through? Like they didn't coat the screen right... So annoying..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
man i have this same problem,
i love the phone but im waiting out for about another week before returning it that way if i get a few scratches, i'll just get a replacement anyways
but this issue is deff. making me aggravated >:O
Finally activated my new simm (lazy, had been using mt4g old simm) and noticed faster speeds.
Consistent 10mb - 14+mb download & 1.5mb - 2.5+mb upload .......sweet
Sent from my Wickedly Fast HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
These T-Mo apps how much space do they really take up? Is it worth all the trouble with "unlocking bootloader" and rooting the phone for a noob like me?
I´m coming from a Desire wich has minimal internal memory to this Amaze with 16Gb (I know i´s not that much irl).
It´s just that I am so annoyed with all these apps I cant even use.
yes this phone is amazing, the onlly thing i dont like about sense is that my wallpapers dont move like all my other phones did, so i cant use all my old wallpapers. Other than that this phone is exactly what i expected it to be
Arcadia310 said:
Just go into the camera app and see for yourself. All the different modes and the picture editing features are all features of Sense. Install a custom rom and you lose all of that.
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Umm... May want to rephrase that... I use a custom rom that still uses sense as well and has all the camera features so... Custom rom does not equal loss of camera features or sense for that matter... Also I am pretty sure one could have a stripped sense rom and still maintain camera functionality...
Sent from my HTC Amaze 4G using XDA App
I too live it. Probably my favorite. Had g1, mt4g, thunderbolt on Verizon, LG g2x and this. It is really nice and no problems that I notice.
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
I really loved my sensation and the amaze is what my sensation never was a phone without flaws. People complain bout the lights bleeding into the screen but I don't have that issue I like my screen looks great. The device feels awesome in my hand and the heft is perfect. The camera is best I ever had front and back. Most people will complain about sense but I like it until ics I dislike stock android its missing some Polish and ease with its features like dialer, contacts, camera, music player etc... Hate that I'm giving up my amaze and selling it hoping the galaxy s 2 is ok but hoping to pick up an amaze later again this really is a great device wish more devs picked it up to see its value and HTC was more friendly to our devs. Thank god for x!
Edit: what I absolutely hate about my amaze!! The fact that it looks and feels so good bare that I never want to use my case but have to so that it can stay looking so good.
Sent from my HTC Sensation Z710e using XDA App
I saw the sprint g3 @ $100 renewing contract and it got me tempted.
But i'm not 100% sure, i have a nexus 5 since release day, and i love it. Great screen, smooth experienced, a lot of develoment, but theres some not so great stuff like camera and battery, there good but not great.
I instantly fall in love with the look of g3, small bezels, back buttons, but reading around about lag, no so great development. its is worth it?
2fastkuztoms said:
I saw the sprint g3 @ $100 renewing contract and it got me tempted.
But i'm not 100% sure, i have a nexus 5 since release day, and i love it. Great screen, smooth experienced, a lot of develoment, but theres some not so great stuff like camera and battery, there good but not great.
I instantly fall in love with the look of g3, small bezels, back buttons, but reading around about lag, no so great development. its is worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got mine Friday for $50 from amazon. If you get a one make sure to take advantage of the free battery promo from lg.
2fastkuztoms said:
I saw the sprint g3 @ $100 renewing contract and it got me tempted.
But i'm not 100% sure, i have a nexus 5 since release day, and i love it. Great screen, smooth experienced, a lot of develoment, but theres some not so great stuff like camera and battery, there good but not great.
I instantly fall in love with the look of g3, small bezels, back buttons, but reading around about lag, no so great development. its is worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been an amazing phone so far. I haven't experienced any lag at all! Once the bootloader is unlocked, I guarantee development will be going strong!
I'm very stoked on mine. Bootloader unlock will make this phone super fly but it's already awesome. I had the htc m8 and custom roms and all but I don't miss it even a bit.
To return to Android from an iPhone 5 to this phone really makes me thing why did I change. This phone is the best out there right now. I can usually go 36 hours without charging, and I use my phone a ton. So yes it is worth it. The Ultra HD is pretty bad ass too.
I wouldn't say the phone is perfect, but compared to the Galaxy S5 and the HTC One M8, I'd say it's right there. It's a matter of what's important to you. Obviously if you want forward facing speaking, this phone can't do that. But if you want an amazing screen, a bit more size and a very smooth/solid experience. This phone is great.
gorillaz1 said:
I wouldn't say the phone is perfect, but compared to the Galaxy S5 and the HTC One M8, I'd say it's right there. It's a matter of what's important to you. Obviously if you want forward facing speaking, this phone can't do that. But if you want an amazing screen, a bit more size and a very smooth/solid experience. This phone is great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks all, it got me tempted to buy it, i was thinking on the note 4, but probably would be $300-350 and I don't like touchwiz and all the bloat plus knox.
I would buy nexus 6 unlock (hopefully it comes to sprint again) and the lg g3 looks like a nice toy to play around in the mean time.
2fastkuztoms said:
Thanks all, it got me tempted to buy it, i was thinking on the note 4, but probably would be $300-350 and I don't like touchwiz and all the bloat plus knox.
I would buy nexus 6 unlock (hopefully it comes to sprint again) and the lg g3 looks like a nice toy to play around in the mean time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean, the big thing is...we don't have an Unlock yet and can't do custom ROMs. But this phone is definitely better stock than Samsung phones.
The Note 4 does look pretty good though, if it's quick to be unlocked/rooted/such it might be really nice since you can uninstall the bloat.
gorillaz1 said:
I mean, the big thing is...we don't have an Unlock yet and can't do custom ROMs. But this phone is definitely better stock than Samsung phones.
The Note 4 does look pretty good though, if it's quick to be unlocked/rooted/such it might be really nice since you can uninstall the bloat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you can uninstall bloat with root; don't need a bootloader for that (although it would be safer) unless you're just saying that the problem with TW vs LG is the bloat on TW is worse.
dakoellis said:
Well you can uninstall bloat with root; don't need a bootloader for that (although it would be safer) unless you're just saying that the problem with TW vs LG is the bloat on TW is worse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah mostly meant TW bloat is a lot worse. Also I'm a little finicky about uninstalling bloat with just root, I know some people are doing that and using Xposed and what not. I'm just cautious.
gorillaz1 said:
Yeah mostly meant TW bloat is a lot worse. Also I'm a little finicky about uninstalling bloat with just root, I know some people are doing that and using Xposed and what not. I'm just cautious.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm with ya on removing bloat and all that other stuff. Only thing I want is to root and activate the built in hotspot. On the S5 it was very simple and works great. Still researching it on the G3 Sprint.
Well I tried to buy it from Amazon, but Sprint restricted them, and they cant ship it to Puerto Rico, I sent my wife to Radio Shack (they always gave me better price than sprint retails or corporate) where they listed at $99, and they told my wife its a 16gb model. Does sprint 16gb/2gb really exist? I though they only have the 32gb model.
I was considering this phone, but if sprint is going to make this difficult, hello t-mobile.
I went monday to radio shack, they guy told they didn't have the lg g3 (this guys doesn't even know what they sell?. I told him to look in the computer, and he found it, 32gb titanuim @ $99.
Its a beast phone, I didn't remember all the bloat those non google phone have. I rooted, disabled some crappy app, nova launcher, ART and everething looks great so far.
Glad to hear you got the g3.
I'd back of from it til the boot loader is unlocked
Sent from my LGLS990 using XDA Premium HD app
I have my nexus 5 and waiting for the 6, so this one with locked bootloader don't bother too much, at least its rooted to block ads. I prefer paying for a good apps without ads than a free one with ads, also hate browsing on the webs with ads everywhere. Only i would miss is a clean rom if the bootlocker doesnt get unlocked.
Does the Stump Root work to at least root the G3?
allaidback said:
Does the Stump Root work to at least root the G3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it worked on mine at first try, took like 3-5 minutes of brute force.
allaidback said:
Does the Stump Root work to at least root the G3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easiest root ever. Could not believe it. Now if only we could get a recovery and some real development for this phone.
FYI, it has been absolutely great and I don't know why it doesn't get more attention. Very happy I bought it and saved enough money over a Note 4 that I'm going to buy a smartwatch.
I'm thinking about picking up a z ultra considering the immense price drop. I can get a brand new one unlocked on amazon for 315 dollars. Since it's getting the lollipop update I'm not hesitant at all. But I'd still like to ask some questions.
Now one how much does the no flash on the camera actually affect you? I don't use flash that much but there are times when I need it. Is the camera at least decent and if you've tried other phones is there one you can compare it to? I have a g2 right now and it takes pretty good pictures but I need to replace it since screen broke and I take lots of pictures especially of my little brother though they just need to be decent not super amazing.
2) I love big screens so the size won't bother me and the slim design is awesome. But what kind of reaction do you guys get from other people? Lots of slack about it for looking ridiculously big or is it alright?
3) is it better to get gpe or xperia edition? I love stock android but xperia version has some nice features. I also noticed that gpe can't really run stock xperia software while the xperia one can easily run a custom ROM to get that Google look. Now that leads to my biggest question
4) how easy is it to install Roms and kernels and how's the development for it? I had a xperia play before and it wasn't too difficult but with that phone the ROM and kernel had to be flashed separately and the recovery was built into kernel since there was no recovery partition so it was kind of annoying. Is this better in that aspect? Also how stable are the Roms? On my g2 they're alright but still not completely ironed out.
5) (last thing) is it possible to get the camera features of the z2 and z3 on here like slow motion video and ar effects? My brother has a z2 and those are some neat features though I didn't see them in any reviews on the z ultra so I'm guessing it doesn't have them.
I'm looking the look of this phone a lot especially at its price tag. But if it's really not worth it then I may just wait a couple more months and get the z3.
(I was going to get the nexus 6 but the more I think about it the more I feel it's price isn't really justified for what I'd use it for. I just wouldn't have really needed all that it offered since really this phone is just as capable and half the price.)
Sent from my LG-VS980
Oh yeah and if anyone can respond as soon as possible please do because I'm currently bidding for a couple on eBay that end tomorrow as well so I'd like to know if I should continue or not since lots of the bids on there brand new are ending at around 285 I can save another 30 dollars. Thanks
Sent from my LG-VS980
OK sorry for all the questions but I have one more lol. Does unlocking the boot loader mess anything up? Like the z3 unlock makes the low light camera pics not too great. Is there anything like that with the z ultra?
Sent from my LG-VS980
1. If you use the camera a lot you my find it a bit limiting, but learn how to use a good camera app and set the ido low and it takes ok to good photos. Have a look at the two photo threads.
2. A year ago it was like wow... now its more normal. I've had a couple of people lately say something like 'wow that's a nice big screen, is that the 6+'
3. Go with the Sony one, then you can flash the GPe rom to it.
4. Unlock is easy (root first and back up TA), then install custom rom. The first rom you will probably have to flash either recovery or kernel with recovery (yes they are still baked together). Mostly stable, although carbon is having issues at tje moment
5. I think some of the camera functions have been backported, but the zu does have a different processor so I think superslow doesn't work etc
blueether said:
1. If you use the camera a lot you my find it a bit limiting, but learn how to use a good camera app and set the ido low and it takes ok to good photos. Have a look at the two photo threads.
2. A year ago it was like wow... now its more normal. I've had a couple of people lately say something like 'wow that's a nice big screen, is that the 6+'
3. Go with the Sony one, then you can flash the GPe rom to it.
4. Unlock is easy (root first and back up TA), then install custom rom. The first rom you will probably have to flash either recovery or kernel with recovery (yes they are still baked together). Mostly stable, although carbon is having issues at tje moment
5. I think some of the camera functions have been backported, but the zu does have a different processor so I think superslow doesn't work etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response. I do use the camera a good amount but I've aosp had the nexus 5 with an 8 mp camera and it was good enough for me so hopefully this will be too. Only thing was nexus 5 had ois so not sure how that will affect it.
And when you said root first and backup TA what is TA stand for? Thanks again
Sent from my LG-VS980
the device is awesome, except to take pics
you can use almos anything to play with screen, there are apps that recognize that objects as an stylus pen
buy the normal Z Ultra - you can install GPE ROM on it if you want - the opposite is more difficulto or even impossible, I'm not sure
abdel12345 said:
Thanks for the response. I do use the camera a good amount but I've aosp had the nexus 5 with an 8 mp camera and it was good enough for me so hopefully this will be too. Only thing was nexus 5 had ois so not sure how that will affect it.
And when you said root first and backup TA what is TA stand for? Thanks again
Sent from my LG-VS980
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have a read of the stickies if you do buy a ZU, every thing is in there but TA is Trim Area partition. This contains DRM keys (and lots of other things), the DRM keys [and other bits?] are wiped when the bootloader is unlocked. The TA partition can only be backed up with root
blueether said:
Have a read of the stickies if you do buy a ZU, every thing is in there but TA is Trim Area partition. This contains DRM keys (and lots of other things), the DRM keys [and other bits?] are wiped when the bootloader is unlocked. The TA partition can only be backed up with root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK I'll make sure to read through those threads first before doing anything else. And I think I'm decided on getting one. It's still a great phone and that price is just awesome. I can't see it getting much cheaper anytime soon so I'll just get it now. If a new version comes out I'll still be able to get it considering I'll only be spending half as much as I'd spend on another phone.
Now last quick question is I've been seeing some stuff about this being fragile and cracking easily. Is that true? I'll probably put a case on it anyways but just wondering. Because the z1 drop test didn't even get scratched or cracked and this has a similar build so I was surprised to hear that
And I just read through the root thread and it says .681 firmware doesn't need to backup TA? I'll still backup just in case but does that mean it won't lose the DRM keys when unlocking on that firmware version
If you buy a new Ultra, it will have .108 preinstalled, which is easy to root with Easy Root Tool. Then take the TA backup and go ahead with flash of a new ROM and kernel.
It is much easier to root the C6833 today than it was one year ago (root required unlocked bootloader and this was before TA backups were available).
It is always better to get the Xperia edition since the GPe ROM is ported and the developer community is much bigger with a better ROM selection. Since there is a different partition scheme on the GPe, it isn't possible to cross-flash since re-partitioning hasn't been developed yet (i.e. fully convert the Xperia edition to a GPe).
The most common reaction I got is "Is it a tablet?" or "Is that a phone?"
ROMs are very stable, the GPe is absolutely rock solid but others are working well too.
I would say that kernel and ROM installation is easy peasy: root with Easy Root Tool, take your TA backup, fastboot DoomKernel, reboot into recovery and flash. I was up and running with my C6833 in no time, much easier now than last year when I had the C6802 unrooted for three weeks until vRoot came out and then had to flash pre-rooted images.
You have to unlock the bootloader for custom kernels but that is easy to do through Sony (getting the code) and then fastboot oem unlock insert code and everything is set. I would say that it is almost Nexus procedure here.
On the camera side of things, I say this: if you want really great pictures, get one of the lens cameras - Sony has a camera cover for the Ultra. Otherwise, the internal camera works. It is not great but it works. My viewpoint has always been to get the DSC-QX series of cameras instead of having to choose devices depending on their camera quality.
E90 Commie said:
If you buy a new Ultra, it will have .108 preinstalled, which is easy to root with Easy Root Tool. Then take the TA backup and go ahead with flash of a new ROM and kernel.
It is much easier to root the C6833 today than it was one year ago (root required unlocked bootloader and this was before TA backups were available).
It is always better to get the Xperia edition since the GPe ROM is ported and the developer community is much bigger with a better ROM selection. Since there is a different partition scheme on the GPe, it isn't possible to cross-flash since re-partitioning hasn't been developed yet (i.e. fully convert the Xperia edition to a GPe).
The most common reaction I got is "Is it a tablet?" or "Is that a phone?"
ROMs are very stable, the GPe is absolutely rock solid but others are working well too.
I would say that kernel and ROM installation is easy peasy: root with Easy Root Tool, take your TA backup, fastboot DoomKernel, reboot into recovery and flash. I was up and running with my C6833 in no time, much easier now than last year when I had the C6802 unrooted for three weeks until vRoot came out and then had to flash pre-rooted images.
You have to unlock the bootloader for custom kernels but that is easy to do through Sony (getting the code) and then fastboot oem unlock insert code and everything is set. I would say that it is almost Nexus procedure here.
On the camera side of things, I say this: if you want really great pictures, get one of the lens cameras - Sony has a camera cover for the Ultra. Otherwise, the internal camera works. It is not great but it works. My viewpoint has always been to get the DSC-QX series of cameras instead of having to choose devices depending on their camera quality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot. I'm really convinced on getting this, I'll probably make an order today and if I really don't like it (but I think I'll love it) then on amazon there's easy returns so it won't be an issue. And I'll check out those lense cases if they aren't too expensive
abdel12345 said:
Thanks a lot. I'm really convinced on getting this, I'll probably make an order today and if I really don't like it (but I think I'll love it) then on amazon there's easy returns so it won't be an issue. And I'll check out those lense cases if they aren't too expensive
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you will be happy with it. I am so happy with the Ultra that I have two. One C6802 bought on august 1 last year and a C6833 from a week ago since I wanted LTE and couldn't find any viable replacement.
The Ultra with the GPe ROM and Xposed Framework is an absolutely unsurpassed piece of equipment. Even things like multiwindow works great and there is also an app called Floating Apps that fully replaces the Sony Small Apps as well. I found it yesterday, installed the trial and bought it ten minutes later - it is absolutely great.
Floating Apps from Google Play
Edit: BTW, Google Hangouts Dialer is a complete replacement for T-Mobile WiFi Calling and the C6833 works great with their LTE. I have been pulling down data with up to 53 Mbit/s according to my SpeedTests.
I would also recommend you to get a data only plan, I pay $30 for 3 GB data, no talk and text since I do everything through Hangouts and Hangouts Dialer (which means free unlimited talk and text in the US, ¢1 and up per minute for international calls through GV). Better sound quality as well compared to classic calling. I have no plans on returning to a regular talk/text/data plan again, just data is perfect.
E90 Commie said:
I think you will be happy with it. I am so happy with the Ultra that I have two. One C6802 bought on august 1 last year and a C6833 from a week ago since I wanted LTE and couldn't find any viable replacement.
The Ultra with the GPe ROM and Xposed Framework is an absolutely unsurpassed piece of equipment. Even things like multiwindow works great and there is also an app called Floating Apps that fully replaces the Sony Small Apps as well. I found it yesterday, installed the trial and bought it ten minutes later - it is absolutely great.
Floating Apps from Google Play
Edit: BTW, Google Hangouts Dialer is a complete replacement for T-Mobile WiFi Calling and the C6833 works great with their LTE. I have been pulling down data with up to 53 Mbit/s according to my SpeedTests.
I would also recommend you to get a data only plan, I pay $30 for 3 GB data, no talk and text since I do everything through Hangouts and Hangouts Dialer (which means free unlimited talk and text in the US, ¢1 and up per minute for international calls through GV). Better sound quality as well compared to classic calling. I have no plans on returning to a regular talk/text/data plan again, just data is perfect.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently have a 23 dollar plan for unlimited talk text and data (only 100 mb LTE then drops to 3g/normal 4g speeds) its with lycamobile who runs on T-Mobile. I like this plan because I text a lot and most of my friends have iPhones and don't use hangouts. Only thing that sucks is once the 100 mb runs out pretty quickly the 3g is alright but sometimes gets frustrating. But this plan is too cheap to give up lol.
Just checked out the floating apps app on my nexus 10 and g2 and it's great. I'll definitely buy it considering it's only 2$. I've decided to place thus order. And I checked out the camera attachable lens accessory but the cheapest one is 200 and I really don't need the camera that much to justify buying it. Plus I probably wouldn't really use it that much. It's just too big of an attachment
Sent from my LG-VS980
I too will make a purchase in a few weeks, just waiting to see if there is any further reduction (Black Friday/end of year stock clearout). I played with this phone in a store yesterday. I can only answer the first 3:
1) Camera seemed not so great to be honest.
2) It is a mini tablet with phone capability. If you go around holding it up against your face people will laugh.
3) I'd suggest the stock Xperia (C6833).
jess91 said:
I too will make a purchase in a few weeks, just waiting to see if there is any further reduction (Black Friday/end of year stock clearout). I played with this phone in a store yesterday. I can only answer the first 3:
1) Camera seemed not so great to be honest.
2) It is a mini tablet with phone capability. If you go around holding it up against your face people will laugh.
3) I'd suggest the stock Xperia (C6833).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good idea I completely forgot about black Friday/ cyber Monday it might get even cheaper then.
Also what store did you try it at? Id love to try one in person. I was just about to make my order now too but I think I'll wait another 2 weeks and see the prices then. And for phone calls I usually have headphones with me so I'll just talk through those rather than putting it against my face.
Sent from my LG-VS980
Oh and what do you guys prefer white or black? I like that the black looks really nice and uniform but it does look like the white hides the smudges better. Is the white have the silver frame like the z2 does? It looks really nice but kinda distracts you from the rest of the screen. So I'll probably go with black unless there's another benefit to the white
Sent from my LG-VS980
abdel12345 said:
Oh and what do you guys prefer white or black? I like that the black looks really nice and uniform but it does look like the white hides the smudges better. Is the white have the silver frame like the z2 does? It looks really nice but kinda distracts you from the rest of the screen. So I'll probably go with black unless there's another benefit to the white
Sent from my LG-VS980
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Click to collapse
I personally prefer the black one. I don't like it when a device is only part white. I would've chosen the white one if it was completly white, like the Z3 Compact Tablet, but it isn't, so that's why i went with black.
abdel12345 said:
I currently have a 23 dollar plan for unlimited talk text and data (only 100 mb LTE then drops to 3g/normal 4g speeds) its with lycamobile who runs on T-Mobile. I like this plan because I text a lot and most of my friends have iPhones and don't use hangouts. Only thing that sucks is once the 100 mb runs out pretty quickly the 3g is alright but sometimes gets frustrating. But this plan is too cheap to give up lol.
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Hangouts gives unlimited texting (regular SMS) in the US and unlimited talk to regular landlines and cellulars as well.
So you don't need a regular talk/text plan in order to have unlimited talk and text to regular phone numbers any more. Hangouts and Hangouts Dialer solves everything and I can attest this since I do all my communication that way.
E90 Commie said:
Hangouts gives unlimited texting (regular SMS) in the US and unlimited talk to regular landlines and cellulars as well.
So you don't need a regular talk/text plan in order to have unlimited talk and text to regular phone numbers any more. Hangouts and Hangouts Dialer solves everything and I can attest this since I do all my communication that way.
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But does the dialer use your phone number? So will people see my number and can call me back on it? Also you can text anyone even if they don't have has hangouts free? Because that seems too good to be true but if it is I'll check out that plan
i have a zte grand x max+ now but who knows itf it will ever get root, so on this phone how is speaker quality is it loud?and the screen is it bright? and is the phone fluid opening and closing apps etc, after you root it to do some tweaks? thanks
as near as i can tell this would be superior to my Zte Grand x max+, they seem to be same both 720p display, same cpu&gpu, but the things that seem to me off hand would make it better is cpu is 1.2 on my Zte, and 1.6 on this, and this is rootable, but im still looking for opinions from owners of this phone
Phone is amazing. I am rooted with a bunch of xposed modules installed. No issues at all. Fast and smooth operation, and network speeds on MetroPCS are super-fast. I was skeptical about getting this phone, but I am super happy with it. Of course, the battery life is just insane. I don't use the speakerphone much, but when I do, it is plenty loud for me. The screen is beautiful as well. You can always get it from Amazon, they have a great return policy.
I second the suggestion of buying this from Amazon. That's what I did and my 30 day return window is almost up. But I am keeping this phone. I am also rooted and have Nova installed as well. The battery life just blows your mind. I do one long charge on the weekend and that's it. Maybe ten or twenty minutes charges once in a while.
Does it get pretty good cell signal? I'm looking to replace a Galaxy Note 2, which I recently dropped and busted. :crying:
I've been a Samsung user for a few years, but my Note 2 got crappy cell signal compared to the S3 that I replaced (on AT&T, btw, same number and sim card). I was looking at a used Note 4, but don't really feel like dishing out >$500 on a decent used one, and you still can't root the AT&T/Verizon versions, as far as I know. I know you can root the T-Mobile version, but still not too interested in spending the big bucks.
This one's been getting pretty decent reviews for a mid-tier phone, and I'm a fan of big screens (I like to read/watch videos a lot). This one looks like it would fit the bill. I think I just read that Huawei is going to release Android L (Lollipop?) some time in the first half of this year, so that's a plus.
monkey39 said:
Does it get pretty good cell signal?
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I have a Mate2 on T-Mobile and I get 4G LTE pretty much everywhere I go. Although that might be on T-Mobile's part, not the phone.
monkey39 said:
I think I just read that Huawei is going to release Android L (Lollipop?) some time in the first half of this year, so that's a plus.
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Yes, you read that right. We're just past the first half of the first half of this year, so hopefully we see some more info soon.
ScoobSTi, how do you like the phone?
ScoobSTi said:
I have a Mate2 on T-Mobile and I get 4G LTE pretty much everywhere I go. Although that might be on T-Mobile's part, not the phone.
.
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Well, that gives me hope. I'm pretty sure my signal problems at home were phone related. Got decent signal on AT&T with my Galaxy S3 (which I still have), but when I switched to a Note 2, signal went down the toilet. And I would lose signal with regularity in any big box store (Walmart, Target, etc).
Anyway, ordered! I'm hoping some custom roms become available; I'm used to the plethora of choices available for the Samsung phones, hope I can play around with this one a bit.
leo5111 said:
ScoobSTi, how do you like the phone?
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Click to collapse
Love it! I'm in school full-time and I don't have time to worry about the battery percentage, bringing chargers, finding outlets, etc. I need a phone that does everything I ask of it and lasts long as well. As for the specs, yes they aren't great, but it's still snappy and responsive. Almost on par with my sister's Nexus 5. Occasionally there are dropped frames or app crashes, but that's sadly typical of Android. Sometimes I get a bit annoyed with the size of the phone but that only happens when I wear slim or skinny jeans. No, I'm not worried about bending it!
The only real problem I have is with the software. Like I said, I just need a phone that works, and it does, but EMUI doesn't look nice. I could deal with it but the dreams of getting CM11 or CM12 on this make me a bit impatient.
monkey39 said:
Well, that gives me hope. I'm pretty sure my signal problems at home were phone related. Got decent signal on AT&T with my Galaxy S3 (which I still have), but when I switched to a Note 2, signal went down the toilet. And I would lose signal with regularity in any big box store (Walmart, Target, etc).
Anyway, ordered! I'm hoping some custom roms become available; I'm used to the plethora of choices available for the Samsung phones, hope I can play around with this one a bit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We have a dev working on CM11 AND CM12, but he's been busy with work (*cough* Cyanogen) so there hasn't been progress lately. Also, thanks for reminding me about those big stores. I forgot, I DO lose signal in places like BJ's. I always thought it was because of the building itself though.
ScoobSTi said:
Also, thanks for reminding me about those big stores. I forgot, I DO lose signal in places like BJ's. I always thought it was because of the building itself though.
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Click to collapse
It is the building, also - those buildings have a lot of infrastructure between your phone and the cell towers, but some phones have better antennas than others. For example, my wife has an iPhone 5, and she gets a signal in them, while I'm staring at a crossed out circle for my signal indicator. And I don't remember completely losing signal with my S3 as I did with my Note 2, although I would lose a bar or two. I'm back using my S3 right now, since my Note 2 went tits up - I'll check it out next time I'm out and about.
---------- Post added at 11:03 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:55 PM ----------
ScoobSTi said:
The only real problem I have is with the software. Like I said, I just need a phone that works, and it does, but EMUI doesn't look nice. I could deal with it but the dreams of getting CM11 or CM12 on this make me a bit impatient.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, the UI is the main thing that had me hesitating. All of the reviews I've read about it list it as a negative - I know I can always install a different launcher, but those sometimes come with their own problems. I think the Android L release is supposed come with the 3.0 version of the UI. I haven't read much about it yet, but I'm hoping it's better than the current version. And, of course, I'll be a happy camper when CM11 or CM12 is released! Not too concerned about it in the interim, though, as I don't tend to get too crazy with the UI customizations.
monkey39 said:
Yeah, the UI is the main thing that had me hesitating. All of the reviews I've read about it list it as a negative - I know I can always install a different launcher, but those sometimes come with their own problems. I think the Android L release is supposed come with the 3.0 version of the UI. I haven't read much about it yet, but I'm hoping it's better than the current version. And, of course, I'll be a happy camper when CM11 or CM12 is released! Not too concerned about it in the interim, though, as I don't tend to get too crazy with the UI customizations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, we are supposed to get EMUI 3 as well. You can check it out here. Looks pretty nice, if you ask me.
is this version rootable? http://swappa.com/listing/DRN961/view i was looking in android devolpment i did not see root for the lo3 version thanks
leo5111 said:
is this version rootable? http://swappa.com/listing/DRN961/view i was looking in android devolpment i did not see root for the lo3 version thanks
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Click to collapse
Yeah, it's been done. Try the links below - just be sure to make a nandroid backup of your stock rom before making any changes...Android L is supposed be released sometime in the next few months. Pretty sure you'll need the stock rom for OTA.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ascend-mate2/general/progress-rooting-ham2-t2867975
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
http://forum.xda-developers.com/asc.../2014-09-22-teamwin-recovery-project-t2885144
monkey39 said:
Yeah, it's been done. Try the links below - just be sure to make a nandroid backup of your stock rom before making any changes...Android L is supposed be released sometime in the next few months. Pretty sure you'll need the stock rom for OTA.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ascend-mate2/general/progress-rooting-ham2-t2867975
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
http://forum.xda-developers.com/asc.../2014-09-22-teamwin-recovery-project-t2885144
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Click to collapse
thanks, have you got youres yet? if so how do you like it? my zte grand x max+ would be fine if i could root it and freeze the crap i dont want, but alas i didnt know ZTE,S nickname was "FORT KNOX" locking their phones down
leo5111 said:
thanks, have you got youres yet? if so how do you like it? my zte grand x max+ would be fine if i could root it and freeze the crap i dont want, but alas i didnt know ZTE,S nickname was "FORT KNOX" locking their phones down
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Click to collapse
No, just ordered one a couple of days ago from Ebay - should arrive this week sometime. I wanted something with a large screen, but wasn't interested in paying >$500 for a used Galaxy Note 4. The price point on this is great, and has a lot of decent features. I was looking at the OnePlus One, but it doesn't have expandable memory, something that's a must-have for me.
BTW, you'll probably need ADB and Fastboot - check out the link below:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
The ascend mate is good in all aspects, the only time service gets choppy is in Walmarts
Sent from my MT2L03 using XDA Free mobile app
can the lo3 version do at&t LTE?
found this on amazon about my question http://www.amazon.com/purchase-cont...m_cd_ql_tlc_al?_encoding=UTF8&asin=B00JPIAGW0 no idea how accurate it is
leo5111 said:
can the lo3 version do at&t LTE?
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Click to collapse
yes. L03 is the USA version and works great on att and T-Mobile LTE. I have it on Straighttalk using att towers. I get fast strong LTE coverage in my area and its great!
Sent from my MT2L03 using Tapatalk
arcadesdude said:
yes. L03 is the USA version and works great on att and T-Mobile LTE. I have it on Straighttalk using att towers. I get fast strong LTE coverage in my area and its great!
Sent from my MT2L03 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
you like the phone? have you rooted yet?
Coming from an S3 S4 S5 and ready for a new flavor. Been reading here all day after seeing the Z3 last night.
Anything else I need to know coming from Sami.
App to SD does not work but is implemented in lollipop. I wasn't initially aware of that when I first got mine. I love mine ditched the Note4 for it.
Thanks for responding, Gonna see what VZW store around here has them tomorrow
Bobby Buggs said:
Thanks for responding, Gonna see what VZW store around here has them tomorrow
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You're going to love the battery life. Also, you might like the minimalistic touch of Sony for Android UI, depending on your tastes.
Last thing is, simultaneous voice and data won't come until lollipop, which is still pretty soon I'm feeling. Not a big hassle if you're connected to Wi-Fi most of the time.
Bobby Buggs said:
Coming from an S3 S4 S5 and ready for a new flavor. Been reading here all day after seeing the Z3 last night.
Anything else I need to know coming from Sami.
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Click to collapse
don't buy the verizon version if you are about customizing it
you see there is no development for it at all so far,
z3 standart versions have a little development already
My devel days are behind me, I dont have the time to keep up with the changes any more so the VZ version will do
The best time is to get it now since Verizon is selling it awfully low for. 99 cents on a new contract. Ever since moving onto this phone, I have no big desire as before to Dev this since everything is near perfect.
And for some reason, T-Mobile discontinued selling the Z3 today...
Wonder why Tmo dropped it, is it cause the z4 is coming out?
Oh no.... next version regret syndrome before I even buy
Bobby Buggs said:
Wonder why Tmo dropped it, is it cause the z4 is coming out?
Oh no.... next version regret syndrome before I even buy
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Click to collapse
it's funny how people think about z4, that's in my opinion (even if i had the money) a bit weird, since the z3 isn't that old... no offence
Cant call Vzw till 10 est to see if the store has any:fingers-crossed:
Having the Z3v,I wouldn't trade it up for any other phone unless it would be a newer Xperia. My other choice would have been a Note 4, but having the freedom to not worry about water damage and incredible battery life is what I've been long awaited for this when the Z2 was introduced.
Ok, I got mine. So whats the best/fastest way to charge this phone?
So Im just rebuilding my apps and all I can say is Wow I really like the way this thing runs. Lollipop really Fugged up my S5, how has it been for you guys
Bobby Buggs said:
Ok, I got mine. So whats the best/fastest way to charge this phone?
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Click to collapse
There's only two ways to charge: Regular and wireless charging. Wireless charging isn't as fast as regular charging, but it saves the hassle from taking the port out and inserting the charger correctly. I recommend either the Choe Stadium wireless charger from Amazon or the Tylt Wireless Charger if you want to spend the extra cash.
And I very much agree. I'm glad I held off on getting the S5/M8. My experience with this phone is simply the best, and I just shake my head out how people overlook this regardless of development.
makes me want one.. i have been sitting happy on my S4 running google edition.. scared to upgrade because seems like everything is root locked these days but it sounds like there is no need to root this phone..
one question, does this phone have expandable storage??
qs504792 said:
makes me want one.. i have been sitting happy on my S4 running google edition.. scared to upgrade because seems like everything is root locked these days but it sounds like there is no need to root this phone..
one question, does this phone have expandable storage??
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Click to collapse
Yes, this phone has expandable storage up to 128 GB. It comes with a standard 32gb internal memory on board so it's still plentiful.
Good phone, but bad support... as in poor marketing, limited accessories and delayed Lollipop update.
mine comes in mail tomorrow! im moving from a jailbroken iphone 4 that has been terrible , although i still use my htc sensation running unofficial cm11 because its faster . im a lil worried about the transition from rooted devices to a non rooted one.
shakan09 said:
mine comes in mail tomorrow! im moving from a jailbroken iphone 4 that has been terrible , although i still use my htc sensation running unofficial cm11 because its faster . im a lil worried about the transition from rooted devices to a non rooted one.
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Trust me, this is fast and you won't have a problem with it. You'll enjoy it
GigaSPX said:
Trust me, this is fast and you won't have a problem with it. You'll enjoy it
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Click to collapse
thanks! i hope so :good: that seems to be what everyone is saying about it