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Well, it's been fun.
It was renewal day this weekend, here in the UK as many of you will know all our handsets are subsidised by the network operators. Therefore every so often we have the chance to "upgrade" our handsets, it is a merry dance. Once "out of contract", we can change operators, switch price plans, and get a new handset for "free" or a combination of any of these. It can all be rather confusing, but the long and the short of it is that I can get a shiny new piece of kit, so it's great.
Anyway, I've had the vario II on t-mobile in the UK for one year and now it's been chopped so I thought I'd leave my thoughts. It was good. Obviously I flashed it with jasjamming and more recently schaps plus several others. I reckon I flashed it probably 50 times, reinstalled settings and apps, a compulsive tinkerer I suppose!
Pros...
Full keyboard
High Speed Data on t-mobile was good and genuinely useful
TomTom 6 (with ext. gps receiver purchased on ebay for 30 quid)
Useable web browser (just)
Customisable with firmware flashing!
Amazing forum here full of helpful people
Cons...
BATTERY LIFE (it's appalling, there is no getting away from it)
Heavy as a hod of bricks
Form factor (too big)
------
So what did I go for...
Nokia 6120 Classic.
wtf nokia 6120?!
Nothing like going back to the dark ages
you should have held out for a couple of months and got one of these
http://www.htc.com/product/03-product_htctouch_dual.htm
I myself have bought a new N95 8GB as my second phone.
Bingobob,
Good luck to you. You made the choice you want and that's all that matters. Never quite sure why people think that what they would buy/get is what everyone else should buy/get!
What did you do with the t-mobile device then? Sell it or is it up for sale?
WB
that's the thing, not sure. Flash it with something I suppose and/or use it as a TomTom or ebay it. not sure.
Well if you fancy offloading it and its not too expensive, PM me. I am assuming its in good condition? Also assuming that its unlocked, etc, and you have all the bits for it?
Cheers
WB
It;s also for me the end..
I bought a Nokia N95.
Ciao, Good Bye
Each to their own. Personally I have to stay with touch screen phones... from here it will be the Kaiser or some variant down the line...
Same here, I love touch screens.
Although I'm very happy with my hermes I'm waiting for the the touch cruise.
Well, I'm waiting for a 3G iPhone, no more WM6 device I think.
Same here, when there's a good offer for the iphone I'll ditch the HTC. But as for 3G, that's only a vague rumor, I wouldn't count on it.
I could never go back to a non-Windows phone.
Especially for a Nokia or an iPhone.
I've played with various Nokias over the years and I think that they are the worst mobiles out of any I've ever touched.
As for the iPhone, over-hyped, over-priced, and under-developed.
I'm HTC's ***** now.
kilrah said:
Same here, when there's a good offer for the iphone I'll ditch the HTC. But as for 3G, that's only a vague rumor, I wouldn't count on it.
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Click to collapse
They have to make one with 3G or it will not sell in Europe. Also needs mms.
i switched to IPHONE. and i am very stisfied.
i watched this forum for quite a while, but however you will patch the hermes, it will never come even near to the iphone. everybody tries to construct iphone-like UIs. so why not take the original one?
peter
I've moved from my TyTN to an iPhone. I can't see myself going back to the TyTN anytime soon either.
iPhone ist great for design (friggin awesome btw ) and "OS" only (included internet browsing) it's really neat and user friendly.
Otherwise all the rest is total crap, most of the time technology wise
No 3G (TyTN has 3G+) a heresy for a phone that want's to be "multimedia"
Camera 2megapixel (same as TyTN, crap for both )
Bad autonomy (i'm connected on 3G with BBC on all the time for straight 34h without any problems)
No email downloading possible or push mail
So if apple re-considers and brings out a phone that has all those abilities yeah I would gladly change. Moreover, BBC or something equivalent is for me top priority
what do you think about the new htc touch cruise...?
The Iphone is personally not for me. I want to customize the phone when I want to.
Also no 3G is really a deal braker for me.
As to the UI I admit MS has something to learn from Apple but other then that no thank you.
sdemon said:
The Iphone is personally not for me. I want to customize the phone when I want to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the cool thing, you actually can. What interests me and has drawn me to WM was the ability to fiddle with it, do a bunch of hacks and tweaks etc. However, while the thing is very flexible and powerful it's "unusable". 3 seconds to exit from sleep, up to 5-10 after opening the keyboard to let it rotate screen and become responsive again, ...
Once you've tried internet browsing on the iPhone / iPod touch you just realise that WM's IE even with addons is pretty much the worst thing you could think of, only to be used in last resort, while I can be nearly as effective on the iphone than on my PC...
Guys are developing apps for the iphone at the same rate than here on WM6, and having a full Unix-based OS allows for even a LOT more possibilities than a mobile Windows version...
The lack of 3G is indeed a pain. But then, when I use it on my HTC it's by using it as a modem for the laptop, as there's no way to actually make use of it on the device itself...
If there was an official news saying that the European one would have 3G I'd wait. But I'm not dreaming and know there is VERY little chance. We'll know soon, as France will have them in a few days. But for now, the imported ones are selling like hot cakes, suppliers are getting out of stock all the time and prices go up as they have difficulties sourcing them. So I don't think not having 3G will bother anyone. Especially with the sky-high prices for mobile internet around Europe.
Hey all, I use my G1 and love it, Was happy with my MDA but now comes the debate.. TP2 or HD2, TP2 is still more expensive and I like the keyboard idea more.. but seems HD2 is stronger.
I know TP2 can install android os which sounds cool. But bottom line, should I forget about the HD2 and go after a TP2 or would you all say HD2 is defiantly better?
Im looking to use this more as a pocket pc vs a phone. =)
Hello,
As anyone day for ages: Rhodium has the best keyboard a smartphone has ever had. If you type a lot - go for Rhodium. Otherwise, Leo is in any way better imho.
Greetings,
Happy Rhodium user )
Yeah, if you are looking for pocket pc functionality I would go with the TP2. I can run Ubuntu on it, which you can't do with the HD2 (yet) I really really really can't say enough good things about the keyboard. But the HD2 is more horsepower for less cash. So if you need a keyboard for a more pc like experience, TP2. Otherwise, the HD2 seems like a natural choice.
Yea Im looking at HD2 specs.. quite impressive, flash camera, 5mp camera, 1 ghz processor (vs 528), wifi router mode (This one is big for me.. I use that on my g1 all the time, but if this built in one lets PSP, PS3 etc connect, then thats instant win!)
I heard from some the vk is not that bad. Big enough screen.
TP2 running ubuntu, I LIKE that idea ALOT. I always believe terminal commanding on a vk sucks.. but Id be willing to go for it. Processor speed and ram is always good to have.
TP2 is an awesome device, but I got used to typing on the display, and since the Leo's one is definitely bigger, I would choose the powerful HD2 now - with no doubts. I thought I cannot live without HW QWERTY keyboard, but it's all just about first few days (I hated the software keyboard for week or two). I recommend you HD2, although I'm TP2 user witch no major complaints .
BTW, TP2 can do WiFi routing with no problem . But the Ubuntu really sucks for now. Pain in the ass to move the cursor around.
HD2 will have the ability to run Android too you think? Or can it dual boot?
Yes, for sure the HD2 will get Android thru hatret. I would get even a step ahead writing that HD2 will run the Android much faster then TP2
When you do android on TP2 or HD2 would it have root access too?
I've used my TP2 as a wireless router for my laptop. Only tried with my laptop and my sisters imac, both worked.
Best place to check would be the android tp2 developer forums
WHOO HOO! Already sold out on CS. I got mine for 200$ I am now the owner of a HD2 =D ty all.
It'll be nice to see a comparison between tp2 and hd2. I know reviews are all over the place, and I have played hd2 in the store (of course they're out of stock, it's just the display model I'm fiddling with), but always nice to see from a person with real hands-on experience.
I wouldn't mind the upgrade, except I can't justify it. As a current tp2 user I really don't care the keyboard that much (touchpal takes care of all the type I need, plus copy paste, etc), but one flaw I found with hd2 is the phone is locked in portrait in word when I rotate it. I was trying to access the larger landscape keyboard in word, and it seemed not available. In contrast, iphone does this a lot better. I wish I can achieve that w/o additional software (I know it's do-able with other software but why do I have to?)
HD2 has all the awesome hardware specs, and I would very much like to get one if I don't already own my tp2 (can't really do the upgrade though). However what deters me also include the dying wm6.5 OS. Granted I think I hate wm7 even more (c'mon, MS, don't make wm another iphone OS), and I prefer the HD2 hardware running android. Maybe this is what I really want:
http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/23/htc-evo-4g-is-sprints-android-powered-knight-in-superphone-armo/
Mysticales said:
TP2 or HD2, TP2 is still more expensive and I like the keyboard idea more.. but seems HD2 is stronger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On amazon.com the HD2 is more expensive than the TP2.
But would be interesting to know, where you got your HD2 for $200 !!!
Good thing you chose the HD2. It beats the Rhodium in every way but the keyboard. But it comes with a great VK called Swype. I'm using that now on my Nexus One and its the fastest VK I have ever used! Nearly as fast as using my Rhodium's keyboard.
The Rhodium is extremely sluggish and the HD2 is not sluggish in any way. I tried one out a couple days ago and was blown away.
uhm,... anyone can answer my question? Where is the HD2 sold for cheaper than the TP2 ?
I got mine with a 2 year upgrade for my tmobile contract. =) 200$
Don-Carlo said:
uhm,... anyone can answer my question? Where is the HD2 sold for cheaper than the TP2 ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amazon and Wirefly both have it for $99 right now with a new line, and both they and T-mobile direct are offering it for $199 with a line upgrade.
Thanks Mysticales and sirphunkee!
Oh ok,... I thought you were talking about retailer prices (without a new line or upgrade). Cuz I was looking at amazon for just the devices and the HD2 is clearly more expensive than the TP2.
$99/$199 with a new line/upgrade is still a really good price,... they dont sell that cheap in Germany. Even with the most expensive service provider contract (about $150 / month fixed costs) you still have to add $300 for the device. Ridiculously expensive.
Don-Carlo said:
Thanks Mysticales and sirphunkee!
Oh ok,... I thought you were talking about retailer prices (without a new line or upgrade). Cuz I was looking at amazon for just the devices and the HD2 is clearly more expensive than the TP2.
$99/$199 with a new line/upgrade is still a really good price,... they dont sell that cheap in Germany. Even with the most expensive service provider contract (about $150 / month fixed costs) you still have to add $300 for the device. Ridiculously expensive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It helps to balance out how much WE have to pay for an Audi or BMW over here
Do US T-mo devices work on the european T-mo network?
I bought the HD2 for my mother-in-law; I kid you not; my M-I-L but she's the cool type; anyway, I got the device 6 days after I ordered it March 24 and like all HardSPL2'd and flashed it with NRGZ28's Leo version of the ROM I have on my Touch Pro2.
Personally, I'm on the fence. I am absolutely in love with the Touch Pro2's form factor and keyboard. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know there's twice the horsepower under the hood of the HD2. We have 3G in town but where we live we have EDGE and if there was any one thing that stood out between my Rhodium and her Leo and that was how smooth Opera, Skyfire and MIE pulled up web pages and pretty darn fast despite EDGE.
Where the HD2 also excels is on a windshield mount and there above all using yuor finger pads really shines. I use CoPilot Live 8 and no problems at all using it there or any of the homescreen functions.
I use my TP2 for CoPilot Live 8, internet, email, text, taking pictures; games while I play a little I really have no interest. The TP2 was introduced by T-Mobile as the device for business professionals and the HD2 for entertainment and I really think that's how this is going to shape itself out and of course the keyboard.
Look, I put the 16 gig sd card in my TP2 and it ran the movies flawless. The games loaded and they ran flawless.
The HD2's form factor is my biggest issue; it reminds me of watching the Star Trek series; particularly TNG and remember those pads? That's what this device feels like in your hand; like holding the edge of a coffee plate. Body Glove makes a case for the Touch Pro2 that can take a beating; the HD2 is fragile and I've yet to see a case for it that can take the beating the case for the TP2 can. What's in T-Mobile stores today is a clear case and a kick stand and if there was ever one device that cried out for a screen protector this baby is it.
The HD2 is one of those devices I like and I don't like and T-Mobile introduced the device at a price set lower than the introduction of the TP2 and I bet the house had they introduced the TP2 at $199; they'd been sold out too, but up to about a week before the HD2 launched TP2s went for $269.99 with contract.
My data plan is T-Mobile Web (Unlimited T-Zones) and it's no secret its identical in every function as Unlimited Web for Smart Phones; difference is $19 cheaper at $5.99. Retail vs Contract or $449.99 vs $199.99 or $250.00 difference. That's a payoff of the device in 13 months if I choose not to factor my older MyFaves Plan vs Even More or Even More Plus into the equation. For those of us who have been with any one provider, let's be real, a device with voice, text and data isn't exactly cheap.
For those of us with grandfather plans it isn't just how cool the device is; it too is do we go it without a contract or with a contract; however for us a contract forces us to change our plan. The irony of it is, there is nothing in T-Mobile T&C that says T-Mobile Web is any less of a data plan than web2go or Unlimited Web for Smart Phones.
Ill agree there, Web browsing is actually ENJOYABLE now on the HD2. Which is good!
Hey Gforum, I posted this in Q&A Saturday & http://androidforums.com/htc-evo-4g/200765-question-day-get-evo-wait-something-better.html but am looking for more honest, experienced community feedback->market insight so I post it here now:
Amazon's current price is $99.99 (with new service plan+activation fee credit for up to $36 through 11:59 p.m. PDT October 18, 2010) & Sprint's ETF is listed at $200 through month 4 minus $10/mo prorate thereafter so I'm finally considering pulling the trigger on it but would appreciate some community feedback here.
The ETF is important since I want to know the exit strategy & potential total cost of ownership & have Wi-Fi available 90% of time so not sure that 10% MIA is worth $80+/month for 24 months (let's call that ~$2,000).
Frankly I would dump the EVO in a heartbeat when a handheld comes out with similar specs + projector (battery challenge yup yet I wouldn't be surprised to see a follow-up to the Samsung Beam soon).
Questions:
1) Order Question-Will Amazon let me enter Sprint Service Discount Codes & anyone care to share something better than 10% that is easy to use or must one call Sprint after order?
2) Is Wi-Fi reception still an issue for EVO?
3) Still SD card issues?
4) Video+Audio recording quality still questionable (compression codec issue-as photos seem quite nice)?
Is the following what I should expect or can it be improved:
HTC EVO Video test - Part I
HTC EVO Video test - Part II (Golden State Bridge)
HTC EVO 4G Camera Test - Part III (Front-facing camera)
iphone 4 vs. HTC EVO vs. Flip UltraHD video test
Smartphones HD Camcorder Video Samples (long)
Many Thanks,
Its a phone. Not a life changing purchase.
supchaka said:
Its a phone. Not a life changing purchase.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it was just a phone, I wouldn't bother..
I'm looking for feedback on a handheld computer with carrier phone functionalty..
If Sprint wasn't requiring user to sign a 24 month contract costing owner thousands of dollars or it worked on many carriers it would be an easier call.
Thanks for the smile supchaka but I'm looking for a bit more market insight..
If you're looking for a phone that'll last you through the next two years I wouldn't get the EVO. Aside from having a large display and some nice features (HDMI, 4G, kickstand, FFC), it's a pretty dated device. The phone is almost half a year old, and even when it was released, the GPU was already old and out performed by it's peers. The camera is not that great either but then again HTC almost always lags behind with that.
There's no doubt that I'd recommend to wait; but if you're set on Sprint you might have to wait a couple of months before something high end comes out.
Award Tour said:
If you're looking for a phone that'll last you through the next two years I wouldn't get the EVO. Aside from having a large display and some nice features (HDMI, 4G, kickstand, FFC), it's a pretty dated device. The phone is almost half a year old, and even when it was released, the GPU was already old and out performed by it's peers. The camera is not that great either but then again HTC almost always lags behind with that.
There's no doubt that I'd recommend to wait; but if you're set on Sprint you might have to wait a couple of months before something high end comes out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what the critic in me is skeptical about hence ETF talk but I'm surprised not to see more options on the horizon..
I was hoping the camcorder quality could be improved upon by now.
Shouldn't we have heard more about devices to become available by the holidays as I'm not sure I want to wait another 3,4,5,6 months..
Appreciate the feedback,
As Martin Cooper said, today's cell phones do a lot buy don't do any of them well. Who's Martin Cooper? Just the inventor of the cell phone.
I figure if I need a video camera I'll get my video camera. If I need a real camera I'll get my SLR. My phone will do in a pinch.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
You are usually given a chance at least once a year to get out of the ETF. Just wait till Sprint changes some policy in the contract and you are given 30 days to walk out.
Sprint also offers the cheapest rates compared to the other big name carriers. Just open a a small savings at a credit union and save 10% of your bill. Go online and find a sprint referral link and you'll be saving 15%... if you know someone that works at Chase, then try to work with them so you could be saving 24%.
There will always be something better in the future. If you wait for the next big thing, you might hesitate and wait or the next thing to follow that.
As far as your other questions, I have never had SD problems, wifi problems, or any issues taking pics or video. If anything, my phone has become a great tool for me on my jobsite.
overclockxp said:
As Martin Cooper said, today's cell phones do a lot buy don't do any of them well. Who's Martin Cooper? Just the inventor of the cell phone.
I figure if I need a video camera I'll get my video camera. If I need a real camera I'll get my SLR. My phone will do in a pinch.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't really buy that argument, the real appeal is that it's a convergence device.
surrealmethod said:
You are usually given a chance at least once a year to get out of the ETF. Just wait till Sprint changes some policy in the contract and you are given 30 days to walk out.
Sprint also offers the cheapest rates compared to the other big name carriers. Just open a a small savings at a credit union and save 10% of your bill. Go online and find a sprint referral link and you'll be saving 15%... if you know someone that works at Chase, then try to work with them so you could be saving 24%.
There will always be something better in the future. If you wait for the next big thing, you might hesitate and wait or the next thing to follow that.
As far as your other questions, I have never had SD problems, wifi problems, or any issues taking pics or video. If anything, my phone has become a great tool for me on my jobsite.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear you regarding its potential utility. While I would be on the watch for such an out of ETF I shouldn't count on it so I'll assume ETF worst case scenario. I should be able to add Sprint discount after purchase even if Amazon doesn't let me right ?
Now "Availability: Usually ships within 8 - 9 business days. Ships from and sold by Amazon.com." is kind of a bummer..
I guess the contracts don't mean much to me because I've been with sprint for as long as I can remember. I get an additional 20% off through my work so I'm not going anywhere. I have 5 lines and they all have different expire dates so I can grab a new phone pretty much whenever. Take an upgrade and swap the number. Also being a premiere customer they give you yearly upgrades on the primary line.
So I didn't take into consideration other peoples scenarios may not be the same as mine. I'm very grateful for that now because historically I haven't kept a phone for more than about 6 months
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
SMARTPHONEPC said:
I don't really buy that argument, the real appeal is that it's a convergence device.
I hear you regarding its potential utility. While I would be on the watch for such an out of ETF I shouldn't count on it so I'll assume ETF worst case scenario. I should be able to add Sprint discount after purchase even if Amazon doesn't let me right ?
Now "Availability: Usually ships within 8 - 9 business days. Ships from and sold by Amazon.com." is kind of a bummer..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanna say, I get your in depth thinking about a purchase, but really you are just thinking to much into it. Like others have touched on, in a short time the Evo will be old news. The phone that takes its place will be old news by summer next year. Phone tech is what, 4 months now? Just do as a ton of us do, pick a phone that suits you best for the time being. Because you'll want the new device next year. I thought the sprint hero was bad ass last year. But the Evo this year is badass. Either satisfy your urge for awesomeness now, or wait a couple months and be the first with the new end thing.
Sent from my Evo
You can always wait for better product, or you can buy the Evo today and enjoy it now. It's just matter of preference.
My gripes are poor battery life, extra 10 bucks monthly fee, and poor glass adhesive on LCD (I had glass lifting problem, and got a replacement after 2 week usage), but what it can do still out weighs the negatives.
Yes, the Evo is 6 months old, but it still can do and look better than many recent models that's out there right now.
FYI, I glanced at Epic at the store when I bought Evo on 10/1, and wasn't sold at all since it was very close to Touch Pro 2's look.
Really the only thing that really holds back the EVO is the GPU. Even the original Droid outperforms it. To invest into that NOW, not mention the next year or two, is just not a smart move when you can wait a few more months for something that is more future proof. If it weren't for the GPU I'd be saying the same thing as the last two posters but... I can't.
Just FYI the above only really applies if and when you game on you phone. I have quake and the major gameloft titles, but I have to say in the end I personally would never buy a phone based on its ability to play games.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
If you're not a gamer, the GPU thing really makes little to no difference. Then again if you're really into games you'd probably use dedicated hardware for that, like a DS or PSP.
The only games I find myself playing on my phone are simple, but addictive arcade style games. Bejewled, tetris, angrybirds and solitaire for the most part. Hardly taxing on the GPU!
The big screen will still be big, even 2 years down the road. It will still be a great device for browsing the web, checking email and messaging, and the GPS functionality is top notch. I'm really not worried about the device being horribly antiquated too soon, and 4G is only just starting to pop up around here so my experience has been consistently getting better.
creyc said:
If you're not a gamer, the GPU thing really makes little to no difference. Then again if you're really into games you'd probably use dedicated hardware for that, like a DS or PSP.
The only games I find myself playing on my phone are simple, but addictive arcade style games. Bejewled, tetris, angrybirds and solitaire for the most part. Hardly taxing on the GPU!
The big screen will still be big, even 2 years down the road. It will still be a great device for browsing the web, checking email and messaging, and the GPS functionality is top notch. I'm really not worried about the device being horribly antiquated too soon, and 4G is only just starting to pop up around here so my experience has been consistently getting better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not only about games. How will the GPU hold up once Android gets more UI intensive (and it will)? I'd rather be on the safe side.
No matter what phone you get it will be outdated soon after you purchase it. What do you want from a phone. Evo does everything I want since it is rooted.
I do like 3D graphics but I currently don't really game on them. Honestly I haven't seen one engaging enough to hold my attention for more than a few minutes & if I did I'd still probably feel like I was wasting time (idle guilt)..
However I do like shooting videos which is the main reason I considered the iPhone 4 but in the end I vastly prefer the open customizability of Android & integration with google services not to mention larger screen (hopefully I won't regret its 16 bit color). I'll likely have to develop for both platforms.
Only reason I use an iPhone 3GS now is because it was a gift but I'm mostly bored with it. I gather most on these forums are not entirely bored with their EVO..
I do wonder how pervasive tablets will become and to what extent they will take over smartphone functionality..(at least an EVO still fits in a shirt pocket)
Award Tour said:
It's not only about games. How will the GPU hold up once Android gets more UI intensive (and it will)? I'd rather be on the safe side.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you currently using an EVO? I do think there will be some cool market developments but unless there is news in the next 24 hours, I may not want to continue waiting.
BTW, Are the Sprint Taxes & Surcharges laughable? -Thanks
SMARTPHONEPC said:
I do like 3D graphics but I currently don't really game on them. Honestly I haven't seen one engaging enough to hold my attention for more than a few minutes & if I did I'd still probably feel like I was wasting time (idle guilt)..
However I do like shooting videos which is the main reason I considered the iPhone 4 but in the end I vastly prefer the open customizability of Android & integration with google services not to mention larger screen (hopefully I won't regret its 16 bit color). I'll likely have to develop for both platforms.
Only reason I use an iPhone 3GS now is because it was a gift but I'm mostly bored with it. I gather most on these forums are not entirely bored with their EVO..
I do wonder how pervasive tablets will become and to what extent they will take over smartphone functionality..(at least an EVO still fits in a shirt pocket)
Are you currently using an EVO? I do think there will be some cool market developments but unless there is news in the next 24 hours, I may not want to continue waiting.
BTW, Are the Sprint Taxes & Surcharges laughable? -Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I'm currently using a EVO, got it in June and will trade up once a new high end HTC Android (and maybe the WP7 TP7) phone hits Sprint.
Edit: This post illustrates the GPU gap between the EVO (Nexus One has the same GPU), it's competitors (PowerVR - Galaxy S shown here but Motorola uses a version that is inbetween the EVO and Galaxy S), and current HTC phones. Ask yourself if you want to get stuck with specs which are already WAY behind.
Award Tour said:
Yes, I'm currently using a EVO, got it in June and will trade up once a new high end HTC Android (and maybe the WP7 TP7) phone hits Sprint.
Edit: This post illustrates the GPU gap between the EVO (Nexus One has the same GPU), it's competitors (PowerVR - Galaxy S shown here but Motorola uses a version that is inbetween the EVO and Galaxy S), and current HTC phones. Ask yourself if you want to get stuck with specs which are already WAY behind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I played with an EVO on launch day for a couple hours, wasn't sold on it but I think it's significantly better now with updates+2.2 (except its camcorder output sadly).
That link was cool, would have liked to see how it ran on Nexus also but it appears better GPUs are coming to high end smartphones for reasons beyond gaming..
Are the Sprint Taxes & Surcharges -not- laughable then? No complaints about Sprint? Thoughts on WiMax->2 vs LTE?
I'm surprised there isn't more on the following (wonder if I could happily wait without more news):
Gorgeous, mysterious, EVO-ish HTC device headed for Verizon
HTC Desire HD heading to Verizon Wireless?
http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/30/verizon-scoop-extravaganza-motorola-venus-with-portrait-qwerty/
Desire HD looks nice (hope they don't omit the kickstand for USA):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9WbNkWQGxU&NR=1
Next gen EVOs coming soon-before new year-roadmaps-carriers-must know?
I can't be the only person facing this choice...
I need to replace my aging HTC Touch HD (Blackstone) as my contract expires the end of this month.
I have the choice of the Omnia 7 and HTC Mozart.
I was originaly leaning towards the Mozart but having seen a few reviews now the Omnia seems to be a possibly better bet.
There are conflicting opinions of the camera on the Mozart, some say it's great others saying it's not as good as the Omnia's 5MP job.
The screen does look beautiful on the Omnia but I just don't know. Maybe people having the same dilema as me or those who have made the choice already could add their opinions to aid me and possibly others!
Many thanks!
I had the same dilemna yesterday. My Touch Pro 2 broke and my phone insurance offered to try and get a replacement or offer me the cash (£360!!).
I looked at the Mozart and the Omnia and have opted for the Mozart. Spec wise they seem very similar, but I think the Mozart seems a bit sturdier. It is arriving on Tuesday!
Definitely go for the Mozart. The Galaxy S left a bad taste in my mouth. HTC build quality > Samsung build quality.
I like the Samsung built phones but HTC built phones are also good.
I would just look at the specs / battery life / display / extras etc.
That way you can find one that suits your needs.
The Samsung looks better, especially because the display blends well into the phone frame.
However considering how text and contrast heavy the WP7 UI is, the Pentile pattern in AMOLED isn't exactly optimal for sharpness. At least I can make the color fringing on texts as well as the gritty Pentile pattern in images out rather well (I guess having not yet bad eyes helps). Right now I have a Nexus and can make things out, a larger display will worsen it for me personally.
So I'm making the compromise and go for a HTC device with SLCD (Trophy tho, not the Mozart).
Also, in the end, the hit on the battery will be generally less, seeing how browsing is a major activity, and that most websites have white or bright backgrounds, without AMOLEDs power draw in play. Samsung has a bigger battery tho.
I went for the Mozart as the Omnia's screen is a little too large for me. It's due for delivery Monday but I won't get it until Tuesday or Wednesday as I'm not at my Billing Address.
Thanks for the input.
One of the concerns I had was regarding the build quality of the Samsung model since it hasn't really been their strong point on previous handsets.
I read different opinions on the casing of the Omnia 7, mostly saying it is much improved.
I got the Omnia 7 from Orange yesterday build quality is good and the screen is awsome... Free on 18 month contract £35 per month.... So will have the option to upgrade again Jan 2012 (after 15 months)........ Had no crashes so far!!
ebzrascal said:
I got the Omnia 7 from Orange yesterday build quality is good and the screen is awsome... Free on 18 month contract £35 per month.... So will have the option to upgrade again Jan 2012 (after 15 months)........ Had no crashes so far!!
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Click to collapse
A question regarding the camera on the Omnia. Reviews have stated the flash is overpowering and not that useful. However I assume since it's LED it means that it can be turned on costantly for use on video recording and could double up as a torch.. something the Mozart with a xenon cannot do?
Thanks
I'm in exactly the same boat. I've been holding off upgrading for 4 months now to see how WP7 pans out. Would like to stay with Orange but this isn't a requirement.
I wanted to ask, has anyone actually tried the phones out before buying? Are the phones in the shops yet? I haven't got down to one yet (my second son was born yesterday, so I have a good excuse), so don't know. I don't think I'd want to commit to 18 months (at least) without trying the hardware out first.
And of course, there's always the HD2, sorry HD7 on O2. Like a mini-tablet, only fits in your pocket, unlike a Streak. I'll need to try this one out too.
Having spoken to Orange they aren't offering particularly good options with regards to renewing so I did look around. However what I was offered is still better than O2 will do so the HD7 was out for me.
The LG on Vodafone didn't really inspire me nor did the Trophy.
I wish the Venue Pro (Lightning was such a better name) was offered on a carrier.
I'm heading into town tomorrow so was going to ring up my local Orange shop to see if they had either handsets in stock so that i could have a play with them.
Another thing I was curious about that had been raised in other posts was if the Omnia had Gorilla glass as with the Galaxy. That would be a real plus point for me as i do worry about having such a big screen after managing to crack my Touch HD even though i treat my phones with great care.
mtb_baz said:
I'm in exactly the same boat. I've been holding off upgrading for 4 months now to see how WP7 pans out. Would like to stay with Orange but this isn't a requirement.
I wanted to ask, has anyone actually tried the phones out before buying? Are the phones in the shops yet? I haven't got down to one yet (my second son was born yesterday, so I have a good excuse), so don't know. I don't think I'd want to commit to 18 months (at least) without trying the hardware out first.
And of course, there's always the HD2, sorry HD7 on O2. Like a mini-tablet, only fits in your pocket, unlike a Streak. I'll need to try this one out too.
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Click to collapse
Been with Orange for what seems like a life time and like you I'm also out of contract and looking for a suitable replacement. I actually jumped ship and went to o2 (for the best part of a day). I got the HD7 for £45 a month on a 24 month contract which includes insurance. I had to pay £49 for the handset though but to be honest I really didn't feel comfortable leaving Orange were I was paying £35 a month (which includes insurance) for less minutes...
Again being totally honest, the HD7 is a beast of a phone. Compared to my Blackstone (which I've flashed the hell out of) the HD7 is just stunning. The large screen and handset quality easily gives you bragging rights ahead of any phone. It just seemed to work out of the box but strangely enough, something just didn't feel right. Maybe it was the big screen that I used to drool over. Maybe it was the fact I had to leave Orange. Maybe it was the fact that I couldn't flash my phone no more. I just don't know. Because of these reservations, I reluctantly returned the phone (still in shock I did this). I've decided to give WP7 another chance and I have ordered the Samsung Omnia7 on Orange, which is free of charge on a 18 month contract for £35 a month, 600min and unlimited internet. The phone arrives on Monday and I will certainly give it a good try. The reviews I’ve read are encouraging so I’m keeping an open mind. If I still have any doubts about the phone, I’ll return it and wait for the Desire HD on Orange.
For me the jury is still out for WP7. Don't get me wrong, it very user friendly and intuitive, however my only concern is that the operating system has been completely locked down like the Iphone. Simple tasks like syncing with outlook and mass storage access through explorer is a thing of the past. For me, it’s a change of mindset. I’m cool with this but old habits die hard.
Can I just say to everyone considering a trophy...
Please go and check it out with your Hands!
It's a piece of plastic junk after seeing it in a vodafone store... it's definitely the super budget WP7...
Also take note the screens on Trophy and Mozart are different, the Mozart's being 0.1" less but a much better quality display to my eye!
Just talk with Orange, they are doing great deals on the Mozart, please get that instead of a trophy!
Also if you want OLED, Omnia 7 has a metal wrapped back... it's quite solid, there's no creaks! It's sexy.
Yeah even HTC says the HTC Trophy is their bottom of the line "budget" WP7 device. Not saying it's bad, just that it's meant to be the budget phone.
Phone Titan said:
I like the Samsung built phones but HTC built phones are also good.
I would just look at the specs / battery life / display / extras etc.
That way you can find one that suits your needs.
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Click to collapse
I think he should only worry about exras, consiering all 1st gen phones are the bare minimum microsoft outlined
I mean, come on. Why didn't sammy put a hummingird in the omnia to atleast make it stand out a lil more?
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
A_Flying_Fox said:
I think he should only worry about exras, consiering all 1st gen phones are the bare minimum microsoft outlined
I mean, come on. Why didn't sammy put a hummingird in the omnia to atleast make it stand out a lil more?
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
Because MS told them not to, they're strict. And that's good for us.. we all know how Sammy screwed up galaxy s (maybe they'll fix it now - in november rls..NOT)
went into my local Orange shop today.
They don't have any Mozarts in and won't for a few days. They don't know when the Omnia is coming in and said only a limited number are available in the country.
So no new insights gained! I may just plump for the Omnia and if i don't like it i can return it for the Mozart.
What's the price difference between the Mozart and the Trophy... if its a budget wp7 phone?
Phone Titan said:
What's the price difference between the Mozart and the Trophy... if its a budget wp7 phone?
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Orange don't have the Trophy at the moment it's on Vodafone.
I have a leaflet here from Vodafone store:
FREE HTC 7 Trophy
- 300 minutes
- Unlimited standard UK Texts
- 500MB of UK Web access
£25 a month on a 24-month agreement
Same tariff on Orange
HTC Mozart
- 300 minutes
- Unlimited standard UK Texts
- 500MB UK Web Access
£25 a month on a 24-month agreement
Plus £100 handset cost.
(Or free on a more expensive tariff)
£100 over 2 years remember is £4.17 a month
I'm on the verge of ordering the Omnia I think.
Looking at reviews the camera picture quality seems better on the Omnia than the Mozart, likely due to Samsung having better camera hardware than HTC. I know the camera on my HD is attrocious.
It's so difficult to decide as there is so little between the launch hardware. I like HTC as a company as my Blackstone has been superb, just there is nothing stand out on the Mozart for me really...
Gutted that the Orange stores didn't have any in to play with though. In the past there have been clear choices, such as the Touch HD vs Xperia X1 was any easy decision for me.
I currently have a MT4G with tmobile (and I like the phone...)...but I have wanted a WP7 phone since they came out, but I cannot justify spending 300$ on one .... so I was thinking 'should I get an HD2 and put WP7 on it?' but then I felt that it would be buggy and such and I would like a smooth wp7 experience...
so my question is, what options are there for me (I cannot use an upgrade, I am stuck with tmobile so I need one compatible with them [I guess, right?])...?
Thanks for your advice and help...
erebusting said:
I currently have a MT4G with tmobile (and I like the phone...)...but I have wanted a WP7 phone since they came out, but I cannot justify spending 300$ on one .... so I was thinking 'should I get an HD2 and put WP7 on it?' but then I felt that it would be buggy and such and I would like a smooth wp7 experience...
so my question is, what options are there for me (I cannot use an upgrade, I am stuck with tmobile so I need one compatible with them [I guess, right?])...?
Thanks for your advice and help...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are better off staying with a real WP7 device. The HD2, as good a device as it is, can't provide the whole WP7 experience permanently. You'll have to perjure yourself to get a key from MS to use the main features of WP7. And then, after each update...if the updates actually start coming...you'll have to do it all over again and likely MS will nullify the ability to use their keys.
If you start buying apps with a fake WP7, you might lose them later on. Buy an HD7 from T-Mobile or go to AT&T and snag a Focus. You won't regret it once the updates start happening...if ever. WP7 is a super smooth, super clean experience.
erebusting said:
I currently have a MT4G with tmobile (and I like the phone...)...but I have wanted a WP7 phone since they came out, but I cannot justify spending 300$ on one .... so I was thinking 'should I get an HD2 and put WP7 on it?' but then I felt that it would be buggy and such and I would like a smooth wp7 experience...
so my question is, what options are there for me (I cannot use an upgrade, I am stuck with tmobile so I need one compatible with them [I guess, right?])...?
Thanks for your advice and help...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try other stores besides the retail store to see if their flexiable with the upgrade period. Wirefly, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Radio Shack, Etc.
You could ask for the factory unlock from T-Mobile. Unlock the MT4G, sell it on Craiglist and use the money to buy the HD7.
You can also go on a payment plan with them and give them $15 bucks a month until you have the money to pay for a new phone.
I'm doing that right now with my HD7, but only because I have the sneaking suspicion some new phones are going to come out to blow the current crop out of the water.
lekki said:
You could ask for the factory unlock from T-Mobile. Unlock the MT4G, sell it on Craiglist and use the money to buy the HD7.
You can also go on a payment plan with them and give them $15 bucks a month until you have the money to pay for a new phone.
I'm doing that right now with my HD7, but only because I have the sneaking suspicion some new phones are going to come out to blow the current crop out of the water.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which is exactly why I'm saving money for one of them. These current gen phones will be "Kin'd" before too long and the good hardware will move it.
erebusting said:
I currently have a MT4G with tmobile (and I like the phone...)...but I have wanted a WP7 phone since they came out, but I cannot justify spending 300$ on one .... so I was thinking 'should I get an HD2 and put WP7 on it?' but then I felt that it would be buggy and such and I would like a smooth wp7 experience...
so my question is, what options are there for me (I cannot use an upgrade, I am stuck with tmobile so I need one compatible with them [I guess, right?])...?
Thanks for your advice and help...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sell your MT4g on ebay and buy the HD7 there also. Even a used MT4g is only a little cheaper than a new HD7. A lot of people are willing to trade on craigslist also.
I really don't know why you guys complain that much. In Brazil I just bought a WP7 (unsupported here yet). And I paid R$ 1.400,00. That is something about U$ 850,00.
My iPhone 4 I've paid R$ 1.800,00. Or U$ 1.125,00.
And yes, If i were you, I would buy a WP7 in a blink.
mikeeam said:
I really don't know why you guys complain that much. In Brazil I just bought a WP7 (unsupported here yet). And I paid R$ 1.400,00. That is something about U$ 850,00.
My iPhone 4 I've paid R$ 1.800,00. Or U$ 1.125,00.
And yes, If i were you, I would buy a WP7 in a blink.
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Click to collapse
Well you have to understand, there ARE differences in economy so over here we have different options on pricing....doesn't mean that just because it costs wayy more in other locations that we should be buying them like crazy over here.... we have to think about things like that (at least I do, especially since I am not rich [yet ])...
So I am thinking of possibly getting a samsung focus (but the 3g would not work with tmobile...right?)...or the HD7... but like 'likki' said, phones are continuously upgrading so saving 15-20$ extra a month sounds pretty practical because by the time it is saved up I may not even want to get another phone (haha) or there will be better options out there....
Have you ever tried out a HD7? I think it is too big. The Trophy 7 have a perfect size screen. Not too big, nor too small.
Maybe you should try. I wouldn't buy a Samsung because of the update issues (yeah, they may have fixed, still, it was the only one with problem. I wouldn't risk).
Don't worry about the next season of WP7 handsets. Probably they don't need anything beyond our 1 GHz processor. Not for now. And I think this should last for 2 years of software updates until they need to update the hardware too.
I don't know about US 3G network. But, at least here, my Trophy works with every carrier.
And I liked the "yet" hahahah. That's the spirit! Hell yeah!
any advice? should I get an htc surround and be happy with Edge on tmobile or something? (since it may be cheaper than an HD7 ? idk)
Try ebay...
I got my HTC Surround for 180.00
It looks brand new although it had no box and not original charger. Thing works like a champ. My contract actually is up for renewal in May but i decided not to wait as i could resell it if i did not like it. I'm definately not reselling it. It's awesome!
LG Quantums all over Ebay for 180-200 dollars and they're in my opinion the third best US released device
Dell Venue Pro>Focus>Quantum
I want to like HTC's devices but their battery life is just terrible and the Surround feels like a gag phone.
Surround is pretty terrible all around. If you like big screens and you're on T-Mobile, then you have one really good choice and one decent choice.
TBQH, WP7 is so Cloud dependent that I would not want to be stuck on Edge all the time.
I can't even fathom what that experience would be like.
Edge is for Blackberries, Eseries, and Feature phones...
Ok so I have the opportunity to get the dvp or hd7 for the same price...which one should I get ? The dvp doesnt seem to have as much action in the forum ...it has less ram and no htc apps , plus its a lil bulkier....the screen size doesnt bug me becauase they are similar...
Any ideas please
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA Premium App
The DVP's screen is much better. The Speakers are better. The Camera is worse. It has a Physical keybaord (quite a nice one). It sitll has 512 RAM which is more than good enough. It comes in a 16 GB variant and if you're feeling Giddy you can upgrade the storage becasue it has an accessible SD Card Slot.
It tends to have better performance than the HTC phones, as well. The build quality is noticeably better.
There is no such thing as a BB Bold 9800, BTW (that's the Torch). Which Blackberry are you actually selling, asd is it a T-Mobile Branded BB?
Personally, if I was faced with that choice, I'd get the Dell.
Focus... Ignore update hocus pocus ... Its the and least expensive phone
Sent from my SGH-i917 using Board Express
Download Launcher 7 for your mt4g.
Makes your android look like a w7 phone lol.
Yes I know it wont transform your phone into a full fledge w7 phone but its a good alternative and its free.
Sent from my DROID2 GLOBAL using XDA App
DVP over HD7 any day... When you hold both of them you can just tell which one is better at a glance or with use... better performance, better screen, they actually have the same amount of ram, it's just generally one hell of a step up from the HD7 to the DVP.
N8ter said:
The DVP's screen is much better. The Speakers are better. The Camera is worse. It has a Physical keybaord (quite a nice one). It sitll has 512 RAM which is more than good enough. It comes in a 16 GB variant and if you're feeling Giddy you can upgrade the storage becasue it has an accessible SD Card Slot.
It tends to have better performance than the HTC phones, as well. The build quality is noticeably better.
There is no such thing as a BB Bold 9800, BTW (that's the Torch). Which Blackberry are you actually selling, asd is it a T-Mobile Branded BB?
Personally, if I was faced with that choice, I'd get the Dell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for noticing that about my sig...lol...I will change it when I get around to it though...haha
The Robot Cow said:
Download Launcher 7 for your mt4g.
Makes your android look like a w7 phone lol.
Yes I know it wont transform your phone into a full fledge w7 phone but its a good alternative and its free.
Sent from my DROID2 GLOBAL using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, I tried it and it is nice -although I am more interested in the games on WP7... =) ...too bad they cant be emulated (yet... ?)
z33dev33l said:
DVP over HD7 any day... When you hold both of them you can just tell which one is better at a glance or with use... better performance, better screen, they actually have the same amount of ram, it's just generally one hell of a step up from the HD7 to the DVP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I did not notice that they had the same amount of ram...some review(s) I read/watched said that it had 256? idk...
thanks for all of the advice it is really helpful...
(damn, why do all the TMobile WP7 devices have to be the ones at $300 and up...??? it is not that worth it to spend even 200 on a phone to just use edge..-i think)
its a tough decision, considering the prices and then considering the functionality / quality as well.... (although it sucks that the current wp7 devices are not very much up to par with these newer phones....namely the 'no FFC' thing bugs me)
I currently have the HTC Surround, and I have had no complaints with it. I do not understand why everyone is hating it. It has amazing speakers, feels very sturdy, 16 glorious gb's of memory, and has the same exact os as all the others. And some may say that the LCD screen is not as brilliant as the focus's AMOLED screen. But I personally like the screen.
In the end, it is up to your personal preferences.