[Q] Interested in getting a tablet - Droid Incredible Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I know this is off topic but figured I would ask the community so thanks in advance.
I am interested in getting a tablet (specifically the xoom) but am hesitant to pull the trigger as I don't want to buy it only to have something much better come out shortly thereafter. Now I realize that technology is ever changing but in your opinion..Is it worth getting one now or do you see something on the horizon that would make you wait?
Again, Thanks for your input.

Depends what you want really just like smartphones.
Do you want Cellular data?
3G or 4G?
if yes to the cellular data plan are you only interested in VZW?
There are other tablets on other carriers that will be coming out that are just as good as the Xoom and might be cheaper, but if you want VZW and you want 4G LTE get the Xoom,
If you want just WiFi, thats a whole other ball game.

I think if I was getting one I would wait for the HP TouchPad to come out. The price of the Xoom is going to come down as well as the iPad 2 being released in two weeks. Another thing farther in the future is the tegra 3, which will be in tablets that will launch this fall. Tegra 3 has a quad core CPU, and supposedly better battery life.

haha I didn't wait... I've got an Archos 101. I like it as an e-reader and i play some games/browse the web but the specs aren't amazing. I spend more time on my phone honestly. it's good to have around when I'm at school as a reader or quick way to browse the web. Plus they're cheap.

Related

How Long Do You Plan To Keep It?

How long do you guys plan to keep your Galaxy Nexus? I plan to keep it for 2 years at the least, I see no phone that could potentially be released in the future that I would want I don't need/want quad core or 3D displays, i don't see mobile gaming even fully utilizing the power of current processors in the near future.
I don't know to be honest with you. So far I am greatly satisfied with this little monster, but at the same time I have used many android devices before (10+). But this may be the game changer, I probably will keep it for a while
My line is eligible for an upgrade on January 17, 2012, I am guessing I will not upgrade until there is a killer quad core perfectly spec'd phone, or some revolutionary unforseen phone that we don't know about. No rush now.
If there is another Nexus on Verizon, that'd be my upgrade. I'm trying not to switch off my mothers account, I like the unlimited.
Will sell for the Galaxy S3!
GS3 may be my next candy
I'll keep it until the next nexus comes out.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
I'm due an upgrade in Nov/Dec next year, I may consider whatever's good then if it has 3D and NFC but it depends if a new major upgrade to Android OS is due, if it is I will wait for the next Nexus as I'm fed up of being behind with the OS which is why I went for the GN in the 1st place.
mmace said:
I'm due an upgrade in Nov/Dec next year, I may consider whatever's good then if it has 3D and NFC but it depends if a new major upgrade to Android OS is due, if it is I will wait for the next Nexus as I'm fed up of being behind with the OS which is why I went for the GN in the 1st place.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there will be another major upgrade to Android this time next year. That's how its going down.
I'll get mine with my new contract next month. I'll probably keep it beyond the expiry of that contract. I'm planning on keeping my current phone as long as it lasts, too.
More devices to test on. Can't go wrong with that!
I will keep mine until the next Nexus comes out.
Most likely when the next Nexus comes out, or if Samsung release another killer Galaxy phone (Probably not the GS3, too soon and I've spent too much money on the GNex).
I think out of all the android phones out now the nexus more than likely has the longest 'shelf life' due to the fact that google will keep on updating it for as long as they can until the next iteration of their OS is simply too big to run on the phone.
I usually but a new phone knowing It's only for 1-2 years.
This time it was different, I sold my 3 months old SGS2 and got Galaxy Nexus for it's higher resolution display (and I love this phone just like SGS2).
When getting GN, I already knew I will be replacing it with SGS3, hopefully sometime next year. Unless the specs do not justify the upgrade. GN is great and not lacking in games department, I mean Dead Space runs fine. But it probably is maxing out our GPU. I know sooner or later we will see a great game that will not run on our phone, something that only runs on Tegra3 and up.
I'd also like to see similar solution in SGS3, that uses 1 extra CPU core for background jobs, like they did on Tegra3. So you get more processing power AND better battery life at the same time. I wouldn't care if it's Tegra3 or Samsung CPU as long as it has that feature and has decent (future-proof) GPU. But seeing how nVidia is progressing in mobile gaming department (and owning desktop nvidia GTX480 monster), I tend to want TegraX in my future phones.
Probably until the next Nexus devices comes out if it comes to T-Mobile so I can renew my contract with that.
Loving the Galaxy Nexus so far though!
Until the galaxy s3 comes out.....
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
I'm hoping to keep mine for at least 2 years. Although, I am eligible for an upgrade with AT&T (and have been for the past 3 years).
I kept my iPhone 3G for 3 years and my current Nexus One for ~1.7 years...
I agree with the OP that the specs on this phone can keep you going for a long time. I have at&t, however, and I am sure I will be drawn away by a phone that has LTE on at&t's network. (But first they need to giver southern California some LTE love) When that happens this phone will stay in the mix as a T-Mobile Hotspot when needed and a travel to other countries phone. The penta band radio on the GSM model is the whole reason I bought the GN. I don't see any of the carriers in the States putting out a phone in the future with a competitors frequencies, so this will stay in the phone quiver long after it is replaced.
I'm keeping my Galaxy Nexus until the next Nexus or GSIII comes out on Verizon. Too bad Verizon didn't get a GSII. I would have preferred to have my Sprint GSII on Verizon though, that phone is incredible.
Honestly, I'll probably keep mine until the iPhone 5 is released. I know most people on XDA cringe at that thought but I already miss a bunch of my iPhone apps as well as the silky smoothness of iOS but I simply got bored with it. If the iPhone 5 has a sleek new design and some updates to the OS (which are expected), I see myself going back.

Thinking of upgrading to GSM Nexus from iPhone 4s. Some input..

I have been a longtime iPhone and Android user and currently I am using the iPhone 4s. It's a great phone, but I tend to miss Android and all that it offers.
Here is my question.. Does anyone think $690 for the GSM Nexus is worth it? I have been going back and forth on it and I think I would really like it, however I can never seem to keep an Android phone because nothing is really new with it.
Here is an example. I had the Verizon Thunderbolt, it was a nice phone, fast and really allowed Android to shine. I then saw the T-Mobile Sensation come out and it was a dual core with nice specs. Another really nice phone. But again, noting super new with Android. Not to mention T-Moble's network blows around here.
I hoped to ATT and I love the coverage and have tried the iPhone 4, 4s (current) and Skyrocket.
So, will Android 4 on the Nexus be new and improved enough to make the switch?
I should pay attention, I see the subsidized Verizon phone still is $300. Maybe $600+ is an ok price.
Honestly I only think paying full price for the GSM Nexus is worth it if you get the $30 Walmart plan on T-Mobile.
I personally have been using my GNex for about a month now and I bought it from one of the on-line retailers (paid $750BTW) and I would do it again in a heart beat. I personally have TMoUSA and the service is good in my area, everyone's mileage will vary. I had the iPhone and have not looked back after going with android
"Worth it" is completely arbitrary based on the person.
For me, it would be worth it. I hate iOS and all it stands for. I also don't being treated like a criminal for wanting root. I also think the iOS theme is butt-ugly.
I'm running pre-alphas of CM9 and they are working flawlessly. This bodes well for the future of the device.
Depends on your budget . I don't think you'll see too much of a difference in terms of performance though... and the GPU isn't that great compared to the iPhone. If you want more input, I suggest you using the search option in this forum and search something along the lines of Galaxy Nexus vs iPhone 4s
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
The Galaxy Nexus is a really good phone, IMO the best Android out there (but then I'd never again buy a non-Google phone -- these are locked worse than the iPhone).
I love the big screen (came to it from a Nexus S) and ICS is a big improvement in terms of UI.
Having said that, the iPhone 4S still offers a smoother and more consistent user experience, IMO.
mycomputerisjunk said:
I should pay attention, I see the subsidized Verizon phone still is $300. Maybe $600+ is an ok price.
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Click to collapse
You can get an unlocked 16gb Galaxy Nexus from negri electronics for about $625 shipped nowadays.
No one can tell you how "worth it" it is. Everyone has different qualifications. I'd be inclined to say that if you're going to be staying w/ AT&T and paying through the nose for service, its harder to swallow the ~$625 for an unlocked device.
It becomes more worth it when you go to a prepaid plan and cut your service cost in half every month.
So I would definitely recommend you walk into a Verizon store so you can play with it in person and make your assessment on whether or not you think Android 4 is good enough to justify your payment for the unlocked device. Obviously don't pay attention to the network speeds or anything as you'll be using on AT&T, but its a good idea to see it in person first.
mycomputerisjunk said:
Does anyone think $690 for the GSM Nexus is worth it?
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Click to collapse
I paid $650 ($689 after tax)for a non-subsidized CDMA so I think so.
well coming from the SGS II(epic 4g touch)...........I LOVE THIS PHONE!!!....i got the CDMA(32gb) version with Verizon. Android 4.0 is a HUGE step from gingerbread, you'll love it. I would recommend going with Verizon though
Ye love it too, and the experience is definitely more changed than ever from 2.x to 4.0(eg. better than ever), so by those means, yes it's worth it.
However with an iphone 4s i would probably wait another year before upgrading.
You could watch Swappa if you're interested in trying to save a few hundred and go lightly used. There isn't much on there now, but may be more in the coming months. Beware of people maybe trying to unload their phones due to signal issues (CDMA at least). I've collected very mixed data on CDMA signal issues (I can't speak for GSM). Many people report 0 problems, and some report chronic problems even after phone swaps. I've seen some fixed after a swap, and in my case I had a tech swap my SIM card which helped a lot, and then updating to 4.03 radios *hopefully* fixed the problem.
Assuming my signal issues are fixed now and don't return, this phone is by far the best I've ever owned. A major jump forward coming from a Droid Incredible. CM9 is also amazing.
http://swappa.com/search?q=galaxy+nexus
Apples and oranges.. One is a fancy phone that runs apps, the other is a mini computer.
If you like customizing your phone past wallpapers and folders then it should be a clear and obvious answer
Sent from my Google phone
I mean...
dude i mean i got the gnex the day it came out and it was complete garbage i hated it it sucked so bad i lit it on fire..i mean i come from a rich background so i can afford to do those kinda things..
jk im not queer, but anyways i have the gnex and i love it. i hate ios and apple entirely and when i see all these kids at my school with iphones i just get heated. anyways..if you have the money to use on a gsm version by all means do so
mycomputerisjunk said:
I have been a longtime iPhone and Android user and currently I am using the iPhone 4s. It's a great phone, but I tend to miss Android and all that it offers.
Here is my question.. Does anyone think $690 for the GSM Nexus is worth it? I have been going back and forth on it and I think I would really like it, however I can never seem to keep an Android phone because nothing is really new with it.
Here is an example. I had the Verizon Thunderbolt, it was a nice phone, fast and really allowed Android to shine. I then saw the T-Mobile Sensation come out and it was a dual core with nice specs. Another really nice phone. But again, noting super new with Android. Not to mention T-Moble's network blows around here.
I hoped to ATT and I love the coverage and have tried the iPhone 4, 4s (current) and Skyrocket.
So, will Android 4 on the Nexus be new and improved enough to make the switch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes...........
The trouble with asking this kind of question in a galaxy nexus forum is your going to get a very biast opinion as everyone here, well mostly everyone here owns one and android users love android and apple love apple products.
Really the best advice is go and use one in a store and make up your own mind and of course watch some youtube videos about ics and gnex vs iPhone 4s. Then you be armed with the knowledge to make the right decisiin for you and your needs.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
I'd suggest going to your local Verizon store and play around with their Galaxy Nexus demo for a bit. I waited and cried about this phone not being released then when it finally was and I picked up I found myself questioning why and what about the phone was I going so crazy for and at the moment I'm a little regretful for not playing with the phone first and just ordering it online.
It's a nice phone and I know I'm a picky person but there was imo more bad than good and the stuff I think is bad may not necessarily be bad but just not as good as it should or could have been for the price and usually when I upgrade, which is once every few years when Verizon grants me a discount, I like to get the best I can get to last me those few years and the Galaxy Nexus isn't the best for me.
To be specific on the things I personally didn't care for were the camera, the battery life which is common in 4G phones but was a little worse in this phone than other 4G phones I've used. The screen was a let down, the colors and grainy banding in low light levels just looked horrible and the whole 4.65" largest screen thing was misleading to me as you hardly ever use the full screen because of the softkeys and worst of all for me was no USB Mass Storage which I used allot in my previous phone but that last one was my fault for not researching the phone more thoroughly prior to purchase.
I've always been an android user so I can't say anything bad about iOS devices although I have and use an iPad 2 and iPod touch 4 I can't imagine them being any worse as a phone.
If you can wait until the Samsung Galaxy S3, it's a beast. IMO, the Galaxy Nexus is already an outdated phone, and it will be more apparent when new phones start rolling out ICS.
Of course, there's a slew of other phones coming out in the next few months, so you'll have lots of options. That's just my opinion.
Only if you promise not to make threads about multi tasking or battery life if you end up not liking it. Which I am very sure you will like it.
Sent from my Nexus in Texas.
I've never owned an iPhone so maybe I'm not qualified to give my opinion, but I have handled various iPhones through the years. My buddy who's owned a couple summed it up best. The iPhone is a beautiful phone with an environment where everything "works." It's a device with a very closed, simple OS but amazing apps, where android is a very powerful, open (if you get something from the nexus line anyway) OS with decent apps. The apps make iPhone and the OS make Android.
If you crave freedom and are a power user, this is the phone for you. I've only owned android devices but I think apple makes a good phone. The problem lies in that if you want it do something that apple hasn't envisioned for the phone, then you are out of luck. Also, the iPhone 4 and up have great screens... but having owned 4inch screen and up phones for the last 2 years, it's pretty much impossible for me personally to go down to something under 4 inches. The thing just feels utterly tiny and limited with that little screen real estate.
As an aside, where Android has caught up with the UI on ICS, they really need to step up the game with their tablets. This is an area the iPad has every Android tablet beat, not even including the horsepower under the hood... device layout! I'm talking about the 4:3 format the iPad uses. Every powerful android tablet is in 16:9, and if you aren't watching movies it's a terrible aspect ratio. It's harder to hold and you give up a lot of usable area in portrait and in landscape. It works for computers with a dedicated keyboard and mouse, but on a huge touchscreen device, it's just awkward.
Edit: Biggest reason I will never own an iPhone is iTunes. Hate the program... huge bloatware on the computer and Apple forces you to use it if you want any sync with your computer. iCloud alleviates it somewhat, but it's just another way to trap you into the Apple ecosystem.

Is the GNEXUS worht buying if you have a GS2

Hi im thinking of getting the Galaxy Nexus after having SGS2 and then htc one x (wich i sold due to a lot hardware problems) i dont know what to get and i think the galaxy nexus would be a decent phone but im woried is it better than the SGS2 if not than this phone is not for me because i got tiered of S2 another question is how is gaming and watching hd mkv movies on this phone?And what do you say should i get it (p.s i hate the SGS3's design and i dont want to spend that much money for what i think is not a big upgrade just a quad core and better screen)
Hardware specs wise, sgs2 is slightly better
Galaxy nexus for more developer support, pure Google experience w/o bloatware, faster OS updates
Personally I prefer the nexus
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
my sister has gs2 and i've the gnexus..
the differents are little but important, first of all the different resolutions and the different time to update.. i have ics since a week before christmas 2011 and my sister installed it 2 weeks ago, and now i've jelly bean xD
if you find to sell your gs2 at a nice € and you find the gnexus in a nice discount you can do it
think its a overall good phone how is the gaming on this phone like N.O.V.A 3 or Modern combar 3 and watching mkv movies
Please refer to the comparisons post in the general section.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1642801
before responding, I did check the comparison thread, didn't see much on the S2 V nexus directly, TONS of S3.... and I'll bring up some other considerations that aren't really "phone" specific for the OP to think about ....
To the OP, it is hard to answer your question, you ask "is it worth it .....", but, we don't know what YOUR definition of "worth it" is.
You can go to other threads, gsmarena, etc., and see the phone spec differences.
Just a couple things that might be a little subtle from just looking at the specs .....
The S2 has faster HPSA, 42 MBS theoretical VS 21 on the Gnexus. Most PHONES can't take advantage of that speed by themselves (or users don't). It makes a difference for me, as I hotspot and run a computer off of my tmobile connection. You do need to be in a tmo 42 mbs area for this to be useful, however, so, if you're not, this feature might not be "worth it" for you.
PENTABAND? What provider do you use, are you looking to do contracts? Straight Talk (att and tmobile) and tmobile itself, offer great pay per month contracts (plenty of posts on the ST $45 unlimited everything plans). The S2 is faster ON TMOBILE, but, while it can run on ATT for voice, data is very slow. The nexus is fast on both ATT and Tmobile.
Pentaband is a good feature if you are looking to switch between att and tmo (maybe one gets better reception when you're at school, the other when you're at home ?).
A THOUGHT HERE is the ATT S2 SKYROCKET, apparently, it runs ATT fast natively, AND, can be flashed to the Tmo version (Tmo S2 doesn't have the same radio, so doesn't work the other way)
As others have mentioned, more developer support for the GN, less for the S2, but, ... the S2 has lots of good roms too.
SD CARD - is "WORTH" it to me. I am in hotels a lot, have a large collection of blu ray DVDs I've converted using DVD Catalyst, and have many on micro SD cards ... and I can use my phone as a movie player if the hotel (or if I go to a friends house) TV has HDMI.
The built in memory on the GN is not so small that its a big hinderance, I can still fit a movie or two and hundreds of hours of songs, so, long as you plan you're fine ... removeable SD allows you to bring your entire song collection and dozens of movies.
That's useful for me, might not be "worth it" for you.
Both are great phones, FOR ME, the Nexus is much more versitile if you're looking to maximize pay as you go plans and carrier useage, the S2 if you are looking for pure data speed and SD is a little stronger.
There are other features of the phones that might be "worth it" to you, those are the big ones I've been thinking / testing.
Good luck with your choice!
I already have the s2 so im going to think about it one more time for me it seems like a god mid upper range phone altough the htc one s also looks tempting
Get a comment in before the lock guys...
Sent from my GT-P7310 using Tapatalk 2
Didn't read this forum before posting, but YES it is worth it. ESPECIALLY with JellyBean ready for action.
Yes and No
Yes and no. From a community standpoint, yes. The Galaxy Nexus is THE developers phone. However, it is likely that Google will announce their next Nexus phone in November - December. This phone will not only give the pure android experience, but also outweigh the Galaxy Nexus in terms of specs. I think the Galaxy Nexus has a good 6 - 8 months until it becomes outdated.
lfnunley said:
Yes and no. From a community standpoint, yes. The Galaxy Nexus is THE developers phone. However, it is likely that Google will announce their next Nexus phone in November - December. This phone will not only give the pure android experience, but also outweigh the Galaxy Nexus in terms of specs. I think the Galaxy Nexus has a good 6 - 8 months until it becomes outdated.
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Click to collapse
Yeah I agree. I mean Google haven't really been impressive on specs. I mean the Nexus One was amazing. The Nexus S came out and still amazing.
Then the Galaxy Nexus Came out with OK specs upgrade.
To me this seems like the pass that apple takes on their iPhones.
So I EXPECT Google to make a very dramatic upgrade in Design and Specs and this time set the Standards.
Not a few standards.
What are your priorities in a phone?
If you always want the latest and greatest hardware, GS2
If you want the perfect blend of latest tech & reliability without having to install a custom ROM, Gnex
I've used the GS2, sometimes it acts up, but it's mostly a good phone. The gnex, it's very reliable.
The GS2... It wasn't until this year that Skype officially supported video chat on the GS2. Stuff like that just turns me off from the GS2 & GS3. They always need 6 months from release to actually mature past their older brothers.
Like everyone else is mentioning, the Galaxy Nexus is a great device if you plan on fully utilizing the "Nexus" part of the name.

[Q] What should I buy?: Galaxy Nexus/Nexus 7 or Asus Padfone?

Padfone or G-Nexus-7 combination
I've been using a SIM-free (unlocked and rooted) Motorola Atrix 4G with the lapdock everyday as my "daily-driver" phone/laptop solution since April of last year. I used the webtop, and later on, a modded version of Gentoo with Google Docs and Libre Office to get things done. I work at a university, so if I need something other than regular office software, I just use one of the hundreds of workstations I have access to on our campuses-- I've never experienced the so-called limitations that the lapdock+phone combo presents, and the fact that I ride very crowded trains in Tokyo precludes me from bringing my $1500+ laptop around everyday.
So when the Asus Padfone came out, I was sure that this would be my upgrade path! A phone that goes into a tablet that clips onto a keyboard. Brilliant! But hang on-- now there's the Nexus 7... Pure Google, and OPEN... That plus a Galaxy-Nexus... hmmmmm.... Could that also do the trick??
Well, there's always "let's wait and see a few more months..." But the obvious happened a week ago-- my Atrix's screen gave up the ghost... Sure I can plug it into HDMI, and use the lapdock just fine, but I can't use it as a phone... GRRRR!! Oh, and check out my location to the left-- I live in JAPAN, but I travel a lot, and go back to the US every year; actually, I'm going home in a week for a month!! So I NEED a phone either just before I go, or when I get there....
REQUIREMENTS:
- SIM Free (unlocked): I travel. A lot. Internationally. I needs my unlock!
- Multi-band support: Japan uses 2100MHz for HSPA+, and so does most of Asia. The US is 850, 1900, 1700... I'd like to find a phone that supports both of these... The Padfone will only support the Asian frequency, but nothing in the States-- I'd be stuck on 2G back home for a month... I can tolerate that though because I'll at least have AT&T hotspot support. The G-Nexus of course has a PENTABAND 3G radio (why the F don't other phones <other than the iPhone> have this same radio?!) so it'll work with whatever network I throw at it.
- Open bootloader/Rooted: One of the things I really enjoyed about my Atrix was being able to tweak tweak tweak. The Nexus devices don't need an explanation here-- They're designed to root and tweak. The Padfone can be rooted now--but it's bootloader is locked... But with the exotic tweaks made to get the tablet and phone UI to work, I doubt I'd use a custom ROM anyhow.
- Tablet/Phone combo: I got spoiled by my Atrix. Being able to use a physical keyboard to respond to an incoming text message is really habit-forming. Especially if I need to type it in Japanese. Of course the Padfone would win here... Not sure if there's an app that lets you see the text and MMSs on a phone through a tablet though. The other obvious thing here is that the Padphone *IS* the tablet, once docked into the PadStation. No tethering, no separate data plan, no hotspot needed. The G-Nexus-7 combo would see me tethering the G-Nex to the Nex-7. Is there a simple app that can make an on-demand data connection between the two happen at will?
- Updates: This is what pissed me off about Motorola. The OG Atrix's Tegra 2 processor can more than handle ICS, but here it is almost 6 months later, and nothing. Luckily I can get Kang builds, but certain things just don't work for me--for example Chrome crashes ALL the time. Camera sucks, etc. Hence, I'm over using another Moto device. Obviously the Nexus duo will ALWAYS get the latest and greatest; no-brainer there. Asus? The TF series got their updates to ICS within the first 3 months IIRC. Since Jelly Bean is just a point update, perhaps the Padfone will see an update in the fall sometime--I can live with that.
- Ease of use: Not the OS, but the physical pieces... The G-Nex-7 combo is easy in the way that both are able to use the same charger (micro USB). Padfone just nests together. I like how the Padfone keyboard has USB ports and an SD card slot... Not to mentin BATTERIES galore. It's hard as hell trying to find a place to charge my phone all the time, and sometimes I'd just use the Moto's lapdock as a battery charger!
- Price: this is the kicker... The Galaxy Nexus/ Nexus 7 Combo will come out to less than US$600 when bought from the Google store. Even buying from a grey-market distributor in Taiwan, I can't buy the Padfone/PadStation/Keyboard combo for less that US$1000... I have barely that much to spend though.
Friends, I need some help deciding! Here are my pros and cons for each device as it stands today. I'm posting this in the Padfone, Galaxy Nexus, Nexus 7, and my old Motorola Atrix forums as well. I want some good honest and thoughtful opinions-- no haterism, flaming, or retardedness please. This is an extremely important purchase for me, and needs to be done ASAP.
As always, thank you so much for your opinions!
$200 for the N7 + $350 for the GNex is way better than the almost a thousand for the Pad phone with tablet dock + keyboard dock. (You can buy a laptop with the difference) The main advantage of the Padfone is the monster battery and you don't need to carry 2 devices, but everything else is just "meh"
Review from the Verge:
The PadFone nails the idea, but misses on the execution to the point where it feels more like a tech demo than a viable product. There are enough performance issues and app interface problems that I began to avoid using the PadFone as a tablet, and even the phone itself has some underwhelming specs for a supposedly high-end device. I want badly to be able to ditch my laptop, set up a dock at work and a tablet at home, and just carry my phone everywhere knowing I can get done whatever needs doing. The PadFone hints that we're not far from that day, but proves conclusively that it's not here yet.
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Click to collapse
In the end though, it's really up to you. If you miss the all-in-one option of the Atrix, maybe it's worth it. If you can live without it, GNex + N7 is the best option
The gnexus or the nexus 7 should be the best option . Although it might not be the perfect solution for your requirements.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
harveydent said:
$200 for the N7 + $350 for the GNex is way better than the almost a thousand for the Pad phone with tablet dock + keyboard dock. (You can buy a laptop with the difference) The main advantage of the Padfone is the monster battery and you don't need to carry 2 devices, but everything else is just "meh"
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Click to collapse
True, I've seen this too. thanx.
So what are some ways I can make the tablet/phone combo a "cohesive" solution? For example, someone showed me a way to use SMS on the tablet via a software link to the phone... (of course I also use Google Voice in the US too, so there's that)
But what about being able to tether the two together? Not by a hotspot, but some sort of "on-demand" tethering? For example, I'd rather use the big screen of the tablet when navigating maps, but there's no cellular connection. Is there an app that would have the two connected via low-power bluetooth all the time, then when the tablet needs an internet connection to do something, it can send a signal to the phone and create a hot-spot (or since these are 2 jellybean devices, wifi-direct link) on demand?
For $1000 the Asus parade is a no go. For $600 it would probably be a nice experiment. For $600 I am sure the nexus x2 would inconveniently meet your needs and wants and somebody will come out with a phone/tablet case combo to wirelessly tether the nexus combo into an interchangeable video/keyboard combo. Would be cool for the geek factor too. Is it a keyboard or a monitor. You decide. :what:
butter and jelly please...
^^ Now that would be impressive ^^
I could just "make" this happen actually- All I'd need is a smallish keyboard... hmmm....
starrwulfe said:
^^ Now that would be impressive ^^
I could just "make" this happen actually- All I'd need is a smallish keyboard... hmmm....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe the inventor/craftsman in you could make a homemade version that would make any fruit logo devotee cringe at your awesomeness. No patents included.
butter and jelly please...
I love this dilemmas. I have had the Droid Bionic, HTC phone and Motorola phones and I have never been happier than with my Galaxy Nexus. Stock is the way to go. The Nexus 7 is a tablet and not a phone though. So if your looking for a phone. I would say, go with the Galaxy Nexus. There is a reason Apple is trying to stop Google from selling it.
Mike @ Guy4Tech.com
Galaxy nexus
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Gnexus + iPad 2
bash me all you want, but android tablet apps suck and that's all that matters.
I would say the Gnex/Nexus 7.
The dev community on the Nexus devices is just insane. Plus, because it is a nexus device, it gets updates the fastest. Also, seeing this : http://www.theverge.com/2012/6/6/3064317/asus-padfone-review , I honestly wouldn't get a padfone.
No bashing here man. That's a valid setup too. As long as I can tether to the G-nex for data out in the wild, that's all that matters. Not to mention, half the people I know are on iSomething, so I can IM them thru imessenger and facetime.Need to check Wi-Fi only prices though. No need for 2 data bills.
Sent from my SBM005SH using xda app-developers app
starrwulfe said:
No bashing here man. That's a valid setup too. As long as I can tether to the G-nex for data out in the wild, that's all that matters. Not to mention, half the people I know are on iSomething, so I can IM them thru imessenger and facetime.Need to check Wi-Fi only prices though. No need for 2 data bills.
Sent from my SBM005SH using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
G-nex seems the best to meet your requirement. You can always tether it to either your Nex-7 or iPad2 depending upon which one meets you needs (app wise).
I am using G-nex on SBM and wi-fi only iPad2. The G-nex is almost always in hotspot mode. Ofcourse you might want to invest 2-3k yen in a good external battery.
^^Ahh, a fellow Softbank user who doesn't use a Softbank phone!^^
I know if I get the G-nex, I'd be getting the 3800mAh battery as well from Seidio. What external battery do you recommend? Of course we live in the land of Akihabara, Yodobashi Camera, and more-- but this Zagg Sparq seems like the ticket to me... Can charge both tablet and phone at the same time, and it's only $50 right now too! Hmm...
Since you're doing the same thing I want to do, what is your experience like with battery and speeds? Also have you been able to use Softbank's WiFi spots with the iPad?
starrwulfe said:
^^Ahh, a fellow Softbank user who doesn't use a Softbank phone!^^
I know if I get the G-nex, I'd be getting the 3800mAh battery as well from Seidio. What external battery do you recommend? Of course we live in the land of Akihabara, Yodobashi Camera, and more-- but this Zagg Sparq seems like the ticket to me... Can charge both tablet and phone at the same time, and it's only $50 right now too! Hmm...
Since you're doing the same thing I want to do, what is your experience like with battery and speeds? Also have you been able to use Softbank's WiFi spots with the iPad?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't comment on the seido battery but I have had great experience on my Verizon nexus on the oem extended 2100 battery. Perhaps you would be fine with the Samsung 2000 hspa+ battery. I have found after market batteries to be very hit or miss. Another great thing about the OEM extended battery is it doesn't really make the phone any thicker and it feels good in the hand. I actually prefer the feel over the stock battery.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
ArmanUV
I have the iPad 2 also. The apps on the iPad are much better and even act better on iOS. That is why I am very hopeful with the Nexus 7.
Developers will finally be able to developed on an open and pure platform. I hope to see some improvements soon
Mike @ Guy4Tech.com
kizuki.buy said:
G-nex seems the best to meet your requirement. You can always tether it to either your Nex-7 or iPad2 depending upon which one meets you needs (app wise).
I am using G-nex on SBM and wi-fi only iPad2. The G-nex is almost always in hotspot mode. Ofcourse you might want to invest 2-3k yen in a good external battery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't suppose you would be able to share your APN settings? I have an iPhone 4 but want to use my Nexus with my iPhone SIM instead. Do Softbank ever catch tethering to iPads?
Guy4Tech said:
ArmanUV
I have the iPad 2 also. The apps on the iPad are much better and even act better on iOS. That is why I am very hopeful with the Nexus 7.
Developers will finally be able to developed on an open and pure platform. I hope to see some improvements soon
Mike @ Guy4Tech.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am also considering the nexus 7 over upgrading my original iPad as it'd be much smaller and I'm hoping for some real developer improvements.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Get a transformer and dock. not a prime they suck at GPS, WIFI, BT)
And GN (can't beat a flawless phone for a cheap price).
Matching phones and tabs is overrated. You know what, buy the transformer, if you don't like it, just return it
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
There's a very simple rule to remember when buying an Android device:
Nexus > Not Nexus
I've found this out the hard way.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
The Nexus combo by far.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

I'm sticking with the Galaxy Nexus and here is why:

I know everybody is excited about the Nexus 4 and I'd definitely buy it if I didn't already have a phone, but I'll be sticking with my Galaxy Nexus until at least next year. Why?
1) The Nexus 4 price is enticing, but this is also a precedent set by Google to do this with all of their Nexus phones from now on. I don't feel like I'm missing out on a one time deal. I fully expect Google to roll out another model for the same or similar price next year.
2) I bought my Galaxy Nexus at $349 months ago. I have no buyers remorse at all.
3) The processor/ram on the Galaxy Nexus is sufficient for my needs. I don't play any games so I don't feel the need for more speed.
4) The Nexus 4 is coming out with Android 4.2. I'd rather buy a handset that comes with Android 5.0 since it would have whatever hardware features that debut along with Android 5.0's featureset and that is likely coming by this time next year.
5) I'm not too keen on having a phone with a glass back. Reminds me of looking at the iPhone 4 and dreading how it might break. I'd rather just avoid any issues Nexus 4 users may have with a glass back.
6) Motorola Mobility was bought by Google and it will take months before we start seeing the results of that, just in time for the next Nexus. Motorola's radios + Motorola build quality + Google user-focused design + stock Android = a perfect and likely device for 2013.
7) People are crying their eyes out about the Nexus 4 not having LTE, and while I don't care about LTE myself right now since its not even a standard nationwide much less worldwide, I'd say that in a years time, carriers will be further along with deploying and standardizing LTE and manufacturers will have cheaper, more standard hardware out thus it will be a lot more likely for Google to roll out their LTE-standard Nexus phone in 2013, just in time for my next phone purchase.
8) I don't think quad-core phones are ready for prime-time just yet. Many of the reviews for quad-core phone indicate that they're not as beneficial over a dual-core chipset as people would think just yet. I'd like to get a quad-core chipset that is more mature, power-efficient, and powerful and the 2013 Nexus seems like a good time to expect such a thing.
9) I have my Galaxy Nexus rooted and running Minco with the latest Franco.Kernel. All of the issues with the screen and sound have been fixed with their optimizations, features, and patches. I get battery life that is good enough for me with it, and my phone just gets smoother and smoother every month using that combination. The Minco devs say they will continue to support the Galaxy Nexus for at least another year, so having my phone continue to improve with Android 4.2 and 4.3.X in the coming months will tide me over just fine.
That's my rationale and I'm sticking to it. Anybody agree? Anybody sticking with the Galaxy Nexus for other reasons?
My list is much shorter:
1.) VZW
I'm sticking with my Galaxy Nexus for the exact same reasons
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
Nice points.in happy with my nexus and I'm just going to use the money to get a nexus 7 lol.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
WiredPirate said:
My list is much shorter:
1.) VZW
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Time to dump that crappy company as soon as your contract runs out and go with the freedom of GSM.
I agree with this 100%. This is pretty much exactly what my reasons are.
The only things I really like in the Nexus 4 are:
- Gorilla Glass 2
- IPS panel screen
Other than that I think it's a waste of money IMO. Not to mention 8GB is ridiculous now... I laugh at that since my Droid X2 came with 8GB (and at least has an External SD). The amount of "power" their putting in this is totally unnecessary... Unless your playing a game like GTA then I doubt you'll ever even use all 4 of those cores (I don't even know what 2GB of RAM would even be used for because that ridiculous).
It's a nice toy, but definitely not something I would jump on. If I didn't have my GNex now and I were buying a new phone, then sure, I'd probably choose the Nexus 4 - but I'd definitely go with the 16GB upgrade. (Also, I bought my GNex for $50 about a week or two ago. I have no regrets at all)
EDIT:
Why does everyone have issues with Verizon anyways...? I don't see anything wrong with them or see any benefit of going GSM. Anyone care to enlighten me on the subject? >.>
IAreKyleW00t said:
The only things I really like in the Nexus 4 are:
- Gorilla Glass 2
- IPS panel screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, those are the only things I care about too. IPS is enticing but you gave me an idea for my 9th point.
IAreKyleW00t said:
EDIT:
Why does everyone have issues with Verizon anyways...? I don't see anything wrong with them or see any benefit of going GSM. Anyone care to enlighten me on the subject? >.>
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
generally you can get cheaper service with a GSM provider. there is also a higher resell market since you can use the phone on any GSM provider.
CADude said:
Time to dump that crappy company as soon as your contract runs out and go with the freedom of GSM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Expensive? Yes. Crappy? Definitely not. I would love to go get a $50/mo prepaid no contract GSM plan, I actually would if I could. But the fact is in my area the GSM carriers have overall poor reception, and extremely poor to no reception at my home and work. So the "freedom of gsm" to me just means my phone will never work because it doesn't have service. So until I can get actual reception and data from GSM networks, I have to refer back to my list:
1.)VZW
Zepius said:
generally you can get cheaper service with a GSM provider. there is also a higher resell market since you can use the phone on any GSM provider.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I figured as much, but that seems more beneficial if you were the only user in your phone plan. I got that family plan. ;P Plus, I get great coverage where I am. I'm always connected to 4G wherever I go. I'm pretty satisfied with Verizon... they've never let me down so far. Whenever I've had an issue with a phone they take it back and give me a new one - no questions asks.
I'm sure there's probably A LOT more details about the differences between the two, but it does seem like everyone hates Verizon. xD
IAreKyleW00t said:
I figured as much, but that seems more beneficial if you were the only user in your phone plan. I got that family plan. ;P Plus, I get great coverage where I am. I'm always connected to 4G wherever I go. I'm pretty satisfied with Verizon... they've never let me down so far. Whenever I've had an issue with a phone they take it back and give me a new one - no questions asks.
I'm sure there's probably A LOT more details about the differences between the two, but it does seem like everyone hates Verizon. xD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well.. people hate verizon cause they muck with the phones, delay updates, and generally just say "screw you phone" after 6 months
even with me having a family plan with 4 phones, it was cheaper to switch to prepaid plans. i'm currently on straight talk.
CADude said:
I know everybody is excited about the Nexus 4 and I'd definitely buy it if I didn't already have a phone, but I'll be sticking with my Galaxy Nexus until at least next year. Why?
1) The Nexus 4 price is enticing, but this is also a precedent set by Google to do this with all of their Nexus phones from now on. I don't feel like I'm missing out on a one time deal. I fully expect Google to roll out another model for the same or similar price next year.
2) I bought my Galaxy Nexus at $349 months ago. I have no buyers remorse at all.4
3) The processor/ram on the Galaxy Nexus is sufficient for my needs. I don't play any games so I don't feel the need for more speed.
4) The Nexus 4 is coming out with Android 4.2. I'd rather buy a handset that comes with Android 5.0 since it would have whatever hardware features that debut along with Android 5.0's featureset and that is likely coming by this time next year.
5) I'm not too keen on having a phone with a glass back. Reminds me of looking at the iPhone 4 and dreading how it might break. I'd rather just avoid any issues Nexus 4 users may have with a glass back.
6) Motorola Mobility was bought by Google and it will take months before we start seeing the results of that, just in time for the next Nexus. Motorola's radios + Motorola build quality + Google user-focused design + stock Android = a perfect and likely device for 2013.
7) People are crying their eyes out about the Nexus 4 not having LTE, and while I don't care about LTE myself right now since its not even a standard nationwide much less worldwide, I'd say that in a years time, carriers will be further along with deploying and standardizing LTE and manufacturers will have cheaper, more standard hardware out thus it will be a lot more likely for Google to roll out their LTE-standard Nexus phone in 2013, just in time for my next phone purchase.
8) I don't think quad-core phones are ready for prime-time just yet. Many of the reviews for quad-core phone indicate that they're not as beneficial over a dual-core chipset just yet. I'd like to get a quad-core chipset that is more mature, power-efficient, and powerful and the 2013 Nexus seems like a good time to expect such a thing.
9) I have my Galaxy Nexus rooted and running Minco with the latest Franco.Kernel. All of the issues with the screen and sound have been fixed with their optimizations, features, and patches. I get battery life that is good enough for me with it, and my phone just gets smoother and smoother every month using that combination. The Minco devs say they will continue to support the Galaxy Nexus for at least another year, so having my phone continue to improve with Android 4.2 and 4.3.X in the coming months will tide me over just fine.
That's my rationale and I'm sticking to it. Anybody agree? Anybody sticking with the Galaxy Nexus for other reasons?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.) Of course you can expect one every year with an attractive price now. That's just how Google rolls now.
2.) Same here (2 months ago), and no buyers remorse also. Still getting the N4 because of the attractive price and the processor murders the mediocre OMAP4460 inside the GNex..
3.) The SoC & RAM is NOT efficient for my needs in the GNex. I'm always low on RAM (below 100MB after use, w/o even playing games!). And the SoC doesn't have enough oomp. So can't wait for some S4PRO PAWAH!! lol
4.) Sounds good also, but the S4Pro will run KLP/(5.0?) just fine.
5.) The glass back is a non-issue. Most will put a slim case anyways for protection like I did with my current GNex. Plus it gave me a better grip. Since my carrier Tmo is an exclusive carrier for the N4, I can use Tmo's insurance to replace the N4 if something happens to it. Couldn't do the with my GNex
6.) Meh on Moto devices. Every one I've seen had crappy performance and crappy screens. HTC or Samsung FTW.
7.) LTE isn't a dealbreaker for me RIGHT NOW since Tmo has DC HSPA+42 which gets an average of 12-20mbps in my area (tested with my GF HTC One S). My GNex with SC HSPA+21 gets 3-7mbps average .. Tmo will have LTE Advance in 2013, and I will get the next Nexus (N5?) should have an LTE radio. So the N4 will be fine for the time being.
8.) Where do you get the the QC thats inside the N4 is not efficient? It's using 28nm+Krait core (Cortex A15 class) which is even better than pre-2012 SoC's using DC+40/45nm+Cortex A9. So the SoC inside the N4 is perfectly fine right now and is future-proofed for a good amount of time.
9.) :good:
WiredPirate said:
My list is much shorter:
1.) VZW
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL
IAreKyleW00t said:
I agree with this 100%. This is pretty much exactly what my reasons are.
The only things I really like in the Nexus 4 are:
- Gorilla Glass 2
- IPS panel screen
Other than that I think it's a waste of money IMO. Not to mention 8GB is ridiculous now... I laugh at that since my Droid X2 came with 8GB (and at least has an External SD). The amount of "power" their putting in this is totally unnecessary... Unless your playing a game like GTA then I doubt you'll ever even use all 4 of those cores (I don't even know what 2GB of RAM would even be used for because that ridiculous).
It's a nice toy, but definitely not something I would jump on. If I didn't have my GNex now and I were buying a new phone, then sure, I'd probably choose the Nexus 4 - but I'd definitely go with the 16GB upgrade. (Also, I bought my GNex for $50 about a week or two ago. I have no regrets at all)
EDIT:
Why does everyone have issues with Verizon anyways...? I don't see anything wrong with them or see any benefit of going GSM. Anyone care to enlighten me on the subject? >.>
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon has a massive network, I can't deny that, but it uses CDMA which has some negative. But other than the tech that Verizon uses, the guy above answered a few things negative about Verizon so I won't repeat it, so i'll just write negatives about CDMA.
GSM/HSPA+/LTE>>>CDMA/LTE .. CDMA is crap because:
1.) its not global
2.) No Sim cards (not sure if the CDMA/LTE versions acts the same as G/H+/LTE version where you can pop in your sim card in any compatible phone and it'll work).
And 3.) No simultaneous Talk+Data (No downloading large files/updating apps while a phone call comes in, but I believe LTE fixes that if you have it in your area).
So yea, can't wait for CDMA to be phased out by LTE. GSM will start the phase out starting 2015/16.So HSPA+ & LTE FTW!
As for your original post about the N4, lol, its 8 & 16GB, but hopefully a 32GB version is in the near future. I'm always left with 1GB in my GNex :crying: And 2GB of RAM is great! I'm always around or be 100MB, so 1GB is NOT enough. The SoC inside the N4 is highly need and is a huge upgrade from this crap SoC inside the GNex. With the S4PRO it will allow me to punch threw anything with no worries about slowdowns :victory:
J-Hop2o6 said:
LOL
GSM/HSPA+/LTE>>>CDMA/LTE .. CDMA is crap because:
1.) its not global
2.) No Sim cards (not sure if the CDMA/LTE versions acts the same as G/H+/LTE version where you can pop in your sim card in any compatible phone and it'll work).
And 3.) No simultaneous Talk+Data (No downloading large files/updating apps while a phone call comes in, but I believe LTE fixes that if you have it in your area).
So yea, can't wait for CDMA to be phased out by LTE. GSM will start the phase out starting 2015/16.So HSPA+ & LTE FTW!
As for your original post about the N4, lol, its 8 & 16GB, but hopefully a 32GB version is in the near future. I'm always left with 1GB in my GNex :crying: And 2GB of RAM is great! I'm always around or be 100MB, so 1GB is NOT enough. The SoC inside the N4 is highly need and is a huge upgrade from this crap SoC inside the GNex. With the S4PRO it will allow me to punch threw anything with no worries about slowdowns :victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) true
2) there are sim cards, and if you pop a sim card into a compatible phone, it works fine
3) talk and data works fine if you're a LTE area OR have a phone that has a SVDO radio.
Point 4 is very good. I however am keeping my Nexus simply because its perfect for my needs and will receive all the latest software updates direct from Google for at least another year. The only time I may change is if the HTC One X5 turns out to be true
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
GNex is still a great device and relevant, not to mention I'm stuck in a Verizon contract. Looking forward to the next Nexus phone.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
It will end up being about $100 for me after selling my galaxy nexus. I was stunned when i heard the price, i expected it to be much higher. As far as the glass back i think a nice case takes care of that problem.
There's pretty much no reason to stick with Gnex, unless you really like the way it looks or prefer samsung. Nexus 4 beats it almost every way.
Nexus 4 all the way. Can't wait.
I am sticking ... and that was before I found out about not having LTE. I still have unlimited and use 4G quite a bit. Plus I just love the GN - front and design over all, though I painted the battery door. The only thing that sounds nice is the wireless powering without any extras and I'm sure the screen is beautiful. Not quite enough to push me. I'll certainly get the next Nexus as well.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
J-Hop2o6 said:
Verizon has a massive network, I can't deny that, but it uses CDMA which has some negative. But other than the tech that Verizon uses, the guy above answered a few things negative about Verizon so I won't repeat it, so i'll just write negatives about CDMA.
GSM/HSPA+/LTE>>>CDMA/LTE .. CDMA is crap because:
1.) its not global
2.) No Sim cards (not sure if the CDMA/LTE versions acts the same as G/H+/LTE version where you can pop in your sim card in any compatible phone and it'll work).
And 3.) No simultaneous Talk+Data (No downloading large files/updating apps while a phone call comes in, but I believe LTE fixes that if you have it in your area).
So yea, can't wait for CDMA to be phased out by LTE. GSM will start the phase out starting 2015/16.So HSPA+ & LTE FTW!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. I don't travel around the world so I don't think that matters to me.
2. You can swap out Sim cards.
3. I've never had issues with apps updating or whatever while in a phone call.
Not to mention I'm not the guy in charge of my contract/plan. >.>
I dunno, I've never had issues with Verizon. I'll do some research later on. This is getting off-topic so ill stop this now. :x
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
I'll be sticking with the Galaxy Nexus as well. I still have 2 years left on my contract which is a drag, but that's not the only reason. As of right now, it gets the job done well. It runs smoothly & it can take the games I throw at it. When I get my next phone, I don't want it to be a minor jump from my current one & that's what the Nexus 4 feels like to me. I'm not disputing the power increase, but I'm just saying that I won't use it to it's full potential. I'll wait to see if there's a phone that packs more new hardware features than just power.

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