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Hey guys, I need your opinion on an important decision I'll be making soon. I'm due for an upgrade at the end of January and I have been debating between getting the iPhone 4 or Samsung Focus. I currently have an iPad, so I'm not sure if I will be concerned not having the huge app ecosystem on WP7 because I will have it with the iPad. When I used the Samsung Focus for the first time I thought WP7 was absolutely fantastic; everything was very fluid and vibrant. I'm just not sure if Microsoft is really committed to making WP7 a true competitor. With the iPhone I know it's OS is already matured and Apple releases a major update each year that most of the iPhone's get.
If anyone here can offer up a recommendation it would be much appreciated. This will be my first smartphone (although I know a lot about the major OS's) and want to make sure I get a phone that is going to be well worth it (I don't like Android or BlackBerry, sorry).
EDIT
Sorry, I should have elaborated. I basically want a phone that's good for texting (software keyboard on WP7 is great), fast in general (specifically the browser), has a few good time passing games (more heavy gaming would be done on my Playstation), good facebook support (which WP7 seems to support immensely), good for music/videos, good camera/video quality (I like the iPhone's HDR option, is there an app for that on WP7?) and good call quality/reception. I must admit I like apps, but not to the point that I have withdrawals for not having the same ones on each platform. It seems app development is picking up on WP7 with 100 apps a day and there are already some decent apps I would be using (flixster, IMDB, shazam, etc).
The iPhone has all these things and does them really well, but I feel like iPhone's are becoming a dime a dozen nowadays so I kinda want something that is a little bit different (has to be good though).
Someone asked why I don't like Android and BlackBerry so I guess I will explain (please don't get mad, its just my personal opinion). I've used Android on numerous occasions, but I don't like how it feels for some reason, nor do I like how the carriers customize its phone's interface with crappy skins and fail to update it promptly. I know you can do a lot with rooting, but it being my personal phone I would rather not risk losing data by tempering with it. Regarding BlackBerry's I need a phone with a touchscreen and I think the only BlackBerry at AT&T with a touchscreen is the BlackBerry Torch. When I used it, it just seemed so much slower and more bothering then it was fun to use. I'm not a corporate executive (I'm a senior in high school) that needs a phone to handle 100's of emails perfectly so I would rather not purchase one.
Hey man,
It really depends on what you want to use your phone for. It also depends on whether or not you want to make calls with your left hand (ha).
Seriously, though, I've got a WP7 device and my brother has an iPhone 4. For me, the biggest difference between the two is convenience. I have my upcoming appointments, weather, latest photos, facebook updates, emails and texts all on my homescreen, and most of the information I need day-to-day is available without having to dive into an app. When I had an iPhone, the homescreen's lack of functionality really began to frustrate me, and doing a lot of tasks became laborious.
That said, though, try both and see which you like. Obviously, the iPhone has the edge in apps but if you've got an iPad you can take advantage of iOS's huge store. Of course, the vastness of that store can be a blessing and a curse - in my experience WP7 apps tend to be of a higher standard, visually and functionally.
Basically, I don't see how you can go wrong with this choice. Both are great devices. I'd recommend Wp7 because for me it's more useful, and if you've got an iPad you can still get your angry birds fix. Anyway, try both and you can't go wrong.
Cheers
ErikWithNoC said:
Hey guys, I need your opinion on an important decision I'll be making soon. I'm due for an upgrade at the end of January and I have been debating between getting the iPhone 4 or Samsung Focus. I currently have an iPad, so I'm not sure if I will be concerned not having the huge app ecosystem on WP7 because I will have it with the iPad. When I used the Samsung Focus for the first time I thought WP7 was absolutely fantastic; everything was very fluid and vibrant. I'm just not sure if Microsoft is really committed to making WP7 a true competitor. With the iPhone I know it's OS is already matured and Apple releases a major update each year that most of the iPhone's get.
If anyone here can offer up a recommendation it would be much appreciated. This will be my first smartphone (although I know a lot about the major OS's) and want to make sure I get a phone that is going to be well worth it (I don't like Android or BlackBerry, sorry).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought an HD7...WP7 phone... and am now angry that MS has shoved the full compliment of features way out almost a year from now. WP7 is basically featureless when compared to the iPhone or any Android phone. You don't get voice nav, copy & Paste, custom ringtones, wifi tethering, customized interface, multi-tasking and a lot of other useful stuff already present on the iPhone or Android. MS says it will be doing any updating itself. But their idea of a considerable update is adding copy & paste.
My view is that WP7 is a dead system based on what has already transpired with it and what it currently is. The UI and system is very nice, but you can find just as nice a system in a non-smartphone and still have the same amount of features, or generally more.
However, if you want the phone for media purposes, it makes an outstanding ZuneHD. Movie playing is excellent and the use of Zune desktop is perfection.
If you go with a WP7, I recommend the HD7, don't expect any other functionality than a simple cellphone and media player. You get to play games with it too, so consider that as well. Don't expect extensive updating either. MS seems to be taking a purely conservative tact with WP7 and any significant updates...bringing extensive features...will be way out into the future. Also consider the latest bug, which has the data and wifi using excessive amounts while in standby. It might put a hurt on anyone with limited data packages.
Depends on what you want out of your phone. Without that information, the best advice I can give/ way to frame this is that it boils down to one important aspect:
Do you want variety? If you get an iPhone4, you are basically getting a smaller iPad (I own an iPad, so not knocking just saying), but you also get to share apps between the two, music, etc. If you get a WP7, you are getting and entirely new experience and platform. You will be getting duplicates of apps and in many cases music, etc.
For me, I love variety. I have several Android phones, a couple BBs, an iPad, and am getting an HD7 very soon. But I am also a cell phone salesman, so knowing every OS is vital to helping customers get the right phone. I am also a tech geek, so having different gadgets is exciting. Lastly, I am a curious person by nature and don't like not knowing first hand.
So, do you want variety (with the caveat of not having a unified experience) or do you want a unified experience across all your gadgets?
zuka right, it is about what your needs are.
I have the LG Quantum, i am in love, i need the keyboard, and i really like the "spell check" in it, i also have used the camera button more than once. WP7 has a flow to it and after using it for a bit you will like having that back button, i use it alot when my girlfriend txts me in the middle of something and i dont have to think about where i was in the UI. the iPhone is great but the GUI is feeling a little dated to me.
MartyLK said:
I bought an HD7...WP7 phone... and am now angry that MS has shoved the full compliment of features way out almost a year from now. WP7 is basically featureless when compared to the iPhone or any Android phone. You don't get voice nav, copy & Paste, custom ringtones, wifi tethering, customized interface, multi-tasking and a lot of other useful stuff already present on the iPhone or Android. MS says it will be doing any updating itself. But their idea of a considerable update is adding copy & paste.
My view is that WP7 is a dead system based on what has already transpired with it and what it currently is. The UI and system is very nice, but you can find just as nice a system in a non-smartphone and still have the same amount of features, or generally more.
However, if you want the phone for media purposes, it makes an outstanding ZuneHD. Movie playing is excellent and the use of Zune desktop is perfection.
If you go with a WP7, I recommend the HD7, don't expect any other functionality than a simple cellphone and media player. You get to play games with it too, so consider that as well. Don't expect extensive updating either. MS seems to be taking a purely conservative tact with WP7 and any significant updates...bringing extensive features...will be way out into the future. Also consider the latest bug, which has the data and wifi using excessive amounts while in standby. It might put a hurt on anyone with limited data packages.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have never seen someone complain sooooo much and blame other soooo much over something that is their fault. If you wanted a phone that could do your dishes for you, you should have gotten that, not a just launched brand new smartphone OS that EVERYONE knew had limited features out of the box, and would be looking at least a year of updates to get every feature of the other OSs.
You also seem to ignore the simple fact that it took Android two years to get universal copy/paste, and only 2.3 phones have that. You also forget the iPhone took 3 years to get wallpapers.
Tell you what, sending a PM your way.
It is all comes down to the personal choice.
All WP7 devices are built around the same specs pretty much, what makes Focus stand out is its screen IMHO. I do not own neither iPhon4 nor WP7, but I have a Galaxy S with the same screen as the Focus, believe me it is a joy to have it.
iPhone4 retina display is another marvel on its own, but I think 4" screen on Samsung is the balance between real estate and the visual quality.
Of course coming here you will get more favorable opinions towards WP7, but do your research on the choices you might have. AT&T is not big on the Android offerings, but Captivate offers the same screen as Focus, but in different OS implementation.
Good luck on your choice!
pjcforpres said:
I have never seen someone complain sooooo much and blame other soooo much over something that is their fault. If you wanted a phone that could do your dishes for you, you should have gotten that, not a just launched brand new smartphone OS that EVERYONE knew had limited features out of the box, and would be looking at least a year of updates to get every feature of the other OSs.
You also seem to ignore the simple fact that it took Android two years to get universal copy/paste, and only 2.3 phones have that. You also forget the iPhone took 3 years to get wallpapers.
Tell you what, sending a PM your way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moot point on the C&P on Android and wallpapers on iPhone, all offering on the market now already have it and a lot more.
juist out of interest, OP, why don't you like android or blackberries?
It depends OP. Are you interested in participating in an Open Beta? If so.. WP7 is for you.
lqaddict said:
Moot point on the C&P on Android and wallpapers on iPhone, all offering on the market now already have it and a lot more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Android still doesn't have universal copy/paste unless you have a Nexus S. And you totally missed the point; the point was that features take time to be developed and implemented. I was simply pointing out how long other platforms took to get those features; features that WM had from the get go, and in the case of wallpapers, basic phones had for years.
pjcforpres said:
No, Android still doesn't have universal copy/paste unless you have a Nexus S. And you totally missed the point; the point was that features take time to be developed and implemented. I was simply pointing out how long other platforms took to get those features; features that WM had from the get go, and in the case of wallpapers, basic phones had for years.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can just select, copy and paste on my 2.2. What are you talking about?
I get an email with a WPA key, I select it, copy, and paste it into my WiFi settings app.
I am on the call, I receive a phone number from the other party, I open (mind you while on the call) a memopad app, type down the phone number, select it, copy. I end the call, I paste the number into the dialer and I am calling that phone number - I was doing it on 2.1.
lqaddict said:
I can just select, copy and paste on my 2.2. What are you talking about?
I get an email with a WPA key, I select it, copy, and paste it into my WiFi settings app.
I am on the call, I receive a phone number from the other party, I open (mind you while on the call) a memopad app, type down the phone number, select it, copy. I end the call, I paste the number into the dialer and I am calling that phone number - I was doing it on 2.1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can only copy and paste from input fields. Some skinned versions have it expanded a bit more than that, but not much. Try going to a website filled with text, and just copy pasting... better yet, try and copy paste from gmail.
Not sure how you can copy paste a WPA key from an email unless it is hyper-linked or you are using a 3rd party app that enables it. I have been using Android since the G1 was released, and without modding my phone, have never been able to copy paste beyond input fields, and can't find anything explaining how to on the interwebs other than apps that require root, with one exception, get a Nexus S with 2.3 on it.
pjcforpres said:
You can only copy and paste from input fields. Some skinned versions have it expanded a bit more than that, but not much. Try going to a website filled with text, and just copy pasting... better yet, try and copy paste from gmail.
Not sure how you can copy paste a WPA key from an email unless it is hyper-linked or you are using a 3rd party app that enables it. I have been using Android since the G1 was released, and without modding my phone, have never been able to copy paste beyond input fields, and can't find anything explaining how to on the interwebs other than apps that require root, with one exception, get a Nexus S with 2.3 on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You want a demo? I will shoot one just for you, sorry OP cluttered your thread a bit here.
Don't know about stock, my phone is not stock.
The latest GMail app includes select text option that puts it into the clipboard.
lqaddict said:
You want a demo? I will shoot one just for you, sorry OP cluttered your thread a bit here.
Don't know about stock, my phone is not stock.
The latest GMail app includes select text option that puts it into the clipboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, forgot they added menu, select text, for gmail and the browser... clearly I am not a copy paste user on my phones.
None the less, my entire point still stands. It took a long time for these "basic" features to even appear on these phones, and still don't even exist fully implemented. If MS delivers on the universal copy/paste they are suggesting, they will have done something in 3 months it took apple 2+ years to do, and took Android 2 years to do.
pjcforpres said:
Sorry, forgot they added menu, select text, for gmail and the browser... clearly I am not a copy paste user on my phones.
None the less, my entire point still stands. It took a long time for these "basic" features to even appear on these phones, and still don't even exist fully implemented. If MS delivers on the universal copy/paste they are suggesting, they will have done something in 3 months it took apple 2+ years to do, and took Android 2 years to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well and my point is that it is already present in the current offerings, no need to beat the old horse, we are not in 2007 anymore where WP7 seem to be stuck at the moment.
pjcforpres said:
Sorry, forgot they added menu, select text, for gmail and the browser... clearly I am not a copy paste user on my phones.
None the less, my entire point still stands. It took a long time for these "basic" features to even appear on these phones, and still don't even exist fully implemented. If MS delivers on the universal copy/paste they are suggesting, they will have done something in 3 months it took apple 2+ years to do, and took Android 2 years to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what you are saying is, the technology was invented years ago, but MS is too ignorant to understand it and port it?
By the way, please stop going off topic. The OP asked for user experience, I gave my experience. Your other post was completely uncalled for and off topic.
pjcforpres said:
Sorry, forgot they added menu, select text, for gmail and the browser... clearly I am not a copy paste user on my phones.
None the less, my entire point still stands. It took a long time for these "basic" features to even appear on these phones, and still don't even exist fully implemented. If MS delivers on the universal copy/paste they are suggesting, they will have done something in 3 months it took apple 2+ years to do, and took Android 2 years to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
from kindle says it is a universal c&p system for both third party and microsoft proprietary programs
I think a lot of people are being very hard on microsoft right now. There are features that the OS does not provide but it doesn't make me want to go back to any other OS because the experience is poor. I think microsoft has a pretty good 1.0 base with the initial update, I feel surpassing google g1 and android 1.5. there are things I still want from the OS but so far not too shabby
Jesus, can't you guys go one thread without desolving into an android vs wp7 flame war?
Just try and be constructive and answer the guy's question.
The answer to OP is:
Search and browse a lot, see reviews and criticisms of the gadget, then try to "take in the hand" and finally choose.
Avoid opening in this thread. Only generates flame.
Closed Thread.
https://www.facebook.com/AndroidNoOEMSkins
This is pointless.
Tons of people love Sense/TouchWiz and hate the stock.
Android is open source, embrace it or go Apple.
As silly as the skins seem, what else separetes the manufactors. Otherwise everyone would be on stock / vanilla and android would suddenly become very dull and boring. The choice in android is why it is so successful.
I think you want android to be like iPhone by the sounds of it, one size fits all whether or not you like it or not.
Waste of a thread imo
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
As other users have mentioned above, how else are manufacturers going to differentiate themselves from the competition?
They can't do it in hardware alone because that would simply grant the competitive edge to Samsung who produce their own SoCs, memory, screens and probably more.
You also fail to be impartial by completely ignoring that benefits of manufacturer user interfaces; to name a few:
Detailed social integration - such as birthday's from Facebook, that get put in your calendar. Android 4.0x still doesn't do this.
T9 Dialer - obvious feature that's still omitted from stock Android
Notification quick control - again, another feature used in at least Sense/TouchWiz. The notifcation shade is accessible in most non full screen applications. If I'm in an application with Android 4.0 and want to turn on WiFi, I have to hit home to come out of the application and click the settings widget. Or pull down the shade, go into all the settings menu, turn it on and then come back out.
Now there's no doubting that the overlays add lead time onto getting the latest Android version out to handsets and that some of them slow the phone down but; they have added value in the past.
I love Android 4.0 but it still has obvious downfalls and you never know, the new manufacturer UIs that are being developed to be used with Android 4.0; might actually be very good. You never know.
If anything, what you should be vocal about to manufacturers, is making them support the development community; allowing them to port fully functional AOSP images to their devices.
wonshikee said:
This is pointless.
Tons of people love Sense/TouchWiz and hate the stock.
Android is open source, embrace it or go Apple.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think people necessarily hate "stock Android." The general consumer is unaware what STOCK android is because it hasn't been exposed to them. The Nexus line is directed towards Android enthusiasts. With pure marketing by Google and Verizon, they should be able to embrace stock Android experience to the crowd and make it stand out on its own.
I don't think it is necessarily the case that OEMs must skin Android to differentiate their models. Look at the Windows world. They differentiate on the hardware and design.
They could still continue to differentiate by filling in the holes with functionality that Android doesn't provide.
If they want to continue to do what they are doing, they could at least also make phones that run stock Android. I think there is sufficient demand from people who like Nexus phones to support more than at least one other stock model.
Does every single phone from HTC, Motorola, Samsung, etc have to come with their skins? Can't someone else make a non-Nexus labeled stock phone? They should try it as an experiment and see how the market responds.
dynamicpda said:
I don't think it is necessarily the case that OEMs must skin Android to differentiate their models. Look at the Windows world. They differentiate on the hardware and design.
They could still continue to differentiate by filling in the holes with functionality that Android doesn't provide.
If they want to continue to do what they are doing, they could at least also make phones that run stock Android. I think there is sufficient demand from people who like Nexus phones to support more than at least one other stock model.
Does every single phone from HTC, Motorola, Samsung, etc have to come with their skins? Can't someone else make a non-Nexus labeled stock phone? They should try it as an experiment and see how the market responds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They don't necessarily have to do separate phones. Surely they could give you the choice of home screen somewhere in the settings menu so you could have eg, a choice of sense, vanilla android home screen etc.
I personally liked Sense on my Desire and I do miss it on my GN, but to me the GN is better as I can choose the launcher, choose the widgets from a greater choice etc.
Rik.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
It really kicks the **** out of any mobile OS on the market by a landslide. I keep wanting to make a switch to something new just because I've been using it so long and I'm kind of bored, but honestly ever time I start really researching what's out there, I realize there is nothing even CLOSE to what Android offers. I was starting to get excited about the new BB10, but once again, after really researching and watching demos, that phone is going to be an epic failure and probably blackberrys ultimate demise. Their big "hub" idea is nothing more than Android's notification system but from the side instead of the top. Windows Phone probably has the most promise at this time, but they still have too many little annoyances for me (no folders, no ability to change email notification sounds between different accounts, no ability to separate your volumes for different notifications/alerts etc) that add up to a big no right now. IPhone is just years behind...I do love their hardware and that alone has made me think about switching, but then I start looking at their software and once again, it's a no.
Oh well...Android is king right now and as far as I can see (now and on the horizon), there is nothing even on the same page. Add the Note 2's functionality and you have an absolute ass whoopin going on...Haha.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 2
I'll disagree with you on the BB10. The issue with RIM's past was antiquated software and hardware. They refused to change and the mobile market decided to leave them behind. With BB10, they've basically fused a bit of ios, android and wp into one. Other than wp8, I've used all the other OS on a daily basis to know that each OS has its own potential and I'm sure tech fans would agree with that assessment. I think BB10 will be a huge success for RIM and will also motivate the innovations of the other OS as well.
lude219 said:
I'll disagree with you on the BB10. The issue with RIM's past was antiquated software and hardware. They refused to change and the mobile market decided to leave them behind. With BB10, they've basically fused a bit of ios, android and wp into one. Other than wp8, I've used all the other OS on a daily basis to know that each OS has its own potential and I'm sure tech fans would agree with that assessment. I think BB10 will be a huge success for RIM and will other motivate the innovations of the other OS as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RIM will motivate other platforms to do what??? Not become as crappy and irrelevant as the BlackBerry OS? There is not one thing that BlackBerry is doing right now (or will be doing) that everyone else hasn't exceeded ten fold. The BB OS makes Windows Phone look Android and iOS combined times three!
That is just your biased opinion, nothing more.
I have owned many and currently own an Android phone (Note II). That said I have nothing against WP8, iPhone, or BB10 (yet).
There are MANY features of the Lumia 920 that I like better than any Android phone I have owned. As a phone, it is probably my #1 pick right now. That said I am a flash junkie and I got bored with it. The WP8 market has some quality apps but still lacks in quantity. Also a few quams with WP8, but not too many. Simple things like not being able to set my own custom sms tone (you can chose only from factory options). All in all though WP8 is VERY smooth and the Lumia 920, while slightly bulky (although while thick still doesn't feel bulky compared to a Note II), is a VERY solid handset.
Again iPhone has many good qualities and iOS has by far the best selection of mobile games (I am sorry if you disagree, but this is fact.). The phones themselves do have a nice feel (personal choice) and smaller size which some people demand/want. I personally do not care for them as my own device,but that is almost entirely due to the small screen size (opinion/personal choice) and being locked to itunes which I despise.
I will almost definitely try a BB10 phone on launch unless I find something before hand that I know 100% I won't be able to deal with. I love trying out new phones, hardware and software.
Android and it's manufacturers have their own set of flaws just like Apple and MS/Nokia/etc... I won't bother listing my opinions there out of the flaming I would take over it, but I personally don't consider Android "king" of anything except selection and modification.
lude219 said:
I'll disagree with you on the BB10. The issue with RIM's past was antiquated software and hardware. They refused to change and the mobile market decided to leave them behind. With BB10, they've basically fused a bit of ios, android and wp into one. Other than wp8, I've used all the other OS on a daily basis to know that each OS has its own potential and I'm sure tech fans would agree with that assessment. I think BB10 will be a huge success for RIM and will also motivate the innovations of the other OS as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BB10 will be Rims saving grace. If it flops, they will die. There is no doubt about that.
And the only way BB10 will be a successful OS is if they have enough developers to support them. Without the developers they will have a useless phone.
I personally own a Playbook, and the QNX operating system is by far the fastest when it comes to web browsing. If you look up sunspider results you will see what I mean. The playbook is even running on outdated hardware. Throw a S4 Pro, paired with 2Gb of ram and it will be the fastest tablet to date.
Multimedia is fantastic on it too. I'm able to watch a 1080p video, stream it to my big screen via HDMI cable flawlessly. It doesn't even have to turn the tablet screen off. The software is that efficient.
The only downfall is the extreme lack of apps. If some developers back BB10, it will be successful. And I will dive in for sure
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
unrelated response
crawlgsx said:
That is just your biased opinion, nothing more.
I have owned many and currently own an Android phone (Note II). That said I have nothing against WP8, iPhone, or BB10 (yet).
There are MANY features of the Lumia 920 that I like better than any Android phone I have owned. As a phone, it is probably my #1 pick right now. That said I am a flash junkie and I got bored with it. The WP8 market has some quality apps but still lacks in quantity. Also a few quams with WP8, but not too many. Simple things like not being able to set my own custom sms tone (you can chose only from factory options). All in all though WP8 is VERY smooth and the Lumia 920, while slightly bulky (although while thick still doesn't feel bulky compared to a Note II), is a VERY solid handset.
Again iPhone has many good qualities and iOS has by far the best selection of mobile games (I am sorry if you disagree, but this is fact.). The phones themselves do have a nice feel (personal choice) and smaller size which some people demand/want. I personally do not care for them as my own device,but that is almost entirely due to the small screen size (opinion/personal choice) and being locked to itunes which I despise.
I will almost definitely try a BB10 phone on launch unless I find something before hand that I know 100% I won't be able to deal with. I love trying out new phones, hardware and software.
Android and it's manufacturers have their own set of flaws just like Apple and MS/Nokia/etc... I won't bother listing my opinions there out of the flaming I would take over it, but I personally don't consider Android "king" of anything except selection and modification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should have prefaced my post by saying that I have owned the Blackberry Pearl, the Bold 9930, the Playbook, Lumia 900, iPhone 4 and 4s...I have experienced all the big mobile OS's, so I'm not just an Android fanboy that has no real world experience using other software platforms. Like I said, I really want to fall in love with another platform just because I feel I have gotten everything I could possibly get out of Android, but it just never works out that way. I always end up back with Android wondering when someone will make an OS even close to it.
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powerwagon said:
I always end up back with Android wondering when someone will make an OS even close to it.
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung will be the someone you're looking for.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda premium
It's all about personal preference and personal bias....and what your actually comparing.
The vast majority of smart phone users don't fully understand their own device...let alone the other available ones...but if your talking specifics of what the bulk of smart phones can do in stock form..then you really need to discuss specifics...not just in general terms.
While some phones are more capable doing certain things...others can do the same...well enough..that many folks don't even bother researching all the models. Instead..the rely on peer reviews and what is "trending" to make their choices,or what their favorite celebrity pimps on TV...
Android does has something all others do not...and that is the absolute frigging humongous dedicated group of individuals who choose to share what they have made which in-turn can make our phones do the things we here want them to do without charge... Without this dedicated group of people...Android would be no different than all the rest...
Some may disagree...but... the numbers of developers for Android that do this just for the love of doing it...far exceed any other platform...and that is why Android is King of the hill...regardless of what new OS Windows, Rim or Apple decides to bash their future on. The others are hoping their dedicated cult will excite all to switch to their latest & greatest..and all plan more media blitzes to sway the masses to grab that ever dwindling % of market share...which will work for a little while ..but..only Android is open source...which allows as much customization as easily as it does...for now.
Like I said...it is about personal preferences and personal biases...and what & how that individual chooses a smart phone...
Mac
Very well said Mac
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Just read this article, today, by sheer coincidence. It basically states that Android has finally eclipsed iOS.
Cnet — Android Challenges the iPhone in Every Category.
I'm a new Note 4 user, and generally like the phone. Like anything complex, though, there are a handful of things that I'd prefer to be different. I'll spare everyone from my litany of pet peeves, and just get to the question:
QUESTION: What is the best way to send feedback to Samsung regarding new features / fixes / etc. for the Note 4?
I went to their web site and found various technical/customer support options, but I'm looking for something more focused for enhancement requests. TIA.
I wouldn't waste the time, they are to concerned with jamming their sub par software and applications into their devices just to have their branding and signature on everything you see or interact with to concern them selves with anyone's logical or rational suggestions. Just look how Samsung operates in total perspective, they make TVs and monitors, that's their bread and butter, its where the majority of their most profitable pattens reside. To put this into the most transparent terms possible, they sell more TVs each year than there are phone subscribers with access to their devices in the entire global cellular phone market.
However for some reason to prove to them selves or whoever it is they think they are impressing or competing with, they chose to build garbage on top of googles already 1st class, free operating system and interface, they waste millions of dollars doing so and for some odd reason continue to think that they will one day create a better user experience than Google the company whos bread and butter is development and let's not forgot the company who designs every operating system for every phone they sell.
Until Samsung learns to stop wanting so much counterproductive attention on their products and realizes they would make more money hand over fist buy just selling their products as is with free standard android OS, they will continue to just shovel crap onto their mechanically awesome products rendering them to nothing but bright HD displays running ads that say how stupid they are.
In my personal opinion Samsung just looks stupid next to every other electronics company. And Google needs to grow a pair and say no android OS if you modify a single thing on it. I can't be the only person who sees this flawed business model am I? When's the last time you used an HP, Dell, or Gateway computer that had System modifications of any kind on Windows? You can go out on the limb and applaud HTC for their modifications because they are cell phone company that's all they do, but for Samsung a company that specializes in displays and makes no mobile hardware of their own worth noting, they somehow get the green light on damaging Android OS with their cut rate software, and continue to make the end user of their products disappointed. The worlds gone mad.
Whoa!
:laugh:
I can't say I entirely agree nor disagree with the long post above. I don't hate Samsung, nor am a fanboy of theirs. I just needed a large phone with a stylus, and my previous phone, while large and I LOVED it, didn't have a stylus which was highly needed. All I'm going to say is this:
Most of the time, a large corporation who sells many different devices within a market (ie, phones) wouldn't care about a single consumer's opinion. You are but a single-celled organization to them. They know you're there, but you aren't big enough to see as an individual. In addition, what changes you'd like to see or need- or whatever- most likely won't be what these corporations think their consumer market wants and will buy.
So in other words, if you send them feedback, all you'll get in response is a prewritten thank you letter saying (in summary), "Thanks, we appreciate the feedback and will keep it mind," (but wont).
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 4 (sm-910a) using Tapatalk
So, it sounds like Samsung doesn't have an email address, web form, forum, etc. for enhancement requests?
On the parallel topic of big evil companies, and with respect to the folks who have offered their opinions on that subject so far, my experience has been quite the opposite - I find that most successful companies do care what their users think about their products. I work in the software industry, and the products I use most on a day-to-day basis invariably offer some sort of channel for sending feedback to the developer. Every app on the Google Play store has a "Send email" link at the bottom of it's page - in addition to many companies monitoring and responding to written feedback in the ratings section. QuickBooks has a "Send Feedback Online" option under the help menu - and even offers different options for sending comments onenhancements, bugs, and doc. A large software company that I used to work for recently implemented a suggestions forum where users can vote on enhancements, actively prioritizes work on new releases based on this feedback, and publicizes the heck out of the results in conferences, doc, and webinars. Every year I see literally thousands of people give standing ovations at one of their conferences because the developer added better Excel integration, or trimmed two clicks from a common workflow. Perhaps the best example is Atlassian, whose products many in these forums no doubt use. They are laser-focused on the people who use their tools - developers - and have been extremely successful at growing into small and large companies alike by inspiring grass roots adoption.
The list goes on. From what I've seen, companies who listen to their users do well as a result.
That said, not every company is as open to feedback as the ones in the examples above. I've found it difficult to provide feedback to Microsoft, for instance, without being part of a beta program. That said, they have robust forums that are well-attended by their internal staff. I can't say for sure, but I have to assume that the most common squeaky wheels get at least I little grease in future releases.
I don't know Samsung very well, which is why I'm asking about feedback options. It would seem odd to me that they don't have some way for users to weigh in on their Android implementation. Collectively, we buy new phones too frequently and switch vendors too easily for them not to care what we think. I like my Samsung phone, but not because it's a Samsung - it just has the features that I want. They obviously do their research into what's likely to sell. I'm hoping that there's some channel where they're actively soliciting input for improvements.
Like spexwood said, I'm not going to waste my time sending a letter to the president of Samsung and get some generic form letter in return. I know that that doesn't work. I also don't expect that Samsung will care about my suggestions, per se, even if they do have some feedback form. But, I'm sure I'm not the only one who misses text messages because the [email protected]#$ing notification beep doesn't fire when a thread is already on the screen (for example), so if mine is one of 10K voices complaining of the same thing, it would behoove them to listen - or maybe next time I'll switch to that nice LG G3 that I almost bought instead of this Note 4.
Anyway, I'm still interested in practical options for sending OS-related feedback to Samsung. Otherwise, I can just rant about stuff xda-developers and hope that someone at Samsung is watching.
Please excuse me for quoting myself, but I stand corrected:
mcmannion said:
[Samsung] obviously do their research into what's likely to sell.
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Click to collapse
I just read an article on the S6 that says that it neither has a replaceable battery nor an SD card slot? When I went phone shopping last month, these were the only two requirements I had. I looked at phones from different manufacturers, with different OS, in different price ranges... the battery and card were the only thing they all had in common.
Maybe Samsung is right and I'm wrong on this one. People seem to flock to the iPhone because it has metal and glass on the outside, even with it's hardwired battery, fixed (and expensive) storage, small screen, lack of widgets, etc. If the S6 sells better than the S5 then... then... well I'll just be a monkey's uncle.
BTW, "premium" has gained the cherished center spot on my bull$hit bingo board. The only premium I see is the extra money you'll pay for a metal phone - which will probably be covered by a rubber case, anyway. I'll take a plastic phone with a swappable battery any day.
mcmannion said:
Please excuse me for quoting myself, but I stand corrected:
I just read an article on the S6 that says that it neither has a replaceable battery nor an SD card slot? When I went phone shopping last month, these were the only two requirements I had. I looked at phones from different manufacturers, with different OS, in different price ranges... the battery and card were the only thing they all had in common.
Maybe Samsung is right and I'm wrong on this one. People seem to flock to the iPhone because it has metal and glass on the outside, even with it's hardwired battery, fixed (and expensive) storage, small screen, lack of widgets, etc. If the S6 sells better than the S5 then... then... well I'll just be a monkey's uncle.
BTW, "premium" has gained the cherished center spot on my bull$hit bingo board. The only premium I see is the extra money you'll pay for a metal phone - which will probably be covered by a rubber case, anyway. I'll take a plastic phone with a swappable battery any day.
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Click to collapse
I almost waited for the S6, then saw the final specs on it, yep not gonna happen no water Resistance no dust resistance and by the way the metal case most likely will have the same issue with scratches that the bezel on the note 4 has. not to mention an octocore 64bit processor that is hobbled at 32bit.
I still might go check it out once my local AT&T store gets them in stock. just to see
Hi,
I always had android phones (galaxy's, notes & nexuses) but it always seemed like the iOS ecosystem was better, software wise.
From the outside it seems that they are getting better apps, faster updates (even to big apps) and of course they have the iMessage that all of my friends from the US uses and is a huge part of why I want to swich. (I'm from europe).
What do you guys think? Should I jump ship once and see how it is?
If thats what you want
tal123 said:
Hi,
I always had android phones (galaxy's, notes & nexuses) but it always seemed like the iOS ecosystem was better, software wise.
From the outside it seems that they are getting better apps, faster updates (even to big apps) and of course they have the iMessage that all of my friends from the US uses and is a huge part of why I want to swich. (I'm from europe).
What do you guys think? Should I jump ship once and see how it is?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually like many people used iPhones but here I am.
Do you really think on a board like XDA, in the Pixel XL forum you are going to get everybody telling you how great iPhone is?
AstroDigital said:
I actually like many people used iPhones but here I am.
Do you really think on a board like XDA, in the Pixel XL forum you are going to get everybody telling you how great iPhone is?
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Click to collapse
Truly. This is an android enthusiast forum. If you want an iphone, go get one. Don't expect that recommendation from anyone here, though.
I think that there could be good points for both sides. it's no different then pixel vs any other flagship.
Yeah, no, it's very different. IOS vs Android, not Android vs Android. This being an android specific forum, you're not likely to find much in the way of love for the iphone 7 here.
I think it is always weird to have iOS vs android discussions in a specific phone's forum. That seems like a more general topic better discussed elsewhere.
This forum us for talking about this phone...
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Lack of a back button is reason alone to stay on Android!
I know and understand your frustrations with Android. I've been an avid android fan since the OG Droid came out. What a phone and I loved it. Pure simple and open Motorola did a great job with that phone. Fragmentation ruined that phone and most every android phone since. The thing I hated apple for was the reason andtroid was so frustrating. To this day I get sick of looking at my wifes Iphone, it looks almost exactly the same as the original Iphone, if she puts wallpaper or a photo on her phone its just covered up by the icons that apple stick there and thats annoying to me anyway. Customizing your Iphone without jailbreaking lol... even the name lets you know how they feel about messing with their phone. Let's see Android is rooting Apple is jailbreaking even in a simple adjective they let you know don't touch fall in line with everyone and like it! I really domn't like the concept of Apple sorry, it's my phone I paid for it I should be able to do whatever I want as long as I'm not intruding on the rights of others and I'm sorry I do't see how customizing my phone would bother anyone. What they did and still do have right is they control the quality of the products in their app store and Andropid has dropped the ball on that one since the beginning. looking back they were trying for numbers not quality to compete and it has cost them. The quality of apps on the iphone is better and in saying that Android is catching up. These are basically the same apps written for different platforms. Ive seen it with my wifes phone for years I get so many more force closings amnd associated other problems than she does and I can hear her frustrations when using my phone. Like I said Android has been getting better and it's a heck of alot easier writing programs for one platform and one manufacturer. This is Androids problem each manufacturer has made alterations to Android AKA skins along with constant updates its tough on developers. The whole reason for Nexus was to give the developers a heads up and a chance to work with a pure version of android. I always loved the Nexus program and found that I personally had much fewer problems than my friends that had HTC, Samsung LG etc..... These manufacturers were never held accountable for upgrading on a timely fashion and neither were the providers aka verizon AT&T etc... this is why we are in the mess we are. I think and hope google has finally said enough! They have designed and engineered a top of the line flagship, one that is not outdated before the first box arrives. This phone is one people should be proud of it's fast and smooth its as close to pure android as possible oh I know Verizon put a few apps on it but they can be removed and give mne a break that's no big deal. It's a top quality phone that can stand up to the Iphone. Believe me if you know anyone that has drank the KoolAide and my wife has it certainly isn't going to change their minds and expecting that is not realistic. Google has given the developers a phone and a platform to work with and lets see how much of a difference this makes. I for one am hoping it makes as big a difference as Google thinks it will. I think incorporating with VR and home is swinging for the fences and I hope it's a home run.
Sent from my SM-T550 using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
tal123 said:
Hi,
I always had android phones (galaxy's, notes & nexuses) but it always seemed like the iOS ecosystem was better, software wise.
From the outside it seems that they are getting better apps, faster updates (even to big apps) and of course they have the iMessage that all of my friends from the US uses and is a huge part of why I want to swich. (I'm from europe).
What do you guys think? Should I jump ship once and see how it is?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used an iPhone a number of years ago, jail broke it used Cydia the whole nine yards, once I started using Android devices I have NEVER looked back. In my position I get to try out different phones and some of the people at my company use iPhones. I have taken them home for weekend test drives just to see if I'm missing anything and after a day or so I find myself putting the SIM back in my current android device. I can't speak for you or what may be most important to you but for me I would not go back to ios.
yeah apple do a good job with software/hardware integration, but then it's to be expected with a heavily locked down device, it's the same reason they get updates first they are simpler to make stuff for.
but for me I've just always found Android way more flexible and I would rather have that flexibility. end of the day it all comes down to personal choice.