Develop Bugs

New PSX style Bluetooth Gamepad

Hey everyone, I recently got myself a tablet and got quite hooked to emulators. Unfortunately i found it really hard to find a really good gamepad, but two weeks ago I discovered a really good bluetooth gamepad here in China that was made for Windows Mobile devices, but thanks to the Bluez-IME developer it works now since last Sunday with all Android 2.2+ devices.
I made a short video and put it up on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLB7zyWrVnY.
I was really surprised by the quality of the pad, I have no delay whatsoever and the internal 450mAh battery lasts me for a few days so far (and can be easily recharged via a microUSB cable).
If anyone is interested I could try to post some from Hong Kong next time when I go there.
Edit: I took a little effort and created a website with all the info regarding the gamepad at http://phonejoy.weebly.com . If you are interested in this gamepad you should check it out.

This controller was made specifically for windows mobile? It came with drivers for winmo? Never heard of that, and I've been searching for a good gamepad for over a year.
I recently discovered the iControlPad. I started a thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=983160
This is definitely the most versatile and upgradeable bluetooth gamepad ever made. It can be used for any phone, tablet, or computer that uses bluetooth, and has an internal 1350mah battery that can charge your phone or tablet while using it. And it is capable of multiple bluetooth profiles and upgradeable firmware, so it can be made compatible with any current or future device with bluetooth.
There are already many devs putting support for this gamepad in their emulators... yongtz just got his IcontrolPad, so we'll see support in PSX4droid, nes4droid, snes4droid and all his other emulators soon. Already many others already with support. Also, the developer of the GamePro drivers for android is currently adding support in that driver, too. Even without special drivers, it can be put in keyboard mode and it will register its buttons as keyboard buttons, so already all android emulators are already compatible like that, too.
In my thread, there are links to the company and forums that make this gamepad. I've got 2 on their way to me, and I will be posting an unboxing and review as soon as I get it.

Yeah i don't know how long it's been around for. It definitely has drivers for Windows Mobile, from what I know it's based on the MSI BGP-100 so it is pretty easy to make it compatible for all devices that already support the BGP-100.
I am sure the iControlPad is awesome too, especially if you own a phone that works with a clamp. It is kind of pricy though and I can't imagine it to be great if use it with a tablet or a phone connected to a TV. I got this pad for about $25 and probably would ship it for $30 and shipping costs (should be $10-15) if the interest is there.

Hmmm... interesting. How does the build quality seem? Does it seem mass manufactured? Does it come in retail packaging or anything like that? Have you ever seen these sold online? Several months ago I spent countless hours searching for bluetooth gamepads online, even searching many chinese site, and never saw this before.
I see it also has 2 pairs of shoulder buttons... do both pair work individually? the BGP100 only had 1 pair of shoulder buttons.
I might want one of these if I can scrounge enough money up.

The build quality is pretty solid, I wouldn't say it's much different from the original PSX controller I had back in the day. The controller has as said an internal battery, two LEDs (one to show you the Bluetooth connectivity status and one for the charging status), a microUSB port for charging and an automatic standby mode (after around 2 minutes). The pad has an overall 10 buttons (14 if you include the D-PAD), and of course all shoulder buttons work individually. Only thing that's missing in my opinion would be two analog sticks and dual shock, but yeah it's the best I've seen so far around.
The controller is by no means massproduced, they are made by a local Chinese guy here who buys Vinyson (Chinese brand that produces all sorts of gamepads) USB PSX pads and then modifies them to make bluetooth workable. From what he told me, he only makes and sells a few dozen a week. He actually offered me to buy off the blueprints of him, but I don't think the demand would be there to actually mass produce it at the moment.
It works actually fairly easy, you just need to activate the Bluetooth button and select Phonejoy in the device menu of Bluez-IME, pair it with "1234" code and then select the "Phonejoy / Vinyson" driver in Bluez-IME, then select Bluez-IME instead of your usual keyboard IME and then all that's left there is to do is to set the buttons to whatever value you want them to be. Because of that option I've actually been able to make the gamepad work in all -oid emulators, psx4droid, FPSE, and even some Android games like Illusia, Zenonia 1 & 2 and others.
As long a game supports any sort of keyboard input the pad usually works which is pretty cool. The range was pretty good with my phone too, at least 6ft I reckon, though that would only really make sense with a phone connected to the TV OUT. Would be certainly cool once Bluez-IME supports two controllers.
Edit: Oh yeah for what it's worth, he actually sells them in the Vinyson packaging, and the pad came with a microUSB cable and a stand for the joypad (no idea what that's good for).

would you have any contact details for the supplier or a distributor? been looking for one of these for a good wee. pm or reply - whichever you feel is more appropriate.

Can you please hit me up with a contact too, thirru? Thanks!

Oh, so he just uses a bluetooth module from a BT keyboard to make the controller bluetooth. I was looking into building myself a controller this way until I got ahold of a BGP100, which I was planning on using to also make my own modded bt gamepad (probably still will, but it's not as important to me now that I have an iControlpad on its way to me).
Still a pretty good deal for a custom made BT gamepad... it saves a lot of soldering work. You could probably sell some of these on ebay for a little profit.
I'd still be interested in getting one if I can scrounge up the money.... I'm interested in opening it up and seeing exactly how he did it.
Let me know when ever you'd have a chance to pick some more up to ship out, I'm sure I'll take one.

Sorry for the belated resonse guys, been a bit busy these days.
I'll try to set up an eBay page tonight. As said the guy only sells them locally in his shop here. Thing is the shipping costs are ridiculous from China (about $30-35 USD with UPS/DHL/FedEx) so I will buy like 10-15 pads and give them next weekend to my girlfriend to post them from Hong Kong then, where it should be around $10 with Hong Kong airmail.

Alright, I have put a page together on eBay with all the information etc. at http://is.gd/p0FAd0
Sorry for the long shipping, if demand is there I could buy next time a few more and then have a friend in HK handle the shipping that would cut it down to one week instead of two. Because of the eBay charges, shipping, etc it's all in all $45, outside of eBay I could make it probably make it work for $40 I guess. If someone is interested in that, feel free to PM me.

EDIT: READ BELOW FOR UPDATE.
I don't mean to cut in to your sales, but I don't think you're trying to make a profit anyways. Just wanted to let everyone know I found a similar gamepad selling on ebay for about $25 after shipping. This one can also be used as a USB gamepad also. It's sold from Hong Kong. It should be able to be used just like this gamepad on android or winmo devices, as it's a bluetooth gamepad meant for computer, so it should be no problem with BT keyboard drivers or Game Pro drivers for android.
It says its on sale right now, so in 2 days the price will go up to over $50 after shipping.
Check it out: http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-Bluetooth-W...t=Video_Games_Accessories&hash=item20b8411850
EDIT: On closer look at the listing, I think it's just be a regular Six-Axis BT gamepad meant for the PS3... they have it listed as for a PC though, and don't even mention the playstation. I know regular BT Six-Axis gamepads can be used with the PC with special drivers, but they can't be used with android phones. Unless this is some modified version, which I doubt, the listing was misleading. Sorry to get anyones hopes up... good thing I went back and paid closer attention to the pictures. Sorry everyone.

Yeah I was about to say. I had first tried buying one of the local Playstation Bluetooth gamepads for PC here, but I wasn't able to pair it with my phone unfortunately. Would be sweet though if somebody comes eventually up with a hack that allows Android users to use PS3 gamepads...
The PSX style Bluetooth gamepads of mine have sold out for now unfortunately. I talked to the guy who makes them two days ago and he said he will need at least two weeks to make the next batch, but this time I asked him to make 30, which should hopefully be finished by the first week of May.

thirru said:
Yeah I was about to say. I had first tried buying one of the local Playstation Bluetooth gamepads for PC here, but I wasn't able to pair it with my phone unfortunately. Would be sweet though if somebody comes eventually up with a hack that allows Android users to use PS3 gamepads...
The PSX style Bluetooth gamepads of mine have sold out for now unfortunately. I talked to the guy who makes them two days ago and he said he will need at least two weeks to make the next batch, but this time I asked him to make 30, which should hopefully be finished by the first week of May.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This has got me thinking.... I wonder if it would be worthwhile to try to produce my own bluetooth gamepads to sell?
If you don't mind, next time you talk to the guy, see if you can get a bunch of the bluetooth modules that he uses and if you can get a good price on them. If I can find a good source for the bluetooth modules for cheap, I could probably produce custom-made bluetooth controllers for relatively cheap. Maybe make one or 2 different premade models, and then I could also do custom made ones for people, where they send me whatever controller they want me to make into a bluetooth one.
I desperately need an income right now, so I've been trying to think up ideas for side business to help makes ends meet. This might be something that may interest a lot of people if I can get it done cheap enough.
If you wouldn't mind seeing if it would be possible to buy a bunch of the bluetooth modules that this guy uses in his controllers, I'd appreciate it. Even if you can get a few of them, that would be cool. The main reason I wanted to buy one of these controllers was to open it up to use the bluetooth module in my own custom controller.
To anyone who reads this, let me know your opinion...Does this idea sound like something people would be interested in? Any ideas or suggestions?
If I could get the bluetooth modules for $10/each or less, and get the gamepads I use for $10/each or less, I should be able to make them and charge $30 or less, plus shipping.

Sorry, I had been busy these days with some work I had to take care of. He only told me he's buying them on the electronic market in his city of Chongqing in western China. He wouldn't tell me obviously which ones he is using, as he wants to stay in business. Wouldn't any sort of module work though?
Anyway, shipment of the gamepads had been slow, and they only arrived yesterday. I tried and tested them, and they seem to be all working fine. I only managed to post them today from Hong Kong. I've got to ask him to use a faster courier next time though. Anyway as said he's working on thirty more pads, and he's finished ten so far and hopefully in a week's time he'll be finished with the other twenty. I also managed to find a FedEx reseller who can ship the pads within 24-48 hours for 25 USD. So that might be a better way for next time...

Yeah, any bluetooth keyboard module would work, but I was just wondering if this guy would be willing to sell a bunch of the modules for a decent price. The cheapest I can get bluetooth keyboards are for around $16-$18, and I'd have to deal with taking them apart and all that. If I can find someplace to get just the bluetooth modules for a reasonable price($10 or less each), it might be worthwhile to try to do this.
It was just an idea. Did you ask him if he would sell a bunch of the BT modules? I doubt I would cut into any of his business considering he's all the way in china and there's not many people making BT gamepads, and he could make some extra money selling the BT modules marking them up if he has a good connection for them.
I'm just trying to buy around 10 or so right now... nothing huge. If not, no big deal. With all these other manufacturers now releasing bluetooth gamepads suddenly, I don't know if it would even be worthwhile to try making my own. A year ago, it would have definitely been worth it, as there was no other BT gamepads on the market.
For years there was only the BGP100 gamepad available if you wanted a bluetooth one, and that has been discontinued for like 5 years. And no other manufacturer releases any bluetooth gamepads all this time, but now, suddenly, there's like 4 or 5 companies all releasing bluetooth gamepads all in the same year.

Nah, he won't budge. Maybe if you sent me the name of a module I could go and look around for you.

thirru said:
Nah, he won't budge. Maybe if you sent me the name of a module I could go and look around for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure of the manufacturers... I'll look into that. There's a bunch of cheap bluetooth keyboard that come out of china... I'm not sure if one manufacturer makes most of the modules and sells to different manufacturers of keyboards. Any bluetooth board from any small bluetooth keyboard would work. You can get the small keyboards as cheap as $15 ea retail, so I figure if you find the right company or place, you should be able to get just the bluetooth boards from them for $5-$10 if you buy a bunch.
I don't know, don't worry about going out of your way or anything, but keep your eyes open for any really cheap bluetooth keyboards or modules from them. I'll probably buy a keyboard or 2 and see how easily I can make a custom bluetooth keyboard... see if it's something that might be worth my efforts.
I just got my iControlPads in the mail today.... they are very nice. Very sturdy and well-built. You should look into it if you game a lot. I know they are pretty expensive... at least twice the price of the gamepads you're getting... but the features it has and the versatility with upgradeable firmware and multiple bluetooth profiles, and ability to charge devices off it's battery while using it... I think makes it well worth it foranyone who games a decent amount. What I read about the parts used and build quality, and now that I actually am holding one... It's very sturdy and I bet it could easily last 10 or more years, with exception of internal battery and rubber membrane, both of which you should be able to get from manufacturer and replace when needed.
Oh, yeah, I wanted to ask... is that you in the android controller thread at fpsece.net forums talking about these PSX controllers? I've been trying to get more people aware of the iControlPad there so that schtruck adds support for them in FPSe. It's my favorite PSX emulator, and I hope he adds full support so the analog controls on the iControlPad will work properly. That's another really cool thing about those gamepads... I've never seen analog controls like that... there really nice... it would be great to use them properly with psx games. The analog controls can be used to control mouse arrow on computers, too, which is pretty cool.

how can we get the bluetooth gamepad?
Hello thirru
i have a HTC HD2 windows mobile and i am interested to buy this bluetooth gamepad, is there anyway i can get it? if yes then for how much?
thanks

zarathustrax said:
I'm not sure of the manufacturers... I'll look into that. There's a bunch of cheap bluetooth keyboard that come out of china... I'm not sure if one manufacturer makes most of the modules and sells to different manufacturers of keyboards. Any bluetooth board from any small bluetooth keyboard would work. You can get the small keyboards as cheap as $15 ea retail, so I figure if you find the right company or place, you should be able to get just the bluetooth boards from them for $5-$10 if you buy a bunch.
I don't know, don't worry about going out of your way or anything, but keep your eyes open for any really cheap bluetooth keyboards or modules from them. I'll probably buy a keyboard or 2 and see how easily I can make a custom bluetooth keyboard... see if it's something that might be worth my efforts.
I just got my iControlPads in the mail today.... they are very nice. Very sturdy and well-built. You should look into it if you game a lot. I know they are pretty expensive... at least twice the price of the gamepads you're getting... but the features it has and the versatility with upgradeable firmware and multiple bluetooth profiles, and ability to charge devices off it's battery while using it... I think makes it well worth it foranyone who games a decent amount. What I read about the parts used and build quality, and now that I actually am holding one... It's very sturdy and I bet it could easily last 10 or more years, with exception of internal battery and rubber membrane, both of which you should be able to get from manufacturer and replace when needed.
Oh, yeah, I wanted to ask... is that you in the android controller thread at fpsece.net forums talking about these PSX controllers? I've been trying to get more people aware of the iControlPad there so that schtruck adds support for them in FPSe. It's my favorite PSX emulator, and I hope he adds full support so the analog controls on the iControlPad will work properly. That's another really cool thing about those gamepads... I've never seen analog controls like that... there really nice... it would be great to use them properly with psx games. The analog controls can be used to control mouse arrow on computers, too, which is pretty cool.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's great news zarathustrax, does it work with all the emulators so far? How is the feeling in your hand when you haven't attached it to your HD2? To be honest I've rarely seen a gamepad break. I still have plenty of SNES and NES controllers somewhere in my closet that i used for years and that are probably still fully functionable. But yeah I'm happy for you that your icontrolpad finally arrived and that it's of great build quality.
Anyway, I have been looking for some bluetooth modules and keyboards. And they vary in price between 7-12 USD. The cheapest one is 7, but it's really just the module without any pins.
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The one with pins is 9 USD
And the cheapest mini bluetooth keyboard I found is about 12 USD.
Oh and yeah I am also the guy who posted at the FPSE forum.

reachkavi said:
Hello thirru
i have a HTC HD2 windows mobile and i am interested to buy this bluetooth gamepad, is there anyway i can get it? if yes then for how much?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reachkavi, I should have new ones in about a weeks time. I'll let you know when they arrive and then I'll make an ebay buy it now page again. They are $30 plus $15 (standard) or $25 for FedEX express shipping.

LiveView or else...

I see that a lot of comments are not in favour of this device.
Is there an alternative to this?

Theres another bluetooth watch but its very different from the liveview.
SE are convinced I either have a faulty phone and are adamant the liveview works perfectly with the Arc so who knows, it may just be me but im not giving them my phone and liveview for a couple of weeks whilst they wipe them both and give me them back with a "clean bill of health"

Thanks so you have link to this other bluetooth watch?
Another thing that doesn't convince me is the lack of a headphones Jack on it.
diggedy said:
Theres another bluetooth watch but its very different from the liveview.
SE are convinced I either have a faulty phone and are adamant the liveview works perfectly with the Arc so who knows, it may just be me but im not giving them my phone and liveview for a couple of weeks whilst they wipe them both and give me them back with a "clean bill of health"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App

I know that SE is working on LiveView 2 or what ever new name they will name it... It should be thinner and not as bulky as LiveView now...
personally I'm waiting for the new one to come

well providing they get it right the second time I will definitely buy one. When mine does work it works well and fits my needs perfectly. I use it with sporty pal and also for controlling the music so I can place the phone in my armband and use the liveview to do the viewing.
Ive just been for an hours run and it worked flawlessly, yet tomorrow I may get a phonecall and it will disconnect whilst the phone is ringing. Its very random.
It would be nice if anyone else with an arc and a liveview could post, if I could confirm that there is an issue with mine I would send it away, but I want to be sure first.

Xajel said:
I know that SE is working on LiveView 2 or what ever new name they will name it... It should be thinner and not as bulky as LiveView now...
personally I'm waiting for the new one to come
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
source or link?

^^^
I don't remember now where I saw that, but it was a trusty source

diggedy said:
It would be nice if anyone else with an arc and a liveview could post, if I could confirm that there is an issue with mine I would send it away, but I want to be sure first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use LiveView with Arc, and I haven't had a single issue with it. Maybe aside from lack of track info being sent from the SE media player to LiveView - the controls were working fine, but no artist/title info were shown on the screen. This was resolved with the most recent LiveView firmware update, though - have you tried it yet?

Do you recommend getting liveview for recieving messages, calls and changing songs?
Does it work well with the things mentioned above?

kyods said:
I use LiveView with Arc, and I haven't had a single issue with it. Maybe aside from lack of track info being sent from the SE media player to LiveView - the controls were working fine, but no artist/title info were shown on the screen. This was resolved with the most recent LiveView firmware update, though - have you tried it yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SEUS tells me its up to date so I reinstalled anyway. Am I right in thinking the last firmware update was january?

Rooster19 said:
Do you recommend getting liveview for recieving messages, calls and changing songs?
Does it work well with the things mentioned above?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it does. I've had no issues with it whatsoever. I don't get millions of texts nor calls every day, nor do I use Facebook or other social features, so I can't tell how LiveView behaves in heavy duty environments, but for my casual usage it's perfect.
diggedy said:
SEUS tells me its up to date so I reinstalled anyway. Am I right in thinking the last firmware update was january?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, not really. There was an update to both the LiveView App and the firmware some time last week - April 12th, according to the date tag on Market.
If you are having issues with SEUS not recognising the update, check the bottom posts here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/archive/index.php/t-882784.html, hopefully it helps.

Well I have noticed that the music player now displays the tracks and there is an "up" function in the plugins folder. I assumed this was because of the app not the firmware as its never actually told me there was an update. perhaps it updated it when I thought I was reflashing the old version
mines not performing under normal use. Disabled facebook and twitter and it still disconnects. I like to use it for sportypal and music player as my main use but it plays up during normal use, sometimes I can get an hour out of it sometimes 2 minutes. :/

so i received some requests about the liveview plugins removed from the market. well here they are free for download.
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liveview where am i plugin: http://www.mediafire.com/?x70z7p2oo1t9w4v (Must read Instructions)
liveview weather plugin: http://www.mediafire.com/?44rygvqghcjyy2a

So I finally got a LiveView...but
Got it in Berlin from Sony shop it was only 29euro for the sport pack.
Impossible to connet!
I was able to make it work (sometime) with some instructions that I got from the internet.
Basically it autodisconnect after a few seconds. Everytime.
Also SportyPal Pro disconnect LiveView evytime I open the app or the plugin.
SportyPal support says that since SE didn't provided an Arc to them it was untested and so unsupported.
Form what I read it seems this sony accessory works better with non SE phones!
Has anyone any suggestions?

I have Liveview and I used it with my Xperia X8 before and now with my Xperia Arc
here what I can say about my Experience with my Liveview
With the Latest LiveView Update, LiveView Application(1.0.A.0.19) and LiveWare Manager(2.2.7)
Usage: I use it 8-9hrs a Day
Disconnect: Xperia X8: 2~3x, Xperia Arc: 1~2x but sometimes I don't get disconnected
Reconnect: Xperia X8: 2~3s, Xperia Arc: 2~3s
I'm not sure if Android Version got something to do with Stability of Liveview, but AFAIK LiveView will work with any Android Handset(but some of them have problems with connections), and it is Best to use it on Sony Ericsson Handset.
Build: 6/10
Build Quality is not that good, specially it pops out in the clip every now and then, because of Bad Design.
but you can sort it out by changing the strap or have a customized strap and make your liveview permanent on the clip, so no more accidentally popping out in the clip.
but for me i just used a thin double adhesive tape at the back and sides of liveview so it will stick to its clip no more problems after that
Connectivity 9/10
As long as you have the Latest LiveView Update, Application and LiveWare Manager and You are Using Sony Ericsson Android Phone it is Pretty Stable and Reconnects Fast if ever you got Disconnected.
but remember that If you are Low in RAM, If you go less than 30MB, this is one of the reasons why LiveView Disconnects.
Plugins 6/10
Very Limited Plugins Available, and Few are Handy but most of them are Free
Battery Life 7/10
It can last up-to 3~5 days of 8hrs a day on a single charge, really depends on how you use it
It's just too bad that LiveView is not very well Supported by Sony Ericsson and Developers, until now some bugs/issues are not yet fixed, if you are using a Non SE Android Phone, and the Scarcity of Plugins available is limited and most of them are not useful
But its a Cool Accessory to have
and for alternative, there is another one called I'm Watch
I'm Color is the cheapest(299Euro) and I'm Jewel(12,000Euro) is the expensive ones that comes with exotic materials like gold, titanium etc
but the Specs is way different if you will compare it to LiveView, I'm Watch is an Android Watch

mhyke13ph said:
... and for alternative, there is another one called I'm Watch
I'm Color is the cheapest(299Euro) and I'm Jewel(12,000Euro) is the expensive ones that comes with exotic materials like gold, titanium etc
but the Specs is way different if you will compare it to LiveView, I'm Watch is an Android Watch
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This really looks interesting! I'll wait and see what apps/widgets they bring out before buying (it's not 'standard' Android, but a custom version based on 1.6, so you're probably limited to apps/widgets specifically for it), but it's provisionally on my Christmas list

mhyke13ph said:
and for alternative, there is another one called I'm Watch
I'm Color is the cheapest(299Euro) and I'm Jewel(12,000Euro) is the expensive ones that comes with exotic materials like gold, titanium etc
but the Specs is way different if you will compare it to LiveView, I'm Watch is an Android Watch
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hell yeah this i'mWatch is the bomb! will probably wait for reviews but it's 75% on my wishlist already... plus, that 299 EUR could buy a new phone already T.T
also, they say a 2nd generation LiveView is on the works already so we'll see about that as well.

[Q] NFC Tag writing after Google OTA patch

Has anyone been able to write any tags with their Galaxy Nexus handset yet with the software from the market?
I got these tags http://www.rfidshop.com/tamperproof-label---nfc-pack-of-10-3132-p.asp
I'm trying to use NFC Task Launcher but it says the tag isn't the correct format, I also used a reader but that also says:
'This item is used blocked or not supported and cannot contain an NFC data set'
I have contacted the company that supplied me the tags and they are happy to refund me but after further correspondence with them I have confirmed I have indeed bought the correct tags
So before I send them back I'd like to know if it's just down to ICS and the new hardware
Update 1:
I have now tried several NFC apps from the market some say the tag is unlocked some say it write protected I have tried writing to one and the app said complete but when I touch the tag again it just prompts to write to it again =/
I'm hoping it's the tags and I have somehow got a corrupted batch, I need to find somewhere I can test the tags independently of the Galaxy Nexus to rule it out
Anyone have any Ideas?
Update 2:
Issue raised with Google by user krohnjw [thanks ]
From the android bug tracker
"Thanks for the report. We're aware of this issue, and it will be fixed in next upcoming release."
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Update 3:
Have just applied the patch .zip and tried one of the tags from TagsFroDroid.com and it's still the same issue where the tag isn't recognised by the handset!!!

is it just me that has tried this then?

Looks like it ;-)
Once mine turns up, I'll be trying it too. I was also planning to order from the same company as you as well, so I'll be keeping a watch on this before ordering.

Hi spences10
I think you and I have crossed paths with the Mighty Dell Streak (Great device, make the SGN look tiny Glad you are onboard with the SGN)
Your idea looks interesting, sorry i cant help, but it is a free bump for you.
Can you tell me where you got these tags from, and how much they were please?
Are they rewritable one?
Good luck

grizlore said:
Hi spences10
I think you and I have crossed paths with the Mighty Dell Streak (Great device, make the SGN look tiny Glad you are onboard with the SGN)
Your idea looks interesting, sorry i cant help, but it is a free bump for you.
Can you tell me where you got these tags from, and how much they were please?
Are they rewritable one?
Good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi grizlore good to hear from you again dude
The company that does the tags is linked in the main post, I'll link you the exact page if you like
From talking to the guy at the company they are the right tags for what we want to write to with the galaxy nexus
I have started the thread to find if its the tags or of the software needs updating
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

Sorry, I'd love to be able to have tried it, but the Carriers (?- I think, maybe Google/Samsung) are dragging their feet here in the States...
Forgive my ignorance, but what frequencies do the NFC tags/transponder use? Is there variation or changes in the standards over time (i.e. the phone's hardware and tags match right?)? How were they packaged, were they shielded from anything that might have interfered with the tags?
I don't know much about the NFC systems, but this is one of the features I am most excited for (sadly I skipped the Nexus S last year). And I can't wait to play around with this...

Just a tag out of the package tapped it against the back of the phone and it pops up saying its incompatible
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

Sorry this doesn't relate to your problem, but since you are knowledgeable about NFC tags, do you know if it's possible to use the NFC in the GN to read an RFID tag in an ID card, store that, and then let me use the phone in place of the ID card to get accesses to card readers that read the ID card?

I couldn't get NFC Launcher to work, but could read my UK Oyster travel card (MIFARE) using NXP TagInfo. I couldn't do much with it though - maybe because it's encrypted.
There are quite a few types of RFID tags. Many simple ones are 125kHz and these can store the data in different formats. NFC uses 13.56MHz along with some other RFID tags.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

This is very upsetting if true. Hopefully it's either a non-issue or will be fixed with a software update. I ordered a Nexus and some NFC tags, so next week I should be able to test this.

I really hope they do. My Nexus ships the 25th, but I already have three MIFARE 1K 13.56MHz (http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10131). I found a blog post that mentioned them specifically working with the Nexus S, which I assumed means they'll work with the Galaxy Nexus. I'll post again once I get my phone early next week.

Ok, let me chime in here NFC Task Launcher works on my AOSP build of ICS on the Nexus S. I don't have a GN yet, but will be picking one up when it becomes available.
First, spences10, can you please link the exact tags your purchased - I can easily check the specs and let you know if they should be compatible or not?
Second, the Mifare 1K Classic tags aren't actually NDEF form type tags. They work on the Nexus S but are NOT guaranteed to work on all future devices (Blackberries for example do not work well with them). If you want the best bang for your buck look at the Mifare Ultralight C tags (144 bytes and cheap).
I've compiled a list of shops that I've personally tested with the Nexus S and enumerated which tags definitely work if it's a subset of what is offered: http://www.jwksoftware.com/nfc-tags - feel free to take a look.

krohnjw said:
Ok, let me chime in here NFC Task Launcher works on my AOSP build of ICS on the Nexus S. I don't have a GN yet, but will be picking one up when it becomes available.
First, spences10, can you please link the exact tags your purchased - I can easily check the specs and let you know if they should be compatible or not?
Second, the Mifare 1K Classic tags aren't actually NDEF form type tags. They work on the Nexus S but are NOT guaranteed to work on all future devices (Blackberries for example do not work well with them). If you want the best bang for your buck look at the Mifare Ultralight C tags (144 bytes and cheap).
I've compiled a list of shops that I've personally tested with the Nexus S and enumerated which tags definitely work if it's a subset of what is offered: http://www.jwksoftware.com/nfc-tags - feel free to take a look.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response krohnjw
I have updated the op with the link to the tags, I'll check out the link as well
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

spences10 said:
Thanks for the response krohnjw
I have updated the op with the link to the tags, I'll check out the link as well
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, they don't list any actual specs, but assuming those are actually Mifare Ultralights (Type 2 ) tags they should work. However they have a very limited capacity (48 bytes).

krohnjw said:
Ok, they don't list any actual specs, but assuming those are actually Mifare Ultralights (Type 2 ) tags they should work. However they have a very limited capacity (48 bytes).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK thanks krohnjw on the strength of that I think I will return them for a refund
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

Ok, Have now purchased these. I'm not sure how long shipping will take to the UK though
http://www.tagsfordroid.com/tags/Home.html

spences10 said:
Ok, Have now purchased these. I'm not sure how long shipping will take to the UK though
http://www.tagsfordroid.com/tags/Home.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oooo...I haven't had an NFC phone yet, but I didn't know you could do stuff like this with them...
"Change Phone State
Turn WiFi on/off, set ringer volume in car or home, etc. "
That would be super-awesome to just wave the phone over one of these as I walk in my house to change phone settings.

fdm1 said:
oooo...I haven't had an NFC phone yet, but I didn't know you could do stuff like this with them...
"Change Phone State
Turn WiFi on/off, set ringer volume in car or home, etc. "
That would be super-awesome to just wave the phone over one of these as I walk in my house to change phone settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats exactly what I want them for
Check this out from on of my Google+ buddies http://thegfbblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/ever-since-i-got-my-nexus-s-4g-few.html

spences10 said:
Thats exactly what I want them for
Check this out from on of my Google+ buddies http://thegfbblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/ever-since-i-got-my-nexus-s-4g-few.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Super-cool! Keep us posted if the new ones you ordered work.

I may need to try this...

Official Galaxy Nexus Car Dock with TRUE 3-pin functionality! (2012-08-10 Update!)

Does anyone know where we can get this dock in the US?
http://www.mobilefun.co.uk/genuine-samsung-galaxy-nexus-vehicle-dock-ecs-k1f2begstd-p33499.htm
Apparently, VZ was selling the el cheapo version:
http://www.droid-life.com/2011/12/1...ay-want-to-pass-on-the-car-dock-from-verizon/
no true 3 pin docking functionality built in! It was essentially a $40 piece of plastic.
Here's a video of the dock in action. This has to be the most functional dock in existence. The only thing you'd want more is probably an ext antenna connection but mobiles don't have those! LOL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2w7TgFmP74I&feature=player_embedded
DOCK SOFTWARE UPDATE 2012-06-06:
From Efrant: I've attached Google's Car Home and Car Dock applications. Once you install these (both are needed), Car Home will automatically launch once you dock your phone into the car dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Coming soon, directly from Google, $54 USD:
https://play.google.com/store/devic...alaxy_nexus_hspa_car_dock&feature=accessories
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
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"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
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If everyone clicks on the NOTIFY ME button, Google will get the message that many customers are waiting for this product!

Neo3D said:
Does anyone know where we can get this dock in the US?
Here's a video of the dock in action. This has to be the most functional dock in existence. The only thing you'd want more is probably an ext antenna connection but mobiles don't have those! LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, pop the battery cover off. I see 4 distinct antenna looking connectors (3 smaller ones, one medium one). No idea which ones which or what they're for though.
I'd be interested in getting one of those docks as well, but am curious whether or not an extended battery could be used.

I think a ton of ppl bought the OEM extended battery:
http://www.androidcentral.com/verizon-galaxy-nexus-extended-battery-curvy-all-right-places
It doesn't "look" like it's much thicker. Hopefully Sammy was smart enough to make this dock fit standard and extended batteries.

Wow I was so into needing a Car Dock that I didn't even realize its essentially a $40 piece of plastic, lol. Glad I saw your thread. I want the REAL Dock!

thatguy188 said:
Wow I was so into needing a Car Dock that I didn't even realize its essentially a $40 piece of plastic, lol. Glad I saw your thread. I want the REAL Dock!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One of the guys at a work meeting yesterday got the GN and was disappointed at the car dock. I was surprised that it didn't have the 3 pin function cuz I swore, the one I saw on the net had it.
I'll have to send him that article too, I guess VZ jipped a lot of ppl who were thinkin they got the REAL 3 pin dock.
Anyway, I can't find any place that sells this thing in America??

Amazon UK has Galaxy Nexus docks listed, but they're not available till Jan 1st. :/

Is this the one?
samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECS-K1F8BEGSTA

Shade21 said:
Is this the one?
samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECS-K1F8BEGSTA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the version Verizon is selling that does not have the pins.

I pre-ordered one from the link below. No way was I going with the cheap dock. It's not pictured on the page but I do believe the model numbers are correct and it appears to be manufactured by Samsung. 99% sure it's the right one.
http://www.mobilecityonline.com/wireless/store/productdetail.asp?productid=28757

daveknights said:
I pre-ordered one from the link below. No way was I going with the cheap dock. It's not pictured on the page but I do believe the model numbers are correct and it appears to be manufactured by Samsung. 99% sure it's the right one.
http://www.mobilecityonline.com/wireless/store/productdetail.asp?productid=28757
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you are right, the product description says its the 3 pin one. Please let us know if it works out once you get it, I would love to buy it once I get some more cash!

daveknights said:
I pre-ordered one from the link below. No way was I going with the cheap dock. It's not pictured on the page but I do believe the model numbers are correct and it appears to be manufactured by Samsung. 99% sure it's the right one.
http://www.mobilecityonline.com/wireless/store/productdetail.asp?productid=28757
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No picture, no buy.
Do tell when you receive it and tell us if it works.
I'll be waiting to try and buy directly from Sammy.

Will the one their gonna be selling in the UK be compatible though with the CDMA nexus? I'm about to contact samsung and verizon I think.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App

They describe it with " Automatically puts your Galaxy Nexus handset in Vehicle Mode when docked"
Has anyone found a "Vehicle Mode" in the Galaxy Nexus yet? The Car Home app from Google says it isn't compatible with the GN and I don't find any apps currently on the device that would do this.

dlaciv12 said:
They describe it with " Automatically puts your Galaxy Nexus handset in Vehicle Mode when docked"
Has anyone found a "Vehicle Mode" in the Galaxy Nexus yet? The Car Home app from Google says it isn't compatible with the GN and I don't find any apps currently on the device that would do this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CarHome Ultra works perfectly.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App

dlaciv12 said:
They describe it with " Automatically puts your Galaxy Nexus handset in Vehicle Mode when docked"
Has anyone found a "Vehicle Mode" in the Galaxy Nexus yet? The Car Home app from Google says it isn't compatible with the GN and I don't find any apps currently on the device that would do this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Might be part of the delay. The could be holding it up until Car Home is updated by Google
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

Wow, don't I feel like a jackass. I actually got the verizon dock not even thinking of the possibility it might be a useless piece of poo, aka a glorified window phone holder. What a crock. Why would they ever do something like that? Worst launch ever. Also, anyone else noticing the screen isn't as scratch resistant as let's say, a droid x? I wanted this device to be so awesome, and it is, but I feel like they could have gone the extra mile and gave us the device that lived up to the hype more than this does. I mean there isn't a car home app that comes stock. Thanks for the recommendation on car home ultra. Going to give that a try until we can get our hands on the REAL car dock.

we have it at bell.ca, in canada
for 84.99
---------- Post added at 02:53 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:35 AM ----------
daveknights said:
I pre-ordered one from the link below. No way was I going with the cheap dock. It's not pictured on the page but I do believe the model numbers are correct and it appears to be manufactured by Samsung. 99% sure it's the right one.
http://www.mobilecityonline.com/wireless/store/productdetail.asp?productid=28757
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats the cheap verizon one bro
i515 is verizon
i9250 is gsm nexus

SS2006 said:
we have it at bell.ca, in canada
for 84.99
---------- Post added at 02:53 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:35 AM ----------
thats the cheap verizon one bro
i515 is verizon
i9250 is gsm nexus
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt that.
If the car charger mounts directly to the mount as described, it's the higher-end mount and not the plastic doohickey currently on offer at Verizon stores.

Remember the GSM version is thinner than the verizon version, so the dock may not fit LTE phones

Poughkeepsie125 said:
I doubt that.
If the car charger mounts directly to the mount as described, it's the higher-end mount and not the plastic doohickey currently on offer at Verizon stores.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sure but thats them describing the dock, which could be wrong
i think the most important piecee of detail from their listing is the
i515 (VERIZON VERSION)
they probably didn't insert that in by mistake
plus mobilecityonline is american and the only car dock available to USA (NO GSM Gnexus there yet, unlike UK and Canada) is verizons

NFC tags for the S3

So which NFC tags have you purchased that work well?
EDIT: Probably should've posted this in the Accessories forum. Mods - feel free to move this if it isn't Kosher.

I bought a 5-pack of the Samsung TecTiles and they work great. They allow for 1K storage which is good if you plan on putting a lot of data or things on them.

Purchased some from tag stand a while back, they come in different sizes and they work fine with the s3
Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2

How much did you guys pay? Wondering if there's any real difference between the different brands besides size.

I got them for around $15, they came in different sizes.
something like this: http://www.tagstand.com/collections/nfc-kits/products/nfc-hobbyist-starter-kit-15-stickers

Is it just me or are the official TecTiles almost worthless?
Is seems they can each only do 1 single function and the phone needs to be unlocked to activate them.
For instance, say I have the TT programmed to connect to a specific WiFi network. This only works if WiFi is turned on and the phone isn't already locked. You can't have it:
a) Turn on WiFi first
b) Connect to a specific network.
Instead, you have to unlock phone, and turn on WiFi manually. Makes it kind of pointless to just TAP and be done with it.
Maybe its just the Samsung app, it's extremely limited. Are there better apps?

bob_ross said:
Is it just me or are the official TecTiles almost worthless?
Is seems they can each only do 1 single function and the phone needs to be unlocked to activate them.
For instance, say I have the TT programmed to connect to a specific WiFi network. This only works if WiFi is turned on and the phone isn't already locked. You can't have it:
a) Turn on WiFi first
b) Connect to a specific network.
Instead, you have to unlock phone, and turn on WiFi manually. Makes it kind of pointless to just TAP and be done with it.
Maybe its just the Samsung app, it's extremely limited. Are there better apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't used it yet but this sounds like what you might be looking for:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jwsoft.nfcactionlauncher&hl=en

I got the tiles from Samsung. I'm going to use them for putting my phone into silent when I put my phone on my nightstand. I think that going with Samsung's official ones are the best.

Haven't looked too much into what can be done with tags. But, could I for instance set one up to turn on my bluetooth and pair it with my car when I get into my car? And also unpair and turn off bluetooth when I get out?

Vdubtx said:
Haven't looked too much into what can be done with tags. But, could I for instance set one up to turn on my bluetooth and pair it with my car when I get into my car? And also unpair and turn off bluetooth when I get out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.

Citizen Snips said:
I got the tiles from Samsung. I'm going to use them for putting my phone into silent when I put my phone on my nightstand. I think that going with Samsung's official ones are the best.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not so sure about that. I've heard some of the aftermarket ones work just fine.

I got mine here http://tagsfordroid.com/tags/Home.html
10 of them plus a free key fob for $16 and fast free shipping. All of them work perfectly. I use NFC task launcher to write them

Wow, I had no clue an nfc chip could do that. So stick one in your car and program it to do certain things! That is great. I need to get some of these.

clankfu said:
Haven't used it yet but this sounds like what you might be looking for:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jwsoft.nfcactionlauncher&hl=en
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome! That is exactly what I was looking for! You can chain many commands! Leaps and bounds beyond the official Samsung app! Thanks!