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So, I just did my phone upgrade last week, for those who did not see my initial post on the bootloader issue with the ION.
I upgraded from Galaxy S2 i777 AT&T to the Sony Xperia ION AT&T, little did I know about the the bootloader issue when I got the ION.
Now I am considering taking this ION back for one of the following. Please keep in mind, I enjoy having the ability to install ROMs/Kernels.
Here are the other phones I am considering, I would really appreciate pros and cons and opinions. Even if the opinion is to keep the ION.
Phones I am Considering.
LG Nitro HD (bootloader? Support CWM? Roms/Kernels?)
LG Escape (bootloader? Support CWM? Roms/Kernels?)
Motorola Atrix HD (bootloader? Support CWM? Roms/Kernels?)
Samsung Galaxy S2 (Yes same one I had, gave my original to my Father)
Sony Xperia TL (bootloader? Support CWM? Roms/Kernels?)
I know not everyone will know EVERYTHING about EVERY device. I am just looking for opinions. And if you know offhand, on weather bootloader is unlockable,,,or needs to be?
Should I hold out on the ION and wait for bootloader unlock?
Should I just go back to Galaxy S2 i777?
I am now researching all of these phones and I made a small list of things I would like to have (besides Kernel/Rom)
FM Transmitter (My Saturn Vue has an AUX 3.5mm slot which is nice, but my GMC Envoy does not and am forced to use addon 3rd party FM transmitter...BLAH)
8gb ish internal storage
MicroSD access without having to pull out the battery (Im looking at you Galaxy S2 i777)
720p Screen
4" minimum screen
So what do you guys think? Hold out on bootloader unlock for ion? Or choose to pick a new phone or go back with Galaxy S2.
Any help and or opinions are very much appreciated.
On a side note, I submitted my MIME(sp?) through the sony unlock website for the ION and got an email with a code for it. (LT28at) But cannot enter fastboot mode.
Unless I have to call Sony or something...but that is an entirely different topic belonging in Q/A.
Thanks for reading.
considering your options !
i will recommend you to go for none of the above !
talking about the lg nitro, the screen is a marvel but battery is really horrible !
there are custom roms but dont expect lg to release official jb for this anytime soon ! i am saying this as i owned a nitro before !
atrix hd has official jb 4.1.2 but bootloader is locked or you have to use bootstrap recovery and it only has a couple of custom roms and frankly i dont think it will get future updates and roms !
lg escape just has root atm and no custom roms !!
i maybe wrong over here though !
i wouldn't even recommend going back to s2 as you've already used it before and is a much older device now !
you may choose and xperia t/tl or any other samsung/xperia (ones with krait cores) if you like to flash custom roms !!
good luck choosing the right one !
TL has locked bootloader but its a great phone. Love mine.
Sent from my Sony Xperia™ TL
Almost every phone for ATT has nonunlockable bootloaders. There are a few that you can circumvent using tricks but they can be risky. Sounds like your best bet is just to buy an unlocked phone. It is expensive but worth it IMHO.
Wait, and buy an Xperia ZL
I love my ION from att. It's locked but it was FREE.
I just looked ifs free again w/upgrade, the TL is only $50.
I say get the free one and save up for a unlocked model to play with. SPECTRE51 will tell you how easily he switches thru 4 devices
~Jaramie
sent by my ION
Xperia SOFT-BRICK Recovery Thread
ToledoJab said:
I love my ION from att. It's locked but it was FREE.
I just looked ifs free again w/upgrade, the TL is only $50.
I say get the free one and save up for a unlocked model to play with. SPECTRE51 will tell you how easily he switches thru 4 devices
~Jaramie
sent by my ION
Xperia SOFT-BRICK Recovery Thread
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Yep that's what I love about AT&T. just swapping the sim card and using a different phone.
Sent from my Sony Xperia™ TL
Nek0x90 said:
Wait, and buy an Xperia ZL
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Click to collapse
This :good:
Better to wait for the Z/ZL than your options
I miss my gs2
Sent from my LT28at using xda app-developers app
Is ZL's fate going to be ended up like xperia ion? I see similar patterns in sony's way of working, Xperia S and Xperia ion, ion gets neglected. Now Z and ZL, ZL gets updates slower the Z. I thought both of them got .307 firmware certified together? Btw, xperia ion's screen contast is better the xperia S, similarity ZL's screen is better then Z!! Wth..
This is not the end of ZL yet...
mybe because Z is more popular than ZL..
thats why sony gives more to Z than ZL..
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Hopefully, how i hope the .307 upgrade will give me the colours of Xperia ion. lol
Damn what a bunch of crying babies around!!!!!! Jesuschrist!!
Everyday I see a new post about Sony updates and ****.. Why didn't you buy a SG4 an HTC or something different? For real. The past years I have been rolling Samsung and it was the same story... Now since I've got my ZL I've received 2 updates in less than 2 months... What else you want.? Seriously guys stop this trolling and get yourself a nexus if you are looking for constant updates... No hard feelings for real..
Sent from my ZL [email protected]
Lonzo_SGS2_506 said:
Damn what a bunch of crying babies around!!!!!! Jesuschrist!!
Everyday I see a new post about Sony updates and ****.. Why didn't you buy a SG4 an HTC or something different? For real. The past years I have been rolling Samsung and it was the same story... Now since I've got my ZL I've received 2 updates in less than 2 months... What else you want.? Seriously guys stop this trolling and get yourself a nexus if you are looking for constant updates... No hard feelings for real..
Sent from my ZL [email protected]
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While I agree with your message, I would have posted it in a slightly nicer tone. Sony has been great with updates, so far. They're fixing issues and improving upon current features. What else can you ask for? These updates are FREE, we paid for the phone as is and that is for any phone you buy.
ryude said:
While I agree with your message, I would have posted it in a slightly nicer tone. Sony has been great with updates, so far. They're fixing issues and improving upon current features. What else can you ask for? These updates are FREE, we paid for the phone as is and that is for any phone you buy.
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Click to collapse
Cool bro:thumbup:
Sent from my ZL [email protected]
+1
we probably have here one type of firmware update addiction by some of the participants of forum Seriously, I think Xperia ZL is one hell of a phone out of a box and we are already getting updates. I am also not totally satisfied with everything, but who/what is perfect ? In such cases I always remember the movie Some Like It Hot and last sentence: "Nobody's Perfect" and then is everything easier for me
Sry for offtopic
chill bro, its just a casual remark that i merely hope for only, because a saw a major screen contrast improvement in the Z after the update and hope that ZL would get it too. No body is complaining, Btw, Singapore has Speech freedom . Ofcos i do like ZL, if not i would not sell my Z away for a ZL !! Perheps as someone said, Z is more Popular thats why its getting updates faster, i just do really hope ZL would not be neglected. You see, SONY phones are real slow here in Singapore, i cant even find a decent case/ pouch here! Worst of all, the sales person at SONY CENTER told me that they will not be bringing in any ZLs any more due to the low demand. So chill bro, i would appreciate a nicer tone. No heart feelings.
finoqq84 said:
chill bro, its just a casual remark that i merely hope for only, because a saw a major screen contrast improvement in the Z after the update and hope that ZL would get it too. No body is complaining, Btw, Singapore has Speech freedom . Ofcos i do like ZL, if not i would not sell my Z away for a ZL !! Perheps as someone said, Z is more Popular thats why its getting updates faster, i just do really hope ZL would not be neglected. You see, SONY phones are real slow here in Singapore, i cant even find a decent case/ pouch here! Worst of all, the sales person at SONY CENTER told me that they will not be bringing in any ZLs any more due to the low demand. So chill bro, i would appreciate a nicer tone. No heart feelings.
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+1 LoL. I have xperia Ion and know the feeling
still no signs of .307..
mmm I feel the same with the S2 when the S3 has 4.1.2 and the S2 no have a announced update (now has 4.2.2) wait only wait the ZL and Z are now the flag phones for Sony. and the phone (for the date of the topic) the .256 is from 28 for May? what do you want a Upgrade per every week? my Ex phone the Galaxy SIII has 4.1.2 and 4.2.2 Leak on the 4.1.2 Update now is updated every 3 weeks and is the same for the before update! any new function or a interesting thing same bug same problems etc... if you want update secured go to nexus or Cyanogen. this phone have 2 months in the market And the last update on 27 Of may do you think this phone is Abandoned or anything else?
Whatever AOSP Program for the Z is a placebo I don't Believe so much on that programs from the companies.
Sorry My English if is bad
And other thing Sony make the options for AOSP this phone has Cyanogen full working that thing in Samsung never happen after Months for Work for the Developers and the open source programs not is good
Rodro said:
mmm I feel the same with the S2 when the S3 has 4.1.2 and the S2 no have a announced update (now has 4.2.2) wait only wait the ZL and Z are now the flag phones for Sony. and the phone (for the date of the topic) the .256 is from 28 for May? what do you want a Upgrade per every week? my Ex phone the Galaxy SIII has 4.1.2 and 4.2.2 Leak on the 4.1.2 Update now is updated every 3 weeks and is the same for the before update! any new function or a interesting thing same bug same problems etc... if you want update secured go to nexus or Cyanogen. this phone have 2 months in the market And the last update on 27 Of may do you think this phone is Abandoned or anything else?
Whatever AOSP Program for the Z is a placebo I don't Believe so much on that programs from the companies.
Sorry My English if is bad
And other thing Sony make the options for AOSP this phone has Cyanogen full working that thing in Samsung never happen after Months for Work for the Developers and the open source programs not is good
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Period!
Sent from my ZL [email protected]
randy_c said:
+1 LoL. I have xperia Ion and know the feeling
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Me too.. I got my Ion just a few hours.. It's used anyway but still looks like new, so i decided to bought it for my sister..
Yes, Ion is another devices that not so popular..
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
daniLaLaLaLaLa said:
Me too.. I got my Ion just a few hours.. It's used anyway but still looks like new, so i decided to bought it for my sister..
Yes, Ion is another devices that not so popular..
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
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Good brother I bet she's happy to have one.
randy_c said:
Good brother I bet she's happy to have one.
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btw, Ion and ZL is a rare device now.. take good care of it :thumbup:
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Less updates means less things need fixing! I have a Nexus 4 and the ZL and even though the Nexus 4 gets the latest and greatest Google software, I still like the ZL more. I would have probably liked the Z too, but there's still no T-Mobile US compatible model out yet, and the ZL is cheaper.
I get a lot of compliments on it, it's very unique.
havanahjoe said:
Less updates means less things need fixing! I have a Nexus 4 and the ZL and even though the Nexus 4 gets the latest and greatest Google software, I still like the ZL more. I would have probably liked the Z too, but there's still no T-Mobile US compatible model out yet, and the ZL is cheaper.
I get a lot of compliments on it, it's very unique.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Period!
Sent from my ZL [email protected]
The reason ZL recieved less updates is that it has less things to be fixed. The first update which was .434 was released on Z and ZL at same time as both devices suffered from sudden death issue. ZL also has the white balance setting from start which Z got in .253 update. Even ZL has slightly better display than Z. ZL's .253 update was just for colour correction and some camera improvement. And for .307 update, it only has speed dial setting and not even all variants of Z have got this update. So now that Z and ZL are equal in stability and fixes sony will release the later updates at same time for both of these devices
And most important!! You wont get any other 5inch device in such small frame
Havnt I told you! ZL got 4.2.2 update before Z
R4GE199 said:
Havnt I told you! ZL got 4.2.2 update before Z
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Click to collapse
OMG!!! And as u said BEFORE the XZ ... just waiting to get home to update via PCC
Sent from my C6506 using xda app-developers app
Well maybe a lot of us we now that today Google anunced the next Android and noo its not 5.0 Key lime pie it's Kit kat 4.4....
since qualcomm does not release drivers an we are for that screwed up to be on 4.1.2 (and not andorid 4.3 or at least 4.2) ans that sony it's a sh*t in updates
You think that we are going to recive it?
the great "slogan" of kitkat "It's our goal with Android KitKat to make an amazing Android experience available for everybody."
wat you do you think or expecta abour that?
Personally i think that will remplace the old 2.3 to 4.4 and the JB to 4.4 will add a lot more of features andd the fragmentation will be "gone" and all in 4.4, but then i think so twice and F*ck if sony cant give us 4.2 and 4.3 because of qualcom we will stay in 4.1 :S
OFFICIALLY, I don't think so. But i believe the developer in XDA will sort it out, somehow. Oh by the way, i'm fine with 4.1.2.
The Xperia S is getting older by the day, so I don't think that there will be any chance of an official 4.4 update for our phone. I do think that developers will create some 4.4 ROMs for it, though. I wish I could try out the selection of ROMs out there, but my bootloader can not be unlocked.
We can only count for Rayman and letama in this situation
In my view it is not going to happen. When will they release kitkat? 2014?
These phones just get too old...
i dont see any point about "the phone is old".
so what? yes it's getting older, but it doesn't mean lost all capability for running new OS.
in my opinion, it just marketing strategy from manufacturer, they want our money. so they stop support for "old" hardware. Of course, they can create new software for our old xperia with additional budget if they want to do so, but they raise nothing.
i didn't blame qualcomm or sony. this is very logic marketing strategy from manufacturer, i will doing the same if i'm the CEO.
SFU11 said:
i dont see any point about "the phone is old".
so what? yes it's getting older, but it doesn't mean lost all capability for running new OS.
in my opinion, it just marketing strategy from manufacturer, they want our money. so they stop support for "old" hardware. Of course, they can create new software for our old xperia with additional budget if they want to do so, but they raise nothing.
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Click to collapse
Never said it lost capability, and I agree, it is most likely a marketing strategy to end support for old products and push for people to fork out money for their newer product range.
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app
if sony isn't releasing more software updates, at least we can ask them to unlock our bootloaders when they drop support?
SFU11 said:
i dont see any point about "the phone is old".
so what? yes it's getting older, but it doesn't mean lost all capability for running new OS.
in my opinion, it just marketing strategy from manufacturer, they want our money. so they stop support for "old" hardware. Of course, they can create new software for our old xperia with additional budget if they want to do so, but they raise nothing.
i didn't blame qualcomm or sony. this is very logic marketing strategy from manufacturer, i will doing the same if i'm the CEO.
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Click to collapse
Well I still partly blame Qualcomm, and Sony shouldn't have used such an old SoC. But if I really cared, I wouldn't have bought this phone, it's still miles ahead of the armv6 thing I had before. Anyway, you're right it's partly marketing, they want to sell new phones. And it's still a management problem. You can't just conjure up firmware, some developer needs to make it. Sony has a lot of models to support so developers have to be reassigned to newer models.
But that's part of the problem, I don't get why Sony makes such an abundant amount of models. Instead of making something like the Xperia L or M, they could still make the Xperia S and sell that for about the same price (and XS is way better specced than XL). Something like Samsung does with their Galaxy S (insert number) Advance/Plus/Whatever phones. I thought Sony was going to concentrate on the high-end market, but they keep on making those BS cheap phones that make Android look bad. I'm sure Sony could manufacture and sell an Xperia S or T for about €200 right now.
waiflih said:
if sony isn't releasing more software updates, at least we can ask them to unlock our bootloaders when they drop support?
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Don't blame Sony on that one. It's your provider demanding a locked bootloader and you bought it through them (probably sponsored with your subscription plan). I don't usually tell people to get a Samsung, but next time you get a phone with your subscription, get one with a bootloader that's less secure. I know the 2011 Xperia's were easier to unlock, but that was no excuse to just blindly assume the 2012 line is (if you even researched that). I heard that some Samsung phones have secure bootloaders in the US though, so even that party might be over. In general though I'd advise you to get a SIM-only subscription and be the boss over your own phone (and yeah that could mean paying €400 instead of €100 for your phone, you want an unlockable bootloader or not? At least you save on the cheaper subscription)
waiflih said:
if sony isn't releasing more software updates, at least we can ask them to unlock our bootloaders when they drop support?
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Click to collapse
Good idea but I like more to a refined campaign give my Xperia S for a discount for Xperia SP, or Z o ZL, but the bootloader it's not a bad idea
But it was supposed that key lime pie will be able do fit on a 512 ram phone if really its the case then 2.3 will jump to 5.0(and Xperia of 2011 should have to) but it's not 5.0 it's 4.4 and referring to the slogan "It's our goal with Android KitKat to make an amazing Android experience available for everybody." I hope that in October give us a good idea of what means
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
Redstarr1 said:
Don't blame Sony on that one. It's your provider demanding a locked bootloader and you bought it through them (probably sponsored with your subscription plan). I don't usually tell people to get a Samsung, but next time you get a phone with your subscription, get one with a bootloader that's less secure. I know the 2011 Xperia's were easier to unlock, but that was no excuse to just blindly assume the 2012 line is (if you even researched that). I heard that some Samsung phones have secure bootloaders in the US though, so even that party might be over. In general though I'd advise you to get a SIM-only subscription and be the boss over your own phone (and yeah that could mean paying €400 instead of €100 for your phone, you want an unlockable bootloader or not? At least you save on the cheaper subscription)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not complaining with the updates so far. I think they did a good job (although a bit late) with the updates, but if the phone is able to run the new android versions, they could give us a chance. Also, after they drop support the subscription period will be over, so the phone will be 100% ours.
This is just like what people did to apple when the iPod 3 came out. People wanted all the awesome features of 3.1.2 on the iPod touch 2 the multi tasking and what not and apple said it couldn't handle it. Well an official 3.1.2 came out for the iPod 2 and my god was it buggy slow choppy and all around ****. Sometimes it is just too much for the device to handle, note that I may be wrong for the iOS version that first had multitasking but that's besides the point
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
thanitos said:
This is just like what people did to apple when the iPod 3 came out. People wanted all the awesome features of 3.1.2 on the iPod touch 2 the multi tasking and what not and apple said it couldn't handle it. Well an official 3.1.2 came out for the iPod 2 and my god was it buggy slow choppy and all around ****. Sometimes it is just too much for the device to handle, note that I may be wrong for the iOS version that first had multitasking but that's besides the point
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Well you get a point but it's like put JB Into a Xperia x8 it can't handle it because of ram, internal storage etc but for example the Xperia S ( it's the device I have) it can handle 4.3 but it does not came we have to wait and see if " for everyone" really it is and tat means lower requirements in older phones, not for having 1 year they can't handle it(look the nexus4 it's old and update)
And well for that they make proves(well Sony make them with the customer) and if not f*ck we will port it XD
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
To TS
Please add ion into it...I feel like my device is forgotten
Sent from my LT28h using xda premium
Let's just hope we get KitKat..
And also soon, not a year later..
so people this was one of the reason so i sold my xperia sl yesterday and bought brand new xperia t at least it will get 4.3 confirmed or hopefully 4.4 also
n70shan said:
so people this was one of the reason so i sold my xperia sl yesterday and bought brand new xperia t at least it will get 4.3 confirmed or hopefully 4.4 also
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Click to collapse
Xperia T hasn't 4.3 update confirmed yet bro, but it will most probably get it.
Want Android 4.4? Tell that to Qualcomm.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
lee480 said:
Want Android 4.4? Tell that to Qualcomm.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Stupid Qualcomm they f*ck up our 4.2 and 4.3 for Xperia s,so,Arco s bla bla
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
IMO SONY wont give a 4.2 update but if that happens,beers to SONY team.oops,i mean cheers :good: to SONY team.as the present android 4.1 official update is great but with some minor not so noticable bugs :laugh: i dont have any idea of what android 4.4 KITKAT will bring but i bet we will get it from great developers at xda.we will atleast get a AOSP based nightlty beta rom because XPERIA S is a very strong and fast phone though all say LOW BENCHMARKS and SNAPDRAGON S3,but i know its still faster and can handle next android versions without any hiccups.why the heck they decide to stop giving updates even the device is fully capable.x10 mini pro left with android 2.1,but the android 2.3 rom runs much faster and better battery life why some left at 2.3 and some at 4.3 ? i hate this fact
Hi,
After a long relationship with Xperia ARC ,had bought it in 2011. still happy with it and plan to keep it and move on to
some new device.
i'm willing to spend upto $750. i have xperia z1 in mind. please share your views about any other brands or makes
your suggestions will help me buy a better phone .
thanks in advance
Buy samsung s4 ... you will get you OS update soon enough. except apple & sammy , all OEM sucks with update.(tested)
I´m like you. Xperia arc since 2011. I´m going to buy the new nexus 5. Don´t buy sony, as you experienced in xperia arc, after one year no updates (also on my girlfriend xperia s). And the most important clean android (not like samsung)
Me personally,i'm gonna wait until nexus 5 gets out or nexus 4,nexus devices gets updates since they from google,right??? I mean i know lg makes them but...
Sent from my Xperia Arc LT15i using XDA
Like choosing a ROM, each phone has a specific selling point. You can't exactly pinpoint which phone is the best of all, so just find one that suits your needs.
僕のLT18iから送られてきた
I feel u must go for the nexus 5 if u want to stay updated with the latest and cleanest android OS
Else Z1 is a great choice
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app
well after a long thought and thanks to input by you guys and the various posts on other device xda forum boards i
have decided to go with nexus 5 , hope google announces it early in my country.
is it possible to get a used R800 for around 60 USD?
i don't think so
used xperia plays are about 100$ i think
and also i will tell you don't buy this phone
but an arc instead of this phone
xperia play section is dead
I'm pretty sure you can look on eBay for Plays. The R800x's sell for steroids 60 and below.
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
R800x are dirt cheap on eBay, you can get it for even less than $60. It's a lot easier top unlock them the R800a version too.
Don't listen to the guy in second post. Not even sure why you're in a forum of the same device you're telling others to not buy. So what if there are no more updates, doesn't mean the device is useless. Besides it's incorrect to say there are n I devs working on it.
sent via tapatalk
im on this device because i made a mistake
i didnt buy galaxy s2 when i could and now i have to deal with my phone (now the touchscreen is broken and im going to move to nexus 5 soon)
i only told him my experience
when he can buy an arc with the same price what can cause him to buy xperia play?
being much heavier or the old 2.3 android or its ancient kernel?
I bought the Xperia play in August this year because it was a sale (100$) new and I needed a new phone. I actually regret this choice I thought more. Developers would work on this amazing device .
Dont blame it on the devs, blame it on sony for not releasing sources
Sent from my GN5 [D821] using XDA Premium
Be happy that there are devs even making roms for it, you aren't self entitled to any of it.
This phone work fine if you know how to customise it. Unlock the bootloader and install NXT rom, it work great if you don't mind sticking with Gingerbread.
sent via tapatalk
pedyvirus said:
i don't think so
used xperia plays are about 100$ i think
and also i will tell you don't buy this phone
but an arc instead of this phone
xperia play section is dead
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Click to collapse
... i don't.... you realise the arc has no physical controls and will suck for playing games and emulators right?
eksasol said:
R800x are dirt cheap on eBay, you can get it for even less than $60. It's a lot easier top unlock them the R800a version too.
Don't listen to the guy in second post. Not even sure why you're in a forum of the same device you're telling others to not buy. So what if there are no more updates, doesn't mean the device is useless. Besides it's incorrect to say there are n I devs working on it.
sent via tapatalk
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Click to collapse
I do need the AT&T version to work with my sim.
i was looking at this one but, wasn't sure if it was stole and or could even be re used.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/att-sony-er...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
friend said if it was stolen it could be blocked form the AT&T network.
Also what features do the modded roms provide? overclocking? are they lighter? support newer apps?
cdoublejj said:
... i don't.... you realise the arc has no physical controls and will suck for playing games and emulators right?
I do need the AT&T version to work with my sim.
i was looking at this one but, wasn't sure if it was stole and or could even be re used.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/att-sony-er...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
friend said if it was stolen it could be blocked form the AT&T network.
Also what features do the modded roms provide? overclocking? are they lighter? support newer apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to be careful buying from ebay. There are scenario where you can get a device that work now, then 2months later gets blocked by the carrier because the owner stopped paying his bills.
It's better if its a retailer with good feedbacks and accept returns. If it's possible, ask the person for the imei number so you can check it background, or ask him to check it and post a screenshot. You can check imei and esn numbers via these sites:
http://sndeep.info/en
http://checkesnfree.com
Also if you buy from swappa.com, they auto check imei number for all devices, however, again, it doesn't prevent the phone from being blacklisted if the owner of the phone is still in a contract and stopped paying.
You will want to get the R800a version since the R800i version will not work with 3G for ATT. I have owned all 3 versions, last I check, you can only unlock bootloader from Sony website for the R800i and R800x, not R800a. However, this website can unlock both sim and bootloader for the R800a I believe: http://www.wotanserver.com/en/sony-ericsson/xperia-play-r800/unlock-tool/debranding-flash
You basically get improved performance and more software features with custom roms. From my experience using Gingerbread custom roms like NXT gives best performance. Because lack of support from Sony and Qualcomm, ICS and JB roms aren't as fast.
You can check these guides for all the instruction with unlocking and installing rom: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1836530
You need to unlock bootloader, flash a custom kernel which will have ClockworkMod recovery integrated, boot into CWM recovery and flash the rom. Make sure the kernel you're using is compatible with that rom for it to boot.
eksasol said:
You have to be careful buying from ebay. There are scenario where you can get a device that work now, then 2months later gets blocked by the carrier because the owner stopped paying his bills.
It's better if its a retailer with good feedbacks and accept returns. If it's possible, ask the person for the imei number so you can check it background, or ask him to check it and post a screenshot. You can check imei and esn numbers via these sites:
http://sndeep.info/en
http://checkesnfree.com
Also if you buy from swappa.com, they auto check imei number for all devices, however, again, it doesn't prevent the phone from being blacklisted if the owner of the phone is still in a contract and stopped paying.
You will want to get the R800a version since the R800i version will not work with 3G for ATT. I have owned all 3 versions, last I check, you can only unlock bootloader from Sony website for the R800i and R800x, not R800a. However, this website can unlock both sim and bootloader for the R800a I believe: http://www.wotanserver.com/en/sony-ericsson/xperia-play-r800/unlock-tool/debranding-flash
You basically get improved performance and more software features with custom roms. From my experience using Gingerbread custom roms like NXT gives best performance. Because lack of support from Sony and Qualcomm, ICS and JB roms aren't as fast.
You can check these guides for all the instruction with unlocking and installing rom: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1836530
You need to unlock bootloader, flash a custom kernel which will have ClockworkMod recovery integrated, boot into CWM recovery and flash the rom. Make sure the kernel you're using is compatible with that rom for it to boot.
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you say that as if it might be difficult or impossible to unlock the boot loader unless i pay some one? also are you saying all the aftermarket roms are slower than the stock rom? does it even mater since it can be overclocked with 3rd party rom?
cdoublejj said:
you say that as if it might be difficult or impossible to unlock the boot loader unless i pay some one?
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To unlock the bootloader of a R800a there is a unlock code that needed to be purchased from Sony themselves, that is why the service cost money. You either have to go through Sony or pay a third party service, those are the only options.
also are you saying all the aftermarket roms are slower than the stock rom? does it even mater since it can be overclocked with 3rd party rom?
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That is not what I am saying, I'm saying GB run faster on this device from my experience only, compared to ICS and newer. There were never any official ICS release for the Play except a beta ICS version which ran poorly, the phone was stop being updated with Gingerbread. Sony and Qualcomm doesn't release some of the required hardware drivers for ICS/JB which is why its hard to make those version run fast.
You should have researched this device a little more before buying.
eksasol said:
To unlock the bootloader of a R800a there is a unlock code that needed to be purchased from Sony themselves, that is why the service cost money. You either have to go through Sony or pay a third party service, those are the only options.
That is not what I am saying, I'm saying GB run faster on this device from my experience only, compared to ICS and newer. There were never any official ICS release for the Play except a beta ICS version which ran poorly, the phone was stop being updated with Gingerbread. Sony and Qualcomm doesn't release some of the required hardware drivers for ICS/JB which is why its hard to make those version run fast.
You should have researched this device a little more before buying.
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Thank you for the information and the clarification. This sort of is my research. Half of the research was know what phone i'd want and one that works with AT&T. a side from androids with slide out keyboards this is the only option with physical controls and the only one that has controls good for gaming. that and the fact it has single core and can play games is all i really know about it. i figured it wasp popular enough to have some roms for it but, that's it.
i'll take a look at the cost of the unlock service assuming i don't have to mail it to the UK (live in US). i'll consider the unlock price and try to find a cheap r800a/r800at.
Your info has been REALLY helpful aside from my current crap Pantec P8000 my last serious smart phone was the 2006 Black Jack. Suffice to say iv'e been out of the phone game for a while.
cdoublejj said:
Thank you for the information and the clarification. This sort of is my research. Half of the research was know what phone i'd want and one that works with AT&T. a side from androids with slide out keyboards this is the only option with physical controls and the only one that has controls good for gaming. that and the fact it has single core and can play games is all i really know about it. i figured it wasp popular enough to have some roms for it but, that's it.
i'll take a look at the cost of the unlock service assuming i don't have to mail it to the UK (live in US). i'll consider the unlock price and try to find a cheap r800a/r800at.
Your info has been REALLY helpful aside from my current crap Pantec P8000 my last serious smart phone was the 2006 Black Jack. Suffice to say iv'e been out of the phone game for a while.
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You won't have to mail in the device, I didn't use the WotanServer service, but other members have tried with success, it should be something you can do using their software.
The only difficult part is getting the drivers recognized by your PC. I was not able to get the drivers recognized with Windows 8, you might have to use Windows 7 or older. The unlocking software will have the drivers included though. But if you read through the flashing guides I linked it should show you how to install the necessary drivers.
Personally I don't use the Play as my daily driver, but as a back up. A lot of apps I use required Android 4+, and I only feel Android 2.x is fast enough on this device for me, but others might disagree. It's not fast enough to play many of the newer graphic demanding games smoothly, but for 2D and not too demanding games it's a winner.
There are several hardware issues that can occur with this phone like the 'flex cable' going bad, which is the cable that connect between to two halves of the phone. But honestly I've never had that issue from the 5 Play that I used. It's actually one of the more durable smartphone I've used even with the sliding mechanism. If you get protection accessories for it and be careful each time you side out the gamepad it should last. It have one of the most durable microUSB port for an Android phone I think.
Also it have excellent stereo speaker. The R800i/R800a version have pretty decent GPS signal, since it also support GLONASS. The R800x do not support GLONASS and have poorer signal.
My preferred idea is still to buy a cheap Verizon R800x for $60 or less, which bootloader can be unlocked from Sony website. Then buy a better daily driver phone. One thing you should know about the R800x is that it can run any of the GSM (R800i/R800a) Gingerbread roms and most kernels, you lose calling ability with GSM roms but you won't be using Verizon anyway. For ICS/JB/KitKat roms, there are usually CDMA version for it as well. It's pretty hard to brick to this device, you can always use Flashtool to restore factory stock image. I feel the R800x version is fastest since it actually use stock Android, compared to the R800i/a which uses Sony UI overlay. It's "fast" even with stock rom and stock kernel, just rooting and deleting bloatwares are enough. You don't need unlocked bootloader to root.
well if i was gonna carry 2 devices i'd just get a used PSP (possibly for free).
it isn't too bad performance wise i've seen it play crazy taxi and GTA III and jetset radio which are them sot demanding android games i want. i've also seen it play Need for Speed 3 on the PS1 emulator. also you can overclock on the custom roms.
it's also said it has long battery life, i may have read that in this thread 9o've had a long evening). I've replaced a flex cable in A* phone before so it breaks i'm not be SOL.
My newly obstacle is getting it on the cheap.
the only thing i'm un sure about is the on screen keyboard. i have a low resolution device and tend to the use physical keyboard more than the screen. i know R800 is higher resolution than the device i have now so maybe i will be able to cope. not a bad trade off consider all the other pluses and pro vs the cons.
EDIT: too bad they never made the PSP phone 2.
cdoublejj said:
well if i was gonna carry 2 devices i'd just get a used PSP (possibly for free).
it isn't too bad performance wise i've seen it play crazy taxi and GTA III and jetset radio which are them sot demanding android games i want. i've also seen it play Need for Speed 3 on the PS1 emulator. also you can overclock on the custom roms.
it's also said it has long battery life, i may have read that in this thread 9o've had a long evening). I've replaced a flex cable in A* phone before so it breaks i'm not be SOL.
My newly obstacle is getting it on the cheap.
the only thing i'm un sure about is the on screen keyboard. i have a low resolution device and tend to the use physical keyboard more than the screen. i know R800 is higher resolution than the device i have now so maybe i will be able to cope. not a bad trade off consider all the other pluses and pro vs the cons.
EDIT: too bad they never made the PSP phone 2.
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The R800i/a stock keyboards have gesture typing, but its not very good. But you can buy Swype keyboard which is pretty good, maybe Swiftkey support Gingerbread as well. A lot of Play and other Sony devices have a layer of screen protector installed by the manufacturer, removing it can help with the touch sensitivity and sometimes viewing angle.
This device does have decent battery life, but you should get a new battery.