Looking at the A100 - Acer Iconia Tab A100

Hey everyone!
I've been looking at the A100 lately, as I have the ability to obtain one (new) for $75 and change (after a credit with the store). However, after reading this thread a bit, I'm concerned about the emmc issue.
Has Acer released any updated models that don't have this issue, do they all have this issue (at some point)? It's the only reason I would avoid it and look at different models. Is there an assembly date to watch for? lol I'd like to get one, but would rather avoid an issue like this, as I enjoy modding devices and don't want to run into warranty issues trying to have faulty tech replaced.
Any help/clarification would be greatly appreciated!

heX79 said:
Hey everyone!
I've been looking at the A100 lately, as I have the ability to obtain one (new) for $75 and change (after a credit with the store). However, after reading this thread a bit, I'm concerned about the emmc issue.
Has Acer released any updated models that don't have this issue, do they all have this issue (at some point)? It's the only reason I would avoid it and look at different models. Is there an assembly date to watch for? lol I'd like to get one, but would rather avoid an issue like this, as I enjoy modding devices and don't want to run into warranty issues trying to have faulty tech replaced.
Any help/clarification would be greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as we can tell they all have the same run of emmc memory, so in theory are all prone to it. Some protection can be found in the godmachine kernels and recovery, though. Mine hasn't bricked a second time since using a modified version of his kernels.

pio_masaki said:
As far as we can tell they all have the same run of emmc memory, so in theory are all prone to it. Some protection can be found in the godmachine kernels and recovery, though. Mine hasn't bricked a second time since using a modified version of his kernels.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick response! I've done some searching but can't seem to find any info on godmachine's recovery (unless I mistakenly overlooked it)? I can find his kernel (v2.0) and it appears to be installed via TWRP (which is fine).
This leaves me to assume that after unlocking the bootloader via the A200 replacement, I should just install TWRP, then flash godmachines kernel? (all this of course, after doing the ICS upgrade out of the box).

This is what I told a friend of mine who was thinking of getting one:
Depending on how much credit you are using, I would not spend more than $120 total for an A100 with all the new 7" tablets coming out with xmas and black friday on the way. I highly doubt you will get any more updates from acer with the new tablets they are releasing.
Pro:
Tegra2 chipset is great. ICS/JB runs really well. HDMI out works so this tablet acts as my portable media player (netflix, hulu, streaming from nas) to keep the kids busy. Games run well.
Con:
Emmc issue, bad viewing angle (even if it is only one really bad angle, the others are not so great either), low resolution, SOD, bad battery time (at least it charges really fast though), and worst of all, the touch screen issues. There are just some spots on the tablet that it takes 3-4 tries to work. build.prop also needs to be changed to show A500 for some games to be available.
As for development here on xda (with respect to pio_masaki and his private works) its safe to say that its pretty much dead. Good news is that the CM10 we have works almost flawlessly and Flexreaper rom is as solid as it gets.

Thanks for the feedback. I think, for now, I'll wait till the holidays arrive and see if other models come down in price. The Tegra 2 and dual core seemed a pretty decent combo for the price. The emmc issue is a complete turn-off, and was an absolute downer to read! But there is some possible hope for that with godmachines kernel.
I haven't read into it enough to have discovered the touch screen issues you mentioned, that is also going in the turn-off section.
Maybe I'll see what happens price wise with the Nexus 7 in December.
Thanks for the quick replies and helpful info! I'm still tempted, but will hold off on a purchase for now.

heX79 said:
Thanks for the quick response! I've done some searching but can't seem to find any info on godmachine's recovery (unless I mistakenly overlooked it)? I can find his kernel (v2.0) and it appears to be installed via TWRP (which is fine).
This leaves me to assume that after unlocking the bootloader via the A200 replacement, I should just install TWRP, then flash godmachines kernel? (all this of course, after doing the ICS upgrade out of the box).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I let all the OTA ICS updates install, then rooted, then unlocked the bootloader, then installed TWRP, I then
used TWRP to install CM10, Jelly Bean optimized Kernel for A100, and pio_masaki's Gapps all at the same time,
I hope the "disabled MMC_CAP_ERASE function" does the job. :fingers-crossed:

Related

Slow development ?

Hi,
i was considering buy an A100 but was surprised to see very little or no development for this tablet. Any particular reasons for it?
Sent from my GT-I9001 using XDA App
@sahilkhurana:
The particular reason is that Android 4.0 is supposed to be available on the A100 "early" in the New Year.
jschall said:
@sahilkhurana:
The particular reason is that Android 4.0 is supposed to be available on the A100 "early" in the New Year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really do hope deving kicks off after ICS. If not i will sell this tab despite being such an amazing specd tab at fantastic price and buy a kindle fire.
jay_993 said:
I really do hope deving kicks off after ICS. If not i will sell this tab despite being such an amazing specd tab at fantastic price and buy a kindle fire.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think I could use a kindle fire, it doesn't have a volume rocker, Bluetooth, GPS, or a sdcard slot. I agree this needs more development, but until you we either have a super intelligent person crack the boot-loader, or acer unlocks it for us, we won't get any development going on this. After that gets open, its cake and bacon. (lawl)
It's not ICS preventing dev support... Its the locked and encrypted bootloader. It has been mentioned in several other thread topics that in order for anything "major" to be done to this device that the bootloader has to be unlocked.
With an unlocked bootloader you'll get alot more doors open, such as:
- Rom Manager
- The possibility of porting CM7 and when it comes out CM9
- Custom Kernels
- Over Clocking
- Custom Roms
The dev community can do custom roms (by way of DD'ing a system.img file), but its not the same and can be messy (definitely not something an average person would want to do.)
Some of the more talented "hacker" type devs that have good decryption skills could break the encryption on the bootloader or find a loop hole in it, but so far no one has managed to break it. It's not something every one or dev can do and takes a skilled hacker or someone with the right connections at Acer.
Until this happens this device will be just like the Atrix you won't see much done with it but if it does manage to get unlocked you'll see a flood of roms and things for it.
Thats what i thought as well. Well might sell this tab off soon then cuz i get too many force closes.
Oh and one more thing, you can't use the bootloader hack that was released for the A500. They are two separate devices and while similar the A500 bootloader doesn't have the same 256 bit encryption key.
If you are experiencing too many FC's then you may need to do a hard reset or if you have it rooted try fixing permissions in rom manager (rom manager still works for permissions, but nothing else since it can't load itself into the bootloader). I use this device every day for development work and have no problems, every once in a while the browser will FC, but it's usually because I've done something stupid. Games will FC because of our device's resolution too (all 10" tablets usually run games at 1280x800 our 7" runs at 1028x600)
Like for instance if i log onto xda and click on a link not only will it force close but also delete data as well. Annoying that
I have to agree on slow development but on the other hand i'm so glad I was able to root it quickly as soon as i opened it. Also to add I havent experience FC on normal operation. But I have encountered some when I try to install apps that werent made for the a100. Just as crossix metioned probably cause of resolution conflict.
Thanks a lot for the replies. Its such a shame that Acer has locked bootloader for this device.
Sent from my GT-I9001 using XDA App
why would you buy a crippled WiFi TV
jay_993 said:
I really do hope deving kicks off after ICS. If not i will sell this tab despite being such an amazing specd tab at fantastic price and buy a kindle fire.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
maby you have not noticed all the things fire dose not have IE: SD card,hdmi,non over custom ROM,and more than i have time to type
I will say this though to be able to charge over USB is nice

[Q] Boot loop problem

Hi, I have a few questions I hope you can help me with?
My wife has a galaxy nexus, stock and unrooted. It is only around 6 weeks old and last week it started crashing, turning off then getting stuck in a boot loop just displaying the starting colours. I understand this is a known problem, she has software version 4.0.2 and it says her phone is up to date.
I "fixed" her phone once with a factory reset however this time she is away with work till Friday and now has no use of her phone or contractual minuets or data ect.
To make things worst she was planning on using the sat nav and wireless tethering to her laptop. It is the second time this has happened and she has lost all faith in her phone. She can maybe upgrade the software by downloading the 4.0.4 software but she/I don't see why she should have too. She just wants a phones that does what it says on the tin without needing to mod or mess around with it.
My questions are...
Is this problem enough for her to exchange the phone for another phone all together, she fancies a One X. Has anyone here managed to exchange the phone for this reason?
If not will updating the software to 4.0.4 fix the issue for sure? She really needs a reliable phone. Maybe it will be best to send it back under the warranty but we are afraid she will get another GNex with the same issue.
Any advice will be much appreciated
Sorry for the long post and thanks for reading,
Oliver
I would just try updating it and then wipe it. If that doesn't fix the issue it's most likely a hardware issue and I would warranty the phone.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Hey there,
Well first I would suggest calming down and not reverting to hardware issues just yet, Bootloops are pretty common, especially when using phones which were meant for the (a bit) more advanced user, it's advantage is also it's flaw, being a modding monster that it is..
And this is by no means a flame - but I wouldn't want my wife to have a GN for that exact same reason, yes - she knows about flashing roms and stuff, but she needs a reliable phone, that will work and do what she needs it to do and nothing more, as opposed to me, I like to mess around a bit with my phones (also not that much, I plan to stay stock with my GN).
To your question, I don't have any experience with RMA's but it maybe worth a try.
You also mentioned she fancies the one-x.. that means she wasn't really keen on buying the GN in the first place (I believe).. and also - and don't take this the wrong way - I think she\you don't really know what the GN is all about, this isn't a phone for everybody, I mean - it is, but it's a shame to see it fall into hands that do not appreciate it for what it is, think of it as a nice new Ferrari, sure - it'll get your wife to work But she is not going to the Nurborgring to time her laps with it.. she'll complain that once in a while the clutch is too sensitive and that she cannot count on the car to take her to work every day, and that she really fancies the new Volkswagen beetle... you get my drift
Also - I believe that flashing to the 4.0.4 will sort the bootloops, which usually has everything to do with the kenrel.
Best of luck!
p.s. All of the above is said in a humoristic way!
omricn said:
Hey there,
Well first I would suggest calming down and not reverting to hardware issues just yet, Bootloops are pretty common, especially when using phones which were meant for the (a bit) more advanced user, it's advantage is also it's flaw, being a modding monster that it is..
And this is by no means a flame - but I wouldn't want my wife to have a GN for that exact same reason, yes - she knows about flashing roms and stuff, but she needs a reliable phone, that will work and do what she needs it to do and nothing more, as opposed to me, I like to mess around a bit with my phones (also not that much, I plan to stay stock with my GN).
To your question, I don't have any experience with RMA's but it maybe worth a try.
You also mentioned she fancies the one-x.. that means she wasn't really keen on buying the GN in the first place (I believe).. and also - and don't take this the wrong way - I think she\you don't really know what the GN is all about, this isn't a phone for everybody, I mean - it is, but it's a shame to see it fall into hands that do not appreciate it for what it is, think of it as a nice new Ferrari, sure - it'll get your wife to work But she is not going to the Nurborgring to time her laps with it.. she'll complain that once in a while the clutch is too sensitive and that she cannot count on the car to take her to work every day, and that she really fancies the new Volkswagen beetle... you get my drift
Also - I believe that flashing to the 4.0.4 will sort the bootloops, which usually has everything to do with the kenrel.
Best of luck!
p.s. All of the above is said in a humoristic way!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your post.
My wife wanted to upgrade her htc desire to a faster phone with bigger screen, she loves android and Google products and the Google nexus seemed like the best choice at the time (b4 the one X was released) she loved the phone till now.
The phone has twice randomly gone into a boot loop and twice we managed to get it working again both times within the week. This has caused her to lose faith in the phone. I guess the update should fix the issue but it doesn't seem to be available on her phone just yet.
A basic phone would not be enough 4 my wife, as I said in my first post she uses it to connect her laptop to the Internet and as a satnav. Also she watches youtube videos (720p screen is handy here) and for facebook.
We never had any such issues with our desires. When my wife returns home we will update her phone via pc if it doesn't void warranty (I'm sure it won't ) and hopefully the issue will be fixed for good.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Sounds like our wives can get along my wify loves her htc desire hd! and to be honest, in my opinion in many ways it's much better than the sensation I had (stock).
And by what you described, if I was your wife (lol ) I'd also go for the GN.. I trust you know how to upgrade to 4.0.4, if you need any help just say so and I'll be more than happy to help
Also - from what I know upgrading will not void you warranty, you can simply lock the bootloader once you're done upgrading if you wish.
I really wish the bootloops will stop and that you wife will continue to enjoy her GN!
Hi again
I unlocked, rooted and installed Android Revelution HD 3.0.0 (based on 4.0.4) by mike1986 on her phone.
She is happy with her phone again.
Now it's rooted she likes the extra apps she can now install like AdFree.
I have a quick noob question though..
After installing the new rom her phone it said their is an update available. I understand that she should NOT accept over the air updates now she has a custom rom, and is that right?
Cheers, Oliver
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Hey Oliver, sorry.. seems I didn't get subscription notifications on your reply...
anyway, she "can" download the update, but it will not install, it will simply give an error upon installation, the reason is the original files that the update needs to update are not there anymore, or they are but have changed, so it will just give an installation error.. that's the only downside to having a custom rom. me personally - I like mine stock at the moment
Just a quick update, I rooted, s- offed and install Arhd rom on my wife's gnex.
She says her phone is running faster/smoother than ever and has not restarted since. It's running great and she is happy again
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium

[Q] AT&T P-930 slow since ICS

Since I did the ICS update via the LG software updater my phone operates extremely slow(screen refresh, typing entry delay, etc...) and battery life is significantly lower. I do see other threads about different software versions and don't really know what a lot of it means. I also see advice on doing a factory reset after upgrading, but is this really necessary with the stock update? It's my understanding that my phone should scream because of the processor that it has. should I go back to GB or is there something I can do to make it a fast, powerful device?
Mine is 4.0.4 Android version and LG -P930-v20c-JUN-25-2012 is the software version.
Thanks in advance
Factory reset will probably solve all the problems you're having.
And the processor in this device is not a "screamer", it was about a year ago, but not any more unfortunately. It performs worse than the galaxy s 2 in most cases, mostly due to the added resolution of the screen.
That being said, I still quite like this phone, and running CM10 on it has me very happy. Once they sort the black screen of death issue (which is apparently present on many devices) it'll definitely keep me happy till I can afford a new phone (Or maybe christmas)
If you follow the steps posted here to root your phone (you'll have to unbrick it, follow the guide), and install CM9 on it, I'm sure you'll be far more impressed with your phone. The LG software sucks many dicks in my opinion, CM9 is WAY better.
hereric said:
Factory reset will probably solve all the problems you're having.
And the processor in this device is not a "screamer", it was about a year ago, but not any more unfortunately. It performs worse than the galaxy s 2 in most cases, mostly due to the added resolution of the screen.
That being said, I still quite like this phone, and running CM10 on it has me very happy. Once they sort the black screen of death issue (which is apparently present on many devices) it'll definitely keep me happy till I can afford a new phone (Or maybe christmas)
If you follow the steps posted here to root your phone (you'll have to unbrick it, follow the guide), and install CM9 on it, I'm sure you'll be far more impressed with your phone. The LG software sucks many dicks in my opinion, CM9 is WAY better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply. Can you tell me what CM9 is? i will definitely try it.
thanks again
Try factory resetting first. Yes, you have to reconfigure almost everything. But you'd have to do that anyway if you try CM9. A lot of people say that the ICS update is good after you do a factory reset, so you may like it just fine.
CM9 is Cyanogenmod9, which is a custom ROM that can be installed on this phone. But it's not the easiest process for beginners.
When you factory reset, you'll lose things like text message history and contacts (unless contacts are synced to Google, then they'll reappear after you log back in after factory resetting -- or on your SIM card).
Thanks for the info on the ROM. I'll look for a link to instructions and try it when I can afford to be without it in the event of a failure. I am technical...just not with phones.
Thanks drumist
update...reset made a significant difference in the speed. keyboard & screens work great now. still have an issue with battery though; but that seems to be standard on ics.
thanks!
MichaelWayne_71 said:
update...reset made a significant difference in the speed. keyboard & screens work great now. still have an issue with battery though; but that seems to be standard on ics.
thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It takes a while after a fresh install of this rom for the battery life to settle in. After about a week the battery life improves significantly
Sent from my LG-P930 using xda app-developers app

[Q]Planning to buy a Kindle Fire HD 8.9'

Hi All,
I'm from India and I'm planning to get a Kindle Fire HD 8.9' tablet. A friend will be getting it over as he's coming down. I'm an advanced android user with a couple of android devices and i've got experience in rooting, installing custom roms etc.I have a few doubts regarding the tablet. This tablet will be mainly used by mom, and i plan to make it as user friendly as possible.
I've gone through the FAQs, but i'm still a little confused.
1)I've read a lot about the 2nd Gen KF HD, will this affect me a lot? Is there a high possiblity of me getting the 2nd gen if i order it from amazon?
2)Since warranty is out of question, is the build quality good? I can manage with software glitches as there will be better custom roms addressing the issues, i want to know how sturdy it is.
3)Since there is no google play, i plan to remove the whole amazon eco-zone, as it's technically of no use here in india. So I've seen some CM 10 roms, although i'm not sure if they apply to the 2nd GEN.
4) Should i buy the ad supported one and then use the KindleFree Pro app? Or will the custom roms remove the ads by themselves. I'm asking this because 15$ makes quite a lot of difference.
I do have some more questions which I'll ask later on as they come up.
Regards,
CD
1) You will certainly get a 2nd generation Kindle Fire if you order it directly from Amazon, but if you plan on getting an HD8.9, it will be 2nd generation regardless of where you get it.
2) Google search "Kindle Fire drop test", "Kindle Fire stress test" or something similar and you will find plenty of reviews and videos showing how solid and sturdy the tablet is. I'm sure you will find that it meets or exceeds your expectations.
3) Development is still in it's earliest stages. There are CM10 or JB based Android ROMs for both the KF2 and the HD8.9, and are very solid with a few minor bugs that are still getting worked out on the kernel level. The Google Play store can be installed to a rooted stock device rather easily, so if the bugs involved with the custom ROMs is too much of a problem, there is no real reason to instal one unless you absolutely hate the stock UI.
4) The lockscreen ads are specific to the stock Kindle Fire firmware and never on any custom ROMs, but they can be easily be removed on a rooted stock device
soupmagnet said:
1) You will certainly get a 2nd generation Kindle Fire if you order it directly from Amazon, but if you plan on getting an HD8.9, it will be 2nd generation regardless of where you get it.
2) Google search "Kindle Fire drop test", "Kindle Fire stress test" or something similar and you will find plenty of reviews and videos showing how solid and sturdy the tablet is. I'm sure you will find that it meets or exceeds your expectations.
3) Development is still in it's earliest stages. There are CM10 or JB based Android ROMs for both the KF2 and the HD8.9, and are very solid with a few minor bugs that are still getting worked out on the kernel level. The Google Play store can be installed to a rooted stock device rather easily, so if the bugs involved with the custom ROMs is too much of a problem, there is no real reason to instal one unless you absolutely hate the stock UI.
4) The lockscreen ads are specific to the stock Kindle Fire firmware and never on any custom ROMs, but they can be easily be removed on a rooted stock device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much.
So I'll go ahead and purchase it
CosmicDance said:
Thank you very much.
So I'll go ahead and purchase it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Enjoy. Whilst we wait for fully functional CM10 ROMs (i need bluetooth) , the screen should be well enough to win you over - it is fantastic.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
I've ordered the Kindle Fire HD 8.9", fingers crossed as there isn't any warranty or service centres in my country.
CosmicDance said:
I've ordered the Kindle Fire HD 8.9", fingers crossed as there isn't any warranty or service centres in my country.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
live in argentina, they sent me a new one and i sent the not working one, you could pay nothing or only some dollars, a bit. where do you live
Sent from my KFTT using xda app-developers app
persano said:
live in argentina, they sent me a new one and i sent the not working one, you could pay nothing or only some dollars, a bit. where do you live
Sent from my KFTT using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm from India
Sent from my Sony Xperia P
Sold
soupmagnet said:
1) You will certainly get a 2nd generation Kindle Fire if you order it directly from Amazon, but if you plan on getting an HD8.9, it will be 2nd generation regardless of where you get it.
2) Google search "Kindle Fire drop test", "Kindle Fire stress test" or something similar and you will find plenty of reviews and videos showing how solid and sturdy the tablet is. I'm sure you will find that it meets or exceeds your expectations.
3) Development is still in it's earliest stages. There are CM10 or JB based Android ROMs for both the KF2 and the HD8.9, and are very solid with a few minor bugs that are still getting worked out on the kernel level. The Google Play store can be installed to a rooted stock device rather easily, so if the bugs involved with the custom ROMs is too much of a problem, there is no real reason to instal one unless you absolutely hate the stock UI.
4) The lockscreen ads are specific to the stock Kindle Fire firmware and never on any custom ROMs, but they can be easily be removed on a rooted stock device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now I'm sold. Must be best bang for buck
chindtown said:
Now I'm sold. Must be best bang for buck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Certainly best screen for buck!
Hi All,
I didn't want to start a new thread, so i felt I'll post here...
I received the KFHD 8.9" today, and i started it and first thing i noticed is that i have to register it with the amazon account, without that i couldn't use the tab like a normal android device with an app drawer. I have a few questions as a first time user of a kindle:
1) I couldn't find a way to skip the registration part, is it possible to skip it?
2) If i have to register my device with amazon, will it auto update to the latest firmware? Currently i can see the device version as v8.3.user_XXXXX is this 8.3.0 or 8.3.1?
3) Initially i want to just root the device and disable the OTA updates. I assume @soupmagnet's SoupKit will do this.(Although it's gonna be interesting as i've not used linux before)
Hope i made my doubts clear.
Regards,
CD
CosmicDance said:
Hi All,
I didn't want to start a new thread, so i felt I'll post here...
I received the KFHD 8.9" today, and i started it and first thing i noticed is that i have to register it with the amazon account, without that i couldn't use the tab like a normal android device with an app drawer. I have a few questions as a first time user of a kindle:
1) I couldn't find a way to skip the registration part, is it possible to skip it?
2) If i have to register my device with amazon, will it auto update to the latest firmware? Currently i can see the device version as v8.3.user_XXXXX is this 8.3.0 or 8.3.1?
3) Initially i want to just root the device and disable the OTA updates. I assume @soupmagnet's SoupKit will do this.(Although it's gonna be interesting as i've not used linux before)
Hope i made my doubts clear.
Regards,
CD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was in your position a few months ago. I got the tablet because of the price. They were offering it to students for $250...which was the same price as two of my books. I then found out that I couldn't even use my own e-reader. It's such a power device, but it has a terrible UI and they give you next to no control over it.
You really have no choice but to root it. After you root it, please make sure that OTAs are disabled. I spent hours trying to get my kindle back to how it was after getting caught by an OTA. A few months ago, KFfirstaid was by far the easiest root tool, but I'm not sure if it's still supported.
Once you root, you can install google play and a new launcher. That should suffice for most users.
If you want, you can install hashcode's second bootloader/TWRP . It's not that hard to follow his directions, but it's more difficult than rooting. Then you can install custom roms, but most of them are still in trial phase.
URL="http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2128175"]Hashcode's instructions[/URL]
It's well worth it to root it, but it might be more difficult to deal with than you're used to.
Hi all. I am also planning to buy one of these to use as a regular tablet. Couldn't care less about the Amazon stuff, to be honest. I'm just interested in the bigger, higher resolution screen compared to the Nexus 7.
So is it safe to assume that, once you root, disable OTA updates, install Google Apps and a new app drawer (ADW, GoLauncher, etc) this would act like any other Android device? Or are there any other quirks to take into account?
Sorry to highjack the thread, but I felt there was some common ground here
anacondo said:
Hi all. I am also planning to buy one of these to use as a regular tablet. Couldn't care less about the Amazon stuff, to be honest. I'm just interested in the bigger, higher resolution screen compared to the Nexus 7.
So is it safe to assume that, once you root, disable OTA updates, install Google Apps and a new app drawer (ADW, GoLauncher, etc) this would act like any other Android device? Or are there any other quirks to take into account?
Sorry to highjack the thread, but I felt there was some common ground here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes but I would install the CM10 ROM - the amazon stock Rom is slower and has lots of unnecessary bloat (if you do not need those features, which most do not).
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 2
apd said:
Yes but I would install the CM10 ROM - the amazon stock Rom is slower and has lots of unnecessary bloat (if you do not need those features, which most do not).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but no thanks. At least not until a stable version is released.
I plan to use the stock OS and change the UI experience by using a different drawer, add some of my favorite apps and maybe even remove some of the Amazon garbage if i'm feeling adventurous, all without compromising stability, to use it as a general android tab. I was just wondering whether this would be possible, or if there's something I'm missing.
I'd like to know now, before I shell out the 300€
anacondo said:
Thanks, but no thanks. At least not until a stable version is released.
I plan to use the stock OS and change the UI experience by using a different drawer, add some of my favorite apps and maybe even remove some of the Amazon garbage if i'm feeling adventurous, all without compromising stability, to use it as a general android tab. I was just wondering whether this would be possible, or if there's something I'm missing.
I'd like to know now, before I shell out the 300€
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's possible. You'll need to root it. You'll find it works fine (but not particularly responsively) with stock OS and a separate launcher. If you're rooting anyway and want rid of the amazon cr!p, why not install a decent ROM? it is, of course, your choice and Hashcode's CM10 has some minor issues but I use it very happily as a daily driver.
There's no recent apps button in stock but there are ways around that in the forums.
Good luck!
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 2
apd said:
It's possible. You'll need to root it. You'll find it works fine (but not particularly responsively) with stock OS and a separate launcher. If you're rooting anyway and want rid of the amazon cr!p, why not install a decent ROM? it is, of course, your choice and Hashcode's CM10 has some minor issues but I use it very happily as a daily driver.
There's no recent apps button in stock but there are ways around that in the forums.
Good luck!
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because i won't be the only person using it and i'd rather have a stable product that works just fine than the latest, bleeding edge in performance. Also, i'm a bit worried about voiding the warranty, so i'd rather not go too deep until things are more certain (proper roms, 100% support for all functionalities, etc).
How bad is responsiveness, though? This is the first time i hear of this, and the last thing i want is a laggy device. Are there any tests or reviews out there, with hard numbers?
Thanks!
anacondo said:
Because i won't be the only person using it and i'd rather have a stable product that works just fine than the latest, bleeding edge in performance. Also, i'm a bit worried about voiding the warranty, so i'd rather not go too deep until things are more certain (proper roms, 100% support for all functionalities, etc).
How bad is responsiveness, though? This is the first time i hear of this, and the last thing i want is a laggy device. Are there any tests or reviews out there, with hard numbers?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's take this step by step. To install Google play and the launcher properly you will need root. You will also need root to remove amazon crap because some of it is system crap. As with all devices, that probably voids your warranty unless you return it to stock before getting a repair done (ie so they don't find out). So I'm not sure I see the logic of the warranty issue. If you read all the rooting threads, you will gain root first time and won't have any issues.
As for responsiveness with a third party launcher on top of stock, it is still responsive and usable, but less responsive. You will also have two launchers installed because the pure Amazon apps (eg kindle) are only accessible through the Amazon launcher if you are still on stock. There are no 'hard numbers' as each person's set up will be different and, also, the benchmarks are really quite useless.
Your starting point was to use the kfhd as a regular android tablet with the stock ROM. It will act like an android tablet but one with some quirks based on the stock ROM. If you want a stock android tablet, you need to go to cm10, which requires root (which you will have already) but also a second (removeable) boot loader. Again, read the threads before doing anything and you will not have issues. Look at the issues list for cm10 on the kfhd - the only real issue now is audio input and some people complain about 3d gaming.
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire HD using Tapatalk 2
apd said:
Let's take this step by step. To install Google play and the launcher properly you will need root. You will also need root to remove amazon crap because some of it is system crap. As with all devices, that probably voids your warranty unless you return it to stock before getting a repair done (ie so they don't find out). So I'm not sure I see the logic of the warranty issue. If you read all the rooting threads, you will gain root first time and won't have any issues.
As for responsiveness with a third party launcher on top of stock, it is still responsive and usable, but less responsive. You will also have two launchers installed because the pure Amazon apps (eg kindle) are only accessible through the Amazon launcher if you are still on stock. There are no 'hard numbers' as each person's set up will be different and, also, the benchmarks are really quite useless.
Your starting point was to use the kfhd as a regular android tablet with the stock ROM. It will act like an android tablet but one with some quirks based on the stock ROM. If you want a stock android tablet, you need to go to cm10, which requires root (which you will have already) but also a second (removeable) boot loader. Again, read the threads before doing anything and you will not have issues. Look at the issues list for cm10 on the kfhd - the only real issue now is audio input and some people complain about 3d gaming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know i'll have to root, and I know it'll void my warranty. But i'm somewhat more at peace by doing just that and staying stock (maybe even removing some apps) than completely wiping off the system and installing a 2nd bootloader. I may be wrong, but wouldn't it be simpler to revert to factory settings that way, in case I need to send it back?
I've been using android for a while now. I have used several roms with three different phones. Some were great, some others not so much. I've experienced its idiosyncrasies when things are still experimental, and I'm fine rebooting my phone every once in a while, or resetting the wi-fi because the driver is not working properly, if it's all for a greater good. But as I said before, this device won't be for me only, so I'd rather have stability and functionality at the cost of raw performance, at least until a stable rom with 100% functionality is released and the process is reasonably risk-free and fool proof. The other users of this device are non-tech savvy and I'd like to keep things as simple and smooth for them as possible.
That's why I'm interested in the quirks of the amazon firmware with another drawer app on top. What would be different from stock android? We will be using it mainly for web browsing, ebook reading, video and music reproduction, emailing and the casual game. I haven't had the chance to try one of this devices yet, so I don't know what could go wrong. Maybe the back and home buttons won't work with another drawer? You mentioned something about not having access to the recent opened app list. Those are the little things I'm interested about: they may not be show stoppers but they can make the day to day experience a little bit painful.
I've also been thinking about the ipad mini because of the ui and general ease of use, but since I can get one of these for 20eur less, with double the disk space and a far better screen, I would rather not. I just wanna make sure the kindle lives to my expectations
anacondo said:
I know i'll have to root, and I know it'll void my warranty. But i'm somewhat more at peace by doing just that and staying stock (maybe even removing some apps) than completely wiping off the system and installing a 2nd bootloader. I may be wrong, but wouldn't it be simpler to revert to factory settings that way, in case I need to send it back?
I've been using android for a while now. I have used several roms with three different phones. Some were great, some others not so much. I've experienced its idiosyncrasies when things are still experimental, and I'm fine rebooting my phone every once in a while, or resetting the wi-fi because the driver is not working properly, if it's all for a greater good. But as I said before, this device won't be for me only, so I'd rather have stability and functionality at the cost of raw performance, at least until a stable rom with 100% functionality is released and the process is reasonably risk-free and fool proof. The other users of this device are non-tech savvy and I'd like to keep things as simple and smooth for them as possible.
That's why I'm interested in the quirks of the amazon firmware with another drawer app on top. What would be different from stock android? We will be using it mainly for web browsing, ebook reading, video and music reproduction, emailing and the casual game. I haven't had the chance to try one of this devices yet, so I don't know what could go wrong. Maybe the back and home buttons won't work with another drawer? You mentioned something about not having access to the recent opened app list. Those are the little things I'm interested about: they may not be show stoppers but they can make the day to day experience a little bit painful.
I've also been thinking about the ipad mini because of the ui and general ease of use, but since I can get one of these for 20eur less, with double the disk space and a far better screen, I would rather not. I just wanna make sure the kindle lives to my expectations
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what else I can add without repeating what I've said. CM10 will do exactly what you want and smoothly. Amazon stock will behave as I;ve already set out. This is no contest with the iPad Mini which is too small, with a crap screen and no ability to customise.
CosmicDance said:
Hi All,
I didn't want to start a new thread, so i felt I'll post here...
I received the KFHD 8.9" today, and i started it and first thing i noticed is that i have to register it with the amazon account, without that i couldn't use the tab like a normal android device with an app drawer. I have a few questions as a first time user of a kindle:
1) I couldn't find a way to skip the registration part, is it possible to skip it?
2) If i have to register my device with amazon, will it auto update to the latest firmware? Currently i can see the device version as v8.3.user_XXXXX is this 8.3.0 or 8.3.1?
3) Initially i want to just root the device and disable the OTA updates. I assume @soupmagnet's SoupKit will do this.(Although it's gonna be interesting as i've not used linux before)
Hope i made my doubts clear.
Regards,
CD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How's your experience been so far? Did you root using SoupKit for Linux in the end? Was it succesfull at removing the ads with version 8.3? Are you still using stock, or moved to CM10?
I seem to be in the same situation you were before buying the kindle, so I'm quite interested Would you still recommend the tablet?
Thanks!

[Q] Nexus 7 owners...... problems, fixed or not?

Guys, I was all set to get a new 32gb Nexus 7....the reviews are great, and then I start reading about the issues.
After a bit more reading, I'm left wondering if its such a good idea? I read that Google released an update, then I also read that it didn't always fix things for people?
So the questions I guess are, Do you own one? Have you had a problem? Is it now fixed by the update? Maybe you've never had any problems?
Would you recommend getting one? I don't wanna spend out on something that I'll regret.
Thanks guys.
I've had mine since the first weekend of availability and it's lived up to all my expectations and then some, you're just buying the usual support vocal minority, sume have legit issue, noisy are just being nitpicky
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk 4
Thanks, this is what I'm trying to determine...if its just a few people shouting loud, or a big issue affecting a lot.
Thanks for your reply.
Mine worked 100% out of the box, no light bleed, no multi-touch issues, no GPS issues. Updates have installed perfectly. I am running stock deodexed + root + TWRP + Elemental X 1.1 Kernel. Couldn't be happier with my purchase. :good:
I know a lot of people have reported the GPS issues and the touch issues, but I've never experienced them myself. I bought mine the day it was released, 32gb model.
madpete said:
Thanks, this is what I'm trying to determine...if its just a few people shouting loud, or a big issue affecting a lot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My suggestion is you buy from a place with a reasonable return policy.
We have no idea whether this is a 1%, 5%, 10% or more problem. Even if it were a 20% problem you would still have a huge number of people without issues, but from a product standpoint it would be very bad.
In my personal experience GPS is completely fixed on multiple units with the JSS15Q firmware.
Multi-touch is hit or miss, many units either got multi-touch fixed or saw no improvement. Some saw things get worse. You can see from the changelog history of the touchscreen firmware that they have been making various changes to address the issues, so the issues are real and acknowledged in some part.
Changelog for touchscreen firmware is available here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=44954563#post44954563
As to the random reboots, IMO there are 2 issues, one is a hardware issue and the other is one or more software issues. The hardware issue is more rare, but if you have it, it will be difficult to avoid the reboots, unless Google/Asus can find a software workaround for the problem.
With respect to the software reboot issues, you can usually avoid them by avoiding a "trigger" app. Some folks usage just never triggers the problem. Some people trigger it when using chrome. For others it is some other app. Usually when you stop using the trigger app the software reboots go away.
You need to make the decision for yourself. There will be lots of people saying no problem and lots of people saying they got multiple units all with issues.
I bought the 32gb. Works flawlessly, I got it a week and half ago.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
GET ONE
I would say go for it, you are always going to have issues with most anything. Just buy from a retailer with a good return policy, I own the nexus 7 2012 and the nexus 7 2013 , no issues here, awesome devices.
Thanks guys. Sfhub, you make some good points....think I will buy from a large high street store, rather than online.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
sfhub said:
My suggestion is you buy from a place with a reasonable return policy.
We have no idea whether this is a 1%, 5%, 10% or more problem. Even if it were a 20% problem you would still have a huge number of people without issues, but from a product standpoint it would be very bad.
In my personal experience GPS is completely fixed on multiple units with the JSS15Q firmware.
Multi-touch is hit or miss, many units either got multi-touch fixed or saw no improvement. Some saw things get worse. You can see from the changelog history of the touchscreen firmware that they have been making various changes to address the issues, so the issues are real and acknowledged in some part.
Changelog for touchscreen firmware is available here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=44954563#post44954563
As to the random reboots, IMO there are 2 issues, one is a hardware issue and the other is one or more software issues. The hardware issue is more rare, but if you have it, it will be difficult to avoid the reboots, unless Google/Asus can find a software workaround for the problem.
With respect to the software reboot issues, you can usually avoid them by avoiding a "trigger" app. Some folks usage just never triggers the problem. Some people trigger it when using chrome. For others it is some other app. Usually when you stop using the trigger app the software reboots go away.
You need to make the decision for yourself. There will be lots of people saying no problem and lots of people saying they got multiple units all with issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i think mine is definitely, hardware, maybe , cuz of user error, ie, bad dirty flashing of zips, i dont' want to start all over fresh again, too many apps/settings to revert back (yes call me lazy sob)
most of the reboots happen when im clicking on an app with wifi on , but one of my last reboots, it just just rebooted out of the blue, i didn't even touch the tablet, but i seen it reboot!
Not sure, really, whether I have/had problems or not. Got mine over the weekend. During my initial playing, I did not notice any touch issues. The GPS would lock, but I didn't have time to take it anywhere for long enough to be sure if it would stay locked for a long period of time. Almost immediately (1 day) I got the JSS15Q OTA update. The GPS DOES seem to lock a bit faster, and I seem to be seeing more satellites than before -- it could be my imagination, though. Still no touch issues that I can see.
New Nexus 7 (then) past issues, (now), Cool TAB!
phab3k said:
I know a lot of people have reported the GPS issues and the touch issues, but I've never experienced them myself. I bought mine the day it was released, 32gb model.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I HAD issues out of the box. Waited for the first update from Google, rebooted once after. Took forever to get the screen to respond to any kind of tap. Rebooted a couple of times and was able to get somewhat R E A S O N A B L E response out of the screen. GPS would work for all of 2 minutes and then shut down. No problems with Wi-Fi.
That was then, along came update: JSS15Q! All is happy in Nexus land. GPS is strong and works flawlessly even in the darkest center of my house! Screen is responsive my fingers are happy.
APPS? That is another matter, remember, even with a stock Nexus 7 fhd you are on the bleeding edge meaning that many apps found on Google Play may fail. Live with it until either the app is updated, ***** at the (no don't *****, contact the developer and kindly tell him/her your problem; or find another app that works for now.
Games? Heh, that is a real crapshoot. If it won't function, move on.
This is one hell of a tablet with excellent video, good sound, fast processing. Short of it not being the size of my 60" monitor (TV) I can read everything with these 78 year old eyes!
[email protected]@dog!
Google Nexus 7FHD
Kindle Fire Rooted Android 4.3
Kindle Fire HD 8.9 Rooted 2nd boot loader Android 4.2.2
Droid Bionic stock Android 4.1.2
Guys, just wanted to say thanks for all the posts. You help me make up my mind, and gave some sound advice.
I've took the plunge and brought the 32gb model (from a big high street retailer), and I have to say....what a cracking little tablet this thing is, I am really impressed with it. I have not had any issues with it, so I seem to be one of the lucky ones....either that or they have fixed the issues by the time we got them in the UK.
I do feel for all the people who had problems though, its a nightmare when these thing happen. Theres no doubt there has been or are some issues out there, one thing with a Nexus device I guess is it is patched fast if its sw...obviously hw is a different issue.
Looking forward to enjoying this device now, if I can get on it....have to wrestle it off the wife and kids first!
......thanks again guys.
Pete.
Just got my 32gb Nexus today in the UK. Only thing I have noticed is that tap and hold on screen is slow to react. Can take a couple of trys before it works. Sometimes taping an app is slow to open. Running stock and latest update. Only change made is to use Nova as the launcher.
Sent from my HTC One S using Tapatalk 4
To Wugfresh Re: Toolkit
This is a followup to my 2 confusing Twitter's I made it worse by referencing Nexus 4 and 7 so I will stick to 7 (mostly). I now realize that lurking has its penalties since I need 9 posts after this before I can post this in the relevant thread (with a nostalgic tear for the days we welcomed all comers and left our doors unlocked).
I bought an N7 FHD (2nd gen) and rooted it after the 4.3 auto update soft bricked (right term of art?) it. I used the other toolkit to restore it to JDQ39 factory unrooted. Then it installed JSS15J. Today it tried to do an update and (presumably) it failed because of rooting. That build is no longer on the developer's website and has been replaced by JSS15Q. I would never presume to call myself a developer but my first modem was a 300 baud acoustic coupler and I have a 5 1/2" floppy disks older then most of you and it's actually floppy. ROFL.
Back to reality, on the Nexus 4, I could not discern how to upgrade to the latest Y build but I did manage to restore it to factory settings and Google handled the rest, You were kind enough to add JSS15J to your toolkit for the Nexus 4 but it is not available (in your drop-down) for the Nexus 7. I figured that if you made JSS15J available for the N7 I could restore the N7 to a factory fresh un-rooted one and Google could update it to JSS15Q. In the alternative you might guide me to how I could go from JSS15J to JSS15Q. I am certainly not in your league but this is not my first rodeo and I cannot tell you how grateful I am for your efforts. Your toolkit saved my Nexus 4 from the 2 week wait during which Google might have told me rooting voids the warranty or just have left me phone-less till they returned it.
Again thank you especially, and to all the others here who light candles in the darkness for each other and the rest of us pilgrims. A tip of my fedora to ya. Never forget one definition of a pioneer is someone with an arrow in their back.
Much of the time I am as confused as a baby in a topless bar who said, "What do you mean this is not a lunchroom, what else could it be?"
My suggestion is to keep root, grab the latest carbon ROM, the elemental 1.1 kernel and you should be all set. They already have the updates From G in them and they work superb.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
Do you own one?
Yes, from day one.
Have you had a problem?
Yes, GPS and the touchscreen grounding issue.
Is it now fixed by the update?
Yes, GPS seems fixed.
No, grounding issue may be worse. Works fins as long as I'm holding it. Placing it causes touches to become sporadic.
Maybe you've never had any problems?
I wish...
Would you recommend getting one?
Yes, it still a FANTASTIC device and many have no issues. If you do return it right away until you get one without issues.
I spoke too soon....at first I thought everything was ok....then I began to notice when I was typing that sometimes it would come out as gibberish. I thought nothing of it as we all make typos now and then, then I noticed that press and hold didn't always register (sometimes takes a few goes). I downloaded the multi-touch test from play and to my horror it's all over the place (compared it against my note 2), this is with the latest update. After reading around a bit more, I'm beginning to think these touch screen issues are hardware....and that it's more widespread than people think. Will be exchanging it for another one, hopefully fair better second time.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
madpete said:
Will be exchanging it for another one, hopefully fair better second time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before you return, perhaps you could try this thread:
Take that multi-touch! Fix and lock in what works for YOU regardless of updates
sfhub said:
Before you return, perhaps you could try this thread:
Take that multi-touch! Fix and lock in what works for YOU regardless of updates
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey man, thanks for the reply.
I opted for the swap out because I don't want to loose the warranty, which I believe you would if you unlocked it?
I bought from PC World / Currys so the swap was no hassle.
Using the new one now, its testing better and typing and "hold and drag" is working much better (although hold and drag still isn't 100%, it's now acceptable to me).
I tested before and after the update, the observation I made is that the update seems to dull down the touch screen a little. It became slightly less responsive after the update than before, but hasn't really affected the usability on this one....although I think I prefered it pre update.

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