Develop Bugs

[Q] Based on your experience with the ZL, would you buy another Sony phone?

I'm interested to know how likely ZL owners are to buy another Sony phone in the future, based on their experience with the phone.
Consider build quality, frequency of firmware updates, reliability of software, etc.

Best
Worst
Best
Would buy another...

I'm satisfied with the ZL. My only complaint is about the poor viewing angles, but despite that, I'd surely buy another Sony.
Enviado de meu C6503 usando o Tapatalk 2

With good cam and better screen, definitely yes!
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app

Coming from a SGN and seeing my wife's SG3, I would buy Sony again. It has less bloatware and better build than Samsung. Very happy with the phone.

galaxy s4 vs xperia zl
I got 2 phones here gt i9500 and xperia zl. I thought my exynos octa core phne wil b blazing fast compared to Xperia zl but it is slower lag and have many bugs.

ryude said:
I'm interested to know how likely ZL owners are to buy another Sony phone in the future, based on their experience with the phone.
Consider build quality, frequency of firmware updates, reliability of software, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes any time,looking forward for ZR
Sent from my C6506 using xda app-developers app

Absolutely yes!
It has a good build quality, feels like a phone and not like a piece of plastic. It looks and feels very elegant and not like a toy. Except facebook there is very few bloatware, and the UI is simple, but smooth.
Frequency of updates is ok for me, because there are no major bugs in the software. I'm coming from LG Optimus 2x, believe me, LG sucks compared to sony. The software has lots of bugs and there are no updates. Without the great support of the xda community I would have sould my 2x way earlier.
But I am still waiting for 4.2, not because I am missing something, but because sony promised to deliver it soon after launch...
So at the moment I definitley would buy another sony.

Im having good experiences with my ZL.. although compared to the SGNote2 has a better wifi range, smooth UI and louder speaker.. But its also have much more bloatware that eat rams a lot.. my friends SGNote2 stock rooted tweakes has only 330MB/++ free ram compared to my ZL.. has 1.2GB/++ free ram now.. With stock untouched..
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app

I think Sony has earned a lot of respect with the Z/ZL. Sure it has it's faults, but what phone doesn't? I was curious to see if I was the only one who has been "converted". As long as Sony keeps making good phones I will buy them.

The ZL is my first Sony phone, I'd happily buy another. I feel like Sony's finally on the right path, they've gone from completely reworking the Android UI to a very minimalistic change or two, not like Samsung and HTC who still feel they need to re-write the OS.
Also, I liked how easy it was to flash a stock generic rom, got rid of the Bell bloatware the 2nd day i had it.

I had only Ericsson phones, then Sony Ericsson ones (in between one Nokia) and now first Sony i.e. Xperia ZL, and was very happy with all of them I still remember my first GA628 from late'90 ... Neither one did not need servicing. Very durable phones:good:

sarobi said:
I had only Ericsson phones, then Sony Ericsson ones (in between one Nokia) and now first Sony i.e. Xperia ZL, and was very happy with all of them I still remember my first GA628 from late'90 ... Neither one did not need servicing. Very durable phones:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, I feel so old I actually remember those phones

I certinaly would, but I wish the earpiece was louder. I can't hear anything!

Funk2641 said:
I certinaly would, but I wish the earpiece was louder. I can't hear anything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know now that you said something, I learned that call volume isn't just controlled when in the call but also the ringer volume. It could be a bug, but I notice significantly higher call volume when my ringer is turned all the way up.

Yes. Been with Sony Ericsson/Sony since "K" series.
Sent from my C6506 using xda premium

This is my first Sony phone. So far very happy with the phone best since hd2. Build quality way better than Samsung. Not sure about how frequently Sony releases firmware upgrades.

I would. This is my first sony android phone (first Sony since the t68i).
I came from the LGOG E970 which I replaced mostly because I wanted AWS Bands. My timing meant I was choosing between this, HTC and Samsung. I decided for a variety of reasons to give the ZL a shot. I bought a white 6502 (Cincinnatti Bell) which I unlocked. This allowed me to get the phone for a great price (130 more than where I sold the LG OG).
Here are my reasons:
Compared to my 4.7" OG, the ZL has a bigger screen, and is the same size to smaller in every dimension but thickness. Having used a blockly phone, I decided I'd rather have the back's curve and thickness. I hated the glass back on the OG so having a comfortable back
The HTC is too metally to feel comfortable. It is also too tall for a 4.7" phone. I also use a 64gb microSD
The SGS4 seems fine. I had the SGS3. If I had gotten the SGS4, I would have replaced the battery cover with a non-oem cover.
The ZL met my desire to at least match every spec my old phone had. I don't know if I'll keep this phone past the Snapdragon 800s/Tegra 4s but frankly, I probably wouldn't keep a snapdragon 600 once the 800 is released.
Since getting the phone, it has been fine. I put on the custom .253 rom, did not unlock the bootloader and have taken the onscreen buttons to 25px. It took a week for the battery life to normalize (for the first week, the phone battery was awful... then it seemed to normalize to an acceptable level). The phone/calendar apps seem good. I used album and walkman on my old phone so there was no learning curve to sony's superior apps (Ironically, my Google Music unlimited membership has cost walkman it's default status). It holds a bluetooth connection with my car better than the last 5 phones I've had. Now what has been the surprise is the camera. I was at my wife's birthday party (nighttime restaurant visit with family) and randomly gave the phone to take a picture on superior auto with her iphone 5. All of a sudden, I realized this is an amazing camera/app combination for both no-flash night and short range flash photography.
Things I love: Screen, small size, camera, not seeing 50 of these everyday.
Things I wish it had... 180 degree rotation (the charger port location makes me want to use the phone upside down on my desk), adjustable vibration levels (would like to use touch vibrations but softer). LG's setting to tone down the processor for battery life.
Things that annoy me: I can't get the noise suppression/speaker enhancement settings to stick after reboot. I don't know whether unlocking my bootloader is worth it (custom Kernels). I think sony's launcher is slow and use Nova's instead (I'd used stock launchers on every phone I'd owned)

The ZL is great fopr my needs, though the call quality is the worst I've ever heard. I've tried other phones in the shops, everyone is better :/

Yes I would buy other one! great phone great design! few little things here and there but love it!
Sent from my C6503 using xda premium

Should I get this phone?

It is August 3 2013 and this phone has been out for a little while now. I am looking for a new phone because I need to switch carriers. I currently have a Galaxy Note 2 and I absolutely love it. I see that Sony announced they will update it to 4.3. The screen is only 0.5" smaller then my Note 2. The Sony has a higher resolution though. The battery life doesn't seem to be a problem for most of you (I checked the battery thread). Do all of you who currently own the Sony absolutely love the phone? Do you wish you tried a different phone? I love the look of the phone.
I am stuck between the Galaxy S4, HTC one, and this ZL. The S4 seems to have a ton of bloatware that I will never use but since the Google edition was announced, I might be able to flash a stock version of android on it once they figure out the battery drain issue. Same goes for the HTC one. I love the Sony for no apparent reason. It looks like a decent phone on paper and I remember reading about how Sony is really making an effort to help out developers. They also seem to keep updating this phone (4.2.2 and 4.3).
I need to decide soon so I appreciate any responses!
Edit** was this phone really just released 4 months ago? For some reason I thought it was older.

It's your decision of course and nobody here can really make that decision for you... it's a very subjective topic and you will get 100 different "answers".
However, I'll give you my highly subjective and personal opinion... for what it's worth.
I have both the Z and ZL, a GS3 and have had an HTC One. The GS3 is a reliable and usable phone that is easy to mod. It does everything well, except the screen is really unreadable outside. The 2 particular key points for me on phones, other than the ability to function reliably as a phone, are a good notification LED and a decent FM radio. The Radio is quite passable on the GS3. I bought an HTC One to replace the GS3 and was both impressed by some aspects and seriously disappointed by others. The notification LED is a joke and the FM radio was chronically insensitive to the point of being worthless. Plus the speaker grilles didn't fit correctly. It lasted a week and then got returned.
The GS4 doesn't have an FM radio... pathetic discrimination
Anyway, on to Sony...
The Z was bought in lieu of the H1. I've always liked Sony and SE phones, they are designed in Scandinavia and it shows, certainly in the electronic design and qualification. I also bought the ZL whilst on a business trip in Germany a week or two later. Both phones are great, but I prefer the ZL - because it is physically smaller (thicker but nicer to hold), has a better screen (higher brightness and contrast plus better viewing angles), no flaps to mess about with, the Sony logo is on the phone not the ASF (gives you more options) and has a slightly better notification LED. The FM radio is fantastic on both, although for some reason the Z is more sensitive, by about 10% I reckon. I also prefer the easy access SIM and SD card slots. The loudspeaker on the ZL is not restricted by waterproofing and is thus a fair bit louder...
So for me, the ZL is my phone of choice. It does everything I need and well. Sony are quick with updates and there are no obvious bugs. The UI is rather less "Noddy" than TW and less intrusive than Sense. The call quality is excellent too, in case you need to use it as a phone!!!
So it's down to what is important to you...

That was a awesome post very informative of different phones. I just got a zl to replace my broken HTC one xl and I love it I'm a big Sony fan they make solid products and I've never had a issue and when I have Sony has been quick to respond. It's a good choice
Sent from my Xperia Arc using xda app-developers app

It's honestly a great phone and highly underrated. Maybe it is a very polarizing phone, in that some hate it while others absolutely love it.

Well it's down to what your needs are.
For custom roms development support go for either Htc one or S4.
For sound Htc one.
For screen brilliance HTC One or possibly S4. Zl screen looks washed out and very poor viewing angles.
Camera. ZL or S4.
Memory Zl or S4.
Smoothness UI Htc one.
Design HTC one.
Speed HTC One or S4.
Notification light ZL or S4.
Premium build HTC One.
For me it has to be HTC One.

riz157 said:
Well it's down to what your needs are.
For custom roms development support go for either Htc one or S4.
For sound Htc one.
For screen brilliance HTC One or possibly S4. Zl screen looks washed out and very poor viewing angles.
Camera. ZL or S4.
Memory Zl or S4.
Smoothness UI Htc one.
Design HTC one.
Speed HTC One or S4.
Notification light ZL or S4.
Premium build HTC One.
For me it has to be HTC One.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had someone offer me a HTC One + $50 the other day. I just don't see the appeal.

Which HTC One has...
4G (LTE)?
notification toggles?
support to microSD card, including SDXC (I still believe Sony will really fix it )?
Sony design?
Sony UI and Sony exclusive widgets?
full integration with Sony products (PS3, Bravia, Muteki, Music Unlimited...)?
movie player with BE2?
a full 5" screen almost to the edge of the bevel of the phone?
a 2013 main camera (against the 2009-compatible 4 Mpx from HTC one?)

Andre Verissimo said:
Which HTC One has...
4G (LTE)?
notification toggles?
support to microSD card, including SDXC (I still believe Sony will really fix it )?
Sony design?
Sony UI and Sony exclusive widgets?
full integration with Sony products (PS3, Bravia, Muteki, Music Unlimited...)?
movie player with BE2?
a full 5" screen almost to the edge of the bevel of the phone?
a 2013 main camera (against the 2009-compatible 4 Mpx from HTC one?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The One has LTE and notification toggles. To the OP. I switch phones A LOT so I've had all the big boys and I have to say the ZL is a really nice phone. The One is definitely a good competitor though. As for the S4 that has been my least favorite as it feels so cheap and i hate the home button. It all depends on personal preference but as for me I'll probably keep this for the next 2 months and then get the Moto X.

I think the answer depends on your timetable and perspective:
On 8/7, the LG G2 is going to be announed, which will be the first American-carrier snapdragon 800 phone. A month later, Samsung is expected to announce the Note 3 and a Galaxy S4 advanced. By the late fall, there should even be a Nexus 5.
Battery may not be a problem for us... but we don't have notes. We have small phones with giant screens and have (relatively) low standards like a phone lasting 12 hours on a charge rather than the Note's 2 day/no charge norm.
--
I like the ZL (bought 3 months ago). It has met my needs pretty well. I find that it's easier to make a mistake flashing mods and have bootloops needing reflashes... compared to my Samsung experience. I dislike its bluetooth stack... as I have to disable wifi for it to facilitate phone calls in my car. I have a slight feeling of it being the stepchild of the Sony family, as the developer of the only kernel stopped supporting the phone (he never owned it) and the custom roms are not as numerous as the Xperia Z. I had an AT&T LG Optimus G (same processor, smaller screen, wider body) directly before it and the SGS3 before that. I don't wish I had the HTC One.

I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?

ajhavery said:
I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Trust me, screen quality is much much better after the Update. Camera vise its really improved. If i am at a party with friends its like they want me to click pics from my ZL and day light pics are just great.
Compression Issue has been fixed in HDR. So its less noisy in low light condition with HDR.(Really Improved)
close up i would prefer my ZL.
But macros are not that great.
New update increased screen responsiveness. Frankly speaking Its getting better in every update.
But Beware, in Some phones there seems to some sort of Microphone bug which i am facing right now.(software May be as it works in everything else like recording)
Happy with Sony Xperia ZL Using from Past 5 Months.
Price has also been reduced. so its a best buy as of now.

IMO,if you need phone that trending (more dev support),go for HTC One or S4,since it also have Google Edition
but here few advantage of ZL to me:
-compact size 5' screen: -it slightly thicker than z,but more compact,it have thin bezel (fit into my pocket)
-omnibalance design: -slightly curve on the back,which support better grip,not need for cover since it make from plactic (still look premium)
-don't have to worry to put with key in pocket (still you should at least use screen protector to prevent direct scratch)
-camera : hv 13mp back n 2mp front,can recorded full hd video,have hdr,and hv dedicated shutter key with 2 press mechanism
image captured viewed beautiful on the phone with bravia engine 2 on
-notification light: at bottom,look really premium to me
-hv expandable storage (compare to HTC One)
-hv ir blaster: can control tv (compare to xperia z)
-speaker: average to me (htc one better i think) but it still able to make me up in the morning (i'm a heavy sleeper xD )
the earphone include is good enough (but can't compare it with high end earphone)
-sony software that does matter : walkman,album,movie,etc- support BE2,xloud,clearphase equalizer,which make music better
disadvantage:
-highly under rated (less dev support,however most dev in xperia z do port to zl,we still hv CM,PAC support )
-camera apps takes some times to launch (about 1-2 sec)
-screen does hv limited viewing angles but still visible in bright sunlight (with the help of UI itself that mainly white/grey colour)
Last word: xperia ZL does not hv the hype of other phone such as HTC One or S4 but it does hv enough power to run almost any apps in the play store,moreover with gr8 support from sony,i believe you could stay in stock firmware for quite sometimes,i used to unlock my bootloader and use custom rom for a week (to do this make sure you read all FAQ first if you not used to sony devices) but i'm back to stock and i'm happy with what sony offer to me
---------- Post added at 10:54 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------
ajhavery said:
I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i suggest you bring ur current phone and compare it with zl at retail shop,i u satisfied then grab it,if not choose others,review is useful but sometimes the company hv push updates to the phone to fix/improve the problem appear,while review stay the same,for example we recently received updates that improve touch sensitivity,ram management,camera low-light performance,etc,the latest firmware changelog can be view here

Ya I wasn't really looking for a specific yes or no. I was looking for things like: are you happy with it? Things you like about it and things you dislike. Did you find out anything after you bought it that you wish you knew before you bought it?
I really wish I could wait for the Note 3 but I need the phone basically this week. I am not a heavy user so I am pretty sure the smaller battery in this phone will be fine. My current Note 2 is amazing though. I understand that there will always be a better phone that is out or coming out soon. The Sony zl is free at Rogers right now so if I hate it that much I can sell it and get a nexus 4 or something. I don't really care about custom roms that much anymore. I used to care more because my first android phone was an LG G2x and they never updated it so I had to rely on custom roms for upgrades. As long as Sony will update it for another year or 2 ill be happy.

htc one vs sony zl
After many reviews online, I could not decide between One and ZL, so I bought both on eBay for my personal evaluation but will sell the other one later. HTC One is very good phone, high contrast screen, hi-powered speakers and responsive touch (very good if you want to watch YouTube). But, my choice is Sony ZL. There are much talks on the internet about washed screen on ZL. Do not believe it and I tell you why. For some reasons Sony designers chose to use the theme with dark grey background and white letters which is easier for eyes for long time but losing on sensation of hi-contrast. However, if you can choose a dark theme, it will change the game. Also, latest updates for ZL tend toward black background. Really, do you think that Sony, that makes TVs, laptops and professional monitors can not make phone screens? The speakers of One is better but that does not apply for the speaker when you make a phone call, which is sensational for ZL with xLoud and noise canceling enhancements. Overall the ZL looks and feels much more modern with very thin bezel while the One feels like an upgrade from old one. I thought BraviaEngine is there for commercial reasons but its really good when you watch movies and videos.

ZL is a awesome device. Its that developers don't do anything currently. There is a dev kamarush who said if he get the device he will do the kernels. But he didn't have money AFAIK. Some1 should come and help the community. Looks like we gotta donate a device to a very well know xda member: suggestion - tonyp, slim_rick, pulser_q2 etc etc
Sent from my C6503 using Tapatalk 4

Never really understood the issues people are having with the screen. All the reviews made it out to look like it was the most horrible screen on a phone to date. That is simply not the case. Having came from a galaxy note 1 I can honestly say the screen is on par with it. The viewing angle issue is a joke and should be experienced first hand and not from some reviewer with his head stuck up his ass. Thank god I got this phone despite what the reviews said. I'd have missed out on a great device.
Sent from my C6503

Agree that the screen (as stated in my post above) is not at all bad. Better than the XZ
Sent from my C6503 using xda premium

devilsshadow said:
Never really understood the issues people are having with the screen. All the reviews made it out to look like it was the most horrible screen on a phone to date. That is simply not the case. Having came from a galaxy note 1 I can honestly say the screen is on par with it. The viewing angle issue is a joke and should be experienced first hand and not from some reviewer with his head stuck up his ass. Thank god I got this phone despite what the reviews said. I'd have missed out on a great device.
Sent from my C6503
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree 100% ! I just love it.
The viewing angle is indeed deficient but I dont care. Its still bright and colorful. The FM radio and the loads of media formats it can play built in, are a great plus for me Really enjoyable device. Cant wait for an aokp 4.3 custom rom

unoo said:
Ya I wasn't really looking for a specific yes or no. I was looking for things like: are you happy with it? Things you like about it and things you dislike. Did you find out anything after you bought it that you wish you knew before you bought it?
I really wish I could wait for the Note 3 but I need the phone basically this week. I am not a heavy user so I am pretty sure the smaller battery in this phone will be fine. My current Note 2 is amazing though. I understand that there will always be a better phone that is out or coming out soon. The Sony zl is free at Rogers right now so if I hate it that much I can sell it and get a nexus 4 or something. I don't really care about custom roms that much anymore. I used to care more because my first android phone was an LG G2x and they never updated it so I had to rely on custom roms for upgrades. As long as Sony will update it for another year or 2 ill be happy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i would not sure if there will be update for 2 years,you said u used note 2,so r u using the s-pen heavily,i hv a friend that like to sketch cartoon with his note 2,and i think that phone really suitable for him,if you one of them,you should wait for note 3,if not,i suggest you give zl a shot,nexus 4 also a good phone but i choose zl instead of nexus 4 when i buy it because i want to hv expandable storage n i also use fm radio quite frequently,i use zl since early 3 april until today and so far i'm happy with it.what i like mainly the phone shape,different from other and the only thing i dislike is the camera takes some times to load as i mention earlier,hope sony will fix it later on

ihsan123 said:
i would not sure if there will be update for 2 years,you said u used note 2,so r u using the s-pen heavily,i hv a friend that like to sketch cartoon with his note 2,and i think that phone really suitable for him,if you one of them,you should wait for note 3,if not,i suggest you give zl a shot,nexus 4 also a good phone but i choose zl instead of nexus 4 when i buy it because i want to hv expandable storage n i also use fm radio quite frequently,i use zl since early 3 april until today and so far i'm happy with it.what i like mainly the phone shape,different from other and the only thing i dislike is the camera takes some times to load as i mention earlier,hope sony will fix it later on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never use the sPen. I don't care about the speakers either because I never use external speakers in a phone. I never heard anything bad about the screen but I make the assumption that sony makes TV's so that can make a decent cell phone screen haha. The more I think about it, I just want a properly functioning phone. If Sony updates it then that is great but as long as it is smooth and everything works then ill be happy. It is going to be my phone for the next 3 years so it needs to last!

Sticking Around or Moving On?

I am just curious to see how everyone feels about their ZL, or experience with Sony as a whole.
For me it's been a mixed bag. Overall, this is by LONG and FAR the most headache-free phone I've ever owned. Period. It's got all the features that I need and it works as it should when needed. I would not trade it for any other Android phone out there, especially a Samsung or HTC. With that all said, I can't help myself being sucked in by all the Nexus 5 rumors. Coming from a Galaxy Nexus, I should have naturally grabbed the Nexus 4, but lack of AT&T-compatible LTE kept me away. Now, with rumored specs coming out by the day, I must say that I am highly tempted by the prospect of owning a Nexus 5.
So what hasn't Sony done to possibly lose me as a customer? Here is the list:
Camera
I doubt I'm alone here to admit that I got had [major time] by Sony's PR when it came to the camera. Simply put, the camera is pure rubbish. I use my work provided iPhone 5c to take pics instead. Sad.
Hardware
Speaking strictly of the paint around the edge, could sony have made it less durable? The slightest bump flakes it off.
Update
I love the fact that there is an update every month to address an issue or two. The bad part, every update either reintroduces an old issue or introduces a new one. Come on.
Wireless Charging
Instead of focusing their efforts on waterproofing, I would love to see Sony bring us wireless charging. Chances of me using wireless charging, every hour of every day. Chances of me diving into a pool with my phone, next to none.
AOSP
If you're going to claim that you support the open community and such, don't release AOSP binaries that do not work. That defeats the whole purpose. I don't mind Sony's stock ROMs, but I like the fact that AOSP gets me the latest and greatest.
Speakers
iPhone had it right. HTC One got it right. Nexus 5 rumored to have gotten it right. Why did Sony put the speaker on the back of the phone is beyond me. It renders it useless when in it's natural position.
So, does this mean I don't adore my Xperia ZL? No, far from it. Does it mean I might consider an alternative device that gives me the above, maybe. Is the Nexus 5 looking better and better? Yeah!

The ZL was the phone I kept the longest in years...
Moving to a Z1. Just receive from Clove. Not waiting for the US ones.
ZL will stay as a back up.
Sendt fra XPERIA ZL 6506

Even if I had €1000000 I would probably still stick with ZL until Sony comes with a ZL1.
Z1f looks nice thought but I don't wanna go back to 4.3". I just want a ZL with new hardware and waterproof.
But... I don't have €1000000 so I will have my ZL for at least another 1.5 years if all goes well

I love my ZL but today I've saw the Note 3 and damn it's a nice phone.. Thinking about moving forward...
Sent from my ZL [email protected]

Sticking around with zl, however fully dependant on nexus 5 features and pricing.
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app

Luv my zl, but kinda bored with it. Thinking of z ultra, or maybe im dreaming..
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app

I'll be replacing my ZL with the Note 5 or 6, it wholly depends on when it dies on me.

coming from galaxy s4...lovin my ZL:victory:

Based on leaks from the official Google Play store, the 16GB is sure to be $349. Guessing the 32GB is $399. The phone looks sick good though. Like I said, love my ZL, but wireless charging and stock Android might win me over with that price.
coolrevi said:
Sticking around with zl, however fully dependant on nexus 5 features and pricing.
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Are the pictures really that bad on the ZL cause that would be of the only thing's that I don't like about the phone that and the fact they don't use guerrilla glass looking to leave my Xperia T for a ZL I'm not liking any other phone at the moment.
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app

spielnicht said:
Based on leaks from the official Google Play store, the 16GB is sure to be $349. Guessing the 32GB is $399. The phone looks sick good though. Like I said, love my ZL, but wireless charging and stock Android might win me over with that price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From Xperia t to zl I don see it as upgrade. If you are willing to buy I would rather suggest z1 which is a good buy in many term
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app

I'll keep mine till its dead, I was thinking about the Z1 but its way to big, if they do a new more powerful 5" with the same overall size as the ZL I would consider it in 2 years... interested to see if the camera gets any more improvements in the ZL, I like the quality, but not as picky as some..... video recording is good too.... Battery life could use a little more help though
Hoping for the Z1 camera App on the ZL in the 4.3 update, hopefully before Christmas...... Personally I think superior auto sucks, no image stabilizer, normal mode with my own settings works great.
4.4 may never come but that's ok, as long as 4.3 gets minor tweaking updates here and there.

So do you guys think the ZL is a good phone for a beginner?
The Z1 looks bulky indeed and LG G2 will be sold in my country (Brazil) only in 16GB option (no SD slot? WTF LG?)
I don´t have plans to play powerful games on it (just angry birds or something like when I'm waiting for something). I want a bigger screen to my GPS aps, listen music via Bluethoot (via car stereo) and watch video (High def videos on SD card, youtube, vimeo etc)

My dad has an Xperia T and based on some comparison shots, the images don't differ much. In other words, they both...suck. If I was to pick a single disappointment with the ZL, it would be the camera.
I know where you are coming from not liking any other phone out there. I am not an SG4 or HTC One fan. I'd consider the Z1, but Sony really dropped the ball by not including an AT&T/T-Mobile LTE friendly chip. So it's not even a consideration for me
Definitely wait until the Nexus 5 comes out. Looks very promising, both in specs and design.
Torres77an said:
Are the pictures really that bad on the ZL cause that would be of the only thing's that I don't like about the phone that and the fact they don't use guerrilla glass looking to leave my Xperia T for a ZL I'm not liking any other phone at the moment.
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse

thinking of upgrading from a xperia ion....zl is the maximum that i can afford..nd i kinda love the white one
Is there anything else apart from the camera that i should look into before buying?
no nexus in my country else would've waited for nexus 5 :/

I've take the same picture with an iPhone 5 and with my Xperia T and then again the same picture with a Galaxy s3 we compared them at work and my other to co-workers had to agree that the Xperia T photo looked the best though mind you Bravia was enabled yes there's room for improvement on Sony's camera phones but even with the Bravia engine turned off the photos are not that far behind the rest of the mobile devices out there but what it does lack is consistency that the others have now with the z1 having better hardware and software the problem with the camera is almost gone it just seems to over expose photos at times so does the LG G2 though it's clearly not as good in the comparison that I've seen between it and the Z1
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app

Torres77an said:
I've take the same picture with an iPhone 5 and with my Xperia T and then again the same picture with a Galaxy s3 we compared them at work and my other to co-workers had to agree that the Xperia T photo looked the best though mind you Bravia was enabled yes there's room for improvement on Sony's camera phones but even with the Bravia engine turned off the photos are not that far behind the rest of the mobile devices out there but what it does lack is consistency that the others have now with the z1 having better hardware and software the problem with the camera is almost gone it just seems to over expose photos at times so does the LG G2 though it's clearly not as good in the comparison that I've seen between it and the Z1
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app
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That's not how you compare photos, you put them on the same computer and then compare them on the PC. That way the different displays and image rendering software of each phone won't interfere.

my photos look basically the same after they have been uploaded to my pc
Dead Metal said:
That's not how you compare photos, you put them on the same computer and then compare them on the PC. That way the different displays and image rendering software of each phone won't interfere.
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Click to collapse
I've also seen comparisons with the iPhone 5 and the Xperia T on the internet and the iPhone's aren't that much better better but not by much but definitely more consistent I think the Xperia software may need some work with it's poor autofocus half of the photos do turn out like crap.

Torres77an said:
I've also seen comparisons with the iPhone 5 and the Xperia T on the internet and the iPhone's aren't that much better better but not by much but definitely more consistent I think the Xperia software may need some work with it's poor autofocus half of the photos do turn out like crap.
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Click to collapse
Yup, they do need to give that a work over, but someone pointed be in the direction of Camera FV-5, which is brilliant. The best camera app I've ever used, only downside is it does not have an auto-mode, and sometimes it does not save the pictures, especially when you use the hardware camera button.
Hope that gets fixed soon.

That's exactly what I did Took a pic of the same object, dropped them in Lightroom side-by-side, the ZL was slightly better (very slightly), but neither anything to brag out.
Dead Metal said:
That's not how you compare photos, you put them on the same computer and then compare them on the PC. That way the different displays and image rendering software of each phone won't interfere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Z1 compact or Nexus 5

Hi All !
I'm planning to buy a new phone. And I'm in a dilemma about which one to choose. I read the problems with the z1c and i'm alsi aware about the new firmware update rolling out to tackle those issues. Anyways I want your suggestions about getting this device for its awesome battery and water resistance or to go for nexus 5. As the z1c has real bad speakers.
Sent from my GT-I8262 using Tapatalk

Well, problems with the touch screens is the main problem on the Sony phones,and Sony know about it,but unfortunately it can't be fixed if it's hardware problem with Sony official firmwares.your final choice depends on you,but if I were you I would choose Nexus 5 because it will get quickest updates,will be updated for around 18 months,bigger dev support (if you mind about it),better audio quality (Nexus 5 with new hardware has better audio quality than Nexus 5 with the old one,so my Nexus 5 has very good audio quality)
As you mentioned "as for awesome battery life" It's would be biggest Nexus 5 con bad battery life. Of course there're some Nexus 5 users who're managed to get excellent battery life,but for me on normal use it stands for around 6-7 hours.

^ Wait... is there something wrong with the touch screens on the Z1c? I own one, and have no issues. It is extremely responsive and I think visually it's on par or better with others I've seen.
Nexus 5 is probably a fine device, and will get strong dev support since it runs un touched Android KK. If that's important, I suppose it's something to consider. Probably the biggest factor will just be device / screen size. I personally am over the 5" size. It was fine, and I could almost use it one handed, but not quite. Performance wise, I'll take the Sony any day... the battery with stamina mode has turned out to be a panacea of sorts... it's just insanely good. I can handle the screen shrink for that alone.
Also, I buy Sony (and had an Oppo Find 5 previous to this) because I wanted to support those hardware vendors that most support the dev community like we have here. Sony is actually pretty good about releasing source, and their updates are better than some others I've had in the past. The Nexus will most certainly be good in this respect, but I like to spend where it supports the cause...
my .02

afaquekhaja said:
As the z1c has real bad speakers.
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Click to collapse
Every mobile Phone has "bad speakers", so if that's a deciding factor when deciding you're pretty much screwed whatever you buy.

XperienceD said:
Every mobile Phone has "bad speakers", so if that's a deciding factor when deciding you're pretty much screwed whatever you buy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently have a Samsung galaxy core and I compared my speakers with the z1cs and concluded that they are not good at all.
Sent from my GT-I8262 using Tapatalk

Simonna said:
Well, problems with the touch screens is the main problem on the Sony phones,and Sony know about it,but unfortunately it can't be fixed if it's hardware problem with Sony official firmwares.your final choice depends on you,but if I were you I would choose Nexus 5 because it will get quickest updates,will be updated for around 18 months,bigger dev support (if you mind about it),better audio quality (Nexus 5 with new hardware has better audio quality than Nexus 5 with the old one,so my Nexus 5 has very good audio quality)
As you mentioned "as for awesome battery life" It's would be biggest Nexus 5 con bad battery life. Of course there're some Nexus 5 users who're managed to get excellent battery life,but for me on normal use it stands for around 6-7 hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like the z1c for its waterproofing, its battery and the notification led. The new 4.4.2 update is also great.
What I don't like though is the speakers and the noise in pictures taken with it. Also there isn't much accessories available for it my country.
Sent from my GT-I8262 using Tapatalk

Simonna said:
Well, problems with the touch screens is the main problem on the Sony phones,and Sony know about it,but unfortunately it can't be fixed if it's hardware problem with Sony official firmwares.your final choice depends on you,but if I were you I would choose Nexus 5 because it will get quickest updates,will be updated for around 18 months,bigger dev support (if you mind about it),better audio quality (Nexus 5 with new hardware has better audio quality than Nexus 5 with the old one,so my Nexus 5 has very good audio quality)
As you mentioned "as for awesome battery life" It's would be biggest Nexus 5 con bad battery life. Of course there're some Nexus 5 users who're managed to get excellent battery life,but for me on normal use it stands for around 6-7 hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm aware of the issues of the z1 compact like the mic issue, camera quality and so on.
Now talking about nexus 5, it has a beautiful screen, stock android, better looks, faster updates and much more accessories availability.
What I don't like though is the battery, limited storage, not waterproof and the notification led is too small
Sent from my GT-I8262 using Tapatalk

afaquekhaja said:
Now talking about nexus 5, it has a beautiful screen, stock android, better looks, faster updates and much more accessories availability.
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Click to collapse
One could argue that Sony offers ALL of those with the possible exception of updates and accessories... but I think there are a nice selection of accessories for a phone that's still new. I definitely love the feel and look of the Xperia line.

The Z5 Premium or the Google Nexus 6P

I'm definitely leaning towards getting the Z5 Premium. But any reason to get the Nexus 6P instead? I need lots of storage, for my lossless music collection. And I'm familiar with Sony's Xperia overlay on Android since I've owned all the Z tablets (currently on the Z4 tablet). Both phones use the same SoC. The Z5 seems clearly better. Am I missing anything?

DaddyWhale said:
I'm definitely leaning towards getting the Z5 Premium. But any reason to get the Nexus 6P instead? I need lots of storage, for my lossless music collection. And I'm familiar with Sony's Xperia overlay on Android since I've owned all the Z tablets (currently on the Z4 tablet). Both phones use the same SoC. The Z5 seems clearly better. Am I missing anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also considering the Z5 (non premium). I guess the downside of the Sony is the non-stock Android and lack of Nexus-style updates. I've been on Nexus since the N4, so I think I'm very reluctant to switch, but I prefer the form factor and the fingerprint reader of the Z5. Hard decision to make!

what about the LG V10
lmhrpr said:
I'm also considering the Z5 (non premium). I guess the downside of the Sony is the non-stock Android and lack of Nexus-style updates. I've been on Nexus since the N4, so I think I'm very reluctant to switch, but I prefer the form factor and the fingerprint reader of the Z5. Hard decision to make!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Sony skin on stock Android is not bad. Not nearly as intrusive as TouchWiz on Samsung phones. Having learned more about each phone, I think I would definitely pick the Z5 over the 6P.
But today, LG announced there new phablet, the V10. It looks pretty terrific on paper! What I like about it is
1. It will get a US release (not sure about the Z5)
2. It has a microSD slot (same as the Z5, better than the 6P)
3. It has a 32 bit DAC on board
4. A small always-on second screen that can be used as a shortcuts bar
5. Built in 64GB of storage
6. 4GB of RAM

Another potential downside: the Z5 won't have Marshmallow (at least not right off the bat) and therefore might not have fingerprint integration with Google Play/Pay, etc. Not sure what Sony's record for software updates is either...

lmhrpr said:
Another potential downside: the Z5 won't have Marshmallow (at least not right off the bat) and therefore might not have fingerprint integration with Google Play/Pay, etc. Not sure what Sony's record for software updates is either...
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Click to collapse
In my opinion and based on my experience with their tablets, Sony is pretty good about software updates. They certainly don't come out as fast as on Nexus devices. But it did not take them so long to update to 5.1.1.

i say:
if you cant afford a Xperia then Nexus is a perfect alternative due its price , specs and outstanding quality as well as performance..
however the 4K screen on a Xperia is epic, its sharpness is outstanding and every detail can be seen and for the camera its about the best I've ever seen from Sony.
BUT the nexus 5x and 6p are close behind so its up to what you prefer or can afford in my opinion.

im on the same boat. i have the Z3 and when they announced the Z5 I couldn't see myself not buying it. However, each device has its own ups and downs. On one hand you have the expensive Z5 with its amazing camera, battery life, and screen. Not to mention a MicroSD card slot which google failed to implement on the 6P. But on the other hand you have the 6P which has a great camera, pure android, and great development for it. However the lack of a microSD card slot is kinda of a deal breaker. If only Sony came out with a Z5 Premium (Google Play Edition) phone...

DaddyWhale said:
In my opinion and based on my experience with their tablets, Sony is pretty good about software updates. They certainly don't come out as fast as on Nexus devices. But it did not take them so long to update to 5.1.1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the update for 5.0 took 6 months for my Z3 with bell canada. I'm on android since 2010 and this will be my first nexus device.

warplane95 said:
the update for 5.0 took 6 months for my Z3 with bell canada. I'm on android since 2010 and this will be my first nexus device.
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Was your Z3 locked to a particular wireless company? An unlocked device (tablet in my case) may take less time.

the unlocked Z5 took 5 month.

warplane95 said:
the unlocked Z5 took 5 month.
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Click to collapse
Yes as Marshmallow has totally come out for the Z5.

only in beta test.

DaddyWhale said:
I'm definitely leaning towards getting the Z5 Premium. But any reason to get the Nexus 6P instead? I need lots of storage, for my lossless music collection. And I'm familiar with Sony's Xperia overlay on Android since I've owned all the Z tablets (currently on the Z4 tablet). Both phones use the same SoC. The Z5 seems clearly better. Am I missing anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Every one has their own kind of choice.I am a nexus and Samsung user.One thing i like about nexus devices is that the are running on pure android and are the first device to get the official updates.There are loads of ROM and Kernels available for Nexus devices.These are few reasons i always choose Nexus over a Sony.
But looking at your needs (Storage), i think you should buy Z5 premium.Now a days all phones are packed with high end specs, so performance will be top class.

DaddyWhale said:
I'm definitely leaning towards getting the Z5 Premium. But any reason to get the Nexus 6P instead? I need lots of storage, for my lossless music collection. And I'm familiar with Sony's Xperia overlay on Android since I've owned all the Z tablets (currently on the Z4 tablet). Both phones use the same SoC. The Z5 seems clearly better. Am I missing anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same doubt.
One important difference (for me) is the dual SIM feature.
Z5 have dual SIM (model E6833 LTE 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20 & model E6883 LTE 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, TD-LTE 38, 39, 40, 41), Unfortunately Nexus 6P not.
Cheers

I wonder how the battery life compares
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk

dieselhazza said:
I wonder how the battery life compares
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well we already know that sony beats nexus easily in battery life no comparisation needed !

migidid said:
well we already know that sony beats nexus easily in battery life no comparisation needed !
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Click to collapse
Not fully true
Example:
Xperia Z2 is simular to Nexus 5 but xperia has a bigger battery yet nexus 5 gets about 8-9hrs SOT where as Z2 gets between 6-7hrs
Nexus phones have very good battery with later firmwares
(i still personally prefer xperia)
dieselhazza said:
I wonder how the battery life compares
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
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For me, Nexus is more for "experiment" for its upgrade from Google all the time and Xperia is more for "Daily Use".

Envious_Data said:
Xperia Z2 is simular to Nexus 5 but xperia has a bigger battery yet nexus 5 gets about 8-9hrs SOT where as Z2 gets between 6-7hrs
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Click to collapse
You are wrong ! not saying N5 has a bad battery but Z2 has roughly 40% more capacity and about 1 and a half day battery life (without any power saving options) compared to N5 wich lasts almost a day...
Then if we put sonys power saving options on you get 1 more day of it... so thats about almost 2.5 days and that is really good... Even my Z1 lasts 2 days easily when strict power management is on...
So checked some info on webs and N5 gets about 4-6 hours and Z2 gets about 8-9 without power management and roughly 12h with battery management on...
here is some sources:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2741281
https://www.reddit.com/r/Nexus5/comments/2bxms8/whats_the_average_screen_on_time_you_guys_get/
http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile...e-worse-android-5-0-lollipop-according-tests/
https://www.androidpit.com/sony-xperia-z2-vs-google-nexus-5
http://phonerocket.com/smartphones/Sony-Xperia-Z2-vs-Google-Nexus-5

migidid said:
You are wrong ! not saying N5 has a bad battery but Z2 has roughly 40% more capacity and about 1 and a half day
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Click to collapse
Im going off of what a freind has got as he bought a New Nexus 5 recently and was posting screenshots till he got a One plus one
typically his battery life was that or more of my Z2 however he was at first using 5.1 and later 6.0 marshmallow Dev Preview