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Hi -- I have a Droid Charge and while I like it, I admit I'm jealous of the GNex, or at least of what the Gnex is supposed to be. I don't have an upgrade coming until 2013, but may be able to add a "ghost line" to my account and pick up a Gnex for $300 at a Verizon store, then sell my Charge. But I've heard there are major battery/speakerphone/radio-connectivity/other issues with the Gnex. So my question is... is everyone here in love with theirs? Any regrets? Anyone who was jonesing to get one but is now disappointed? Any opinions out there that can help me make my choice, I'd be so grateful. Thanks!!!
I'm going to try to post this as politely as I can without sounding like an @$$hole because I am not trying to be rude, but you could likely gather a vast pool of information by reviewing the several hundred threads within the Galaxy Nexus category to see what the common complaint is.
To not be completely useless in posting here, I personally enjoy the Galaxy Nexus a lot. You'll find people complain about all the same things as every other phone, including but not limited to:
Battery life
Screen durability
Screen brightness
Software incompatibilities
Camera function, performance, and/or capability
etc....
I've looked at a lot of threads, but I wanted to try and get an overview that wasn't necessarily based on squeaky wheels. A thousand people may love it and have no problem, but the ten who do post and negative connotations are born. I did do a search for an opinion thread like mine, and didn't find anything. For anyone who feels like the above poster, I apologize. For any others who don't mind giving me their opinion, I'd appreciate it.
Was in a similar position like you... I could get mine for a few bucks less, but I wasn't sure at all. But then I thought I'll give it a go and if I don't like it I'd just sell it.
After two weeks all I can say is I just love that phone and it was the the best buy since a long time.
Imo the screen is absolutely amazing, the image is razor-sharp due to the hd resolution and the colors are pretty "natural". What I'm trying to say with "natural" is, that when I compare the screen with the Galaxy S2 from a mate, the Nexus is more vibrant. The S2 is brighter, but looks kinda artificial. You could say the Nex looks more like a printed page and the S2 like a computer screen. The black on the Nex screen is truly black!
Battery life is ok, pretty good in idle is you ask me. But when you actually use your phone, the big screen takes its toll... but I have no problem to get over an entire day, even with heavy use. A lot of messaging, facebook, listening to music for an hour, at least an hour of playing games, playing around with my screen setup and voice calls (30 mins) today and I came home with 25% left.
And yes, there are some occasional software issues. But nothing big that would make the device unusable. Small glitches, you could say. After all it's a developer phone.
The phone itself looks very nice with the all-glass front and the overall feel is high-quality.
To sum it up: yes, there are some small issues, like with every other device. And yes, I would say, there is a big chance that you might like the GNex or even love it, like me
If you got any questions, feel free to ask!
I got an upgrade coming up on the 23rd so thanks to the OP for asking this question.
Sent from my Samsung Stratosphere using the XDA App
Flx -grafix, thanks for such a thourough response! I see you're outside of the US, are you on a 4G network? Just want to gauge your battery life. Also, a lot of people have complained about the speaker, is it loud enough in your opinion?
billku said:
I've looked at a lot of threads, but I wanted to try and get an overview that wasn't necessarily based on squeaky wheels. A thousand people may love it and have no problem, but the ten who do post and negative connotations are born. I did do a search for an opinion thread like mine, and didn't find anything. For anyone who feels like the above poster, I apologize. For any others who don't mind giving me their opinion, I'd appreciate it.
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i absolutely LOVE mine, but it is the GSM version not the verizon one. it seems the verizon version with LTE has bad battery problems where it loses 20% overnight with no usage. the GSM version loses 4% over an 8 hour period. so i dont know how i would feel about that.
Yeah, Roger, that does concern me a lot. As the guy who chided me posted, battery issues on 4g phones are fairly common, but I'm hearing that the LTE version of the GNex's issues are pretty egregious.
billku said:
Flx -grafix, thanks for such a thourough response! I see you're outside of the US, are you on a 4G network? Just want to gauge your battery life. Also, a lot of people have complained about the speaker, is it loud enough in your opinion?
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No, I'm not on a 4G network, so I can't tell you about the battery life. I'm on a HSDPA net here. Compared to my HTC Desire S (Saga), the only noticable difference is that the GN drains more battery while the screen is on. But that is just plain logic, since the screen is much bigger and the resolution is higher. I'm also still on 4.0.1, the battery life on 4.0.2 and 4.0.3 is supposed to be even better.
The speaker volume is pretty low, that is right. But this is also something that's fixed with the update afaik and there is also an app in the market which lets you boost the speaker volume. This is definitely no reason for not buying the phone!
Any more questions? Just ask! And if helped you, pressing the thanks button is highly appreciated
Over all .... I am very happy with the Nexus and have no buyers remorse
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App
I am (slowly) moving an entire family plan to Verizon... largely because of the GN, but mostly because they have coverage everywhere I need it.
I live in the DFW area, so 4G has been steady and available all over my daily living/working spaces (except work, where the building kills the LTE but I can use it outside.)
Anyway, I know there are a lot of people with issues but I have to say, I have loved this phone every second so far. My battery life has been fine, could be better, because I don't use it every second of the day. I use a BlackBerry for work, so that helps, I guess.
I say go for it... if you don't like it you have like 14 days to return it and only be out the prorated service costs, I believe. (That's how Sprint was, anyway. Surely VZW does the same.)
For what its worth, I tweaked my phone's speaker with dspmanager. It is plenty loud and has more detail and bass with less of a high treble tin sound. Better speaker IMO vs the rezound and charge.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
for those who's got Gnex already: dont regret!! it was a great choice.
for those who hasnot got: Gnex is no much better than gs2, except for ICS (sg2 is getting ICS anyway).
however, giving the fact i have both devices. i have to say, Gnex is compatible with way more games (especially gameloft and ea games) on the google market, whie gs2 is not.
Thanks everyone for all these replies! I have worried about the reception/radio issues, though I'm in a strong 4G area, Los Angeles, so I'm hoping if I get the GNex I'll have similar results as Is_907.
Again, really appreciate all this, it's making me lean towards taking the plunge...
Don't let people with razr/rezound tell you otherwise, this is the best phone by far all around - however it has some deal breakers that are subjective (like the storage).
Now the real question is, is it worth the upgrade from a Droid Charge? I would honestly say no.
My dad and sister both have them, while nexus is definitely a step up - droid charge is pretty much the best of the last gen phones, I would wait for the next big thing - like galaxy s3, which will also likely have samoled+ hd and sd card.
Just put cm7 and load ics theme for now. (I did that on my moto triumph and fell in love with it again)
billku said:
Thanks everyone for all these replies! I have worried about the reception/radio issues, though I'm in a strong 4G area, Los Angeles, so I'm hoping if I get the GNex I'll have similar results as Is_907.
Again, really appreciate all this, it's making me lean towards taking the plunge...
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Verizon 4G coverage is pretty good and I have a signal everywhere I go (and speeds are INCREDIBLE). I haven't seen any reception issues.
Interesting, wonshikee. You've got me thinking...
I hear keeping 4G off when not needed helps a lot with the battery. I only live in a 3G area so I'm not 100% certain. Just use 4G when needed, 3g if OK for normal operation.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
It also charges freakishly fast. It charges so fast that I thought it was fake at first.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
I had a DC. I'm not looking back. That should speak for itself.
Sent from my GummyNex Beast
Id the gnex still with its money? I'm going to Verizon. And I want to get the best/most bang for my buck.
Sent from my Kindle Fire using xda premium
It is still worth it to me but YMMV. I absolutely love this phone and I have exactly zero issues with it. No screen banding. No 3G/4G issues. No wifi issues. No scratches, cracks or dents.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA App
Why isn't it? What do you see in the Gnex that you can compare with the other phones that interest you? Do you need a bloatware free rom? These are questions you should be asking yourself.
My opinion is that it's worth the money for me (coming from t-mobile), because i get 4G speeds, increase amount of support for development of new roms, and of course ICS.
I dont know i was thinking maybe new/better phones came out. im comming from a pretty crappy phone (samsung transform) so im looking forward to being able to use my android phone for more then just texting and calling.
IMO, if you're interested in installing different kernels and ROMs or even just being first to get the latest versions of Android straight from Google, this is definitely the phone to have, and no better phone will come out until the next Nexus phone.
If you're interested in the highest possible hardware spec, you surely know that even though this is a very high-end phone right now, in six months there will be better ones. But that's always the case, so you shouldn't let that stop you.
If you like slick UI additions like TouchWiz, I'd advise the Galaxy SII. My partner has one and is always showing off all the fancy tricks that it can do, but I'm more interested in being among the first to try out the latest version of Android and having a phone that is free of bloatware. I might start tinkering in a few months, but for right now I'm enjoying "pure Android".
definitely worth it
IF you can get one that doesnt have banding issues........then it is SOO worth it. love the phone. you may have to go through a few to get a good one tho sadly
GNex is definitely worth that money! I just got it, bought it from big electronics shop in Poland (GSM version), paid loads for it and I don't regret it. Jaw-dropping screen, awesome performance, absolutely no issues and great audio quality. Only the camera could be a little better; it's not the best possible, but it's fine. You definitely should get the Galaxy Nexus!
I personally think the RAZR MAXX looks like the phone to beat from a hardware standpoint. I am big on small extended batteries and this phone cannot be touched in that respect.
If you're into fiddling and tweaking, stick with the GNEX.
Dragonsla said:
IF you can get one that doesnt have banding issues........then it is SOO worth it. love the phone. you may have to go through a few to get a good one tho sadly
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Oh and to let you know, I DID end up getting a nexus with a decent screen.....so yeah. very much worth it ;]
I'm just curious- I just sold my E4GT for an iPhone 4S- as to what your opinions are! This will be my first iPhone, I've only had android for smartphones (well Win6.1 for a few months). (although the E4GT is still my favorite phone ever).
I know this sounds like a "I'm leaving" thread, but it isn't meant to be. Just wondering what people may like about the iPhone vs. this phone, and what they hate! For me, I'm looking forward to the battery life, and the retina display, but will miss google nav, gtalk, gmail app, the notifications, etc.
If there's anyone who has both these phones, and could give some insight, please chime in.
There's a good chance I'll be back, since I change out phones every 6 months (and I got an iPhone because I've never used that OS before, so I'm curious), but I may try Win7 mobile before coming back to android as well.
On a side note, if everyone is really just hating on this thread, and I was an idiot for creating it and causing drama, I will just close it. Sorry all, was just really curious, not trying to create anything!!
My girlfriend has the iPhone, and she loves it. You'll instantly find that without jailbreak, you really can't customize the phone. For 80% of folks that's fine, very similar to the WinPhone7 experience, but you wouldn't be on XDA if you want to keep your phone stock
I will say that the application quality is better on iOS devices, seems like developers put a little more polish into them.
I'm currently in the same dilemma... Mainly because of apps. A lot of apps on iOS either take too long, or don't get released on Android at all. -Yes we have probably almost the same amount of apps on Android as on iOS, but not quality apps. Besides, for me as a startup app developer, iOS is better for business I was waiting for the SGS III, but was disappointed. Would have gotten the One X, if sprint imo wouldn't have uglyfied it. So now I'm waiting for the new iPhone, and hopefully it won't be an iPhone 4SS. Then I might consider switching too.
PS. see, not hate we can communicate in a mature manner
I think whosdaman (Korey) just came back to the E4GT from an iPhone and he has also had the OG Epic I am sure you can get some feedback from him all around.
I havent had the chance to use one but I put it to most people like this. If you've bought into one system why switch? If you really haven't and you like the other then don't let any stop you from having it your way.
DevalB said:
My girlfriend has the iPhone, and she loves it. You'll instantly find that without jailbreak, you really can't customize the phone. For 80% of folks that's fine, very similar to the WinPhone7 experience, but you wouldn't be on XDA if you want to keep your phone stock
I will say that the application quality is better on iOS devices, seems like developers put a little more polish into them.
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I will definitely be jailbreaking the iPhone, I need my wifi-tether haha! Yea I'm excited for the applications, there are so much more on there. What's nice is that EA and Gameloft have a lot of sales, so all the games can be had for $0.99, if you wait for the right time (although still can't beat the market's $0.10 appsale).
jazzneel said:
I'm just curious- I just sold my E4GT for an iPhone 4S- as to what your opinions are! This will be my first iPhone, I've only had android for smartphones (well Win6.1 for a few months). (although the E4GT is still my favorite phone ever).
I know this sounds like a "I'm leaving" thread, but it isn't meant to be. Just wondering what people may like about the iPhone vs. this phone, and what they hate! For me, I'm looking forward to the battery life, and the retina display, but will miss google nav, gtalk, gmail app, the notifications, etc.
If there's anyone who has both these phones, and could give some insight, please chime in.
There's a good chance I'll be back, since I change out phones every 6 months (and I got an iPhone because I've never used that OS before, so I'm curious), but I may try Win7 mobile before coming back to android as well.
On a side note, if everyone is really just hating on this thread, and I was an idiot for creating it and causing drama, I will just close it. Sorry all, was just really curious, not trying to create anything!!
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Their battery is about the same for me but the iPhone 4s has battery on sleep mode/ standby but the E4GT has better battery while in use but by the end of the day their battery drainage is about the same. Camera seems better on the E4GT maybe it's just the screen. Seriously though it's whatever floats your boat. You like massive apps, buying accessories and just want a simple phone then stick to the iPhone, for everything else E4GT is better in my opinion I hate the size of the iPhone screen and it gets boring after 2 days.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
RainMotorsports said:
I think whosdaman (Korey) just came back to the E4GT from an iPhone and he has also had the OG Epic I am sure you can get some feedback from him all around.
I havent had the chance to use one but I put it to most people like this. If you've bought into one system why switch? If you really haven't and you like the other then don't let any stop you from having it your way.
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Honestly, I love the learning process of new phones, which is why I switch so often. I still have not had a Motorola or Apple smartphone ever, so those were next on my list. I went from the Samsung Instinct to HTC Diamond to HTC Hero, to Epic 4G to E4GT, and now iPhone 4S.
I have put a lot of effort into android, but I can always come back. Plus I will admit, that I will probably spend less time on forums in general (still will be on XDA a bit) since you can't customize the iPhone as much. That was another key aspect of getting a phone like the iPhone....I will have more time to study for the GMATs instead of being drawn to all these amazing devs and their work!
I don't have an iPhone but I do have an ipad 3 and it was excruciatingly painful not having jb
And I did start slight theming for it (I just spent around 3 hours)
But **** is so complicated in theming and the file system is stupidly complicated
Who said that iPhones are simple
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
gtuansdiamm said:
I don't have an iPhone but I do have an ipad 3 and it was excruciatingly painful not having jb
And I did start slight theming for it (I just spent around 3 hours)
But **** is so complicated in theming and the file system is stupidly complicated
Who said that iPhones are simple
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
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I freaking hated jailbreaking the iPhone(on the 3gs days), everything stops working like Cydia when a new update/OS is available then you have to jailbreak all over again and spend so much time bringing everything back, it's one of the few updates I dont ever look forward to because of the hassle. My girl has my iPhone 4s now it had nothing to offer me that my E4GT couldn't do
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
My wife and I both used to have original Evo's and about 6 months ago I went to the e4gt, and she went with the iPhone 4s. We frequently use each others phones and we both have likes and dislikes. Here are some of our big complaints:
Most of these are the obvious *****es that everyone has...
No 4G
Small screen
No back button
No external storage
Your clueless friends act like you finally decided to get a smartphone.
Positives are:
Camera is much better
High quality look and feel. (The brushed aluminum is a nice touch)
Siri is really cool. (I have tried the leaked S voice app, and I don't think we will see anything that comes close to Siri in the next couple of years)
The iOS is very polished. The cliche is true, "it just works"...
Manufacturers of other products (home or mobile audio mainly) gear everything towards iPhone.
I personally wouldn't go to an iPhone, but I like tinkering and customizing. My wife just wants stability, excellent camera, and good battery life. I definitely see the attraction of both devices. They both have their positives and negatives, it just comes down to preference. Have fun!
jazzneel said:
I will definitely be jailbreaking the iPhone, I need my wifi-tether haha! Yea I'm excited for the applications, there are so much more on there. What's nice is that EA and Gameloft have a lot of sales, so all the games can be had for $0.99, if you wait for the right time (although still can't beat the market's $0.10 appsale).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep when you try and jailbreak, that's when you realize it's not as straightforward as you'd like.
I am waiting for the new iPhone as well, as long as it has a larger screen, LTE, and maybe starting at 32gb (I wish!)
Yeah I have both and iPhone is for people who don't do a lot with their phone. Your paying sprint 10 dollars extra and you get slow 3g. And the screen is so small.
But it is a great phone. Maybe if it were bigger and had lte maybe but sprint 3g is horrible. If your on wifi its OK.
Pure ICS only
You will curse the screen for being so tiny on a daily basis.
Sent from my slim n trim Galaxy S II.
DevalB said:
Yep when you try and jailbreak, that's when you realize it's not as straightforward as you'd like.
I am waiting for the new iPhone as well, as long as it has a larger screen, LTE, and maybe starting at 32gb (I wish!)
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It was really straight forward with the ipad 3
It was actually just one click not a zillion clicks like the one click roots from here (no offense to anyone intended)
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
My sister has an iPhone and I just jailbroke it for her yesterday. It's amazing how you can customize it with Jailbreaking... I made her phone look like the SII haha. But I still prefer Android because you can customize more even compared to jailbroken iPhones, and jailbreaking isn't completely stable. I'd say that custom ROMs on our phone are in general (not like nightly builds, but regular ROMs) are more stable than jailbroken features on iPhones. I personally don't like the shape of the iPhone or the small screen. Siri also isn't anything special IMO because no one ever ends up using it... just something to brag with. Like I seriously haven't met anyone who used Siri on a daily basis for functionality. To be honest, it's faster looking at a weather widget or opening a weather app than telling Siri to get the weather anyways.
gtuansdiamm said:
It was really straight forward with the ipad 3
It was actually just one click not a zillion clicks like the one click roots from here (no offense to anyone intended)
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda premium
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How is it a zillion clicks lol. The only one click root for the E4GT I have seen once the app is running, its one click. The auto rooter was never advertised as a one click if thats what you mean. Maybe something else back in the EG30 days but i cam just before EK02 went ota.
I thought about getting an iphone but several things turned me off about it. First the hardware feels dated and screen seems small compared to this phone. Second in order to do anything with the files on the phone you have to use a software interface of some sort. For example you cant just plug into any pc, xfer files then unplug, you need itunes. Finally it just feels like a dumbed down content delivery device to me. Android feels and functions like a computer and I like that. I do understand how the simplicity of iphone would appeal to many but its just not for me. I also like being a bit different and popping down my S2 on the table with all my friends iphones at the restaurant or bar.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
My job provided me with an iPhone and I use the E4GT personally.
The iPhone "just works"...but thats it...Its a no thrills phone that just works.
I personally love my E4GT but it takes much tweaking to make it yours.
I will admit. SIRI is awesome but i feel like its just a gimmick for the "Lazy" person who doesn't want to take the few extra steps to do what SIRI does for you.
It is a learning curve but in the end, it really is up to the person and their preference.
I had both, sold the iPhone. I will never own another apple device. The best thing about android is that its open source. That is how things should be. The iPhone was too small, not customizable, and the majority of the apps are paid apps. Also, downloads took FOREVER! I also tried a Galaxy Nexus and sold it this morning. Im sticking with the E4GT until something freaking spectacular pops up. My main things about the E4GT that keep me here: Processor is fast, screen looks fantastic, camera is badass, and the roms are plentiful.
I owned iPhones for years, the biggest deal breaker by far is the tiny screen size. Buy even if it was a larger screen I would never ever be able to go back.
I do see how it is better for average users who just want something that is easy and works out of the box
sent from cyanogenmod9 on e4gt
I need someone who is not an unboxer or professional to review this phone. I am planning to sell my GS3 to get this phone because my upgrade isn't mature till 8 more freaken month. I have went to sprint store to playing around with the phone but people said to judge by the display model due to magnet issue.
Honestly?
I'm a phone guy.
I tried it all. From htc evo, to evo 3d, to galaxy epic og, to epic touch s2 to galaxy.s3, etc etc.
And I also own my own cell phone business.
With that being said, personally, to me, all androids are alike.
I know there can be many arguments with my statement, with core speeds, etc etc etc, but we are all on xda site anyway, so we are probably all rooters and flashaholics.
The ONLY difference, again in my opinion, are screen size on devices. That differentiates the devices and performance of the the phone.
Now for the review? I liked the s2 epic touch, I owned it since launch day, then I went to the s3 about 3 weeks after launch.
The s2 to s3 conversion, to me, was not a big upgrade. Sure it was a bugger screen estate, but not much for me to jump ship. I wanted a bigger screen.
With that, I resold the s3 and went back to the s2. And now I'm on my note 2.
I'm not a professional reviewer or any of that sort. I just know cell phones. It's what I do for a living. And personally, with every android device, I titanium backup my preference and settings back to my desired look between phones, so I'm probably not the best reviewer out there.
If you want a big screen, this phone is for you. But be aware that it's VERY CHALLENGING to text with one hand, or give a quick reply when driving on the road. That's my only gripe.
Gps locks are fast, reception is great. But all those were already fixed with the s3 so it's probably the same in comparison.
I don't find myself using the s-pen much.
As far as usability, I use my phone alot. I have 6 emails pushed through k9 mail, and use about 13,000 text messages monthly. So yeah I would consider myself a heavy phone user.
In the end, buy it if you want a big screen. But if you are okay with the s3 screen size, to me, save your money.
Those are just my thoughts. Of course you will be getting bias reviews on this dedicated note 2 forum.. So be aware of that.
S3 is still in my opinion, a very nice phone. Fast as he'll and fast radio locks
I'm a big guy. 6 foot 4 240 pounds . I hate carrying around small phones. I wanted the iphone and its just to small for me. I got the note 2. I love it ! And jelly bean is great. This is the phone I have been waiting for , for a while.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Best phone ever made so far IMO. I'm not big about using the S Pen... mostly a novelty for me. I was huge flasher on evo and the S2 but this phone feels like everything just came together.
Yes, one handed use is slightly awkward and might want to be careful with in case of a drop but hey, no one needs to be texting on the road anyways! I'm a pilot so I'm constantly pulling my luggage through the airport and need to glance at my phone to check a gate or something one handed... its OK for that, but any extensive texting would be difficult. Really this is my only concern... dropping the phone.
Spec wise, the phone is cutting edge. Its snappy and its a dream. So like the other guys said, it really comes down to screen size. I love big screens and I cannot lie... I'm willing to sacrifice a little mobility for that any day!
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda premium
Had the evo gnex and s3 before this note 2 and the note blows everything outta the water.
At the end of the day its ur decision
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda premium
I loved my GS3 and I sold mine to get the note 2. I am not a professional or an unboxer. The note 2 is pretty much just like the GS3 but bigger and has a stylus. My stylus is a little bit sensitive, i need to turn it down as soon as I figure out how to get the button cover off. I play draw something everyday. On my GS3 it was really glitchy. On the note 2 its not as glitchy. There are a few extra features like being able to set the keyboard to the right or to the left to help with one handed usability. The battery lasts an awful long time! I had an extended battery on my GS3 but I dont need one for my note 2. I love it! I hated being without my GS3 after I sold it, but the note 2 is worth it!
And also don't forget that the battery life on this phone is absolutely phenomenal
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
There is a1 handed option in setting s that sets your keyboard and dialer to the right or left side of the phone for easier one handed texting. It's an awesome feature for such a big phone...beyond that i had the moment, then the epic, then the e4gt, skipped the s3 because of the announcement of this phone and no disappointment. It's awesome
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
trim81 said:
Honestly?
I'm a phone guy.
I tried it all. From htc evo, to evo 3d, to galaxy epic og, to epic touch s2 to galaxy.s3, etc etc.
And I also own my own cell phone business.
With that being said, personally, to me, all androids are alike.
I know there can be many arguments with my statement, with core speeds, etc etc etc, but we are all on xda site anyway, so we are probably all rooters and flashaholics.
The ONLY difference, again in my opinion, are screen size on devices. That differentiates the devices and performance of the the phone.
Now for the review? I liked the s2 epic touch, I owned it since launch day, then I went to the s3 about 3 weeks after launch.
The s2 to s3 conversion, to me, was not a big upgrade. Sure it was a bugger screen estate, but not much for me to jump ship. I wanted a bigger screen.
With that, I resold the s3 and went back to the s2. And now I'm on my note 2.
I'm not a professional reviewer or any of that sort. I just know cell phones. It's what I do for a living. And personally, with every android device, I titanium backup my preference and settings back to my desired look between phones, so I'm probably not the best reviewer out there.
If you want a big screen, this phone is for you. But be aware that it's VERY CHALLENGING to text with one hand, or give a quick reply when driving on the road. That's my only gripe.
Gps locks are fast, reception is great. But all those were already fixed with the s3 so it's probably the same in comparison.
I don't find myself using the s-pen much.
As far as usability, I use my phone alot. I have 6 emails pushed through k9 mail, and use about 13,000 text messages monthly. So yeah I would consider myself a heavy phone user.
In the end, buy it if you want a big screen. But if you are okay with the s3 screen size, to me, save your money.
Those are just my thoughts. Of course you will be getting bias reviews on this dedicated note 2 forum.. So be aware of that.
S3 is still in my opinion, a very nice phone. Fast as he'll and fast radio locks
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Your thanks meter just went up. I appreciate u honest experience.
mrush said:
Best phone ever made so far IMO. I'm not big about using the S Pen... mostly a novelty for me. I was huge flasher on evo and the S2 but this phone feels like everything just came together.
Yes, one handed use is slightly awkward and might want to be careful with in case of a drop but hey, no one needs to be texting on the road anyways! I'm a pilot so I'm constantly pulling my luggage through the airport and need to glance at my phone to check a gate or something one handed... its OK for that, but any extensive texting would be difficult. Really this is my only concern... dropping the phone.
Spec wise, the phone is cutting edge. Its snappy and its a dream. So like the other guys said, it really comes down to screen size. I love big screens and I cannot lie... I'm willing to sacrifice a little mobility for that any day!
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda premium
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I need the s pen to take note in class. The size is a bonus.
loveshinesthru said:
I loved my GS3 and I sold mine to get the note 2. I am not a professional or an unboxer. The note 2 is pretty much just like the GS3 but bigger and has a stylus. My stylus is a little bit sensitive, i need to turn it down as soon as I figure out how to get the button cover off. I play draw something everyday. On my GS3 it was really glitchy. On the note 2 its not as glitchy. There are a few extra features like being able to set the keyboard to the right or to the left to help with one handed usability. The battery lasts an awful long time! I had an extended battery on my GS3 but I dont need one for my note 2. I love it! I hated being without my GS3 after I sold it, but the note 2 is worth it!
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Guess how much my early upgrade fee? $220. On top of that the phone will be $300 so im looking about $520+ nc tax too
K.0.0.L. said:
Guess how much my early upgrade fee? $220. On top of that the phone will be $300 so im looking about $520+ nc tax too
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yikes! for 8 months? my brothers upgrade was due in may but contract up in july. he only had to pay 100. I sold my GS3 on ebay for 430. It was rooted and had cases and extended batteries. I sold it as soon as I heard the note 2 was coming. Plus mine was only a month old. It sure helped for covering the cost.
I think its hiliarious but I have this friend who swears that his nexus is far better than my gs2. Yeah I have a slightly lower resolution but thats it. I have a proc that will oc to 1.86ghz, gpu that will oc up to what 320mhz. Oh wait I have an sd card slot whoot. He thinks that benchmarks dont tell the truth about a phone, well thats what they are made for to test, ram, cpu, graphics its all there. I guess you just cant convince everyone. It's funny because he says my phone is old and im not even using JB so that'll make it that much more quick when I upgrade. But what ev's
Just something to talk about, thought it was funny
90.114 linpack multi thread
4340 quadrant
9830 Antutu- the new one
once ptmr3 comes out with oc on his kernel it will be the SH**
Using Jedi Knight 5
timenewton said:
I think its hiliarious but I have this friend who swears that his nexus is far better than my gs2. Yeah I have a slightly lower resolution but thats it. I have a proc that will oc to 1.86ghz, gpu that will oc up to what 320mhz. Oh wait I have an sd card slot whoot. He thinks that benchmarks dont tell the truth about a phone, well thats what they are made for to test, ram, cpu, graphics its all there. I guess you just cant convince everyone. It's funny because he says my phone is old and im not even using JB so that'll make it that much more quick when I upgrade. But what ev's
Just something to talk about, thought it was funny
90.114 linpack multi thread
4340 quadrant
9830 Antutu- the new one
once ptmr3 comes out with oc on his kernel it will be the SH**
Using Jedi Knight 5
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I think this phone matches nexus easily in every aspect almost. Nexus is not better. This phone has great developers and there's nothing it can't do that the nexus can.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk
richardlibeau said:
I think this phone matches nexus easily in every aspect almost. Nexus is not better. This phone has great developers and there's nothing it can't do that the nexus can.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk
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Indeed.
Besides, the Nexus 4 thread is actually spammed with people having problems with the phone, phone "breaks" randomly in their pocket, pics of broken Nexus 4s, etc
Sent from my potato running GLaDOS
I gotta laugh at everyone that said the n4 blowwwwws the t989 out of the water in every way. Lol
First....go to the n4 forum and read the problems people are having.
Second ...a friend of mine got one...I played with it a bit. Severely unimpressed. Sure its speedy....but barely quicker than my t989. The display looks like crap compared to mine. And it simply seems fragile! Very!
I will hold on to my Hercules til it breaks or my contract ends and I feel like replacing it. Maybe. My phone does everything I want it too very well. So until phones will do my dishes and tune up my car....I'll maybe stick with what I got. Lol
As far as the n4 goes.....I doubt I'd even trade my phone for it. Actually ....no....I wouldn't.
Technical inferiority. It's sad that people have a right to have their own opinions. This thread is hilarious. Please, lets get some more xda noobs in here to cry some more.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
RushAOZ said:
Technical inferiority. It's sad that people have a right to have their own opinions. This thread is hilarious. Please, lets get some more xda noobs in here to cry some more.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
TOO FUNNY!!! LMAO......LET'S GET SOME MORE NOOBS IN HERE TO CRY SOME MORE.....PRICELESS!!!
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Had a T989 but switched to Nexus 4 and believe me this phone is better in every way... screen, battery life, look and feel, great build quality, super fast and smooth, the two gigs of ram makes multitasking a joy, and I don't have to wait for xda developers to bring me the latest updates... all I can say is get you one
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Galaxy S2 is a typical Samsung POS, the Nexus 4 is more akin in design to an iPhone. In other words, its insanely awesome
Sent from my HTC Sensation
lonz358 said:
Had a T989 but switched to Nexus 4 and believe me this phone is better in every way... screen, battery life, look and feel, great build quality, super fast and smooth, the two gigs of ram makes multitasking a joy, and I don't have to wait for xda developers to bring me the latest updates... all I can say is get you one
Think I will ask Santa to bring me one.......NOT!!! Maybe a Lexus but not a Nexus!!!!
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RushAOZ said:
Technical inferiority. It's sad that people have a right to have their own opinions. This thread is hilarious. Please, lets get some more xda noobs in here to cry some more.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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Lol. Where's your n4 then?
What a Dink! Lol
If XDA frowns upon opinions....let them say so....otherwise shhhhh. Wow!
P.s. the only crying I've seen in this thread is from you....crying about noobs and their inferior opinions. Lol
richardlibeau said:
lonz358 said:
Think I will ask Santa to bring me one.......NOT!!!
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:thumbup:
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
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Seriously though to each his own I like sg2 thats just my preference.. Some like htc and motorola phones to me most of them are ugly damn phones but just my opinion. You like what you want as long as your happy with it right? That"s all that counts in the end of the battle of the phones. I am happy with my hercules for now!!!
richardlibeau said:
Seriously though to each his own I like sg2 thats just my preference.. Some like htc and motorola phones to me most of them are ugly damn phones but just my opinion. You like what you want as long as your happy with it right? That"s all that counts in the end of the battle of the phones. I am happy with my hercules for now!!!
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+1. Well put!!
kj2112 said:
Lol. Where's your n4 then?
What a Dink! Lol
If XDA frowns upon opinions....let them say so....otherwise shhhhh. Wow!
P.s. the only crying I've seen in this thread is from you....crying about noobs and their inferior opinions. Lol
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I'm patiently waiting for shipping orders to finish. Then I'm selling this t989 and jumping ship back onto the Nexus. As far as what the guy up top said about development on the Nexus, clearly he's new to XDA. No phone has more dev support than the Nexus line does. In fact, much of your favorite AOSP roms were built and first released on Nexus devices. Not only that but Nexus devices always get Google's newest OS' first. The t989 doesn't even have full Jelly Bean GPU driver support.. you guys don't even know what project butter truly is yet.
Second, the t989s dual core s3/adreno 220 SoC cannot in anyway whatsoever compete with the quad s4 pro/adreno 320 SoC. You can clock this phone as high as you want and score 9000 on antutu and its still not enough to beat the 13,000 the s4 pro SoC averages.. and that's on stock builds.
Third, if you say the 720p IPS display isn't better than the 480p over saturated SAMOLED display on the t989, clearly you're either blind or couldn't tell a good display if one took a dump on your eyeballs. While blacks will never be as deep, color reproduction is much better on the Nexus 4. And if Voodoo follows suit like on the other Nexus devices, well be able to tweak and calibrate the screen to our will.
Battery life? Nexus 4 wins hands down. Build quality? The t989 looks like crap compared to the Nexus 4.
Working for T-Mobile, I've already played with about 4 Nexus 4s. They're beautiful devices. Super fast and smooth.
Now stop hating and come back to reality. This phone wasn't even better than the other GSIIs, let alone any flagship device released this year. We can all use the "my phone does everything well" excuse but frankly, so can my old single core Nexus S.
With that being said, you kids can continue making up all sorts of crazyness up in trying to justify your purchase over a brand new handset that's better in every conceivable way. It makes for some great comedy.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Don't take it so personal is all. No one was "crying" and some don't need the fastest phone on earth to be perfectly happy.
Seems the phone crowd has some min/maxers....which is fine ...their choice. I don't have a top of the line gaming computer either....my laptop "does what I want it to do" just fine. Just like my Hercules.
I will be keeping this phone for some time. I could buy an n4, or anything else for that matter, tomorrow .....but I feel no need to. That's me. Maybe not you.
Can't we all use whatever phone we want without the hate?
Read the n4 forum....many....many people saying the same things I said about the n4....I didnt make a call tho....so guess I missed out on hearing the buzzing everyone is excited about! Lol. Bottom line....for me.....never bought an LG product I was happy with.
Take care dude....guess you'll be off to live in the n4 forums!
kj2112 said:
Don't take it so personal is all. No one was "crying" and some don't need the fastest phone on earth to be perfectly happy.
Seems the phone crowd has some min/maxers....which is fine ...their choice. I don't have a top of the line gaming computer either....my laptop "does what I want it to do" just fine. Just like my Hercules.
I will be keeping this phone for some time. I could buy an n4, or anything else for that matter, tomorrow .....but I feel no need to. That's me. Maybe not you.
Can't we all use whatever phone we want without the hate?
Read the n4 forum....many....many people saying the same things I said about the n4....I didnt make a call tho....so guess I missed out on hearing the buzzing everyone is excited about! Lol. Bottom line....for me.....never bought an LG product I was happy with.
Take care dude....guess you'll be off to live in the n4 forums!
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Well see, your opinion makes sense. I can dig that. Unfortunately that's not the OPs reasoning as he full out stated that the t989 is better. You can be happy with whatever device you want. You can't take that away from anyone. But facts are facts. And this device doesn't come anywhere close to a Nexus 4. That's all I'm saying.
Anyways this thread is troll bait. Someone close it lol
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Nice! Lol. Telling people in the n4 forum to come troll this thread!
Enjoy your n4....don't drop it 3 feet tho....heard bad things will happen! Lol
kj2112 said:
Nice! Lol. Telling people in the n4 forum to come troll this thread!
Enjoy your n4....don't drop it 3 feet tho....heard bad things will happen! Lol
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I won't. I haven't even dropped my t989 once in the 9 months I've had it. Don't jinx me though! And yea I told them to troll. This thread is troll bait. Thought it would make for a good show > haha
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
kj2112 said:
Nice! Lol. Telling people in the n4 forum to come troll this thread!
Enjoy your n4....don't drop it 3 feet tho....heard bad things will happen! Lol
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Dropped it twice, waist high, No problems here seriously it's a phone with glass, just like the t989(don't think the t989 has gorilla glass 2 though) but if your not careful its going to break like every other phone.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
As a former T989 owner and a current nexus 4 owner, this thread makes me laugh (and I was running AOKP jellybean on mine). Don't get me wrong, I loved my hercules and it is still a great phone, but let's be realistic here. The nexus 4 is hands down a better device in almost every way possible.
Screen
The display is far from "carp". Yes, if you are used to AMOLED displays (like the one on the T989), you will initially find the colors to be "washed out". But in reality, this is because AMOLED screens have grossly over-saturated and unrealistic colors. The blacks are not as deep as AMOLED but they are damn close (again this is due to the nature of IPS displays). Nexus 4 screen is much much sharper, the whites are actually white (and not blue like the one on the T989) and colors are more natural. There is a reason why most reviewers rate is as one of the best displays on any phone. IMO, there is no competition here.
Performance
Again, there is a big difference here (even with JB on the T989). Nexus 4 is smoother and snappier in general use. But heavy usage like gaming is where the biggest difference lies. As for benchmarks, the lower than expected scores are due to benchmark programs not being optimised for 4.2 (go see the difference between the new and old version of Antutu). And honestly, in reality, benchmarks don't mean s***. All I need to know is that this phone handles everything I throw at it without any hiccups and certainly much better than the T989. If you think that a two gen old dual core with 1 Gb ram preforms as a well as the current top end quad core with twice the ram, you are delusional.
Storage and battery
Storage is the only area where T989 has an advantage with its micro sd slot. If you are the type of person that needs to store all of your life on your phone then nexus 4 is not for you. Personally, I barely store anything on my phone (I had used up only about 4 gb of the internal space on my t989) as everything is on the cloud, so even the 8GB nexus 4 is more than enough. Again this is a personal thing so it's a disadvantage for some people but not others.
Battery life for me has been much better on the nexus 4 than on the t989. Obviously, everyone's usage is different so this will vary from person to person, but I'm extremely happy with mine.
Build quality
Here again, there is no competition. The nexus 4 has a much more solid build and has a very premium feel to it. My T989's plastic back started to creak like crazy just after a few days of owning it and it drove me crazy. I thought I was using a low-end entry level device rather than a premium product.
Yes the nexus has a glass back and yes glass cracks when you drop it...who knew huh? So if you are the type to drop your phone frequently, don't buy it or just get a case for it, end of story.
As for the problems being reported, very few newly released devices are without issues and this is a fact. T989 had it's fair share of problems, some of which have still not been fixed till this day (sticky power button anyone?). If you are someone who can't handle even a minor problem with your device, than a newly released phone is not for you (whether it be a nexus 4 or something else). And let's not forget that problems reported on online forums can be blown out of proportion. After all, only those who have issues are going to complain, while those without issues will probably remain silent. Personally, my nexus 4 is flawless, except for the slight static/buzzing problem from the earpiece reported by many people. However, this noise is very faint and inaudible during calls, so this is a non-issue for me. I'm confident that google will fix the issue and when they do, I will ask them to send me a replacement. After all, that's what the warranty is there for. In the mean time, I'm really enjoying owning this phone over my t989.
Oh and let's not forget about the pure android experience and the fact that you will get updates as soon as google releases them. Even if you are into modding, the nexus is the best phone for that as well as its modding community has always been the strongest out of any android phone. You guys really need to step back and look at things objectively here. As someone who has owned and lived with both phones, I can tell you that there is no competition between the two.