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Hi,
I first posted this help request on Nokia Support Discussions on August 13, but amazingly I received no reply to date (I can't insert the link since I have no privileges for that as a new user).
I am experimenting a very weird and annoying problem with my Lumia 900. Some weeks ago, the volume level during the phone call became suddenly very low and barely noticeable. I can hardly hear the other speaker both calling and receiving a phone call. Apparently this behaviour is restricted to the phone call feature in normal mode. If I press the loudspeaker button, for example, I can hear the conversation perfectly as usual. Same using my earpiece: I can hear and talk without any problem. Moreover, the audio output appears to be OK outside the phone call itself: when using apps, music, games or any other feature except the phone call, I can't spot anything abnormal in the volume level, everything appears to work properly.
I would like to point out that:
1) the volume level during the call is set to the max. level as usual (10/10)
2) the master volume of the device, as set though both right-hand buttons, is set as usual to the max. level (30/30).
3) I turned off and on the device, I removed and reinserted the SIM card many times since then, unfortunately the problem persists
4) I did not notice any other problem before this happened, nor the device suffered any "catastrophic" event (such as drop, water or similar).
Basically, I can only hear a speaker during a phone call either keeping the loudspeaker always on or using the earpiece. It's like my call volume were set to 1 or 2, while it is actually set to 10.
Can you help me determine whether this issue may be software or hardware related in first place? Unfortunately bringing it to the Nokia Customer Care is not the first option for me at the moment. I bought my device in Europe, but I am currently in South America. I may consider using the local Nokia Customer Care and paying a fee, but first I would like some clarifications from engineers or advanced users.
Finally, a guy on another forum suggested me a hard reset. I confess I never did that before, is there any step-by-step instruction for this? Or does it make sense to wait for the next software update through Zune (currently I have 8779.12201, a new update however has been already released and should be available for my language within days or weeks).
Thank you very much in advance for any useful information
You can wait for the update or try a hard reset. A reset will restore you phone to factory fresh, so you will lose everything currently stored on the phone; photos, apps, messages, settings, etc. So be sure to sync with Zune to backup photos and videos first, and sync with your Live ID mail account to sync contacts. Restoring email accounts, contacts, apps and media are all easy, but could take a few hours (depending on how many apps you have). If you prepare for the reset (as you can) it makes things easier.
If your other option is to send you phone out for service, that could take weeks. So while painful, rh hard reset is the "quick" fix. If your volume problem persists after the hard reset, then you know its hardware related (be sure to check before and after installing any apps to eliminate any possibilities). If so, and after telling Nokia Care that a hard reset didn't solve the problem, it might just get you a replacement. Quicker than sending it out for an inspection. Hope you get it worked out.
Sent from my Lumia 900 using Board Express Pro
It makes no sense to wait. I assume you are still under your initial warranty, so do the hard reset...after, as jimski says, you save off any pics or music specific to the device. You will lose SMS and SMS history , and any game scores.
Use reinstalled to reinstall apps after the reset, to get or apps installed more quickly.
Hard reset is a harsh way to test this out. However, if you test the phone before reinstalling apps, you cut to the chase real quick. If this is a hardware issue, do NOT wait for a fix. Replace the device and be done with it.
Good luck
First of all, many thanks to you both for your kind reply. It is refreshing to finally have someone listening to you when you really need.
It appears that a hard reset should be the first step to do in any case. While I have no idea when the next update with Zune will be available for my language, I can try to solve the problem alone. Is there any tested step-by step procedure for flashing Lumia 900 or Lumia devices in general? If yes, would you please point me there with a link?
Both your replies convinced me that bringing the phone to the Nokia Customer Care here in South America is definitely not a good idea. Yes, I am still under my initial warranty, I bought my device end of June, the problem is that I bought it in Europe, so my warranty is not supposed to cover me here. If the issue is at hardware level, there is very little they can do here for me without to exburse a lot of money, not to talk about the waste of time. Should the hard reset not work, I guess I'll have to wait for my next travel to Europe or having someone bringing it there for me to have my device replaced.
Anyway, I will let you now about any progress.
Many thanks for your help.
barrel owl said:
First of all, many thanks to you both for your kind reply. It is refreshing to finally have someone listening to you when you really need.
It appears that a hard reset should be the first step to do in any case. While I have no idea when the next update with Zune will be available for my language, I can try to solve the problem alone. Is there any tested step-by step procedure for flashing Lumia 900 or Lumia devices in general? If yes, would you please point me there with a link?
Both your replies convinced me that bringing the phone to the Nokia Customer Care here in South America is definitely not a good idea. Yes, I am still under my initial warranty, I bought my device end of June, the problem is that I bought it in Europe, so my warranty is not supposed to cover me here. If the issue is at hardware level, there is very little they can do here for me without to exburse a lot of money, not to talk about the waste of time. Should the hard reset not work, I guess I'll have to wait for my next travel to Europe or having someone bringing it there for me to have my device replaced.
Anyway, I will let you now about any progress.
Many thanks for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll start by saying, the Hard Reset will not force you to re-flash your phone. It just resets it back to stock settings. This is in fact the easiest and best way to try to resolve problems with your phone. To do so, go into your settings menu. Go to About, and scroll down to 'reset your phone', tap that, and follow instructions. This will delete all your data and messages, so be sure you've backed up first.
If you Absolutely NEED to flash your phone back to OEM Stock, you can use my link here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1605144
One other thing to check (and what I suspect to be the problem) is the speaker itself. It sounds to me like you either have a failing speaker, or something is in the speaker hole. Look closely at it and see if there is dirt/lint/chocolate/peanuts/earwax/etc packed in the speaker grill. It's pretty easy for this to happen. Try blowing it out with canned air and see if that helps. Otherwise, it's probable that the speaker is going out or the connection is failing.
Good Luck, and be sure you decide before your warranty is gone. Send it off ASAP if the above items don't help. PS: Flashing back to stock may void your warranty, so decide if you want to take that chance, rather than wait for repair to return it.
Thank you very much again for your time. And yes, I had found that link in this forum and was already duly reading it. I just did not post this because I still have no privileges to post links.
SuperSport said:
One other thing to check (and what I suspect to be the problem) is the speaker itself. It sounds to me like you either have a failing speaker, or something is in the speaker hole. Look closely at it and see if there is dirt/lint/chocolate/peanuts/earwax/etc packed in the speaker grill. It's pretty easy for this to happen. Try blowing it out with canned air and see if that helps. Otherwise, it's probable that the speaker is going out or the connection is failing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One last question. Would you please clarify whether Lumia 900 has one or more speakers? The speaker grill on the bottom of the device has apparently no noticeable dirt or other foreign material inside it, anyway I will try blow it with air, maybe it will help. One thing I can't explain to me is why everything appears to be OK with the volume level except during phone calls. As I mentioned in my first post, the audio output with music, apps, games etc. is normal. When I use the loudspeaker in phone calls, no problem. So the question: is there any other speaker in Lumia 900 which is used for phone calls, for example on the top of the device? I don't think so, but if yes, this would definitely point to a hardware problem of THAT speaker.
Anyway, I will let you know about any progress.
Kind regards
barrel owl said:
Thank you very much again for your time. And yes, I had found that link in this forum and was already duly reading it. I just did not post this because I still have no privileges to post links.
One last question. Would you please clarify whether Lumia 900 has one or more speakers? The speaker grill on the bottom of the device has apparently no noticeable dirt or other foreign material inside it, anyway I will try blow it with air, maybe it will help. One thing I can't explain to me is why everything appears to be OK with the volume level except during phone calls. As I mentioned in my first post, the audio output with music, apps, games etc. is normal. When I use the loudspeaker in phone calls, no problem. So the question: is there any other speaker in Lumia 900 which is used for phone calls, for example on the top of the device? I don't think so, but if yes, this would definitely point to a hardware problem of THAT speaker.
Anyway, I will let you know about any progress.
Kind regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are in fact two different speaker outlets. There's the one at the bottom which is speakerphone, games, apps, etc... Then there is the one at the top in that little slot. That's the one I suspect is either clogged, or going bad.
EDIT: Do you have a case installed that might be blocking that speaker?
SuperSport said:
There are in fact two different speaker outlets. There's the one at the bottom which is speakerphone, games, apps, etc... Then there is the one at the top in that little slot. That's the one I suspect is either clogged, or going bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got it. That makes (unfortunately) perfect sense. Chances are then that the issue is actually at hardware level
SuperSport said:
EDIT: Do you have a case installed that might be blocking that speaker?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No case.
Thanks a lot
Same issue with my lumia asian rom...
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Wow! I thought I was going crazy....'cause I've had the same issues for the past few months. When I got my Lumia 900, I was pleasantly surprised that my in-call volume actually DIDN'T need to be set to max (10/10), and I usually dialed it back to 8/10. Nice...but it began to get quiet so that even on 10/10 it was difficult to hear callers -- especially if I was standing outside. I thought it had to do with a ROM or firmware update, but so few people noted the same problem that I just assumed my phone was faulty.
<sigh>
Anyhow, I found this thread just 30 minutes ago, read through your story, and (for whatever reason) thought it thru more fully. I realized that since I keep my phone in my pocket, maybe the thin ear speaker grill (just above the screen) is full of lint?!? I grabbed a soft, dry toothbrush and took about 30 seconds to brush it out. I could actually see the debris clearing away. Made a test phone call and voila.........my earpiece volume is loud once again! Easy fix. Almost too easy
I hope this helps.
did you ever resolved the problem?
Hi guys love the forum finally joined !
So i recently bought ebay Lumia 900 they are going for cheap =) loving it!
In my case the speaker was working great actually the first week it was way too loud kept it under 7/10 all of a sudden now
i cant hear almost anything below 8/10 and when i go all the way to 10/10 it sounds muffled like a blown speaker already tried cleaning the grill
very carefully it had dust but that didn't help and also erased averything from the about settings
.
Anymore suggestions? Im in the latest update and obviously no warranty .
Thanks :cyclops:
Hi
Are there any updates on this problem,because I am also experiencing this and I think it happened after I did an update with Zune .
Thanks
Hard Reset to Nokia Lumia to address low volume during calls
How do you to a hard reset of the phone. I am ready to try that to solve the low volume problem. I literally took the phone out of the box on Thursday last week. I am getting very frustrated.
Thanks
The phone speakers make a crackling popping noise periodically... i cant figure out what exactly triggers it and i dont think its necesarily just at high volume. The one way i know how to reproduce this every time is to run antutu benchmark and try to turn the volume all the way down and all the way up while the first video benchmark (i think its called maroon) is running. the speakers will crackle through several of the adjustements.
Anyone else experiencing this? Do you think this is a software issue or a factory defect? I could listen to music for a halfhour straight and not have an issue as long as im not doing anything else with the device which makes me think its more of a software issue when volume is being adjusted or other operation where the volume is being toggled (i.e it has also happened while receiving a notification where the first milliseconds of the notification alert will play and then it will "crackle-out")
I did a complete factory reset and booted total stock and still had the issue so its not root or any modification related.
Hey, i have the same problem! Did you contact the support?
CBlues said:
Hey, i have the same problem! Did you contact the support?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I contacted support and the tech said they didn't get any other reports of this happening and said it might be a hardware issue but then they forwarded me to Verizon to get a replacement phone... then Verizon told me it's not a hardware problem it's a software problem so I can't get a replacement. I am convinced that it is a software problem because of the symptoms of otherwise normally working speakers but at the same time I am very surprised that there aren't tons of other people bringing this up. I am also not sure where to report this bug to google
diabl0w said:
The phone speakers make a crackling popping noise periodically... i cant figure out what exactly triggers it and i dont think its necesarily just at high volume. The one way i know how to reproduce this every time is to run antutu benchmark and try to turn the volume all the way down and all the way up while the first video benchmark (i think its called maroon) is running. the speakers will crackle through several of the adjustements.
Anyone else experiencing this? Do you think this is a software issue or a factory defect? I could listen to music for a halfhour straight and not have an issue as long as im not doing anything else with the device which makes me think its more of a software issue when volume is being adjusted or other operation where the volume is being toggled (i.e it has also happened while receiving a notification where the first milliseconds of the notification alert will play and then it will "crackle-out")
I did a complete factory reset and booted total stock and still had the issue so its not root or any modification related.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I have heard of this... Its in the forums somewhere...
Tell VZW to STFU and send you a new one. :angel:
I've been experiencing a similar issue. Pixel XL 128GB.
I notice sporadic stuttering in the video and audio whenever playing videos, either through YouTube or Chrome. I don't really notice it anywhere else, which leads me to believe it's a software issue. Potentially a bug in the video decoders. I haven't contacted Google support yet.
I had the same exact problem with my Verizon one, it happened twice in a week of owning it, it bothered me so I ended up returning it, back to my s7e!
---------- Post added at 04:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:35 PM ----------
When it first started happening to me I couldn't find any others talking about the issue so I thought I was alone lol
My 32gb XL has been doing it too. I generally use bluetooth headphones, so it's not a big deal, but it is certainly something I've noticed when trying to use the in-phone speaker.
diabl0w said:
I contacted support and the tech said they didn't get any other reports of this happening and said it might be a hardware issue but then they forwarded me to Verizon to get a replacement phone... then Verizon told me it's not a hardware problem it's a software problem so I can't get a replacement. I am convinced that it is a software problem because of the symptoms of otherwise normally working speakers but at the same time I am very surprised that there aren't tons of other people bringing this up. I am also not sure where to report this bug to google
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Obviously they are lying! See my post from 11/11/2016!http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=69576560&postcount=109
Scott said:
Actually I have heard of this... Its in the forums somewhere...
Tell VZW to STFU and send you a new one. :angel:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be me:silly:
Scott said:
Actually I have heard of this... Its in the forums somewhere...
Tell VZW to STFU and send you a new one. :angel:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ringochan said:
Obviously they are lying! See my post from 11/11/2016!http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=69576560&postcount=109
:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks guys, so I contacted Verizon and they had the nerve to tell me that they would replace it but only with a "like new" device. What a joke. So basically they told me well **** you and that sucks that we sent you a broken phone so here's somebody else's old broken one. such a slap to the face.
I didn't have the time to sit an argue so I will have to either call back another time or go to a store
I'm contacting support about this now. I only notice it when I'm using my Daydream View headset though. But does anyone know if it's safe to perform a factory data reset if I'm rooted with custom kernel?
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
I have the same issue. Here is where I posted about it.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/help/pixel-xl-speaker-issue-t3483952/page3
I contacted Google. They want me to send my phone back and after they got it they will send me a replacement...
Being on Verizon I am also afraid that I'll get shipped a phone with a locked bootloader, I am still trying to figure out how I wanna handle this
Same here. Sending back for a new one.
diabl0w said:
Being on Verizon I am also afraid that I'll get shipped a phone with a locked bootloader, I am still trying to figure out how I wanna handle this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can send you phone back to the Google store if you speak to the right person. But you will have to send it then they will send you another. But beware they are already sending used phones as replacements just as Verizon is. Many have returned their device for many different reasons. This is a nice phone and we all like Google but this phone has the worst customer service I've ever seen displayed versus a nexus. Google will actually argue with you to assure you there's nothing wrong with your phone even though you have it in your hand and know there's something wrong. And in all honesty every phone should be recalled because of the lens flare if the camera. That's a major issue noteworthy if a recall. Google doesn't want scar of their first all Google phone to tarnish their image and branding. I spoke to Google cs and the rep was totally real and honest starting that the camera has caused many phones to be replaced knowing all of them have the same camera issue. He said they've replaced do many phones that it had caused a delay of others getting their phones. Google actually has phones that are new put aside for replacing defective phones and they've used all of their stock as replacements. Hence the reason after two months they are already sending out used replacements.
I think I am going to take it to a Verizon store tomorrow because the process of showing them the issue will be a lot easier and maybe they have older phones in stock that don't have locked bootloader
Hey everyone!,
Im thinking of moving up to a G5 within the next month or 2 because the G3 has caused me way to many problems for me.
Let me list out what faults I have found with my G3
_____________________________________________________________________________
- Wifi going off even when im near the router or probably a room or 2 away from it.
- Random bootloops
- Earphone jack problems <-- There are solutions out there but they haven't fixed it at all for me.
- Editing the Build.Prop on the headphones section but that didn't work either. (Back buttons stopped working lol)
_____________________________________________________________________________
These problems that im having to deal with everyday especially with the earphone jack problem when i'm at the gym It will constantly skip tracks, pauses tracks and opens google voice search. I even went to a phone repair shop and they can't fix it and told me to tell the manufacture to get a replacement even though i don't have no warranty on this device.
It's kinda getting to a point where I just don't want nothing to do with the phone anymore. I even went onto another rom to fix the problem but that doesn't do nothing at all.
So. What do you guys think G5 or Another phone?
HunterTubeHD said:
Hey everyone!,
Im thinking of moving up to a G5 within the next month or 2 because the G3 has caused me way to many problems for me.
Let me list out what faults I have found with my G3
_____________________________________________________________________________
- Wifi going off even when im near the router or probably a room or 2 away from it.
- Random bootloops
- Earphone jack problems <-- There are solutions out there but they haven't fixed it at all for me.
- Editing the Build.Prop on the headphones section but that didn't work either. (Back buttons stopped working lol)
_____________________________________________________________________________
These problems that im having to deal with everyday especially with the earphone jack problem when i'm at the gym It will constantly skip tracks, pauses tracks and opens google voice search. I even went to a phone repair shop and they can't fix it and told me to tell the manufacture to get a replacement even though i don't have no warranty on this device.
It's kinda getting to a point where I just don't want nothing to do with the phone anymore. I even went onto another rom to fix the problem but that doesn't do nothing at all.
So. What do you guys think G5 or Another phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think its worth the upgrade. I was able to fix the earphone jack problems by going into the Google app and disabling things.
I get random bootlooop when I overuse the phone and its at low charge( when it overheats and is at 15% or less battery)
I have literally disabled everything that triggers the voice search but yet still it changes music and pauses music all the time. I'm not too sure yet. Thanks for the tip though
sounds like your g3 is dying
just replace it, or get a g4. you shouldn't have those types of issues you discuss. they seem hardware related.
I have both G3 and G5 and to be honest, it the G5 isn't a great phone imo. The g3 runs better for me and the G5 I have had issues with the camera (telephoto one). The fingerprint sensor 9/10 times doesn't register correctly. It isn't worth upgrading to imo. The G5 made me realize that LG isn't a brand I'll consider for phones in the future, unless their quality goes way up. Go with OnePlus 3T, or wait for OnePlus 4 to come (here soon). Quality phones on the cheap with good community developer support.
As per the headphone issues, you can buy the headphone jack piece online. It's super easy to replace and the part is cheap. I wouldn't give up on your G3, very easy to replace parts on this device.
vincentanzalone said:
I have both G3 and G5 and to be honest, it the G5 isn't a great phone imo. The g3 runs better for me and the G5 I have had issues with the camera (telephoto one). The fingerprint sensor 9/10 times doesn't register correctly. It isn't worth upgrading to imo. The G5 made me realize that LG isn't a brand I'll consider for phones in the future, unless their quality goes way up. Go with OnePlus 3T, or wait for OnePlus 4 to come (here soon). Quality phones on the cheap with good community developer support.
As per the headphone issues, you can buy the headphone jack piece online. It's super easy to replace and the part is cheap. I wouldn't give up on your G3, very easy to replace parts on this device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the only thing within the space of 7 months it has already started to break down on me. But I've bought the G4 now but what I'll do is try to repair the earphone jack and see what i could do with the wifi problem. The G4 is coming tomorrow (Wednesday) but if this phone goes the same way as the g3 I'll most likely not go with LG phones again, I mean don't get me wrong the phone and camera is just outstanding to me but there is too many problems especially with it's famous bootloop that hasn't been fixed by lg even they admitted its a hardware fault.
resinis said:
sounds like your g3 is dying
just replace it, or get a g4. you shouldn't have those types of issues you discuss. they seem hardware related.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep! I managed to get a g4 now like i said before if this phone messes up on me (Touch wood it doesn't! aha) then I'll just go to another phone... and the earphone jack is easily replaceable so i may just get it repaired and see if i can get the wifi repaired there has to be a way to get it fixed.
Hi,
Since I bought this phone I have (randomly) problems in out and in calls.
The other day, I had a phone interview (that I couldn't hear anything because of it) so I decided to do something.
It could be in every call, the sound suddenly sound like the volume decreases to almost 0 and like I lost my signal together.
During those calls I'm with full 4G signal and now with Feb patch (the same issue was with January patch).
Is that a familiar issue?
I'm very frustrated that my $900 flagship can't do (almost) any calls.
No, not heard of this one before. Have you contacted Google for assistance?
sounds like an escort issue
efee123 said:
Hi,
Since I bought this phone I have (randomly) problems in out and in calls.
The other day, I had a phone interview (that I couldn't hear anything because of it) so I decided to do something.
It could be in every call, the sound suddenly sound like the volume decreases to almost 0 and like I lost my signal together.
During those calls I'm with full 4G signal and now with Feb patch (the same issue was with January patch).
Is that a familiar issue?
I'm very frustrated that my $900 flagship can't do (almost) any calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had call issues as well. Many times I've made a call that actually went through... But I couldn't hear a ring or the other person, and they couldn't hear me. I've been trying several things to track down the issue. I'm thinking it may have something to do with wearing a smartwatch....
The watch is somehow intercepting the call. I have a Samsung Gear S3
flex360 said:
sounds like an escort issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! ??
efee123 said:
Hi, Since I bought this phone I have (randomly) problems in out and in calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which carrier are you using?
Where in the World are your signals from?
Taimen_#1
Hey y'all, just for the record unfortunately the other day I had to RMA mine because all of the sudden no matter what I tried the other person couldn't hear me unless I put my mouth right up against the mic. I tried the latest factory image and restored to like new condition and everything else I could think of but the problem still persist.
Samuel Holland said:
Hey y'all, just for the record unfortunately the other day I had to RMA mine because all of the sudden no matter what I tried the other person couldn't hear me unless I put my mouth right up against the mic. I tried the latest factory image and restored to like new condition and everything else I could think of but the problem still persist.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had similar problems, google support was useless and just want to RMA to device every time. Um, how about you actually look at the code guys?
So I've used the US zenfone 6 for about a week and this is indeed a great solid phone. Below are my thoughts on the phone (my previous phone being a Pixel 2 XL):
What I liked:
1) Software: Asus did a very good job with the software; it feels like stock but they added a lot of very useful customizations and default apps that I would normally have to root/xposed to get. Asus really put a lot of thought into the small things.
2) sd card: It's really nice to have an expandable sdcard. I got the 64GB version because the sd card can compensate for the smaller internal capacity.
3) fast charging: I didn't time it but it charges very fast.
4) widescreen: It didn't really matter to me too much that the camera rotates, but the widescreen was very nice because I could get so much more in the shot. However one bad thing about it was that if I found a good shot/frame with the widescreen and then switched back to non-widescreen, the camera unit would reset back to its default 'resting' position and then I'd have to rotate the camera again to find my original 'good' shot.
5) the extra memory: I noticed that when I went back to any game in the background, it would load right where I left off instead of 'reloading' all the data again.
What I didn't like:
1) Weight: it's 205grams out of the box (without sdcard, sim card, or plastic case) ... even though their website advertises 181/190grams. It feels heavier and tires out my hand faster when I am holding it for long periods of time like playing games. I noticed it right off the bat (my Pixel 2 XL being 175grams). After a week though, I got used to the increased weight, but it still gets tiring.
2) vibration: The vibration is non-existent. You can hear it if the phone vibrates on the table, but when I tested it by calling myself while in my jeans expecting to feel something, I literally could not feel a thing... not even a tickle. What's the point in having a phone if I never know if someone calls or msgs me.
3) Bootloader: Unlocking the bootloader supposedly voids the warranty (even though US law prohibits that) and there currently is no way to re-lock the bootloader so I never got around to tinkering with custom roms, rooting, and flashing kernels. I could probably fight the voiding of my warranty, but nobody's got time for that. I missed my rooted modules and xposed apps. (Compare this to Google who will still honor my warranty as long as I relock the bootloader and put it back the way it was.)
4) touchscreen: While holding the phone, the screen would sometimes register a touch at the bottom right edge even when I didn't intend to. I thought it was my fault and that I was accidentally touching the screen somehow, but I eventually figured out that I wasn't doing anything wrong.
5) The size: I already knew the phone was slightly bigger when I purchased it, but I didn't expect it to be as uncomfortable to hold as it was. Not sure why but I think the extra thickness and the increased weight made it more tiring to hold.
What I'm conflicted about:
1) The battery life: The battery is almost 1500 mAh larger than my pixel which is very nice to have, but it also drained pretty fast. I realize that playing games on the phone does drain the phone quickly, but the extra battery, unscientifically speaking, didn't seem to help much. I'm also usually near an outlet so I could always charge. And when I am not, I could always bring a portable battery.
2) The cpu: I was expecting the phone to be noticeably/significantly faster than my pixel, but I didn't notice a difference. It's possible that the un-overclocked custom kernel that I installed improved the speed on my pixel, but there was no noticeable speed difference to warrant getting a new phone.
Same Boat
neo_lithic3K said:
So I've used the US zenfone 6 for about a week and this is indeed a great solid phone. Below are my thoughts on the phone (my previous phone being a Pixel 2 XL):
What I liked:
1) Software: Asus did a very good job with the software; it feels like stock but they added a lot of very useful customizations and default apps that I would normally have to root/xposed to get. Asus really put a lot of thought into the small things.
2) sd card: It's really nice to have an expandable sdcard. I got the 64GB version because the sd card can compensate for the smaller internal capacity.
3) fast charging: I didn't time it but it charges very fast.
4) widescreen: It didn't really matter to me too much that the camera rotates, but the widescreen was very nice because I could get so much more in the shot. However one bad thing about it was that if I found a good shot/frame with the widescreen and then switched back to non-widescreen, the camera unit would reset back to its default 'resting' position and then I'd have to rotate the camera again to find my original 'good' shot.
5) the extra memory: I noticed that when I went back to any game in the background, it would load right where I left off instead of 'reloading' all the data again.
What I didn't like:
1) Weight: it's 205grams out of the box (without sdcard, sim card, or plastic case) ... even though their website advertises 181/190grams. It feels heavier and tires out my hand faster when I am holding it for long periods of time like playing games. I noticed it right off the bat (my Pixel 2 XL being 175grams). After a week though, I got used to the increased weight, but it still gets tiring.
2) vibration: The vibration is non-existent. You can hear it if the phone vibrates on the table, but when I tested it by calling myself while in my jeans expecting to feel something, I literally could not feel a thing... not even a tickle. What's the point in having a phone if I never know if someone calls or msgs me.
3) Bootloader: Unlocking the bootloader supposedly voids the warranty (even though US law prohibits that) and there currently is no way to re-lock the bootloader so I never got around to tinkering with custom roms, rooting, and flashing kernels. I could probably fight the voiding of my warranty, but nobody's got time for that. I missed my rooted modules and xposed apps. (Compare this to Google who will still honor my warranty as long as I relock the bootloader and put it back the way it was.)
4) touchscreen: While holding the phone, the screen would sometimes register a touch at the bottom right edge even when I didn't intend to. I thought it was my fault and that I was accidentally touching the screen somehow, but I eventually figured out that I wasn't doing anything wrong.
5) The size: I already knew the phone was slightly bigger when I purchased it, but I didn't expect it to be as uncomfortable to hold as it was. Not sure why but I think the extra thickness and the increased weight made it more tiring to hold.
What I'm conflicted about:
1) The battery life: The battery is almost 1500 mAh larger than my pixel which is very nice to have, but it also drained pretty fast. I realize that playing games on the phone does drain the phone quickly, but the extra battery, unscientifically speaking, didn't seem to help much. I'm also usually near an outlet so I could always charge. And when I am not, I could always bring a portable battery.
2) The cpu: I was expecting the phone to be noticeably/significantly faster than my pixel, but I didn't notice a difference. It's possible that the un-overclocked custom kernel that I installed improved the speed on my pixel, but there was no noticeable speed difference to warrant getting a new phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am currently listing mine for sale right now. But my problems stem more from the software side of things. Like not supporting Dual Apps for all applications, Call recording not working in the US, Private SMS, etc.
The bootloader being unlocked prevents me returning the phone back to them. But if by Friday I get no offers I will contact Mobile Advance directly and see what they will charge me to return the phone with the bootloader unlocked.
There should be a way to relock the bootloader as I only used the phone for 2 hours before realizing all the things it lacked. I had to root to make sure all my modules worked.
I really wanted to keep it too. Anyway, Cheers. Sorry you are disappointed too.
Thanks for your overview. How were the speakers for you?
Great
troy5890 said:
Thanks for your overview. How were the speakers for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me the speakers are great. The hardware of the phone is top notch. As stated, my issue is on the software of side. Some might say superficial. For what I paid for the phone, it is honestly not bad at all.
As for the battery life, it is subjective because of the variations in use cases. I think it is good, not great compared to other phones I have used in the past that have had 5000mAh battery and above. But then again, they all didn't have the top of the line processor. Usually just mid range.
Call Recording
Damionix said:
I am currently listing mine for sale right now. But my problems stem more from the software side of things. Like not supporting Dual Apps for all applications, Call recording not working in the US, Private SMS, etc.
The bootloader being unlocked prevents me returning the phone back to them. But if by Friday I get no offers I will contact Mobile Advance directly and see what they will charge me to return the phone with the bootloader unlocked.
There should be a way to relock the bootloader as I only used the phone for 2 hours before realizing all the things it lacked. I had to root to make sure all my modules worked.
I really wanted to keep it too. Anyway, Cheers. Sorry you are disappointed too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to say that I have the US version and call recording is working fine for me. Do you know if you set it up correctly? If you have any questions I can try to help.
Really?
Hoodnj said:
Just wanted to say that I have the US version and call recording is working fine for me. Do you know if you set it up correctly? If you have any questions I can try to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you have it working? Is it with a third party app rooted? Or with the built-in phone app?
With the built -in phone app, it says recording but after the call, the call recording folder is empty.
Damionix said:
How do you have it working? Is it with a third party app rooted? Or with the built-in phone app?
With the built -in phone app, it says recording but after the call, the call recording folder is empty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just turned on the setting in the phone app and it has worked for me ever since. I'm using the built in phone app and I haven't rooted or unlocked bootloader so it is 100% stock right now (I don't even have the August security patch yet). The settings are weird because they are split in two different places.
To get to the first place you:
Open the phone app > three dots (top right) > call recordings > three dots (top right) > settings
For the second place you:
Open the phone app > three dots (top right) > settings > call > advanced > call recording
Oh My Gosh
Hoodnj said:
I just turned on the setting in the phone app and it has worked for me ever since. I'm using the built in phone app and I haven't rooted or unlocked bootloader so it is 100% stock right now (I don't even have the August security patch yet). The settings are weird because they are split in two different places.
To get to the first place you:
Open the phone app > three dots (top right) > call recordings > three dots (top right) > settings
For the second place you:
Open the phone app > three dots (top right) > settings > call > advanced > call recording
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I had factory reset the phone and prepared it for sale. After reading what you said, I turned it on again, inserted my SIM and did a test call and it recorded both times with no issues whatsoever. I wonder what the issue could have been. I am positive I gave it all the rights and access it asked for. Weird. But it is working now. Thanks. I am beginning to reconsider selling it. That is one huge thing ticked off the list. And to my surprise too, Google Voice notifications are now working just fine. No issues. You must have brought me good luck
Damionix said:
Well, I had factory reset the phone and prepared it for sale. After reading what you said, I turned it on again, inserted my SIM and did a test call and it recorded both times with no issues whatsoever. I wonder what the issue could have been. I am positive I gave it all the rights and access it asked for. Weird. But it is working now. Thanks. I am beginning to reconsider selling it. That is one huge thing ticked off the list. And to my surprise too, Google Voice notifications are now working just fine. No issues. You must have brought me good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had similar issues with phones in the past where things didn't work for no apparent reason and we're solved with a factory reset with seemingly no change. But call recording was also a big thing for me so I made sure to check before I bought it that that was included. Can't say anything about the Google Voice notifications as I don't use it but I'm glad I could bring the good luck and let me know if there is something else I could help you with. Personally I am loving the my Z6 and will definitely be keeping it.
I would have thought that xposed or other rooted apps would be able to give you the features you need (dual apps, call recording, etc)... but I don't know enough about those features to offer a solution.
In regards to getting your money back, you can also look into your credit card to see if it offers return protection. My Chase Sapphire Reserve will refund me up to $500 per item if the vendor won't take it back. American Express Blue also has offers return protection up to $300 per item. Other credit cards may have similar benefits, but you'll need to read their fine print to get all the details.. This won't apply in your situation, but if an item is accidentally damaged, credit cards usually will refund the cost of the device, I think up to $1000 or something like that.
Damionix said:
I am currently listing mine for sale right now. But my problems stem more from the software side of things. Like not supporting Dual Apps for all applications, Call recording not working in the US, Private SMS, etc.
The bootloader being unlocked prevents me returning the phone back to them. But if by Friday I get no offers I will contact Mobile Advance directly and see what they will charge me to return the phone with the bootloader unlocked.
There should be a way to relock the bootloader as I only used the phone for 2 hours before realizing all the things it lacked. I had to root to make sure all my modules worked.
I really wanted to keep it too. Anyway, Cheers. Sorry you are disappointed too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I almost never use the speakers, but when I tested it, it was fine. It's not top of the line sound and it sounds more tin-ny and slightly less bass than my Pixel 2 XL, but I wouldn't have noticed that unless I was comparing them side by side. The Zenfone 6's speakers can get very loud though, to the point of hurting my ears, which is a plus.... whereas the Pixel 2 XL can't get that loud.
troy5890 said:
Thanks for your overview. How were the speakers for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I returned mine as well.
No Wifi Calling
No VoLTE
I'm on T-Mobile (or a MVNO of it), and the call quality was horrible.
Dialing a number also was the pits. As I would get a spinning circle for more than 10 seconds, before connecting to the network, and attempting to dial.
Sometimes, it would never dial the number, even though, I had 3 and 4 bars showing on the phone.
Sound quality was OK, but, I was expecting a little more. (yes, I tried different audio settings too)
The cameras, were fun, took good pictures, but, for me, didn't quite have the color exposure or "POP" I thought I should get with a 48MP camera (set in 48MP mode)
This was Version C (USA phone). Very disappointed!
I'm seriously considering returning mine....
I just created another thread specifically about the ultra-weak, useless vibration. I've missed more notifications in my first week of ownership than I ever have, even on budget phones.
I am joining this club of returning the device. I received RMA to return my device. My reasons for returning are,
1. The flip camera is making tapping noise when not in use. When the phone is in our pocket and while walking it is making tapping noise.
2. Device is heavier than expected.
3. Rear fingerprint scanner is a nuisance when put the phone in car holder. We have to use key pad to unlock. Front scanner is more convenient.
The alternate phone I have ordered is xioami mi 9. I heard that this phone ticks all boxes of a flagship phone and half the price of flagship phones.
Sent from my OP 5 using Tapatalk
I also have a similar issue as you this 4) touchscreen: While holding the phone, the screen would sometimes register a touch at the bottom right edge even when I didn't intend to. I thought it was my fault and that I was accidentally touching the screen somehow, but I eventually figured out that I wasn't doing anything wrong.
Does anyone else have this issue or know of a fix? Other than that this phone is fantastic and by far better than any other phone I have owned.