voice to take a pic? - Google Pixel 3a XL Questions & Answers

I have a friend that moved over from a Samsung and misses their voice activation for taking a picture. He just says "Shoot" or something similar. I'm curious if there's any way we can do it on our phones?

gribbler said:
I have a friend that moved over from a Samsung and misses their voice activation for taking a picture. He just says "Shoot" or something similar. I'm curious if there's any way we can do it on our phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just say, Ok Google, take a picture., Or Ok Google, take a selfie.

Yeah I'm aware of that, but he's looking for a single word while in the camera app and not have to ok Google. It's enough of an issue to make him sell the pixel and move back to Samsung

gribbler said:
Yeah I'm aware of that, but he's looking for a single word while in the camera app and not have to ok Google. It's enough of an issue to make him sell the pixel and move back to Samsung
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would make him sell his phone? Wow. I guess everyone's priorities are different but this seems extreme. Maybe he didn't like this phone in the first place.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk

No I find some little things like that can be real annoying. I had a P20 pro for a couple months but missed a lot of features that made me sell it and go back to google. He's a photographer and sometimes he's wearing gloves or has muddy hands and doesn't want to handle the phone much.

If you root your phone, you can install a Magisk module called "Active Edge Mod for Pixel Devices". With this, you can customize the action taken when you squeeze the active edge on the sides of the Pixel.
I personally have it set to the standard function (opening Google Assistant) for nearly everything, but if I have the camera app opened it will take a picture as if I pressed the shutter button. That seems like such a minor thing, but it actually is very handy, especially when wearing gloves, or when you only have one hand available to hold the phone.
I'm going to assume this is too much for your friend, but I just wanted to post that there are some unique features available.

Related

Camera Question

So a while back I was using the HTC One S. I got it for the camera. I prefer samsung, for the most part, and have gone from a vibrant to galaxy s 4g to galaxy s 2. The only reason I did not go to the galaxy s 3 originally was because I needed a better camera. I wound up having to sell my HTC One s for some cash, and now I have the change to get a phone again, I am stuck, once again, between the one s and the s3. Personally, I would like to wait for the note 2, but I don't have the time. I am stuck with a basic flip phone right now, and while i don't mind using a flip phone, I have to have something for tethering with my tablet while I am work. So that is the rock and a hard place. Any phone I buy is going to be a few hundred bucks anyways, so I would rather go another hundred or two more and get the one s or s3.
Personally, the One S was great with the Axiom ROM. The battery lasted forever, and it had great extra features.
However, the s3 is still my preferred choice because of the bigger screen, the 720p, svoice, voice actions, and many other things. Not to mention the extra compatibility with my note 10.1 tablet.
My only real issue here, admidst all my rambling, is the camera. I know the HTC One S has an f/2.0 aperture, and the s3 has a f/2..6 aperture which makes a difference (although some people report the aperture as f/2.4)...my concern is how people actually like the photos and video. Ive noticed some washed out looks compared to the one s. I know the f/2.6 will give better depth vs the f/2.0, but thats about the end of the benefits.
My main concern is quality of photos/videos, and quickness of the picture. I have two young boys and I want to be able to snap a photo that is clear and of good quality, at a moments notice without having to worry about missing it or getting a blurry shot.
Any comments or thoughts on this would be helpful.
Ohai search button
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1809547
If the cam is your main concern, I think you will be happy either way. There may be a difference side by side but if you're not ccomparing the two like that you probably wouldn't care either way.
While some may have had issues with the camera I would say the vast majority have not.
There are a number of things that could cause pic problems here. Lots of people are running jb leaked firmware. Lots are using the cam from the note2. I seem to remember a few had problems fixed by updating the cam firmware...
But like I said, I doubt you'd be dissatisfied with the gs3. I dont know how theyd compare side by side but unless you're doing just that I dont think you'd notice or care.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
psykhotic said:
Ohai search button
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1809547
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive seen plenty of camera shot examples, but pretty much all (most, but not all) are from still photos are "posed" shots. It takes good pictures, and I think my only issue is its a little washed out vs the One S. However, I can deal with that. My biggest question is lag from button press to picture taken.
So, how much lag is there in taking a picture? If I wanted to take a picture right when somewhat hit the water diving off a diving board, or of my cat jumping from fence pole to fence pole and wanted a shot right in the middle between two poles, etc....how easy would it be? With the One S I could get pretty much zero lag. if I hit the capture button its taken the picture right then, and I can click the capture button over and over and over in rapid succession (not burst mode) and take multiple pictures. I really want the GS3 over the One S for other reasons, but need the camera to be on the same level.
So how quick does it take a picture when the button is pressed?...and how quickly does it recover to take another picture?
I find it to be quite quick on all accounts. Hasn't caused me any issues as of yet. Also, there is a feature where you can just record video and then capture the pics you want from the video.
Have you seen the commercial with the hikers and the goat?
The only complaint I have about the camera is the lack of hardware buttons for it. But I can deal with that.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
I can get the no texting and driving sign while typing this.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
DocHoliday77 said:
I find it to be quite quick on all accounts. Hasn't caused me any issues as of yet. Also, there is a feature where you can just record video and then capture the pics you want from the video.
Have you seen the commercial with the hikers and the goat?
The only complaint I have about the camera is the lack of hardware buttons for it. But I can deal with that.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the feedback.
Its rather important to be quick on the camera trigger. Even with the zero lag of the One S I did miss some things. I have my two boys and they can be making a face or doing a little dance to their favorite tv show and I want to capture it, but the moment may just last a few seconds, and I need a quick trigger finger. So I dont want to have to focus and then 'click'. I want to hit and click at the same time.
Right now, however, I am stuck my an LG Mytouch Q and definitely not the best in the camera department. lol
Yeah I hear you on wanting to be able to get that quick shot. Its the msin reason I miss the csm button. But theres also a motion setting where you tap and hold on lock screen whil rotating to landscape takes you straight to the camera. I just added to my lockscreen shortcuts. Auto focus is pretty good too btw.
Dont forget you can always get the S3 and try it for 14 days. If it doesn't meet your needs return it and get the One S.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
DocHoliday77 said:
Yeah I hear you on wanting to be able to get that quick shot. Its the msin reason I miss the csm button. But theres also a motion setting where you tap and hold on lock screen whil rotating to landscape takes you straight to the camera. I just added to my lockscreen shortcuts. Auto focus is pretty good too btw.
Dont forget you can always get the S3 and try it for 14 days. If it doesn't meet your needs return it and get the One S.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats where my problem lies. I work for T-Mobile. Mind you everything I do here is personal and not affiliated with my tmobile employment, but I work for them, and I know just about everything there is to know about the phones, but because I have not had a chance to really test shutter lag on the phone, I dont know if it meets my needs. I am VERY picky. I don't work in a retail store or anything so I dont deal with the phones in my hand daily.
...and because I work for the company, I do not get a buyers remorse period on my purchases. Once I order it, give or take a couple of exceptions to the rule, its mine. So while I can tell you about every wifi share options, every motion and voice control, and so on, I dont know for sure if the camera lag will be a problem in practical use because I do not have the phone physically with me. ..and when I did have the phone physically with me...I never tested it cause I either had my one s or was not in the mindset of having to buy a phone lol. I will probably get a chance to check out a demo model tomorrow when I head in to work, but I was trying to get it ordered over the weekend, so it would start processing my order. Our order system is different and the sooner the better.
Galaxy S3
phoenixbennu said:
So a while back I was using the HTC One S. I got it for the camera. I prefer samsung, for the most part, and have gone from a vibrant to galaxy s 4g to galaxy s 2. The only reason I did not go to the galaxy s 3 originally was because I needed a better camera. I wound up having to sell my HTC One s for some cash, and now I have the change to get a phone again, I am stuck, once again, between the one s and the s3. Personally, I would like to wait for the note 2, but I don't have the time. I am stuck with a basic flip phone right now, and while i don't mind using a flip phone, I have to have something for tethering with my tablet while I am work. So that is the rock and a hard place. Any phone I buy is going to be a few hundred bucks anyways, so I would rather go another hundred or two more and get the one s or s3.
Personally, the One S was great with the Axiom ROM. The battery lasted forever, and it had great extra features.
However, the s3 is still my preferred choice because of the bigger screen, the 720p, svoice, voice actions, and many other things. Not to mention the extra compatibility with my note 10.1 tablet.
My only real issue here, admidst all my rambling, is the camera. I know the HTC One S has an f/2.0 aperture, and the s3 has a f/2..6 aperture which makes a difference (although some people report the aperture as f/2.4)...my concern is how people actually like the photos and video. Ive noticed some washed out looks compared to the one s. I know the f/2.6 will give better depth vs the f/2.0, but thats about the end of the benefits.
My main concern is quality of photos/videos, and quickness of the picture. I have two young boys and I want to be able to snap a photo that is clear and of good quality, at a moments notice without having to worry about missing it or getting a blurry shot.
Any comments or thoughts on this would be helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IMHO the Galaxy S3 takes the best pics I have ever taken with a phone. See for yourself. I am attaching two pics of a sunset/day-time at Vanderbilt Beach, Florida. Rarely have I been disappointed with the quality of the pics. At least for me, they almost always turn out perfect. I highly recommend the Galaxy S3. Even in low-light situations, you still get a great pic.
Well 1) it's a camera phone and 2) ymmv. There isn't more "lag" than a cheap point and shoot but this isn't a dslr, it's a phone. It's going to come down to to you and each unique situation.

True 'replacement' phone for the Note 7...

And the winner is…
The Note 9. I mean Mate 9.
http://playfuldroid.com/alleged-huawei-mate-9-and-mate-9-pro-renders-had-been-leaked/
People should have waited, instead of "rushing in". Patience is a virtue.
This phone looks identical to the Note 7.
Makes you wonder, doesn't it?
I am raving about this phone specifically because we all know the Note 7 was "the most beautiful phone that ever was". Well now, we have a possible identical "replica", yet some of the specs simply blow away all competition bar none! Insane price tag of $1300 to prove it.
(The website I linked was used to give us an impression of what to expect. By all means check out some of the more established sites, such as gsmarena for more substantial information)
To be revealed on November 3rd.
I want it! Who's with me?
Who are we? Huawei.
(World's 3rd largest Cellphone Manufacturer. Who knew, right?)
It is nice but it is not blue . Plus I have read the premium version will only be available in China.
notefreak said:
It is nice but it is not blue . Plus I have read the premium version will only be available in China.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's wrong with Lavender?
Somewhere I read (cliche statement right there) there will be a multitude of colors to choose.
China only? Then why give us the 1300 figure in Dollars? Please why China? I am moving to China. You coming MateFreak?
LO. Sure if they waterproof it for me. After 1300 USD I will have to swim back home
Downright stupid not to make the pro version available in Europe, I'll rather wait for the note 8 then
Dudes. Please don't do the silly thing all tech websites do, like "hey! best note 7 replacements" and then show phones WITHOUT STYLUS... Each time I am forced to take the bait and realize that's its yet another big screen phone with the exact same specs as any other flagship phone. A phone without a Stylus can't replace the Note 7.
Yet no one says "no stylus no dice" and rushes out to get the V20, Pixel, iPhone, etc, etc.
This is a Note 7esque Phone, and we are on the Note 7 forum. I mean sure, go for the Note Pro 12.2, even a S7 Edge, but to think otherwise?
nomailx said:
Dudes. Please don't do the silly thing all tech websites do, like "hey! best note 7 replacements" and then show phones WITHOUT STYLUS... Each time I am forced to take the bait and realize that's its yet another big screen phone with the exact same specs as any other flagship phone. A phone without a Stylus can't replace the Note 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally understand this. To be honest, I am still trying to figure out why so many people got the Note7, but admit the stylus wasn't important or a thing they used. Why didn't they upgrade to the S7 Edge six months earlier. To me, the point of the Note series was the stylus once the other phones got big screens, too. There is no other phone that makes taking hours of notes easy to do and easy to reference.
I am stuck in a horrible limbo without a true replacement phone. I keep hoping someone is going to post a "I found a replacement" link that has a stylus.
Capzlawk said:
To be honest, I am still trying to figure out why so many people got the Note7, but admit the stylus wasn't important or a thing they used.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Premium build, Better looking form factor, larger screen, latest tech. etc. I use my stylus, just not as much as people think you're supposed to, that's like saying "why do you have a waterproof phone if you don't go swimming?" waterproof or not, my phone will never see water. If the S8 was an exact clone of the Note 7 minus the s-pen, I'm all over it. But if it comes out looking like another rounded, pebble-shaped, bubbly piece of glass like the S7 I'll once again pass and wait for the Note 8 that i hope has the sharper corners and better overall aesthetics . I work professionally as a graphic designer and freelance digital illustrator, and STILL maybe only pull the stylus out once a week to jot down a grocery list or idea, unless you're someones personal assistant or something like that, I really don't see the s-pen never leaving your hand.
The Note isn't and hasn't ever been just about the s-pen.
Capzlawk said:
I totally understand this. To be honest, I am still trying to figure out why so many people got the Note7, but admit the stylus wasn't important or a thing they used. Why didn't they upgrade to the S7 Edge six months earlier. To me, the point of the Note series was the stylus once the other phones got big screens, too. There is no other phone that makes taking hours of notes easy to do and easy to reference.
I am stuck in a horrible limbo without a true replacement phone. I keep hoping someone is going to post a "I found a replacement" link that has a stylus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The s7 edge has "sharper" edges on the screen the Note 7 are more subtle making it easier to use. The always on display on the Note 7 is MUCH more useful. These are the two biggest and most important differences to me between the Note 7 and s7 edge. I don't use the S-pen all that often but there are some situations where it's unbelievably useful.
Novarider said:
The s7 edge has "sharper" edges on the screen the Note 7 are more subtle making it easier to use. The always on display on the Note 7 is MUCH more useful. These are the two biggest and most important differences to me between the Note 7 and s7 edge. I don't use the S-pen all that often but there are some situations where it's unbelievably useful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
S7E got the N7's always on display with latest update.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
rcobourn said:
S7E got the N7's always on display with latest update.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought so as well but My Wife's didn't. Third party apps still do not show up on her AOD. I have cleared cache and it did not help.
Novarider said:
I thought so as well but My Wife's didn't. Third party apps still do not show up on her AOD. I have cleared cache and it did not help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hadn't noticed, but they don't show up on mine either. Maybe with the next update.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
rcobourn said:
I hadn't noticed, but they don't show up on mine either. Maybe with the next update.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My wife's AOD in her s7 edge is practically useless. Basically just a clock.
My hope is that the note 5 gets the AOD when it gets the Nougat update. I just purchased a note 5 to use till the next note comes out.
I'm considering Pixel XL with Project FI. It's a downgrade for sure, but It's a fastest android phone and from Google. And Project FI is only available on Google phones - basically, unlimited text/talk plus some data, best coverage in the US and possibly the world for only $25 a month.
What do you think?
rcobourn said:
S7E got the N7's always on display with latest update.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its no way as useful even with the update.
It won't show you calendar appointments and tasks like it does on Note 7. Other SPen related features like pinning hand written notes on the AOD screen are amazing useful and convenient. These could never come to the S7 Edge.

Anyone Regret Buying This?

As the title asks, anyone regret buying this phone? I will be ordering mine shortly, but I have seen a few issues, like aluminium coating peeling off, purple tint in camera photos, back glass part being awfully scratch prone etc., so got me thinking a bit. Who are already using it, does it feel like worth the most expensive Android phone on the market?
I've been nothing but pleased with it. I always keep my phones in a case. I was really happy with my Nexus 6P and this phone has been the next logical step from that. Haven't once been disappointed by it.
No regrets so far after 2 weeks. Normally I've been the type that goes back to iOS after I play with Android quite a bit, but in my opinion, Google has achieved the stability of iOS on this phone. The only thing I miss is iMessage but it's really not that huge of a deal.
I just don't like the size. When i go back and hold my Axon 7, it feels tiny in comparison!
Thanks guys. So 100% positive feedback then. The main two reasons I am considering this are the software experience and the camera, while former is the main thing. Just having a mental cancer using these Samsung phones for long term. I have been told Pixel has THE BEST Android experience so far, I just wanted to know whether that's true or not.
Thanks once again for commenting guys.
ithehappy said:
Thanks guys. So 100% positive feedback then. The main two reasons I am considering this are the software experience and the camera, while former is the main thing. Just having a mental cancer using these Samsung phones for long term. I have been told Pixel has THE BEST Android experience so far, I just wanted to know whether that's true or not.
Thanks once again for commenting guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had a DE Note 4 since they were released and loved that phone. I recently got the Pixel XL (128gb) and actually like it better than my Note which says a lot.
I do but i think my problems are more N related. Also the assistant can't do things Google Now can which makes no sense.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
jaredstein21 said:
I do but i think my problems are more N related. Also the assistant can't do things Google Now can which makes no sense.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious as to what things work with Google Now but not with the Assistant.
Assistant can't read you your text messages is the biggest one for me. Can't start stopwatch or do lists in Keep. Just does one list. There might be more but that's what I can think of right now.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
jaredstein21 said:
I do but i think my problems are more N related. Also the assistant can't do things Google Now can which makes no sense.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. I have no problem with the dimensions and while many knocked it, I'm finding myself indifferent to the design language of the Pixel.
The phone runs like a dream. Unfortunately in my experience, Assistant does not. It really should be able to do some of the more basic things but to hold me over I've been using IFTT to somewhat offset it's limited functionality.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Also the Bluetooth problem with GM products drives me nuts. Google takes too long to fix things. I believe Apple would have fixed that already. If it's not fixed on this next update I'm going to try really hard to return it. Doubt they will since I'm past my 15 days. I almost returned it everyday. The phone is good just too many bugs. Some were there in the previews and were never fixed. Fix those couple things and this is the best phone IMO.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
ithehappy said:
Thanks guys. So 100% positive feedback then. The main two reasons I am considering this are the software experience and the camera, while former is the main thing. Just having a mental cancer using these Samsung phones for long term. I have been told Pixel has THE BEST Android experience so far, I just wanted to know whether that's true or not.
Thanks once again for commenting guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was at first a little put off by the camera. I had a note 7 for like a week before the Pixel (The nexus 6p was my daily driver until I got the note 7). I really liked the Note 7 as well. Specifically the camera. And the Pixel XL camera seemed worse at first... Then I opened the pictures on my desktop. The Pixel XL was noticeably better. The screen on the Note 7 just made them seem better due to the super high color saturation, The pixel screen is much more true and neutral. Didn't mention it earlier.
It is in fact the best Google software experience I've had to date.
A solid no. I have had is a week now and I like more each day.
ithehappy said:
As the title asks, anyone regret buying this phone? I will be ordering mine shortly, but I have seen a few issues, like aluminium coating peeling off, purple tint in camera photos, back glass part being awfully scratch prone etc., so got me thinking a bit. Who are already using it, does it feel like worth the most expensive Android phone on the market?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah about that screen, well I really wish that they calibrated in even more naturally. In the sRGB mode even the phones like OnePlus 3 defeats it, in grayscale accuracy I mean, that's the thing I don't like, its still a device which can't defeat other flagship phones like S7, iPhone 7 etc., it should have been calibrated better. I HATE over saturation of any sorts.
PS: Decision is made, buying it, just now need to decide which one. God these bezels!
Thanks a lot for all your inputs guys, appreciate it.
I'm torn. Should I get rid of my HTC 10 and a get a pixel XL?
Reuben_skelz92 said:
I'm torn. Should I get rid of my HTC 10 and a get a pixel XL?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't.. S820 is now fully unlocked in nougat and the Phone is a beast
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
Xperia U Lover said:
I wouldn't.. S820 is now fully unlocked in nougat and the Phone is a beast
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True..but bigger screen and more up to date software on the XL
not at all..i do like my pixel jr a bit more than my xl
Reuben_skelz92 said:
True..but bigger screen and more up to date software on the XL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bugger screen yes, but not big enough considering bezels.. My opinion is that the htc 10 is more fun phone and if u r a flash junky u will be happier with the 10 cus there isnt really much u can play with on the pixel cus of its pure stock android.. Dunno what u want in a phone but the htc in terms of software will be like month or max two behind the pixel
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
So I've had my XL for nearly a month, and the jury is still out. I have a Mazda, and pretty much every other time I get in the car the phone will not stay connected to the car (and the car never recognizes the phone even when the phone says it is connected). There is a solution when this happens: turn off Bluetooth, turn it back on and then manually connect to the car. Then everything is fine.
Then there is the stutter-ringing. When someone NOT on my contact list calls for the first time, the phone rings for nearly a second, then acts like a hangup, then rings again, etc. until T-Mobile times out and sends the caller to voicemail. The call log shows 4-5 unanswered calls from that caller, and when it is stuttering, it is impossible to get the timing right and answer the call. Once the caller is in the call log, though, it works fine literally every time after that. Delete the call from the log, and it starts with that caller again. Does not do this with any contact or anyone in the call log.
Finally there is the weird times when the phone decides to lock even though it is connected to a trusted device, or is in a trusted location. Like 1-3 mornings per week when the phone decides sometime over night to make me re-enter my PIN even though it is connected to my watch AND at home, both with trust relationships. The rest of the week? No problem, no lock, business as usual.
The phone is great, it is fast and mostly works as expected. But there are just enough quirks to be seriously annoying. Plus this is supposed to be a consumer phone - I was more willing to be out there on the edge with my Nexus devices, but if I gave this to my Mom I would be on endless support calls. And I paid a premium price so the expectation is much higher.

What features are you going to miss, love or are concerned with when buying the Fold?

Without ever seeing the Fold in person and actually handling it I going to miss a few features based on the Specs I've read and videos I've watched. Here's my list.
Features I might miss:
1. Larger front facing screen...my caveat here is if the screen was larger it would probably be way too skinny anyway and would look really weird because of the dimensions..
2. Iris Scanner - love this feature on my N9. I know it's already gone on the S10's but it just works so well.
3. Update :MST for Samsung Pay is Probable for all phones. From what I've read, we're only getting NFC at least on AT&T but their website could be wrong since Samsung says it will have MST & AND NFC. That is always the beauty of Samsung Pay over various other Pay technologies. Worked just about everywhere for me.
4. MicroSD slot. OK, I might not use up the 512GB but do love the MicroSSD option which is great to easily move files and backups around., etc.
5. Waterproofing. I'm guessing that the Hinge is the problem and it would be difficult to waterproof the phone because of it.
6. The Fold would have been perfect if it had an S-Pen...with a selfie camera in the S-Pen (LOL!).
Features I'm not happy with (but I'll still live with):
1. That damn notch with a bezel on the big/inside screen. Almost made me bypass the pre-order. If that screen wasn't so large, I definitely would not have bought the phone. I swore I'd never buy a phone with a notch...Oh well.
2. (I know that this should probably be number one) The Crease! It remains to be seen but every video displays the crease in some manner. I find it funny that any article that I've read where Samsung has replied states that the crease is only seen in these **pre-production** models and the crease will not be seen on the final Fold versions. I'm not holding my breath on this one! So many reviewers stated that looking at the screen straight on and/or with a different wallpaper that the crease is barely visible or not visible at all. Now looking at the screen off to the side, the crease can be seen.
3. The batteries. They should have installed greater mAh capacity batteries. C'mon Samsung! You're using 2 separate batteries, give us more juice. You know we'll be on the 7.3" screen constantly!
4. I'm not really mad that they removed the headphone jack. I love options but 99% of the time I'm using BT headphones anyway.
5. The cameras. OK, we have LOTS of them! But for almost $2000.00 these cameras should have been even better than the S10/S10+'s cams. This Fold phone is Super Special and should have had a little bit more (can you say 10 X optical zoom? Might not have fit though).
6. I am still not fond of the Bixby functionality in comparison to Google Assistant. The Bixby routines are probably the best part of Bixby. I'll probably bypass Bixby.
7. Bixby button also being the fingerprint scanner. I'll lose my mind if I continually activate the Bixby button instead of unlocking my phone. That would make me crazy so I would use other software to disable Bixby altogether.
8. Many early articles on the Fold stated that Samsung would give us a free year of Samsung Premium Care+. I'm hoping that when I receive the Fold, I'll be surprised and find documentation to sign up for our free year. I'm probably dreaming...
9. They should have offered more for Trade-ins. Only up to $300.00 where it was $550.00 for the S10 possible trade-in values. (I'm kind of glad though since I may just need to keep my Note 9 around for awhile).
Unknowns:
1. It remains to be seen if the developers will build apps to work with continuity and sizing, etc. If that isn't done then we might own a $2000.00 boring paperweight. I need my Kustom suite of Apps and if they don't work, the Fold will be almost useless to me).
2. Will the Fold just be too long to easily fit in my pocket. I never put any phones in a back pocket but occasionally put in front pocket. Most of the time it's in a zippered pocket in a jacket or purse or backpack or small waist pack. I'm really not too worried..yet! Hahaha!
3. We definitely need a variety of cases. I'm sure they'll come. The interest in the Fold has seemingly surpassed Samsung's expectations. Samsung kept the final Fold design under wraps so long that I think that's one of the reasons the case makers haven't delivered yet (or they thought that the Fold wouldn't have much interest). I need a super protective Clear Case. I want to show off that Martian green with Gold Hinge!! (and I want to look at it too).
Final observations:
With all of the unknowns and possible negatives, don't get me wrong. I want the Fold!
I love being an early adopter and have saved up for this thing. I've been following Samsung over the years and drooling at all of their foldable prototypes.
With Samsung's track record on gorgeous displays, I know I'll love the tablet screen. I think that the small front screen is not a deal breaker because I liken it to my Lock/AOD screen where I glance at information then move on to the larger screen. It will be just one more step to fully open the Fold. Not inconvenient when you know what's coming! A huge, beautiful screen.
The COOL factor for the Fold is priceless! I am so anxious to get it and I know the feeling will continue as others spot the phone and want to check it out.
If the Fold ends up being a fantastic phone for me, then I'll be selling off a few other Tablets I have as well as my N9.
This is going to be Big! Cannot wait to play!
What do you guys think?
I'm just hoping root comes easy and comes quickly. Do you guys think it will be rootable?
A.Priori said:
I'm just hoping root comes easy and comes quickly. Do you guys think it will be rootable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Based off of the limited amount of people that will buy and have this device probably not, but I could be wrong ?
I'll miss the spen even though I don't use it that often, but the main thing I'll miss about that functionality is being able to capture video as an animated gif (I don't know if this exists on the S series as I've only used Notes as far as Samsung's go). I'll probably use my old Wacom dumb capacitive stylus that's been sitting a drawer for a few years for the simple diagrams I draw in meetings using One note. It did the trick when I used to use an iPad all of the time.
The small screen might get irritating if I want to tap out a message as I already find it difficult using something as small as an iPhone SE. Although with keyboard customisation maybe bigger keys can make that easier.
The notch doesn't really bother me. A hole punch would be equally as distracting as a notch to me on a regular phone, but in a screen that big I can't see it being a problem.
I'm definitely changing the scaling and fitting more on that display. Apparently that's how you get many apps to use tablet mode rather than a big phone layout, so I'll be really happy if that's actually true. But I'd set my mind on getting one even before I heard about that so I won't mind if it doesn't work on everything.
I haven't seen whether Dex is available in tablet mode as it is on the larger Samsung tablets. That would be a killer app for me. I know we can use up to 3 apps, but it's not the same as having a few windows layered and tapping between them, especially if you're copying and pasting between a few documents and you want that bigger layout on each to see text placement properly. Maybe someone will manage to extract and develop an apk that doesn't require root for that.
With regards to the above, I used to have a Toshiba PDA that ran Windows Mobile and with it's 800x600 display you could change the screen scaling and achieve a similar effect. It was pretty great.
The thing I'm mainly looking forward to is reducing my travel kit from a phone, tablet, and kindle to just one device. Ok maybe not just one device, I'll have room for my Switch more often now. Airport security love giving my bags an extra search due to all of the gadgets I end up carrying, and hopefully this will mean I just sail through like most other people.
And while it may be an elitist prick move, I want people to notice it. Most friends and colleagues know I'm a tech geek, but nobody notices the tech anymore, as all of the phones and tablets look so similar. They don't realise it's something new or cool and don't ask. Plus, nowadays all it involves is showing off something a bit faster with more storage and a better camera. Nothing has done anything new for years now. This brings back that wow factor when new phones had something brand new and sparks conversation about the future again.
The US devices will have locked bootloaders just like the other US Samsung devices. Unless I've missed it there is no word on international devices yet. If you're like me and root is a necessity you might want to consider waiting until the situation is sorted out.
Edit... One other thing I ran into today in regards to a potential S-pen is that a reviewer was opining the screen was too soft to support writing. That was a stated opinion not a fact from Samsung. So a guess but not an unreasonable one; It isn't hard to imagine the screen not being able to hold up to a pen.
Here’s an important notice for current and future Galaxy Fold owners
https://www.sammobile.com/2019/04/1...portant-notice/amp/?__twitter_impression=true
SAMSUNG GALAXY FOLD ??????
Where did you see the info regarding Samsung pay? Can't find any info about that
nique0201 said:
Where did you see the info regarding Samsung pay? Can't find any info about that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The specs on Samsung.com for the Fold only show NFC for Samsung Pay. They did the same thing on the Galaxy Watches.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
A.Priori said:
I'm just hoping root comes easy and comes quickly. Do you guys think it will be rootable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doubtful on AT&T or T-MO devices... You know it's always that locked bootloader thing in US phones.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
AlanJC said:
I'll miss the spen even though I don't use it that often, but the main thing I'll miss about that functionality is being able to capture video as an animated gif (I don't know if this exists on the S series as I've only used Notes as far as Samsung's go). I'll probably use my old Wacom dumb capacitive stylus that's been sitting a drawer for a few years for the simple diagrams I draw in meetings using One note. It did the trick when I used to use an iPad all of the time.
The small screen might get irritating if I want to tap out a message as I already find it difficult using something as small as an iPhone SE. Although with keyboard customisation maybe bigger keys can make that easier.
The notch doesn't really bother me. A hole punch would be equally as distracting as a notch to me on a regular phone, but in a screen that big I can't see it being a problem.
I'm definitely changing the scaling and fitting more on that display. Apparently that's how you get many apps to use tablet mode rather than a big phone layout, so I'll be really happy if that's actually true. But I'd set my mind on getting one even before I heard about that so I won't mind if it doesn't work on everything.
I haven't seen whether Dex is available in tablet mode
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like we'll still be able to create a gif from a video (you could still have done it on the S9's too). Here's a tutorial for the S10's so I'm sure the Fold will be able to make one too:
https://www.phonearena.com/news/How...or-S10e-without-downloading-any-apps_id115228
Also, it is Dex ready/capable.
Great points you've made in your response! Thx!
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
burrzoo said:
The specs on Samsung.com for the Fold only show NFC for Samsung Pay. They did the same thing on the Galaxy Watches.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has MST, confirmed.
"Credit & debit cards: supports MST and/or NFC"
Source: https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-fold/specs/
Bjray said:
It has MST, confirmed.
"Credit & debit cards: supports MST and/or NFC"
Source: https://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-fold/specs/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This would be great! I'm wondering if it's for Non US Folds. I'm hoping it's for everyone. I wish I had the eSim/nano sim option but not with my carrier (AT&T).
MST not listed in their specs but hopefully it's just incorrect. Thank you for the clarification.
https://www.att.com/buy/phones/samsung-galaxy-fold-512gb-space-silver.html
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
good that was almost a dealbreaker!!! no MST , because NFC hasnt really caught on the way they promised 6 years ago... at least not in places i frequent.
A.Priori said:
I'm just hoping root comes easy and comes quickly. Do you guys think it will be rootable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're kidding, right?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxkAVnl6RVw&list=PLLjWNJiWtHZV-rqGklsgrjoK1ssOJfvrE&index=6
I'm out of here. I'm a rooter and right now I'm now feeling the love with dropping 2k on this device and then killing the warranty. This isn't a complaint per se, it's just not the right tree to be sniffing around for those like me that will most def flog the thing. I do hope all who buy in enjoy the bejesus out of themselves. Good luck gents.
nique0201 said:
good that was almost a dealbreaker!!! no MST , because NFC hasnt really caught on the way they promised 6 years ago... at least not in places i frequent.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was just reading AT&T version of the manual & no mention of MST, only NFC. THAT would be stupid to me & I'd really miss it.
http://downloadcenter.samsung....d_EN_UM_P_9.0_040919_FINAL.pdf
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

My impressions and some concerns

Since having this phone, I have had a few issues.. First of all, the phone itself is of fair design. It's performance and speed is better than my previous phone (LG G7 ThinQ). I like the idea of no bloat whats so ever.. Only apps are what I have actually installed myself, plus the normal google apps. I do however not impressed, with the lack of a stronger screen, as this thing scratches easily.. I did purchase a Spigen case, and now awaiting for my screen protector, for my 2nd Pixel 3a XL.
Now reason why I have another. 1) when a call comes in, the phone would not have a good ring, even with ring volume all the way up. 2) When on a call, and another coming in, the phone would not notify me of incoming calls only a few times.. 3) Sitting at the computer with the phone next to me. My wife was calling while on her lunch break, and she called at least 4 times, but not once did the phone ring on my end.. 4) I was having major cell issues and data issues.. In a major city (Dallas) I could not receive calls or even get data.. All though I'm around Dallas more often than not. Never had this issue with any previous phones, so this was a surprise. 5) The touch screen was very buggy. So with this phone I but in a physical SIM Card, rather than the one that is built into the phone. Not sure if it will help, with call/data, but only time will tell.
When I called Sprint, they said it sounds like I have a lemon, and sent me a brand new one again.. No refurbish one. It even came with it's retail box, and all the stuff it normally come with.. So far this phone is fine (we shall see) over the next few weeks.. If it happens again, Google with get the next phone call.. Now has anyone experienced any of the following issues? What was you solution.
My pixel 3a xl has been for the most part excellent. I am using it on AT&T 4g network. I would say try calling sprint and have them reactivate your sim card or have them put a new one in. I have not had any issues getting calls or having any missed calls. The phone rings loudly and the ear piece sounds clear. I purchased my 3a XL from best buy brand new as well during launch.
vang2k said:
My pixel 3a xl has been for the most part excellent. I am using it on AT&T 4g network. I would say try calling sprint and have them reactivate your sim card or have them put a new one in. I have not had any issues getting calls or having any missed calls. The phone rings loudly and the ear piece sounds clear. I purchased my 3a XL from best buy brand new as well during launch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I got the new one from Sprint, I put in a new sim.. Now to see how it goes.. 24 hrs in, so far so good.
I would also recommend turning off digital well being as it takes a lot of this phones processing power. The phone also will learn your app usage and adjust over time and it will feel a lot smoother after a few weeks.
Best of luck to you. This phone has a solid camera and the way you use a Android phone everything just works well.
vang2k said:
I would also recommend turning off digital well being as it takes a lot of this phones processing power. The phone also will learn your app usage and adjust over time and it will feel a lot smoother after a few weeks.
Best of luck to you. This phone has a solid camera and the way you use a Android phone everything just works well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I heard about that digital well being, and was the first thing I disabled, on the new phone... I personally like the camera, very responsive. I do not care if the pictures are not perfect.. I'm not a photographer, and do not take a lot of pics anyway.. I will say the phone overall is very snappy, compared to previous phones I have used, mainly high end flagship phones..
doubledragon5 said:
I heard about that digital well being, and was the first thing I disabled, on the new phone... I personally like the camera, very responsive. I do not care if the pictures are not perfect.. I'm not a photographer, and do not take a lot of pics anyway.. I will say the phone overall is very snappy, compared to previous phones I have used, mainly high end flagship phones..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DWB (Digital Well-Being) has been problematical period - not just on Pixels (follow the complaints on it). The reason I've been able to duck it on my S7 Snapdragon is because I don't use Google Assistant. I should have my own 3a XL in not quite three days (Best Buy). I'll be using the first two days to settle on initial loadout (P vs. Q); like you, doubledragon, I don't take much in the way of pictures (in fact, the camera had exactly nothing to do with why I chose the 3a XL). I have nothing in the way of genuine, serious, away-from-the-sales-peeps time using P, let alone Q - which is why I'll be using the two day shakedown period to get used to quibbles.. (If anybody tries to say there won't be quibbles using a new OS or phone, they are lying, lying, lying: there are ALWAYS quibbles - with OS, phone, or both. (This will be the first new Android phone I have owned - ever; only the second Nexus OR Pixel I have ever owned (first Android phone I ever owned was my Mom's Galaxy Nexus - which is currently a paperweight); the S7 Snapdragon never ran genuine P - let alone Q; the Pixel 3a XL can run either (I have factory images of both downloaded and ready to install) - therefore, lots of reasons for there to BE quirks and quibbles.
Don't buy into the whole "Digital Wellbeing is making my phone slow" idea. Turning off Digital Wellbeing does not stop the information from being collected at the system level. It simply prevents the app from displaying the information - which doesn't actually affect your phone's performance. If you have it turned off and then turn it on later, it will immediately show data going back 10 days. It doesn't start collecting information from the point where you turned the feature on - it's already collected and saved that information for immediate use by the app.
At the very least make an informed decision based on your own experiences, not the cries from the "pitchfork and torch wielding mob" that is the internet sometimes. In other words, turn it off because you don't like it, or don't use it. But don't turn it off because you heard "it's slowing everyone's phone down" from the internet and certainly don't add to the internet hysteria by posting that you turned it off based on the "mob mentality" if you haven't even bothered to try it yourself.
PS - although my post follows the one from PGHammer, this post is NOT a rebuke of his actions. It sounds like he decided not to even use Google Assistant based on his own experiences.
sic0048 said:
Don't buy into the whole "Digital Wellbeing is making my phone slow" idea. Turning off Digital Wellbeing does not stop the information from being collected at the system level. It simply prevents the app from displaying the information - which doesn't actually affect your phone's performance. If you have it turned off and then turn it on later, it will immediately show data going back 10 days. It doesn't start collecting information from the point where you turned the feature on - it's already collected and saved that information for immediate use by the app.
At the very least make an informed decision based on your own experiences, not the cries from the "pitchfork and torch wielding mob" that is the internet sometimes. In other words, turn it off because you don't like it, or don't use it. But don't turn it off because you heard "it's slowing everyone's phone down" from the internet and certainly don't add to the internet hysteria by posting that you turned it off based on the "mob mentality" if you haven't even bothered to try it yourself.
PS - although my post follows the one from PGHammer, this post is NOT a rebuke of his actions. It sounds like he decided not to even use Google Assistant based on his own experiences.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly - I don't use Google Assistant, and never have. Not on the S7, and not on the Pixel, either.

Categories

Resources